Purchase Tents Online

Shrine Circus Tycoon

2008-05-17T16:54:00.001-07:00

Product DescriptionShrine: Circus Tycoon lets you create your own version of the greatest show on Earth. Manage 60 different circus performers -- keep the human cannonball and the high divers happy and make sure they deliver for the audience. Everything under the big tent is under your control, from the trapeze acts to the lion tamers. You can even just kick back and watch the action with the crowd - while enjoying lifelike sound effects featuring applause, whistles, jeers & boos. Discover & explore the assortment of mini-games - from the test of strength to catching pickpockets and finding lost childrenFrom the ManufacturerBuild a circus show from the ground up in this exciting strategy game. Build 6 different big tops from a single ring to the three-ring big top. Choose from over 30 different side shows, attractions, and rides, plus more than 30 acts starring 40 performers, capable of over 100 different tricks! It's your job to train the animals, select the performers, add side shows and midway games, and keep the employees happy--or they might not perform!

If you want a good camping vacation and want to find gold I have just the spot for you. Princton BC was noted for the gold found in the late 1880s. You will find Granite city which is now a ghost town. Lots of gold and platinum was found in the area.

To get to the gold camping ground from Vancouver BC take the number one highway to Hope. Be sure to spend some time exploring the area as the gold miners used hope as a jump of point to the Caribou. As you leave hope you will that route 3 towards Manning Park. After arriving at manning park for a short stop you are only 40 minutes to the camping site.

The park has lots to offer including a restaurant, visitors booth, restrooms, and park tables on green grass for you to rest. You will find a dog play area as you turn off the highway and enter the park it is just on the right side as you enter. Be sure to pick up after your pet the park supplys containers for this.

As you leave the west gate on the highway you will find a gas station with a small store the ice cream cones are extra large. From the west gate you are about 30 minutes to you campsite.

This road changes from four lane to two lane as you go down the mountain. Watch for wildlife you will see lots. The campsite is just 30 miles away watch for the sign Elk Ridge Outdoors on the right hand side of the road if you shoot past the turn in there is a place to turn around just up at the next corner but be very care for on coming traffic as you turn.

As you enter the camp road you will see a road that goes straight and a road to your right. If you have a smaller rig you can go straight and check in at the main house the road is bumpy and the turn around at the house is not very big.

If you have a large rig, take the right hand road and follow it all the way down the side of the ridge. Note use low gear as the road in is very steep and bumpy with some very tight turns. In some places you will be right along the edge of the road which goes straight down for a few hundred ft. If your passenger is nervous get them to watch you and not the road. This is a dirt road be aware of traffic coming up as the road is narrow in some places.

If you are towing a car behind you motor home un hook the car after you turn in to the main campsite road and get your second driver to go ahead of you or drive the car down and get a good look at the road before you take you rig down

Once down at the bottom you will find A large A framed lodge and 6 smaller cabins which are all for rent by the day or week. The cabins are all new as of 2004. You will find 12 sites along the river and some set back in the trees with some out in the open. There is an over flow around the back of the A-frame.

Amenities are primitive as they have pit outhouses and you will only be able to get water when the generator is running. The showers should be up and running by 2006. They have a large wood fired hot tube just above the beach The scenery is absolutely fabulous you will find gold in various quantities all along the river. All gold hunting must be by hand no power equipment allowed

Good fishing is found all along the river and the swimming is great with shallow rapids to tube on. They are on the net at www dot elkkridgeoutdoors dot com.

Ranger Bob has been having fun camping for years and wants to share all his knowledge with you so be sure to visit him at Camping-For-Fun

Eureka Tetragon 9 Family 9-by 9-Foot Four-Person Tent

2008-05-15T15:24:00.001-07:00

Eureka! Tetragon Tents are ready to tackle the rugged outdoors! This popular Tetragon series offers exceptional value for car camping, base camp or 3-season backpacking. With side windows for venting, clear windows (one on each side) in the fly, built-in mud mat and hinged gear loft organizer, these are far superior to ordinary dome tents. It's got it all: Self-supporting, 2-pole dome design for fast and easy set-up; Hooded fly front and rear permits venting in any weather; Zippered roof vent for increased air circulation; Side opening door for easy entry; Clips quickly and easily attach tent to frame sections; Sewn-in floor; Walls and floor: 70-denier nylon taffeta; Fly: 75-denier StormShield polyester; Netting: 40-denier no-see-um mesh; Poles: 11 mm (Tet. 9). Make your camping experience an enjoyable one! Order Today! Eureka! Tetragon 9 Tent, Green
Customer Review: Great tent for the price
I purhased this tent after looking everywhere, online, dept and discount stores. I wanted a good sturdy tent that I could stand up in for car camping (tired crawling into my backpacking tents) I wanted something of decent durablity and quality, but didnt want to pay $400+ for a name like North Face, Sierra Designs etc... I did know that where I was going to use it could be VERY windy, so I decided against the dept stores. So far this tent has performed flawlessly, on a trip to Joshua Tree NP we encountered some some very gusty winds with no problems. You do need to make sure you really guy it out well using all the guy out points on the fly (have to buy rope and stakes for this) Once you have done this the tent is falrly bomber for a tent of its size and price.
Customer Review: gREAT dEAL!
This is a grat little tent. It has plenty of space for two adults and it withstood a Burning Man dust strom, more than once. It is easy to set up. i am a basic non camper so it only took me a few minutes to set this tent up and secure it. We loved this tent. Can't wait to try it again.

I'm fond of this project, because it can be done in any setting. Barometers are designed to be used indoors, so you do not need access to the outdoors.

This simple tool is a wonderful way to observe and learn about changes in air pressure. Use your webcam or camcorder to keep track of weather changes.

Barometer - Measure Air Pressure

Materials:

clear, straight-neck glass bottle (about 12 oz.)
clear glass jar (about 18 oz.)
food coloring
rubber band
straight pin
pot with water for testing the idea
notebook, pen or pencil
(optional) webcam, camcorder

Procedure:

1. Clean all labels from the jar and bottle

2. Fill the jar with water to just over the mouth by an inch.

3. Add a few drops of food coloring.

4. Tip the bottle and jar enough to let air bubbles escape.

5. Slide the rubber band onto the jar. Position it at the same level as the water.

6. Place the barometer in a place out of direct sunlight but where it is visible.

7. As the water rises and falls in the neck of the bottle, use the rubber band to mark the new level.

Testing this idea:

Take a large cooking pot and fill it with water. What happens to the water level when you press down on it? What happens when you remove your hands? Can you relate to how the non visible air around you would follow the same pattern.

High pressure happens when air is pressing down on the earth. What does your barometer do when there is high pressure? Low pressure happens when the air is rising. What happens to your barometer? What do the clouds look like when there's high pressure and when there's low pressure? Do you notice patterns during morning, afternoon or evening observations?

Weather is always changing. Use the barometer with other weather machines, like the anemometer, wind compass and hygrometer for a full picture of weather activity.

Writer and naturalist JJ Murphy, http://www.WriterByNature.com, offers creative nature curriculum, wild food recipes, fiction, poetry, articles and writing services for individuals, entrepreneurs, small businesses and ecologically aware companies.

EYELET PLIERS / HOLE PUNCH TOOL + 500 GROMMETS for LEATHER FABRICS TENTS CANVAS

2008-05-14T20:13:00.001-07:00

2 Essential Tools in 1 Plier!

Use it to punch holes in leather, plastic, canvas etc, or use it to set grommets. 500 grommets included!

Features:

6 Standard Punches Size Range 1/8" - 7/32"
Grommet Setting tool Anvils
500 Brass Grommets inside diameter 5/32"

Who doesn't crave a vacation in a sunny climate? Sunny holidays are the perfect thing to beat the winter blues, or just experience a change of scene. When planning your next journey towards the equator, here are a few things to keep in mind.

