Saturday, February 28, 2009

Statistics Auto Safety

Statistical Facts:

? Rollover crashes kill one of every four people who die in automobile accidents (1).

? Rollovers tend to occur when a vehicle runs off a road and turns over at least on its side (1).

? Sport-utility vehicles account for 17 of the 20 vehicles with the greatest risk of rollover (1).

? Three SUVs, the Chevrolet Tracker, the Suzuki Vitara and the Toyota RAV4 are most likely to roll over in more than four of every 10 accidents (1).

? The least likely SUV to roll over is the Ford Excursion (1).

? The vehicles that are least likely to turn over are the Bentley and Rolls-Royce, possessing a 1% chance of rolling over in accidents (1).

? Minivans can be expected to roll over 10% to 17.9% of the time in an accident (1).

? The 2005 Ford Explorer Sport Trac has the greatest chance of roll over out of SUVs in a single vehicle crash at 34%. The 2005 Chevrolet Tahoe 4-DR and the 2005 GMC Yukon 4-DR have a 28% chance of rollover in a single vehicle crash (2).

? The 2005 Chrysler Pacifica 4-DR w/SAB and the 2005 Ford Freestyle 5-DR have the smallest chance of rollover out of SUVs in a single vehicle crash at 13% (2).

? The 2005 Ford Ranger 2-Dr, the 2005 Ford Ranger

Extended Cab, the 2005 Mazda B-Series Extended Cab and the 2005 Mazda B-Series 2-DR have the greatest chance of rollover out of pickups in a single vehicle crash at 30% (2).

? The 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 2-DR, the 2005 Chevrolet Silverado 4-DR, the 2005 GMC Sierra 2-DR, and the 2005 GMC Sierra 4-Dr have the smallest chance of rollover out of pickups in a single vehicle crash at 15% (2).

? The 2005 Ford E-150 has the greatest chance of rollover out of vans in a single vehicle crash at 29% (2).

? The 2005 Nissan Quest Van w/ SAB has the smallest chance of rollover out of vans in a single vehicle crash at 12% (2).

? The 2005 Pontiac Vibe 4-DR, the 2005 Subaru Forester 4-DR w/SAB, the 2005 Toyota Matrix 4-DR, and the 2005 Toyota Scion xA 4-DR Hatchback have the greatest chance of rollover out of passenger cars in a single vehicle crash at 15% (2).

? The 2005 Mazda Miata/Mx-5 Convertible and the 2005 Mazda RX-8 4-DR w/SAB have the smallest chance of rollover out of passenger cars in a single vehicle crash at 7% (2).

? There are nearly 2 million injury-causing automobile crashes each year (3).

? The majority of injury-causing automobile crashes are either frontal or side crashes (3).

? More than 10,000 people die each year in rollover crashes (3).

? Safety belts can reduce the chance of being killed in a rollover by 75 percent (3).

? The purpose of safety belts is to keep a person inside of a vehicle and reduce the risk of hitting the steering wheel, dashboard, or windshield (3).

? The Anti-lock Brake System prevents the wheels of a vehicle from locking, enabling the driver to have greater steering control (3).

? Electronic Stability Control (ESC) helps allow drivers to control their vehicles during extreme steering maneuvers (3).

? A tire is severely underinflated if its pressure is 25 percent below the vehicle manufacturer?s recommended tire inflation pressure (3).

? Frontal air bags do not eliminate the need for safety belts and typically do not offer protection for rollovers, side-impact, or rear-end crashes (3).

? More than 5,000 people are killed each year in large truck-related crashes (4).

? More than 110,000 people are injured in large truck-related crashes each year (4).

? Fatalities among motorcycle riders have increased by more than 89% since 1997 (5).

? Motorcyclists are about 21 times as likely as passenger car occupants to die in a traffic crash and four times as likely to be injured (5).

? Motorcycle helmets reduce the risk of death by 29% and are 67% effective in preventing brain injuries for motorcycle riders (5).

? Motor vehicle crashes are the leading cause of death for all Americans ages two to 33 (6).

? 117 people are killed daily in motor vehicle crashes (6).

? Over 500 children under the age of four, 487 children between the ages of four to seven and more than 1,600 children ages eight to fifteen were killed in motor vehicle crashes (6).

? Occupant rollover deaths accounted for 10,553 fatalities in 2006 (6).

? SUV rollover deaths increased by nearly ten percent between 2005 and 2006 (6).

? Motorcycle deaths have increased by 89% since 1997 and by 8% since 2005 (6).

? More than half of those killed in motor vehicle crashes in 2004 were not protected by a seat belt (6).

? Motor vehicle crashes cost an estimated $230 billion annually in property and productivity loss, medical and emergency bills and other related costs (6).

? Every American effectively pays a crash tax of $792 each year to cover the cost of motor vehicle crashes (6).

? Seat belts are credited with preventing 11,900 deaths and 325,00 serious injuries annually (6).

? 55% of passengers who were killed in automobile accidents were not wearing seat belts (6).

? The use of belt-positioning booster seats lowers the risk of injury to children in crashes by 59% compared to the use of vehicle seat belts (6).

? In over 5,000 child passenger deaths more than 60% of the children who were killed were riding in the car driven by an impaired driver (6).


Cited Sources:

1. Stoller, Gary (2000). Formula Predicts Rollover Risk. Retrieved on May 18, 2006 from http://www.autosafety.org/article.php?did=779&scid=175

2. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2005). Model Year 2005 Rollover Ratings. Retrieved May 18, 2006 from http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/testing/NCAP/RollRatings2.cfm

3. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. (2006). Buying a Safer Car. Retrieved on May 18, 2006 from http://www.nhtsa.dot.gov/cars/testing/NCAP/BASC2006/index.htm

4. Public Citizen. (February 2006). Trucker Hours-of-Service Rule Creates Hazard, Allows Drivers on Road for Too Many Hours, Safety Groups and Teamsters Tell Court. Retrieved on May 18, 2006 from http://www.saferoads.org/press/press2006/HOSpressrelease022706.pdf

5. Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. (2005). Fact Sheet: Motorcycle Helmets. Retrieved on May 18, 2006 from http://www.saferoads.org/issues/fs-helmets.htm

6. Advocates for Highway and Auto Safety. (2006). 2006 Roadmap to State Highway Safety Laws. Retrieved on May 18, 2006 from http://www.saferoads.org/Roadmap2006.pdf


About the Author:

Sandra Worthington, Attorney at Law, obtained her law degree from Temple University in 1983. She is licensed by the Pennsylvania Bar and practices exclusively in the area of personal injury work. For more information go to The Worthington Law Group.




Friday, February 27, 2009

2007 Residential Real Estate Forecast

In many ways 2006 was the non-year for real estate. The National Association of Realtors(R) reported that sales will be down in 2006 about 9 percent from 2005, a record setting year.Many markets waited for spring market which was disappointing. Markets then believed buyers would re-group in summer,and buyers were a no-show. Fall and last market hopes were dashed when fall came and went, with plenty of traffic at open houses, but few contracts.

Pent-up demand from a lackluster 2006 should drive buyers back to market. But, these savvy buyers will be on the lookout for realistic prices and seller give-backs. Most buyers will tell you point-blank that their income gains in the last five years have not matched rises in home home prices. Real estate markets won't bounce back until home sellers realize as prices go up, the pool of buyers shrinks proportionately. Buyers with a home to sell will include a home-sale contingency, so sellers should be prepared to accept one.

Inventory levels will remain in the six to seven moth range. Listing leftover's from 2006, will roll into 2007. The leftovers are either un-realistic sellers whose pricing is from the froth years or thier homes haven't been updated to keep up with the stiff competition and time-starved buyers.

Mortgage rates will remain in the 5.5% to 7% range. Historically low, but low rates by themselves haven't motivated buyers to write real estate contracts in 2006.

Foreclosures will rise. Risky loans such as Interest-Only, Option ARM's and 100% financing will tap out buyers whose used these appreciation-oriented mortgages.

Prices will drop 4-10% before leveling off in the majority of non-seller's markets. Homes that are priced right and are in good condition which offer features and finishes that buyers demand, will sell close to list price in moderate market times. Flat or negative appreciation.

Florida, Arizona, California and Washington D.C., will have unstable markets. Until sellers get a reality-oriented wake-up call markets in these locales will sputter and hiccup.

Ten states posted solid sales gains in the second quarter of 2006 versus 2005. Reported the National Association of Realtors(R). The gains ranged from an impressive 48% in Alaska to a low of 5.3 percent in Georgia. The other eight states included Arkansas, Texas, North and South Carolina, Vermont, Tennessee, New Mexico, and Wyoming.

Residential real estate will return to being viewed as shelter and housing and trend away from being viewed as a speculative investment.

What about 2008? Stable, pre-frenzy market with appreciation at 1% annually.

