Flash Games Are Good For You ; Good For Your Child

The modern day lifestyle is giving in to smaller nuclear families, with both parents working to make ends meet more comfortably. Even if one of the parent is non-working, the need to get away for sometime is pervasive and understandably so. The good old days are also gone when children used to play in group as families used to be joint and/ or had many children. Now parents are increasingly having a single child only. Under the circumstances, online computer games offer immense help as an effective baby sitter who not only makes a child sit at one place, but also enhances his/ her mental faculties and reflexes.

The computer games invariably render the young children technology savvy as they get interested into computers because of the games to start with. This sort of transforms a class lesson into a road to entertainment that is traveled with keen interest and sincerity. The familiarity with computers gradually developed into thorough knowledge and eventually attained a unique comfort level with computer technology and topics of relevance. It is always a matter of initiative with children. The first few steps into a subject render them confident and comfortable in the subject forever!

Online games relieve the parents to worry about the fellow children who can play with their child. The single child families are specifically benefitted as they do not have to rely on another child from neighborhood or otherwise, to join in and enrich the play for their child. They do not have to engage a baby sitter either, whose duties are generally to look after the safety of the child as he/ she does not sit at one place. Online games simply enchant the young minds and make them sit at one place… before the monitor screen of a computer !

The web is teeming with a wide variety of computer games, ranging from action and adventure to puzzles and word games... the online games offer ample variety for children to enthuse them into playing these games with initial assistance, wherever necessary. The board games are pretty enjoyable for children, who feel particulary attracted to bright and colorful animations provided by these games on interactive basis. The domino effect in these games is particularly enchanting for young children.

What's more the good news does not end with replacement of a fussy and expensive baby sitter for your child, the good news extends beyond and above. Online computer games allow your child to learn subconsciously and refine ones motor skills, hand – eye coordination, reflexes, logical thinking and various other skills. Thus, in no uncertain words, the computer games allow pleasure and fun along with sharpened intelligence. The distraction provided by computer games take his/ her mind off from the fact that he/ she does not have any body else to play. The computer becomes his/ her steady friend.

Besides enhanced intelligence and exercise for eyes, the online games instil in your child a sense of understanding of what competition means. Because the online games do not present a direct challenge to his/ her ego, which often happens in group games when a child loses or wins, the online games help your child to accept win and lose in the same spirit. He/ she earns patiences and perseverance over time. Further, the child learns a very invaluable lesson of life… hardwork!
The child learns that to achieve everything you want, you need to work hard. Moreover, with Human Resource Development people recognizing proficiency in playing computer games as an added advantage and a plus point in the profile, your child is better off with online flash and shockwave games in all respects.

Flasks: Make Great Gifts And Movie Props

Imagine this set-up in a comedy film: two men are trapped under a sewer because of some freak accident. It was just coincidence that the other character in the story has a flask with him. As the scene goes on, the two tough characters began to tell each other their life stories taking turns at a swig from the flask. After sometime, the alcoholic beverage in the flask begins to kick-in that as they go on with their stories, one of them begins to break-out and cry, which is a really funny scene.

That movie is I-Spy starring Eddie Murphy and Owen Wilson. In the movie, the flask is subliminally guiding the attention of the movie-goers, while it can also act as a cue for the actor that he is about to speak his script lines. Flasks make great props in movie scenes where there is a conversation between two or three actors. This strategy has been used a number of times in Hollywood films.

Off reel, flasks, especially hip flasks, were restricted to gentlemen or people with noble birth during the old days, although, it is not so surprising to discover women with tucked flasks in their garter belts as well. It is always filled with liquor and is supposed to keep the body warm during the biting cold of winter. This use for the hip flask definitely stuck with us until today that having a hip flask tucked into ones trousers or jeans makes one look like an alcoholic. 

Today, a flask is considered as an interesting and valuable gift. It is in fact ironic that an item filled with alcohol can  also be managed to be a symbol of elegance and style. For instance, in the movie Spy Game, starring Robert Redford and Brad Pitt, the latter gave the former a flask as a gift. In the movie, the flask, old yet priceless, symbolizes the apprentice's trust, loyalty and reverence to his mentor. On the other hand, when the mentor sees the gift after he had tucked it away for so long, he realizes the meaning behind the gift and is thus propelled to act in aid of his apprentice in distress.

It is either from the sheer polish of silver or its colorful use in the movie industry that propelled the flask to popularity. You can check at any souvenir stores and you may find one or two flasks for sale. Try to look a glass lining inside to see if you have chosen a quality flask. A flask with a glass lining protects the metallic taste from mixing with the drink.

Whatever the reason behind its fame, a flask is definitely a gift that is welcomed by anyone, alcoholic or not. If MTV ever had the coolest accessory in a movie film award, it had to be a flask. No other item can handle itself better in a scene than a flask. The only problem is who will accept the award?

Flash Games Are Ruling The Market

Gradually with time and technology, the days of video games at arcades are not only fading but also almost facing extinction. And taking over the rule is none other than the most sought after and established free online flash and shockwave games! In fact, online games are being perceived as the future of the interactive entertainment industry.

If you talk to an owner of a game arcade these days, he will tell you that the business is not as lucrative as it used to be. The glamorous flashy image of the game arcades are being largely outcast by the more easily accessible and much cheaper free online games based on flash and shockwave.

The bright and colorful game arcades boasting of beautiful display of flash games in different colors and shapes, outshining each other in their visual appeal, are losing their place and giving way to the online game mania extensively because people are living a hectic and tight schedule.  They prefer entertainment at home, especially if it means wider options of games, flexibility of schedule and the expenses reduced to merely Internet and electricity bill.

The prospects of excitement and entertainment offered by game parlors or game arcades cannot be denied. Those who have experienced it can only cherish the fun of collecting money as children to play a game at the arcade or enjoying a game at the arcade as a couple while out on a date. The flash games are enchanting and unfailingly hypnotize as if, into trying them out or at least watch other players play them. They bring alive a superficial impression of any location or environment or situation so vividly that it inspires awe and holds you hooked on.

However, the flash games at game parlors or arcades have their own limitations. First and foremost, you cannot enjoy one or more games incessantly at the very instance of will. Then you cannot switch between games, play game after game for hours together and no money constraint to worry about or no waiting for your turn or no saturation of pocket money after the end of the day.

Can you imagine yourself playing at a game arcade right away after getting out of bed in your night pyjamas? Can you think of playing as well as, in between attending to household chores at a game parlor? Of course not! But you can do all that and more with an Internet connection at home, connecting you to a free online games website!

The flash games are as effective on a personal computer's monitor as it is at a game parlor. The online games also bring you under an impression of being at a huge Hollywood show or a grand casino in Las Vegas. What's more, you can try out many games one by one without any charge or waiting. You can download your favorite games or play them online, as per your own discretion and comfort. Besides, you get to play more variety of games than a regular game arcade can offer.

In fact, the flash and shockwave based games available online are so intriguing and enthralling that people feel hooked on to their computers and end up staying indoors the whole day. Some people enjoy these games so much that they end up being addicts, as you can find them glued up with their personal computers during odd hours as well..

Flameless Candles, A Revolution?

Are you scared to sleep at night with a candle burning in your room? Do you still want to enjoy the warmth of the candle light? Flameless candles are the best solution for you. There is nothing more pleasant than basking in the warm light of a flameless candle. They are useful for other events as well, at work for instance where other types of candles are not allowed, when you go for a picnic or on a boat ride. Flameless candles are perfect for a range of situations, without your having to worry about the wind blowing them off or your kids getting burned. They may be a little bit more expensive than the regular ones, but they're worth every penny.

One 100% natural flameless candles

What's the working principle of a flameless candle? Well, that's no secret at all. Usually made of pure beeswax, flameless candles are battery-based. The switch on and off mode is very simple. With the help of a motion-detecting sensor, you can turn the candles on or off. The light is actually a led burning for up to one hundred hours. Just think of the advantages, you can even leave such candles near curtains and around children without running any risk.

Because there is no flame, you eliminate the risk of fire, the hassle of cleanup and the cost of replacing regular candles. You eliminate the pollution, too — leading health organizations describe candles as a serious indoor air-quality risk because of large volumes of soot.

If you think you're going to miss regular scented candles, I've got great news! There are scented flameless candles too, but without the inconvenience of the slightest trace of smoke. Such candles have all the features of the normal ones but without the disadvantages. These flameless candles even imitate the real flame flickering. Such flameless candles come in a variety of dimensions and shapes: there are even votive candles you can purchase.

Price for quality

Rechargeable flameless candles may be a little more expensive, but they are a small investment, given the fact that you can use them as many times you want afterwards. Such candles don't have a time burning limit; the use of lithium batteries makes is possible to recharge them over and over again. Mention should be made that very often this kind of candles make an excellent gift. If you lack ideas about how you make a surprise gift, this is a great option. There are plenty of online catalogues with a variety of models for you to choose from. You may even take advantage of the candle wholesale periods, to make purchases at an even smaller price.

Flamboyant Rock Band Frontmen - Part 1

One of the greatest yet most realistic clich้s of the proverbial rock band would be the colourful and extroverted singer. Often the livewire of the band, the frontman screams and shouts, swinging his microphone as the struts on stage as the other members of the band stand motionless in the shadows behind him.

