Friday, July 30, 2010

Management of long-haul flights

One of the least relaxing properties in international travel is actually a long flight journey. Meeting for several hours in a tight fit in a steel tube close to other people smell funny is that no idea of refreshments. Although the advantage of long-haul travel to be good, they tend to get off at a truly exotic unique know where you disconnected the possibility that the world in a way to explore not available for generations before.

UsA number of techniques that I had in my time, especially for flights horrible than 12 hours between Los Angeles and Shanghai, to survive for long distance.

Before joining

Stand up, sat down in a difficult situation for the next 6-12 hours.No no matter how badly hurt his feet, still standing. Take a walk. Browse journals. Buy a book. Go to the ladies' room six times. That will last forever just do not sit down.

Create your ownExercises. I can not explain how stretching has extended a long haul flight I needed. In particular, it will definitely your request, calves, feet and back stretch to be sure they are good and relaxed before, all sitting.

Take bottled water for drinking. No matter how much water comes in, is not sufficient. They will decide to purchase large containers with water before the level (watch only thank him aftersecurity controls).

On board

Drink plenty of water. I do not stress this enough. You must drink plenty of water. Aircraft are usually low air and high CO2 emissions. They offer canned, dry air, and are very, very draining. After a lot of water during the flight can help to minimize jet lag and relaxing stay later.

Get up frequently. I do not care if the person next to you uncomfortable, you have to get up and walk on long flights. If you do not,Could result in the acquisition leg blood clot (known as deep vein thrombosis), inflammation and cramps. I usually get up, and once an hour and down the aisles. Often I'll be (if the flight attendants left me) in the kitchen near the food service, or baths. I usually spend my time stretching my legs and the air circulates in slow walking.

Take entertainment. iPod, books, magazines, a newspaper crossword. Yes, everyone. Eight hours over anarrow tube is not really the time to give up the fun factor.

Drinking alcohol. Okay, almost all the jet lag cure site really tell you can never get it done, but I usually do, and why. Alcohol relaxes the nerves and helps relax me in a good sleep. It also helps me avoid feelings of claustrophobia, which is usually not controlled airplanes. Are only a mini-bottle of red wine here - not really take the sauce big time. The last pointIt is a long-distance skating.

Thursday, July 29, 2010

Memories of family holidays: How to help your child to bring home souvenirs Lasting

Every tourist wants to go home with memories of the experience back
will help you experience the journey again and again. Adults rely on cameras to capture
these memories, but children too often the victims of overpriced souvenirs as
poor substitute.

Is there a way to help your son back vacation memories - without
Cancel your travel budget. No matter where you travel free (or low cost)
Souvenirs are on sale for the application. Your childrencan do nothing for the collection
cards place mats. You are in restaurants, resorts and
Attractions, stop your family can potentially everywhere.

Fun with your child find (not just buying) souvenirs, you
him the excitement of research and involve free souvenir as
the jewel is that plague so many tourist attractions.

The first step starts before the holidays in your areaDiscount.
Buy each child an inexpensive photo album pages with glue. These pages
allow small fingers to attack memorabilia in the book, and will survive
some changes have the right to remain or Scrapbooking Resort
Deliveries.

Watch for these souvenirs:

Restaurants: There are special children's table sets in many families
Restaurants, often with pictures or a map of local attractions. Free program for children
The menu, aGame or a puzzle in many restaurants. E
Do not neglect the little sachets of sugar with the restaurant name or picture on it.
This can be a miniature postcards, ready to accept in place of your child
Scrapbook.

Postcards: You can take home a professional photo to attract almost all
the world a little 'more than the cost of a postage stamp. And if you already
Your child heard complaining, "I never receive an e-mail, encourage him to send a
Postcard home! They act as mini-vacation diaries, when you turn
Home, and return to enjoy a vacation as something very
good.

Foreign Money: A sample of foreign currency can be a memory and a good
great way to meet a country. foreign coins are fun to collect and
It may also interest the child in a whole new hobby.

Stamps: In addition, foreign brands also an excellent way for economic and
take homeSouvenirs. Your child will learn about the government, national
Heroes, and often the national bird and flower stamps.

This' n that: Matrix Theme Park tickets, museum cards, brochures and other
Vouchers are fun and colorful additions to your baby's scrapbook.

Nature's Souvenirs: leaf-shaped one (or ones from the trees than
Do you have at home) make great additions your baby's scrapbook. See also
small stones, feathers, smallThe tanks and even a few grains of sand
To help bring home those holiday memories.

Wednesday, July 28, 2010

Five Ways to Find Joy in Traveling

If you have traveled much at all you have seen the articles each year on Road Warriors. These people travel thousands of miles each year and have some great stories to tell. But even if you are only a mini road warrior and maybe only travel 50,000 or 100,000 miles you still have the stories, challenges, and stresses of those travel miles. This is for you (and for the true road warriors - you are welcome to 'listen' too).

Many of you know the theory of E+R=O (Event matches your answer, more the result of how you feel). They also know that there are some real challenges on the road. But with the above theory, as we see five major headache while traveling and still find joy in them.

Starting at the top, you get the first thing that come to the airport. A lot of people find, take the complication of having inside and outside the airport, because their own cars. Then have theadditional high costs for parking in or near the terminal. They also have their bags or a shuttle bus from the airport parking or walking from the terminal and pull the bag from where to park in July You can check all that anger and set aside. What I propose is that the shuttle will pick you up directly in front of your house and give you instead of just outside the doors of the terminal. It 's more convenient parking when you went tothree or more days. And although a few minutes, more directly, such as driving, the unit is worth. For one thing, you do not have the market to go so frustrating. Best of all, you share this with others to ride. If you have not before him, just let me bring some ideas to get your attention now. If you share a ride with many other prizes. Sometimes it's easier with a great conversation. Other times can be a wayshare great business ideas, get you known by more people, and even create a business partnership or a new client. It may be that you just make a new friend. The possibilities are endless and you do not want to pass up on this wonderful opportunity.

Second thing is the lines at the counter or the check-in computers. Nobody likes lines but again if you use the E+R=O theory; you will know you can wait around and get irritated which is one response or you can take it as an opportunity. Think about it, you are all sharing the same experience. Everyone is trying to get their ticket or get their luggage checked in. That creates a connection in itself. So make someone's day and let them go ahead of you just to see their faces light up. Take the time to watch other people. That can be such an experience. How often do you get to see children excited about flying or going on vacation? Where else can you see whole families hugging, holding, and expressing their love for one another? You have to open yourself up to enjoy the encounters life can bring.

Next you have to go through security. My, that can be quite an event. So you have to strip off some of your items like shoes and coats and belts. No big deal that is easy enough to handle. But ponder this; if you have heard the story about the guy that used to dance in his toll booth so he didn't have to 'die' for eight hours every day, then you can start to relate to all those security people and what they have to go through each day. Their job is not too fun because they have to stand there all day watching other people going different and exciting places. And because most people are not practicing the right response, these guys have to listen to all the grumbling going on. So this is your chance to change someone's perspective, liven their day, make someone happy. Put a big smile on your face, look directly at the people and say hello. Speak to them! Wouldn't that make you feel good? And imagine how you could have changed not only the day for those security people but also for others around you!

The next step as you all know is going to your gate. And what happens there is more waiting. Again time to put this wait to good use. So often I see people just sitting around right by their gate. Some read newspapers which is not bad in itself; that is using the time wisely. Some actually continue to work. While that too can be good I am going to offer a new outlook to this. First off if you are so busy that you are working even while waiting for a plane, I am going to guess you probably don't get much time for exercise. Since you are going to be sitting on a plane and sitting in a car to get to your destination, I am going to suggest that you don't sit now. Get up and walk the terminal. It feels great to be up and around. It makes the time pass faster. And it may even give you a little of that exercise that we all need anyway.

Now comes the actual airplane ride. How boring can that be? Again that is your choice. What a plethora of opportunities we have here. The choices are endless but what I am going to suggest is a change of pace. Make each flight a new occasion to do something different. If you normally work, put that aside and play a game like Sudoku or a crossword puzzle. If you normally read, put the book down and have a pleasant conversation with the person next to you. If you don't ever slow down to watch a movie, bring a DVD player or watch one on your computer. If you have ever thought about writing an article for a magazine, do it now while you have uninterrupted time. If it has been a long time since you have written a love letter to your significant other, do so now. Anything you can do to enhance the flight or make it different than every other flight before is a good thing.

Does this sound like a lot positive thinking? You betcha! But if you aren't doing these things now and you find that your trips are boring, frustrating, or ho hum, don't you think it is time for a change? Start now and just like everything else you learn it may take some practice. You have to fly anyway. So now you can decide how your response to each part of that traveling is going to be. Aren't you ready to find the joy again in traveling? I hope so. See you in the air!!

Tuesday, July 27, 2010

Family Vacation Memories: How to Help Your Child Bring Home Lasting Souvenirs

Every tourist wants to go home with memories of the experience back
will help you experience the journey again and again. Adults rely on cameras to capture
these memories, but children too often victims of overpriced souvenirs as
poor substitute.