Mark Nash, is a residential real estate author, broker, columnist and writer based in Chicago. His fourth book 1001 Tips for Buying and Selling a Home received eighteen five star reviews on Amazon.com. His latest book; Real Estate A-Z for Buying & Selling a Home will be published in December 2006. Mark publishes a free monthly ezine for real estate professionals. Agent to Agent features ten articles that offer free reprints for agents, home buyers and sellers through EzineArticles.com . Real estate news and book reviews, Celebrity Homestyles, Home selling and buying tips and advice, Joke-of-the-Month, Help this Agent, and agent marketing tips. Over 5000 subscribers in the U.S. & Canada. Subscribe at: http://www.1001realestatetips.com/forrealestateagents.html

Thursday, February 26, 2009

Backpacks The Anywhere Lifestyle Bags

The mountain hardwear backpacks took a numbers of beatings and years to convert from packsack and Knapsack, as they were called till the early 20 century. But backpacks have a variety of utilities that have evolved through times. They are handy to carry baseball gloves or high value laptops to just about anything.

All the currently available backpack brands, including Osprey, The North Face or even the Dakine and Camelbak backpacks, stress more on comfort and style while not letting down holding capacity. All of them offer features/utilities fit for camping. Although size can be chosen to suit your needs, look out for things such as the inbuilt aluminum frame and comfortable hip belts etc. There are assortments of camping gears such as sleeping pads which can be removed to increase hold capacity. Over all, the bag lets you carry a sleeping bag, easy access pockets on side and front, water bottle holds and what not.

Buying backpacks needs some cool headed thinking. The ?packs' can hold all being the biggest but may not be exactly the thing you are looking at. Here are some tips to you before you set out to buy backpacks.

1. Carrying binders, books etc to school should be able to be taken care of by school backpacks. Mountain hardwear and the North face easily do the job.

2. Osprey and Mountain hardwear offer just the thing for climbing enthusiasts.

3. There are women specific backpacks too, to hold snow shoes, durables, and custom fit options for women from Osprey, Camelbak and mountain hardwear etc

4. There are hydration backpacks of varying container volumes suitable for kids to youth. This is convenient on a long sunny day hitch hiking trip. You can quench thirst on the go directly from the bag through the tube attached to the top.

5. Organize utility articles like travel clock, travel totes, toiletry bags and converters into convenient eagle creek backpacks.

Alevoor Rajagopal is an MBA. He can be contacted at My Site

He is also writing on Career Matters


Wednesday, February 25, 2009

Mortgage Marketing How to Find Your Niche

Your success in the mortgage industry is dependent on you becoming an expert. A mortgage marketing plan built around a niche helps you become one.

For instance, if you were remodeling a kitchen with top of the line appliances, would you go to a high end appliance store or a discount department store?

The department store will offer you all kinds of appliances, as well as tools, clothes, etc. while the high end appliance store is an expert at their products. The high end store has a reputation with being cutting edge and finding the best available appliances. And that reputation is well deserved.

With a reputation for excellence, these high end stores don?t have to spend time cold calling for clients. Instead, new prospects seek them out to do business with them. These businesses have successfully found their niche and they are reaping the profit of being positioned as experts.

It?s not difficult to become an expert. It?s possible that you are already on your way. You become an expert when you combine repetition with disciplined research, self-study, continuing education, and practical experience.

When you establish a position within a particular niche, you become a source of information, for clients and real estate agents.

Realtors want to work with someone reliable; someone that understands all the potential problems that can arise in a loan application process. Agents want to work with someone that can save them time and money.

Developing Your Niche

Your first step to developing your niche as your mortgage marketing plan is to take an inventory of your skills. Use the following questions to help you:

  • Are there problems that you frequently solve for Realtors?
  • Have you completed any specialized training?
  • Do you have a favorite loan program?
  • Is there an area that you receive compliments from clients or Realtors?
  • Are you passionate about one aspect of your business?
  • Is there a part of your business that you are best at?

As you look through your answers, are there any consistencies?

Narrow Your Focus

If you have discovered some consistencies from the inventory you completed, you?ve uncovered some potential niches.

When you focus on one niche, you are maximizing your resources. Instead of devoting time, energy and funds to pursue training and experience in multiple facets, or multiple loan programs, you focus on becoming knowledgeable on one.

The more you work in one niche, the more your reputation as an expert is disseminated. And people are more likely to seek out an expert to assist them. You are building your reputation for expertise and excellence. Few Realtors would walk away from a relationship that could be so productive, or from such an established knowledge base.

You also are conserving time and money on your mortgage marketing. Instead of investing double or even triple the amount of time and money on multiple positions, your narrow focus helps you be more productive and offers a greater return on investment. Saving time by focusing on one area also helps you to spend more time focusing on your clients and enhancing your reputation.

Realtors Need You

Don?t assume that other mortgage professionals share your same level of expertise. When you work at developing a singular niche, you often leave competition behind.

Realtors want to be confident about relying on your expertise. For example, ask Realtors to complete a survey about their needs. You?ll find that many of them are willing to share examples of inconsistencies in loan processing or problems with communication between lenders and Realtors. Use these experiences to refine your niche.

Expertise is a commodity that is highly valued. When you develop a niche market, you bring a consistent, expertise voice to service for clients and Realtors. A service that they can count on and that you can build your mortgage marketing plans around.

Jeff Nelson helps loan officers increase loan originations by attracting quality relationships with real estate agents from the development of customized relationship-building strategies.

Click here to get a free copy of the Marketing Planning Guide, a 20-page workbook designed to help you outline a strategy to become an Agent Magnet.

Visit us at http://www.loan-officer-marketing.com

Tuesday, February 24, 2009

Fractional Home Ownership

Why buy a whole pie if you only want a pie? If fractional jet ownership makes sense to you, fractional vacation home ownership will too.

As the second home market is experiencing a boom time, 1/3 of all homes sold last year were for second homes. Many will be used as retirement residences in the future, but who wants a single retirement home when you can buy several in different locations for the same expense?

The 76 million baby boomers who will retire in the next 15 years are studying their options and one hot option is fractional real estate ownership. The biggest number of boomers turned 50 this year and last, and at 50 years old, statistically people begin to shop for a retirement residence. At the same time, the fractional real estate business is red hot.

Where do boomers want to be in retirement? On a golf course? Although many do, most want to be in walkable communities, with shopping and dining options. Many want to return to school, and pursue educational interests they never had time for before. What if you can own 4 homes, for 3 mos a year each, and enjoy all the best places.

Quarter-share fractional ownership allows this dream to be an affordable reality.

In a fractional ownership share you are guaranteed a set period of time in your residence. You know years in advance when you will be enjoying your vacation spot. Many fractionals also allow exchange so that if you ever bore of the 'same old great place' you may be able to trade it for another destination residence.

How is fractional different from timeshare you may ask? Timeshare is typically sold in 1/52, or one-week, shares. This greatly increases the marketing expense and dilutes the real estate value or your deeded purchase. With fractional, 1/12 or a full month of use, is typically the minimum share, and the real estate value you are purchasing is closer to that of whole ownership.

Mortgages for timeshare are readily available, but again at a much higher rate and cost - typically 10% or higher rates. Financing for a fractional is again much closer to that of a typical second home with many of the same 30 year type mortgage options. Few lenders understand fractional financing.

Buyers of fractional also benefit by sharing the cost of these facilities, boomers will be able to afford the lifestyle for which they desire and have become accustomed to while affording multiple homes in retirement.

Bob Waun , Founder & CEO
Vacation Finance
bwaun@vacation-finance.com

Bob is CEO and Founder of Vacation Finance, America's First Second-Home Lender, which is a leader in the fractional ownership, condo hotel, cottage and timeshare financing business. Vacation Finance offers a full range of mortgage options for second home buyers and offers fractional financing from 1/4 share to 1/12 share.

Monday, February 23, 2009

Is Socializing Emerging From Online Gaming!

As technology evolved, the online games also went forward for the better. Single player games progressively gave company to two-player games, followed by multi-player games, rendering the environs with the element of virtual competition and fertile with potential of socializing.

Sites that offer free online games generally require the prospects to sign up with their own username, password and general details. This sign up practice allows the users to camouflage their true identity. It has been observed that players tend to submit false information about their gender to explore relationships or to be treated in a better manner in the virtual world.

Dedicated observations of the websites catering online games with over hundreds of thousands of subscribers reveal a striking pattern amongst signups. It has been rumored that male gamers generally sign up as female gamers so as to be treated in a better manner and hence escape competition from fellow male members.

The virtual world of online games has been found extensively male-dominated. Aggressive male players are suspected to behave better or differently in case they know that the competitor is a female. It is believed that the male contenders are lenient with the female gamers, rendering them a little laid back and less aggressive while playing. Thus the female disguise helps in brightening the chances of a win, or to put it in different words? escape competition. It is also rumored that female disguise in the virtual world secures the male gamer a better treatment.

Another striking feature that has been observed amongst the online gamers include social developments. It has been gathered that multi-player games can be very social. For example, in the shooter genre, players have been seen bonding with each other through clans or groups they form to fight another group. They fight as a group against another group! They socialize beyond the game and bond with each other as friends/mentors/well-wishers. They extend moral support to each other during hardships and even find each other jobs!

Another example of how online game communities evolve social environments is WW2 flight simulation called ?Air Warrior?. The players of this game have been found ardent social groups who even hold periodical get-together!

Besides, massive multi-player role-playing games have also found to be famous for the strength of their communities. In simpler terms, sometimes gamers assume the gender of the fellow player with his/ her username, while actually it could be a mere false play in order to explore a different experience. As a result, the players find themselves interested in their fellow players socially speaking and interact with each other in a friendlier manner. This sort of enriches the fun element in the online game involving many players.

