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Today, the available selection of furniture for children is innovative and unique and goes far beyond the basic beds and dressers that have filled children’s rooms in the past. When you decorate your child’s room, consider his personality and his interests as you choose the best pieces. If possible, allow your child to help pick out the childrens furniture he will have in his room.

First, decide on a theme or color scheme for decorating. Beds and other furnishings for children can be found to match a number of designs. Some beds are even available as race cars, fire trucks, or princess castles. You may opt for a bed that fits the theme you’ve chosen or you can buy a simple bed and match the room’s design with a children’s bedding set in a similar theme or color.

To ensure a good night’s sleep for both you and your little one, choose a bed and bedding set that your child likes. Also make sure the bed is comfortable, sturdy, and appropriately sized. Small children who have just graduated from a crib or cot may feel safer in a small bed that is low to the floor. Optional bed rails are a good idea until your little one gets used to sleeping in her new room.

A dresser or small chest of drawers is typically a useful piece of children’s furniture for storing clothing and accessories. Look for a dresser that is sturdy and made of a quality material like wood. Drawers that sit low to the ground are best for young children who may try to climb on the furniture and a model that is not easy to tip over will be safer. Many dressers can be found in a matching set of furniture for your child’s bedroom, including the bed and often end tables.

Children usually have a large collection of books. Find a short bookcase in a colorful design to hold his treasured books, as well as other toys and figures. A desk or small table with chairs can provide a good, solid surface for your child to play and work on. Child-sized chairs and surfaces are great for art activities, homework, or playing with puzzles. Many tables and desks are designed around themes that may fit your child’s bedroom decor, like primary colored animals or soft, pastel flowers.

Every child’s bedroom needs plenty of sturdy storage for toys. Todays toy boxes are just as varied and unique as children’s beds. Deep, wooden toy bins are perfect for storing large toys, while toy boxes with multiple bins of various sizes are good for smaller toys. Some toy boxes offer shelved storage as well for toys like puzzles or to display a favorite collection of cars or horses. Find a toy box that will make it simple for your child to clean his room and to find a particular toy after it is put away.

Consider your child and his activity level when you purchase furniture. Children often climb, so kids furniture [http://www.monkeyshine.co.uk/index.asp?function=DISPLAYCAT&catid=64] that is low to the ground will minimize injuries. Many children can be rough on furniture as well. Look for quality built furniture designed specifically for children to stand up to a child’s wear and tear. Most importantly, decorate your child’s room with furniture he likes.

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Childcare training is needed before working as a childcare expert. Whether it will be an educator or an actual care provider for children, being trained with these programs are helpful for these future experts in carrying out procedures needed by kids.

The good thing about these programs is it is possible for people to take three types of programs to meet the school’s requirements. There are different types of programs available for everyone who would like to know more about these procedures.

Online training programs
These training programs are the most chosen by people today especially for those who would like to shift career. Online childcare training programs will be suitable for people who think of taking this course at their own pace. Aside from pace, doing this will also help students take the programs based on their schedules. Some of these individuals are now working and just like to study even if they maintain their current job and in preparation for their childcare career.

Classroom program
People can take this typical training program especially if they want to do laboratory work or practical examinations before working as one of these experts. An instructor will help them train in learning all the needed skills. The good thing about this type for childcare training is it can give students a hands-on experience in doing the job. More options are available for people since it’s a common program that schools offer.

Other types of programs available in the field
Typically, training programs given by schools or other facilities for people who would like to be childcare experts. However, there are also some programs that can be used by parents even while at home. These will help them prepare on various things including emergencies and medical problems. Childcare training programs that focus on these activities will help parents to be more focused even on cases of emergencies while doing needed procedures. These will also be helpful in childproofing a home to prevent accidents resulting to different problems. Usually, these programs can be found from government offices offering childcare.

In conclusion, there are different types of programs that will suit the needs of everyone. Whether they are parents or who want to be a childcare expert, there would always be the right program that will suit their needs. Make sure to search online for different schools and government offices that extend childcare services to the community.

Childcare Training Info Center has everything you need to make your life easier as you begin your career as a childcare professional. The site features state specific training requirements for early childhood education and a step-by-step overview of a typical hiring process, potential employers and interviews to help you get hired. And it also provide a complete range of accredited childcare courses and childcare workers.

Fifty million home-based businesses will be in operation by 1997, according to Link Resource’s National Work-at Home Survey. All around the country, people who want more control over their lives are starting home businesses In New Orleans, Rick Hart’s home based cajun Cargo ships seafood nation wide. In Palatine, Illinois, Stephaine Heavey works from home designing and selling original patterns for fabric dolls. And in Dallas, Lisa McElya published the Dallas Party & Event Planners Guidebook from the entire first floor of her two-story home. These three people are living the new American dream of owning a business, but avoiding the high overhead and start-up costs of a commercial location. If the idea of working from home is appealing, but you don’t know where to begin, here is a step-by-step guide. STEP #1 DECIDE WHAT PART OF THE HOUSE TO USE Select an area away from family activity. The perfect space is a separate room (or perhaps the garage), but any area will do, if it can hold all the business supplies and equipment, and also provide enough work space for desks, tables, or counters. STEP #2 DETERMINE HOW MUCH TIME YOU CAN SPEND ON THE BUSINESS Many people start a home business on a part-time basis while raising children or working outside the home. Others start full-time when family and finances allow. However you begin, figure out how may hours per week you can devote to the business Make a weekly chart of your activities, examine it, and determine where the business fits. Don’t assume you have time and find out later you don’t. STEP #3 DECIDE ON THE TYPE OF BUSINESS Make a list of things you like to do, your work and volunteer experience, and items you own that can be used in a business. Look over this line-up, and using ideas from it, list possible businesses to start. Eliminate any business that isn’t appealing or doesn’t fill a need people have. For ideas on different types of businesses, consult the end of this article. Other ideas can be found in the source material listed at the end of this article. STEP #4 CHOOSE A LEGAL FORM The three basic legal forms are sole proprietorship, partnership, and corporation. The most common is the sole proprietorship. As its name implies, a sole proprietorship is owned by one individual. It is the oldest form of business, the easiest to start, and the least complicated to dissolve. Here are some of the advantages of this business form: 1. You own all the profits

2. Your business is easy and cheap to organize. You don’t need any government approval, although you may be required to carry a city, state or county license. Your only other obligation is to notify the Internal revenue Service (IRS) for the purposes of sales tax.

3. You’re the boss

4. You enjoy certain tax savings. You must pay regular individual taxes on your income, property, and payroll, but these are not levied as special taxes, as with a corporation. You will also have to pay sales tax which you have received from your customers.

