Tips on Becoming a Better Artist

For many, drawing is an excellent pursuit. There is a simple yet fulfilling joy to be had in making images appear from initial nothingness. Drawing is essentially an assembling game, where the person engaging in it attempts to assemble an image from a seemingly random selection of pigments, brushes, and fiber or virtual bases. Drawing has long been applauded as providing excellent exercise for the development of the body and mind. On one hand, drawing improves and hones one's creativity, which would improve other areas in general involved with problem solving. Hence we find that many geniuses of our age and in the past are proficient in drawing, with many arguing that drawing improves our motor coordination and observation skills. Drawing also acts as a medium of self-expression; virtually everyone can take a little time out of their day to unwind and express themselves onto a blank medium.

However, in order to excel in this area, practice truly makes perfect. No artist managed to create great works and reach fame without a great deal of trial and error in perfecting their trade. Without ample practice, improving our imagery skills would be extremely hard, if not impossible. If you aim on becoming a good artist, always allocate a little time of your day to doodle away. Although most artists fall into a particular niche, it does not mean that one should not branch out and try out different angles, approaches, and techniques to painting. Galileo Galilei, being one of the most notable examples of artistic and intellectual genius of all time, alternated constantly in painting mechanical devices and the human physique.

Particularly today, when we are surrounded by devices making drawing more easy and accessible, one has no excuse in forgoing routine and varying drawing exercises. As a general rule, always allocate a certain hour of the day to improve your skills. When you set aside an hour or two every day to practice, you will be amazed at how much your technique has improved at the end of the month. Having a weekly theme can also spruce up your training regiment, where you can focus on horses on one week, and vehicles in another. Practicing does not have to cost much; with a tablet and a computer, you would not have to worry in wasting pigments or canvases. The internet is also a place of endless information, where you can look-up various drawing tutorials or stock photos such as microscope graphics to study on how to draw metallic. By constantly challenging yourself to step out of your artistic comfort zone and staying true to a diligent regiment of practice, perfecting your drawing skills is a matter of time and effort.

When Storms Come

1. Storms Are Inevitable

Yes, you heard me clear. Storms are going to happen. This is a fundamental fact of life. Our natural man would like to deny this fact, but rest assured storms are coming your way. Not very encouraging words to you? In storms we need more than encouragement. We need more than a song in the midnight hour. We need principles that will empower us with the necessary strength to make it through the storm. Don't find it strange when your boat is being tossed to and fro and the cares of life are crashing all around you. It's a storm.

2. No One Is Immune to Storms

As the wealthy millionaire that stands at the bedside of his young daughter diagnosed with leukemia. Storms are no respectors of person. As the single mother who walks into her son's bedroom, only to find that he has overdosed on drugs. Storms happen to all of us. Regardless of your economical background, your upbringing, your status, your race or nationality, storms happen to all of us. It is easy to feel as if we are the only ones that experience the difficult adversities that life throws our way. It is so easy to be perplexed with your own problems. the brutal reality is this, there are people all around us that we may never see the magnitude of the storms they are personally experience. Some people have storms that are on public display and others have tsunamis of their soul that are shared with noone.

3.Storms Don't Last Forever

Now this is something that brings us hope. It may appear in the darkest moments of life, that the pain will never disipate, but this too shall pass. Dont stand in the storm, but press on. Dont allow the storms to distract you from moving forward. Storms don't last forever. The sky will clear up and there will be a brighter tomorrow. There is a brighter day ahead. Don't give up! Don't throw in the towel. You can make it through this storm!

Mosquito Spraying: Is It Dangerous For You Health?

Mosquito spraying is one of the most commonly used methods to stop the breeding of these nasty insects. Due to the fact that there are chemicals that are spread over areas where people live, mosquito spraying raises a lot of question like : are those pesticides safe for my health? Does it affects my pets ? What about the objects left outside are they affected by mosquito spraying? And so on. In this article we will try to answer to some of these questions.

Mosquito spraying is done using mounted fogging units to apply insecticides as an ultra-low-volume (ULV) spray. These units spray units dispense very fine aerosol droplets (fog) that stay aloft and kill mosquitoes on contact. The amount of insecticide used in mosquito spraying is small compared to the area treated, usually about 3 to 5 ounces per acre, which minimizes exposure and risks to people and the environment. Mosquito spraying is also done by thermal foggers that use an oil carrier that is heated to disperse the pesticide in a dense smoke-like fog.

During mosquito spraying , flying mosquitoes within the treated area are killed. Although the local mosquito population is reduced for a few days, fogging does not prevent mosquitoes from re-entering the area.

The most commonly used products in mosquito spraying are pyrethrins, synthetic pyrethroid insecticides (such as Scourge ® and Anvil ®)and malathion. Pyrethrins are insecticides derived from the extract of chrysanthemum flowers. Pyrethroids are human made forms of pyrethrins. Both of them act as contact poisons, affecting the insect's nervous system. For mosquito spraying they are combined with a synergist (such as piperonyl butoxide) that allows the insecticide to be more effective by restricting the enzyme that insects use to detoxify the pyrethrins.
Pyrethrins and pyrethroids are use in mosquito spraying without posing unreasonable risks to human health when applied according to the label although, in high dosage, pyrethroids can affect the nervous system, coughing, wheezing, shortness of breath, chest pain, runny or stuffy nose. Regarding the wild life and the environment these two insecticides do not pose unreasonable risks, also. When used in mosquito spraying they are low in toxicity to mammals, and are practically nontoxic to birds. However they are toxic to fish and to bees. Therefore E.P.A (Environmental Protection Agency) prohibits the mosquito spraying to open water or within 100 feet of lakes, streams, rivers or bays.

Malathion is an organophosphate insecticide that has been registered for the first time in the United States in1956. It is used to kill insects on agricultural crops, on stored products, on golf courses, in home gardens, and in outdoor sites where trees and shrubs are grown at home and also used in mosquito spraying. Malathion comes in two forms: a pure form of a colorless liquid and a technical-grade solution (brownish-yellow liquid), which contains malathion (greater than 90%) and impurities in a solvent. The technical-grade malathion smells like garlic.

For mosquito spraying, this substance is applied at a maximum
rate of 0.23 pounds (or about 2.5 fluid ounces) of active ingredient per acre, so it doesn't pose unreasonable risk to human health. However, at high doses, malathion, like other organophosphates, can overstimulate the nervous system causing nausea, dizziness, or confusion. Severe high-dose poisoning with any organophosphate can cause convulsions, respiratory paralysis, and death. Malathion degrades rapidly in the environment, especially in moist soil, and it displays low toxicity to birds and mammals, but is highly toxic to beneficial insect (ex honey bees) too. Therefore E.P.A set a few regulations for the use of this product.

So these would be the most important aspects of mosquito spraying that you should be concerned about along with the main chemical components used in this process.