On the other hand, when it comes to single player games, socializing depends upon the nature of the game, which may require special skills or understanding, for example, a game of chess.

To conclude, the Internet is proving to be a connecting point on a global scale, surpassing all individual differences related to caste, creed, religion and region. Websites catering flash or shockwave based online games to its thousands of subscribers, free of cost, are actually contributing to the cause of social harmony and wider social networks that defy boundaries of geography, economy, culture, degrees of education and family traditions. Communities are playing fields for social interaction. When gamers send messages to other gamers, they are free to exchange email addresses and meet beyond the game community. Communities have become an extension, a new medium of human touch.


About the Author:

Jonathan White, owner of SimplySearch4it - Free Online Games , Entertainment Portal


Sunday, February 22, 2009

Port Orange Realtor

If you?re in the Port Orange home buying or selling market, you first need to choose a good real estate agent. You could end up spending a good deal of time with your Realtor?, so it?s important you choose carefully.

What should you look for in your Realtor? Here are some things to consider as you get started:

First, don?t be afraid to ?interview? your Port Orange real estate agent possibilities. Don?t be afraid of offending anyone ? this is not new to the agent. You want to make sure you find a real estate agent that has your best home needs in mind, but one that also meshes with your personality and is easy to work with.

Second, when you do interview agents, consider yourself to be on a fact-finding mission. You want to know that your potential Port Orange Realtor is licensed, with that license in good standing. In addition, if you are buying a Florida home, be sure that your agent is working for you and not the seller ? in other words, you want a buyer?s and not a seller?s agent.

Third, if you are selling your home, get all the details of your agreement with your Port Orange real estate agent in writing. You want to know how your house will be marketed, and if you want it marketed aggressively (and most sellers do) it?s useful to have a game plan in writing so you can have a bargaining chip later if the Realtor doesn?t work as agreed upon.

Finally, don?t be afraid of this process. Buying or selling a home can be a stressful job. But if you work hard to find yourself the right agent who is working for you and who has your best interests at heart (and truly, most of them will), you could have a painless and relatively easy house hunting or selling experience.

Kevin is a realtor? at Gaffs Realty Co in the Port Orange, Florida. He sells Port Orange real estate and beautiful Port Orange homes. Kevin Kling can be reached directly at 386-527-8577.

Saturday, February 21, 2009

Do You Understand Real Estate Loan Formulas?

What the real estate loan formula really involves?

All loans are based on a mathematical formula that determines how much you are going to pay. There are five crucial loan variables including: term, interest rate, principal, final value and payment. These are also the five most important terms you need to know before you apply for any loan.

All of them are interconnected and changing any one of them is likely to change the others, though oftentimes not quite as you would predict. There are some rules of thumb about that, but better not rely on them too much. Before you even start thinking about any specific real estate loan you should spend some time learning the variables with a financial calculator.

Term: it is the period used to calculate the loan payment, often the same as the maturity, ie. the time when the last installment is due. Keep in mind though, that in cases the loan maturity is much shorter than the loans term (for example: balloon mortgages). The standard term for a real estate mortgage is 30 years, though in case of amortized loans you can choose a period from 10 to 40 years. Generally the longer the term, the lower the monthly installment, though the change is much smaller than you might expect.

Interest rate: is the amount of money charged by the loan creditor for lending you the money. It is usually a percentage of the sum you borrow. The rate is charged every payment term, but it is customarily quoted on an annual basis. A 6% interest rate is customarily, 12 multiplied by 0.5% (in case of monthly payments). The lower interest rate, the less you have to pay. The effect is greater in case of long-term loans.

Principal: this term can mean either (1) the portion of the installment that is used to reduce the balance or (2) the total amount of money being financed. Generally, the principal (1) should be higher than the interest rate, otherwise you will suffer from negative amortization (your debt will grow even though you pay the installment). The higher the principal (1) is the less is the final value.

Final value: this is the total sum you pay for the loan (all installments plus all additional fees). The final value at the end of the mortgage should usually be zero, meaning that the debt has been paid in full. Keep in mind that the lower final value you want to get, the higher installments you will have to pay.

Payment: your monthly (rarely quarterly) amount due. This important variable determines whether you can ultimately afford a loan or not.

A word of warning: while it is relatively easy to run the formula on a financial calculator, it is very difficult to do that on paper, even if you were good at Math in the college. An online financial calculator is much faster and doesn't make mistakes.

Remember, when you choose a real estate loan for yourself, you have to know all five variables ? only then will you be able to determine what you can actually purchase. Oftentimes it is actually better to go for higher monthly payment if it means lower final value. On the other hand, you might want to stretch your loan (longer term and higher final value) to get more money for a low installment... The number of possibilities are immense, but you have to know what they really are if you are going to profit from them.

Good luck with your real estate ventures.

J. Kane is a Webmaster and publisher for 1st-Real-Estate.com. For more information on real estate financing, visit http://www.1st-real-estate.com/financing.htm

Friday, February 20, 2009

How to Choose a Right Backpack?


Undoubtedly, backpack is an essential gear for every outdoor event to carry your world along with you. Experts believe that when it comes to choosing a right backpack a good rule of thumb is, Buy right and pack light. There is a large variety available in the market ranging from expensive to cheap, lightweight to ultra-lightweight and highly fashionable to real basic. So it may turn out to be a real daunting and challenging task when it comes to choosing a right backpack for your outdoor activity. Most of us don't know what exactly a right backpack is.


Well, a right backpack is the one that sits comfortably on your shoulders and back and make you comfortable to carry your load during long and short trips alike. To select a right backpack you need to consider many things, such as comfort, load distribution on your spine, important features and functionalities you required in your back pack and finally the budget. Among other things, comfort should be on your first priority, because you are buying backpack for comfortable journey. Therefore, to make a good selection decide which feature is important for you, how long is your journey, what is the actual weight you wish to carry etc.


Literally, there is a large variety available in the market to choose from, such as crush resistance, frameless backpack, internal & external backpack, lumbar & torso packs, lightweight, single strap & double strap backpacks, infant & child backpacks, hydration etc. Remember, they are all different so try them actually to see which ones suit you better. Before answering these questions, some important elements should be considered, such as purpose of your trip, duration of your trip along with the capacity you'll need and the features you demand in a backpack.


First of all, remember the golden rule of backpacking uy right and pack light. That means you should buy the right backpack according to your needs and pack it light with essential things only. A right backpack is the one with the right size to fit your torso. It is the first and most important step to safe backpack use. If you can bring one of your friends with you while buying any backpack then it is ok, otherwise ask the salesperson to help you measure your backpack properly.


Next important point can be to purchase adjustable backpacks. Nowadays market is full of good quality adjustable backpacks. No doubt, adjustable back systems are great, but will cost you a bit extra than your bulk standard pack. Actually, adjustable backpacks will allow you to set the height and weight of the pack in the perfect position on your back. Either you can set it yourself or ask your friend or salesperson to adjust and fit your pack on your back by sliding it up and down until you are comfortable. So, when you feel it is right, you lock it off.


Next is to choose the correct frame size. Remember every backpack is useless (regardless of your good height and top quality of backpack) unless it has a correct frame size according to your body and shape. Gone were the days when people think 'one-size-fits-all'--it far from the truth. Experts strongly believe that your torso size and your overall height are two completely separate measurements when it comes to backpacks. Actually Wayne Gregory was the first backpack designer who thought seriously about the importance of correct frame size to fit your torso.


According to him, your correct frame size can be found by measuring your torso from the seventh vertebra down the spine to the point in the small of your back which is horizontally level with the top of your hip bones. To find this point, use your fingers to trace the hip bone upwards till you feel the point where the top edge of your hip bones curve inwards, on the side of the hip, creating something of a shelf. This measurement is the torso length, especially useful to consider those packs with non-adjustable back system. In fact this system that is used throughout the outdoor industry today to measure the exact body size and to determine the correct frame's size.


Similarly, another important consideration is proper fit of waist belt by knowing its correct size. In simpler words, the hip belt is meant for hips and not for your waist. Therefore hip belt should rest on your hipbone, not on your waist, because if it is on your waist then you will carry too much weight on your shoulder. In the same way if it is too low, it is bound to interfere with your walking. Quite frankly, both are undesirable. Ideally with a full pack on, the top edge of the waist belt should ride one inch above the top of the hip bone. Lastly, you should also pay attention to shoulder straps. These days many good quality backpacks are available in the market with adjustable shoulder straps. Backpacks with self-adjustable shoulder are regarded as top backpacks, because in these backpacks the shoulder straps can be rotated to accommodate individual neck and shoulder shapes.


Well folks, these were just few considerations for choosing a right backpack for your hiking or trekking. Your backpack contains all of your surviving things in a wilderness so you always try to select a good and comfortable backpack. The only cause behind the selection of an expensive backpack is comfort, so while purchasing any backpack, do some research to find the pack that's right for you.

About the Author

Passionate hiker and avid backpacker with exceptional field experience. Lundkvist combines his education and career with his love of nature and being outdoors. Trekking is his call to fame. Find him at: www.mytrekkingpoles.com

Thursday, February 19, 2009

Tips To Baby Care Things You Should Know

Wonderful moment has arrived ? you had a baby! Now what? Caring for your baby is a skill, lucky us it can be easily acquired and learned. Baby care and nurturing is going to fill your days for the first few month to the maximum, and here are some tips to help you reduce stress and make parenting more enjoyable!