Take the time a few months before your trip to figure out your travel arrangements. You can often get great discounts on hotel rooms or other accommodations if you book early. Talk to a travel agent or go online to a travel booking website to find the best deals. You might even find a package where you get your flight and your hotel for one low price.

It is important to keep your money safe when you travel. Many tourists opt for traveler's checks, which can be converted quickly into cash. These days, it is very easy to travel solely with plastic; you'll be hard-pressed to find a city where the shops and restaurants don't take major credit cards. ATMs are everywhere at your disposal when you need to withdraw money. Additionally, if you misplace your plastic or, in the worst case scenario, it gets stolen, you can easily call your credit card company to cancel the card or dispute any charges. Just make sure to keep the crucial phone numbers in a place separate from your wallet, just in case that goes missing too.

If you are traveling with children, make sure that they are going to have enough recreational activities to keep them busy and out of your hair. Nothing puts a damper on your sunny, dream vacation faster than whining, bored children. Check into a hotel that has play areas or supervised pools for their entertainment. Many hotels offer childcare services as well and safe, child-centered activities. This way you can leave the kids in good hands and go off to explore the grown-up scene, which brings us to our next holiday element...

Nightclubs! If you and your significant other are the partying types, be sure to investigate the nightlife of your destination in advance of your trip. What are the bars and clubs like? Are there safe places to go drinking or dancing where you'll encounter other tourists? You'll have your best luck in places with a reputation for late night partying. Try Las Vegas or Key West. These are sunny destinations that stay just as fun when the sun goes down.

There are so many activities to choose from in sunny climates like Spain. Just rent good property in Torrevieja where you can unwind after a day outdoors and you can spend your day swimming or lounging by the pool, drinking boat drinks. You can fish or snorkel. You can go jet-skiing or scuba diving. You can also explore aquariums and maritime museums if you are married to the luxury of air-conditioning. Make sure to pack lots of sunscreen and floppy hats to shield your winter skin from the equatorial climate. Try not to stay in the sun too long. Nothing ruins a beach vacation faster than a first degree sunburn. Dress appropriately for the hot weather. Bathing suits and minimal clothing are your best choice in sunny locations.

Leroy Calstard's detailed articles are found on large numbers of websites tied to information on Villajoyosa. Sharing his passion in detailed writings, he improved his skill on stories about spanish property in torrevieja.

Eureka Tetragon 9 Family 9-by 9-Foot Four-Person Tent

2008-05-13T16:47:00.001-07:00

Make sure you are allowed to start fires where you are going. The Forest Service discourages campfires because they cause a hazard and leave an ugly scar in the forest. So if possible use a stove for low-impact (no trace) camping. If you have to start a fire - if you are lost it may make a difference for survival - here's how.

Pack your own firewood if you can. If you gather wood in the forest to burn, use only wood from the ground that you can break with your hands. Keep your fire small.

Choose a place away from tree roots and branches, a place where a fire was lit in the past if you can find one. Clear a circle about 10 feet in diameter and build the fire in the center. Taking away all of the debris increases the chance that the fire will spread.

Gather tinder (easily burning small fuel like fire starters, dead evergreen twigs, dry dead bark); kindling (dry sticks); firewood (larger wood). Start by placing the kindling crisscross over the tinder. The general rule is to go from small to large. You can fuzz sticks to make them burn better-just whittle the outside into scales.

If you are stuck without matches, you can start a fire using a long, thin stick and twirling it fast between your palms with a board with some tinder next to the point of friction. Or use a magnifying glass to focus the rays of the sun on a piece of paper to start a fire.

Cone Fire: Make a tepee of tinder and sticks, with the tinder inside. Cone fires burn fast.

Hunter's Fire: This is also a quick fire. Start a small fire, then as coals start forming, put two small logs straddling the fire, so the wind blows between them. Let them support the pot as they burn.

Keyhole Fire: This is a good long-lasting fire. With stones, mark out the shape of a keyhole. The long section should be 3-6 feet long, wide enough to support pots. Start a fire in the circular section and push burning wood down into the corridor as needed to heat pots.

Pyramid Fire: Put down tinder, then build a log cabin of wood around it. On top lay wood to make the whole thing into a box.

Never leave a fire alone. Pour water and dirt over it twice before you leave. Stir the embers, make sure the fire is cold. If you see steam, it is still not out. Bury the ashes and put forest debris over the spot.

KiyaSama is an author on http://www.Writing.Com/ which is a site for Writers.

Beach/Picnic Mat - Solid Green Design

2008-05-11T21:02:00.000-07:00

A cute little accessory to carry with you to the beach. Very convenient and useful design. Very easy to clean and maintain. Can be used at the beach, at a park, by the pool or just about anywhere you would like to chill and soak in some sun. Makes a great gift for family and friends
Customer Review: Great mat for two!
I love this mat. The green is very natural looking as well as the bamboo. I used it to picnic and it was great for boyfriend and I. It is very comfortable too! Love it!
Customer Review: Nice beach accessory
This mat, I actually ordered it in blue, is nice for the beach. It doesn't blow like towels do and stays on the sand. It is very easy to pack as well. The middle seam did rip a little on the first try, but it was easily fixed. It was worth the money!!

Typically, the thought of war conjures up images of "killing" the enemy. While this is the primary activity that happens while engaging those who would do us harm, there are other behind-the-scenes activities that can bring victory. The following anecdote comes from my classmate at Denver Seminary who is a Navy nurse aspiring to become a military chaplain.

...we routinely scooped up and medically treated seriously wounded Iraqi insurgents that became injured in their own offensive attacks against us, whether rushing us in a road check point in a car that was armed or accidentally setting off one of their own (improvised explosive devices) IEDs while planting it on the side of the road in darkness.

...taking these Iraqi guys back to our hospital tents or ships for lifesaving and costly treatment is not typically popular with much of the American public, nor many of the U.S. fighting troops that would sometimes be receiving medical treatment only feet away from their attacker. (However,) it seemed the right and biblical thing to do to help the helpless if we could..... (Some might ask:) "Why spend our valuable supplies or the last of our morphine on him?"

My classmate, Chris, shared this anecdote while we were studying Philippians 1:27-28a:

"Whatever happens, conduct yourself in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. Then whether I come and see or only hear about you in my absence, I will know that you stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for faith of the gospel, without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you." The Philippians had vicious enemies who were maligning and putting many of them in prison. The Apostle Paul told them to stay focused on Christian living even in the midst of persecution.

Showing mercy to an attacker is not a flippant act. Grace, forgiveness, and strong sense of calling is required. Those who do are fighting a battle just as those who wield fire power on the field. Mercy is simply another kind of power -- it is a spiritual sword that can pierce hardened hearts on both sides of the conflict. May this medical ministry continue, as it will teach forgiveness and peace and yield results over time in that part of the world.

Lisa is a Christian writer who explores the joy and pain of the human experience. Whether at home or on international travel, she loves to study and write about interesting people and lessons gleaned from their examples. For real income she writes Bible study curriculum that is also linked to her people study. She resides in Denver, Colorado.

2 Pack - 27 Watts 5500K Color corrected Day Light Fluorescent Lamp Photo Bulb

2008-05-09T16:03:00.001-07:00

This is a fluorescent 27 watts energy saving daylight photo bulb (5500 Kelvin temp.). This Fluorescent lamp bulb emulates a soft daylight measured at full spectrum color of 90 CRI at 1800 lumens. Lifespan: 10,000 hours. Ideal for all Tungsten Continuous Lighting Kit. This photo bulb would cost you $21 each at your local retail store. Best price combo on the internet. **Limited Time Promo**
Customer Review: GREAT SERVICE
Great service and product. Works perfect for company product photo shoots. Would definitely buy from this vendor again.
Customer Review: Daylight Florescent Lamps
Really, whats to say. The lamps either work or they don't. I will say that besides the fact that they did fit my needs very well, shipping was prompt and items arrived packed well and in perfect condition. Yes I will order lamps from these folks again and save myself a bunch of miles driving and navigating through the crowd at Home Depot.