5. Greater personal incentive and satisfaction. Since you have your investment to lose if your business is not successful, you should be more willing to put time, thought, and energy into the business. And when your business is successful, you enjoy maximum sense of accomplishment since you know its success was dependent upon your decisions about your management ability alone. For more information about this and other forms of business, send for the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) Publication MP25. Selecting the Legal Structure for Your BUsiness (50 cents). It outlines the advantages and disadvantages of each legal type of structure. If after reading it you are still uncertain what form of the business should take, consult an attorney. STEP #5 DETERMINE WHERE THE MONEY WILL COME FROM There are three ways to finance start-up costs: use your own money, obtain a loan, or find investors. If possible, it is better to start small, use your savings, and not worry about repaying a debt. also keep in mind that since you are a home-based, chances of qualifying for a loan or finding investors are slim until the success of your idea is proven. STEP #6 GATHER INFORMATION Spend a few weeks researching home-based businesses. A library or bookstore can provide numerous books on business basics, and on the specific type of business that interest you. Homemade Money by Barbara Brabee (see sources) is an excellent book to start with. If you are considering a computer business, get in touch with the association of Electronics; Cottagers, P.O. Box 1738, Davis, CA 95617-1738. To keep informed of what is happening in home business world, contact National Home Business report, P.O. Box 2137, Naperville, IL 60566, for subscription information; and Mothers Home Business Network, P.O. Box 423, East Meadow, NY 11554 (send SASE for free information). STEP #7 CHECK ON ZONING RESTRICTIONS Find out how your property is zoned, the call City Hall and ask what regulations apply to home businesses in that zone. Also, if you rent or live in a condominium, check the lease or homeowner’s association rules to be certain a home business is allowed. Generally, if you do not annoy your neighbors with excess noise, odors, and traffic, you will not be deterred from running a business at home. The neighbors may not even be aware of the business, but it is necessary to know exactly what you can and can’t do before you start. This is important should any problems or questions arise later. STEP #8 PICK A BUSINESS NAME AND REGISTER IT If the business you choose is different form your name, file an assumed (or fictitious) name certificate with the county. You are notified if another business already has that name, so you can select a new one. Do this before investing in expensive stationery and brochures. It costs only a few dollars to file, and it protects the business name from being used by someone else in the county. STEP #9 WRITE A BUSINESS PLAN A good business plan clarifies your ideas and establishes a plan of action. A good business plan should include a description of what you are selling, your background and qualifications, who the prospective customers are and where they can be found, what is needed to build the business, how you plan to promote, and how much money is need for start-up costs. SBA Publication #M925, The Business Plan for Home-Based Business ($1) is helpful. STEP #10 GET AN IDENTIFYING NUMBER If you are the sole proprietor of the business and have no employees, you may either use your Social Security number or an Employee Identification Number (EIN) as the business number on official forms. If you have employees, or the business is set up as a partnership or corporation, you must obtain an EIN. To do this, complete IRS Form SS-4 (Application for Employer Identification Number) and file it with the nearest IRS Center. STEP #11 OBTAIN A SALES TAX PERMIT If the product or service you sell is taxable, you need a state sales tax permit. Call the local tax agency, explain the type of business you have and what you sell, and ask if you need to collect sales tax. If you do, they will send you the necessary information and forms to complete. You also use this tax number when your purchase items for resale. STEP #12 OBTAIN LICENSES & PERMITS It’s very important not to overlook any necessary license or permit. For example, some cities and counties require a general business license, and most have special laws regarding the preparation and sale of food. Call City Hall to find out what is need for your particular business. In addition, Chamber of Commerce provide information on city, county and state licenses and permits. STEP #13 SELECT BUSINESS CARDS, STATIONERY, BROCHURES Spend time on the color, design and paper for these items. They make a definite impression-good or bad- on the people who receive them. If you are not certain what is most suitable and effective, consult a graphics designer or a creative printer whose work you like. STEP #14 OPEN A BUSINESS CHECKING ACCOUNT Call several banks to find out what services they offer, and what minimum balance, if any, must be maintained to avoid paying a service charge. Also ask about credit card if you plan to offer this convenience to your customers. Bank fees can be significant, so shop around for the best deal. If your personal checking account is with a credit union, see if it can also provide a separate business account. when you open your account, you may need to show the assumed name certificate and business license. Finally, investigate obtaining a credit card in the business’s name. If this is not possible, set aside a personal credit card to use for business expenses. STEP #15 SET UP RECORD-KEEPING SYSTEMS Put together a simple and effective bookkeeping system with an 8 1/2 x 11″ three-ring binder, columnar pad sheets and twelve pocket dividers from the office supply store. For each month, set up columnar sheets for income and expenses. Use a pocket divider for each month’s receipts, bank statement, deposit tickets, and canceled checks. In addition, an automobile log for business mileage, and filing system for correspondence, invoices, supplier catalogs, client records, etc. are two other useful tools. For more information on record-keeping, see IRS publication #583, Information for Business taxpayers. STEP #16 CHECK IRS REQUIREMENTS If you comply with basic IRS guidelines, you can deduct a percentage of normal household expenses (mortgage, interest, taxes, insurance, utilities, repairs, etc.) as a business expense. see the box accompanying this article and, for more detailed information, IRS publication #587, Business Use of the Home. Also become familiar with these IRS forms: Schedule SE (compensation of Social Security Self-Employment Tax) and Schedule 1040 ES (estimated Tax for Individuals). Depending on circumstances, you may have to file them. STEP #17 OUTFIT THE BUSINESS Make a list of everything needed to start the business, but before you buy anything, look around the house for things you already own that are usable. When you are ready to start purchasing, check the classified ads and garage sales. Both are good, inexpensive sources for office furniture, typewriters, computers, answering machines, etc. But only what is absolutely necessary for start-up, and wait until the business is off the ground to get the extras. STEP #18 DECIDE ON TELEPHONE REQUIREMENTS Call the telephone company to find out the cost of a business phone in your area. If you cannot afford a separate business line, investigate the telephone company’s regulations on using your personal phone in a business. It may be possible to do this if you follow certain guidelines. Keep a record of long distance business calls as they are a deductible expense. Finally, consider the benefits of an answering machine to catch calls when you are out. STEP #19 CHECK OUT THE POST OFFICE & UPS Using a post office box as the business address down plays the fact you are home-based. It also prevents customers from dropping in at all hours. While looking into box rental, ask for information on the various postal rates, particularly bulk rate, if you plan to do large or specialized mailings. If you mail many packages, check out United Parcel Service (UPS), as it is less expensive than the Post Office. STEP #20 PURCHASE THE NECESSARY INSURANCE Check with your homeowners insurance agent about a rider for your existing policy or the need for a separate business policy. Also make sure you have adequate personal and product liability coverage. Shop around, as each company has different rules regarding home businesses To save money on medical insurance, join an association and participate in their group plan. One such body is The National association for the Self-Employed: they can be reached at 800-527-5504. STEP #21 ORGANIZE THE HOUSE & YOURSELF To have more time for business, organize and simplify household routines. Start by holding a garage sale to get rid of unnecessary possessions. Next, have a family conference and divide household duties, making sure each person does his or her part. The, set up a planning notebook to keep track of appointments, things to do, calls to make, errands to run, shopping, etc. Finally, set up a work schedule so you won’t get sidetracked by TV, neighbor’s visits, snacking, and telephone calls. Creating and operating a home business is a wonderful and rewarding challenge. The satisfaction is not only in the money earned, but in doing what makes you happy.