  • Talking to, touching, and holding your new baby in the delivery room is good for you and your baby.
  • This is a wonderful time to start breastfeeding. Tell your care giver not to let anyone else feed your baby so that your baby will only get your breast milk.
  • Your health care giver will examine your baby right after birth, checking appearance and color, reflexes, breathing, heart rate, and activity to see whether your baby needs any special care.
  • Ask to have your newborn placed beside you in bed. Touch and hold your baby, and get to know how your baby feels.
  • Your baby may look different from the way you expected. Ask the hospital staff if you have questions about the way your baby looks.
  • Ask the staff to show you how to take your baby?s temperature and read the thermometer.
  • All infants should be protected against hepatitis B. Some doctors recommend the first shot be given before going home from the hospital.
  • You should take your baby to see the doctor when your baby is about 1 week old unless you are told to come in sooner. Call your baby?s doctor right after your baby is born for an appointment.
Before you and your baby leave the hospital, a few drops of blood will be taken from your baby?s heel to check for some rare problems.

You will need a car safety seat (marked ?federally approved?) to bring your baby home. It is the law?your baby must always be in an approved safety seat when traveling in a car, van, or truck. Ask your health care giver, the hospital where you deliver, or health department about programs that loan federally approved car safety seats.

If you or the baby?s father have any questions about how to pick up, hold, feed, bathe, diaper, or dress your baby, ask the hospital staff to help you. Your new baby needs all of the love and comfort you can give. You cannot love a baby too much. Your entire family can share in the joy of this love.

Caring for your baby at home ?

Most newborn babies spend most of their time sleeping and eating. You want to make sure that baby has a safe place to sleep and is put to sleep in a safe position.

A safe crib will have slats no more than 2 3/8 inches apart and corner posts less than 5/8 inch high above the rails.

Baby should sleep on a firm mattress that fits tightly in the crib, cradle or bassinet.

Do not put pillows, comforters or other soft padded materials in the bed under the baby.

Put healthy infants to sleep on their backs or sides.

Keep the sides of crib raised when baby is sleeping in it.

Try to keep sleeping newborns away from pets, other children and large overstuffed toys.

Don?t let people smoke around your baby. Your baby?s lungs are delicate. Babies are not as resistant to respiratory infections as their parents.

Hopefully these simple tips will help you enjoy your new responsibilities to its fullest and fill your days with joy, not stress.

Olga is a co-publisher of baby care guide designed to Unlock your Inner Mother Code. Parenting manual that mother nature should have included with your new baby http://www.Baby-Formula-Advisor.com


Wednesday, February 18, 2009

Bridal Lingerie Explained




 



Bridal Lingerie ExplainedSubmitted By: Jason Mark Hulott   
















A wedding gown is the centerpiece of a wedding. But if the gown is the centerpiece, the lingerie is the largest flower in the centerpiece. Without the right lingerie, a wedding dress doesn't fit the theme. Who would think to wear cotton panties and a simple bra underneath a wedding dress? Bridal lingerie can make or break the effects of a wedding dress. Different styles of lingerie can enhance or hide parts of the body that the bride feels are prominent.


What type of lingerie a bride gets depends on the style and length of the wedding gown. The choice also varies with the bride's body shape. Dresses that show some skin, or shorter dresses, will need an invisible undergarment that doesn't get in the way. Women who wear strapless dresses cannot wear a bra. In this case, adhesive cups or breast petals are tasteful and attractive. Breast petals cover the nipple and center of the breast. They can be made of polyester or silicone gel, and ensure that nothing comes through the gown that doesn't belong. For women who need to enhance their breasts, a bustier or push-up bra can do wonders to make them appear larger and fuller.


Bridal lingerie is reminiscent of the old corset/bustier style of the Victorian Era. But unlike the old style, newer types actually emulate comfort. They also offer the control that brides need underneath all that fancy ribbon and lace. Modern corsets tighten and form the waistline. They can be of a lace-up style or made from naturally stretchy material like spandex. Bustiers are also popular wedding lingerie. They emphasize and control the bust. And a simple pair of panty hose or control-top panties can support and tighten the rear.


It is usually the maid of honor who chooses the bridal lingerie. However, she only chooses lingerie for the wedding day itself. Sometimes the wedding night. It will be up to the bride to choose lingerie for the honeymoon. Each occasion will dictate a different kind of lingerie, since each has its own emotional context. For the wedding ceremony, lacy or patterned fabrics are not recommended. They can show through the gown, making it look somewhat sloppy and distasteful. Seamless undergarments and thongs are good for those who are comfortable in them. Especially if the bride wears a short dress or one that reveals the panty line. A bodysuit that covers both the breast and the torso will serve as a slimming garment, if the wedding dress is thin.


Finding bridal lingerie is a very important job. The bride will be wearing the wedding lingerie for more than twelve hours. She will need something that is comfortable while still being classy. Lingerie for the wedding night is easier to choose. No one but the bride and her new husband will see this lingerie. It's all about romance. Frilly, lacy lingerie is sexy and provocative without heading into pornographic. For the honeymoon, pornographic is good. Almost expected. But the theme doesn't have to be taken too far. The maid outfits and the fishnet stockings should be spared for later, when men and women need to spice up their sex lives, not on the honeymoon, when sex is most of the reason for celebrating!











About the Author:

Jason Hulott is Editor of My Lingerie Expert, please drop by for Cheap Lingerie and Lingerie News. Visit http://www.mylingerieexpert.co.uk.




Article Tags: bride, lingerie, wedding













Tuesday, February 17, 2009

The Evolution Of Backgammon Sets From Stone To Video




 



The Evolution Of Backgammon Sets From Stone To VideoSubmitted By: Gene Marshall  
















The backgammon set with its wooden board and round counters, the dice and the cup to throw them, is familiar to a huge section of the world?s inhabitants. Perhaps there are areas of remote Papua New Guinea where the game has not yet penetrated, but for most of the people reading this article, explaining the components of the backgammon set is as superfluous as describing what a pack of cards contains.


The spread of the backgammon game from its ancestral home in today?s Iran and Iraq, via the Roman Empire and the Arab world across the globe is a fascinating historical story. Whereas so many ancient games have been lost to us, yet how to play backgammon is known to millions of people today, is a question worth pondering. Obviously, the anonymous inventors of the game hit on a winning recipe. The backgammon rules simplicity has made the game an easy one to learn and this has certainly helped insurance its endurance. However, the adaptability of the game to changing times and tastes has without doubt made a major contribution to the game?s successful transit through the ages. The transformation of the backgammon set from stone to video offers one of the clearest indications of the game?s durability.


According to ancient records and archaeological evidence, the first backgammon counters were made of smooth stones, perhaps gathered from the edge of a stream. The dice would have been carved in bone. The board may have been carved or painted on a flat piece of wood, or perhaps even scratched out in the earth. In line with the widening range of materials coming into use in the home, farm and workshop, the materials used to make the backgammon set also evolved. Pottery replaced stone and bone, and sets began to be constructed in a more elaborate manner. Although most backgammon sets would have been homemade, the commercial production of sets in the last century brought cheap backgammon sets onto the market. Even those who didn?t have the means to make their own sets could now afford to buy their own set. At the upper end of the market, classy backgammon sets made of precious metals to grace the tables of kings and aristocrats also made an appearance.


For the first five thousand years of the game?s history, whatever materials backgammon sets were made of they shared in common the fact that they were in some way or another manufactured. The creation of backgammon software in the past fifteen years has taken the game into new dimensions. When someone invites you to play backgammon today, they may just as well be referring to online backgammon as the conventional offline variety of the game. The backgammon online developers have gone out of their way to present a 3-D backgammon set that looks almost like the ?real thing?. Going out and looking for a backgammon set to buy, or joining a club is no longer necessary to participate in the game. Backgammon has shown how well it adapts to the times.














Article Tags: backgammon, game, sets











Monday, February 16, 2009

How Debra's Renovations Were all Nearly Done for Free

Unit investment strategy to get your renovations done for free!

I want to share with you a very creative way a friend of mine is using to get all her renovations done on a new investment property for little or no cost. What Debra is doing is very creative and will only need to be monitored by her with everyone else doing all the work and paying for the costs.

Debra has bought a block of units in a capital city that are in need of major renovations. In all there are ten units. Debra has secured the units on a long settlement with the vendor happy to allow her to start renovating them immediately. What she has planned to do is call this project the Pot of Gold event.

She has approached local charities to see if they would be interested in taking over the renovation of one unit each. They will co ordinate and do all the work. Meanwhile Debra has approached local television stations to see if they would be interested in televising the whole project from start to finish. The television will be used to promote the sponsors who donate the materials to be used in each unit and also to promote open days where the public is invited in to view the progress.

When people visit the unit site they are asked to donate a gold coin as an admission charge. This gold coin donation goes into the pot of gold. It is planned to have five open days. Each open day will be the focus of a particular stage of the renovation. The open days will be for the whole week end, to give people a chance to get there if they work on the saturday. So in a a capital city you can imagine there will be a lot of people attending. The pot of gold will be worth a lot of money by the time the project is finished.

