By Luzerna Solon

How often do you find yourself stuck in the house on them cold winter days, suffering from the winter blues? I bet you said quite often, if you did then your answer is like that of most people during the winter months. I want you to stop right now and think about what you just read, if you do find yourself stuck in the house during the winter with nothing to do, you should consider yourself very lucky. Most people are always complaining that they don’t have enough time in the day to get things done. So, according to a lot of folks, if you have nothing to do in the winter because your stuck inside, you are indeed a very lucky person.

Now, if this is true and you find yourself in the winter with nothing to do, and you need an idea to fight the winter blues, why not take up a great hobby like building dollhouses for your children, or as gifts to other children or to make some great extra money. Building a dollhouse is a great winter time project for any adult, from a male to a female. Now, if you are a carpenter by trade, such a project will be pretty easy for you, but if not, you can still make a dollhouse pretty easy. First of all you must decide if you want to build one from a kit or completely from scratch, by making your own parts.

Dollhouse kits can range in price from $40 to a few thousand dollars, depending upon the size, parts and the uniqueness of the project. A dollhouse is basically a copy of a real house that is made in miniature. If you are planning on making a dollhouse from a kit, then simply purchase one and follow the instructions that are included with it. If you are interested in making a dollhouse from scratch, using material you purchase, here are some things you should know before beginning your project.

Most folks use plain plywood to make their dollhouses out of, it’s pretty cheap and a single full sized sheet in 1/4 inch thickness, is enough to make a whole project. You do not need to get the best or most expensive plywood either, the standard or good grade is fine. You can always sand and fill in any holes or damage in the wood, before painting and assembling it. Windows are usually created with clear sheets of plastic or Plexiglas. And the roof shingles can be made from actually parts from spare shingles, cut into small versions, or some people say using sandpaper makes great shingles.

You can use the internet to get some great, free dollhouse plans to follow or buy yourself a couple books on building dollhouses. You will need a saw capable of cutting out small pieces of wood, a sander or sandpaper, some small nails and a good wood glue. You can purchase everything including the plywood at most Home Depot stores or Lowes. When making a dollhouse from scratch, you are only limited by the amount of money you want to spend on the parts and by your imagination, you can have real working lights, doors and windows that actually open and close, and more unique things.

A nice finished dollhouse can sell for anywhere’s from a few dollars to several thousand dollars, depending upon the skill, time, and uniqueness of the finished project. It is something that can last a lifetime, and would be one of the greatest gifts you could make for your young daughter or a friend, or you can make them and sell them for profit from your own website or on an online site such as eBay. Now, when you find yourself stuck inside on the long cold winter days with nothing to do, head to your basement, or wherever your workshop is set up, and get working on a dollhouse, it’s not just fun and rewarding, it’s also a great way to help fight against the winter blues.

There is a website that describes numerous activities and other methods to help eliminate the Winter Blues, this website is called: Winter Activities – and it may be found at this url: http://www.winter-activities.com

You may publish this article in your ezine, newsletter or on your web site as long as it is reprinted in its entirety and without modification except for formatting needs or grammar corrections.

About the Author: Luzerna Solon, has worked in the field of depression and other aspects involving the Winter Blues for a number of years. She has counseled thousands over the years, and has helped them remove the winter blues from their life with simple activities. Winter Activities

winter-activities.com

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By Julieta Laham

The 2010 Signature Billfish Series closed at Los Sueos Resort and Marina on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica and certainly was an exciting week for all! The series wrapped up the second and final leg of competition on February 20, 2010.

This is truly an international event as a total of 43 teams from the United States, Costa Rica, Nicaragua and Russia battled it out and released a combined total of 1,014 billfish with 994 sailfish and 20 marlin.

We met with a couple of the teams early on in Leg 2, who were in great spirits in spite of some missed opportunities and less-than-terrific luck.

Newcomer Layla a 72 Jim Smith owned by Jim Derrick of Buffalo, NY and his team just recently moved the boat to Los Sueos after several visits here and a newfound love for fishing out of Los Suenos. Their luck was not with them that first day of competition but their enthusiasm was off the charts and the team was ready to tackle the next days challenges.