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Julia Tang publishes Smart Online Business Tips, a fresh
and informative newsletter dedicated to supporting people
like you! To find out the best online business opportunities,
and to discover hundreds more proven and practical internet
marketing secrets, plus FREE internet marketing products
worth over $200, visit: http://www.best-internet-businesses.com
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My little nine year old girl started playing soccer last summer. It all started with pure fun, but after playing for a year now, it is evident that team sports really benefit a child’s growth.

When she began playing indoor soccer last summer, her coach complimented her athleticism and suggested that we should allow her to join the league for proper training and coaching in order for a better future. Even though it was quite challenging for her at first, since she hardly knew anyone on the team, her passion motivated her to keep playing. Through the process, she learned to make new friends and accept others. It was an excellent way to develop social skills for the years to come.

Besides learning to mingle, she learned how to listen and obey. Sometimes, I wish I could have the power of the coach to make her listen and follow my instructions without any questioning. One must show your ability and authority in order for the kids to trust in what you said.

What’s more, she learned the golden lesson, “practice makes perfect”. Success does not come in vain. Not only did she have to practice twice a week, but play an actual game as well. Needless to say, the star players on the team were usually the ones who were present at every practice. You may have talent, but practice is what makes full potential of the talent you have. Your harvest depends on how well you’ve farmed.

Of course, she grew physically stronger and more enduring with each game and practice as well. With all the junk food the kids are eating nowadays, exercise is crucial to part of their healthy development.

Last but not least, she learned how to embrace failure and always do her best in each game. While winning is an amazing experience, the game is about how you’ve proved yourself and how well you have done. Winning is just an empty feeling when no hard work was put forth and no team work was shown. Failures are inevitable in life. It is good to learn early how to accept it, learn from it, and move on.

My daughter is now begging to play basketball in the upcoming season just because one of her friends is playing also, but I convinced her otherwise. If she had quit soccer, then what was all the sweat and tears for? She had just begun improving and excelling in soccer that it would be a waste to just quit. Perseverance is another key to success. My little child got ALL that from just playing soccer for one season, what about your kids?

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Since we have become such a celebrity driven culture, I thought it might be amusing to imagine what it might be like to be a celebrity. Consider this like taking a vacation from your everyday life. This is not to advocate that you become a celebrity or pursue a lifestyle of glamour and fame, when simplifying your life may lead to more satisfying long term benefits in difficult economic times. Rather it is to enjoy thinking about being a celebrity, much as you might add an occasional celebration or fantasy experience into your life.

It is like putting on a costume or mask so you become someone else on Halloween. Well, this is an experience of imagining yourself as any celebrity you want to be. To do so, you create or imagine events and activities to experience the celebrity lifestyle by yourself or with some friends and associates. Here are some tips to get you started, though written in a somewhat tongue in cheek style, which you can take seriously or not. Just have fun with the idea of being a celebrity for a day.

Creating Your Name and Persona

First, create a name or persona for yourself. Imagine you could be anyone – a movie star, a TV star, a rock star. And in reality, today the transformation from everyday citizen to well-known celebrity isn’t so far away. Just think of how Joe the Plumber got known by asking Obama a few pointed questions at a campaign stop. Consider how an ordinary mother – well, not so ordinary – got known as Octomom by having eight babies. Recall how an eccentric scientist got his fame by sending up a silver helium balloon that looked like a UFO and claiming his son was missing and might be on it. It was a big publicity stunt that backfired – but it got him in the news.

So take a moment to think of who you’d like to be – and think big, like the big names in the news do. See yourself as larger than life, and your name is in lights. And don’t try to think or analyze too hard. Just go with whatever first pops into your mind. Then, whoever that person is, imagine yourself on your way to becoming very famous.

On Your Way to the Top

Next, think about what you might do to get to the top. Some celebrities break through because they are part of a famous family, like Kate Hudson, the daughter of Goldie Hawn. Another is Paris Hilton, the daughter of the Hiltons hotel clan. Though she had help from a notorious sex video of herself with her then boyfriend, having the famous name certainly helped. It wasn’t just a sex tape by anyone.

But most celebrities do something that gets themselves in the news, if they aren’t already famous by having a starring part in the movies or on TV. For example, Chesley B. “Sully” Sullenberger was just another pilot from Danville California, until he landed a US Air plane in the Hudson River in January 2009, after it encountered a flock of geese – and he was hailed as a hero for saving all 155 people aboard.

So now imagine your own story of what you did that made you famous. It could be something you really have done, or it could be something you’d like to do in reality. Or think of some wild, crazy, and outrageous thing to do to make yourself stand out and make the news.

Next, once you do whatever it is to stand out, you need the press to make you famous. So imagine the press descending and asking you questions about what you have done. They’re yelling and screaming, pushing and shoving, because they want to get near to you and talk to you. For you are the center of this excitement. You see mikes being pushed at you, flashing cameras going off, and it’s very exciting that everyone wants to talk to you.

Next imagine what they are asking and what you might say. Just a line or two. That’s all they want. About a 10-15 second sound clip they can use on the evening news. So think of something short and witty to say.

Then, as a celebrity, the next stop is usually the TV talk show circuit. So imagine you are doing that. See yourself being a guest on all the big shows – you’re on Oprah and everyone in the audience is clapping and cheering. Then, you’re on Good Morning America, and the cameramen are adjusting the mikes. Next stop – the View with Barbara Walters, Elizabeth Hasselbeck, Joy Behar, and Whoopie Goldberg, and they’re oohing and aahing over all you have done. After that, you’re face to face with Larry King, who smiles as he tugs on his suspenders and asks you to tell him about you.