The band, the stage, the arena, the crowd - they all obey the frontman; this is his kingdom, and he calls the shots as he sees fit.

Frontmen also help establish the stage presence and overall aura of a band; and it would be disastrous for a band to have a talented vocalist who lacks the people skills required to lead the band into a rock show night in and night out. It's their duty to not only carry out a shining vocal performance for the band's songs, but to also be the middleman between the crowd and the band, bridging the gap between mortal men and rock superstars.

Let's take a look at some of the greatest livewire singers rock music has ever seen.

1) Robert Plant

Fabulously fashionable with equally fabulous looks and vocal proficiency, Plant was probably rock's greatest frontman. He made his fame and fortune with British rock legends Led Zeppelin, and played a vital role in helping the band sell their 300 million albums worldwide.

Robert Plant, alongside guitarist Jimmy Page, were the dynamic duo of the band; and with their flare jeans and chest-baring shirts they captured the hearts and minds of millions over the world. Their chemistry on stage, coupled with the raw energy from the rhythm section of John Paul Jones and John Bonham, cemented Led Zeppelin's place in the annals of rock history.

Plant's admirable vocal prowess allowed him to add another dimension of mystique and charm to the band's emotionally-charged tunes, and his trademark stage presence and energy was unparalleled at the time. He can be heard doing what he does best on such Led Zeppelin hits like Stairway To Heaven, Whole Lotta Love and Black Dog.

The tragic death of their drummer John Bonham marked the heartbreaking end of their touring years but Plant will always be remembered as the voice and face of Led Zeppelin.

2) Axl Rose

With Axl Rose, it's a love or hate affair. He was the original vocalist of Guns 'N Roses and only remaining original member left in the new lineup touring today.

Rose shot to fame (pun intended) during the illustrious years of the band in the early 90s - especially after the release of their landmark album Appetite For Destruction - and helped bring immense commercial success to the band with his soulful and energetic singing in songs like Welcome To The Jungle, Paradise City and Sweet Child O'Mine.

It was not all fine and dandy for Rose, though. His temperamental attitude got him and the rest of the band in hot soup in trouble several times, and was probably the reason why all the other members of the band started quitting Guns 'N Roses one by one.

Rose has landed the band in hot soup numerous times, but one infamous incident involving a fan who was videotaping a Guns show allowed the world to see Rose rear his ugliest head yet. He was also criticized by gay rights activists, who accused Rose of being disseminating anti-gay propaganda.

Fans of the band will never forgive Rose for not allowing the name of their beloved band to rest in peace after having "created" a preposterous Guns 'N Roses alternate with a forgettable lineup. Not only that, Rose is entirely responsible for the band's most expensive album never released, entitled Chinese Democracy - which has swallowed over $13 million in production costs over the course of several years, and with no release date in sight. To make matters worse, Rose has said many times previously that the album will be out soon - but with most of the fairly-forgettable material readily available on the internet it's no surprise that the album will not revive the bands seemingly futile existence.

Even though Rose allowed his personal turbulences get the better of him, he will be remembered as one of the most unique rock 'n roll voices of the 90s.

Fixing A Metal Plate To Candlesticks

Fix the base in the turn with the stick to cross in octagon, stick it to the base by using a piece of finger. While this dries is a good time to manufacture a plate before special holding the base in the turn. The tail stock holds the end of the stick. My plate before made on order started by an aluminum 3" dish (6). I screwed a piece of 1" - the thick hard maple which had been cut" the circle to 3 with him and to the bottom turned him with just more than 3" of diameter beside the 3 below metal plate and right" on the other end. To drill one 3/16" hole in the center while the front plate is still assembled on the headstock. To cut a piece of 3/16" - the steel stem of diameter approximately to 1 ".

Throw in the pressure and the file of drill or to rectify the end at a very pointed point while the stem turns. To stick this stem in the hole in the plate before so that only 1/8" to 5/32" of the point is proud surface. The metal plate I employed has two sets of holes of support. I was accustomed to the external holes to screw the dish with the face out of wooden.. I drilled holes by the face out of wooden by the interior whole of holes of support. Then I ran 1 "the screws length of head of pan by the latter hole so that the points of the screws exceeded 3/32" or less beyond the surface of the face out of wooden (7). If your screws are too long, to use the discs to adjust them so that very little point shows.

The needle stem, which should further exceed that the screws, and these four screws act a center of tooth just like. It takes a little crushing with a mallet to assemble the white to the front plate. But you do not want to hammer directly on of metal plate; you'll want to employ a piece of fall to protect it.

Five Top Tips For Making A Diaper Cake

Diaper Cakes are becoming more popular for baby showers and newborn gift ideas. These cakes, which offer everything a new mom needs for her new bundle of joy, can make any baby shower unforgettable. Not only do they leave a lasting impression, but the new mother can use every item in the cake, from the blankets to the diapers, thus providing a fun and useful gift for the proud mom-to-be. You can make them a three layer to just a one layer depending on the size gift you want to send.

Here are top five tips to making a diaper cake.

ท Fill your cakes with items you know the mother will be using. Diapers and blankets we all know, but items like baby lotions, powder, hand sanitizer, nail clippers, bottom balm, or Vaseline. You may also include a bottlebrush, baby bottle, scratch mittens and so on.

ท Choose quality products when you can. I use Luvs diapers as they are bigger and make your cake more stable. Blanket size does matter. Keep that in mind when deciding on the size of your cake. For example, 7, 8, 10, or 12 29x29 will give you an 8" cake and 30 x 40 will give you an 12" cake, a burp cloth will give you an 7" (they have really cute and colorful burp clothes out now) for a 10" this size is in between so you can use a 30 x 40 and just bring in one end a little more to make it a 10".

ท Make sure you wrap cake as this will deter others form touching or moving items around. Use cellophane wrap or cellophane bags, or tulle. Use lots of curly ribbon makes your cakes look so pretty.

ท Have fun and create your own style everyone has their own. Themed cakes are very popular (Disney). Also if the sex of baby is unknown don't fear...mix it up a bit go with neutral colors. If you know the babies room color that is even better.

ท If your choosing this as a business-congrats. Making diaper cakes for a living is so much fun and very rewarding. A few starter tips are: Have professional pictures taken of your cakes. Use these as a portfolio and put them in a book for show and tell. Have business cards made up and brochures. Set your pricing. Tell everyone about your cakes. It is the best time start as many people in your city have more then likely not even heard of a diaper cake.

Five Resons I Love Audiobooks

One of the hottest trends on the Internet these days is the downloading of audiobooks. I've been an audiobook fan for a long time and I have five reasons why I like them so much.

1)  Audiobooks are available in many formats and thus can be heard in many ways, on many devices.  After downloading, audiobooks are playable on computers, then can be burned to a disc, and can be loaded to an iPod or mp3 player.

2)  The amount of books I read per week is greatly increased because the amount of time I have to sit down and read written books is very limited.  Before audiobooks, I was able to squeeze in about 2 books a month.  I still do read about 1 per month, but now, I add another 2-5 audiobooks that I listen to in my car or on my iPod.

3)  Listening to audiobooks makes my downtime much more productive.  An example is on the commute to work.  Instead of listening to mindless radio, I prefer to listen to an audiobook.  I work closely with my customers and I enjoy audiobooks on business and relationships.  Since I started listening to the audiobooks on my commute, my productivity and bottom line have really taken off.

4)  I used to do business with an avid reader who recently had a stroke.  He is very happy that a friend turned him on to audiobooks.  He can now still keep his mind active and can learn from books with out having to pick them up and turning the pages.  His vision is also blurry so he has a hard time with words.  Audiobooks are also great for the visually impaired.  Rather then straining over reading small type, one only has to hit play and then can sit back and listen.

5)  I no longer have to chase people down to get books back after I loan them out.  We have all had this happen, you loan a friend a book and never see it again.  Now it is no real loss if you don't get back a cd that you made from your computer.  Or it only takes a moment to load an audiobook to a friend's iPod or mp3 player.

Five Basics Of Supply And Demand In The Hand Made Craft Business

As is with all other successful business principles, marketing hand made crafts also involves knowing the market trends and customer needs. But since this is a business which you operate from you home, it is essential to learn the supply and demand equations, to achieve your financial goals.

The supply and chain, simply means knowing what your customers are looking for, and supplying the specific items. Given below are five tips on how to assess customer demand and how to supply the right item accordingly.

1. Know customer trends/customer needs. This means that you must know whether what you make is preferred by the customer. If you have your own niche in style and design, you can always keep a good amount of stocks, to last a long time. You can take note of customer trends, not only by observing what they buy but also through many organizations who provide valuable information on various aspects of the hand made craft business. Since trends have a short life-cycle, you should continuously focus on the niche that you have built. Trends will naturally follow these items.

2. Build up extra stocks. There are many ways to know how much you should make and how much you should stock. Taking orders from home or online is simple. If you participate in a handicraft show, keep ready stocks available. Talk to people who have taken part previously and also the organizers of these craft shows, to get a first hand feel of the purchase patterns. Moreover, always know what items are your best sellers. If they are seasonal products, make sure that you have enough stock in that particular season. Since customer demand may not remain the same every year, studying the fluctuations over a period of time, gives you a fair idea of the customer choices.