Here's a surprise for you, something that nobody ever forgets - driving along the endless plains of South Dakota, up ahead you see rising out of the featureless plain, a range of mountains covered in pine trees. These are the legendary Black Hills of South Dakota and Wyoming, and they are full of great scenery and things to do.

The Black Hills and Badlands of South Dakota are some of the most popular motor home destinations in the country. It makes a great vacation spot, or stop along your way across the Great Plains to the Rockies and the Great American West beyond.

One of the sites that is a must-see in the Black Hills is Mount Rushmore. These masterfully carved faces in the mountain cliffs of our most esteemed former presidents are considered to be a monument to American democracy. We've all seen them in history textbooks and on TV, but there's nothing like actually seeing them "face to face" to appreciate just how giant they are.

Another site of important historical significance is the Crazy Horse Memorial. This monument to another of history's heroes includes a museum, shrine and memorial service to the great Sioux leader. It is important to the heritage of all North American Indians, as well as Americans of any ancestry.

If you want to get out and really see the majestic preponderance of pine forests up close, there's no better way than the George S. Mickelson Trail. This trail was created in 1998, and winds itself 109 miles through the Black Hills. There are covered bridges, gentle slopes, and beautiful scenery. You can hike it or bike it, and there are lots of trailheads.

For those who want to get out and see the land in your motor home, the scenic drives of Custer State Park are ideal. There are a variety of roads that take you all over the Black Hills, where you can see its unique scenery and wildlife.

Finally, there is Badlands National Park, where you can see buttes and eroded rock formations that tell the ancient pre-history of this remarkable land. Some people have described the Badlands as otherworldly. Looking at some of these rock formations, you can't believe that they were not formed by the hand of man. That is exactly the kind of unique beauty that makes the Badlands such a popular destination for motor home enthusiasts.

One of the best places to stay in the Black Hills/Badlands area is Lazy J RV Park and Campground, located just south of Rapid City. It is close enough to the city to be convenient, but outside of town enough that you'll have mountains right at your doorstep. Best of all, it is family friendly and fully equipped for RVs. They also have a variety of activities for folks of any age.

Another great place is Beaver Lake Campground in Custer, South Dakota. They have sites for all different sized motor homes, and they are all big and shady. They also have a heated pool and waterslide for the kids to enjoy. Rates vary from $23 to $25.

If you want to have the Black Hills right at the door of your motor home, try Whispering Pines Campgrounds and Lodging in Rapid City. The campground is located right in between Mt. Rushmore and Deadwood, and the rates are very reasonable, ranging from $16 to $25. They accommodate RVs, campers and tents, and also have cabins for a more luxurious stay.

Visiting unique landscapes all across the country is what it means to own a motor home. You can take all the comforts of home to all the unique sites throughout America. Before you go, though, make sure you're well equipped. Visit Bankston Motor Homes for your RV needs. http://www.bankstonmotorhomes.com/

Texsport Cumberland Vestibule Tent

2008-05-08T16:15:00.001-07:00

Suitable for six campers, vestibule-style tent accommodates a family during three seasons. An awning over main door adds extra weather protection, and a removable mud flap outside the door helps keep the tent clean. Three D-style doors and three windows with zippered storm flaps and large roof panels let in lots of light and air and are made of fine mesh to screen out insects as small as no-see-ums. Measuring 58 inches high at its tallest point, the 11-feet x 9-feet tent provides 99 square feet of space. It sets up on a hub-cap pole system with shock-corded fiberglass poles. Durable steel clips secure tent to frame. Heavy-duty taffeta walls are flame-retardant. The rainfly is rip-stop press print. The floor is rip-stop polyethylene. Stakes and a carry/storage bag come with the tent. Setup instructions are included.

Amazon.com Tent Guide
Selecting a Tent
Fortunately, there are all kinds of tents for weekend car campers, Everest expeditions, and everything in-between. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

Expect the Worst
In general, it's wise to choose a tent that's designed to withstand the worst possible conditions you think you'll face. For instance, if you're a summer car camper in a region where weather is predictable, an inexpensive family or all purpose tent will likely do the trick--especially if a vehicle is nearby and you can make a mad dash for safety when bad weather swoops in! If you're a backpacker, alpine climber or bike explorer, or if you like to car camp in all seasons, you'll want to take something designed to handle more adversity.

Three- and Four-Season Tents
For summer, early fall and late spring outings, choose a three-season tent. At minimum, a quality three season tent will have lightweight aluminum poles, a reinforced floor, durable stitching, and a quality rain-fly. Some three-season tents offer more open-air netting and are more specifically designed for summer backpacking and other activities. Many premium tents will feature pre-sealed, taped seams and a silicone-impregnated rain-fly for enhanced waterproofness.

For winter camping or alpine travel, go with a four season model. Because they typically feature more durable fabric coatings, as well as more poles, four-season tents are designed to handle heavy snowfall and high winds without collapsing. Of course, four-season tents exact a weight penalty of about 10 to 20 percent in trade for their strength and durability. They also tend to be more expensive.

Domes and Tunnels
Tents are broadly categorized into two types, freestanding, which can stand up on their own, and those that must be staked down in order to stand upright. Freestanding tents often incorporate a dome-shaped design, and most four-season tents are constructed this way because a dome leaves no flat spots on the outer surface where snow can collect. Domes are also inherently stronger than any other design. Meanwhile, many three-season models employ a modified dome configuration called a tunnel. These are still freestanding, but they require fewer poles than a dome, use less fabric, and typically have a rectangular floor-plan that offers less storage space than a dome configuration. Many one and two-person tents are not freestanding, but they make up for it by being more lightweight. Because they use fewer poles, they can also be quicker to set up than a dome.

Size Matters
Ask yourself how many people you'd like to fit in your fabric hotel now and in the future. For soloists and minimalists, check out one-person tents. If you're a mega-minimalist, or if you have your eye on doing some big wall climbs, a waterproof-breathable bivy sack is the ticket. Some bivy sacks feature poles and stake points to give you a little more breathing room. Also, if you don't need bug protection and you want to save weight, check out open-air shelters.

Families who plan on car camping in good weather can choose from a wide range of jumbo-sized tents that will accommodate all your little ones with room to spare. A wide range of capacities is also available for three- and four-season backpacking and expedition tents. Remember, though, the bigger the tent you buy, the heavier it will be, although it's easy to break up the tent components among several people in your group. It's also helpful to compare the volume and floor-space measurements of models you're considering.

One of the most frightening experiences you can ever imagine is waking up to the sound of elephant footsteps right outside your tent. This was my wake up call on my first Botswana safari expedition.

During the autumn month of April, me and my close friend Michelle went on our usual yearly escapade. We were like two girls seeking a little adventure, camping in the heart of the Botswana wilderness. We were staying in bush camps in the Moremi Wildlife Reserve in the Okavango Delta. A place filled with promise of adventure, but I dont think elephants creating havoc in our campsite was something either of us expected.

Big bullies
It was a breezy cool early morning. The signs that winter were approaching was becoming clear. Michelle woke me up. Alarmed we sat in our safari tent listening to the sound of something approaching. It didnt take long before we realized that it was a small group of elephants moving in on our campsite. The small group turned out to be two young bulls travelling together, looking for an easy meal.

We unzipped our window as softly and as wide open as we dared, for it is a common fact that young bulls, like these two, can show quite aggressive behaviour. We sat there for what felt like an eternity watching them sniffing around, pushing over and shoving around the camp. I can tell you that luck was on our side that morning, because they never showed any real interest in our tents. A good thing that our safari tents are also situated on raised teak platforms, which also provided some kind of sense of security. I breathed a sigh of relief when the two continued on their merry way.