So go on, tell everyone what you have done, what you like, how you’re surprised by your sudden fame, and how much you’re enjoying the experience. The idea is to be humble, while you strut your stuff and celebrate you.

Who You Need Around You

Next, once you’re a celebrity, the deals start pouring in, so see yourself getting buckets of mail at your door from fans and deal makers. Then your phone starts ringing off the hook, with dozens of offers to be on this show, appear at that celebration, endorse this product, attend that gala opening. What do you do?

Of course, you need a lawyer to help you sort through this all, so imagine you are meeting with a series of lawyers. Each one proclaims all the great things he or she is going to do for you or has done for someone else. So now you have to decide which lawyer to choose for better or worse.

And, naturally, the next thing you need is a manager or agent, or maybe both to help you decide what offers to take and for how much. And maybe your lawyer can help you decide what manager, agent, or both will help your celebrity career the most. So imagine you are making your choice, and then your manager, agent, or both are giving you some ideas on what to do next. For example, he or she can arrange some endorsements. Maybe you might appear in a film or in a walk-on part on TV. You can pick out your favorite show and see yourself making a guest appearance on that.

Then, since you’re getting so many offers but still want more, the next logical person you need on your team is a publicist. So see yourself with a parade of publicists coming to your door, telling you how they are going to publicize you. In fact, they, along with your agent, manager, and lawyer may have some ideas about branding, whereby you create a whole package around your name. Your brand will include a line of CDs, maybe clothing or make-up, a doll with your image, a video workshop, even a Happy Meal for kids featuring your smiling face.

And of course, there will be a book. You don’t even have to write it yourself. Just pick a ghostwriter, give him or her the gist of what you want to say, plus a little information about you, and voila. In a few weeks you’ll have your book with your name on it. And if you have time, you might even read it – or let your agent, manager, or publicist do that, so they can tell you if they like the book, and if it sounds like you. Then, besides promoting whatever you did to get famous, your publicist will promoting your book and the rest of your celebrity product line.

Now, since you’re making so much money from your branding campaign, plus your endorsements and book, you need a financial planner and stock broker to help you properly manage all your money. So you meet with them, and they give you all kinds of advice. Invest in this. Invest in that. Don’t buy bonds; stick to stocks. Try a hedge fund. Or how about a mutual fund? Plus now you qualify for a private banker, who will help to manage your funds at their bank.

Your New Lifestyle

This might be a good time to imagine buying a luxury home, too. After all, you have a celebrity image to maintain, so go look with a real estate broker who handles high-priced properties – because now it’s only the best for you. So you go looking for big mansions on a hill or behind gated walls with dozens of acres around them. Your new home will have a huge living room, big patio deck, and an expansive kitchen for all your entertaining. Maybe you’ll even have your own screening room for your private film showings.

And what’s a new luxury house without your first party? So you might imagine that all your celebrity friends are arriving for a big shindig at your house. And since you’re now famous and rich, you’ll see lots of A-list celebrities there – Brad Pitt, Angela Jolie, Donald Trump, Jay Leno, David Letterman – no scratch David Letterman. You can’t have anyone with a touch of scandal, since that could rub off on you. But the best and the brightest names are there. So just enjoy your own celebrity party – and now you have the budget, so you can afford it.

Then the invitations to go to celebrity parties start pouring in, too. You have your pick of the best of the best to attend, or maybe the gala where you’ll make the biggest splash. So go ahead and choose a party to attend for a big film opening or a charity bash, because as a celebrity, it’s good to choose a cause to show you’re not all about money, fame, and glamour, but you have a heart of gold to help others, too.

But wait! Before you go, you have to get the finest fashions. You have to look the part of a celebrity, too. So you head off to Nordstrom’s or an expensive fashionable boutique with a designer name, like Versace, Armani, Gucci, Tommy Hilfiger, Donna Karan, or Calvin Klein. After all, you need to dress to impress now, and the cost no longer means anything to you. So you can easily spend a few thousand wherever you go, whatever it takes to look like the celebrity that you are.

Now you see yourself going to one of these openings or charity galas, and you’re dressed in your finest finery – an expensive tux if you’re a guy, a beautiful gown if you’re a woman. Then, as you walk down the red carpet, the photographers are snapping pictures, the cameramen are rolling film, and the fans are reaching out with their pictures for you to sign. So, of course, you graciously stop, smile, and sign, as the cameras snap and roll away.

Afterwards, you go to a trendy restaurant, where you can order whatever you want. First, a waiter comes by with the finest wines, and you have a quick taste before you decide to order the one you like best. Then, you enjoy all your favorite dishes, brought to you in elegant silver bowls and platters. And across from you is your partner or family members, since they now feel like celebrities, too, because once you’re a celebrity, whomever you see or know well will become newsworthy, too, just by being with or related to you.

Now savor the experience of being a celebrity. Enjoy it. Imagine that you could really have this celebrity lifestyle if you wanted it. Or do you? Would you really like that celebrity life? Or would you rather be back to being who you are now?

Gini Graham Scott, Ph.D. is the author of over 50 books and a seminar and workshop leader, specializing in work relationships and professional and personal development. Her latest books include PLAYING THE LYING GAME, WANT IT, SEE IT, GET IT!, ENJOY! 101 LITTLE WAYS TO ADD FUN TO YOUR WORK EVERYDAY, and 17 TOP SECRETS ON HOW TO KEEP YOUR JOB OR FIND NEW WORK TODAY. She is also a screenplay writer and indy film producer, with several projects under development and in post production. She writes books and script for clients, too.

For more information, her Website for books is at http://www.ginigrahamscott.com, for films at http://www.changemakersproductions.com.

Have you taken up hiking as a new form of family recreation?

Are you a serious hiker that spends hours on challenging trails?

Do you want to find a way to become more involved in hiking

across the nation? Hikers of any background will want to check

out the “American Hiking Society”. This society is an alliance

of local hiking clubs and provides a wealth of resources and

activities for hikers of any background.

They have a bounty of events to choose from including National

Trails Day and Winter Trails Day. Thousands of trail events are

held across the nation in June and January encouraging hikers to

get involved in conservation and other hiking activities. For

example, during the Winter Trails Day hikers can learn how to

snowshoe, cross country ski, and many other winter activities

along the hiking trails. It is a great way to meet up with

fellow hikers and experience the richness and fun of hiking.

Hikers can also participate in volunteer vacations, jobs, and

internships. During 2005 they planned 1-2 week volunteer trips

where hikers can lend a hand in building footpaths, cabins, and

shelters. Hikers will not only be able to bond with their

fellow hikers, but add value to the beauty of the hiking

experience for others. It is a learning experience that is

priceless.

Do you hike because you are trying to increase your fitness?