3. Stay ahead. Whatever you niche may be, make sure that you have adequate stocks of items that sell o may not sell. This gives you the advantage of a faster turn around time when in need. A professional always keeps enough stocks. Especially when potential customers make enquiries about an item which is gaining popularity.

4. Keep a tab on what you sell. To know what stocks you should keep is to know what you are selling. Not only should you do this for your on line sales but also all the craft shows you have participated in and the goods which were popular during that time. Since demand for a particular item can grow through word of mouth publicity, it is possible that the popular items of last year will become even more popular this year.

5. Get hold of more relevant information. If you are a novice in the handicraft business and not too sure what sells and what does not, you must get in touch with people who do know. There are many organizations as well as individuals who can help you with valuable information on the subject. The other information sources for sales estimates and inventory levels are online, magazines, daily newspapers etc who can throw more light on the matter of handicraft business.

Irrespective of which handicraft you decide to business in, which niche of the market you wish to capture, where you wish to sell your products, the most critical element is to maintain adequate stocks of your products at all times, so that there is never a stock out situation. If you can assess the market trends and customer preferences and make products accordingly, you will soon become a successful professional in the field.

First Steps In Training Your Voice

The first step in voice training is awareness. I have heard some colleagues say that unless one has a specific speech problem, voice training is something solely for singers and perhaps actors. In summary, voice training is, most importantly, getting the performer to think outside the box. I learned how important breath control acquired through voice training is in music. So, how do you know if one on one voice training is for you, and how do you find a coach suited for your voice. In some cases formal voice training is valuable. Voice training is tedious. Proper voice training is essential so that you can learn to utilize this natural instrument without damaging it. Classical voice training is a plus factor.

The goal of this study is to define the long-term influence of vocal hygiene education and the effectiveness of voice training. This network provides a variety of high-quality vocal coaching and voice training tools. Vocal coaching for all levels and styles - pop, rock, urban, dance, music theatre and opera. Focus on breath control and expanding vocal range. Look for "vocal stress-busters" sprinkled throughout the internet. These are short songs to sing. Respect your vocal limits. So what makes you think that you do not need vocal lessons? Everyone can sing, but it is difficult to sing well without vocal training. Voice care is important for vocal health. Even a slight change in your vocal cords can render your voice unrecognizable.

With a music tutor, the performer may see whether he/she is singing at the correct pitch and how high the musical quality of his/her voice is. You will need to train to release the full potential of your voice. You can try books on singing, speech training and voice training. If you want to try it alone then I recommend the singing programs: 'Singing Success' or 'The Ultimate Voice Training for Singers'. If you are already singing professionally, then it is vital that you take up voice training to separate you from the crowd. You will need excellent, safe techniques for singing, speaking, and acting. The skill of directing the sound and holding it there during singing creates the artistry of proper voice training. Learn the same technique used by popular singing stars. A song based method for developing the singing voice. Performance training, group singing can help you project your singing voice. Start training and singing today.

Voice training is complex. To reach your full potential it takes a lot of practice. You will need to be dedicated to the art of singing. Make sure you take care of your voice and don't over do it.

First Sheet Music

The Historic American Sheet Music, Rare, Book, Manuscript and Special Collections Library at Duke University struggles with the definition of sheet music. Though some might desire to relegate the use of the term "sheet music" to popular or modern music, The Library at Duke has discovered that "Especially in the mid-nineteenth century, a publisher may have issued sacred and secular songs, Lieder, opera excerpts, potpourris, waltzes, marches and descriptive etudes side-by-side." They go on to describe sheet music as the mere physical product of recording music on paper. Sheet music can also be described as a "score". However it is described, sheet music is the way in which a reader (one who reads musical notation) can play a piece of music.

Sheet music provides a special kind of potential entertainment. Musical scores, specifically those written for or including the piano, were very popular at the turn of the century as many private homes had pianos. Before radio became the preferred form of entertainment, regular people had to create their own entertainment. A new set of sheet music was like a new TV show, and allowed anyone who could play to entertain themselves with a new piece of music.

Another popular and now defunct function of sheet music was as a carrier for art. In some cases, the art on the cover of the sheet music was as interesting and desirable as the music found inside. Music publishing (in America) began in the 1790's. At that point it was not big business because unlike a century later, the average consumer did not have a piano in the house and, as America was still expanding, shipping was difficult and costly. It wasn't until after the Civil War that the visual art on the cover of the sheet music became as important as the audible art found on the inside. One particular artist, E.T. Paul because particularly well known for his song choices and cover art. He began by commissioning color lithographs for his own pieces of composition. It is believed that much of his (wild) success was due less to the content of his music and more to his topic choice and choice of cover art. In the same way that cover art revolutionized the sale and advertising qualities of sheet music, cheap alternatives for shipping took this fledgling American industry from being strictly regional to being able to reach all over the country.

Finishing The Candlestick Handle

To make the handle, well, in conclusion, it's gonna take about an hour to make the handle. The handle is "deeply to adapt the groove which was led in the edge of the base. It is 1" round (on three sides) and has a hole of 7/8" in it. Since the edges of the hole must be round surplus I started with a piece mahogany tree which was 2" broad and 12" long. I had the diameter external with a square corner and marked the center of the handle. To drill the 7/8 initially" hole. Then, by using one the 1/8" little of round over with a guide of bearing in that's of router gone up in a table of router, relieves the edges of the hole on the two sides.

On the table saw, crosscut the piece of wood with approximately 1". On the end with long grain of the square corner, to put a mark on the edge which corresponds to the center of the hole that you drilled inside the base. With a "little in the drill to tighten and a barrier to strengthen the mean piece of wood, drill a hole deeply". To cut now the handle outside on the band saw. To remember only three corners to obtain round; the fourth corner with the hole in the place with long grain of the remainders. To sandpaper smooth and relieve the square edges leaving them where the handle and the base intersect. To put a completion on the handle, but not on the sector where adhesive of you'll it at the base. To cut a piece of a finger to the length and to stick the handle to the base.

While this whole process seems as can take weeks with the completion given to him the special gauges and plates before necessary, it can be really accomplished in weekend. And once the gauges are built to adapt your equipment, the manufacture of the candlesticks by the dozen will be fast and pleasant.

Fine Art Photography

Fine art photography can be referred to as art photography. Art photography is a specialization and it requires a lot of skill, dedication and an understanding of art, painting, sculptures, nature etc. If you want to become an art photographer, then you will require an eye for details so that you can take high-quality archival photographic prints of pictures or portraits. These fine art prints will be reproduced in limited numbers to be sold to art dealers, curators, art galleries and even magazines.

Art photography has a long history and its early 20th century form was called Pictorial ism although the movement did not last too long. Much later in the 20th century, art photography was accepted and today some people regard Alfred Stieglitz, Edward Steichen, John Szarkowski and Hugh Edwards as the pioneers of art photography. Most of the photographs taken during the 1970's and the 80's were showcased in art galleries and the genre styles comprised of natural landscapes, nudes and portraits. Aperture Foundation and the Museum of Modern Art, USA is an organization that has been on the forefront for keeping this kind of photography alive.

Since the advent of color photography there has been an immense change in the world of fine art photography as now photographers can use various color filters to bring out certain hidden characteristics in any painting. Now you can take photographic prints on photographic paper and the requirement in the 21st century is for hi-gloss wall-sized prints as opposed to its predecessor, delicate prints in thin frames.

There are many great photographers who have dedicated their life to the development of art photography by using themes. One such photographer is Anne Geddes. A well known art photographer, Anne has spent a lifetime taking pictures of babies. Most of her work has also been featured on books, calendars and greeting cards.. The best place to check for some of the best art photographs is at 51 fine art photography situated in Antwerpen, Belgium. They host exhibitions of some of the famous and beautiful art photographs. The art photographers who have participated in this exhibition include Arthur Leipzig, Diane Arbus, Louis Faurer, Ted Croner, Joan Fontcuberta, Bruce Davidson, Seydou Keita, William Klein, Cornelius Augustt Azaglo, Garry Winogrand, Jean Pierre Khazem, Ronald Stoops & Inge Grognard and Nicole Tran Ba Vang.

It is not necessary to take pictures of paintings and sculptures for art photography. You can also take photographs of inspiring landscape scenes and convert them into an absolutely beautiful piece of art. There are a few essentials things that you need to know in order to become a good fine art photographer. Some of them are:

A reliable camera that can shoot in fully manual as well as fully auto focus modes

Camera Mounted Flash: This is required only if your subject is portraitures. For landscape or nature photography, you can use fill flash, which is available with most cameras today.

Film Speed: If your subject is portraitures then slower speeds of 25 to 400 is required but for actions shots you will need faster speeds of 600 and above.

Shutter Speed: It depends on what kind of a photograph you want to take. You can choose a blur motion or freeze motion.. If you choose a shutter speed of 1/60th then you will get blur motion. The normal setting in a camera is 1/125th. If you want a freeze action mode then 1/500th is good enough although it can go up to 1/2000th of a second depending on the camera.

Aperture: The aperture in a camera decides the amount of light that can reach the film in the camera.