On their fishing trips to Los Sueos , the team from the Layla likes to be right in the center of the action and enjoys renting fully-equipped luxury condominiums for their stays at the resort.

We also chatted with co-owners of the Ol Salt, Shawn Kooyman and Los Sueos resident Michael Topp whose team fought quite a battle. They ran into a variety of pitfalls and finally arrived exhausted about 11 PM after the first day out knowing that Thursdays catch would be disqualified from the count as they missed the cut off time to turn in their daily score sheets. The second day of tournament week was a tough one for the old Salt as well with only a few bites for the day, they did manage to get on the board scoring 100 points with one sailfish on Friday. The boys from the Ol Salt still had a great attitude and were ready to head out for the final day, finishing with another sailfish on Saturday for a Second Leg total of 200 points.

Both legs of the 2010 tournament had some very close scores throughout the competition. In Leg 1, some of the scores were so close in fact that with so many teams tied, the winners had to be decided by time. Those with the earliest, official times of release break the ties and determined who came out on top.

This was the case for the Top Angler award in the first leg going to Los Sueos Developer and Innovator, Bill Royster.

This years 1st leg winners on the Cerveza are relative newcomers to the Los Sueos Marina but definitely no strangers to fishing or to taking top awards! The Cerveza team, although did not make it this time as far as money, fought hard again in the 2nd leg and did finish respectably in the top ten.

Owner Tom Russell, a regular guest with CR Luxury Rentals is on a great run in the competition here in Costa Rica. Hes been fishing the Cerveza here since December of 2008.

The guys say they owe so much of their success to the Captain of the Cerveza, Butch Davis who is called The Secret Weapon & El Capitan by his team.

Spanish Fly tied with Fuujin at 1700 points but beat their last time taking the 3rd Place position in Leg II and team member Ronnie Fields was Leg IIs Top Angler.

Owner Jeff Cohens, Los Sueos based Da Bait, a 61 Spencer, moved up from 16th place in Leg I to a spectacular 2nd Place win in Leg II with 13 Sails and a late surprise Marlin nabbed by Angler Bob Burnside which threw the team into the second place position. Da Bait finished with 2,700 points and taking 2nd place prize money of $28,000. Captain Curt Lind of Palm Beach, Florida, dubbed Captain Marvel by his teammates also led Da Bait to win the Daily with 800 points on Saturday of Leg II.

Cohen says there are many factors that helped them reach their position in the tournament. When asked how they rose to the occasion he said that fishing with his closest friend and business associate, Pat Parenty as well as the tremendous amount of love and camaraderie among the entire team is the real key that helped them shoot to this years success.

It seems 2nd Place may hold some magic along with luck, skill and hard work. In Leg 1, the 2nd Place team aboard another newcomer, Big Oh, missed the win by only 300 points. Although definitely happy with finishing in the top three they werent going to settle for second best!

In Leg 2, they took the lead on Thursday and held steady and even with a really slow Saturday they still came out on top. The Big Oh finished in first place without a single Marlin, not only taking 1st Place in Leg II but taking top honors as Overall Winner with total prize money of $144,000.

Costa Rica Luxury Rentals congratulates all the participants in the tournament and are here to help with luxury accommodations, tours, airport transportation, tee times or just good advice about almost anything you may think of while visiting Costa Rica. Feel free to contact our Diamond Concierge Service Toll Free 7 Days a week to fulfill your requests.

Well look forward to seeing all the familiar teams and some fresh new competitors beginning in November 2010 at the Los Suenos Marlin Invitational.

CR Luxury Rentals condos and villas are situated on the property of the 1,100 acre Los Sueos Resort and Marina; on the Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica, with easy access from major airports throughout the Americas.

About the Author: CR Luxury Rentals is the premier choice for the discriminating traveler who expects and demands 5 star luxury and customer service, plus we offer fantastic Costa Rica condo rentals that are perfect for any type of vacation.