The American Hiking Association has found the hiking trails just

for you. They have identified the top ten “fitness” trails all

across the country. These trails are sure to give you a great

workout. Plus, you can skip the confines and boredom of your

regular gym workout. The majority of the trails are situated on

the East and West coasts. A trail overview including length and

terrain are provided. This will help you to get started on your

fitness hike.

Want to find other hikers in your area? Looking for a local

hiking club to join? Not sure where to look? You’re in luck

because the American Hiking Association offers a national trails

directory from which you can find a hiking group near you.

Contact information for local hiking clubs is available on their

website.

Need new hiking gear for your next trip? Searching for a book

on trail information? The American Hiking Association has a

hiking store with gear, maps, guides, and trail tools. Best of

all, if you become a member, you will receive a discount on your

purchase. A portion of you purchase will be set aside for trail

conservation. Skip searching around piece meal for hiking gear

and head to their online hiking store that will have everything

you need.

The American Hiking Association is a one stop shop for all your

hiking needs. Become a member today and boost your hiking

experience. Connect with local hikers, volunteer, and become

involved in the hiking community. For more information and how

to join, check out their website at http://www.americanhiking.org/

Monica Marty is a hiking fan and the webmaster of http://hikingtrailfinder.com/ where you will find a directory and information on Hiking

Knowing only a few basic fly fishing knots can help you limit the number of stories you have about “the one that got away…”. Sometimes a fisherman who is rushing to get their line in the water will tie a knot that is simply not strong enough to hold a larger than expected fish. On the other hand, many take the time to tie their best knot but simply do not know enough to tie it properly. Whether the knot is meant to hold the line to the rod or to attach the fly the strength of the fly fishing knot can make all the difference in how your next fishing tale begins.

The arbor knot is one fo the most commonly used fly fishing knots. It is used to secure the fly line to the arbor of the reel. To tie a strong arbor knot you need to wrap the line around the spool and tie an overhand knot around the line. Then tie a second overhand knot a few inches past the first knot.

Lightly wet the line and pull the second knot tight. Hold the spool in one hand and pull the line with tight with the other. The first knot will prevent the line from skipping through the second knot. The end can be trimmed and the reel can be loaded with line. The wet line will provide lubrication and help form tighter fly fishing knots.

Knots for Flies With Bent Eyes

One of the other fly fishing knots used most often is the turle knot, used to attach flies to the line. Pass the lead end of the line through the eye of the fly and then make at least two wraps around the standing line, passing the leading end through the now formed loop, which forms an overhand knot. Once you pull this snug, you can pass the fly through the large remaining loop, tighten it down and trim the extra line. This type of fly fishing knots allows the fly to move more realistically on the water.

One of the keys to tying successful fly fishing knots is to moisten the line with saliva or lake water before tying the knot. This will lubricate the line making it easier to pull taught. When the line dries it will be stronger than a line that was tied dry.

Be careful when tying a thin line. If you pull the knots too tight the line will break. Before casting any line onto water make sure to check the strength of your fly fishing knots by pulling on the line with at least as much pressure as you expect the line to hold.

Tips For The Fly Fishing Beginner

Some useful tips can help you get started as a fly fishing beginner. Fly fishing is an ancient sport dating back to Rome that has risen in popularity in recent years.

Fly Fishing: The Basics

Fly fishing is the sport of catching fish with hand tied lures, known as flies. These flies are often bits of feathers and fake fur, that are wound with brightly colored line to make them look more like real bugs. For the fly fishing beginner, there are numerous kits available that will walk you step by step through the fly tying process, so that you can create your own little works of art. The second thing that the fly fishing beginner needs to have is the right pole. Remember that a true fly rod is longer and heavier than a regular fishing pole. This is due largely to the fact that the fish you will be catching with your fly rod are much larger than the fish caught with regular fishing poles.

If you are a fly fishing beginner, it is probably a good idea to take a few casting classes prior to heading out on your very first fishing expedition. These casting classes will help you to learn the proper technique for allowing the wind to do most of the work for you when you cast your line. Although stronger than normal fishing line, the line used for fly fishing is much lighter. This allows the wind to carry the line further into the body of water where you are fishing, so that you can have an easier time of catching the skittish sport fish.

A guide can be very helpful if you are fly fishing for the very first time. They are trained specially to find the very best places for beginners to fish. They also help beginners develop a fishing technique, which will guide you for the rest of your fishing life. It may seem a bit extravagant to pay someone to teach you to fish, but it is an invaluable investment in a hobby which can serve you well your entire life.

You are starting out on a fabulous journey as a fly fisher. Most important of all, enjoy the experience and make sure your next catch doesn’t turn into “the one that got away!”

Rich Evans – The Fly Fishing Expert

Learn What EXPERT Fly Fishermen Know About Fly Fishing

[http://www.flyfishing-knots.com]

If you are the designer type and take pleasure in adding exclusive expressions in your house, you are perhaps elated regarding the prospect of including interesting elements in your child’s playroom or room. In effect, if you are not expert with designing distinctive styles, you can do minor adjustments for having that enduring effect within your kids room. When it comes to personalization and customization, the choices are endless. You can put wallpapers or paint for extra patterns and color. Among all, the most essential element is adding modern kids furniture in your child’s room.

There is a wide variety of options available in modern children furniture, such as beds and nursery, tables and desks, shelves and storage, activities and toys or my pet lamps for your children room. To select the right kind of kids furniture, there are certain points to consider, such as adaptability, fun and durability.

When picking modern kids furniture, durability is of utmost importance. Children play rough and it is feasible to purchase sturdy kids furniture for both boys as well as girls. You surely want something, which will stay for a longer period of time. Even if the kids do not share a room, the bunk bed is a good option, since it provides them more room to play with friends. Bunk bed can also be a great place for storing some belongings. These beds are generally built better because they are essentially meant to hold years of hiking in plus out of them.    

In addition, adaptability is a good consideration while buying children furniture. There are various convertible cribs, which are flexible enough to be converted into kids beds, twin beds and day beds, with support braces and mattresses. Fun is essential to children. There is numerous imaginative unique kids furniture accessible like the cars shaped beds, P’kolino clothing tree and EVA MINI foam chair.

When making a themed room, consider adding modern kids furniture [http://www.themodernkid.com] in fusion with other pieces for supporting the main kids furniture, such as kids table, kids chair or kids bed. It chiefly constitutes wall décor, wallpapers, my pet lamps or art, which will make the kids room appear cohesive. For instance, you can include an angora, piggy or a nautical lamp to a room with pirate theme. 

