Mountain Monkeys

Spending the day outside is a great way to spend New Years Day, well and of course any afternoon of almost any weekend. Of course the seasons play an enormous part of any outdoor activity, and with that comes considerations for various regions and areas of the country in which you live. Residents of Southern California may be enjoying different outdoor activities than say those who live in New Hampshire, or any of the other New England states. However, if the weather permits, it’s always a great idea to spend time enjoying the great outdoors. And you should remember to celebrate the particular climate and geographic elements of your region. While those snowbound New Englanders probably don’t have water skiing or surfing on their agendas, they can certainly enjoy some amazing snow drifts and skiing that the Southern California residents will at least have to travel far upstate to enjoy. And for many people from the West Coast, planning a nice romantic stay in one of the great bed and breakfasts found in Vermont, Maine, New Hampshire and Massachusetts.

These ideas should emphasize the diversity and beauty of the many different regions in the United States. And while it’s a great idea to explore and celebrate the various attractions of your own state, it is also a great thing to experience the rest of the country. And depending on what your available time frame and holiday budget allows, you can certainly find incredible outdoor adventure and sporting opportunities that will fit it. This is a special time of year and many people make extra financial investments in their New Year event planning. While it’s not recommended to extend yourself beyond your means, or at least too, there are some great financial resources and an accompanying linkedin profile that can assist you with your trip planning.

Enjoying the beauty of a snow covered New England morning while sipping a delicious cup of tea, cocoa or coffee and then heading out for a little snowboarding, skiing or other adventure. These are also perfect opportunities for snuggling by the fire in the evening and rekindling or renewing relationships. In addition, many East Coast residents dream of nothing more than spending their New Years along the warm shores of Southern California. Arizona is another great southwestern state that enjoys moderate winters and is full of great outdoor hiking and other adventures throughout the season. In fact, Arizona’s main tourist season is through the late fall and winter months. Trips to the Grand Canyon, Painted Desert and Petrified Forest are just a few of the unique geographic elements found in this beautiful state. Regardless of where you are from, or to where you are traveling, there are some great outdoor adventures waiting for you. And it should be emphasized that this is true regardless of your budget. There is an adventure waiting just outside your door. And if you need a little financial assistance at this time of year, for any reason, refer to MoneyMutualTV.com for information.

When most people think golf, they think of business meetings, or perhaps time at the 19th hole. However, there are a surprising number of health benefits to playing golf, or even working on a golf course. Let’s look at some of the ways that time on the golf course can help your health. Read the rest of this entry »

Scuba diving is gaining in popularity around the world. This is because scuba diving allows you to see a beautiful world that many only see in pictures. Imagine diving below the water, experiencing beautiful marine life in a world of serenity. So many people are now experiencing the joy and bliss of scuba diving for recreation, health benefits and relaxation.

Before determining if scuba is right for you, make sure to do plenty of research on this activity. There are many articles and videos available online and several books at your local library regarding scuba diving. If you are interested in getting started, here are just a few things you need to know.

First and foremost, you must do your research and find a beginner diving training program near you. Remember that you need to be healthy in order to scuba dive. Check with your doctor if you are unsure if you meet the physical requirements for diving. Most scuba certification programs can be found locally. You do not have to purchase all of the gear before you begin. Most programs allow you to either borrow or rent all of the equipment necessary to train for scuba diving. Ask about equipment rental and fees associated with the class. Make sure that you find a program that will work with your schedule.

Remember that diving can be difficult to master and requires that you pay attention during classes. This will be essential to secure your safety and those around you on a dive. You will learn how to breathe using the equipment and understand hand signals under water. New divers must become familiar with diving masks, diving fins, buoyancy compensators, weights, diving flags, computers and instrumentation, and diving watches.

You will experience supervised training from a professional guide. Likely, your guide will need to be certified by one of the following groups:

Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI) http://www.padi.com/scuba/

Scuba Schools International (SSI) http://www.divessi.com/

National Association of Underwater Instructors (NAUI) http://www.naui.org/

World Organization of Scuba Diving (WOSD) http://www.wosd.com/

Scuba training can last anywhere from a few days to several weeks. Make sure if you are planning a vacation that you leave plenty of time for this type of certification. Ask in advance how long the certification process takes when you are researching courses. Remember, it’s important that you do not try to rush through a course. Scuba diving is a fun activity, but it’s important that you remember the risks and safety involved.