The charity that is judged to have done the best make over on their unit will win the pot of gold. The public will be asked to judge who is the winner. They will be able to view the progress of the units renovation at the open days and also on the television. All round every one will be a winner. The charities will have the chance to win the money, the material suppliers will get valuable TV and press exposure, the TV station will get better ratings, Debra will get her renovations done for little or no money and Debra plans to use the units for a safe house for recently divorced women who have an income, but need a safe place to settle in and get back on their feet. The rents on the units will be a a reduced rate under the local median average. This will be Debra's way of helping out people in need.

At time of writing this article Debra had eight charities interested and a TV station ready to come on board. Debra also plans to approach the local minister of housing to apply for a reduced rate on the governmant stamp duty. I think the chances of this happening will be good as Debra plans to outline how she will be helping to house women who are going through a difficult time and what Debra is doing here is assist the government with short term housing. Any assistance from the government will be looked upon favourably by every one. All in all this will be a win/win situation for everyone.

Debra will be able to renovate the units while the investment property is settling, then there will be women waiting to rent the units because of the TV exposure. The amount of interest this will create will have real estate agents calling Debra and wanting her to do the same on other real estate investment properties they have on their books. Debra will be real estate investing for profit and using little of her own money. I feel this strategy leverages your time and resources. It is a quick way to achieve capital growth.

To your investing success Leo Love

PS If your family or friends are interested please pass this on to them

www.therealestateinvester.com

http://www.therealestateinvester.com

I am an experienced and passionate investor. I buy typical mum and dad type houses that give me cash flow and capital growth. My website offers helpful tips and ideas for any type of investor to help you with your wealth creation. Using my site will help to prevent you falling into the traps the inexperienced investors do.

Sunday, February 15, 2009

Tips For Traveling With A Toddler




 



Tips For Traveling With A ToddlerSubmitted By: April Aguren  
















Traveling is an exciting time for the entire family, and if you are taking a toddler along on the trip, you?ll need to plan ahead with activities, snacks, and all the right tools to stay organized.


Traveling with kids is much more fun when everyone is well-prepared for the adventure; this means packing the right items, making sure there are enough activities to keep the kids busy, and keeping everyone?s safety in mind. Whether you?re planning a short weekend getaway or a few weeks on a family vacation, here are some simple tips for traveling with a toddler:


1. Car seats, baby carriers, strollers, and booster seats. Making sure you have a safe car seat, a stroller and booster seats available, will make it much easier to travel to different venues with your toddler. Car seats can ensure a safe drive, while your own collapsible stroller will make it simple to tour and visit different areas without having to rent equipment. Leave room in your car to pack the stroller easily, and take along a booster seat if you have some extra space. You may also want to bring a sling or baby carrier to reduce the amount of gear to pack if your child is not too heavy for you to carry. Most slings can support a child up to 35 lbs. Check with your sling?s/carrier?s manufacturer for details.


2. Comfortable clothing. The right outfit for the day of traveling is important, since you want your toddler to be comfortable and enjoy the experience. Light-colored clothing works best, especially if you?re traveling to a warmer climate. You?ll want to pack at least two outfits for the days you?ll be traveling on the road or in an airplane, as your toddler may spill food and drinks on their clothes and that will require an outfit change.


3. Diaper bags and accessories. You?ll need a place to store those extra diaper bags, toys, videos, snacks, and clothing, so that everything is within easy reach. If you are traveling by car or van, pick up an organizer bag that you can just hang over the car seat, or a tote-style box/organizer that you can slip into the trunk of the car.


4. Puzzles and games. Puzzles and games will keep your toddler and kids busy during those very long travel times, so make sure you?re taking along a tote bag of their favorite toys, coloring books, and games. Games don?t have to contain lots of pieces when you?re on the road ? think about simple activities such as coloring books with crayons, picture books, and activity books that will keep them occupied. You also may want to create a surprise bag of little games/treats for each hour/certain number of miles passed. This keeps them entertained and wondering what will come next.


5. DVDs and media activities. A portable DVD player, an iPod, or just a simple CD player are other activities that can keep your toddler and kids occupied on a long trip. Rent some of their favorite movies for the DVD player, or just pick up some fun books on tape for them to listen to. These activities can keep kids busy for a few hours, and are especially valuable for those extra-long trips.


6. Snacks and food. Taking along enough snacks is essential when traveling with kids, especially since you don?t want to waste lots of money on food and snacks along the way. Packing your own snacks and food will also ensure that your kids can eat healthy when traveling, so think of simple and tasty snacks the whole family can enjoy. Fruit wedges, granola bars, peanut butter sandwiches, and even homemade trail mix are great foods for traveling, and can make long hours of traveling much more fun.


7. Immunizations and medical records. If you?re traveling out of the country, you?ll need to have your kids immunized against various diseases and conditions, but you?ll also want to have everyone get a health checkup before leaving and upon your return. Make an appointment with the doctor or physician at least two to three weeks before your travel dates, so that everyone can enjoy the trip in the best of health.


8. Passports, visas, and identity cards. Make sure you have all of the paperwork and materials you will need for your travel plans well ahead of time, and pack all of these in a separate case for easy access. All of your personal records need to be in an easily accessible place in case of emergency, so be sure to make a place for these and keep them on close-at-hand during your trip.


Whether you?re traveling on a long road trip or taking an airplane ride with your kids, making sure they are comfortable, safe, and enjoying the experience should be a top priority. Stay organized and plan ahead, using all of these simple strategies, so that you can deliver a fun vacation the whole family will enjoy!











About the Author:

April Aguren is the owner of ChildToGo.com, a kids? travel accessory website. She has traveled extensively as a marketing event manager for work and with her family for fun. She is also the author of the ebook, Wedding Bells: an eguide to planning your wedding. For more information on travel accessory gear for your baby, toddler or preschooler, see her site at www.childtogo.com.




Article Tags: kids, snacks, traveling













Saturday, February 14, 2009

Feel of Belonging



Enyce is an
American hip hop fashion label owned by one of the most fashion company in America, Liz
Claiborne Incorporated.











When it comes to clothes that can
represent the true nature and color of the urban community, the enyce is sure
to give what the urban has given. The enyce is an urban clothing line
collection that provides the necessary features of the urban community that can
make you feel that you belong.



The enyce clothing line is a hip hop
fashion clothing line owned by one of the most popular fashion company in
America, the Liz Claiborne
Incorporated.



The Liz Claiborne Incorporated is a fashion company founded in 1976
in New York City
that designs and markets a wide range of women's and men's apparel, accessories
and fragrance products. And among the many products of the Liz Claiborne Incorporated is the enyce.



But before the Liz Claiborne Incorporated owned the enyce, it was first
founded by Evan Davis, Lando Felix and Tony Shellman, and the enyce
label was first established in New
York City. The three co-founders had originally met
while working for Seattle-based clothing brand International News.



On 2004, the Liz Claiborne Incorporated acquired the enyce company for $114
million from Sports Brands International.



Because of the growing popularity
of the enyce, the Liz Claiborne
Incorporated have decided to expand the enyce clothing line and made several
new apparels such as lady enyce, eno, lady eno, eno kids, eno seniors and eno
mako.



Now you might want to know on how
to pronounce the enyce properly. Enyce (the brand) is pronounced E-Nee-Chay.
However, the term originated as slang, pronounced En-Why-See. The name is a
play on NYC (New York City)
where Enyce derives its roots.



The enyce urban clothing line can
be easily seen on any kind of clothing shop, but for a more convenient way on
purchasing on some of those enyce urban clothing line, then the best place
would be the internet, and the perfect place to start is on the Streetzwear.



So whenever you wanted to the
style of the urban community and the fashion of its people, then enyce can
provide you with just that. For more information about the enyce urban clothing
line apparels, then visit www.streetzwear.com.






Source: Free Articles from ArticlesFactory.com




ABOUT THE AUTHOR


www.streetzwear.com


Friday, February 13, 2009

Las Vegas Home Builders

Signature Custom Homes is a full-service design/build company that concentrates on one-of-a-kind homes with greater design and craftsmanship. They are renowned for delivering a home on budget and on time. The team of professionals deployed by Signature Custom Homes will work together with the owner in designing a custom home that meets the exclusive needs of the owner's distinctive lifestyle. Prices start from $800,000

Toll Brothers, Inc. (NYSE:TOL) is the country's leading builder of luxury homes. In 38 years, Toll Brothers has constructed over 47,000 luxury homes offering wealthy single-family homes and elegant town and carriage homes. Building on its well-established brand, Toll Brothers, Inc. (NYSE:TOL) is coming up with urban mid- rise and high-rise condominium product and suburban offerings. Prices start from $350,000.

Las Vegas is one of the rapidly growing cities in the nation, and it is not difficult to see why. Beautiful year round climate and proper access to entertainment mark this area as very desirable. Engle Homes designs and produces communities and homes that keep pace with the requirements of families and individuals in this lively environment. Prices start from $220,000.

American West believes in the importance of family. They see the new home as a reflection of the family's personality and values. From groundbreaking design and superior construction, to homeowner approval, American West's homes offer outstanding quality and bargain prices per square foot of any homebuilder in La Vegas. Prices start from $325,000.

Richmond American Homes, for over three decades, has been constructing and financing the best homes in the city of Las Vegas. With a reputation for excellent craftsmanship, it is no revelation that Richmond American is one of the country's top homebuilders. Prices start from $200,000.