Student Consolidation Loan,New York Mesothelioma Lawyers

What You Should Know About Surround Sound Speaker

Are you a music lover? Do you want a change in the conventional sound? Do you want to experience the sound coming from every corner of your room? Then you should know about surround sound. Surround sound normally gives you such an effect that you will feel that the sound is coming from every corner of the room, though it is played in front of you.

Surround sound is becoming more and more popular every day. This particular kind of sound is being used mainly in the cinema halls. It gives you a more realistic effect of the film. But apart from cinema halls, it is available for your music system too. How? It's simple. You can have this effect with the help of a surround sound speakers.

To know more about surround sound, we first need to understand how a surround sound speaker works. The speakers are located in various positions of the room. They receive multiple audio channels. The whole program is located in one source. When the source starts playing, the sound tracks being decoded simultaneously.

Surround sounds have different formats. They are, Dolby Digital, Dolby Surround, Dolby Pro Logic II X, Dolby Digital EX, DTS, Dolby True HD, True Surround XT, and DTS-ES etc. There are a variety of Surround sound speakers.

Front right and front left speakers

These two speakers are most important in the surround sound system. All the major sounds come from these two speakers. For such importance most of the manufacturing companies keep an eye on these two speakers especially. They always try to make it powerful and high quality. These speakers are very much used in CD players, home theaters etc.

Center channel speaker

It is a small size speaker. It is normally placed below or above the TV set. It delivers the dialogues of the TV or cinema. It makes the dialogs clear. This speaker is shielded magnetically. So they are not able to harm the TV set. Normally the mid range frequencies are being handled by this speaker.

Rear channel speaker

This speaker is placed according to the seating arrangement of the listener. The speaker models also define the placement arrangement of this speaker. For instance, in a 5.1 surround sound set up, there are two such speakers and they are placed right behind the listeners. Four speakers are allotted for the 6.1 version. Here, two speakers are placed behind the head of the listener and two on either side of the listener.

Subwoofer

Subwoofer is a very important part of surround sound speaker. The subwoofer produces extremely low frequencies. It will be a great help for you, when you are watching an action movie or listening to a music that consists a lot of percussion. It also produces deep bass. Subwoofer is omni directional and so it can be kept anywhere in the room. It is very essential for a home theater.

Surround sound speaker have lots of benefits. Listening to music or viewing a cinema becomes very delicious because of this kind of speaker. It makes the movie and music more realistic. In short, this speaker is actually giving a new dimension to the new age sound.

dui attorney,Secured Loan Calculator
students debt consolidation loans 

Train Holidays - Top 10 Worldwide Great Rail Journeys

Actually top 11 - couldn't decide which of these amazing journeys to leave out so have included an extra stunning train holiday. Any one of these amazing trips would be an unforgettable experience.

1. Trans-Siberian Express

The classic journey of 9288 kilometres linking Moscow and Vladivostok, passing through 8 time zones. On board the Golden Eagle, you will be transported back to the age of romance as you wend your way across the Russian steppes to the Sea of Japan, all in unprecedented luxury. Discover one of the most remote parts of the world, passing beautiful scenery as you journey between amazing cities and discover fascinating histories.

2. Orient Express - London to Venice

The fabled Orient Express train brings a travel experience unlike any other. Adventure and romance are all intimately bound up in a choice of trips that traverse Europe and Asia between some of the world's most beguiling cities. The most familiar Orient Express train journey is that of the Venice Simplon Orient Express between London and Venice. Envisage departing Victoria Station in a cloud of steam and arriving at Venice's Santa Lucia after a beautiful and romantic journey through the Alps aboard the Orient Express!

3. Cusco to Machu Picchu on the Hiram Bingham

At one time solely accessible on foot, now there's a genuinely relaxing way to reach Machu Picchu: onboard the Hiram Bingham train. Meander past towering mountains and the tumbling, crashing waters of the Urubamba River - towards the citadel discovered by the adventurer and explorer from whom it takes its name. The lost city of Machu Picchu and the treasures of Peru are revealed in this high-altitude adventure, mixing beautiful rail journeys with 1st class hotels. A truly memorable experience from start to finish it includes visits to Lima, Arequipa, Lake Titicaca and Cusco.

4. Blue Train

The Soul of South Africa - a classic and most opulent rail journey, this railway holiday combines luxurious hotels and lodges, stunning scenery and unbelievable wildlife. Discover some of South Africa's true highlights and journey from Cape Town to Pretoria on the famed Blue Train - one of the world's genuinely iconic rail journeys.

5. Canadian Railroad Adventure

Exhilarating scenery in the Canadian Rockies is the setting for this true outdoor rail adventure. From lively Toronto all the way to Vancouver and the Pacific Ocean, you traverse the plains. passing glaciers and aquamarine lakes as you travel across this huge country. Discover the incredible diversity of Canada's landscape; there is no better means to cross this immense country from east to west than by rail.

6. The Lhasa Express

Travelling 750 miles and reaching an altitude of almost 17,000 feet this spectacular journey takes you to the 'Rooftop of the World' through remote and staggeringly beautiful Tibet. You'll see sights and experience things you can only dream of as you travel from hustle and bustle of Beijing to ancient Lhasa in Tibet. Apart from the stunning scenery, among other highlights you will also be able to visit the Dalai Lama's summer and winter palaces - Norbu Lingka and the Potala Palace.

7. Colonial Mexico & the Copper Canyon

Discover the grandeur of the dramatic Copper Canyon on an exhilarating rail adventure. Vibrant cities, bewitching colonial towns and mystical ancient Aztec ruins make for the perfect Mexican holiday. Explore the Copper Canyon on a 2 day rail adventure on board the Chepe train. Step back in time at the ancient ruins of Teotihuacan and Monte Alban. Experience the sights, sounds and aromas of colourful markets and try delicious Mexican cuisine in Puebla and Oaxaca

8. Pride of Africa

Experience opulence and old world service on a glorious rail journey aboard the Pride of Africa. Discover the absolute splendour of Victoria Falls and the magnificence of Cape Town. Delight in the elegant comfort and roomy cabins aboard the Pride of Africa train. Take in a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Luxuriate in five-star cuisine served in the deluxe surroundings of the dining car

9. India's Golden Triangle

Another iconic rail tour, India's Golden Triangle takes in the Red and Amber Forts, beautiful palaces, temples and ornate gardens, as you visit Delhi, the pink city of Jaipur and Agra with its white marble icon. The area is dubbed 'golden' for the incomparable riches of cultural and historic splendour they offer. Travel in comfort on the Shatabdi Express and the Indore Jodhpur Ranthambore Express. Discover the magnificence of royal buildings and search for some of nature's most majestic creatures on a safari.