Is there a way to help your son back vacation memories - without
Cancel your travel budget. No matter where you travel free (or low cost)
Souvenirs are on sale for the application. Your childrencan collect everything ranging
from postcards to placemats. They are available in restaurants, resorts, and
attractions, potentially every place your family might stop.

By showing your child the fun of searching for (not just buying) souvenirs, you
can involve him in the excitement of seeking out free souvenirs and keep him
away from the trinket stands which plague so many tourist attractions.

Your first step begins before the vacation at your neighborhood discount store.
Buy each child an inexpensive photo album with adhesive pages. These pages
allow small fingers to stick memorabilia in the book, and they will survive
several rearrangements before you have to resort to glue or scrapbooking
supplies.

Keep an eye out for these souvenirs:

Restaurants : You'll find special children's placemats in many family
restaurants, often with pictures or a map of local attractions. Free children's
menus, containing a game or a puzzle, are available in many restaurants. And
don't overlook tiny sugar packets with the restaurant's name or picture on it.
These can act as miniature postcards, ready to assume a place in your child's
scrapbook.

Postcards : You can carry home a professional photo of almost any attraction in
the world for a little more than the cost of a postage stamp. And if you've
heard your child complain "I never get any mail," encourage him to send a
Postcard home! They act as mini-vacation diaries, when you turn
Home, and return to enjoy a vacation as something very
good.

Foreign Money: A sample of foreign currency can be a memory and a good
great way to meet a country. foreign coins are fun to collect and
It may also interest the child in a whole new hobby.

Stamps: In addition, foreign brands also an excellent and economical
take homesouvenirs. Your child will learn about the government, national
heroes, and often the national bird and flower through stamps.

This 'n That: Theme park ticket stubs, museum maps, brochures, and other
freebies make fun and colorful additions to your child's scrapbook.

Nature's Souvenirs: Uniquely shaped leaves (or ones from trees unlike those
you have at home) make great additions to your child's scrapbook. Also look
for small pebbles, bird feathers, small shells, and even a few grains of sand to
help bring home those vacation memories.

Monday, July 26, 2010

Travel to Italy Land of Beauty and History

Italy, the land of beauty, fashion, history and culture has been regarded as one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world. For those who like to travel and visit romantic places, Italy is the best place to stop at, not only it is romantic but it has extremely interesting buildings, monuments and architectural achievements which are part of history, so those who love to scrutinize the meaning behind art will find this place to be a fantastic historical and artistic puzzle.

When traveling to this fantastic country it is important to make sure you plan the tours you want to take and the places you want to visit since some tours and guides will show you around the most tourist places and other tours will take you on exclusive rides throughout a specific region. One thing is sure though, Italy is a big country which has much to offer to the tourist and it can't all be seen in just one trip.

Great musicians born in Italy have written and composed touching musical pieces and those who appreciate this form art dream about taking a gondola ride to the soothing and romantic lyrics of songs such as "O Sole Mio" or "Time to say Goodbye (Con Te Partiro) - Andrea Boccelli & Sarah Brightman", as you may think this is definitively the perfect place to spend an unforgettable honey moon.

Once you are in Italy a couple of cities you definitively must visit are Rome and of course the already mentioned Venice, this doesn't mean that these two places hold all of Italy's attractions, it only means that there are several interesting landmarks which you definitively have to see in person. In Rome you can find the Vatican, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon among several other landmarks and tourists attractions; Venice on the other hand is much appreciated and admired for being the "floating city" because all of it is placed on water. This city is actually sinking so as a tourist it is better to visit this beautiful place while it is still a float!

Whenever you decide to take some time of and get a way for a couple of weeks your plans should definitively include Italy because of the many attractions, culture, architecture and rich heritage which can't be found anywhere else. Italy is best known for its fantastic people and it's definitively a place which most tourists hope to be in at least once in their lifetime.

Sunday, July 25, 2010

Air Travel Tips For Making It Easy And Smooth

Observing fellow passengers on my recent flight, I noticed several mistakes and evidence of poor planning that caused the travelers unnecessary distress. Traveling by airplane and through airports is stressful enough as it is. Why not do everything you can to make it easy on yourself?

Here are seven simple suggestions of what you can do to make your next flight more comfortable and pleasant.

1. Set your intention. Sounds weird, but it works. Arrive at the airport with the mindset that all is going to go smoothly and that you are going to meet helpful people. Pleasing conditions are much more likely to occur if you expect them than if you are expecting hassles.

2. Wear slip-on shoes. Face it, getting through security these days involves partially undressing in front of a lot of strangers who just want you to hurry up and get out of the way. You always have to take off your shoes, so make it easy on yourself by wearing slides.

3. Use a carryon with wheels. Think of it as your airport supply kit. Even if you are checking luggage, you still want to have a small wheeled carryon bag, and here's why: carrying the odds and ends in a bag over your shoulder is tiring and limits your freedom of movement. Instead, a wheeled carryon can act as a sort of cart for any additional items you pick up along the way: food, water, magazines, etc.

4. Bring food. Buy it at the airport if that's easiest, but be sure to bring healthier choices than offered by the snack boxes you can buy on the airplane -- unless you like snacks virtually absent of nutrition and high in fat and carbs.

5. Hydrate. You will feel so much better if you drink plenty of water. The air on the planes is very dry, and since the cabin is a contained, pressurized environment, the air is recycled during the flight. You're breathing in a lot of crud, and water helps your body deal with it.

6. Wear noise-canceling headphones in flight. What more can I say? Wow. They are totally worth the investment if you fly very often at all. Planes are extremely noisy. The powerful engines, the crying babies, the talkative neighbors. All of the grinding and rumbling and whining and blasting become mere background whispers when you're wearing noise canceling headphones.

7. Bring disposable entertainment. During flight and on layovers, there are a multitude of things you can do to pass the time, ranging from working on your laptop to filling in the newspaper crossword puzzle. But you need a pen to do the puzzle, a plug-in to work on the laptop for long, a credit card to sit in a lounge and watch TV... you get the idea. Think ahead about what entertainment you might like to have on hand that is portable and convenient to interrupt during the many phases of your passage from one location to the next. Easiest is a magazine because if you space out and leave it behind, it is readily replaced.

When you have these seven suggestions in place and you keep your overall airport supply kit (the handy wheeled carryon) lightly but thoroughly equipped, your air travel experience becomes more manageable and effortless.

Saturday, July 24, 2010

Things to Do in Yallingup, Western Australia

If you are considering a trip to Yallingup, Western Australia you will want to take the time to check out all the great things to see in this location. This township is located in the Margaret River wine area. This area has many wineries; in fact it is a supplier of ten percent of the wine market.

Your dining experience here will be sure to please with the many fine dining establishments. Beachside cafes also serve the delicious wine from this area of the country. In addition, this area has many attractions. From galleries to breweries to arts and crafts there are many activities for the visitor here.

Meaning 'Place of Love', Yallingup is an aboriginal word. Originally discovered by the Europeans in 1899, the caves were one of the reasons for Yallingup becoming the tourist attraction it is today. The Indian Ocean lashes against the coast of Yallingup, making rock formations that are unique in shape. The popularity of these surf breaks are known the world over. This includes Three Bears, Injidup and Smith's Beach.

This does not mean there is not plenty of area still open for less strenuous activities such as swimming, beachcombing and fishing. If you think you are good at mazes, this is one area you will love. The Yallingup Maze is set among Caves Road beaches and wineries. A timber maze with towers and bridges, this is quite the challenging puzzle.

The Yallingup Maze has an excellent area for picnicking, a puzzle shop, café, gallery and playground. The property chosen for the maze is quite beautiful and there is an area that can be used for picnics and enjoying the scenery. This area is a family vacation spot as well as being very suitable for the adults who want to get away from it all.

Children's activities are another aspect of this area with many games and puzzles at the puzzle shop for them to try. There are many sights at the Leeuwin Naturaliste National Park. The southern right and humpback whales are visible from various points. This area is some of the most rugged country you will ever see. The ocean has furrowed out canals in the sea from the granite rock.

About one of the most beautiful spots in this area is Ellensbrook, a historic homestead that was built in the 1800s. It was the home of one of the first settlers of this area, Alfred Russell and named after his wife.

Further along the road to Ellensbrook are the Meekadarabee Falls. The aboriginal people of the area called it the 'bathing place of the moon'. The cave is believed by the aboriginals to be the place where Mitanne and Nobel, aboriginal lovers live. The legend is that if you listen closely, you can hear the laughter of the two resonating in the waters of the Meekadarabee Falls.

Truly an enjoyable trip for the whole family, this is one of the most beautiful areas of Australia you will visit. The rugged country and the fierceness of the Indian Ocean guided by the winds will be a sight you will never forget. Make sure and take some pictures of this gorgeous area to put in your vacation album.

Friday, July 23, 2010

Is Travel with your Kids a Monumental Family Disaster?

Whatever your mode of travel, there will be special challenges if you take the kids along. The key to sanity is some careful planning - and a calm, unruffled approach.