For small girls, the princess life can take a totally novel meaning with the modern kids room furniture. A P’kolino toddler bed and matching Bebe 2 Dresser with 5 drawers or Bebe 2 Cabinet with Shelves or canopied bed with vanity could work wonders and offer great fun play time to your small princess.

 

As your child grows, certainly so will the styles of modern kid’s furniture. Luckily, the modern children furniture comes in a huge variety of styles and designs for the adult kids too.

With considerate planning, the parents must always ensure safety guidelines for any equipment or modern kids furniture to which the kid will have access. When picking child furniture for your home, make sure you remember your kids interest as well as lifestyle. Select a bed and kids room furniture, which can grow with your child over time and can also be handled to their little sister or brother.

Ruth A Ford is an experienced interior designer. With her focus being on the use of modern kids furniture [http://www.themodernkid.com].

A used farm tractor is the perfect solution for a growing farm wanting to grow and cut costs at the same time. Used farm machines generally come with a much lower price tag then a brand new tractor for sale, but you still need to do your research and set your budget before you head out to look for used tractors around your area. A cost-effective solution for farms with less capital to purchase new tractors is to buy a compact tractor, which has the capabilities of completing many different farm jobs. Compact tractors also come in a variety of different engines, so you can pick the best size that is appropriate for the work you will be doing in your farm.

If you are worried about buying a lemon tractor, then you should purchase certified used tractors from reputable agricultural equipment companies like John Deere (my personal favorite), Kubota, Caterpillar, Farmall, and Case for example.

If you find that your farm work is much lighter, then purchasing a compact tractor might be the best option. Compact tractors come with many parts that let you do a variety of light farm work.

Where To Find Used Tractors For Sale

An experienced farmer or buyer of agricultural equipment like tractors can tell you that there is no real benefit of buying a new tractor over getting a used tractor for sale. While there are some clear benefits of getting a new tractor over a used tractor, both can equally get a good amount of work done.

The first places you should look to find used tractors for sale are Sears, local auctions, and local distributors of franchised agricultural tractor producers. You might be surprised that many farms in your area might be selling their used farm tractors to upgrade to a more heavy duty and technological advanced tractor.

Checklist For Buying A Used Farm Tractor

1. Spare Parts – Whatever you may choose, be sure to know about any replacement parts that need to be purchased frequently, so you know your average yearly investment in the used tractor.

2. Age – The age can give you a better estimate of what you can expect the price to be on the tractor, and you can keep this average with you so you know if your really getting a deal when its time to purchase the used tractor.

3. Engine Hours – This correlates with “age”, because you want to know how much life the tractor has left. Some used tractor sellers will sell you a machine that’s ready to work for a few months and then die. So do not just look at how the used tractor looks like in general, look under the hood!

4. History – Its best you know from the current owner what the used tractors jobs were around the farm and about many repairs it has undergone. Beware of lemon used tractors, always ask about the repair history and/or major damages done to the used tractor.

5. Make & Model – This is not as important, but some farmers have created a loyalty to some used tractor brands, such as John Deere. Ask friends and family about their personal experiences with used tractors, and you can even go to online forums for opinions on a specific used tractor model.

6. Cabin – If your used tractor is going to do a lot of jobs around the farm, you want to be sure that you are controlling the tractor with comfort!

7. 4WD vs. 2WD – Do you need more power or less power? This has to do with my talk about if your used tractor will be for light farm work or for heavy duty jobs. The price difference between the 2 can be quite significant, so be sure to sit down and think about this one.

To find out more about used john deere tractors [http://used-john-deere-tractors.com/] visit my website. Purchasing a tractor for a farm can become a big investment. Getting a brand new tractor can become a bigger investment than you planned. I will explain why buying a used tractor can be just as good as buying new. Read my article to learn where to look for used tractors and what things you need to look at during your intent to buy.

Buying a Classic Car requires thought, research and some planning. Classic cars are usually bought by enthusiasts to use and enjoy. It is not easy to make a profit from buying and selling classic cars.

Make a project plan and do your best to stick to it

You may see a tempting classic car restoration project listed in a newspaper or classic car magazine or on the Internet that may only be one or two thousand to buy and could be worth ten times as much once it is restored.

Practically though, have you the skills to carry out the restoration of the chassis, engine, interior, and the exterior ? If you need to find a specialist company to undertake some or all the work your ten times buy price may just come down to zero or very little profit indeed. Indeed in many cases the cost of restoration when added together will exceed the market value of the car. If you plan to keep the car and enjoy using it then this is perhaps an acceptable price to pay but do not expect to be able to sell the car at a profit particularly in todays “credit crunch” economy.

Before you start looking – do you have enough storage space ? Do you have enough working area (remember once stripped down, the bits can take up an awful lot of space). No old car likes to be kept out in the open, not even with a plastic sheet to protect it from the rain, frost and snow and even the worst masochist won’t like working out in the open when it is blowing a gale! Lying on a cold concrete garage floor is bad enough but working outside in all elements usually puts a restoration project on hold permanently ! 

Where to look for your classic car.

Look in the your local newspaper, classic car magazines, the Internet or even just take a stroll down your street. There is no shortage of old cars to buy. But what if you are looking for something special? Well, let’s face it, these days the easiest place to look is on the Internet.

Go to Classic Lots (link below) and you will find thousands of classic cars from a rusty Mini for £100 to a Ferrari for £500,000. This excellent site also includes all the classic cars available on Ebay.

Once you have identified the car that you want, read between the lines and look at the background of the pictures.You can learn a lot from what is not said as well as the way a description is written.

I am always cautious when it says “selling it for a friend” and yet there is no contact number for the friend so you can make personal contact. When the subject of mileage is omitted from the specification box and the description… why?

Keeping in touch with reality is essential. IF IN DOUBT – CHECK IT OUT!!!! Answer those niggling questions. In the pictures you can see what looks like oil on the ground. Is it from the car you are buying? Is that mud or rust?

Ask yourself four questions. Why do I want the car? How much can I really afford? How far do I want to travel to view or collect it? and then the most important question of all… Do I really know enough about these cars to commit X thousands of pounds on a piece of pretty (or perhaps rusty metal)?

So, buying a classic car on an online auction? Well, I would advise you to adopt the following rules before commencing such an undertaking, and before you make a bid !

Remember if you are the highest bidder (assuming if there is a reserve that it has been met ) and you win the auction then you have entered a legal contract to buy that vehicle (providing the seller has described the vehicle correctly).

Do not expect to go to collect the car and having viewed it to be able to haggle over the price or to walk away. Buyer beware, and if at all possible always view the car in person before you place your bids. If do not feel confident in being able to asses the condition of your prospective purchase take along someone who has the skills to give you an honest opinion of the condition of the vehicle. You may also wish to consider using the AA or RAC who both provide professional pre-purchase inspections – if the seller seems reluctant to allow this inspection walk away !