10. Coast-to-Coast USA

Experience a once-in-a-lifetime coast to coast rail journey across the most diverse country in the world! This holiday epitomises all that is best in a grand rail tour, where the journey is just as exciting as the destinations to which you head. Travel through unmatchable landscapes on board iconic trains, wonder at the natural wonders of the Grand Canyon and the American Rocky Mountains, in addition to the man-made wonders of New York, Chicago, San Francisco and more.

11. Great Australian Railroad Adventure

Journey from Perth, across the isolated landscape of this immense continent, to Adelaide. Experience the glorious Barrier Reef, stimulating Sydney and the stunning Hunter Valley, on this 21 day epic journey on board the Indian Pacific Train.

Dogs Make the Absolute Best Pets in the Whole Wide World

The best pet a person can own is a dog. The pet business is a billion dollar industry today. A person can purchase most any type pet they desire within reason and of course, within the law.

Puppies purchased from a pet shop, more likely than not, come from puppy mills. Most puppy mills are deplorable places with unclean conditions and owners with little to no regard for the adult dogs or should I say, breeding stock. Pet shops that resell puppies from private individuals or local breeders can be found. You have to be careful and research before you buy a puppy from a pet shop that may be supporting a puppy mill.

Daily classified ads are great places to locate puppies from individuals or local breeders. That way you get to talk to the breeder one on one and ask pertinent questions about the overall health of the breeding pair. On some occasions you might get to see at least one and sometimes both parents of the puppy.

Animal Shelters run by the Humane Society, American Society for the Prevention and Cruelty to Animals or any sanctioned animal rescue organization are the ideal place to get yourself a terrific dog. These dogs have been de-wormed, had their vaccinations updated and had complete checkups for things like heartworms, that can show up months down the road. Their personality is also tested for any aggressive behavior that would make the dog unsafe for human interaction.

Once a person bonds with a dog, the best friend scenario is sealed. Dogs communicate with their owners. I am not say they literally talk, but my dogs let me know if and when they are hungry, thirsty, startled, suspicious, happy, sad, hot, cold, hurting or have to go outside to eliminate. That is not all they tell me, but that is saying a lot.

A dog adds so much to the quality of life for their owners. I have always had and always will have a dog in my life. The love, loyalty and companionship are unsurpassed. For myself and millions like me, a dog makes the absolute best pet.

Visiting Kangaroo Island In South Australia

As one of the world's top destination islands, a trip to the state of South Australia would not be complete without a stop at Kangaroo Island. If you are planning on visiting this unique and fun-filled place, be sure to allow at least three days for sightseeing. Over seven times the size of Singapore, this is not a place that should be crammed into a daytrip!

The city of Kingscote is the busiest area of the island, and acts as its commercial center. With a harbor built around the Nepean Bay, this town is known for its recreational boating and fishing opportunities, as well as the chance to dine on freshly caught seafood. The area is also home to the peculiar "little penguins" who have taken the local sandstone cliffs as their homes. Night tours can be arranged to watch the animals as they return to their dens after searching for food in the ocean. An important heritage site in Kingscote is Reeves Point, the site of the old town of Kingscote.

The village of American River is the home of Kangaroo Island's oyster fishery. Here you'll find excellent boating opportunities, and might even glimpse the endangered glossy black cockatoo. The nearby Pelican Lagoon is a tranquil aquatic reserve filled with native birds, making it an ideal bird watching destination.

The North Coast area is home to the small holiday town of Emu Bay, where you'll find beautiful beaches allowing swimming, boating and picnicking. Only 18 kilometers from Kingscote, Emu Bay can be a quiet home base to explore the many attractions found on the island.

The heart of the island is centered in Parndana, the "place of little gums." Established in 1951 as a result of an agricultural boom in the area, Parndana is considered a very typical small Australian town. Local wildlife is abundant here, so take care when driving. Nighttime koala tours can be arranged through the Community Hotel.

A Short History of Statue of Liberty and Eiffel Tower

The Statue of Liberty and Eiffel Tower are both wonders of the world. They are the iconic beauties of America and France. Both are tall and huge structures and it is interesting to know that the famous "Statue of Liberty" which is a well-loved symbol of hope and peace that was gifted to the American people by France.

The Statue of Liberty is a statue of pale lady holding a torch with her one hand raised and the other hand holding a book close to her chest. The statue is located in New York. The Eiffel Tower stands as one of the artistic beauties of Paris. It was designed by architect named Gustav Eiffel and was originally built in a three year time period from 1887 to 1889 for the Exposition Universelle which is known as the World's Fair. It was specially held in Paris to commemorate the birthday of the French Revolution which brought democracy to France.

France had supported the Americans in their struggle of freedom from the British rule and a formidable friendship developed between both countries during the American Revolution. The French were admired by this historical event of America's success of establishing a democratic government.

The appearance of Statue of Liberty was mainly influenced by the neoclassical artistic style of the 19th century. The idea to create a lady struck the minds of a small group of French intellectuals at a dinner party. Their talks were focused on the close relations between France and America and the voices of the guests expressed admiration and sympathy.

An interesting fact is that Gustav Eiffel who the creator of the famous Eiffel Tower was also the engineer for Statue of Liberty's complex skeleton. He wanted to build Eiffel Tower in the city of Barcelona in Spain for the Universal Exposition in 1888. However Barcelona thought that the tower was too expensive and did not fit the style of the city. The city hall of Barcelona voted against the proposal ultimately sending Gustav Eiffel to submit his plans to the city of Paris.

The height of the Statue of Liberty is 151 feet and 10 inches. The Eiffel Tower has a total height of 1,063 feet which includes the antenna of 79 feet high that was added years later.

Visitors can climb the Statue of Liberty to the balcony around the torch with the help of a steel ladder. Eiffel tower has three levels and it continues to be updated with new shops and restaurants and it has retained its essence from its initial days.

The Statue of Liberty is an attraction for tourists and the Eiffel Tower is known today as a cultural icon and one of France's most beloved landmarks.

Air Pressure Homeschool Science Experiment - How Airplanes Fly

Homeschool science education is fun! It is more fun when you can use things found around the house to demonstrate some naturally occurring phenomena such as air pressure. Flying a toy plane is every child's dream, and if it is combined with education, it can promote better understanding.

Before we go into the fun learning activities that you could co-ordinate with a homeschool science program, let me teach you some principles on which airplanes fly. There are some forces working on an airplane as it flies. They are the forces of thrust and drag and lift and gravity.
 
Thrust moves the airplane forward, and is provided by the jet engine and the propeller. Drag is a force of resistance that works in the opposite direction of thrust and slows down the airplane. Lift works in the upward direction and is produced by the wings. Gravity works in a direction opposite to the lift and pulls the plane down due to its weight. The right balance between these four forces keeps the plane flying.
 