* Where Should we Stay? *

If you are planning at stay at a bed and breakfast, do some research. Many bed and breakfasts are not suitable for children. However, you may be able to find a 'farmstay' - a bed and breakfast on a farm that allows your kids to interact with the animals. This can be an unequalled family experience - especially for city dwellers.

Staying in a hotel? Do they provide extra cots and/or cribs for children? Do they have a restaurant with a kids' menu? Is there a playroom or playground on the premises? Are there children's activities nearby?

* What Should I Pack? *

Use common sense. Every family is different. Check the following list and pack what is appropriate for your household:

- Small first aid kit

- Liquid anti-nausea medication

- Liquid Tylenol

- Individual-sized tissues

- Moistened hand-wipes in individual packs

- Paper towels

- Photos of the kids and important details regarding medications

- Telephone numbers of doctors (at home and at your destination)

- Copies of passports, birth certificates, custody documentation

- Decks of cards, favorite toys, children's books

- Coloring books, crayons, mechanical pencils, paper

- Crossword puzzle books, erasable pens, highlighters

- Windbreakers, slickers, umbrellas

- Sunglasses, hats, sunscreen

- Plastic bags from grocery store checkout (for storage and cleanup)

* Diaper Disposal *

There are scented disposal bags available - or you might want to pack some small zip-lock bags. Plastic grocery bags or newspaper bags can also be used. The solid matter should be disposed of down the toilet. Next, roll the diaper up with the soiled area facing inwards so that you have a compact bundle with the plastic on the outside. Place the diaper in the zip-lock bag, seal most of the way, then press out as much air as possible while you complete the seal. Discard in a bathroom garbage container or outside garbage bin.

If you are outdoors and there are no outhouse or bathroom facilities nearby, you should carry the entire diaper contents with you, disposing of appropriately when you find a garbage bin or bathroom. DO NOT leave diapers or diaper contents behind. Besides polluting the environment, some animals are attracted to human waste. Protect the environment even more by making sure that you purchase biodegradable diapers (or switch to cloth).

If you must carry soiled diapers along with you for any length of time, you might want to consider packing a few deodorant disks or a baking-soda based scented deodorizer.

* Snacks *

If your children are finicky eaters, chances are you will encounter problems with airline and restaurant meals. Pack a few nutritious snacks. Snacks may include fresh fruit, granola bars, individual-size cereal boxes, cheese and crackers, raisins, unsalted peanuts - or snack-size containers of applesauce, puddings, and fruit cocktail.

* Boredom *

Boredom is always going to be a problem. Even a half-hour trip seems like a long time to a young child. The easiest and most accessible boredom solution is YOU. Use the time to interact with your kids. Ask them questions. Get them to tell you stories if they are old enough. You can keep young children entertained by telling them stories - complete with sound effects of animal noises, whistles, and whatever else you can invent.

Play guessing games like 'I Spy' with older kids, or get them involved in some children's cards games. Although games like 'Go Fish' can be played with a regular deck of cards, there are many games with special, brightly-colored decks made just for children. Do an internet search for 'card games for kids' and you'll find plenty of resources.

* Inactivity *

Sitting still for long periods of time is not a natural activity for children. If you're on a plane, train, or bus, get up and take a walk down the aisle once every hour. When travelling by car, find an appropriate pullout and play frisbee or go for a short walk.

* Relax - Lighten Up - Unwind *

Treat every family trip as an opportunity to connect with your children. Relax, enjoy their unique personalities, and enjoy yourself!

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Stop the Fear of Flying - 4 Tips for Preventing panic attacks

You feel anxious about flying? Know someone who no longer want to fly? Many people have anxiety and suffer from unexplained panic attacks, even on airplanes - suffering from a fear of flying.

I personally enjoy very close to someone with a vacation to far away places used - for a bad experience with a fly may be at home for a panic attack. Now that the person refuses to fly and to look at the world because of this fear of flying.

If you are one ofmany people who are eager to fly, here are five tips that you get to be back under control. These tips are really Captain Tom Bunn, who is a licensed therapist and a pilot. The suggestions given is not necessarily the problem of fear of flying to fix, but you can get through the flight, if you feel anxiety building.

Tip # 1 - The countdown 5-4-3-2-1 method

This method was developed to help you to focus intensively your thoughts in mind to fill inNegative thoughts can not hold them. You can simply start buying repeated elements in a "5-4-3-2-1 every 5 minutes. After a couple of times, it goes for every 15 minutes. Then, every hour. It helps if you can focus on a subject in front of you. It 'important to keep your attention on the subject during training.

If you find that you have a difficult time concentrating on the object - make sure you have to concentrate again. Some people say that the number of cargo to tell othersNumber of silence. You know what always works best for you (and what you can tolerate the people around you!)

Saying "I" and the name of an object in your peripheral vision;
Saying "I" and the name of another object;
Repeat this exercise until you "saw" five different objects.

To illustrate, one might say "I see TV," "I see the light", "I see the couch."

Then go to the next step -


Say: 'feel "and name something you feel;
Say: 'I heard "and the name of a different soundFeel;
Repeat this process until you name five sounds - if you do not feel that you can think of five different tones, and repeat that you have heard before. Make sure that the sounds are "outside" does not sound like "I feel my heart beating."

next step -


Say: 'I feel "and refers to something that you paid (as you touch glasses nose);
Say: 'I feel "and the name of another object, you feel the
Repeat to repeat the five elements that you feel - if you can not find an object fiveObjects.

Once you go through this stage, it should be, "adds the loop." This process is designed to take intense concentration - which is what it takes to keep your mind occupied. After Captain Bunn, if we concentrate on non-threatening, the "fight or flight" hormones in the body burned. How are you relaxed. An important thing to remember is that not relax, they burn out of fight or flight hormones and let your body. Relaxation

Start the next cycle - After the first cycle of five statements, then start the next round, but be sure to make a change. If you have simply repeated the same exercise with five statements, should be done soon, might use the drill without intense concentration and your mind back to "thinking" comes evil. You can keep this concentration with the cycle. The second cycle includes four statements, then dropped the next three discoveriesCycle, then two in the next cycle, then in last cycle, you should name an item.

You can stop when you feel relaxed. Want more relaxed and then just start the process again and again with 5 statements. If you happen to lose count, simply means that you are relaxed enough that you lose count.

Tip # 2 - Make a rubber band

Yes, a rubber band. Wear a rubber band on your wrist. Once you revisit the idea that the Snap issueRubber Band. After a couple of times, the sting of the rubber band as will be further reflections.

Tip # 3 - Keep your iPod or MP3 Player Mobile Phone

Hold occupies the "ear canal" you think. Make an audio player with a lot of music.

Tip # 4 - keep your mind occupied Visually

Panic attacks usually begin as a visual thinking. During the flight, you may be frightened by a noise, but the view is that the soundbecome a problem. To combat this, you should always have someone on your mind with visual elements of your imagination, think of the acquisition.

You can do this by simply putting a couple of magazines that have colorful pictures. You can work on a crossword puzzle or even bring her knitting, too. A DVD player or video game is another way to keep your mind occupied Show. Maybe you want to make sure you have magazines, such as DVD players and video games is currently not allowed duringTakeoffs and landings.

Tuesday, July 20, 2010

Children's Floor Puzzles - Great For Kids Hand-Eye Coordination

Hand-eye coordination begins during infancy through providing infants with objects and colorful toys that will encourage them to reach out and grasp them. By the age of 4-5 months infants can bring their hands into their field of vision, and during toddlerhood further progress in hand-eye coordination comes with the ability to see and grasp objects accurately. They develop the "pincer grasp" during this time.

By three to four years of age children learn to handle eating utensils and button small buttons. By five years of age the child's hand-eye coordination is beginning to advance as he approaches, grasps and releases objects with precision and accuracy.

By six years of age the child's visual orientation changes as they shift their gaze more frequently and follow the progress of objects rather than staring at the object. By the time they reach school age through middle childhood they make great advances in speed, timing and coordination of hand-eye coordination.

Between the ages of three and six it is important to provide as many opportunities for children to develop their hand-eye coordination. But, what to do when it rains, snows or gets dark too early? Because visual feedback is vital for fast and accurate hand movements it is important to allow children to continue to develop their hand-eye coordination.

One great solution is a giant floor puzzle. These puzzles are very colorful, made of large enough pieces to not harm the child if they put them in their mouth, and provide an opportunity to develop hand-eye coordination while learning shapes and patterns.

Over the years I have cared for many children, and I have observed their behavior with floor puzzles. I take the diagram of the completed puzzle and seal it in plastic so they can refer to it without destroying it. Children will spend a lot of time learning the puzzle, and once they do they always want an adult to watch them and spend time with them putting the puzzle together. When they are older they will only put it together 2 or 3 times before losing interest, but they always go back to it when bored indoors.

Safe and educational, giant floor puzzles make a great indoor activity for when the weather keeps them indoors.