The Moremi Wildlife Reserve
As soon as our two uninvited guests were gone, everybody came out of their tents, adrenalin pumping; the atmosphere was filled with excitement. During our hearty breakfast our guides informed us that the occurrence was not unusual. We were after all in their territory now. This was just the beginning of five days filled with Africas wildlife set in what is most certainly nature at its most beautiful.

The reserve is set in the north-eastern corner of the Okavango Delta and has stunning varied scenery. I cant remember in any of my previous safaris ever seeing this amount of wildlife in such a short amount of time. As usual there was the big five: elephant, rhino, buffalo, leopard and hippos. But we also had the privilege of seeing the unique sitatunga antelope.

Game for a little drive
We had a game drive every morning and evening on the back of an open 4x4 Land Rover. On one of our night drives we struck gold! A pride of lions were hunting and their victim was a feisty zebra. Although most people see this as horrible and cruel, the fact remains that it is still amazing to see nature in action. It took two lionesses to pin the zebra to the ground for what seemed like seconds to happen. The power lions possess is exhilarating. With panache they won a most difficult battle. I did feel sadness for the zebra, but this is the circle of life, even though its so cruel.

I dont think Ill ever grow tired of being so up-close and personal with Africas wildlife. Ive been privileged enough to have gone on a couple of safaris, but this being my first safari in Botswana I couldnt really understand why I hadnt travelled there previously.

Heading back to camp
After our game drive we headed back to camp. The guides set up a campfire and Michelle and I soon joined the rest of tourists to around the fire. Discussions involved the days sight-seeing and mainly about the lions hunting tactics. I think some of the tourists would take a long time to get over the initial shock of seeing something like that, for most of them found the experience simply horrible. The only thing everybody could agree on was how beautiful Botswana and specifically the Moremi Wildlife Reserve were.

After dinner and a relaxing nightcap, everybody set off to their tents with our armed guards, to what would be our last night of our safari. I think this trip was more than what Michelle and I could have hoped for and definitely set our expectations higher for our next wildlife adventure.

Author Bio:
Whether you seek five star accommodations or a real wildlife camping experience, Giltedge offers a variety of holiday getaways including lavish safaris to Botswana.

Eureka! Copper Canyon 10 Five- to Six-Person 10- by 10-Foot Family Tent

2008-05-06T16:15:00.001-07:00

Eureka! Copper Canyon 10x10' Cabin Tent sleeps 6 campers, now PRICED LESS! This 6-person, 3-season Tent has straight walls to offer more headroom and room to push cots / gear closer to the walls. You save BIG here... and buy this tent before July 31, 2007 and get a BONUS mail-in Eureka! coupon for a 30 degree F Rectangular Sleeping Bag (a $35.00 value)! Premium shelter: 6-pole steel / fiberglass frame with easy ring / pin system; Large D-style zippered door; 4-way ventilation; 750 StormShield polyester fly has brims over windows, plus pockets that store guyouts when not in use; 4 large zip windows; Waterproof bathtub-style floor; Hanging gear loft; 7' center height. Weighs 23 lbs., 6 ozs. Get in on this camping bargain right now! Eureka! Copper Canyon 10x10' Cabin Tent with Eureka! Mail-in Bonus Sleeping Bag
Customer Review: Awesome tent for its intended purpose.
This tent is easy to assemble, has quality components and won't break your bank. This is not a backpacking tent. It is heavy and comes in a large/roomy bag. The tent's features are adequate. We use it in the Adirondack mountains where it is woodsy and remote. We enjoy sleeping on a cot instead of the ground and this is the perfect tent for that. We put silicon on it and seam sealer on the seams (we do with all our tents). we are dry and warm. It is large enough for 4 or so, but if you're cot campers, stick with three people and your gear, you'll be more comfortable. Some comments suggest a flimsy tent...they did something wrong. Yes, the semi-straight walls will catch the wind, so be thoughtful. This tent is perfect for the three season tenter. Use caution when using a cot on soft ground. You could damage the floor. Happy camping!
Customer Review: Great tent!
This tent exceeded every expectation I had. I was skeptical of only having a stake at each corner, but when properly set up the tent is extremely stable. The steel and fiberglass poles are all heavy duty and the set up is easy with 2 people (only took 10-15 min. without instructions). The rainfly is easily assembled and appears to cover all the mesh. It did not rain on our trip. The nylon seems to be of good quality and the stitching is heavy duty and taped. The interior is very efficient thanks to the near vertical walls. I would expect to be comfortable with up to 4 people (we were only 2). We really liked the all mesh roof which is great for stargazing and ventilation. We also liked the large mesh windows that can be zipped for privacy. There are large windows on each wall. Everyone else in our group seemed to admire this tent and a few expressed interest in getting one. The weather was dry and windy the first day. We had gusts up to about 30 mph. and the tent never budged. I suspect the rainfly had a lot to do for the stability as the guy wires anchor close to the support poles. Overall I love this tent and find it hard to believe that anyone would dislike it. This tent is not designed to handle extreme wind, but anyone with common sense knows you shouldn't use a cabin tent if you expect violent weather. Tips: 1)Always place a waterproof tarp under your tent. 2)The stakes that come with this tent are subpar. Get some inexpensive steel stakes.

Some of the best camping supplies UK has to offer are contained in the mega-stores we have covered for you here: these places are important to the avid camper and the beginner as well as the right camping gear makes an outdoor holiday enjoyable, safe and comfortable besides allowing you maximum relaxation.

Knowing where to get the best deals in camping supplies UK - and there are plenty of good stockists there too - is half the battle won as far as being prepared for a fantastic vacation in the great outdoors is concerned.

Most of the camping supplies UK retailers we have covered here stock the best camping equipment, right from cooking supplements to outdoor clothes, larger gear such as tents; some camping supplies UK retailers also offer the gloss of a inter-active web site where you can take a virtual tour of the store and make an easy, online purchase of whatever you require - all with the personalized attention of a sales-person!

1) Among the first names in camping supplies UK stores is Mountain Warehouse, which is well-known for its affordable price tags and offers heavily discounted camping supplies that are worth every penny invested to buy them. Mountain Warehouse is a great place to look for reasonable camping supplies UK-based campers may need, such as back-packs, lanterns, camping cookware and tents, lanterns, cookware besides sundry other support equipment. They also stock outdoor clothing supplies UK campers: men, women and children may need in terms of budget or new-camper requirements!

2) Equally good are the products and camping supplies UK-based store, Cotswold Outdoor Limited, has on offer: a veritable mind-boggling range of fun-stuff every kid-at-heart (or age-wise too) can use; from kites to outdoor games and other accessories to make camping a fun-trip! Especially suited to meeting family camping needs, this store has a wide range of basic camping supplies UK campers need besides allowing for other toys and goodies that build up an outdoor vacation's scope for kids and adults alike!

3) Outdoor Megastore is also a smart choice for those heading for the outdoors for a fun-filled vacation that is memorable for the right reasons; with a wide variety of camping supplies UK shoppers may need, this one-of-a-kind (biggest in its category too) store stocks products from diverse manufacturers and thus, has a varied product line. This is the reason why the Outdoor Megastore is counted among the best places for getting your camping supplies UK-bound tourists or citizens may be keen on.

All types of camping enthusiasts, be it hikers, those keen on extreme outdoor sporting activities or even the family vacationers, are in for a treat when visiting any of the above camping supplies UK stores.