Airplanes are shaped in such a way so as to minimize drag caused by air pressure, in order to allow them to glide smoothly. When air hits a moving object having a smaller area, it does not cause much resistance since there is less air pressure working on that object. On the other hand, when air hits a moving object with a larger area, it causes resistance as there is a higher pressure working on that object.
 
This is why airplanes are aerodynamically designed with cone-shaped noses so that the air pressure on the airplane body is reduced. This reduces drag and allows them to glide effortlessly through the air.
 
As an airplane moves with great speed on the runway, the wings are tilted upwards, increasing the air pressure on them. Therefore the airplane is lifted off the runway and rises higher. The angle of the wings determines how high the airplane will lift. In the same way, air pressure is used to maneuver the plane using the tail rudder.
 
You can blend the following fun activity with your homeschool science program. Buy a balsa wood toy airplane at your local store or drug store. As we assemble the airplane, we will experiment how it flies as we add each part.
 
To begin with, fly only the airplane body without the fins or wings. You will find that it is no better than a shoe flung in the air. The thrust is of no use, as it cannot make the right use of air pressure to fly.
 
Now attach only the large wing and fly the airplane. Your plane will seem to lift but then somersaults or plummets to the ground.

Next attach the horizontal stabilizer tail and fly it with a curve. You will notice that the somersaults have stopped but there is a zigzag movement.
 
Attach the vertical tail or rudder and now check out your toy airplane. This time you will notice a successful flying spell without any fishtail movements.
 
Here's something for you to figure out on your own. Fly the airplane without the metal nose clip and see what happens. What is the purpose of this metal clip?

Musicians - Tools You Can Use To Enhance Your Career

There are different ways of describing musicians. One of way that we describe musicians is that they are professionals who have mastered the art of playing musical instruments. Some common examples of musical instruments include pianos, guitars, violins, drums and even the saxophones. Another way that we can describe musicians is that they are professionals who entertain others by singing or performing music creatively using their voice. Of the two definitions, this is the most common. Musicians have been blessed with the talent of composing and performing music in front of an audience. Most of the time musicians have been known to use musical instruments to accentuate their voices although there are other musicians who prefer to perform without using accompaniments.

That said; there are two types of musicians; namely amateur musicians and professional musicians. Let's look at each of these musicians briefly. Amateur musicians are people who are talented with the ability to compose and perform music but they do not consider music as an occupation. In other words, amateur musicians compose and perform music purely for fun and do not charge for their performances. In most cases, these people work in a group and they spend their free time performing for charity.

Professional musicians, on the other hand, consider music as a career. They compose and perform music for a fee. Some of these musicians have been known to work part time although the majority of professional musicians have embraced their musical careers fully and depend on them for their day to day upkeep.

There a lot of challenges that professional musicians face. One of the most common challenges that they have to overcome is dealing with rogue managers. Musicians can spend countless hours working on a record in a studio and when they finally come up with a song they are required to promote it by performing in front of a live audience in several locations. With that said; most of these professionals hire managers to manage their appearances and even interact with clients and other organizations that want a given musician to grace their venues and ceremonies.

It goes without saying that some of these managers take advantage of their positions and exploit the musicians. Numerous complaints have been filed by musicians about their managers who ripped them off or ran away with their earnings after they performed for a client. On that note; this article will talk about the tools that professional musicians can use to enhance their career and ensure that they do not get ripped off by rogue managers.

There are numerous tools that these professionals can use to help them. Of all the tools, online booking systems are among the best and the most effective. Let us look at few ways that online appointment scheduling systems can be beneficial to professional musicians.

One way that online booking systems can help these professionals is by eliminating the need to hire stage managers. Instead of employing a stage manager who might swindle you out of your hard earned money, as a musician, you can opt to use online booking systems. You can integrate these systems with your official website for them to be effective. Once that is done, potential clients can use the scheduling software that comes with the system to contact you through your website and send you an appearance request together with the amount that they are willing to compensate you among many other details. You will then receive this information by email. By using these systems you will ensure that are the only person who interacts with your clients and as such your hard work will not go down the drain because there will be no third party involvements.

The second way that online booking systems can help musicians enhance their career is by preventing them from wasting their time. Instead of spending their time chasing rogue managers for their compensation they can spend their time more productively in the studio coming up with more sound tracks for their albums.

Why Learn Music?

When you've decided to go ahead with music lessons, it can be a big event in your child's life. So, what's in it for them?

Brain development

Music training has many advantages for the student, including better development of the areas of the brain devoted to language and reasoning. Learning music can help to rewire some areas of the left brain to help language processing. Another benefit is in spatial development. This helps the development of mathematical intelligence, pattern recognition and problem solving. In general, learning music through childhood is associated with higher marks and better performance in high school and beyond.

The wider experience

Music comes to us from many countries, and children are exposed to music from other cultures. This helps to encourage tolerance and empathy towards difference without it being threatening.

Teamwork and discipline

Fostering excellence is the work of a good teacher. If a note is out of tune, a student has to learn to get it into tune. It has to be in time, and if playing with others, one has to come in at the right time too. All of these things must be learned, which is excellent discipline and helps the child look for and attain excellence, which translates into other areas of life.

Performance

Performing with others is part of music education. Whether it's a symphony orchestra, big band, recorder group, choir or small ensemble, this is teamwork and discipline, as well as being highly enjoyable to most participants. Rewards come from hard work, and self-esteem is enhanced.

Dealing with stress

The experience of dealing with music exams, preparation and performance will expose the child to some degree of nervousness, as well as achievement. The ability to cope with these events helps them to cope with other stresses in later life, and know that they can come through them safely.

Being more creative

Music is self-expression and creativity. Through learning an instrument, the child may well foster a talent in composing or other aspects of creative work. Working with others can be rewarding and spiritual, leading to a more well-rounded person.

Conclusion

All of these benefits come from long-term musical training, preferably with a good, professional teacher, an investment in a quality instrument, and lots of positive encouragement from parents and family. Forcing a child to learn when they aren't interested is a waste of time and money. But if they are interested, even if they don't have a lot of talent, they can still enjoy themselves and reap rewards.

Interesting Facts About Australia

Australia is a continent that many people are fascinated with, and for good reason. It is full of sites and places that thousands of tourists flock to each year.

But there is more to Australia than just a lot of things to see. There are many interesting historical and present day facts about Australia, including:

Australia was home to thousands of prisoners.

When the British began to settle Australia in the late 1700s, their main motivation for doing so was to establish a land to send their prisoners to. The common practice of that time was to send convicts and prisoners (typically those who owed money or defied the government in some way) to the American colonies to work for a period of seven to fourteen years. However, when the British lost control of the American colonies, they had no place to send their prisoners until James Cook, the first Englishman to chart and explore Australia, suggested it as a suitable place. As a result, thousands of British prisoners were sent to Australia, where they eventually were set free and allowed the colonies to prosper. Now, about twenty five percent of Australians have ancestors who were convicts.