Las Vegas Homes provides detailed information on Las Vegas Homes, Las Vegas Home Sales, Las Vegas New Homes, Las Vegas Home Builders and more. Las Vegas Homes is affiliated with Las Vegas Travel Deals.

Thursday, February 12, 2009

Toys That Last For Generations: Yes They're Still Being Made!

Today's offerings of plasticized bins and furniture aren't ones that you'll likely want to save to pass down through generations. Most of them are cheaply made and break or crack, and others fade from the sun or parts go missing, thanks to low-cost home-assembly kits. Nothing seems to be anything of long-lasting value or charm, and there isn't much that looks like it might become something your son or daughter would treasure as years pass on.

There are still keepsakes that your child may enjoy now and that will become memorabilia to store away. It's wonderful to pull out a small chair or a rocking horse that you can hand down to a new youngster when your son or daughter has children. Carefully crafted classic toys or small items of furniture make wonderful gifts for grandchildren. If your adult child decides to not have children, your son or daughter might still be touched and appreciate that you set aside a beloved item they can set on display in their homes.

Wooden toys offer long-lasting durability that withstands the banging, throwing, and chewing most toddlers will put their toys through. Most wooden toys today are carefully handcrafted for strength, as they have a reputation of being a classic favorite to maintain. Trains and trucks will provide hours of imaginative fun for boys, and when your son is grown, the vehicles can be easily integrated into a bachelor's d?cor or given to your grandson.

Young girls enjoy the creative hours they spend rearranging dollhouses, and choosing one that is beautiful yet functional is a wise decision. Dollhouses, just like wooden toys, can turn into treasures on proud display in an adult home. Not only that, dollhouses are involved in the hobby of miniature collectibles, and many adults continue their charming childhood pastime well into their senior years.

Furniture makes for wonderful items to pass down over the years. Cribs used to be treasured items to hold new babies, but with safety recommendations often changing, parents are looking for other objects that will be loved for generations. A small wooden chair or chair-and-table set can be just the thing for lasting memories. Their durability and small size are perfect for passing on to other children you care for.

Those who enjoy antiques might appreciate the nostalgic idea of the beginning of something very special. A wooden toy box, painted with a special design, may look just right in a toddler's room, and the toy box will last until the child is grown with a son of his own. A whimsical chair decorated with a flower on the seat, might be charming tucked in a corner of either a little girl's room or a grown woman's sun porch. It's heartwarming to wonder how many offspring will love child-sized furniture thanks to your thoughtful gift.

Well-crafted toys and scaled down furniture solidly built will last forever. These items will have a special place in both your heart, as well as someone else's. Taking the time to choose items for children that will hold sentimental value later on in life and that are beautiful enough to be put on display in a home isn't just an idea ? it's a thought that comes straight from the heart.


About the Author:

Find helpful and creative ideas for parents and grandparents while you shop our great selection of kids furniture and classic toys (including the ever-popular rocking horse). Visit www.TheMagicalRockingHorse.com today!




Wednesday, February 11, 2009

Baby Travel Systems

Baby travel systems

Baby travel systems are the best value for your money. These systems are really wonderful. They come with many different features but all include a car seat and stroller. The car seat normally attaches to a base that stays in the car. The car seat also attaches to the stroller. The car seats are easy to attach with a one hand latch that most systems today.

There are many brand names out there that offer quality and durability in the baby travel systems line. Some of the names you will hear are Cosco, Eddie Bauer, Graco, Evenflo, among many others.

Coscos baby travel systems have wonderful features that include a car seat which is also the infant carrier and the stroller. The stroller is equipped with an infinite position reclining seat, a three point harness system, front wheel suspension, front reflectors, a large basket under the seat, a snack tray for your baby, and a parent tray on the handle. The car seat features include a washable and removable padded fabric pad, and a 5 point harness safety belt. This stroller is easy to fold up and put away with a one hand motion.

Eddie Bauer baby travel systems are lightweight and easy to maneuver. Other wonderful features include a multi-position reclining seat, child and parent snack tray, and the 5 point harness system. Eddie Bauer has more than one style you can choose from all with different features that you are sure to love.

Graco baby travel systems are designed for infants up to age 3. This system has great suspension to give your baby a smooth ride, a childs tray, a parent tray with a temperature gauge and clock included, and other unique features. The AutoBaby car seat locks simply onto the stroller and the SafetyBase very easily with just one hand. This system is convenient and economical.

An Evenflo baby travel system has many different designs to choose from, all with some great features that you should check out. The large canopy will protect you little one from all types of weather and this system can be pushed using one hand.

As you shop for you baby travel systems check out all the new features and options available today. You will enjoy having a travel system that will save you time and money.

Baby travel systems are the best value for your money. These systems are really wonderful. They come with many different features but all include a car seat and stroller. The car seat normally attaches to a base that stays in the car. The car seat also attaches to the stroller. The car seats are easy to attach with a one hand latch that most systems today.

There are many brand names out there that offer quality and durability in the baby travel systems line. Some of the names you will hear are Cosco, Eddie Bauer, Graco, Evenflo, among many others.

Coscos baby travel systems have wonderful features that include a car seat which is also the infant carrier and the stroller. The stroller is equipped with an infinite position reclining seat, a three point harness system, front wheel suspension, front reflectors, a large basket under the seat, a snack tray for your baby, and a parent tray on the handle. The car seat features include a washable and removable padded fabric pad, and a 5 point harness safety belt. This stroller is easy to fold up and put away with a one hand motion.

Eddie Bauer baby travel systems are lightweight and easy to maneuver. Other wonderful features include a multi-position reclining seat, child and parent snack tray, and the 5 point harness system. Eddie Bauer has more than one style you can choose from all with different features that you are sure to love.

Graco baby travel systems are designed for infants up to age 3. This system has great suspension to give your baby a smooth ride, a childs tray, a parent tray with a temperature gauge and clock included, and other unique features. The AutoBaby car seat locks simply onto the stroller and the SafetyBase very easily with just one hand. This system is convenient and economical.

An Evenflo baby travel system has many different designs to choose from, all with some great features that you should check out. The large canopy will protect you little one from all types of weather and this system can be pushed using one hand.

As you shop for you baby travel systems check out all the new features and options available today. You will enjoy having a travel system that will save you time and money.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Serenity is an author at Baby Strollers Guide
Serenity, a mother herself, has years of experience with baby products


Monday, February 9, 2009

Mind Your Own Business Harjinder Sidhu Pick of the Week


I, Harjinder Sidhu, have chosen this book summary entitled,
Mind Your Own Business. This is all about A Maverick's
Guide to Business, Leadership and Life. Another great book
from Sidney Harman. Doubleday & Company, Inc., 2003; ISBN
0-385-50959-6; 208 page



Now, let's begin our article....


A maverick is an independent person who will not go along
with the other members of a group (Oxford ESL Dictionary).
This book provides priceless stories and insights from a
maverick of the business world; an exemplary business leader
who prefers not to follow orthodox beliefs in business, nor
be eaten by the hyped up ideas of the present. Instead, he
chooses the course of action that is appropriate for the
changing times.




The Maverick's Way: New Old Thing


What is effective? This is the question answered by the
maverick. He reconciles the good things from both the Old
and New times, and focuses on what is really effective in
confronting the challenges of 21st century business dealings.




A maverick thinks outside of the bed, knows that it pays to
be daring, does not allow technology to tyrannize, finds
strength in diversity, maintains balance and harmony among
people, sets leadership by example, has a strong ethical
base, and values employees and customers. A maverick knows
his customers and believes strongly in his products.




To a maverick, a company is a not just a big candy store. It
is a living instrument with living human beings. It should
have a HEART.




Keys to Leadership


The leader leads. He exercises critical judgment, which will
have a great impact on his people.




The leader defines the company. The leader's responsibility
is to explicitly present and advocate the company's purposes
and goals.




The leader inspires. He gives sense and meaning to the job.
He makes his people realize, that beyond profit there is an
underlying meaning, value, and deeper reason for the work
they do.




The leader should be the evangelist. He should be able to
exercise his influence, to sell the values of ethical
conduct.




The leader must see the company as a coherent whole. He
should be aware of the diversity in the company and bring
this together to promote the whole.




The leader must know that there is no better way to create
a family in the workplace than to encourage the family at
home. Harman International introduced the anti-domestic
violence program in the company, which reinforces the idea
that the company cares.




The leader should never underestimate the value of
disciplined hard work.




The leader empowers subordinates to do their jobs. He
should institute programs for the guidance and training
of his people. He should always keep the lines of
communication open.




The leader promotes closure. He should know the right
time to get things done.




The leader knows what he doesn't know. The leader is not
afraid to ask clarifications, if he does not understand a
particular subject.




The leader knows the meaning of two minutes. He should
respect the time of others and that of his own.




The leader teaches.




Above all, the leader develops others. As Lao Tzu advanced:
he leader having accomplished great things, the people
all feel they did it themselves...




The very best leaders go beyond the mere setting of example.
He should be able to cause a leap of imagination and faith
in his people.




The leader recognizes that people are often at their very
best the moment they have been let go. There are times
when an employee doesn't like the work anymore, or he is
unable to appreciate how the whole enterprise works- this
is the time to set him free.