Abhishek is a Camping freak! Visit his website http://www.Camping-Guru.com and download his FREE Camping Report "Camping With The Family: How To Have A Safe, Fun, And Inexpensive Vacation" and learn some amazing Camping tips and tricks for FREE. Learn how to have the perfect vacation on a shoe-string budget. But hurry, only limited Free copies available!

http://www.Camping-Guru.com

Coleman Kids LED Flashlight with Light Show

2008-05-06T06:08:00.000-07:00

Coleman Kids LED Flashlight/Nightlight uses the latest flashlight technology. LED lights put out more light and use less power than traditional incandescent bulbs. This not only gives you better battery life but also extends the LED bulb life way beyond that of a traditional bulb.

More than a flashlight, this device also projects dazzling light patterns onto a tent or bedroom wall.

But more than just a handy flashlight, it also includes five colored LED lights on the shaft, which can project eight dazzling light patterns onto your tent wall or bedroom wall. Or you can choose to turn on just an amber-colored LED for a portable nightlight. The strong ABS plastic housing protects against rugged play, and it includes finger grips along the side that are sized to fit kids' hands. It also includes an adjustable lanyard for hanging in your tent or around your neck.

The flashlight operates over 3 hours on 2 AA batteries (included), while the nightlight can provide comforting illumination for several nights. Don't lose your Starlight with the included adjustable lanyard. Recommended for ages 6 and up.

About Coleman
The Coleman Company has been creating and innovating products for recreational outdoor use since W.C. Coleman started selling gasoline-powered lanterns in 1900. Inventor of the hugely popular fold-up camp stove, Coleman developed a plastic liner for his galvanized steel coolers in 1957--the birth of the modern cooler--and the company has been improving their utility and design ever since. The array of products that bear the Coleman name now includes just about everything you might need to work or play outdoors, from tents and sleeping bags to boats, backpacks, and furniture.

Customer Review: an inexpensive, sturdy flashlight
We've had this flashlight for two summers now and taken it on multiple camping trips. It's held up GREAT with two very young kids. We've had other brands that break easily, but this one hasn't.
Customer Review: Great, but on the 3rd one!
It seems like a good flashlight, but it keeps breaking. The company did replace the broken ones, but I'm tired of asking and waiting for the new ones to arrive. We'll be getting a different one.

As it turned out, the rumor about washing dishes all week as punishment for being late was not true, and soon we found ourselves in Ugwam Mess Hall, which was certainly an appropriate name. The camaraderie of a dining room full of enthusiastic Scouts, the coziness of the Lodge with its huge rock fireplace crackling cheerily, and the comfort that came from eating our first (and best) meal of the week quickly erased our memories of the bus trip and our apprehension about the rest of the week.

Boy, were we ever wrong.

The insistent bleating of a bugle burst rudely into our little 4-Scout tent at 6:30 sharp, abruptly ending our first cozy nights slumber. Little did we know that this was to be the only uneventful night of the week. Rock, our ex-con tent leader, snorted and mumbled that he was going to sleep in. We let him be and headed for breakfast. We knew, from stern announcements the evening before, that during breakfast each tent would be checked for neatness, cleanliness, and of course, beds made up in the prescribed Scout manner. We giggled about how Rock was about to get it.

We underestimated Rock.

After breakfast we all lined up for personal inspection of our uniforms, hair, teeth, and other Scout parts. Much to our surprise, Rock was there, looking spiffy in his brand-new Scout outfit. The Scoutmaster team in charge of inspecting tents announced that all tents were approved, except Teepee #34, and would Scout Shinn please come forward.

Scout Shinn, why wasnt your bed made? the stern-looking Scoutmaster inquired.

It was hones it was! I made it before breakfast honest! I pleaded in wide-eyed innocence.

Then why does it look like you just got out of it? No effort at all was made to straighten it out.

But I did! Maybe it was. I suddenly remembered Rock sleeping in, and started to explain. But Rock was in the line of Scouts right behind me, and then too, I remembered him switching beds with me the night before. My stomach sank.

Scout Shinn, are you a Boy Scout? questioned the gruff Scoutmaster. Sounded like a stupid question to be asking a Scout, but I thought I had better answer it.

Yes, sir.

Well, Scout Shinn, have you ever heard that Scouts are neat, orderly, and follow directions?

Yes sir, sir!

And did you follow our directions to make up your bed and keep your tent orderly?

Well, I..

One demerit. Report to Scoutmaster Seaverson in the kitchen immediately. And see that it doesnt happen again. Who else is in Teepee #34?

Rock raised his hand righteously.

Scout Riggotoni, would you be responsible for Test #34, and make sure that Scout Shinn does his duty?

Yes sir! beamed Rock.

My stomach dropped a notch further. Now he was not only the ad hoc boss, he was the authorized boss.

The thing I remember most about washing dishes that first morning was the hot water. It was HOT, and I was miserable. I was missing the first morning of activities, and I knew that tomorrow morning I would be a day behind everyone else.

At lunchtime Scout Riggotoni put his arm around me and said Its OK, Shinn. Its your first year at camp. We all have to learn. That was sweet of him, I thought, and the head Scoutmaster apparently thought so too, as later I saw him pat Rock on the back in an apparent gesture of praise for helping a young, wayward Scout such as I.

The bathroom at Camp Ugwam at least the only one we were allowed to use was a long outhouse with perhaps 20 holes in a long bench, with no dividers between each station. I took one long stare in the doorway, saw some older boys gathered in a group at the other end looking at something and laughing loudly, and I decided I could wait until I got home.

It was a long week.

After lunch we had marching drills, and we marched left and we marched right and we marched through the trees and most everywhere. This was probably the easiest part of camp for me, since I had joined the schools beginner band the year before as a trombone player, and already knew my left foot from my right, and what about face meant. Some of the other Scouts apparently didnt however, as there were several head-on collisions before the drill was over.

After drill we were excused for the afternoon to pursue whatever recreation we desired. I desired to go home, and wondered how far it was over the hill and back down to Soda Springs. I figured I could use the phone there, and had visions of my Dad & Mom and big brother picking me up and calling me Duane instead of Scout Shinn. But the first evenings warnings about the bears in the mountains outside the camp sufficiently dissuaded me from my vision.

Willie wanted to go swimming, and I thought that sounded good too. We pulled on our trunks, headed for the lake that was situated directly behind the lodge, and took a headlong leap of faith into the chilling waters of Lake Ugwam. As I hit the water I recalled that I sometimes got leg cramps at night in bed, and sure enough, in the rarified atmosphere of 6000 feet and the ice water of Lake Ugwam, my hamstrings in both legs cramped up like the Scout-approved knot I always wished I could tie. If youve ever had the glorious experience of having both hamstrings cramp at once, you will appreciate the fact that I was very fortunate indeed to make it to shore at all, even thought it was just a few feet away. That ended my swimming for the week, and the next five afternoons were spent trying to get some sleep, since the cramps, having been started by the 33 degree water, persisted each night thereafter, probably because of the elevation working on the freshly cramped muscles.

In any case, I knew I was not cut out to be a Scout, and daydreamed a great deal about low-elevation baseball fields, beds with firm mattresses, and bathrooms with doors on them. Willie, meanwhile, kept busy exchanging baseball data with every fan he could unearth, which included the head cook, a widow whose husband had once played 3rd base for the Portland Beavers of the old Pacific Coast League. That got Willie not only some fascinating baseball stores of the old days, but also a tasty preview of the desserts being prepared for the evening meals, since the widow lady was thrilled that someone was interested enough to listen to her baseball stories about her husbands career. Willies curiosity was only exceeded by his energy level, and many a night when I was painfully trying to get my legs straightened out, I would hear this whack crack swoosh whack sound outside Teepee #34. It was a moonlighted week on nights, and Willie got in some extra batting practice by throwing rocks up and hitting them with his bat. Why some Scoutmaster didnt put an end to it, Ill never understand, but no one ever said anything about it. Maybe the other campers and counselors thought it was a bear breaking tree limbs, or the ghost of some Indian warrior haunting the battleground where he had died a hundred years ago. Perhaps it added to the mystery of camp. As my cramps gradually subsided, I fell asleep wondering.