There were originally over 200 languages in Australia.

Australia was first inhabited over 40,000 years ago by Aboriginal people. These tribes of Aborigines in the states and across the country spoke over 200 languages and dialects. However, more than half of these dialects are now extinct, as over ninety percent of the original Aborigines were killed when the British settled the continent, mostly as a result of diseases the Europeans brought over.

Australia is the smallest continent in the world.

Australia can claim itself as a country, continent, and island. While it is the smallest continent in the world, it is also the largest island in the world. In addition, Australia is the only country in the world that makes up an entire continent. The majority of the people in Australia live in the large coastal cities because over ninety percent of Australia is actually dry and flat, and about three quarters of the land can't support any type of agriculture.

Australia is famous for its sheep.

The population of Australia is more sheep than people; in fact, there are roughly ten sheep in Australia for every person. As a result, Australia is the largest exporter in the world of lamb meat and wool.

Australia's most famous animals are unique to Australia only.

When many people think of wildlife in Australia, they think of such animals as koala bears and kangaroos. Because Australia is an island and not connected to any other land, it has developed its own wildlife. The kangaroo, koala bear, emu, and kookaburra are animals that are only found in the wild in Australia.

Australia is a smart country.

Presently, Australia claims to have a 100% literacy rate, one of the highest in the world. Perhaps this is why they read more newspapers per capita than any country in the world.

Australians love to gamble.

Per capita, Australians spend more money on gambling than any other country in the world. And although they make up less than one percent of the total population of the world, Australia has over twenty percent of the world's poker machines.

As you can see from these few facts, Australia is a country that is full of interesting facts, both from the past as well as the present. For more Australia visit Australia at "Surfing the Net with Kids."

How Airplanes Work

Human flight has become a tired fact of modern life. At any given moment, roughly 5,000 airplanes crisscross the skies above the United States alone, amounting to an estimated 64 million commercial and private takeoffs every year.Consider the rest of the world's flight activity, and the grand total is incalculable.

It is easy to take the physics of flight for granted, as well as the ways in which we exploit them to achieve flight. We often glimpse a plane in the sky with no greater understanding of the principles involved than a caveman.

How do these heavy machines take to the air? To answer that question, we have to enter the world of fluid mechanics.

Physicists classify both liquids and gases as fluids, based on how they flow. Even though air, water and pancake syrup may seem like very different substances, they all conform to the same set of mathematical relationships. In fact, basic aerodynamic tests are sometimes performed underwater. To put it simply, a salmon essentially flies through the sea, and a pelican swims through the air.

The core of the matter is this: Even a clear sky isn't empty. Our atmosphere is a massive fluid layer, and the right application of physics makes it possible for humans to traverse it.

how much fuel will aeroplane use per second...???

A plane like a Boeing 747 uses approximately 1 gallon of fuel (about 4 liters) every second. Over the course of a 10-hour flight, it might burn 36,000 gallons (150,000 liters). According to Boeing's Web site, the 747 burns approximately 5 gallons of fuel per mile (12 liters per kilometer).

This sounds like a tremendously poor miles-per-gallon rating! But consider that a 747 can carry as many as 568 people. Let's call it 500 people to take into account the fact that not all seats on most flights are occupied. A 747 is transporting 500 people 1 mile using 5 gallons of fuel. That means the plane is burning 0.01 gallons per person per mile. In other words, the plane is getting 100 miles per gallon per person! The typical car gets about 25 miles per gallon, so the 747 is much better than a car carrying one person, and compares favorably even if there are four people in the car. Not bad when you consider that the 747 is flying at 550 miles per hour (900 km/h)!

Flying Aircraft on Ethanol

refillig fuel(aviation fuel)

Ethanol has been available for nearly a century. But we are now finding ways to use it for more things and to help us on our reliance on foreign oil. Baylor University has done numerous tests on ethanol in acrobatic general aviation aircraft as well as passenger high and low performance aircraft.

The Bellanca Decathlon a symmetrical winged Citabria for aerobatics was tested with 100% hydrous ethanol, which was gotten from an M & M Mars Candy Manufacturing plant. Ethanol was thought to be dangerous when it was 10-15% mixed with water due to the condensation aspects of water in aircraft engines another good reason for preflight inspections.

It was found that with a 100% hydrous ethanol there was no decrease in performance and to the contrary a slight increase in less knocking under demand for power. When put into a Pitts Special S1S where the compression ratios were 10:1 the ethanol had a higher performance when temperatures were over 100 degrees. The 50/50 blended fuel had a decrease slightly of up to 15-20%. But did comparable under hotter temperatures of air intake or ambient air. Eleven aircraft were tested at Baylor University the larger the engines the better the ethanol did.

Ethanol also increased the TBO, total time to recommended or predicted overhaul by 50% meaning less wear on the engine, probably due to less knock. The FAA certified the IO-540 a very popular general aviation engine in March of 1990. So much of this is nothing new. The FAA even stating that it exceeded the tests. Aviation fuel is the last fuel available with lead in it. This has taken some 22 years to develop and now it appears aircraft with piston engines can use ethanol and perform better in many instances. This is especially good for those states, which grow corn such as Nebraska, ND, SD, Iowa and others.

The push for this type of fuel is coming predominantly from the areas in the US where corn grows which elevates the price of corn for farmers. Corn, a commodity can also be used to eat obviously and of course like oil can be used to make plastics and other important materials for a myriad of uses. Next time you think of corn, think of more than just food. The Navajo Indians made it into food by pounding the crap out of it, they were on to something there. Corn is a big deal to many states where it can be grown in abundance.

It appears that if ethanol provides better performance in hotter climates then perhaps we may wish to sell ethanol for aircraft in those markets unless the pilots will fly much above 12,000 feet where the air is cooler. The average of 2 degrees per thousand feet decrease in ambient temperature, flying over mountains could be an issue. But these are most interesting facts for military vehicles in the middle east, cars in hot climates and of course for aviation also.

If you have any ideas on alternative fuel for aircraft please let's explore and discuss these issues.