Viewing the car before bidding

If you have decided to go and see the car then arrange a viewing and if for any reason you can’t make it, let the seller know, it’s only courteous not to waste their time just as you don’t want them wasting your time.

Things to take: a jack, perhaps some axle stands for safety, a torch, gloves and at the very least, a list of points you want to look at.

When you get there take a quick look around. Has the car been kept outside or has it been garaged, this can give you a good indication of the condition you can expect of the body and or chassis. Are there other rotting hulks just lying around, maybe the seller just buys any old junk they can find and try selling it on, not much chance of the car you have come to see having had a service any time recently.

Take a walk around the car and look for the tell tale signs of sagging which could indicate suspension problems or perhaps chassis problems. Do the doors and panels line up correctly, another indication of chassis problems or perhaps the car has had a bump at some time. Is it even one car or was it once two? Any repairs? Have they been completed well or have the repairs been bodged? Do the tyres match? What condition are they in? Check for rot in the body or in fibre glass cars/panels, look for stress cracks. Check the areas which are most prone to rot ie. arches, sills, doors, boot and bonnet. There are many different types of panels that can be used to effect repairs on a car and because of this the quality of repairs can vary.

Check inside the car. Windows, front and rear screen, are any of them leaking? Is the headlining damaged or dirty? Lift the carpets where you can, check for water and any rot, maybe even holes in the floor? Check the floorpan and joints, don’t forget inside the boot, the floor and spare wheel area. If you are happy so far with the body etc. try the engine (you did check all around the engine compartment didn’t you?). Will the engine start from cold? If the engine is already warm perhaps the seller is trying to hide something, maybe cold starting problems, maybe he had to get a jump start or a tow just to get it going? Listen for any knocks, look for smoke. If you see blue smoke on startup that quickly clears it could mean the valves are tired and leaking oil into the combustion chambers. If the smoke does not clear that could indicate a very tired engine, something that will have to be added to the budget, not only for investigation but for the repairs.

Clouds of steam on startup could indicate a blown head gasket or even a cracked cylinder head. Remove the radiator cap and look for “goo”. It is cross contamination and a good giveaway of cylinder head problems. Black smoke, probably just an over rich mixture but could just as easily be a worn carburetter.

Knocking. Well, it could be for a number of reasons, light tapping on the top of the engine could be a worn camshaft or a small end on its way out. Knocking from underneath could be a big end bearing breathing its last. An expensive repair. A rumbling noise could be a main crank shaft bearing on its way out, yet another expensive repair. Check the various hydraulic fluids and water levels. Look for any stains around the compartment and on the engine. Does the radiator smell of anti-freeze? Is there any oil lying around? Not a good sign. Keep the engine running for a while, some problems won’t show up until the engine is warm. If the car is driveable, take it for a spin. How does it “feel” on the road, does it “pull” to the right or left? Is the clutch “spongy” or firm? Does braking throw the car into oncoming traffic? (eek!) Wiggle the steering wheel, any clunks? When you accelerate does the car lurch in any particular direction?

OK so far so good. Now, the car may be 20 or 30 years old so it is not going to have all original parts. Brake shoes, clutch, spark plugs, points etc.. if they are the original parts, they are not going to be working very well by now! But seriously, if you are looking at an older car, does it have any of the original panels? Is the interior original? These points can add value to the car but the seller may try to pass off parts which were made last year in China as “original parts”.

Check the paper work. Does it have all of the required paperwork with it? Check the logbook, a very good place to start and don’t be fobbed of with “We have just moved house and can’t find it at the moment, I will post it on to you..”. Never buy a vehicle without a logbook unless you know exactly what you are doing. It is also useful to have any old MOT certificates and any receipts are good as well.  

Valuing classic cars.

How much to pay? Well, the actual value of a classic car will vary considerably. It depends on condition, make, model, year and of course, what is it worth to you? Just how much would you pay to have that special car sitting on your drive at home?

Be realistic! Just because you can isn’t a good enough reason to buy a chassis of a 1926 Rolls Royce if you have no idea where to get the rest of the car and no idea of what to do with the parts if you can get them. Providing you followed the advice above on checking the car over, you should have a good idea of whether you are bidding for a car you can drive away or one that will take months before it even has wheels.

If you read the magazines, talked to the owners club and browsed the Internet to get a good idea of what your aimed for car is selling for, then you should have a price in mind that you will pay for the car depending on its condition.

Most classic car insurance policies include an agreed value based on the market value of the car. At the end of the day, it is up to you and your budget. If you feel happy with what you have paid for your car then that is all that matters.

The basic rules for Internet Auctions.

Identify what you want – and have some idea how much you want to pay. Set a budget

only you know what you can afford to spend, or borrow. Use classic car magazine price guides and real adverts to see what your classic will cost to buy. Ideally hold back 10 percent to cover any unexpected problems. Calculate running costs by looking at mpg figures. Get insurance quotes: classic cars can be covered on cost-effective limited-mileage policies and are often surprisingly cheap to insure. Remember also that pre 1972 vehicles also have no road fund licence to pay. Talk to owners about how costly your classic will be to run.

Join the owners club. A huge resource of expertise can be found in owners clubs. Not only will they have some of the best looked-after cars but they have huge amounts of knowledge on the subject of buying and running your chosen classic. They often have cheap insurance and parts schemes, too.

Get an anorak ! No really – buy some books on your chosen classic, read magazines and become a classic-car bore. Research on the Internet and visit Classic Car Shows to talk to owners. You can never know too much.

Select a range of examples available… and do not let the cash burn a hole in your pocket. There are thousands of cars for sale every day so be patient, if it is not there today, it will be soon.

Check the sellers location – are you prepared to travel to inspect and then collect the car if you win the auction. Do you need to consider the cost of having your new pride and joy collected by a car transport service or could you hire a trailer and collect it yourself ?

Check out the seller. Read all the feedback for the last three months, negative feedback should ring alarm bells Ring him/her and get to know about your seller. Why is it being sold etc. Things like “Why are you selling the car?”, “Does it come with any spare parts?”, “How long have you had it?”, “Is there any rot?”, “Does it have any history?” MOT’s, receipts etc. can be helpful for the rebuild. If you know any specifics about the car you are enquiring about then ask any of the questions you feel you need answers for. It could save you a long drive and time away if you have the necessary information before you leave.

If a vehicle has less than 3 months MOT ask the seller if they would be willing to send the car for a fresh MOT – to correct an MOT failure could be expensive.