Finding Trade Shows In Your Area

Trade shows are a great way to help your business gain exposure, to network with other businesses, and to gain new customers. Unfortunately, many businesses have difficulty finding trade shows in their area where they can show off what their company has to offer. Since many businesses do the bulk of their business from their local geographic area, tapping into this market is imperative for the success of the business.

Finding a Local Trade Show Online

One of the best ways to find trade shows in your area is to look online. The Internet is an excellent resource for finding local tradeshows, with many websites being dedicated solely to listing when trade shows will be visiting certain areas.

There are several different websites that can be used to help you find out more information about local tradeshows. Some of these sites include:

• AllConferences.com
• BizTradeShows.com
• EventsEye.com
• Exhibitions.co.uk
• ExpoDatabase.com
• ExpoFairs.com
• ExpoGuide.com
• GlobalSources.com
• JupiterEvents.com
• MyTradeFairs.com
• Tradeshow.alibaba.com
• TradeShowPlaza.com
• TradeShowWeek.com
• TSNN.com
• WhatsShowing.on.ca

Since tradeshows take place around the world and since there are so many different businesses that benefit from the use of tradeshows, there are literally thousands of tradeshow listings within these sites. Therefore, it is beneficial to visit each of these sites and determine which ones are aligned most closely with your business.

The Trade Show News Network, which is found at www.tssnn.com, is a particularly good site to use when looking for local tradeshows. Here, you can find nearly any type of tradeshow by looking through the extensive database that covers both United States and Canada tradeshows.

Expanding Your Geographic Circle

Keep in mind when you are researching tradeshows in your area that you will need to give yourself a wide range of geographic options. Restricting yourself to just the town or city in which your business is located may not be big enough. In addition, if you live near to a major metropolitan area, you will want to look into trade shows in these areas as well. Since these trade shows will likely draw in a large number of visitors, you certainly don't want to pass up this opportunity.

Going Straight to the Source

In addition to performing searches on the Internet, you can also find out more about tradeshows in your area by contacting trade associations related to professional organizations within your field. By contacting relevant trade associations, you can obtain lists of locations, events, and dates that you can choose from.

Another option is to get in contact with your local chamber of commerce. Your convention and visitor's bureaus should also be able to give you more information about upcoming events in your area, including tradeshows.

Reading publications related to your field can also be helpful. In fact, most industry-specific publications will provide full year calendars as well as regular updates about upcoming events.

Finding local tradeshows really is not a difficult task. With the help of online publications, local offices, and paper publications such as magazines and newspapers, staying on top of the local tradeshow scene could never be easier.

Finding The Right Housewarming Gift Basket

You may know a couple that has just bought their first house. Of course, you would like to give them a gift for the special occasion, but you aren't quire sure what to get. It's generally a good idea to avoid the more expensive house decorations, like lamps and furniture, just in case your taste does not match theirs. Unless you know for sure of a specific item that the new homeowners have been wanting. If that isn't the case, consider creating a unique gift in the form of a housewarming gift basket.

About Housewarming Gift Baskets

The great things about gift baskets is that they can include whatever you want them to include with the only limitation being that they must fit within the basket that you purchase. While some stores might sell custom-made housewarming gift baskets, many times you will have to create one yourself based on the things you know that the couple either needs or would really enjoy.

For example, the husband loves golf, and you know that he will have a den in the new house. So, include in the gift basket a professional picture of his favorite golfer or golf course. You may also find items like golf figurines, clocks, desk accessories, and picture frames to name a few. The wife loves arts and crafts, and as such will have her own sewing room in the new house, so you might want to get her a personalized sign for her door and include that in the gift basket.

Housewarming gift baskets don't have to include only those things that would be appropriate for the new home. For example, if you know that the couple has a favorite restaurant, get them a gift certificate there. Or, if they are new to the neighborhood and the area, get them a guide book containing all the nearby attractions, and a gift certificate to a nearby restaurant that you think they would like.

Perhaps the couple is the kind that likes to stay in and plans to do so a lot as they get used to their new home. If you think this is the case, make a gift basket that includes such things as DVDs, music (to set the mood) and perhaps even a matching set of his and hers pajamas!

When a couple first moves into their new home, chances are that their refrigerator may be somewhat empty. This can easily be fixed with the right gift basket. If you know the couple quite well, include their favorite treats, as well as goodies packed in the form of a picnic basket, so that one of the couple's first meals in their new home can be a romantic one. With the proper planning and effort, you are sure to create a housewarming gift basket that the couple is sure to appreciate.

Finding The Perfect Occupants For Your Dollhouse

Much thought and effort is placed into the design, building, interior decorating and furnishing of a dollhouse. Often, however, the actual dollhouse residents are given little or no thought. While some dollhouses sit as empty and vacant showpieces, many dollhouse owners prefer to add a bit of realism to the dollhouse by adding a doll family.

The dolls that you select will depend on the age and interests of the dollhouse owner, as well as the function for which the dollhouse is used. If the dollhouse is for a small child, dolls should definitely be included in the package. It is by playing with the dolls that the child will learn important life lessons. Be sure that the dolls are sturdy and large enough that no pieces will present a choking hazard. Also, be prepared for the dolls to end up in extremely strange locations and situations. Some unexpected occupants will also move in, mostly other dolls that the child owns. A child's dollhouse should be considered a toy rather than a showpiece.

For a display dollhouse, the dolls should fit with the theme of the house. You can custom make dolls, have commissioned pieces made from your own design, or order pre-made dolls. A wide variety of pre-made dolls are available. Most are designed to fit the common 1:12 scale, but you can find dolls in all miniature scales.

The number of dolls and their apparent ages will vary according to the style and era of the dollhouse, its size, and the story you are trying to portray. If you wish to show the everyday life of Victorian aristocracy, the dolls you select will be far different from those used to show life during the American Great Depression.

Remember that the focus should remain on the dollhouse. Feel free to take artistic license in selecting the dolls. If the average number of children in a family of the era was 12, you do not need to fill the house with 12 individual child dolls. It would be perfectly appropriate to have three or four children of a range of ages.

Doll clothes can be either purchased or made by hand. When making doll clothes, remember that scrap fabrics from a variety of sources work extremely well. At the scale of a dollhouse doll, elaborate detailing can be implied more than created outright. A simple scrap of black velvet, for example, can be formed and decorated with a gold pen to create the illusion of a ball gown.

Whether you purchase or create your dolls and their clothes, keep in mind that the dolls' function is to balance the dollhouse and create a sense of life. Do not become so focused on elaborate dolls that you throw the dollhouse out of proportion. Bring the dolls into the overall interior design plan of the dollhouse for the most realistic and harmonious effect.

Finding The Game For You!

When you want to download games for free, it's hard to find quality software. Who needs the worries of trojans, spyware, adware, or worse, when you can get a handy, easy-to-use and safe downloading program?

After I got Situated on the page (which took a surprisingly short time), the first impression I got was of an enormous selection. I took the website for a test drive, and I found almost everything I could think of, in very short order. The stuff I didn't find the first time around, I found on my second test run a few hours later. Needless to say, I was seriously impressed. I've never seen this much variety before.It's rare when a webiste does everything it promises to do, and even rarer when that same website is easy to use. In this case, I am glad to say that all of my expectations were met, and more! More specifically, this program promised a fast connection, lots of sources, unlimited downloading, and best of all, ease of use. I was pleased to see that everything worked almost immediately, installing and configuring with virtually no user input.

Just plug and play!Search thousands upon thousands of Game Files, Full-length DVD Quality Movies, Software your Favorite Songs and much more. There are never any limits on the amount of searches that you can do and no limits on the things you can search for. No Spyware or Adware. Get 100% Faster downloads and 100% more available files to download!Download anything you want, any time you want. Over 4 million people are constantly connected, sharing over 800 million files!

We will provide you Game download software, Free Music, DVD Copy & Backup Software, MP3 Players, CD Burning Software, Online Music Search, Lyrics, Internet Radio, Popup & Spyware removers, technical support and much more! See everything you can think of from gaming to music just one click away. I have to say with all these options to choose from this site is defenitely worth my praise!!!

Finding The Best Woodworking Contractor For The Job

Employing someone to fix your woodwork is easier than employing a general contractor. It's simpler than redecorating your house in entirety. Few guidelines are given here on how to employ the most eligible contractor for this work.

You must have a clear idea of what you want and have a clear picture of it in your mind. Making a rough draft or jotting down on a paper what you want can also help. It would enable the contractor to get a clear picture of what you want hence closely replicate it.

Keep your options open and make more than one contractor bid for the contract with their estimates for the job. Avoid bids for Mahogany or Oak as it spoils the whole purpose of the bidding tactile.

Thoroughly investigate about the most promising contractor. Find out about their licenses (whether they conform to the state norms); check the recommendations of their earlier clients, their work statistics and other information's regarding their personal and criminal and financial ledgers. This would help you get an idea of the results you can expect from their work and the character of the person you will be working with.

Scrutinize the presented estimates carefully and repeatedly until you get a good understanding of it. Do not judge them by the price offers but the structural differences they hold. It may so happen a contractor who charges $50 more than the other can get the work done in less than 8 days.