9 Simple Tips on How to Prevent Pimples

Pimples are quite a common problem especially with teenagers and most of us experience it at. Pimples make us conscious reducing the confidence level. Actual cause of having pimples is still not very clear but we believe that hormonal change happening in our body during adolescence and stress may lead to it. If you are looking for tips on how to prevent pimples, you may find following tips quite helpful:

• Honey has lots of curing as well as cleansing properties. Open pores in face by applying warm water or mild steam and then apply honey. Wait for few minutes before washing it first using warm water. Cold water can then be splashed on face to close open pores.
• Wash your face at least twice a day (first time in morning and second before moving to bed). Wash more often in summers to prevent oils from getting accumulated and keep face clean. Remember to splash warm water before applying soap as that opens the pores in skin allowing deep penetration of skin by soap. People with oily skin must use water-based soap. Don't use body soaps on face as that may clog pores causing acne pimples. Soap must be rinsed off using cold water so that pores are closed.
• Tone - People generally do not give toning any importance and it is often left out. Do tone your skin after cleansing as it clears face of any leftover cleanser. If residue is left on face, that clogs the pores resulting in acne. Toner can be easily applied by soaking a cotton ball in it and running over face.
• Put little moisturizer on hands and apply on face till it gets absorbed. People with oily skin must use an oil-free and light moisturizer. People with dry skin must use extra moisturizing creams.
• Add fresh fruits, vegetables in diet and take vitamin, chromium, zinc supplements.
• Teenagers must not wear heavy makeup on faces. If you have to, use water based products avoiding oil-based products.
• Drink at least 10 glasses of water in a day. Water is a best cleanser as it helps flushing out toxins of the body.
• Do not use oily products like pomades or hair spray on your hair.
• Do not pluck out pimple with bare hand as that may leave permanent spot on skin

Excessive Underarm Sweating - 10 Effective Tips to Get Rid of Too Much Sweat

If you happen to be one of those 3 million people documented to be affected with the condition of hyperhydrosis or excessive sweating, then you must definitely be asking yourself about the possible and available ways of stopping excessive underarm sweating. Do not worry; there are countless available techniques and ways of treating this embarrassing condition of perspiring too much. All you need to do is research for the available resources online such as reviews, feedback, ratings and testimonials of such users who have once had excessive sweating and has used some strategies to successfully eliminate it. Here are just a few of the things you need to start doing to get out of such an embarrassing condition.

1. You may also consider using the natural ways of eliminating excessive sweating in your body such as boiling some sage tea leaves and use the water to wash up, or use other natural products like catnip, turnip juice, lemon balm, and chamomile among others.

2. Study which antiperspirant is known to be very effective in eliminating the condition of hyperhidrosis or excessive underarm sweating. If ever your chosen antiperspirant does not seem to work, try a similar product and if it still does not work, you may try shifting to use of oral medications instead.

3. Also, stop taking on any products that contain caffeine as you will only aggravate your condition of excessive sweating in the armpits. In the same manner that you must do away with certain vices like smoking or drinking alcoholic beverages as they are proven to greatly stimulate excessive sweating.

4. Likewise, make sure you do away with eating canned or processed foods. Instead add more vegetables and fresh fruits to your regular diet. That way, you are able to keep a healthy diet to help you stop perspiring too much.

5. Start taking yoga classes to reduce your levels of anxiety, if not to totally eliminate them. It has been proven that negative emotions such as anxiety and stress can actually trigger a person to excessively sweat.

6. What is more, you have to increase your fluids intake. Make it a point that you are able to drink lots of water, at least about 8 glasses each day to help reduce the hyperactivity of your sweat glands.

7. Keep good hygiene habits. These will have to include taking regular cold showers to refresh you. You may also try washing your armpits with baking soda mixed with some essential oils to deodorize naturally and absorb the excess moisture in your underarms.

8. Make sure you change your clothes often, as in literally every now and then. Doing so, you are able to prevent bacteria from multiplying in your clothes that could eventually trigger a stench in your armpits, or body in general.

9. Also, ensure regular shaving of the armpits, especially when exposed to extreme weather conditions such as high levels of humidity and dryness. That will assure you that you will be able to prevent your underarm from excessively sweating.

10. Lastly, consult your doctor to diagnose your condition. There may be underlying factors that could be causing your excessive underarm sweating.

How to Stop Sweating So Much - Easy Ways to Stop Yourself From Sweating Excessively

too much sweat

Are you the type who would perspire with just little movement? Do you see outlines of sweat in your shirt just hours before you've left home for office? Isn't it just downright annoying especially if you have to meet up with clients and present your report?

It is. When God invented sweating, he didn't mean for people to get awkward in social situations. He must have thought it was completely for the body to release toxins. But somehow somewhere along the way this function got distorted and now you see people sweating abnormally even when they don't intend to. Somehow, this sweating business has got to stop.

So how to stop sweating so much? Well, it doesn't take rocket science to figure out the answers. Over the years, people have come up with various ways on how to treat this condition. It's more than just one solution, actually. It takes complete discipline to carry out routines that would all work together to suppress your body's natural sweat machine.

Make sure your condition is not a symptom of a more serious disease. Go check with your doctor to run some tests to ascertain the causes. Obesity and thyroid infection can cause excessive sweating. If you're a little heavy on the scale, exert some effort to slash down a significant portion of your weight. Obese people suffer from heavy sweating because their chemical processes work double than what it should be.

Antiperspirants can do a great job on how to stop sweating so much. The next time you shop around, don't forget to stash a small bottle of antiperspirant in your pushcart. Select a product containing aluminum chloride. It always is the best kind.

Drink at least a cup of tea that prevents sweating. There are several teas of that kind floating around, and you only have to ask to know which brand is most effective. Green tea is best known for its anti-sweating properties, as well as its effectiveness when it comes to reducing unlikely odors caused by your sweat.

Put a swab of alcohol on your underarms. It is a great sweat suppressant because it somehow closes up your pores so that it can't release too much sweat at once. To avoid smelling like an alcohol junkie, put on some nice-smelling deodorant on top of the alcohol.

Always be in control of your emotions. It is often easy to get carried away when you're a little upset, or you're too nervous about something. You must learn how to relax and put your feelings in place. Practice deep breathing and channel your thoughts to pleasant things. Instead of getting too irritated over how hot and humid the weather is, try imagining you're in some cooler place like Alaska and you will soon discover your body feeling a lot less uncomfortable.

6 Tips To Help You Stop Sweating Too Much

too much sweat

Loads of people dread the hotter weather simply because it turns us into large sweat-making machines. However on those sweltering days you'll be glad that you do have those sweat glands as they help cool down our bodies.

The problem is that for some the benefits of sweating are lost when the sweat takes on a foul odor. Also some people produce so much sweat it can make them look as if they've just been to a wet t-shirt contest. So what should you do in these circumstances?

When is Sweating Bad?

We need to sweat in order to cool down, think of it as our own built-in cooling system. As our temperature rises, pores open and our sweat glands kick into action. This is a good thing and is what our bodies are supposed to do. This way we can stay at the optimal body temperature.

So, when is sweating a bad thing? If it's below freezing and you feel like you're trekking across the Sahara Desert or you feel like you're drowning in your own sweat. Another thing to look out for is crystals forming in your sweat.

Also be on the watch from odor. Sweat shouldn't smell bad, it should only be quite faint and pleasant. If you smell so bad that even a vampire would run, then check with your doctor. These problems are signals that your body isn't functioning correctly so you'll want to find out what's causing it.