The last night of camp was the climax of our Scout training, when all of us were required to go on the mysterious Midnight Manhood March through the forest. Just the sound of it gave me the shivers, and from the talk around camp, most everyone except the very oldest Scouts felt the same. The Scout leaders had done their very best all week to build up this event in our minds, and to make it as scary sounding as possible. Im sure their motives were excellent, but in the minds of imaginative 9 year olds the images of dark trails at midnight and departed spirits of Indian warriors and bears and mountain lions and getting lost forever in the high Sierras was enough to make us yearn for the security of home and civilization. But that dreaded night was fast approaching, and the only thing that kept me going was the knowledge that if I survived the night, the dawn would bring the bus and the return trip to the comfort and warmth and familiarity of home, with all it represented like Moms cooking, the absence of Scout Riggotoni, and a bathroom with a door.

After dinner Friday evening we were instructed to retire to our tents, lie motionless on our beds, and prepare mentally & spiritually for the great test of endurance and bravery and resourcefulness that lay immediately ahead. None of us had the slightest idea that that meant to prepare mentally & spiritually so we lay on our beds and scared ourselves silly with thoughts of the worst that might shortly come to pass. I remember praying Dear God, I know I havent been too good in the past, but if you will get me through this night, I promise to practice my piano lesson 30 minutes every day. Please, God?

The dreaded event started with a campfire at 10PM. It began innocently enough, with singing and skits and a marshmallow roast. Then came story time, when each Scoutmaster outdid the other at relating stories of Indian lore, Scouts lost forever in the woods, and ghosts of Indian warriors who even at this very moment stalk the hills above Camp Ugwam, searching for a Scout who doesnt follow orders and wanders off the appointed trail. Eyeballs grew noticeably larger, and the circle of Scouts moved imperceptibly closer in toward the campfire, and away from the darkness behind.

The last Scoutmaster was the best storyteller of all (they had apparently saved the best for the last), and he told an absolutely terrifying tale of the Indian warrior ghost who had ALREADY possessed the body of one of us Scouts around the fire. Without moving our heads in the slightest, we eyed each other suspiciously for any tell-tail sign that the fearsome Indian warrior might inhabit the body of the Scout next to us. As the story went on with tales of raids and scalping, I thought of my Dad, who was stone bald, and wondered briefly if what I had always been told was true that he had a high fever as a teenager and lost his hair then or whether possibly he had attended a Scout camp when he was nine in Missouri, and the 200 year old warrior Spirit had found him wandering slightly from the trail, and separated him from his hair.

I slowly raised my left hand to feel if my hair was still intact, and was please to find that it was still there standing on end in stark terror.

As the storyteller was working the story to a climax in a barely-audible whisper, and every Scout eye and every Scout ear was glued on him in terrified attention, the shrill voice of the head Scoutmaster broke into the silence with Quick, Scouts! Follow me! The final test of your courage has begun. We must begin our Midnight Survival Test and move along the Ugwam Trail quickly, as we have just received word that the dreaded Warrior Spirit is on the war path, and is close behind us!

Approximately 76 million Scout goose bumps instantly formed a tight line behind the Scoutmaster, with the end of the line battling for a spot further up in the line. The survival of the fittest was no doubt at work, and the smallest nine year olds soon found themselves at the end of the line, with the smallest of the small at the very end.

Me.

I repeated my prayer rapidly, desperately, this time raising the ante. Make that an hour, Lord. I really will practice my piano lesson a solid hour every day if you just get me through this. The darkness behind me was absolutely terrifying, and once I had gotten up the courage to look back, and saw the blackness behind that held every fear I had ever known, I vowed to never look back again, and kept my vow. I even raised my practice-time prayer-promise bargaining chip to an hour and a half, and threw in the offer to stop picking my nose as a sweetener.

The trail wound through the pines and firs, around huge boulders, under fallen logs, past the lake which we could barely make out in the light of the quarter-moon, and who knows where. The only lights were our little beams of Scout-issue flashlights each Scout carried. The outlines of the trees and branches and boulders and crags in the darkness conjured up images of all the stories we had just heard, and dug up a few more out of the recesses of our memories. My imagination added to the terror, as I visualized the movie I had seen the week before Frankenstein Meets Dracula. No headless horseman could have added to my fear. It was already total.

From out of the darkness behind me came a silent hand which wrapped itself around my mouth, keeping my screams of terror private, and the next thing I knew I was on the ground with my mouth covered and three dark figures holding me down. Surprisingly, my fear subsided a bit, as I suppose it does when one moves from danger on to death. I supposed the figures huddled over me to be the Spirits of Indian Warriors about to take my scalp, but instead they took my pants. The largest of the three threatened me not to tell the Scoutmaster, or I was a dead Scout. Since I thought I was a dead Scout anyway, that really was a welcome announcement of a second chance at life. Perhaps I would survive after all. Perhaps my prayers ad been heard. Practicing the piano sounded utterly fantastic by contrast to my present state.

The three nightriders disappeared back into the darkness from whence they had come, and I sprinted back to the end of the line, which fortunately I could still see in the distance because of the flashlights each Scoot carried. I was so glad to be back that even though I was still at the end of the line and pantless, I actually kind of enjoyed the rest of the trek like a person back from the dead might enjoy seeing the top half of the cemetery which was relatively eventless compared to my recent descent into Hell and back.

As we marched back into camp, we lined up in front of the lodge for inspection under the glow of the outdoor lamps, which stood on either side of the lodge door. We stood at attention 299 Scouts in full dress, and one standing in his underwear.

Scout Shinn, step forward.

Yes sir.

Scout Shinn, where in the world are your pants?

I dont know, sir.

You dont know where your pants are?

No sir.

Snickers roll through the line of Scouts at attention.

Why dont you know where your pants are?

Well, sir, I had them on when I started the Midnight Manhood March.

More giggles from behind me.

You had them on when you started the Midnight Manhood March, but you dont have them on now. Did you donate them to a cold bear, perhaps?

Gales of laughter from behind me.

No sir.

Then perhaps they were taken by the Spirit of the dead Indian warrior?

Yes sir, I suppose so.

Scouts now on the ground, holding their sides. Full grown Scoutmasters doubled over in hysterics.

Apparently the Head Scoutmaster thought that might be a good place to leave the issue, perhaps to instill fear into next years campers by a rumor that the Spirit of the dead Indian warrior not only scalps selected Scouts, but now also is into de-panting Scouts who wander from the trail. In any case, when he had regained his own composure and the volume of laughter had died down a bit, he dismissed the group, instructing them to go straight to their Teepees. I was extremely grateful for that, and I was the very first to go.

I was frozen by then, of course, having been without pants for the past half-hour or so, so when I got into our tent I immediately opened the suitcase Mom had so thoughtfully packed for me, put on two pair of pants, three shirts, a sweater, and a coat. Over what was left of my Scout uniform.

I crept into bed that way, and fell asleep praying Lord, if you will somehow get me on the bus tomorrow morning without anyone seeing me, I promise to practice an hour and forty-five minutes a day. I really mean it, God, and if you could somehow make me invisible on the bus so the kids wont laugh at me, I will practice two hours a day, and even on weekends. And if

Update: You will be relieved to know that Scout Shinn indeed did survive, and lived to keep his promise, more or less. He now teaches piano at PlayPiano.com in Medford, Oregon. Willie McTavish works for the San Francisco Giants in the PR department. Scout Riggotoni is a respected trustee and block leader at Folsom State Prison in Folsom, California.