Signing of a contract is an important step. With it, you formally hire your chosen contractor. So make sure the contract holds the details you mutually agreed upon and pay special attention to the schedule of payment. Keep a copy of it with you if necessary.
From this it emerges that you must hire that contractor with whom you can freely communicate, who values your suggestions and is ready to satisfy your queries. It is essential to remember that you'll have to make them work on your vision and not make a do with there is. While dealing with them you should be alert and act smartly so that you can hire the best wood contractor.

Finding The Best Quilting Pattern For You

Now is the perfect time to get into the art of quilting. One of the best-kept secrets around for a long time, quilting has had a rapid surge in popularity over the last few years, and as a result, the selection of quilting patterns has greatly increased. These days, believe it or not, there are literally thousands of patterns from which to choose, coming in various sizes and shapes as well as having distinctive and original designs. With such a wide selection available, you might find it difficult to choose which pattern to use for your next quilting project.

Well, take heart - and a deep breath - and remember that quilting is an art and should be enjoyable! So, when choosing a pattern, take the extra time to pick one that you are drawn to and that you think will be a good fit for your project, as well as keep you motivated to actually complete the quilt. (It's surprising how many unfinished quilts there are around - those poor quilters sure could use some good advice!)

Now when selecting a pattern, keep in mind the theme that the quilt is going to have. This will help you to determine which material and colors to use. For example, if you are planning to create a quilt as a gift for a small child, you will not want to use a heavy material for your quilting pattern. You will want a light, soft, durable material that will suit the purpose of the quilt. If you are creating a quilt that is to be put on display, a factor such as durability will not be nearly as important since it will not be put through the rigors or daily use. Your main focus should be on finding a pattern that is made of a heavy, intricate material and that is incredibly beautiful. If someone is getting married, you will not want to use a dark or heavy pattern. For such an occasion, you will want to use light, cheery colors and materials that are symbolic of two people entering into a life full of mutual happiness. If you keep in mind the effect you wish to achieve before selecting a pattern, it will be much easier to find what you need to create the perfect quilt.

The best location for buying quilting patterns is at a good craft store. These stores will have a wide variety of quilting patterns on display. Some of these patterns will have a picture of a completed quilt on the cover that will help you to visualize what the pattern will look like upon completion. Seeing the completed quilt before even starting is a great way to view the overall color scheme so that you can be sure whether it is the right pattern for you. With this added bit of insight, there will not be the potential for realizing the design is not what you thought it would be only after completing a great deal of the project.

Finding The Best Audio Book Download Deal

The internet has added a whole new dimension for many industries to explore, expand into and monetise, including the audio book download market. These days anyone with an internet connection and a computer or laptop has easy access to a wide selection of MP3 audio books. An increase in sales and popularity for this niche ensures it will be here for many years to com. This type of online service has been especially useful for business people who travel frequently, commuters and families looking for something to occupy the children on long trips.

The audio book market has something to suit the needs of any book lover. With the vast selection available online, the audio book download market is sure to have something that will suit just about anyones needs or taste. Business books make up a significant part of the audio book market. You can find a vast array of business categories with a large number of titles in each category just by surfing the internet. When you find one you like, all you have to do is download the mp3 or wma digital file and your ready to go. Other interesting and helpful resources like motivational materials and expert authors writing on such topics as, "establishing a successful business," are readily available.

Audio book downloads are made available to the consumer through hundreds of online stores and websites. An increasingly popular online store to obtain your MP3 audio books is Simply Listen Audiobooks. Consumers can download digital recordings of their favorite topic or author at prices that are less than purchasing the actual paper book itself. Apart from saving money the more eco-conscious amongst us will be happy in the knowledge that they are also helping the planet by not contributing to the mass tree felling programs that are going on in many parts of the world.

These online digital libraries usually stock thousands of titles with the vast majority of the best authors and subjects readily available. As a result users are certain to find something that fits their preferences while providing the opportunity to expand their horizons. If this is something that you think you may find interesting or useful but want to try the free option before laying down your hard cash, then try some of the free audio book downloads first.

Most of the first generation online audio book stores are still subscription based or membership based services. But these days you can get access to a huge number of top quality audio books without the imposition of having to join a club or pay a monthly membership fee. Most of the new wave of online audio book stores offer the same advantages and do so without the customer being tied down to purchasing from one place because of a recurring membership fee.

Some of the advantages include: being able to pick and choose the stores you download from; choosing to buy when you want; choosing to buy as many or as few titles you want; no postage costs; no late fees; instant downloads providing instant access 24 hrs a day 365 days a year. Which of course means you no longer have to depend on the postal service for delivery.

With the frantic lifestyles we we lead in today's society, the audio book market provides a valuable service for book lovers and the busy professional alike. MP3 players, ipods and compact discs along with the convenience of the internet make it possible to listen to just about any book you want at almost any time.

In my opinion this is a fantastic marriage of new technology and services that everyone from the youngest to the oldest can definitely benefit from in some way, shape or form.

Finding That Perfect Christmas Gift

The Christmas season is a time for families to get together, friends to call and say hello for no reason, to go out and buy that special someone in your life that perfect gift. No matter which one of these apply to you, I am here to help you find that perfect gift.

Say your gift is for a friend, maybe even your best friend and she is one of those people who goes out and gets what she needs or wants. Therefore, what do you do, how do you get that perfect gift. I was faced with the same problem this Christmas; luckily, I had noticed there was one Kitchen Item she did not have, a Carafe for her Coffee.

What if your friend does not care for NASCAR or already has all the knick-knacks she could want. Do you go to your favorite store and buy a gift certificate? Give them cash in a gift card? Nope make that perfect gift. Yes making that perfect gift can be as easy as knowing whether your friend likes coffee, or hot cocoa, maybe even herbal tea. Fill whichever they prefer into a simple mason jar, add a decorative card with easy to make directions, make a bow or add some lace and you have a beautiful homemade gift just for them.

Now what to do for that special someone in your life, a homemade jar of coffee may not be for them. Catching the hints they have been throwing all year is not working, what to do. Well how about a candle lit dinner for two at their favorite restaurant, or maybe an even more romantic one at home. With their favorite music playing softly in the background, a couple of tapered candles on the table, and their favorite meal waiting just for them. This may sound like a huge mistake, but trust me on this no man or woman would turn down a hand written invitation for two.

The family may be one of the hardest to find that gift that says Merry Christmas with love. Here is where a disposable camera, a nice picture frame and a photo of your family can come into play. You can go to most stores with a photo studio in it, and take that favorite picture of yours making it larger. Then place the photo in a frame, possibly decorated by your kids, with a simple card attached mentioning that they can make some special memories of their own to share. When they open their gift, you have given them a special memento and an excellent gift idea the next time they need one.

I know any of the gifts mentioned above would make wonderful Christmas Presents or just a way of saying I was thinking about you anytime of the year.

Finding Reputable Watch Repair

With the increasing popularity of cell phones – and their increased offering of extras – we now have email access, text messaging capabilities, the use of a camera and video, and instant access to up-to-date information, including the time. For many, this means that a watch has suddenly become obsolete. But for others – who hold fast to the wearing of a wrist watch – finding reputable watch repair can be confusing.

While the disrepair of some less expensive watches will warrant simply the purchase of another watch, most watches are conducive to affordable watch repair that will have it working as well – if not better – than before. There are several places to visit when you are in need of a watch repair and the choice you make should depend largely on the make and brand of your watch.

The watch repair of expensive, brand name watches is a tricky process and should be handled exclusively by the manufacturers of the watch or an authorized dealer. Designer watches comes standard with their own brand of parts and going to a watch repair shop that is not authorized for your particular brand can result in lower quality parts. Further, many designer watches carry particular warranties to be used for parts and even watch repair labor. Those authorized to repair these specific designer watches are held to the standards of the manufacturer, ensuring you a high quality repair.

For jewelry watches that contain diamonds or other precious gems, you should have your watch repair performed by a reputable jeweler that specializes in jewelry watch repair. Your concern is two-fold in this case; while you want to ensure that the mechanics of your watch are returned to their former operation, you also want to ensure that any gems are not damaged in the process. A jeweler specializing in jewelry watch repair performs their repair with an eye towards both.

Less expensive watches that can be adequately repaired for less than a new watch would cost or a watch that you want to keep for sentimental reasons can be taken to a reputable watch repair store. Just be sure to do your homework when it comes to your watch repair. The best advertising for these stores is word-of-mouth so ask around to see if you know of anyone who has a recommendation for a watch repair store.

No matter where you visit for your watch repair, the result should be the same. You should be 100% satisfied with the function and look of your watch following repair.

Finding Great Scrapbooking Ideas

Are you an avid scrapper always looking for new scrapbooking ideas? Are you bored with your current layout ideas and you need some serious inspiration to make the next book and the next page look better than the rest? This is something that a lot of individuals who are into scrapbooking struggle with from time to time. It's easy when scrapping to fall into a rut and continue to use the same layouts and decorative touches over and over again. If you need a bit of inspiration you can find it in a variety of places including the library, the bookstore, scrapping classes, and even on the Internet.

There are a lot of scrapbooking ideas out there that can help you change things up a bit. Perhaps you just need some new layout ideas, or you need to start using stamps, stickers, colored pens, templates, colored paper, or fun scissors. A lot of the time you can just visit your local scrapbooking store and you'll come up with some new methods that will change your approach to scrapping altogether. Just one little change in method can make scrapping fun for you again or at least make your books more interesting to look at!