A Company Must Be Profitable


1) A solid financial base is fundamental.




2) Debt should not exceed equity. A debt to equity ratio
of 1 to 1 or better should be the goal, so that a company's
leader and key executives do not spend all their time on
mere survival -paying bills, meeting the payroll, and
keeping the banks happy- but moving forward and meeting
bigger challenges and doing more visionary work.




3) There should be a regular process for annual strategic
planning and budget-planning.




The Fundamentals of Profit and Loss


1) Manage expectations, not the profits. Keep the
shareholders informed, to eliminate doubts of manipulating
numbers.




2) The Chairman and CEO should be financially literate.
They should know what the numbers really mean.




3) Good growth and profitability requires the exercise
of critical judgment. The leader should make certain that
the budget is one the company can live with.




4) In repurchasing the company's own stocks, make sure that
it will add to the company's earnings.




5) Look into the availability of funds so that the balance
sheet will not be compromised.




Make an Edge in the Business World


1) Writing. It is a unique and powerful skill you can use
for clarity and persuasion.




2) Public Speaking and Story-telling. Speak directly, and
without notes, to your audience. Individuals respond to a
well-told story.




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By: Harjinder Sidhu
About the Author

Sunday, February 8, 2009

Tips to Save You Time and Money When Investing

Here is some valuable and time saving real estate investing tips that will benifit you and most people which you may not be aware of . . .

Everyone?s reason for selling their property is different and the settlement time in which they want (or need) to sell can vary as well.

When a person is selling a property I like to find out what is their level of Motivation to Sell.

What you need to determine is that some vendors are motivated to sell and will look favourably on your offers in order to achieve a quick sale while others have higher and often unrealistic prices that will not be suitable for your investing needs.

What I would suggest is you focus on those who are motivated and spend less time on those who are not. Don?t ever take their rejection of your offer personally,

And please don?t let fear of rejection stop you from making any offers with any types of vendors.

You will quickly find the motivated vendors by making offers, always include a ?subject to? line included in your the offer. (Subject to Finance, Building inspection, etc)

Always treat the vendor as a businesses partner it is merely a transaction between both parties to achieve a satisfactory outcome.

Be polite and respect them, don?t try to burn them. Concentrate on their needs as well. There are always plenty of deals to be had.

If you treat people this way they will be more likely to want to do business with you. Sometimes they will often come back and take another look at your offer if they can?t get their asking price.

Remember there is always more than one way to skin a cat.

http://www.therealestateinvester.com I am an experienced and passionate investor. I buy typical mum and dad type houses that give me cash flow and capital growth. My website offers helpful tips and ideas for any type of investor to help you with your wealth creation. Using my site will help to prevent you falling into the traps the inexperienced investors do.

Saturday, February 7, 2009

Mortgage Applications Down

Mortgage applications fell for the first time in four weeks as demand hit the lowest level in almost three years.

According to the Mortgage Bankers Association weekly report, the seasonally adjusted index of mortgage application activity for the week ended August 25 decreased 0.9%, landing nearly 23% below last year's level for the same week.

The decline remained consistent with the slowdown being seen in the housing market.

We're still in the soft landing camp for the housing market, explained John Shin, senior economist for Lehman Brothers. We do see a sizable impact on the economy and expect that the slowing housing market is going to trim roughly one percentage point off of growth over the rest of this year and the next year as well.

For the sixth straight week, home refinancing demand increased as a result of decreasing mortgage rates.

Last week, the 30-year fixed-rate mortgage rate averaged 6.39%, well below June's four-year high of 6.86%. However, they were well above last year's level of 5.73%.

Seasonally adjusted index of refinancing applications increased slightly for the week, up to 1,609.2 from 1,608.5.

The refinancing share of total applications increased to 41.5%, up from 40.6% the week prior. This marks the highest level since February.

Fifteen-year fixed-rate mortgages averaged a rate of 6.06%, up from 6.04% the week prior. The one-year adjustable-rate mortgage also saw an increase, up to 5.97% from 5.91%.

ARMs made up 26.8% of total loan applications, an increase from 26.4% the week prior.

The MBA's survey covers 50% of all US retail residential mortgage loans. Respondents include mortgage bankers, commercial banks and thrifts.

Martin Lukac represents http://www.RateEmpire.com and http://www.1AmericanFinancial.com, a finance web-company specializing in real estate and mortgage rates. We specialize in daily updates, mortgage news, rate predictions, mortgage rates and more. Find low home loan mortgage interest rates from hundreds of mortgage companies!

Friday, February 6, 2009

Foot Care For Backpackers And Hikers

Proper foot care is a must for hikers and backpackers. You can be in perfect health in every other way and have a few blisters turn a nice backpacking trip into a survival situation. Here are some suggestions on how to avoid foot problems when hiking, and then some tips on dealing with the problems if they do occur.

Foot Care - Preventing Problems

- Have extra clean dry socks. Wash a pair in a stream if necessary. Hang them from your pack to dry.

- Air out your feet. Stop at least every couple hours and take off your shoes to let your feet cool.

- Treat hot spots. Don't let hot areas on your feet develop into blisters - treat them early.

- No hiking boots (unless you need ankle support). Running shoes are less likely to cause blisters.

- Know your limits. Don't keep hiking once your feet are getting too sore.

- Tighten laces near your ankles when going downhill, to prevent your toes from jamming against the front of the shoes.

Common Foot Care

Blisters should be treated as early as possible. Use moleskin (or duct tape if you have nothing better), and cut a hole for the blister to rest in, to avoid pressure on it. If it must be popped, do so with a sterilized needle at the base of the blister.

Black toe is a toenail that has blood trapped underneath. It happens when the nail is continually hitting the front of your hiking boot or rubbing on the top. Try to correct the cause (tighten laces by ankle on downhill stretches). If the nail isn't painful or loose, you can leave it alone. Otherwise trim the nail, and wrap it with a bandage or duct tape.

Ingrown toenails happen from a bad nail-cutting job or tight boots. The nail edge grows into the flesh. This can be very painful. Soak the toe in salty warm water for about ten minutes, then work the flesh back so you can cut the corner of the nail. For best results, you can also tuck a bit of cotton or toilet paper covered in antibacterial cream under the inflamed flesh (change daily).

Plantar fasciitis is an inflammation and stretching of the tissue that connects your heel to your toes (the plantar fascia). You feel pain in the foot on the first steps after resting, or in the morning. To treat this on the trail, soak your feet in a cold stream for a while. Insoles with arch support and custom orthotics can help prevent this, if it is a recurring problem.

Calluses are just thick and hard patches of skin. Corns are just calluses on the bony parts of the toes. They are caused by continual friction. If they become painful, you can use a nail file or knife to carefully file away the thickness and roughness.

Try to prevent foot injuries and problems when possible, but be prepared for them anyhow. Carry moleskin and antibiotic cream, for example. You should also try to remember the basic foot care for the common conditions listed above.

Copyright Steve Gillman. To get the ebook Ultralight Backpacking Secrets (And Wilderness Survival Tips) for FREE, as well as photos, gear recommendations, and a new wilderness survival section, visit: The Ultralight Backpacking Site: http://www.The-Ultralight-Site.com


Thursday, February 5, 2009

Show Your Logo On The Go

Want to show your school spirit while you are out and about? Whether you are traveling on foot, by car, or any number of other forms of transportation, opportunities abound for you to display your college?s logo and colors, so there?s no mistake about where your loyalties lie. It can be a great conversation starter, too.

Electric bikes can be a great idea for college students. Your kid may be pressuring you for a car, but the truth is that parking on college campuses is at a premium, and many students end up tacking parking ticket fees onto their ever increasing tuition bills. Many electric bikes are small enough that they can be stored in a student?s dorm room, or in traditional bike storage areas. They can be folded down to take up even less space. Plus, with around 20 miles per charge, they are perfect to get your student just far enough to get to class, grab a few groceries, or head to the movies, without the added pressure of being the one who is always asked for rides. They recharge in a few hours, so there?s not much down time.

Already happy with your human powered two wheeler and looking for a way to accessorize? Most colleges have decals in many different shapes and sizes, so you?re sure to find one that will fit your bike. You might even find a flag that will fit.

If you do have a car, college logo accessory options are endless. There are hitch covers, window film, steering wheel covers, license plate frames, even horns that play your school?s fight song. There are floor mats, bug shields, antenna caps, and mudflaps. If by chance there is something that you can think of that isn?t available, there are many stores and companies that will custom create items for you as well, just ask!

Are you running around? Literally? No problem. In cold or warm climes, you can find an array of t-shirts, sweatshirts, shorts, sweatpants, socks, and windbreakers that show your school?s logo and colors, along with hats and sweatbands.

If you?re traveling by plane or train, you can find backpacks, duffle bags, purses, computer bags, and tote bags that show off your school spirit. Toss in a college logo robe and some slippers to feel totally at home on the road. No matter how you get there, you can show the world you?re a fan!


About the Author:

Cathy Peterson writes about Luggage Online Coupons, Luggage Coupons and Deals and Online Coupon Codes.