In the event of a car being sold as an MOT failure, ask the seller to specify the list of failures, then give your local garage a ring and ask them to give you a quote for the work that needs to be carried out. this will give you some idea of the costs involved in getting the vehicle through its MOT It will save you time and money in the long run, no point in bidding on a vehicle that is going to be to costly to put back on the road.

Keep copies of all emails sent and received between you and the seller. they will come in handy if a dispute or conflict arises over the description of the item or any promises the seller makes you.

Check if the seller is a private individual or a dealer – there are many people who buy junk from car auctions and then simply try to pass them off as their own vehicles for a quick profit.

If the seller is a trader passing themselves off as a private seller and they are willing to lie about their status what else are they willing to lie about!!

If the vehicle is being sold by a private seller, ask them how long they owned the vehicle for? is the logbook registered in their name and at their home address? if it is a genuine private sale, then the answers to the above questions should be yes!! if the answer is no to any of the above walk away.

A few examples of the excuses usually given by traders posing as private sellers for not having the vehicle registered in their name “I bought the car for wife/husband or family member and they don’t like it” “insurance to high” (people will usually always get an insurance quote before buying a car)”wife/husband did not like the car” “too big or too fast” or “they failed their driving test” “I bought the car as a stop gap”

ring any bells? I am sure you have heard at least one of the above and I have heard them all.

Remember it is a Legal Requirement to register a vehicle in your name regardless of how long you intend on keeping the car.

A reputable trader should and will disclose the fact that they are a trader, remember if you buy through the trade they may have certain obligations to rectify any problems with the car.

In the event that you have bought the car without prior inspection, before you go to collect the car, print out the item page and take it with you. If the seller has mis- described the item in anyway, you will have proof in your hands to argue your case.

If buying from a private seller, always meet the seller at their home address which should match the address the car is registered at. If there is a problem at least you will have an address to go back to. Do not agree to “meet on the Tesco car park as it will be easier than finding my house “

When you go to collect the vehicle if you are unsure about the vehicle or the seller walk away. Never part with your hard earned money until you are satisfied.

Once you have handed your money over, you will not be able to get it back! If you have not viewed the car do not pay prior to collection, if you do you will have little choice but to take the car away or lose all your money.

What’s the worst that can happen if you walk away? the seller will give you negative feedback. its better to have one negative feedback than a car which is going to cause you lots of problems and cost you time and money. You can always argue your case with the online auction site and you may get the feedback comment removed.

As a winning bidder you have a legal obligation to complete the transaction,however the seller has a greater obligation to be honest about themselves and the item they are selling. If the seller has misdescribed the vehicle and you do not complete the transaction they are very unlikely to take legal action against you for not completing the deal. Remember however if you simply change your mind and walk away without good reason the seller may take steps to recover the money from you.

The basic rules apply even if you are buying from a trader or private seller if something sounds to good to be true then it usually is !!!

I hope that you have found this guide helpful and that using this advice when purchasing a classic car online will help you to avoid the pitfalls and hopefully you will end up with a classic car to use and enjoy over the coming years.

Andrew Lack – A Director of the Lancashire Classic Car Company Brook Classics. I have been buying and selling Classic Cars via Internet Auctions for over ten years so am well qualified to give advice in this field.
http://www.brook-classics.co.uk
http://www.classic-lots.co.uk

The best public speakers in the world all agree on one thing. You can’t get good at public speaking without practice. That’s where some public speaking training seminars fail in teaching people how to do successful presentations. Lecturing someone on how to do a presentation will not make a student learn any faster. If you learn by doing, you’ll achieve much higher results!

After several years of public speaking engagements, teaching seminars and performing piano music for worldwide audiences, I woke up one day and realized I didn’t know the first thing about public speaking. That seems like an odd thing to say but it’s true. How did I know I wasn’t any good at it? Because, I didn’t “feel” successful at it.

Then, as luck would have, I reluctantly and skeptically attended a seminar my wife dragged me too. I thought to myself, I’ve been doing this forever and I don’t need to learn anything. But, I went anyway. And boy, am I ever glad I did. For the first time in my life I witnessed a public speaking genius at work. This man was truly amazing. He had every one of the 2,000 people in that audience on the edge of their seats for three entire days!

That was the turning point for me. At that seminar I realize why I didn’t feel like a successful speaker. I resolved myself to learn everything I could about being successful, not only as a public speaker but as a concert performer. And, overnight I went from being a know-it-all to a learn-it-all. I decided to invest in a seminar that promised to teach how to do successful public speaking presentations. Wow! It was even better than their first seminar. It was five entire days of learning, jamb packed with the most incredible public speaking knowledge imaginable.

What happened next is the truly amazing part! As soon as I got home I started incorporating my new found knowledge into my concert piano performances. The result? My audiences began to grow exponentially and my sales of CDs and DVDs went through the roof. Plus, my fee for performing grew to ten times what I was getting previously.

So, I took the knowledge and experience and began my own seminar business. I first started teaching what I knew and was successful at including how to increase your leads and sales through internet marketing, how to succeed in the niche music business, how to sell off the stage and the inner game of success.

What does this all mean for you? If I could use public speaking training to improve my sales, so can you!

The secret formula that I use for my public speaking presentations works great for keynote speeches, training seminars, sales presentations, live concerts, fundraising speeches, wedding speeches, board room presentations, employee motivation, employee training, pitching, team building, networking and virtually every other public speaking and presenting situation you can think of.

What is this amazing secret formula?

IT’S NOT ABOUT YOU, IT’S ABOUT THE AUDIENCE!

What does that mean exactly? Well, the vast majority of performers and public speakers are far too concerned about how they speak, about how they look, how they perform and how they sell themselves. This is 100% guaranteed to have less impact! In fact, if you’re out there trying to sell yourself, think again, few will buy!

Based on my experience, once I started to make the audience the star I generated more audiences, more results, and more money. This was real world proof that the template works! At first using the template felt strange, because of course, the template felt unfamiliar and was very different than anything I had previously tried. But, after only a few engagements, I was able to merge my personality with the template.

With practice, the template began to feel natural and effortless. Now, I use the template for every type of presentation. In fact, I recently did a boardroom sales presentation for a corporation and walked out with a $20,000 deal. How did I do it? The TEMPLATE!

Here’s where you can start. First be open to learning! Then learn the perfectly powerful speaker’s template. Then learn by doing. It’s that easy! Don’t forget to make the audience the star and you’ll realize just how rewarding and profitable public speaking can be.

Paul Tobey’s motivational public speaking training seminars are perfect for professional speakers, performing artists and anyone looking to raise their public speaking skills to a whole new level.