Monday, July 19, 2010

Traveling to France With Jigsaw Puzzles

This summer I went to France. What makes that trip special is the fact that I lost my job 6 months ago, and don't have much money to my name. So how is it that an unemployed man with a family can afford to travel to France? With a little imagination, a table, some popcorn, and a colorful jigsaw puzzle - anything's possible.

For under $9, I can travel to countries all over the world as I put together jigsaw puzzles. I've spent hours with family visiting Russia, France, and the United States. This summer, I found my way to France on a number of occasions. My first stop in France was to the famous Villandry castle, which was completed in 1536 during the peak of the Renaissance. This magical castle stands on grounds once inhabited by an old 7th century castle that was razed to make way for the masterpiece built by Le Breton, a French ambassador to Italy. I marveled at the grandiose edifice in all its glory. Even more, I breathed in the fragrance of the nearby gardens - much more beautiful and enjoyable than the castle itself. My favorite stop was at the vegetable garden. The contrasting colors of the leeks, the cabbages, and the carrot tops bounce of the eyelids to provide an eventful dance of color in your minds-eye view. This garden, which dates back to the middle ages came to life in the jagged puzzle pieces that lay in my hands.

Little did the monks that planted the garden hundreds of years ago know that I would be celebrating the colors and beauty of the gardens by exploring the mystery of a jigsaw puzzle. Little by little, as the puzzle pieces came together, the ornamental kitchen garden, with its many crosses and roses planted symmetrically spring to life on the cardboard frame in front of me.

My visit to France was a true adventure, and I was able to enjoy it without ever leaving the comforts of my own home and family. Though I may not have a lot of money, I can travel the world putting together jigsaw puzzles.

Sunday, July 18, 2010

Tuzzles - The Smart Puzzle

Finding toys to fill your waiting room can be a real challenge. As a doctor or business owner, it seems you constantly have to walk the line between fun and educational, interesting and safe. But that doesn't mean it can't be done. Believe it or not you absolutely can create a fun atmosphere in your waiting room that will take any child's mind of his worries. In fact, some of the best toys for waiting rooms have been around for years on end. Puzzles are a great example. We can all remember sitting for hours on the floor, watching as our masterpiece came together piece by piece. And Tuzzle's Puzzles Company is offering some puzzles that are sure to be a hit in your waiting room with parents and children.

Why Kids will love it...

First impressions can be tough but these puzzles are sure to make a lasting one on your little patients. Each puzzle contains bright and colorful imagery with vivid graphics. This is perfect for those younger patients that need a little more effort to focus their attention. You can find all kinds of themes that will intrigue even the toughest youngster. From fairies to space travel, there really is something for everyone.

Why Parents will love it...

Parents are really going to appreciate the quality that each Tuzzle is made with. These puzzles have been manufactured and distributed in Australia for over 20 years and are known for being a higher quality, early childhood puzzle with outstanding quality that is unsurpassed. The images are printed right on the reforested wood and are precisely cut with the latest laser technology.That means no splinters for children or worries for parents. The vivid colors and images inspire children's imaginations while building motor skills and problem solving abilities; what parent won't love that?

Why you're going to love it...

Let's face it, at the end of the day, happy kids and parents means a happy day for you. Adding a few of these Tuzzle Puzzles to your collection can really help your waiting room become an inviting one. Parents will appreciate the high level of quality you have when it comes to toys and kids will enjoy the challenge of finishing one puzzle after another. They'll be so entertained, they won't even have time to worry about their doctor's visit and less stress for them means less stress for you. Waiting rooms don't have to be an unpleasant experience for anyone.

Saturday, July 17, 2010

Sherlock Holmes - the Awakened Game Review

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened successfully brings the exploits of the Master Detective into 3D puzzle adventure gaming. Join Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Watson as they travel the world and solve unimaginable mysteries in this story based on H.P. Lovecraft's Cthulhu world.

The game starts with some people suddenly disappearing under mysterious circumstances in the Master Detective's own backyard. His investigation subsequently leads him and his constant companion Dr. Watson to far-off places like the Louisiana Bayou and from there to other parts of the world trying to uncover the reason for all these disappearances and locate the group that is kidnapping these unfortunate people.

Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened is a truly immersive game. The 3D graphics and playing the game via a first-person perspective makes you feel like you are really there trying to solve these inexplicable mysteries. The 3D world also adds a great new dimension (pun intended) to puzzle gaming. The entire world is interactive, with any little detail being potentially a vital clue in helping Holmes solve the case.

The artwork is top notch as well. You can see the little details in the characters, their faces and their clothing. Every little shadow and texture in every object is finely detailed and looks real in that old Victorian England style.

The mysteries and the story are also nearly perfect. You wouldn't normally expect the highly logical Sherlock Holmes dealing with mystical and supernatural things like Lovecraft's Cthulhu, but it actually works surprisingly well in this game. Kudos to the designers for great storytelling and for being able to perfectly incorporate this style and feel, while still staying true to what you'd expect out of a mystery thriller involving the Detective from Baker St.

The game itself involves a lot of exploration and being alert to the many items scattered across every locale that could potentially be clues to help Holmes solve the case. Small things such as discarded newspapers, finger stains and an innocent passerby could provide that last vital clue to trigger that "Aha!" moment.

And things aren't always what they seem. If something looks fishy, you can whip out your trusty magnifying glass and take a closer look at any suspicious objects. There are also action sequences in the game to break up the slow pace of puzzle-solving. Nothing gets your adrenaline pumping like being chased by mindless Cthulhu worshipers!

In all, Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened is a great puzzle adventure game that captures the essence of both the Sherlock Holmes mythos and Lovecraft's Cthulhu world. It also introduces gamers to a beautifully rendered and detailed 3D world that is seldom found in casual games.

A few warnings though. The game has been designed for a mature audience in mind. There is a fair amount of graphic content and references to the occult in the game. So be warned if you get squeamish seeing a naked dead body lying on an altar with body parts missing... Otherwise, this is a great immersive game that is well worth your time.

Rating: 4.5/5.0

You can read more about Sherlock Holmes: The Awakened at http://www.hidden-puzzles.com/sh-awakened.html

Thursday, July 15, 2010

Flights Of Fancy: An Air Of Gratitude

Feeling cranky about air travel? Get a grip.

Not on the arm of your passenger seat--on reality, history, and the incredible accomplishment of human flight.

We've just celebrated the 100th anniversary of the Wright brothers' historic flight at Kitty Hawk, North Carolina. Although there werecertainly others who were experimenting with flying machines--most notably, Alberto Santos-Dumont, a Brazilian who is widely celebrated in his native country as being the father of aviation--the Wright Brothers are generally regarded as the first to get humans off the ground.

The fascinating thing about the Wright brothers is that they were not the idealistic dreamers you might expect them to be. They were serious, studious, and determined to figure things out. It wasn't that they were obsessed with the dream of soaring high above the ground. They were mechanically-inclined brothers who owned a bicycle shop, and they couldn't forget the brief but exciting flight of a cheap toy airplane they'd received as children. They were intrigued by the engineering challenge.

Let's just say it--they were geeks. Good thing. Like geeks everywhere, they dug in, immersing themselves in their research. By following their hunch and testing the heck out of it, they found the key component that enabled them to create that first flying hunk of wood, fabric and wire capable of carrying a man and--key point here--landing without crashing.

The Wright brothers had the same access to records of tried and failed attempts at flight as all other would-be aviators of the time. They studied birds, they analyzed physics properties, and they built wind tunnels--just like everyone else. Sure, it was their dogged persistence that led them to success, but there was something else that really helped them nail it. They took one piece of the puzzle and worked relentlessly to decipher it.

Instead of focusing on the force needed to lift the contraption, or the engine required to power it, they zeroed in on the concept of control. No sense having a great flight only to crash into the trees after a few moments of jubilation. It was the issue of control that captured their imagination and led to a design featuring both maneuverability and safety.

But as focused as they were on directing the movement of the flying machines, they failed to pay attention to the continued testing and refinement of their ideas. They got distracted by their efforts to control sales, and the research and development division was left flapping in the breeze. While the Wrights got caught up in patent struggles and contracts, adventurers around the world were improving on their original design and savvy businessmen were building airplanes, airports and flight schools. By 1912, Wilbur had died and Orville was losing interest in flying.

Meanwhile, Santos-Dumont continued his passion for being airborne. He is credited with launching the first public flight as well as designing the first hydroplane. He zipped around Europe, flying to fashionable restaurants and parking his plane out front, right next to the tethered horses. Where the Wrights were methodical and diligent, Santos-Dumont was a flashy man about town known for his daring and his sense of style. He cut a dashing figure and inspired everyone from fashion designers to engineers. His friend, Louis Cartier, created the first wristwatch for him after Santos-Dumont expressed a need to keep track of time while busily flying his plane.

Santos-Dumont didn't give a rip about patents. Instead of spending his time and money on protecting his designs, he freely offered his ideas to anyone interested in copying and improving them. He engaged in the shareware idea: take this, go forth and prosper. We've seen this approach in software (Linux) and hybrid-electric cars (Hunter and Amory Lovins), and though it rarely leads to great wealth for the creators, it dramatically facilitates access and ingenuity.