Although we tend to think of profuse sweating as "just one of those things", it can actually be a signal of an over active thyroid, heart disease or even TB. You will obviously want these conditions looked at.

Ways to Control Over-active Sweat Glands

If you sweat a lot but don't have any of the above symptoms, or if you've been to the doctor and have been told you're perfectly healthy, here are a few tips you can try.

1. Have a bath or shower every day and keep away from strongly scented soaps and cleansers.

2. Once you have cleaned yourself make sure you dry off thoroughly. Bad odor is caused bacteria and bacteria love moist and warm conditions.

3. Wear natural materials such as cotton rather then synthetic. Cotton helps pull moisture from your skin.

4. Use cotton sheets on your bed if you overheat at night. Also, try turning down your furnace when you go to sleep.

5. Put on an antiperspirant daily. Ideally one with tea tree or witch hazel as these are both naturally antiseptic.

#6 RELAX! Stress can trigger the sweat glands to start working in over time.

Always remember that sweating is totally normal and is required to keep at the correct temperature. It is also one way to get rid of toxins from the body. With over 3 million sweat glands, it is impossible to stop it from happening but by doing a few things like the ones listed above, it will no longer be an unbearable situation.

Visiting New York? Don't Miss the Statue of Liberty and Ellis Island

The Statue of Liberty is one of the New York City Attractions you should definitely visit if you are planning a trip to the Big Apple.

This infamous monument - which is actually entitled: Liberty Enchanting the World - was a gift to the people of the United States from France in 1886. The copper-clad maiden was dedicated on October 28, 1886 to commemorate the centenary of the Declaration of Independence.

Standing 305ft above Liberty Island the Statue of Liberty welcomes visitors, immigrants and returning Americans.

The statue depicts a robed woman holding aloft a flaming torch; her robes are made from pure copper and her torch flame gold leaf.

From its dedication in 1886 until 1902 the Statue of Liberty acted as a lighthouse over the New York Harbor - today it no longer serves such a purpose, but as one of New York's most recognisable landmarks it attracts numerous tourists.

Ellis Island Immigration Museum

Following the restoration in the 1980's the Main Building opened as the Ellis Island Immigration Museum - in memory of America's immigrant heritage. Museum exhibits tell the story of Ellis Island's role in immigration history as well as giving a voice to the immigrants themselves. Each unique story conveys the courage and determination behind a decision to leave home and seek opportunities in a foreign land.

The exhibits include photographs, prints, videos and interactive displays as well as museum objects. The largest exhibit is the building itself, a French Renaissance Revival structure which was designed by Boring and Tilton and restored to its 1918-1924 appearance.

The Statue of Liberty

Further exhibits can be found inside the base of the Statue herself. The Statue of Liberty exhibit traces the history and the symbolism of the statue through photographs and artifacts. The Torch exhibit includes the original 1886 flame and on the inner wall of the pedestal, visitors can see Emma Lazarus' famous sonnet - the New Colossus.

Getting there

The Statue of Liberty and the Ellis Island Immigration Museum are just a short ferry ride away from Battery Park.

Ferry boats depart daily from 9am through 3.30pm.

why and where cyclone will occurs..?

What is a Cyclone?

Cyclones are huge revolving storms caused by winds blowing around a central area of low atmospheric pressure. In the northern hemisphere, cyclones are called hurricanes or typhoons and their winds blow in an anti-clockwise circle. In the southern hemisphere, these tropical storms are known as cyclones, whose winds blow in a clockwise circle.

How do Cyclones occur?

Cyclones develop over warm seas near the Equator. Air heated by the sun rises very swiftly, which creates areas of very low pressure. As the warm air rises, it becomes loaded with moisture which condenses into massive thunderclouds. Cool air rushes in to fill the void that is left, but because of the constant turning of the Earth on its axis, the air is bent inwards and then spirals upwards with great force. The swirling winds rotate faster and faster, forming a huge circle which can be up to 2,000 km across. At the centre of the storm is a calm, cloudless area called the eye, where there is no rain, and the winds are fairly light.

As the cyclone builds up it begins to move. It is sustained by a steady flow of warm, moist air. The strongest winds and heaviest rains are found in the towering clouds which merge into a wall about 20-30 km from the storm's centre. Winds around the eye can reach speeds of up to 200 km/h, and a fully developed cyclone pumps out about two million tonnes of air per second. This results in more rain being released in a day than falls in a year in a city like London.

When and where do Cyclones occur?

Cyclones begin in tropical regions, such as northern Australia, South-East Asia and many Pacific islands. They sometimes drift into the temperate coastal areas, threatening more heavily populated regions to the South. Northern Australia has about four or five tropical cyclones every year during the summertime wet season. For a cyclone to develop, the sea surface must have a temperature of at least 26ºC.

Why do Cyclones occur?

When warm air rises from the seas and condenses into clouds, massive amounts of heat are released. The result of this mixture of heat and moisture is often a collection of thunderstorms, from which a tropical storm can develop.

The trigger for most Atlantic hurricanes is an easterly wave, a band of low pressure moving westwards, which may have begun as an African thunderstorm. Vigorous thunderstorms and high winds combine to create a cluster of thunderstorms which can become the seedling for a tropical storm.

Typhoons in the Far East and Cyclones in the Indian Ocean often develop from a thunderstorm in the equatorial trough. During the hurricane season, the Coriolis effect of the Earth's rotation starts the winds in the thunderstorm spinning in a circular motion.

Cyclone Danger

Cyclones create several dangers for people living around tropical areas. The most destructive force of a cyclone comes from the fierce winds. These winds are strong enough to easily topple fences, sheds, trees, power poles and caravans, while hurling helpless people through the air. Many people are killed when the cyclone's winds cause buildings to collapse and houses to completely blow away.

A cyclone typically churns up the sea, causing giant waves and surges of water known as storm surges. The water of a storm surge rushes inland with deadly power, flooding low-lying coastal areas. The rains from cyclones are also heavy enough to cause serious flooding, especially along river areas.


Storm surge damage

Long after a cyclone has passed, road and rail transport can still be blocked by floodwaters. Safe lighting of homes and proper refrigeration of food may be impossible because of failing power supplies. Water often becomes contaminated from dead animals or rotting food, and people are threatened with diseases like gastroenteritis.

Why Mosquito Control is Important

I've had mosquitoes ruin a few camping trips and make a beautiful summer evening outdoors a hassle. But aside from being an annoyance, I know they are also a danger because they can carry diseases.

While malaria and yellow fever have been virtually eliminated in the U.S., thanks to widespread public health efforts, viral encephalitides is still a threat. Encephalitis, which means inflammation of the brain, is caused by a number of bacterial and viral infections and can be transmitted by mosquitoes. Those mosquito-borne strains include Eastern Equine, LaCrosse, St. Louis, and West Nile. The latter has received the most attention lately. In addition to the threat disease-carrying mosquitoes pose to humans, they can also cause canine heartworm.