Once you have become certified, you will work on beginners’ dives. There are many scuba resorts that offer these types of dives. After certification, you can begin to enjoy the open waters. The sky is the limit on the places in the world you can go and see. Beautiful coral reefs and thousands of marine life are awaiting you. Once you determine that scuba diving is for you, you may want to consider purchasing your own equipment rather than continuously rent. Since the equipment is relatively expensive, make certain that you plan on doing several dives in your lifetime before making that commitment.

There are many beautiful locations around the world for scuba diving. One of the most popular locations for scuba diving and other fun, family-friendly activities is San Diego, Calif. There are so many attractions that you can experience in addition to scuba diving such as the San Diego Zoo and LegoLand. This is why San Diego is a premier location for scuba lovers. Did you know that there are packages to see many of San Diego’s parks, tours, museums and other attractions? The Go San Diego Card, for example, is one of the most comprehensive experience packages available for the San Diego area. Are you ready to start your scuba diving and travel experience?

There’s no better feeling than driving down the highway heading for some distant destination.  And when you finally get there after a day at the wheel its time to relax.  If alcohol is part of your downtime its good to be aware of some facts regarding driving and intoxication.

What is the difference between DUI and DWI?  Well, they both refer to drunk driving.  DUI stands for driving under the influence, while DWI stands for driving while intoxicated.  Basically they both mean driving while under the influence of alcohol and/or drugs.  Some states treat them the same while in others they are judged as separate crimes.  If this is the case then DUI is classified as the lesser charge.

To test for these charges the blood alcohol concentration (BAC) is determined upon arrest.  The BAC measurement shows the percentage of alcohol in the blood.   A driver is deemed intoxicated of the BAC is above 0.08 percent – although a lower reading can result in an arrest too.  A DWI may be reduced to a DUI if the BAC is not too high and also if it is the perpetrators first arrest for drunk driving.

If a state includes a zero tolerance policy then it does not distinguish between the a DUI and a DWI.  The only criteria that counts is whether the BAC is above the legal limit. In certain states the term DUI is used when drugs or alcohol or any impairing substance is the intoxicant.   In these states DWI infers alcohol. The drugs do not have to be illegal ones either – prescription drugs or over the counter drugs fall into this category too.

If the arrested driver is under the age of 21 then they can be held to stricter levels of BAC.  These levels vary between .01 and .05 percent depending on the state.

If you are arrested for a DUI or a DWI then you should contact an experienced attorney immediately.

Information provided by the New Mexico DUI Attorney

This guest blog post is brought to you by Brian Johnson. Brian is a freelance writer and currently obtaining his online edd degree from Creighton University.

You may have heard of them. They are called barefoot running shoes or minimalist shoes. Perhaps the most popular shoes to adapt to those wishing to run barefoot are those from Vibram http://www.vibramfivefingers.com. Although this footwear may look odd, those that use these shoes and other similar models swear by their effects.

Interest in minimalist or barefoot running has exploded in recent years. Many runners and cross-trainers are looking for this footwear. These shoes are designed to help the runner emulate barefoot running while simultaneously protecting the foot from hazards. Before you switch from your traditional sneaker, here are a few things to consider about barefoot running.

Since the beginning of humanity, barefoot running and walking has been around. It was only until the middle of the 1900s that running shoes became mass produced. These shoes were designed to help improve cushioning and give more stability for the runner. However, lately runners have been wondering whether all of the bells and whistles of the modern shoe really prove any benefit. They, instead, have decided to go back to the original design of running for man—a minimalist shoe that would help protect their feet while allowing them to run “barefoot.”

Some have indicated that they believe these minimalist shoes means they could run faster and are likely to have less injury. However, others argue that to run in these shoes means going back to running on the balls of ones feet. This is because traditional, padded running shoes help provide the cushion necessary for elevated heels and a heel-first strike to the stride. In order to effectively (and safely) run in minimalist shoes, the runner must go back to the natural running pattern of front of foot strikes first.

It’s important to also consider the shape of your foot before switching running shoe. For example, those with flat feet may have a great difficulty adapting to minimalist shoes. Those with higher arches reportedly have less trouble adapting their running strides. Remember that these shoes are not for everyone. In fact, it would be recommended that anyone considering a change in shoe consult their doctor. Those with any type of muscle or skeletal issue may do a great deal of damage to their bodies by changing their footwear. Remember, the shoe we wear is essential to our posture.