Duane Shinn is the author of over 500 music books and music educational materials such as DVD's, CD's, musical games for kids, chord charts, musical software, and piano lesson instructional courses for adults. His book-CD-DVD course titled "How To Play Chord Piano In Ten Days!" has sold over 100,000 copies around the world. He holds advanced degrees from Southern Oregon University and was the founder of Piano University in Southern Oregon. He is the author of the popular free 101-week online e-mail newsletter titled "Amazing Secrets Of Exciting Piano Chords & Sizzling Chord Progressions" with over 70,000 current subscribers.

Eureka Solo Spitfire Tent

2008-05-05T18:53:00.001-07:00

With 3'4" of center height, this ultra-lightweight, 3 season, solo tent features ample headroom and easy side entry! Set up is fast and easy with post & grommet corner attachments and clips to attach the tent body to the frame; 2 stakes are required to secure the tent body. A removable fly detaches to reveal sizable mesh areas in the tent body for air flow. An inside storage pocket holds essentials 2-hoop solo tent. 9mm DAC Featherlite 7000 series aluminum frame. Four storm guy outs on fly. Poke-out vent in fly with zippered access in the mesh roof cloth. Capacity:1 Doors: 1 Windows: Full panel mesh. Minimum weight: 2 lbs. 12 oz. Floor (sq.ft.): 18.2, Vestibule: 4.4 Dimensions: 9 ft. x 3 ft. 6 in. Interior height: 3 ft. 4 in. Number of poles: 2 Packed size: 5.5 in. x 22 in. Floor material: 70D Taffeta nylon. Fly material: 75D Polyester. Roof material: 40D No-see-um netting. Frame: 9mm DAC Featherlite 7000 series aluminum.
Customer Review: Excellent backpacking tent
On any backpacking trip, weight and shelter are huge considerations. This tent delivers with an ultra-lightweight package while still providing ample room. The tent is easy to setup, taking only a few mins without any strain. It folds down easily and comes with its own stuff sack. The tent is not freestanding, however that was not a concern in my case. The rainfly provides sufficient coverage to keep mositure out, and the ability to open the vent from inside the tent is a great feature. I am about 5' 7", and was able to comfortably sit up and manuver around in the tent, not to mention streatch out fully without being pushed up against the walls. I only docked the tent a star because the vestibule area is so small; a bigger area would have been great, but it would not stop me from buying this tent again.
Customer Review: Quick and comfortable
I have spent my first weekend in my tent. The tent is easy and quick to set up. Even my somewhat skeptical camping companions were impressed with how fast the tent could be set up. I did have to do some in the field, or rather, in the tent, trimming of my foam sleeping pad because it was to wide. But a couple minutes of cutting with a sharp knife quickly remedied the situation. If you are six feet tall and you are thinking that the vestibule will give you room for your backpack, I think you will be disapppointed. There is space to put your boots at the bottom of the tent and a little space above your head (a triangle shaped area with about one foot long). The rain fly can be easily asjusted so that all or part of the tent is covered. If you leave it open on the door side of the tent, it makes for interesting viewing of racoons as they go about raiding your campsite at Cumberland Island National Park. I am very pleased with the tent and I think it is an excellent value for the price.

Barnegat Light, NJ is the home to "Old Barney" a historic lighthouse located at the northern tip of Long Beach Island. Long Beach Island, or "LBI" as the vacationing folks like to say, is a narrow island nearly twenty miles long and six miles at sea off the coast of Ocean County, NJ.

The lighthouse is a destination in and of itself, if lighthouses are something that you like. Like all lighthouses, this one has distinctive markings: the top half is red and the bottom half is white. Built in 1859, the current lighthouse is the second one for that site. The original, constructed in 1824, was in disrepair and sorely in need of being replaced. Thus, the present lighthouse -- fondly called Old Barney -- was constructed.

Barnegat Light is the second tallest lighthouse in the US. It served those at sea and on land with distinguishment until its light was extinguished forever in 1965, made obsolete by electronic navigation. In the late 1980s the lighthouse was shut down for three years for much needed repairs, but then reopened to visitors. Old Barney remains a popular visitor destination and is now a state park. Nearby attractions include the beaches, fishing, historic homes, and neighboring communities on the island. LBI is easily accessible to Philadephia and New York City and is a favorite destination for those who travel to the Jersey Shore.

Matt is a fan of lighthouses and enjoys the history associated with the sea. His area of work is more upward as he manages business aviation websites including the Corporate Flight Attendant Community at http://www.corporateflyer.net and the Aviation Employment Board at http://www.aviationemploymentboard.net.

Bebabean Beba Bean Pee-Pee Peepee Teepees Five Black Rock n Roll Teepees & Laundry Bag

2008-05-04T09:00:00.000-07:00

The Pee-pee Teepee Black Rock n Roll with Laundry Bag Changing a baby girl is not all glitz and glory. Changing a baby boy is an even bigger horror story. You hold the feet with one hand and change the diaper with the other, the whole time praying "please don't pee on your mother". This cone-shaped pee-pee teepee cloth product makes diaper changes dry and easy! The ultimate diapering accessories for boys! The perfect addition to any baby shower gift Each Package comes with 5 Pee-Pee Teepees in Laundry Bag 100% Cotton. Machine Wash and Dry The Pee-Pee Teepee is Made in Canada

Imagine a 5-day guided hiking trip through one of the most biologically diverse mountain ranges in the United States. This multi-day trail hike through the Rogue River-Siskiyou mountain range is so unique that it is scheduled just once in May of 2008. While on the 40-mile trail trek, hikers will literally "walk through" incredibly diverse ecosystems, significant historic sites, and view myriad wildlife.

Scientists have described the Rogue River-Siskiyou wilderness range as one of the most plant diverse eco-systems in the United States-rivaled only by the Great Smokey Mountains. The old and complex geology, the global position and transverse orientation of the Siskiyou Mountain Range, which connects the Northwest's Cascade and Coast Ranges, are responsible for creating this incredible eco-system.

Guided by enthusiastic hiker and Siskiyou trail historian, Jim Jackson, the 5-day, inn-to-inn hiking trip is a unique blend of exercise, biology, history, and, yes, comfort. Hikers leave heavy backpacks with the support rafts that shadow them on the Rogue River below. No tents necessary on this trip. Each night, with the exception of the first hiking night, hikers are welcomed into rustic lodges that provide private cabins, hot showers, and soft beds with fresh linens. Basically, all a hiker on this trail adventure needs is a daypack to carry a water bottle, camera, and perhaps an extra pair of comfy socks.

Jackson was the primary trail guide and organizer for the Sierra Club's Rogue River-Siskiyou wilderness hiking trips for over 10 years. He worked in tandem with Whitewater Warehouse, an outfitter on the Rogue River to stage these incredible hikes. It was through this decade-long experience of running the hiking trips that Jackson's desire to organize his "dream hiking trip" took shape. Planned for early May of 2008, the 5-day lodge-to-lodge hiking adventure meanders through the ecologically rich Rogue River-Siskiyou wilderness.

"This hiking experience is like no other...and I have hiked all over the world," says Jackson. "You walk through all the glories of nature on the Siskiyou trail. The diverse eco-systems are just incredible. Over the 40+ miles, hikers see rocky, dry areas, rainforests that are home to some of the most sensitive plants in the world, eye-popping fields of wildflowers and fragrant wild azaleas lining the riverbanks.

"History is everywhere on this hike. Hikers have a chance to look in on author Zane Grey's Rogue River cabin, view a gold mine near Tyee rapids on the Rogue River where 300 Chinese workers once took one million dollars in gold dust, and discover the where battles for "the territory" were fought between the white man and the Rogue River Indians."

Jackson begins his dream hike with a first evening's stay at Morrison's Lodge. "I think it is a must to stay at Morrison's Lodge the night before the actual trip begins. Gives all the hikers a chance to get to know one another and ask questions about the upcoming hike. The Lodge at Morrison's is not far from the trailhead. The meals are marvelous and served outside on a deck with an expansive view of the river. A serene and relaxing experience to start this incredible adventure."