The Internet is a great place to look for new methods to employ when you are scrapping, but you have to keep skill level in mind. If you are just starting out, you need to be careful that you build your skills slowly and that you do not try to jump ahead or you may get frustrated. A lot of the direction you will find on the Internet is geared toward those with more experience, so it can be difficult to discover good tips online if you are a beginner. Scrapbooking ideas are a dime a dozen, you just have to be sure that you keep in line with your skill level and simply try new things when you have mastered other methods. Remember to have fun with it, and not to be too rigid or hard on yourself, as you may find that you are naturally good at some designs while not so great at others in the beginning.

Finding Great Deals On Dollhouse Miniatures

Finding a bargain on a great piece is part of the joy of collecting miniatures for many enthusiasts. It's not everyday that you stumble across a dollhouse furniture sale in your own neighborhood, so you have to know where to look. It may not seem like it when you first get started and are only looking at the catalogues of major suppliers since everything that you find there will be full price, but with a little practice and a few inside leads, you can find ways to make dollhouses affordable.

Surfing the web is the perfect place to find deals or discounted dollhouse furniture. While many manufacturers have a print catalogue you can browse and order from, they often also have a website where they may put items on sale. Older models of furniture, overstocks, and clearance items can go for far less than the original asking price. Some miniature collectible sellers offer a price-match guarantee for mass-produced items. You may be able to accumulate a nice discount by visiting several sites and using the price-match guarantee to your advantage.

Auction sites such as Ebay are perfect for finding dollhouse furniture pieces. Finding rarer pieces might be easier on these sites, or you can take advantage of someone selling off their own collection to jump-start your own. Ebay and other similar sites also often have brand new kits at lower prices than manufacturers. If bidding gets too expensive for your tastes, you always have control over what you spend and can stop bidding at any time.

If you're lucky enough to find a garage sale that offers dollhouse furniture or a collection of miniatures, you could find some real rock bottom prices. If there is one or two items you want out of the whole batch, you may find that you'll get a better price for taking the lot of furniture off the seller's hands. They may be anxious to clear off their table and get rid of what they consider junk, which leaves you fortunate and getting a real bargain.

Estate sales are another place where you can find discount dollhouse furniture. Generally, these collections are auctioned off in lots, and occasionally as entire collections. Regardless, most estate sales open their doors to the public for a period before the actually auction begins. This will give you the opportunity to peruse the collection and to get a good idea of what it is worth, and in turn, determine what you are willing to spend. Estate sales can be a great way to increase the size of your collection in one day's worth of shopping.

Finding Good Gold Jewelry

There is one item that women and the rest of the public find fashionable regardless of what the recent craze or fad is. Women across history have worn it to enhance their natural beauty, or as a vital complement to what they are wearing. Through the centuries, women have appreciated the capabilities of gold jewelry in turning heads, or in expressing a certain status.

A person's love for jewelry is apparent now as it was a thousand years ago. Jewelry has been traded for and bought countless times in the past, and as mentioned, it has never gone out of style. The actual process of purchasing jewelry is a little bit more confusing that buying regular items. People have the tendency of purchasing jewelry without going beyond knowing the fact that it would look good on them when they buy it. It does pay off to know a little bit more about jewelry.

You may instantly relate gold to jewelry. Although it is used for many other purposes, it is almost always associated to jewelry. In this industry, gold is actually defined as pure, 24 karat gold. In this pure form, gold is soft and delicate. Usually, jewelers would integrate other precious metals into 24 karat gold to make the final product a more durable piece of jewelry.

The integration of other metals into 24 karat gold has some visually appealing effects as well. Jewelers add nickel into pure gold to make white gold. They add a small amount of copper into pure gold too, and this results in a more feminine, pink tint. Adding predetermined amounts of silver can also give gold a greenish tint.

The rule there is, if a piece of jewelry has a lower karat quality, it has higher durability since it is harder. Check the color to have an idea of what was mixed into the gold. You can ask a vendor regarding the karat quality of his or her wares, but if you have a chance, try looking for any markings regarding this property. Many prominent jewelry companies would place a products karat quality on it. You should see a trademark accompanying the karat quality; if you don't, you might want to consider looking for another piece of jewelry.

Do not confuse gold jewelry with gold-plated jewelry. As the name implies, this usually composes of a metal of lesser value plated or covered with gold through mechanical bonding or through electroplating. Genuine gold jewelry should include an indication or an accompanying marking of its karat quality.

It is normal for people to wear gold-plated jewelry occasionally, leaving the higher-priced pieces for special events. This is because gold plated jewelry is lighter than their purer counterparts. However, if you plan on buying a piece of gold-plated jewelry, remember that the layer of gold will eventually wear off sooner or later, depending on the quality and thickness of the gold plate. Since gold is held with such high regard, one should know these things before making a gold jewelry purchase.

Finding Antique Clocks And Watches

Germany Staiger Alarm Clock... Elgin National Pocket Watch... Seth Thomas Mantle Clock... 

What do the above have in common? Well, besides being timekeepers, all of them are examples of old, vintage, and antique clocks and watches. 

Antique clocks and watches were made using different materials, designs, styles, and sizes long, long ago. The ability to accurately identify and research on this antique clocks and watches are important then because of the diversity, as well as the number, of clock and watchmakers and manufacturers around the world. 

If we are going to trace the history of clocks and watches, we would be back to the late 14th century when the first clock was made. In the early years, as well as many centuries over, mechanical clocks and watches were so uncommon and made by few that only rulers and noblemen had such. The common people, especially those in Europe, have to rely on the few public clocks that are existent. 

The majority of clocks and watches made from the 15th to the middle of the 17th century are now mostly in museums and a small percentage in different individuals' private collection. Most people will never set eyes on these timekeepers nor will be able to recognize them. 

Many antique clock and watch collectors would agree that periods in history greatly influenced the materials and styles of clocks and watches, such that these timekeepers were not only used for time measurement, but as decoration as well. Also, they were made with such high quality that with proper care and maintenance, they are apt to last several centuries. 


There are several things that you may take into consideration if you are a collector or just a one time buyer of an antique clock or watch - besides the fact that it should be interesting, beautiful, befitting your needs or you want it to be a part of your life and home for many years. 

Any changes made on them will diminish the value of the antique clock or watch. 

•    Rarity. Common sense dictates that the rarity of anything brings value. To determine rarity, research is required, which may be costly and time consuming. When done, however, it may result into identification of clocks and watches that have excellent value. 

•    Provenance. Determining the origin of the timepiece, like rarity, can affect the value of the clock or watch greatly. This also is done through research and documentation. 

The values of clocks and watches range from a few to several thousand dollars, though there are those that amount to a million or so. Determining a timepiece's value, however, can only be done if the four areas mentioned above are well looked into or researched. You must search, therefore, for an authority that is honest and with integrity to help you before making a purchase.

Finding Antique Chairs To Cherish

Antique chairs often are some of the most difficult types of antiques to find. Although there are many different styles and characters that come out in them, there are also many reasons why these chairs should be found and kept. No matter from what age they came from, they have a rich history to tell. Just imagine who sat in them, what they talked about and what their lives were like. Just imagine the history that they've seen pass by them. Most importantly, look at the materials, the details and the small bits of information about life in their time.

If you own an antique chair, you should have the piece insured as well as protected. With the right type of protection, it can last for many years to come giving the same information and details it gives you now.

But, what if you don't own an antique chair but would like to? There are a number of ways that you can go about finding on. Simply, use your creative ideas to find new ways to find the information you need. For one, never forget about online auction sites. Yes, there is that big one but there are also plenty of smaller ones and even those that specialize in antiques. Just search for them.

Don't forget the garage sales either. Talk to older relatives and neighbors. They may know of others that are having estate sales or they may even be willing to part with something they own for a price.

Antique chairs do more than just add a bit of value to your pocketbook. They provide stories and entertainment. They also provide a lot of character to your home. With a bit of care for the details, you can true cherish all that they can offer to you today and well into the future.

Finding A Tattoo Artist - Important Questions To Ask

If you want to get the perfect tattoo, choosing the right artist is just as important as finding the right design. After all, a poor quality artist will take your perfect design and ruin it...permanently.

So here's a list of the most important questions to ask your tattoo artist. Don't feel bad or awkward about asking any of these questions. Tattoo artists will have heard them all before and true professionals will be only too happy to give you honest, open answers.

1) How long have you been a tattoo artist?

This is an important part of working out the strength of a tattoo artist's reputation. In general, the longer they've been in the business, the more experience they'll have and the better their reputation. Artists with a bad reputation don't tend to last that long.

2) What are your qualifications?

As with all professional trades it's important that tattoo artists are properly qualified. Tattooing is a precision job that involves the use of needles, so it's vital that a tattoo artist has been professionally trained and has a thorough knowledge of hygiene procedures.

3) How many tattoos have you done?

This is a good indication of an artist's level of skill and experience. Tattooing is an art, and the more designs a person has created, the better they're likely to be. The answer to this question also allows you to work out roughly how busy the artist has been, which is again closely linked to their popularity and reputation.

4) Can I see some of your previous work? Can you provide references?