After years of flying high, Santos-Dumont suffered from ill health and committed suicide in 1932. I guess neither engineering talent nor courageous individualism guarantees a happy ending. The Wrights ran out of passion, and Santos-Dumont lost his mojo. In their own ways, they simply burned out.

It's interesting to think about how we need both the plodding perseverance of the Wrights and the free-thinking generosity of Santos-Dumont in every project we undertake. The greatest invention in the world will never capture the excitement of the population without those who are fearless in their attempts to apply it. Those who create the buzz are admittedly standing on the shoulders of those who quietly developed the technology, but we must have both to bring out the eagerness of the early adopters and the cultural change that hinges upon the mainstream acceptance of any new idea.

Bill Gates, that geek extraordinaire, has said: "The Wright brothers created the single greatest cultural force since the invention of writing. The airplane became the first world wide web, bringing people of different languages, ideas and values together."

The next time you're slogging through security, struggling to put your bag in the overhead compartment, or grousing about the leg room, pause a moment to reflect on the enormity of human flight. Recognize it for the magnificent achievement that it is, and pay tribute to those who lived and died for its creation. Appreciate the risk taking required in the last century to get you that window seat.

Please remain seated until the aircraft comes to a complete stop, and whisper words of gratitude to the Wright brothers for their determination in discovering what it takes to make a safe landing.

You may now move freely about the cabin. Please refrain from complaining.

Thank you for flying for us, Wilbur and Orville.

Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Ride a Greyhound Bus - Six Tips

Maybe you do not feel like driving a few hundred miles. Maybe you cannot afford the increasingly expensive plane ticket that does not even come with a meal these days. Maybe you just feel like seeing the beautiful U.S.A. through your window. In that case, taking the Greyhound bus may be for you. Here are some tips to make your first ride go smoothly.

1. Greyhound buses are often delayed and rescheduled. Give yourself at least a few hours, preferably a day of leeway before you make time-sensitive commitments or appointments. If someone is meeting you at your final destination, be sure to keep him or her updated, as your arrival time is often later, and occasionally earlier, than scheduled.

2. Make sure that your luggage is recognizable and that you are taking as few items of luggage as possible. The biggest risk of losing your luggage comes when the bus driver puts luggage on other buses that are headed to your ultimate destination. So having fewer items means that there are fewer things to get lost. Try to take as much carry-on as you can. Consider shipping items ahead to your final destination, instead of bringing them with you.

3. Bring healthy snacks and bottled water. Greyhound stations sometimes offer cafeterias, but sometimes only vending machines. They are usually located in unsavory parts of town, not convenient to restaurants, and leaving the station and potentially missing your bus can be a hassle. Either way, if you come prepared, you will be able to save money compared to the station prices, and control the ingredients if you have special dietary needs, or are just trying to eat healthy.

4. Bring some kind of entertainment. Most Greyhound buses and stations do not offer Wi-Fi (their website does talk about future plans in that direction, however, so be sure to visit it before your trip for the most current information), but there are plenty of ways to keep yourself entertained. Hand-held video games, MP3 players, even a good old-fashioned book or magazine will help stave off boredom. Books of crossword puzzles can be fun for older people, while coloring books can keep the younger crowd occupied.

5. When you get to the station, line up in front of your door as soon as possible. It is okay to leave an item of luggage to mark your spot, just do not leave anything too valuable, and be sure to keep an eye on it. This will give you the best choice of seats when it is time to board. In addition, they sometimes overbook buses, so if they have to split the passengers onto a second bus, if you are in the front of the line, you have a better chance of boarding the bus that you paid for originally.

6. If you are boarding an empty bus, the very last row of seats adjacent to the toilet has three seats, rather than two, meaning you can stretch out or keep your group close together, if you are riding with friends or family. Some people consider that row to be the best seat, but others do not like sitting so close to the toilet. It is up to you. If you do not get that seat, though, try to sit closer to the front so that you do not have to smell the toilet. Also, consider that rowdier people tend to sit toward the back of the bus, where the bus driver cannot keep an eye on them.

Using these six tips, you should be able to sit back and enjoy the ride! Try to keep a sense of humor, and remember that you are saving a lot of money. When you finally get to your destination, you will also have a great story to tell about your ride on the Greyhound Bus.

Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Structure - The Last (Or First) Piece of the Article Marketing Puzzle

Have you ever noticed how boundaries and structures that seem limiting at first actually give us more freedom? We think we don't want to be fenced in, we think we don't want to be controlled, but then we realize that boundaries give us freedom FROM and freedom TO.

For example:


Limiting the number of cups of coffee you drink frees you FROM the harmful effects of too much caffeine
Letting calls to your business line go straight to voicemail on evenings and weekends frees you TO cultivate your personal relationships and practice self-care

When it comes to article writing and article marketing, I know you probably have no shortage of ideas for how to help the members of your target market solve their most pressing problems.

Are you blocked by your thoughts? Start with structure.

But sometimes your ideas get blocked behind your thoughts (like "I'm not a writer," or "No one will want to read what I have to say," or "Who do I think I am, some kind of expert?"). You feel disheartened, discouraged and defeated, and you end up with no words and no article.

Writing structures like editorial schedules, generators and templates free you FROM hurtful self-talk, and FROM clutter and overwhelm. Writing structures free you TO write consistently and strategically, and TO let your creativity flow.

When you're blocked, I suggest you START WITH STRUCTURE:


Begin with a simple affirmation that will shut down your inner critic and unleash your creativity, e.g., I have a message that someone needs to hear and that person is only tuned in to hear it from my unique voice.
Create an editorial schedule with potential ideas for future articles or blog posts. It's much easier to start with an outline (or even a title) than a blank page.
Use a generator like the Top 10 Article Generator. People use formulas for a reason - they work! Or create a template based on an article that got a lot of attention from your audience.

Are you bogged down by your ideas? Finish with structure.

Other times, your ideas flow out so quickly that you feel overwhelmed, scattered and confused. You end up with words everywhere but still no article.

In an earlier blog post called, Writing structures - friend or foe? I told you to walk away from structure when you're bubbling over with ideas, suggesting instead that you capture your ideas as they flow instead of trying to box them into any kind of format.

I'm not contradicting that advice here, but I'm broadening my definition of structures to include idea catchers like journals, mind maps, voice recorders or a session with a ghostwriter.

When you're buzzing with ideas, I suggest you FINISH WITH STRUCTURE:


Begin by giving yourself the time and space to let all of your ideas out with the help of an idea catcher like a journal, mind map or voice recorder.
Use a readability checklist to hone in on the one main point you are trying to make.
Refer to your editorial schedule or content strategy to make sure you're being consistent with the message and brand you are delivering.

So I invite you to free yourself with the boundary of a writing structure. You will be giving a gift to everyone who is waiting to hear your unique message.

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Network Marketing Tools - Are You Missing These Critical Elements in Your Business?

The right network marketing tools can make you or break you. And if you spent any amount of money buying the latest and greatest marketing gimmick or course, then you've probably made this stark realization by now.

You want to succeed in your business...now. Not five to ten years from now, but right now. And this industry is just ripe with gurus who know the thick desperation a lot of entrepreneurs like you face in this industry. And they're ready to milk it for all it's worth.

Sure, you can buy a lot of courses, software, and other marketing ploys to supposedly help you in your business...but at the end of day there has to come a point where you ask yourself, "What network marketing tools do I really need in order to get the job done?

The answer to that question is going to depend on how you plan to build your business. If you're going to build your business offline, then you'll need one set of "tools." If you plan to do Internet network marketing, then you'll need a different set.

So, the first step is deciding where you want to primarily build your business...offline or online. If you're like most savvy network marketers, then you're going to leverage the Internet to the hilt so you can be more effective and efficient.

Despite what a lot of gurus say, it's pretty straight forward what you need in order to build your business online; it's not as complicated and convoluted they make it out to be.

The focus has to be on a long-term strategy. Tactics that work today, but not tomorrow are a complete waste of your time. You want a fool-proof way to not only get more prospects asking you for more information, but you want to have a consistent cash-flow stream working on your behalf 24/7.

Anything less than that and you're reducing the odds you'll have a business this same time next year. In these economic times you definitely want to build your business smarter than the previous decade of network marketers...some of whom are still hanging on by a thread as they continue to struggle in this industry.

Here are the network marketing tools every serious internet network marketer should have in their arsenal:

Targeted lead capture pages - The more targeted leads you have coming to your site, the more money you're going to make
List-control - Either an autoresponder service or software that helps you build your biggest asset...your list.
Products and services that produce retail income - Retail income is easier and faster to produce. The more money you have flowing to you, the more money you can put back into your business to build it.
Internet marketing training - You'll have to know how you're going to put your targeted lead capture page in front of those who are most likely interested in what you have to offer. This is your road map to success.

That's it. The one thing that hangs in the balance of your success is how well you're able to execute everything and how consistent you are. From the targeted lead capture pages to the list-building techniques to the retail products that produce multiple streams of income...they all work together producing real results that contribute to your success as an online network marketer.