Wednesday, February 4, 2009

Greater Washington D.C. A Great Place to Live

Metropolitan D.C. & Northern Virginia -- A great place to live

According to Northern Virginia Association of Realtors' Realtor Update Magazine, recent statistics show that the D.C. Region is the Place to Live, Learn, Thrive

The report points to the 2006 Regional Report by the Greater Washington Initiative which states that the Washington Metro area was among the best in the nation in 2005 in terms of job cration, economic growth and quality school systems. Greater Washington is now the fourth most populous metropolitan region in the nation, trailing only New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago!

The article details that unlike those areas, the Washington D.C. metro population is expected to increase 8.5 percent by 2010

Greater Washington generated 270,800 jobs during the past five years, more than any other major meto area, with an unemployment rate of 3.4% in 2005, far below the national average of 5.1%. Thirteen of the area's high schools are in Newsweek's Top 100 ranking. Greater Washington has a higher percentage of PhDs than any other metro area.

Ours is also a region of great diversity. Fairfax County has a higher density of foreign-born residents than Chicago, New York, or San Francisco. Minorities will comprise 46 percent of the population in Greater Washington by 2010. Twenty percent of area residents speak a language at home besides English.

Greater Washington's 2005 median household income was $72,799 -- the wealthies of any large metro area.

All those statistics confirm what many of us already knew -- Northern Virginia is a great place to live. That's why owning a home here is a great investment!

For additional information about the report visit http://www.greaterwashington.org

Brian Block is a Realtor with RE/MAX Allegiance in Alexandria, Virginia and a real estate attorney in Northern Virginia. He can be reached by e-mail at brian@brianblock.com. Find out the latest about the Northern Virginia real estate market at http://www.virginiarealestatenews.com and visit Brian's website at http://www.brianblock.com for the latest homes on the market.

Tuesday, February 3, 2009

Steel Building FAQs

Some of the common types of steel buildings found are agricultural buildings, aircraft-hangars, churches, schools, retail buildings, gymnasiums, commercial buildings, institutional buildings, sports centers, riding arenas, self storage units and warehouses.

1. Is erecting steel buildings a cost effective option?

Yes, a steel building is a cost effective solution when compared with traditional building methods. Customers can save considerable time by erecting steel buildings.

2. What are steel buildings made from?

Steel buildings are constructed with heavy gauge steel for additional strength. Some are made in red-iron and solid I-beam commercial grade steel.

3. What are the benefits of using steel buildings?

Steel buildings require less maintenance. They are durable and inexpensive than most construction materials. Steel buildings are light weight and fire retardant. They can also withstand unfavorable weather conditions such as heavy snow, tornadoes, hurricanes and earthquakes. These buildings prevent rusting and rotting.

4. Are color options available in steel buildings?

A wide range of color options and panel of shades are offered. Customers can choose colors according to their taste.

5. What are the components supplied?

Ceiling lights, windows, doors, vents, porticos, skylights, breeze ways and wall lights are some of the components provided for steel buildings.

6. Who will help to erect a steel building?

Some people erect their steel buildings themselves. Most of the suppliers provide an easy to follow instruction manual along with the components and parts of the steel building. By following the instructions, the steel building can be easily erected. Companies also provide professional contractors to erect the steel building.

7. Are steel buildings insulated?

Different types of insulation solutions with a range of R-values are available in the market.

8. Does the manufacturer offer warranty for the buildings?

Most of the steel building companies come attached with some kind of warranty programs on their buildings. Some suppliers offer warranty on the different components and parts.

http://www.a1steelbuildings.com/commonquestions.html

http://www.afjconstruction.com/faq/faq.htm

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http://steelwise.com/swfaq.asp

http://www.crownsteelbuildings.com/steelbuildingsFAQ.htm

Steel Buildings provides detailed information on Steel Buildings, Commercial Steel Buildings, Pre-Fabricated Steel Buildings, Steel Storage Buildings and more. Steel Buildings is affiliated with Metal Building Kits.

Monday, February 2, 2009

Maximize Brand Recognition: Signature Brand

Who do you know? The signature trademark on a product gets recognition, because we recognize the signature. Effective branding using signatures has been used for generations, from Paul Newman salad dressings to Eddie Bauer vehicles, signature-branding results in brand recognition. Using a well-known name on your product maximizes the recognition factor, by acknowledging a well-known name; you gain marketing power with the popularity of the person you tribute.

Developing a product for your business often means finding an appropriate name for the product. Once your name becomes recognized, the best name for the product is a signature. When you sign a product, the signature indicates value. Putting your name on a product implicates trust, and brings acceptance by the buyer, because you value the product enough to stamp your signature of approval on it.

Maximize brand recognition of your product with a Signature Brand.

A functional brand identification mark represents a product in many ways. Maximum benefit of name requires that your name have power behind it. Are you a professional in some arena? Do you excel in a particular field of study? Have you a claim to fame? Are you an expert in your field? Perhaps your name brings shivers to the unsuspecting soul who uses it? Or maybe you understand the power behind using your name to develop a trusting relationship between yourself and your consumer?

Position yourself as an Expert in your Field.

Use your skills to promote yourself to expert status in your chosen field. Through article marketing, writing reports, creating recognition, and becoming specialized in your niche, you become recognizable. As a recognizable entity, you develop professional clarity and power within a specific market. Brand recognition depends on your ability to market your product with knowledge and credibility. By adding a professional imprint of your signature brand on your product; you create a powerful statement about the value and quality of the product.

Develop Internet presence and acknowledgment with familiarity.

When a consumer recognizes a name online, they feel comfortable with the products sold by that person. Similar to an old friend, your product becomes a comfortable part of that consumer?s life. The simple process of networking creates familiarity of your name online. You make friends, you become known for a specific product or service, and your business becomes successful because people know who to call when they want what you offer.

Empower yourself with the familiarity of recognition. Be a known entity on the Internet by networking your way into the hearts of your consumer. Participate in conversations, offer advice in your field, create a stir in the market with your expertise and share the value of information. Get known by getting to know others. The more people you know, the more likely you are to be known.

If your want your product to stand out in a crowd of generic developments, stamp a your signature on it. Bring your product the value and recognition of name brand, with a signature brand that maximizes the brand recognition factor.

Online Marketing Guru, Jan Verhoeff, specializes in Market Branding. Her knowledge of Brand Development and understanding of Online Marketing create an unusually successful relationship between recognition and identity. Visit http://brandyourmarket.com for valuable marketing concepts, powerful branding steps, and business development plans.


Sunday, February 1, 2009

Learn The Basics Of Muscle Building At Home

The concept of exercise usually brings us an image of different machines which are used as the tools to exercise. But can we have muscle building without weights? The answer is yes, we can have good muscles even without using these state of the art machines. The simplicity of these exercises without making any special arrangement or going to gyms makes these exercises more appealing.

Legs

Nature has designed the legs of the human being that help in moving the body weight. It would not be advatageous to put extra strain on the human legs that could seriously threaten their potency or strength. If we look at the structure of human legs we can clearly see the movement is fluctuating which could be harmful if it is not practiced appropriately. Human legs are rigid in their bowing from one side to another.

The first important activity, in which muscle building without weights is highly possible, is to carry out leg exercises called squats which are very helpful in gaining rich muscles. This demands an activity that is of a recurrent nature so one can build muscle without using weights. This very activity of making muscle without using weights can be done in many ways. We have the one-legged squat, boots trappers, bleacher squats, wall sits, lunges, off bench lunges, renegade lunges, dragon twisting and backward lunges.

Core Exercises

It is very apparent from the title that these are something which belong to all the muscles of the middle part of the body which clearly include abdomen, transverse and oblique abdomini, etc. Core bodyweight conditioning is meaningless for ordinary and less intensive exercises. The most widely used exercise for muscle building without weights nowadays is gymnastics which has stiffer and harder exercises and provides more strength and vigor, physically and mentally.

If we take a decent look over these exercises, we can see that planche rejuvenates arms, legs, head and almost everything so that it shakes the whole body to increase the level of energy in it. Apart from this, we have other core exercises like manna progression, front lever, back lever, dragon flags, sit-ups, air bike, junda sit-ups, hanging leg raises, wheel rollout, Russian twist, stomach flatten, scissor kick, side kicks, plank, side bends and waist twist.

Pressing

Pressing is also a very effective exercise which imparts immense strength in the human body, some of the major exercises which we can carry out are: triceps, biceps, pectoral, pushups, elevated push-ups, twisting push up, planche push-up, handstand holds, handstand shrugs, dips, dips swing, tiger bend, T-push ups on reverse push. These exercises are easy to perform and mighty effective. They can really constrict one?s muscle to a great extent and provide exuberance of energy and power in muscles.

Pulling

Pulling is mostly concerned with the upper part of body, like biceps, chest, wings, etc. Pulling includes numerous exercises which are immensely beneficial if you are looking for muscle building without weights. Here are some of the major exercises which we can safely include under this title of pulling. These are pull-ups, one hand pull-up, fingertip pull-ups, commando pull-ups, towel pull-ups, lever pull-ups, kipping pull-ups. Most of these exercises can be done on a tree branch, rope or monkey bar. One thing which must be borne in mind while doing all these stunts is that one should concentrate on the muscle which he or she is pulling to make stronger.

There are also some other useful exercises like hands, necks and ply metrics, etc. which could be helpful as well at times. After going through all the major exercises, the question whether muscle building without weights can be achieved or not is answered. Go ahead with a home exercise plan and enjoy a strong healthy toned body.

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