Top quality artists will be able to provide you with pictures of their work and references from previous clients that they have worked on. But make sure that you see their work once it has healed properly to give you an accurate idea of what it looks like.

An artist who doesn't have a portfolio of their work or appears evasive when you ask these questions should be avoided at all costs.

5) How much will the work cost?

Large tattoos that are full of intricate detail can be extremely expensive, often running into thousands of dollars. Even smaller designs can cost over a hundred dollars. So if you're on a tight budget, make sure that you agree on the full cost of your chosen tattoo before work begins. This will avoid any nasty surprises or misunderstandings.

6) Do you guarantee your work?

What happens if you're not happy with the completed design? Will they drop the charge, or just reduce it? Do they have a refund policy? Make sure you find out your artist's guarantee policy before work begins as it will have a bearing on the quality of after sale service that you receive.

7) How long will the tattoo take?

This depends upon the size of your chosen design and the level of intricacy. Ultra small tattoos may take a matter of minutes to complete, while a full sleeve design may take several hours spread over a number of sessions. But if it's your first tattoo, it's important to know as much about the procedure as possible so that you feel more relaxed about it.

8) How should I care for my tattoo during the healing process?

Aftercare is an important part of the overall tattoo process. Poor aftercare can damage your tattoo design, lead to scarring of your skin and increase the chance of an infection developing. So all competent artists should be able to give you detailed instructions on how to care for your tattoo during the healing process. If they seem more interested in getting the tattoo started, go find another more responsible tattoo artist.

9) How can I reduce the chances of an infection occurring?

All tattoo artists should be able to give you advice that will help you to keep your tattoo clean and reduce the risk of infection. They'll also be able to advise you what to do if you think that an infection is developing.

10) Are there any medical conditions that can prevent a person from getting a tattoo?

Certain medical conditions mean that individuals should either avoid tattoos completely or take certain precautions prior to being tattooed. Your tattoo artist should be able to give you general advice on this matter. However, if you have any doubts about the effects of a tattoo upon your health, please consult a suitably qualified medical practitioner.

Finding A Movie Collectible Item

If you are a movie collectible buff, you can feel assured in knowing that there are many locations available which offer a multitude of movie collectible items. The most important thing to remember is to make sure that the company you are interested in buying from has a respected reputation, so that you will not be getting ripped off.

What Are Movie Collectibles?

Movie collectibles can consist of many different things. There is no exact rule and documentation which states exactly what is a collectible and what is not, although typically the older the item the more of a collectible it will be. Basically, if it is a popular movie, it will also be considered as a collectible.

Of course, the actors and actresses who starred in the movies are a big part of what makes them a collectible item. For instance, certain pop culture icons such as Elvis, Marilyn Monroe, and James Dean are sure to make any item considered as a collectible.

When looking for movie memorabilia to add to your collection, one of the most important factors is to try and focus on what you really like, as no one can truly accurately predict what will become valuable in the future. Although popularity is a prime issue in collectibles, you should buy things that you will enjoy storing and displaying in your home, and the cardinal rule of collecting movie memorabilia is that you should always go for quality rather than quantity when buying.

Where to Buy Movie Collectible Items

Otherland Toys is an incredibly popular company which offers a vast array of movie collectible items, as is Books and Collectibles which is a company that offers rare antique vintage movie collectible items. MCW Online is a store which offers numerous movie collectibles, and they are considered as being the world's leading publication for collectors of movie memorabilia.

They have currently published over 697 consecutive issues, and they are published every month, 12 times yearly, with each tabloid issue featuring page after page of advertising from reputable and dependable dealers and collectors.

Regardless of where you actually end up deciding to purchase from, the most important thing to remember is to take some time and careful consideration before making any final decisions on a company or personal seller, so that you can be sure the company or seller is reputable, and that you will not be getting scammed or ripped off.

Finding A Good Knife Sharpener

Knife sharpening has always been one of the most important parts of tool maintenance, even dating back to the when the first primitive tool was made. In Colonial times, a grist mill was many times the first building to be set up when a new settlement was formed. This is because pioneers knew that without sharp tools, the building processed would be a very slow process.

Sharpening tools today are based on the same physics as the old grist mills and whet stones but a little more advanced and with a lot power. For instance, grinding wheels once powered by water wheels are now zapped with electricity to speed up the sharpening process dramatically. It now takes only a fraction of the time to properly sharpen its tools. A knife sharpener can come in several forms. The bench top grinder, for example, is good for sharpening axe blades and gardening tools.
 
It is important to keep your tools sharp for purposes of quality and safety. Chain saws need to be sharpened often to ensure a quality cut and, consequently, greater safety when cutting. An abrasive end to a long drill-bit attachment is inserted into the drill and tightened, and the drill quickly rotates the end as the saw blade is held against it. When choosing the best sharpener for your chain saw, look for a sharpener that comes with multiple tips since the tips will wear out quickly.

Tormek manufacturers a knife and scissor sharpener that is a bench top grinder with water which helps to reduce friction. The grinder comes with a complete package including a leather strop, though some users recommend a paper wheel to hone and stop the edges of the knife.

Versatility is the most important item to look for in a knife sharpener. It should be able to sharpen longer knife blades and strop the edges adequately. You should also consider whether or not the replacement parts are easy to obtain. These are all things that should be considered to ensure that you are getting everything you need, especially considering knife sharpeners appropriate for heavy duty maintenance can cost up to thousands of dollars.

Heavy duty grinding wheels and chains saw sharpeners are, of course, for the serious woodworkers and landscapers. For all others, there is a wide variety of less expensive and more portable sharpening tools available. The handheld sharpener you would find in a butcher shop is a basic tool requiring no electricity. Other variations include the wheeled knife sharpeners in which the blade is drawn between two hard wheels. Abrasive materials are drawn against a knife at about a thirty degree angle, and this is done whether it is electric and manual. Regardless of manual or electric, you can still get a quality sharpening. At the heart of how sharp a tool can become is the skill of the knife owner at angling and stopping the blade. Knife sharpening classes and educational courses are offered, which may be a good idea if having the sharpest tool in the shed is important to you.

Finding A Ghost Rider Movie Poster

If you collect movie posters, you know that some of them are harder to find than others, and you also know that there are many ways to find the things that you are looking for, both online and offline. If you are looking for a Ghost Rider movie poster, chances are good that you have probably explored your options as far as how to find them. However, there are some things that you might not have thought of.

When you are looking for something like a Ghost Rider movie poster there are two main places that you can go. First of all, you can try to find one at the movie stores and the other places that sell collectible items in your home town or places near you. This is going to be the first thing you should try. Next, you should look online, where you can find just about anything, including a Ghost Rider movie poster.

Check Out Stores

The reason that you should look for a Ghost Rider movie poster at stores first is that you might be able to find one close to you and so you'll be able to take it right home without having to get it shipped to you. If you can find one at a place that is close to you, where you won't need to get it shipped and where you can bring it home, this is going to be your best bet because if you buy a Ghost Rider movie poster in this way you don't have to worry about it being damaged as you bring it home. This happens often with shipping, so look offline at places near you for your Ghost Rider movie poster first. Then, if you can't find one, move to the online sources.

Online Is Next

When you are ready to start searching online, remember that you should look for a Ghost Rider movie poster in all of the different sites that you can find. You never know which sites are going to have the best Ghost Rider movie poster for your needs, so be sure that you are checking them all out. You are going to want to look at several of them online, and you are going to want to pick the one for the best price that appears to be the least amount damaged. Then, you want to make sure that you get a good deal on shipping so that you aren't going to end up with something that is damaged in the mail.

Find The Perfect Picture Frame

Picture Frames

If you have a picture that you love, then it's amazing how much better it can look given the right frame. Pictures can say so much more than words, given the right presentation. A photo or picture frame, as well as being decorative, is meant to protect and highlight its contents. It's possible to take a magnificent work of art and reduce it to nothing by giving it a frame in the wrong materials, but it's also possible to turn the tables and turn an average picture into a masterpiece.

Finding the right frame can be difficult, so it's important that you allow plenty of time to the search. Most standard size photo frames are relatively inexpensive, and they're stocked by a large range of shops. This means it's easy to look at a whole range of possible frames in a fairly short amount of time. As you look around, you'll find there are frames that instantly appeal to you, and that's a good sign. That particular frame probably connects with your personality in some way, and so will give your framed photo an extremely personal feel.

You can buy photo frames made in a whole range of materials, with some of the most popular frames being made from pewter, stainless steel, ceramics, composites and crystal. Look for the best design and material that fits your budget. Examine the decor of your home, and choose a frame that matches. Contemporary homes blend best with dark frames, using strong materials like silver, copper or gold, or plain dark colors like black. If your home has more of a Mediterranean feel, then pale blue or white will go best. Ornate gilded frames match beautifully with antiques, and for a child's room look for plastic frames made with bright colors and fun shapes.

Pictures aren't always made to a standard size, which can make them difficult to frame. It's possible that a professional framer might be necessary to get something custom made. If you've never been to a framer's before, you may find the huge variety of shapes, colors and materials a little daunting. So it's a good idea to have a clear picture of what you want to achieve. What's the style of the room where the picture will be located? Do you want the frame to stand out or the picture? Take care not to overwhelm a special picture with a bright, wide frame.