Friday, July 9, 2010

Hello From Niagara Falls, Ontario - A City of Lights and Magic

It had been an exciting day already: my helicopter ride with Niagara Helicopter had given me a close-up aerial view over Niagara Falls and my visit to the Niagara Falls Butterfly Conservatory had made for a perfect winter escape to a tropical sanctuary. But more adventure was yet to come.

Appropriately strengthened from my very late lunch at "The Famous", a 24-hour upscale diner at the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort, I was ready for my evening explorations. First on the menu was the Niagara Falls Winter Festival of Lights. Every year from early November to early January, more than 125 animated lighting displays decorate the city. In total more than three million lights illuminate the Niagara Parks Winter Wonderland.

Just driving out of the Niagara Fallsview Casino Resort I was greeted by lighting displays in the form of white and blue snowflakes that were mounted on the light poles. On my left hand side at the end of Murray Street I drove by an entire collection of illuminated characters called the "Enchantment of Disney" displays. I turned right onto the Niagara Parkway and shortly behind the Horseshoe Falls I was greeted by the Canada/US Illuminated Flag.

I continued my drive southwards along the Niagara River and reached an area referred to as Dufferin Islands whose circular roadway featured an extensive collection of illuminated displays called "The Great Canadian Outdoors". Trees were decorated in thousands of colourful lights and a whole menagerie of brightly illuminated Canadian animals, including wolves, bears, fish, squirrels, beavers, deer, moose, buffalo and many more flanked the road. The highlight of this area was Noah's Ark, whose orange, red and green lights were reflecting in the water.

All the lighting displays of the Niagara Falls Festival of Lights can be viewed free of charge, but a group of volunteers was available at the end of the Dufferin Islands displays to accept donations which go to enhance the lights and displays. The Winter Wonderland along the Niagara Parkway includes other lighted displays such as a horse & carriage, an arrangement of grapes and wine, a menorah and a nativity scene. Even a display of Royal Canadian Mounted Police Officers stood on guard.

The Enchantment of Disney displays at the foot of Murray Street include such popular Disney characters as Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs, Beauty and the Beast, The Lion King, the Little Mermaid, Sleeping Beauty, Mickey Mouse and Disney's Pixar Cars. In addition to the lighting displays, the Niagara Falls Festival of Lights also features frequent fireworks which are scheduled to run daily between December 26, 2007 and January 6, 2008.

Together with the colourfully illuminated waterfalls these displays made for a truly enchanted environment. The mighty Niagara Falls themselves are illuminated throughout the entire year, a tradition that has been institutionalized since 1925 when the Niagara Falls Illumination Board was put in charge of illumination. But special lighting displays of the Falls were undertaken much earlier, for example in 1860 when a spectacular light display of the Falls celebrated a visit by the Prince of Wales. In 1901 special lighting was installed as part of the Pan American Exposition that was being held in Buffalo. Six year later, the General Electric Company illuminated the Falls for several weeks with 36 powerful projectors.

In 1925, 24 carbon searchlights were installed that created a total of 1,320,000,000 candlepower. Since then the Falls have been illuminated most nights other than during WWII when power was turned off and during the next few years after the war when there was a power shortage due to a construction boom. Nowadays the Falls are illuminated daily at least until 10 pm at night, and from May to December until midnight.

Now I would have a chance to see the illumination process first-hand through a visit to the "Illumination Tower", which is really a former surge tank for one of the now closed power plants that surround the Niagara River. I parked my vehicle at the Fallsview Casino again, walked by the restaurant and retail complex at Queen Victoria Place and right to the heavy set circular illumination tower that reminded me of an early medieval Norman-style castle tower. I found a little bell in the back of the building and rang a couple of times before the door was answered by 76-year old Pete Gordon, star of the show and a lighting operator for the Niagara Parks Commission for 47 years. Pete had not expected any visitors, but graciously let me into the office area of the Illumination Tower. This special visit had been arranged for me by the Niagara Parks Commission.

Pete used to work as a painter for the Niagara Parks Commission, but together with another colleague he has been operating the lights illuminating the Falls for almost half a century. On work days he is usually there from 5 to 12 pm, creating a colourful light display on the majestic Niagara Falls. Pete mentioned that in the early part of the past century the general public was able to go up on top of the Illumination Tower, but due to insurance issues, the tower is closed today to the general public.

After this brief introduction Pete then took me onto the outside viewing platform that houses 18 very large searchlights, each equipped with coloured screens to produce different lighting effects on the huge waterfalls. From here we had a great view of the entire Niagara River, including the American Falls and the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Pete then took me into the control room and showed me some rather ancient-looking control panels which reminded me of an outdated fuse panel, with each colour identified by white, red, green, blue, and yellow knobs. Pete even let me operate the controls and made me create my very own lighting combination of the Falls. After I had done all my colour mixing on the panel inside Pete took me outside to the viewing platform and we actually checked out the colour mix that I had just created.

When the lights overlap they create additional colour combinations and the final product of my attempts was a mix of light blue, yellow, pink and purple. I admit I was rather tickled pink at the realization that I had just changed the colours on the Canadian Horseshoe Falls. Back inside the building Pete explained that the huge lights creating this symphony of colour were actually searchlights used during WWII in London during the Battle of Britain. He even pulled out one of the light bulbs used in the search lights, which, incidentally, is made by Osram Sylvania, a German company, and carries a price tag of up to $2000. Today the Falls are illuminated with 500 million candle power. I tought it was rather ironic that these historic searchlights which were meant to protect the city of London from German air attacks during WWII nowadays actually relied on German technology for their illumination power.

Pete, having lived in Niagara Falls all his life, is a great fan of his home town and also has indepth knowledge of this city. He told me the story of the Honeymoon Bridge, which collapsed in 1938 due to an ice jam in the gorge which pushed this steel arch road bridge off its foundation. He even showed me some old photographs of this bridge, before and after its collapse and added that he still remembers seeing the collapsed bridge. He must have been just about six years old at the time.

Niagara Fall's colourful history is evidenced by another disastrous event that Pete remembers first-hand. A hydro power station with the name of Schoellkopf Power Plant, built in 1895, had been located on the American side of the Niagara River. On June 7, 1956 water had been seeping through a wall and cracks were widening rapidly, despite the workers' best efforts to stem the flow of water with sandbags. All of a sudden a loud rumble could be heard and the power plant's wall started to collapse. Moments later the entire southern part of the power station fell into the river below. Debris was thrown as far as the Canadian side of the gorge and one power station worker lost his life. This is just one of the many colourful historic events in Niagara Falls that Pete Gordon remembers first-hand.

I was curious what Pete actually does during his seven hour shift. He said he changes the colour combinations manually every two minutes or so. In between he reads or does crossword puzzles and added that he never feels lonely. Occasionally he gets a special visit from Australian, Japanese, Dutch or Chinese tour groups, and he mentioned that particularly the Japanese travel groups really enjoy the experience of the Illumination Tower. I was admiring the dozens of international, mostly Japanese business cards on the wall. Even celebrities such as Danny DeVito, Rita Perlman and Robert Urich have visited the Illumination Tower.

Before I left, Pete extended a special invitation to me: whenever I planned to return to Niagara Falls he would take me on a personal tour of his home town and show me all the special spots. I am definitely planning to take him up on that and thought to myself that the City of Niagara Falls could not wish for a better ambassador than Pete Gordon who has so much pride and affection for his home town.

Inspired from this almost magical experience in the Illumination Tower I was ready for my last adventure of the day: my first live Magic Show. I drove five minutes into the Clifton Hill area and arrived at the Greg Frewin Theatre. As I entered, a large tour group was just enjoying a dinner buffet and started to file into the theatre and take their spots. I had a chance to sit down with Greg Frewin, the Grandmaster of Magic himself, shortly before the show and get to know this master illusionist a little bit.

Despite his impressive international credentials, Greg Frewin is actually a local boy who hails from Stoney Creek, Ontario, just up the street from Niagara Falls. It became clear very early on that he was fascinated by magic when his grandfather showed him some magic tricks. In grade 9 he met a gentleman who had taken a basic magic course and Greg wanted to learn from him, but this man would not take any students. But Greg insisted, and a week later he got a call back and became this magician's only student. His teacher became a full-time magician, and Greg shared the same goal, but his parents did not take his career decision seriously.

So he finished high school and worked as a waiter at a local Keg Restaurant for five years. But he continued with his studies of magic, started to enter competitions and perform at small corporate parties. He finally won a National Competition in the United States and came in first among 600 magicians. After this big breakthrough the industry took notice, and international agents from Europe and Japan started approaching Greg. He ended up working in places like Yokohama, Osaka, Tokyo, Taiwan and China, and toured Europe for several months on a cruise boat. He also worked on full-time assignments in France and Germany.