If you are considering a switch, also consider where you typically do most of your running. Even Vibram makes shoes with varying sole dimensions based on the running surface the runner typically finds his or herself on. For instance, if you are running mostly on a treadmill, a thinner sole may be appropriate. However, for those who run outdoors (on rocks, for example) a thicker tread should be used. Additionally, certain soles are made with more traction while others are not. Many shoe stores will offer free consultations on your running stride and foot shape. Consider taking advantage of such offers in order to get a better idea of what running shoe you require.

Although it may not seem like that big of a deal, the type of running shoe one uses can have huge health effects. Not only will you be more likely to stay in shape with a shoe that is comfortable for you, but the wrong shoe can actually compromise your body and result in increased likelihood for injury.

So when it comes to minimalist shoes, the answer really depends on the individual. While most everyone can attempt barefoot running, only certain individuals will find it beneficial. Those with flat feet, tendonitis and other conditions may do damage by running in minimalist shoes. This is why it’s important to consult a doctor if you suffer from any type of condition that affects your running. It’s always important to take time to make wise health decisions.

Personally, I still prefer regular thick soled running shoes.  Although many of my runner friends rave about the barefoot shoes, and claim they’ll never switch back. Have you tried them, and if so which do you prefer?

Climbing the mountain ” because it’s there .” The thought comes through everyone’s mind, or nearly everyone, who has spent a significant portion of any day alone on the side of a rock. For some of the more daunting moments, it can be a kind of a mantra, running through the narrative of the ego until the climber is calm enough to make another move in another direction. It speaks to the clarity available to anyone, but pursued only by a handful, and contains a wisdom that seems to be present in all paths, in every spiritual awakening.

With a little experience, something interesting does tend to happen to nearly every climber as well. A couple of close scrapes can teach even the most resolutely impatient personality shift, and learn the value of preparation. That does seem to carry through in other areas of life as well. It’s not just for the mountain, although the mountain is where it is practiced, and where preparation can reap the greatest rewards. And it does become its own self-sustaining mechanism, where climbers can see its benefit in every level of preparation for the journey. So while it might make sense to look at sites like http://www.performanceplustire.com to find the best tire at the best price, there’s something subtler going on. Taking care of small details can be a maddening practice for the impatient, but when one learns to grow more patient, the details start to take on a greater importance.

In climbing, and this extends metaphorically into every other area of life, the road trip before and after can be as essential and invigorating as the big event. This is apparent in longer journeys, of course, but not everyone is able to bike to the tip of the continent . Even on trips that are much shorter, to an adjoining state or to the mountains right outside the city, the road there and back can hold as much mystery as the climb up. Climbing is what teaches the climber to become aware of these moments. It is certainly true that awareness and attention can save one’s skin in terms of climbing, or money in terms of the drive there, but there’s more to it. Those who have been in extended states where attention to the moment is essential start to get a glimpse of something just beyond the veil, and that can be the mysterious thing that keeps one moving forward, to another mountain on another road, attention at home in the fleeting here and now.

We all love the great outdoors. Well at least those of us who love it, really love it. And this includes all of the great sports, activities and adventures that go along with it. The wilderness provides some excellent opportunities for rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. Meanwhile, it also has the capacity to push us beyond our limits, discover new things about ourselves and to conquer some of our fears. Of course the possibilities aren’t limited to these two extremes, and most of the people who getaway for the weekend or even a single afternoon enjoy a variety of activities somewhere in the middle of the extremes. We all love to hop in our cars with the trusted Michelin tires and head out into the wilderness, though what we do there can vary.

It was previously mentioned that there are a diverse assortment of activities to engage in while you’re out exploring nature. And some are pretty intense and based on the thrill seeking adrenaline junkies, while others are meant to calm the soul and quiet the mind. One person might see a weekend with the extreme sports crowd as their path to Nirvana, and spend their time bungee jumping, or white water rafting, or one of a numerous other options. Meanwhile, the individual seeking peace and quiet as well as a balanced oneness with the environment might take a solo hike, spend time exploring the hieroglyphs and local wildflowers or pick a remote spot to practice their tai chi.