Costa Rica Condo Rentals

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By Bill Urell

For most individuals they never consider that when they return home from vacation they may be bringing something more than just souvenirs and fond memories. Bed bugs can easily make their way from one locale to another just by grabbing onto a persons clothing.

Most people have absolutely no idea what a bed bug is and how to identify when you have a problem with them. Bed bugs are difficult to see with the naked eye because they are so small. In fact, an adult bed bug is no more than about a quarter of an inch in length.

Bed bugs survive by eating off of warm blooded animals. That is why they so enjoy nestling into the warmth of bed sheets. Many people do not even realize that they have a problem with these small critters at first. It can take months of bites before they are aware that they are being eaten by these bugs each night.

One of the main reasons that it can take people some time to realize that they have a bed bug problem is that the bugs do not show themselves during daylight hours. They hide under floor boards or behind furniture until the lights go out. Once the individual is fast asleep the bugs make their way close to the sleeper and start to feed.

The bites of bed bugs closely resemble the bites that you might expect to get from something like a mosquito. A small, reddish bump may appear on the skin and in some cases it can produce a slight itching reaction as well.

If you do suspect that you have bed bugs you will need to put on your detective cap. There are several places to check to see if you do have this problem. One is right in your bed. Remove the blankets and thoroughly check the sheets. Look in any creases and under the pillows. While you are searching keep in mind that you may find evidence of the bed bugs but not the actual bugs. Bed bugs leave waste material that is either a dark brown or reddish color.

Getting rid of bed bugs can prove to be a challenge. The reason is that the bugs tend to lay eggs in discreet places. The first step you need to take is to throw out all bedding and consider replacing your mattress. After you have done this you need to thoroughly clean the room. Remove any clutter and vacuum all exposed areas. You should also remove any desk or dresser drawers and clean beneath and behind them.

Dealing with bed bugs can be difficult but it is certainly not impossible. Once you discover that you are sharing your home with these unwanted visitors take the necessary steps to rid yourself of them forever.

About the Author: Are you interested in the truth about healthy lifestyles? Bill Urell MA.CAAP-II,reviews only the best fitness plans, tips, and articles. Click here:

bedbugs.best-info-only.com/

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By Rebecca A Simpson

The coat on a Shih Tzu dog can grow quickly and it starts growing right when the little guy is born. Shih Tzu dogs are energetic and nervous so if you feel you are up to the task of cutting your dog’s hair then go ahead, but be careful. If you want to have it done by someone then that choice is yours also. But whatever you do make sure you make the right choice for your dog as getting a Shih Tzu hair cut can be a pretty trying experience for any Shih Tzu pup.

You can probably start doing little cutting tasks here and there at around ten weeks or maybe as early as eight weeks if you can get the pup to stand still and there is anything worth cutting. Try brushing them in with cutting their hair so they feel comfortable, as Shih Tzu dogs love to be brushed. Be very careful and always be ready for your Shih Tzu to make any sudden movements. A good age to start thinking about full cuts is around sixteen weeks.

A Shih Tzu has hair and not fur and that is a rare thing in the dog world so you need to treat your Shih Tzu dog’s coat like you would human hair. When you are cutting think of what would be painful and shocking to you and then amplify that by about ten to understand the effect on your dog. Pulling on the hair when you are cutting, or tugging when you are cutting, or using dull scissors that pull out hair instead of cutting it all are very painful for humans and they are even worse on a Shih Tzu. So when you do your Shih Tzu hair cut keep that in mind.

An area you want to always be sure you cut when you are doing your Shih Tzu hair cut is around the eyes. If you do not feel comfortable doing this then take your Shih Tzu to a professional groomer regularly to have the excess hair cut over the eyes. Not only can hair in the eyes get annoying for your Shih Tzu but it can also cause infection so make sure it is taken care of.

Always make sure your Shih Tzu hair cut makes the dog’s coat shorter in the summer and a little longer in the winter. In the summer it needs to be short otherwise your Shih Tzu will start to experience health problems with the heat. In the winter you can leave it as long as you like, but make sure the dog can still run and walk without tripping over its coat. Some people like to leave little pieces of hair so they can attach bows and ribbons, which is common among owners. The dogs, however, do not always like it.