If you've spent some time thinking about what sort of effect you want to achieve for your picture, then choosing the right frame shouldn't be too difficult. Take a look at all the options, and choose something that appeals to you. After all, you'll undoubtedly be looking at the picture and its frame for many years to come.

Find Color Inspiration For Your Scrapbooking Page Layouts

Do you think you need to know color theory to make a beautiful scrapbooking page?  You don't even need to know the difference between primary and secondary colors to create a page that complements your photographs.  All you need to find color inspiration for your layouts is a watchful eye during your everyday life. Color palettes are all around us.  Consider these easy-to-find resources for color choices on your next scrapbooking pages.

Your Favorite Clothing Store
Clothing manufacturers design their seasonal lines according to a predetermined color scheme.  Ever wonder why all the stores seem to carry similar colors each season?  Many designers use the color direction provided by the Color Marketing Group.  The Color Marketing Group forecasts color trends for manufactured products.  Walking around your favorite clothing boutique quickly shows you the color trends for the current season.  Are pastels in this season?  Try a page with pastels even if it's not spring. 

Your Closets
Along the same lines as using a clothing store for inspiration, your own closets hold the color palettes for past seasons.  Don't limit yourself to just your clothes closet.  Your linen closet will also have coordinated color palettes to inspire you.  Love that quilt that you have tucked away for the guest room?  Look carefully at the colors and see if you can create a scrapbooking page with the same color qualities.

Paint Chips
Would you believe that you can find professional color schemes at your local home improvement store?  Paint manufacturers coordinate colors in sample decorating palettes.  These chips are often designed by professionals like Martha Stewart and Ralph Lauren.  Browse through the paint chip display and use one of the palettes for a scrapbooking page or even an entire album.

Museums
Take an afternoon to walk through an art museum, and you will see how the Masters use color.  Make some notes on what paintings inspire you the most and what colors are used to set the mood of the painting.  Artists know color theory, and reflecting on their masterpieces is an education in color theory without the textbooks.

Mother Nature
The earth provides its own color palette.  Not only can you gain inspiration from the colors of winter, summer, spring and fall, you can study landscapes.  These are earth's paintings.  Look at the colors of the desert and mountains, as well as, the sunsets and sunrises.  Peek out your window at your flower garden for even more of nature's inspiration.

Your Makeup Drawer
Makeup manufacturers also use color theory to develop their seasonal palettes.  Take a look at your eye shadows and blushes for ready-made color selections for your scrapbooking pages.

Home Decorating Magazines
Color inspiration doesn't just come from scrapbooking magazines.  Interior designers use coordinating colors to make it easier for customers to create a perfect decor for their homes.  The photographs in home decorating magazines are sure to inspire a creative scrapbooking page.

Advertisements
Before you put those magazines away, take a closer look at the advertisements.  Companies pay millions of dollars to ad agencies to design advertisements that will capture the eye of its customers before they flip the page.  Ads can provide no-fail color schemes for your scrapbooking.  An added bonus of advertisements is that they not only provide great inspiration for colors, but their layouts are an education in design theory, as well.

Color palettes are everywhere.  Next time you need some color inspiration, take a creative look around you.  Keep an idea journal with notes, clips from magazines and paint chips.  Tired of the same old red and green on your Christmas pictures?  Use your holiday sweaters to inspire you.  There is no end to the number of color palettes you can find for your scrapbooking pages.

Find Animal Dolls For Your Child

Doll is seen as the most favourite toys for children. Both classic and electronic dolls have their own pro and cons. Particularly for animal dolls that has variety of all kind of animal. We have to admit that animal is the first thing that children will knoe for the first stage of learning. A lot of practice and lesson, start from using animal as a symbol like A B C, which always represent in the type of animal. Therefore, children will have first impression and appreciation of animal at the first stage of learning. According to this reason, it is will be very common that they will looking for animal toys and animal dolls have become to their favorite type. However, some children has very much appreciation of animal dolls and they start to collect them as a hobby so we can imagine that they will enjoy of having al kind of them in the collection.

Collecting Animal Dolls Is A Great Hobby

The animal dolls are the dolls, which resembles the structure of the animals. The animals with the specific breeds are inherited in the dolls and it provides an attractive look to the animal dolls. The materials like artificial fur and other synthetic materials make the doll to be realistic. The passion of collecting the dolls will make the children to collect their favorite dolls in the market. The collection of the dolls makes the child to have the pleasure and improves the habit of collecting new things everyday in life.

Types Of Dolls

The dolls that are given to a child at the early stage makes the child to be happy and it takes care of the doll with great efforts. It treats the doll as the pet and provides fun in playing with the doll. The animal dolls make the child to look it as a virtual animal where the child cannot fear about the animals. They can care the animal doll and can start collecting their favorite animal dolls in the market. The other dolls are decorative dolls, baby dolls, and fashion dolls. The collection of dolls differs from each individual and they even learn the method of creating new dolls. However, we may not have no idea that what kind of dolls that will be created and developed in the future, so just to make sure that they will get the most of their favorite.

Collecting The Doll As A Hobby

An independent research reveals that the collection of dolls is considered as the second biggest hobby in the United States. The collection of dolls depends upon the individual and should be collected according to the personal taste. With the advent of the Internet, an individual can purchase a variety of dolls in the Internet and can purchase it from the home. The doll collection is a great hobby for the children and it continues till in the adult stage. It makes the individual to leave from the adult stage and provides the chance of enjoying the childhood again.

Fight Night Round 3 For The Xbox 360

    EA Sport's Fight Night Round 3 is hands down the greatest boxing game ever. EA's King of the Ring series that was before Fight Night series tended to be a disappointment every year. Fight Night 3 is the culmination of the corrections made to the earlier Fight Night games. The graphics are amazing up to the point where you can see beads of sweat dripping off the guys foreheads. It also has realistic facial damage that you can see during the corner cut games in between rounds. However, I will say the controls of Fight Night 3 are at best hard to get used to. Since the game heavily discourages button mashing, you will not find much action in the button department. All of the punches are controlled by the right stick. The achievements in Xbox 360 version of this game should be pretty easy for anyone to get all 1000 points. This doesn't mean you won't go back and play the game because you will not have really mastered many of the punches by the time you have gotten all 1000 pts. This will allow you to go back and learn something new every time you play.

One feature I really liked about this game was in fight mini games that can be started by hitting you opponent with one of you haymaker punches. This sends you opponent into an instant daze where he is eligible to be knocked down or it will start a mini game from your opponents point of view at which time you can down you opponent with a well placed haymaker. You probably wont see many of these mini games when you first play the game. The move is difficult to learn and will take you awhile to learn how to pull it off.

Fiction And Folk - Making Filk Music Together

The word "Filk" is a combination of "fiction" and "folk." Filk music originated as songs composed by dedicated film or TV fans, usually relating to science fiction and fantasy programming. The word originated in the '50s in an article about the practice of science fiction fans singing self-created songs while meeting at conventions geared for the sci-fi and fantasy fan.

While the practice goes back to the fifties, it has developed a genre and following that continues to this day on the Internet and at social gatherings attended by "filkers." By the late seventies there were weekend conventions focused solely on filkers and filking. Websites and events have formed around what has become a cultural phenomenon and while there may be no established stars working in the genre, there are award programs for "Excellence in Filking" and a Filk Hall of Fame.

Today the world of filking remains essentially true to its origins: science fiction and fantasy fans singing together at gatherings. They are drawn from the worlds of Star Trek, Battlestar Gallactica, Star Wars and games such as Dungeons and Dragons. Song topics can cover any aspect of the sci-fi world: computers, homesteads on Mars, space battles and time travel. Those gatherings may be completely devoted to filking today and may include an entire range of talent, from highly accomplished musicians to the amateur science fiction fan who only wishes to raise his or her voice.

Through email lists and websites, filkers have opened up lines of communications and organizations that reach into other countries and continents. The concept of the musical product had expanded somewhat, although not without debate. Songs of an anarchic or nonsensical bent dealing with familiar social phenomena have been referred to as filk tunes; there has been an ongoing discussion among purists as to whether or not Weird Al Yankovic qualifies as a filker. A good resource for Filk FAQs and other websites can be found at http://www.electricpenguin.com/filking/columns/filkfaq/.

Filking can also be identified as simply the social network that has evolved around the original practice. The electronic tools at hand for maintaining that network are part of the current definition of the filk community. The websites with songs, lyrics and musical tools posted are an important part of the community's binding. It's also fair to say that openness characterizes the filker movement, or community, or organization. It's not your ability to sing that qualifies you, it's your enthusiasm for the process and perhaps your appreciation of the disassociation with social norms that the songs represent.

Filking remains, for the most part, the folk music of the science fiction and fantasy fan set. Some songs are bawdy, many are parodies of original mainstream works, and nearly all are performed on acoustic instruments to the uniform applause of other gathered filkers. There are CDs out there these days and a plethora of MP3 files to be found on many Internet sites. There are perhaps eight gatherings a year held around the nation that are dedicated exclusively to filking.

There is another form of purity to the art form, other than its unique music. It is far enough off center that no one has found a way to build a business model for it and filking remains the personal creations and sole property of filkers.