All of these options are possible and commonly practiced in various parks and recreation areas, designated forests and lake regions surrounding and just outside of cities. It also pertains to national parks that require a longer drive and proper tire rims . Most people enjoy the idea of getting out of town for the weekend or a day, and these are some of the common activities we enjoy, though the rest on the edges of the extremes. Somewhere in the middle of these extremes are the people who enjoy a nice canoe trip down the river or a bit of fishing out on the lake. Spending time with family and friends over an open campfire, properly maintained and extinguished of course, are some of the best weekend plans many people can think of. Regardless of which of these populations you might fit into, including those people who fit them all, spending time outdoors is good for you and you’re almost guaranteed to enjoy yourself. What more could you ask for?

If you are a potential home buyer you may be inundated with lots of information, and some of it may be pretty confusing.  If you are looking around for a mortgage loan and have seen the term interest only mortgage loan you may be baffled as to what it means.

An interest only loan is one in which the home owner pays only the interest part of the loan each month, with the principal amount remaining unchanged.   Once the interest only period is completed then the home owner has the option to pay off the principal or change the loan to a conventional type paying off both the interest and principal.  The advantage of the interest only loan is that the payment is much lower than a traditional mortgage payment.

With the conventional type of mortgage there is a fixed payment usually made over a certain period of time – which may not be permanent.   With the interest only loan, there is a designated period where it is interest only, before reverting to principal and a variable interest rate.

The major disadvantage of the interest only mortgage is that when the interest only period is over and it converts to a normal loan then the mortgage payments can be higher than for the conventional type of loan.

So these loans are useful if it is a short term loan – for a limited period.  Be aware that no equity is built up during the interest only period.  When the mortgage payment goes up then there is always the chance of foreclosure if the home owner is not in a position to make the monthly payment.

It is always advisable to consult with a professional before taking out any type of loan.  The mortgage calculator is a useful tool to determine the various financial options that you can consider.

It is always a heartwarming feeling when a community comes together to remember someone who has made a difference in their lives as well as their community. There are so many people who dedicate so much time to making their community a better place and it is always nice when their efforts are not only remembered but continued within the community.

The city of Rockville will host the very first Carl Henn Memorial Bike Ride in remembrance of the Rockville resident, Carl Henn, who passed away in July of 2010. Henn was a longtime resident and was known as a civic activist, he made a very large impact on the city and his contributions will not be forgotten by the residents.

Henn was 48 when he passed away and he lived in Rockville for more than 20 years. He had a vested interest in civic activism and he served on both the City’s Environment Commission and the Rockville Bicycle Advisory Committee. He was also the president of the Hungerford Civic Association. Henn was also in instrumental character in the creation of three community gardens within the city.

The Rockville Bike Advisory Committee has planned and will host the bike ride. The ride is an 11 mile memorial ride beginning at city hall. The planned route will make stops at four community gardens and the registration for the event is free and will take place on at the starting point.

Carl Henn was loved by the community and made a huge impact on many people’s lives. He worked hard to make his community a better place for people to live in and his memory lives on with the people in Rockville. This bike ride will serve to remind the people of Rockville to always work for something you feel strongly about. This memorial ride is proof that one person can make a huge impact on the community and the people around them.

Now that it is summer time, it is a great time to pull out that old bike and fix it up so you can go for a ride. If you haven’t used your bike in a while and it is looking a little shabby, you might want to pull out your bicycle repair manual to see if you can fix any of the minor problems the bike may be facing.

Once you have fixed up all of the minor repairs, you can then customize it to give it a fresh new look. A new paint job will have the bike looking good as new. Before you decide to paint it, you will need to choose a paint color and the correct paint. It is also a good idea to look up step by step painting instructions that way you can make sure you do not mess up any of the gears. After a fresh coat of paint, add whatever accessories you desire such as streamers, a bell, baseball cards or just keep it classic.

When the weather is nice, take your bike out for a ride. Instead of driving to the ice cream shop around the corner, grab your friends and some bikes and bike on over there. You can also go for a neighborhood cruise or if you are more adventurous you can take it out to some trails to explore the outdoors.

Biking is a great form of exercise and will help you keep fit and feeling good. When riding a bike, it does not need to be strenuous exercise but can simply be a nice short ride. If you are looking for something a bit more exhausting though, you can mountain bike or cycle, both are very common forms of exercise and both are fun.

So instead of sitting indoors all day and watching television, find that old bike of yours, fix it up and go for a ride.