Keeping you and your family safe from the dangers mosquitoes bring is essential. There are several types of mosquito control you can use to protect your family from the dangers of mosquitoes. Some are more effective than others.

Repellents: Common Mosquito Control

Repellents, including aerosols, creams, sticks, sprays and liquids, can be applied to the skin and clothing.

The most effective repellents that can be applied to bare skin contain DEET. While these repellents do not kill mosquitoes, they can deter them from biting. Depending on the amount of DEET in the product, they can be an effective form of mosquito control from 90 minutes to 10 hours.

Products containing Permanone can be used on clothes, shoes, bed nets and camping gear, but should never be used on skin. While DEET products deter mosquitoes from biting, Permanone kills mosquitoes and ticks. This type of repellent can generally last up to 6 hours. Even after materials treated with Permanone have been washed, the chemical can remain.

Many prefer not to use DEET and Permanone because they are chemicals. There are mosquito repellents available that do not contain these harsh chemicals, and typically they contain oil of citronella. While they provide some relief, they are not as effective as DEET or Permanone. Others claim dryer sheets can be used as a form of mosquito control when tied to clothing.

Directions should always be followed when using repellents. They should never be used on your kids' hands. And as soon as you're indoors again, treated skin should always be washed with soap and water.

Controlling Mosquitoes by Eliminating Breeding Sites

Eliminating breeding sites is one of the best forms of mosquito control, but can be costly and difficult for the average homeowner to do. Mosquitoes travel up to several miles, which means breeding areas may be several miles away from where the problem is being experienced.

Taking steps as a community is the most effective way to control mosquitoes. Ensure standing water, from neglected birdbaths and swimming pools to clogged rain gutters, are eliminated.

Larger areas of standing water, such as swamps, ditches, and slow-moving streams, require community resources to eliminate.

Mosquito Control Traps

There are products available that claim to attract, repel or kill mosquitoes.

Electrocuting devices, which are commonly referred to as "bug zappers," use ultraviolet light as an attractant. These have proven to be highly ineffective at mosquito control. Only a tiny percentage of bugs captured by these traps are in fact mosquitoes. Moths, beetles, and other non-biting and harmless insects are the majority of insects captured by these bug zappers.

Other devices emanate ultrasonic high-frequency sound waves. They claim to repel pests, including mosquitoes. These have been proven to be ineffective forms of insect and mosquito control. Consumer protection agencies have cracked down on these companies that advertise unsubstantiated claims about their devices. However, new companies are always emerging hoping to sell these ineffective mosquito control devices.

There are mosquito traps available that have proven to be highly effective at disrupting the mosquito breeding cycle, thereby virtually eliminating the danger and annoyance of mosquitoes in your yard for an entire season, without exposing your family to harsh chemicals.

The most effective mosquito traps release a continuous stream of carbon dioxide, combined with an attractant, to lure mosquitoes. Once near the trap, the mosquitoes are vacuumed into a net where they dehydrate and die. These traps run continuously for the best results. Some of the more advanced models automatically power down and restart the trap based on 50 degrees, the temperature at which mosquito breeding usually starts.

While these mosquito traps cost more than repellents, their success in protecting your family for an entire season from the dangers mosquitoes bring prove to be a positive return on investment.
seo,justin,how to

Home Remedies for Mosquito Bites

There are few things in the world that are more annoying than a persistently buzzing mosquito, always just out of reach until it swoops in and bites you when you're not looking. When a mosquito bites, it injects saliva containing an anticoagulant that prevents your blood from clotting. The itchy red swelling that results is caused by an allergic reaction to the mosquito's saliva. While for many of us this is just an annoyance, mosquitoes in some parts of the world carry malaria, West Nile virus, dengue fever, yellow fever, encephalitis, and other serious diseases. Even in safer parts of the world, many people have stronger allergic reactions, producing itchy welts. Often, mosquitoes hone in on certain individuals, leaving others entirely alone.

In any event, there are many ways to avoid bites in the first place. Mosquitoes routinely swarm at dusk; sometimes, they appear in the thousands just as the sun is going down, then disappear after 30 minutes. Especially if you are allergic or seem to attract mosquitoes, stay in a screened porch. Or, apply an insect repellent; most repellents can be used quite safely. DEET, for instance, is the active ingredient in many repellents; it keeps away an array of biting insects including mosquitoes, gnats, midges, and sand flies. Another common repellent is citronella oil, obtained by the steam distillation of freshly cut grasses. You can rub this onto your exposed skin as a lotion, or apply as a spray.

There are various devices that keep mosquitoes at bay. Insect repellent wristbands can be worn around the wrists or ankles; these release a fine repellent vapor such as DEET, forming a protective barrier around your body. Because no liquid chemicals are directly absorbed by your skin, there is little danger of skin irritation or damage to clothing. Likewise, plug-in mosquito killers gradually release insecticide vapors into the air, keeping bugs away. Because plug-ins work so gradually, they are appropriate for use indoors and can be left on overnight in your bedroom. Mosquito coils, on the other hand, are more obtrusive; these coils are set up on small metal stands or glass bottles and, when lit, release smoke that repels mosquitoes. Each coil burns for about 8 hours; coils are appropriate for use outdoors. If you want to light one inside, be sure the room has adequate ventilation.

If you've already been bitten and have an itchy welt, there are various household products that can help relieve your discomfort. Many people use salt: moisten the area around the bite and rub in some table salt. The itchiness should disappear immediately. You can also rub apple cider vinegar into a bite. Strangely, toothpaste is another common product that quickly alleviates your itching; for some reason, peppermint-flavored toothpaste works the best.

You can make a paste with baking soda and apply that to your bite, leaving it on for about 15 minutes. Mix baking soda with water until you have a paste-like substance, and apply directly to your bite. Or, mix baking soda with witch-hazel. Two other products that you can purchase that will relieve your itching are calamine lotion (commonly used for poison ivy) and aloe gel.

Some people find that a mixture of 1 part water, 1 part garlic salt, and 1 part seasoning salt is effective in controlling itchiness. This potent mixture will burn for about 5 seconds, and then your bite will feel much better. Other people find that simply rubbing their own saliva into the bite will relieve the discomfort.

If you have a persistent itch that won't stop and you can't prevent yourself from constantly scratching, you are at risk of infection. If the itching is really unbearable, cut a lemon in half and "scratch" the bite with the soft, pulpy side of the lemon; this is better than using your fingernails, which will tear at the bite and eventually cause infection.

There is little we can do to avoid coming into contact with mosquitoes, but there are many products to help prevent bites, and dozens of remedies that will bring relief if we've already been bitten.