A successful career in Las Vegas followed with appearances on top stages such as The Flamingo Hilton, Caesar's Palace and the Tropicana. Greg's skills as an illusionist have received many great international awards: he won first place in numerous international magic convention competitions, winning out over hundreds of other talented magicians, and won the first ever Magician of the Year award bestowed by the Canadian Association of Magicians. More than 35 TV specials have featured the skilled magic act of Greg Frewin. For the first two years at his own theatre, all the Friday and Saturday night performances have been sold out and during the summer tickets are always in high demand.

Two years ago Greg's life took a different turn with the creation of the Greg Frewin Theatre in Niagara Falls, Ontario. With a young family he now has a more settled lifestyle although he still works extremely long hours. For example, he personally looks after the animals that participate in his show: five tigers, a mountain lion, a cougar, various pigeons and parrots as well as Chuck the Duck. Even after finishing a magic show at 11 pm Greg still drives his animals home and feeds them. One of his Siberian tigers, Boomer, was rejected by his mother as a baby and Greg adopted him. He has been looking after Boomer since he was eight days old. Greg added that his animal training techniques are based on positive reinforcement and that big cats are just as affectionate as house cats. Yet he still realizes that he is dealing with wild animals and is extremely safety-conscious.

Greg added that in addition to his magic shows, the theatre has recently branched out and added other genres, for example Elvis Tribute Artists. This more diverse programming is particularly important during the winter in order to offer a broader variety of entertainment at the theatre.

After giving me this great introduction to his background and the world of magic, Greg excused himself since he had to get ready for the show. I took my place in the audience and started chatting to the woman sitting next to me, a convention traveller from Australia. Both she and I were extremely excited about attending our first magic show.

The show began shortly after, and Greg Frewin and his two female assistants appeared on the stage. The music was pumping and Greg was in full control of his act. Greg's movement and that of his two assistants were crisply choreographed. Two of his tigers made an appearance, pigeons appeared out of nowhere, and even Chuck the Duck mysteriously popped out of a bucket without any possible explanation. Throughout the act Greg's two assistants Darlene and Jamie-Lynn vanished and reappeared inexplicably right in front of everyone's eyes.

With the help of a willing audience member Greg even turned a $50 bill into a $1 bill, in plain vision of an incredulous audience, and to the heart-felt chagrin of the person who had donated the $50. One of the big acts of the night was a mind-boggling levitation illusion that seemed to defy any sense of logic or science. I was sitting right in the front row and watched Greg's every move like a hawk, but after the whole thing was done I was still completely unable to figure out how Greg had pulled off some of his grand illusions. Judging by the large crowd that gathered around Greg after the show to ask for autographs I realized that he is truly an international talent of the highest caliber, a real celebrity magician.

Images of this action-packed day were flashing through my mind as I drove back to my home for the night. Once I arrived at the Best Western Cairn Croft I stretched out on my king-size bed and mentally savoured the day's experiences once again, yet already looking forward to another exciting day tomorrow that would give me a chance to experience a close-up encounter of the majestic waterfalls.

Thursday, July 8, 2010

Children and their feelings

Children face a lot of problems in identifying their feelings. Because of limited cognitive development, not to be identified. But over time it develops and grows. They express their feelings through play and art in general.

If you really want to know how the child feels, and then to enter their world through fun activities and colorful world. This is the best way to understand a child is feeling. For example, children should never be their feelings by saying that "Idepressed because you go office. "Secondly, they respond by withdrawing shows negative behavior and frequent anger.

All parents want their children to be happy, successful and a good person. The best way to keep your child is blessed with success, increasing your level of emotional intelligence. Here are some important tips to promote the child's emotional intelligence:
Children inherit everything from their unconsciousParents. It would therefore be advisable to be flexible and do not allow you to overcome the tensions. Children observe exactly how it will behave with others. So you need to take proper care of their feelings.
And 'parental responsibility to know the child to deal with disappointment. When shopping with your child, he / she always asks for this or that. But it would be appropriate for parents to say no to her requests. Before you buy anything ask your child, you should verify,If it is necessary or not.
Parents should actively participate in all children, the problem must be involved. Another thing that must be maintained, the attitude is calm and reasonable.
According to the researchers, there will be children who are active in daily work to keep building a successful life and happy.
You must indicate the objectives exciting! To sweeten the family environment to avoid shouting, abuse or breach. You must by all members of your family, and often talk about respectObjectives of your family.
You must treat the child as a wonderful person, and you will soon find him / her perfectly suited and extremely successful.

All parents want their children to be happy, successful and a good person. The best way to keep your child is blessed with success, increasing your level of emotional intelligence.

Wednesday, July 7, 2010

Joke

I remember playing as a child. One of my earliest memories was pretending to drive a car with a flat lid, like the steering wheel. I remember that in the hours cut paper dolls and play with their house with my sister. In the evening we gathered out the day after games, and Red Rover. Gambling is a way for children to know themselves, other people, and the physical world around them. Kindergarten classroom that is not to play a small kitchen? My daughter, who isa nursery school teacher said that in kindergarten children also need time to play. A kitchen is something that everyone has at home, and thus easier to identify. We call the game, but for children it's their job. It 's fascinating to see their hands to discover a baby for the first time in her and she moves and realize that they control them and use them as tools to get what they want.

Children learn by observing, feeling, experience, and use every ounceEnergy and concentration into playing and learning. For them, play and learn are the same one. The game is characterized by self-imposed rules to change. These imaginative games help develop the imagination of a child and it is important for healthy development. I saw one of my sons a set of Matchbox cars one after the other drive for hours in his bed. And 'grew up to become a mechanical engineer. Another of my sons was so fascinated by fire, I had to keep hidden the matchesand not allow candles in my house. Now is a firefighter. A beloved daughter, who loves to play dress has a degree in marketing.

I remember going out to play and not go home until the streetlights came on. Now parents are afraid to let their children outside monitoring. All day workers have time to play their children in the park. Children need time to explore the world, walking in the forest and watch the flowers. You have to skip rocks on the lake and building mud pies.No television will give them the experience that opens real opportunities. Make sure children have time to play.

Checklist for Parents:

Play-Create a safe, clean and comfortable for your children indoors and outdoors.
Watch them play and learn to teach your child best and what are his interests, so that we can help develop them.
-Verify that the opportunity to play with other children to learn social skills and how tointeract with them.
-Give time for free play, where they allow their own entertainment to them to use their imagination and creativity.
Develop their curiosity and fuel a love of learning disabilities.
control the game, so they are safe and pace, if conflict arises, they may need help with the solution.
-Provide opportunities for children to learn and try new things, like to call music, dance, sports, sewing, crafts, reading and outdoor activitiesfew.

Parents learn to praise the effort on innate ability.

Tuesday, July 6, 2010

Review of the game Pharaoh's Secret

It 'just amazing how many secrets are still secrets of Egypt until today, when many documents and reports have already been made about them. Pharaoh's Secret has nothing on his own a game that a fictional story on the secret life of noble Egyptian rulers understood but how it fares as a casual game quite a different matter.

The game is a match-3 rate, which revolves around the adventures of an archeology student named Daniel and his teacher arein their investigations of the great history of Egypt. Admittedly, the story is a bit 'of confusion, as found at first, is ready to decode a strange papyrus archives another professor, then you try to find the lost relics of the Pharaoh Didumes. What is good for the game is to control the story later on his own as clear things a bit 'on your real task, but if you're like me, well, I just go and play in anyHomes.

However, as a match-3 game, Pharaoh's Secret follows the same gameplay as its predecessor, Da Vinci's Secret. The gameplay is unique, but you need a group of three or more balls to remove them from the board. A golf ball is to be moved to any position within the board, as long as a location for which to travel. If a ball is moved and no games were the balls appear on the board additional. Do this a few times, and is composed of the Council willforces you to repeat a level.

There are several objectives for each level, and meets a number of those really difficult as you go along the riddle. The most common objective is the key to the keyhole of clearing all the same colored balls to block the path . Other objectives are the puzzle pieces fitting together to connect through them, and clearing a mesh network by the seal to his castle. Sometimes there are multiple targets on a singleincluding but not much to do, worry because even though the levels are now (for a score of placement at the top), a level can always take as long as you like puzzles in the analysis.

Monday, July 5, 2010

Promotional Gift Companies give discount on bulk purchase

Better use of resources is the ultimate goal of strategic planning. Investments in business gifts are also under this jurisdiction. All the money to buy gifts was completely justified, and it is here that the concept of a better return on investment (ROI) comes into play. For promotional items, decide that the right promotional gift companies have come in handy. Are, we can discount for bulk purchase of promotional items,and turn your business idea a win-win deal.

Now discount on bulk purchase may be of two types. The first is a reduction in the amount of money charged per unit of promotional products. The second possibility is that the rendering of a few more pieces of business assets, without a question that the additional costs or Buck. The benefits arising from the specifications are as follows: -

The traders will buy the promotional items moreProducts available within the same budget. The effort can be saved in the process used to create new varieties of promotional items that have not used before the May gain in advertising their audience needs. Sun offers discounts for bulk purchase opportunities to experience them indirectly, which might be related to the promotion of its brand advantage.

l The provision of discounts on bulk purchases with the company of promotional gift offeredAlso encourage companies in the medium or small financial performance provide promotional items. On the one hand, is enjoying a profitable company, promotional corporate gifts, because spices up their sales in sight, while the other side, put the UPS to small businesses that never goes much thought can jump brand awareness train. Now you can experience their share of luck to make a name for itself among its competitors.