Giving your Shih Tzu a hair cut yourself is just fine but you may want to watch a professional do it first. After you see what goes into doing a proper cut you might come to realize that the money you pay a professional once a month or so is well worth it to get your Shih Tzu hair cut done right.

About the Author: Rebecca Simpson is an animal lover that owns several indoor pets. This article has good advice on

Shih Tzu grooming

. You can use this article for its resourceful

Shih Tzu grooming tips

.

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By Todd Schmidt

Fairfield Inn by Marriott hotels can be found on both Dean Martin Drive and South Paradise Road. Nestled right next to the famed Las Vegas Strip, either of these two magnificent hotels is superior base for you to feel the pulse of this stunning city. When you come to Las Vegas next time, do not miss out your chance to explore the charm and beauty of fascinating Fairfield Inn hotels. Unlike any other luxury hotels erected in this area, Fairfield Inn by Marriott hotels can provide you with the quiet comfort of home.

Thanks to their prime locations, these two legendary properties are within easy access of all the glitz and glamour of the city. Plus, they could furnish all the gracious pleasures of luxury hotels in the entertainment capital of the world. Savoring the fun and thrill this magic city offers, you are sure to have a blast during your stay at any Fairfield Inn by Marriott hotels.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Las Vegas South

Always fresh and clean, the hotel performs as the premier retreat for your relaxing Las Vegas escape. Artfully seated on Dean Martin Drive, Fairfield Inn & Suites Las Vegas South is only a stone’s throw away from both the internationally renowned Las Vegas Strip and the McCarran International Airport. The property is also in the vicinity of Interstate 15 and 215 Beltway, which makes it a breeze for visitors to drive to the hotel. Fabulous places for you to enhance your hotel experience refer to the MGM Grand, Mandalay Bay, Town Square Las Vegas and the Las Vegas Convention Center.

Fairfield Inn & Suites Las Vegas South will also try to spoil you with Early Eats complimentary breakfast, fast wireless internet, one of a kind exercise rooms and unsurpassed accommodations with plush amenities. This incredible hotel also strives to make your business travel a little bit easier by affording complimentary fax & copy services as well as free local calls. Refreshing heated outdoor swimming pool and spa are also furnished to make your stay exceptional.

Fairfield Inn Las Vegas Airport

Enjoying an unmatchable location, this hotel serves as the best retreat for visitors traveling to Las Vegas. For anyone who opts to stay close to all the excitement of downtown Las Vegas, Fairfield Inn Las Vegas Airport is undoubtedly an ideal refuge. This property is within walking distance of the Strip as well as various renowned casinos. Simply hop on free shuttles afforded by the hotel to head to McCarran International Airport, Las Vegas Convention Center or nearby entertainment venues.

Once you are tired after experiencing all the amusing shopping or entertainment in the surrounding areas, you can also choose to relax in comfortable rooms at the hotel. Start your thrilling day with complimentary hot breakfast provided by Fairfield Inn Las Vegas Airport, and cool off with a dip in expansive outdoor swimming pool after workout in the state-of-the-art fitness center. If you are tired out, lie down in the cozy king bed in your lavish suite to wake up energetically the next morning.

Choices of guest rooms in Fairfield Inn Las Vegas Airport comprise Double Double Room and King Room. All these accommodations are perfect for travelers who appreciate more space. Bet you will feel completely pampered in these relaxing rooms with luxurious bedding, cable television, well-lit work desk, office chair and mini-refrigerator, etc. Take advantage of free high speed internet access to stay connected with your favorite games, social networks or other applications. Also, you can enjoy 24-hour room service, complimentary laundry service and 24 hours Snack Bar & Hot Breakfast at the hotel.

About the Author: When

traveling to Las Vegas

, you must be in need of a home away from home.

Marriott Las Vegas

hotels are aimed to give travelers a sense of home and belonging.

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