A lot of people collect things. Stamps, coins, lovers, etc. I am a huge movie fan and I collect DVDs. I haven't moved on to Blu-ray yet, but like I had to move from albums to CDs, I will have to make this transition too. Thankfully Blu-Ray players also play CDs. To date I have over 300 DVDs (mostly the kids VeggieTales, Disney and SpongeBob), but I never let the kids handle the DVDs and I... read more »

Rock climbing is an unique way to get outside--it is an exhilarating, athletic, and adventurous way to explore the wild. For many, though, the gear, techniques, and expertise needed to climb outdoors, as well as indoors, can be intimidating. This is a quick guide to get yourself out and moving in the vertical frontier. Getting started The easiest way to start rock climbing is at an indoor ... read more »

One of the most frustrating problems for many beginning (and experienced) guitarists is an instrument that won't stay in tune. Although some guitars are simply cheaply made and therefore easily de-tuned, there are a few things you can do to help your instrument stay in tune. Stretch your strings The main reason guitars (and all stringed instruments for that matter) go out of tune is becaus... read more »

CATCH UP ON THAT LONELY NOVEL... Remember that book that you've had laying around for days? The one you've always meant to read, or even started at some point, but never finished? That long sleepless night that creeps up on you is a perfect time to give some attention to that book of yours. It's likely that while reading your eyes will get tired and you will eventually fall a... read more »

The punk bands of the 1980s and 1990s used to encourage young people to "Kill Your TV." Now, the technology of the last few years has allowed us to do just that. Watching TV online is becoming more and more popular for many reasons. Cable and satellite bills are expensive, while watching TV online is completely free. Computer screens are becoming bigger, clearer and more colorful,... read more »

Photography is something just about everybody can enjoy. Young or old, photography is one of those things that everybody is talking about these days (and even back in the day), and it's definitely one of the most fun hobbies out there. You'll get a chance to capture memories and make art all in one. Start out small Don't go out and buy the most expensive camera available right ... read more »

Think writing a novel is hard? Try writing one in thirty days. Join a Group Pick a time, pick a place, and get to work. Writing with a group of other people with the same goals will help motivate you to keep writing every day. Meeting regularly can be useful as you can get ideas as well as encouragement. You don't have to feel like you're the only person writing. During Nat... read more »

When you're writing, a lot of people, many of whom will probably be your instructors, will tell you that you should stick to writing what you know. That's okay for a while, but afterwards, you will probably grow tired of that. It's time to face it, that's a limited way of thinking, and it isn't always the best method of approach in creative writing. However, if you'... read more »

For many writers, the road to becoming a published writer is often long and difficult. Before you can even start to envision all of your literary dreams coming true, you must first begin with the humble query letter. The query letter is merely a way of getting your foot into the door of the publishing industry. You are basically asking an editor or an agent to consider reading your work and dec... read more »

Making or sewing your own clothes can be a lot of fun and provide a huge sense of satisfaction. In addition to saving money, sewing your own garments allow you to make a fashion statement that accentuates your individuality. If you've never tried sewing your own clothes before, here is some advice about how to get started. You'll need a sewing machine Obviously, you will need a sewing... read more »