Even the gestureillustrated by advertising company gift creates a relationship between them and their customers. A sense of belonging developed in the client after the promotional activity of the product and remain loyal to them. A long-term relationship would be maintained so that customers receive more such services in future operations.

Among the series of promotional products supplier, an offer which is to buy the best deal on the use of large amounts of the other leading online supplier.The top suppliers offer a wide range of promotional items, namely, key chains & key rings, pens, clothes and hats, paper products, golf gifts, stress toys, mugs and coasters, mouse pads, puzzles and games, travel accessories, torches, umbrellas, calculators, computer accessories, recycled products, desktop gifts, watches & jewelry, wallets, bags, calendars and planners, fridge magnets, confectionery and cellular phone.

Sunday, July 4, 2010

Portable Sewing Machine - The benefits of owning a

Sewing machines have since about 1790. Were invented during the first industrial revolution in order to increase productivity in the clothing business. It also helped reduce the amount of time to sew by hand sewers. This machine has gone through many changes after the first draft, like all technological tools, and time has come to seek, as it does today. Finally, the portable sewing machine was invented.

Although the initial construction of the device wasintended for mass production of garments company, has finally come to something that many families in their homes or would be. The people who owned them, were used to make their own clothes or patching it. Schneider did not like too much, because it took away from their business, but also for families, has certainly helped the family budget. Today, most consumers do not need to use them, but even more for the pleasure of the art of sewing. Many artistic and enjoyExclusive design their own clothes and look sewing as a hobby.

With industrialization, vehicles, boats and planes came. These different modes of transport travel between cities, states and countries increasingly possible, which led to a revolution in the lifestyles of the trip. Traveling is very common, especially for holidays. With a passion for sewing as now, as were the sewers should bring their projects with them? These machineswere inaccessible to machinery traveling on their size, sew, which has caused unbearable. Not only are more manageable, thanks to occupy weight and size but also less space for the houses that do not want lots of space for a car.

Owning one of these sewing machines is like a crossword book or to enjoy leisure time. It 's something that saves money, space, headache and makes people happy, why not letbehind something they do very much. Portable sewing machines are a great investment for people who love sewing and want to spend less money on clothes and a sewing machine. They are cheaper and more accessible. It 's something that every family should have, or a person.

Saturday, July 3, 2010

About Computer Forensics Careers

The field of computer forensics is growing exponentially, and every new day of working hours in this fascinating and challenging new forensics field. The fact is that computers are everywhere in our society and they continue to be complicated. This means that a job in computer forensics will be anything but boring and dead.

Computer forensics forensic was also one of the most lucrative and maintain good prospects for a trip as well. IfThey love computers and computer puzzles to solve and only work in computer forensics can be a problem for the job you're looking for.

The search for a school that teaches computer forensics should not be a problem because more and more schools to teach the addition of lawyers, are on their resume. However, we want to make sure that the school for your studies can help to serve an internship somewhere as well.

How many peopleNotice that the computer-related careers have chosen so that they end up having to do monotonous work behind a desk were not very interesting real satisfaction down. However, this is not a problem that you are in a career in computer forensics, which brings new and exciting challenges with each new face.

Criminals who use computers to commit their crimes are becoming more sophisticated and are constantly striving to stay ahead of technology and the lawthat is available. This means that not only involved in solving crimes in progress with the computer, but you can put these in the development of new methods and technologies for others in the same field in their work.

have also chosen the more people who use computer forensics as a career and eventually find advice on profit for private companies who need to demonstrate how we are not victims.

Friday, July 2, 2010

5 tips on running a Home Based Business Online

The idea of a Home Based Business is increasingly attractive option for families because of the amount of time parents spend with their children. On top of this consideration has received many new methods of payment systems, you can run your business more home from literally all over the world.

An online business, as the name implies, is a business running on a Web site and revenue generated from sales to offer some kind of product or service.The following tips are simple, but consider the information important, if your business or to evaluate the way you belong to yourself.

Before Making space.

When I started my first online business I have the massive failure of the work out of my bedroom. I can not tell you how often I found I was lying in bed watching cartoons, I said 'Oh no problem, is only 12 in the afternoon there are a lot of time! "The result: The first two monthssell my business was open, not before Yes, you read that right, not a single sale, nothing, nada!

Something had to change dramatically and after a while 'self-evaluation I realized that I wanted the feeling that I worked so much that I actually work. So I set out every morning and go to a building near where I have my articles, write the results of advertising, process or receive e-mails and I would have been written in the rule of "Get Down".

Already, because of my severe anxietyI myself rent an office in a building in the center.

For those of you over who is more self-discipline me, you probably do not need to leave home, but apart from space that occurs in your mind your "office" most definitely helps to have.

If you stop in your "office", what you do for the day and then you must run the "Lounge Mode.

Second, investments & Invest.

I can not stress this fact enough. I could write another horror story of moneywasted rather than invested in my own business early and got Stephen King to write a story about it so we let the Word Slinger do his job.

If your online business need to invest money. There is nothing wrong with retail space out in comparison, inventory purchasing and support as needed with a traditional business, but apply the same rules.

Invest now to collect tomorrow.

Many people sacrifice their Tomorrows altar today, buta very successful business man or woman who will then have to sacrifice in my opinion, your present tomorrow at the altar.

Third Track results.

Always monitor the results of any advertising you do. Always ask, "What advertising attracts buyers?"

There are so many services that the advertising is simply impossible for me to list here, but if you find what works for you stick with it.

If you make 1000 sales per day fromFacebook then why would you choose or even on Google AdWords ads to change the mix? Just ramp up the amount to invest in Facebook, and watch the money roll in!

Fourth Do not be afraid of change.

Once your company to a certain extent, the chances are things are going to need to change, have grown. I found, for example, that if the sales volume of the treatment was too great, I was needed, the timing of a dedicated server to customers for download soon. In addition,a team of customer service are needed to address the problems were the customers.

At first, I tell you the real fear was as thick as tar in my throat. Voices screaming in my head: "How can I run a team of customer service?" Why do I need programmers now again? "" What happened here? "

After a while, 'but if we recognize that, to help people in your team that you want to tar and then turns into a soothing balm and you can be reassured to know, "Hey, this is my business grows, and IGreat! "

This, and some changes in the amount of zeros note at the end of your statement of account for each week.

Fifth fun.

This is more important than any other, because I tell you honestly there are people with a Home Based Business, make the mistake most catastrophic, but still manages to term because of their sheer enthusiasm. Have you ever seen a child playing with a puzzle for hours and hours thrown out without a clear plan, but somehow at the endto solve it?

With this kind of enthusiasm for your business, you can not fail. The core of the story? Have fun with my friend, have fun. We moved the jacket and tie or Hard Hat & work boots, we were able to smile again on Monday morning, as we did in the past.

Here is a humble Word Slinger wish you the best in the world.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Purchase high quality Corporate Gifts

Promotional gifts are only effective if they are in their premium quality. Quality is the yardstick when looking at the image of a brand. The superior quality of the promotional gifts leaves an impression of a class above the audience's heads. No brand wants to stand as a medium or low quality, not the public will be no action for such a brand image. Quality of Corporate Gifts is emphasized in the public perception in favor of a particular brand mold. Thisin turn, increases the mark glow. The more they draw attention to the visibility of the brand is reinforced.

You can purchase high quality gifts from online providers. Your array consists of paper products, glasses and coasters, mouse mats, torches, umbrellas, recycled products, desktop gifts, golf gifts, stress toys, key chains & key rings, pens, clothes and hats, toys and puzzles, travel accessories, calculators, calendar &Planners, refrigerator magnets, watches & jewelry, cell phone holders, folders, candy, computer accessories and bags.

To make sure you buy the best quality corporate gifts, you can observe the following guidelines: -

Visual Appeal: The quality is reflected in the emergence of promotion products. Only if you are spared visually appealing, a look we can expect from the public. Smoothness of the show leads to an alignment with the great fashionattractive factor. Today the public to watch the creativity and novelty of presentation. An intelligent mix of these characteristics is likely to draw more eyes.

Functional Value: The value of promotional gifts is also crucial to their quality. And 'the way, but also bring some' positive difference to the daily lives of users that their functional value is justified. Business gifts are included in the daily work only if they are simple andeasy to use. Thus, some value addition, all new features make this distinction. These units regularity and frequency of use. As a result, the mark will be highlighted.

Visibility Logo: Logo is a symbol of the brand. give emblem, along with its colorful elements such as logos, slogans and punch lines for a lot of talk about the brand they represent. Printing, layout and general features of this mark on the body of Promo Gifts Businessvisibility should be considered. Their clarity over long distances, should be analyzed sobriety of color and impact for the brand more exposure.