The actual five-day hike begins at the trailhead of the wild and scenic section of southern Oregon's Rogue River known as Graves Creek. Named after the grave of Martha Leland Crowley, the daughter of a pioneer couple, Martha was buried under an oak tree near the creek in 1846. The first five miles of the trail are somewhat rocky so hikers need to have sturdy hiking shoes/boots. The rocky layers are part of the Rogue-Siskiyou formation. They are a result of lava flows and rocks formed by ancient volcanoes, which were active 140 million years ago. High temperatures and pressure have altered and folded these rocks into nearly a vertical position. Signs of this folding can be seen on the steep canyon walls carved out by the powerful forces of the Rogue River over a period of nearly a million years.

Day one takes hikers 11 miles down the trail. The trail is in very good condition in this first section-three or four feet wide-so hikers feel at ease even though the trail proceeds right along a ledge carved out of the cliff. Views of the river here are excellent. On this section of the trail there are very few trees so it can get extremely hot in July and August-which is why May is such a great time to hike the trail. Whiskey Creek with its historic cabin is the perfect place to take a lunch break. Hikers leisurely stroll across the crystal-clear creek by way of a footbridge and explore the historic cabin while a spectacular riverside lunch is being prepared.

The trail gets narrower in the afternoon and with more afternoon heat. Hikers are happy to be greeted by Whitewater Warehouse's upscale camping accommodations (Black Bar Lodge is closed many evenings in May). An incredible riverside dinner of bourbon-basted Oregon salmon, country biscuits, homemade raspberry jam, and organic green salads await hikers. Cots, sleeping bags, pads, tents are provided. Wine and beer, in moderation, are served with dinner.

The next morning hikers arise to a country breakfast served overlooking the famous Rogue River Horseshoe Bend rapids. The hike to Marial Lodge is a beautiful 13-mile hike. The trail in this section is in fine condition, again in sparse forest, and has fewer up and down sections than the previous stretch. The scenes are as beautiful as the day before, with even more wild flowers, including many "hen and chickens" succulents and gold/brown wild iris. Lunch is near Zane Gray's cabin giving hikers an opportunity to experience history firsthand. The Rogue River Ranch museum is also located on this stretch of the hike-living history is everywhere. Upon arrival at the first riverside lodge, Marial, the friendly caretakers, Pat and Lori Cameron, greet hikers. Private cabins with bathrooms/showers and comfy twin beds await hikers. The Rogue River lodges date back to an era when fly-fishing on the Rogue was en vogue. So the atmosphere is rustic but clean and the food is outstanding.

On morning three, hikers enjoy a leisurely breakfast and head out about 1 p.m. for Paradise Lodge. This is a shortest hiking day-just 5 miles. Once at Paradise, the afternoon can be filled with short hikes around the area (led by Jackson) or spent relaxing at the Lodge. Again, a wonderful dinner and breakfast await hikers with private lodging accommodations. Paradise Lodge has no road access so all supplies are brought in by boat. Even guests must arrive by boat, hike in, or land their airplane there. Paradise has its own grassy field used as an airport, complete with runway markers and a windsock.

Since yesterday was a short hike day, hikers don't tend to be so hungry for breakfast on this morning. Still, it is hard to resist the homemade bread, ham and egg country breakfast buffet. Moving down the trail on the fourth day hikers end up at Clayhill Lodge...a hike day of about 7 miles. This day, below the hiking trail, hikers have bird's eye views of Huggins Canyon and Brushy Bar rapids on the famous Rogue River. Private cabins, snacks, dinner and breakfast are offered at Clayhill. Clayhill Lodge was featured in 2006 on Public Broadcast System (PBS) as an "Adventure Lodge of North America." The series still runs periodically on PBS.

Day five begins as hikers linger over an excellent breakfast and lots of coffee. This section of the trail can have rock slides and downed winter trees. Wear long pants because poison oak can be prevalent here. The canyon is not so narrow here and hikers are quite often away from a view of the river; separated from it by a marshy area. The trail eventually joins a road, paved this time, and it is an approximate 7 miles hike to the take-out. Hikers arrive around 1:30 p.m. and eat a fabulous riverside lunch served by WWW guides. Vans take weary but happy hikers back over the mountain to waiting vehicles parked at Morrison's Lodge.

Joy Henkle has spent two decades as an outdoor writer for magazines, newsletters, websites, and more recently, blogs. Over much of the last decade, her travel expertise has been focused on Oregon's unique and diverse Rogue River region. Visit her at Whitewater Rafting Blog or Whitewater Warehouse

Eureka! Copper Canyon 10 Five- to Six-Person 10- by 10-Foot Family Tent

2008-05-04T07:27:00.000-07:00

Tent camping really gets you back to the basics. Besides the fact that it is probably one of the cheapest family outings you will ever undertake, the things you will see and do are only measured by where you go and your imagination when you get there. And you don't even need experience or a lot of imagination to get started. Here's an example. Take a trip to Yosemite for example; this is a beautiful national park with a wonderful valley where you can go to have the camping trip of a lifetime. Once you get there you can get a park map that tells you all the cool places to see and things to do. Once you have found your campsite and set up now it's time to have some fun. You could spend two weeks there and not see everything, which is why it is a great place to come back to. Just look around and see hiking trails everywhere, rocks to climb,lakes and streams to see, gigantic trees, and of course, wildlife! This is just one example and the list of places to go is endless and never to far from home.

Now let's talk about some very basic gear that you will need to get started. And remember we said that tent camping is one of the least expensive vacations you will ever take. This is true because once you have purchased your gear, all you will need to go on future trips is food and a place to go! There are a lot of places you can go that it won't even cost you anything for the campsite, such as the mountains or deserts. A lot of people today prefer to camp where there are very few people.

The first thing you will need is your camping tent. Tents come in all shapes and sizes and colors and materials so there are a few things to consider. First you need a tent that is the right size for your family. You might want to consider whether or not your children might want to bring friends with them, they probably will! So choose a tent that has enough room for your family plus a few more. After all if extra people don't go it ever hurts to have the extra space. Choose a tent that is weatherproof and bug proof, ( with no-see-um mesh), this will keep the bugs out while you sleep.

There are a few other basic things you will need. There are a thousand different things you can buy and spend a fortune on, so let's just talk about the few essential things to get you started. After all part of the fun of camping is once you start going you can all decide that it would be nice to have this or that for your next trip. So the things you need to get you going are first you need your tent. Then you need to pick out some good sleeping bags. Pick some that are rated for warmth and preferably waterproof on the outside. If you do this you will probably never have to replace them. Next you need some camping chairs. You could go with the folding kind or the kind that fold up into a bag, they pack the best. I tend to pick the most comfortable one and worry about how much room it takes up later. Next you need a good 5 day cooler. You just put fresh ice in it every couple days and your food will be fine. Next you will need a small propane stove. These are inexpensive and will cook anything. You will also want to get a small barbeque that uses charcoal for your dinners. With a few utensils and paper plates you are set to cook your stakes, burgers, or hot dogs. You can cook corn or beans simply by opening the can and removing the rapper and setting them on the grill. I've been doing that for years! Don't forget to pack a hand can opener!

So let's do a short list. You'll need: Tent, sleeping bags, chairs, cooler, stove, barbeque, and a few basic utensils. Yes that is a short list, but that's really all that is necessary. You can add things later if you want to!

Camping give the family a sense of accomplishment and shows kids what's really important in life like nature and wildlife. It's as close to nature you can get. It gives the whole family a sense of togetherness and teamwork that is sometimes hard to do in the fast paced life we live. I hope this will be helpful in your adventures to come!

Sincerely,
Michael P. Schwartz
www.Campyearround.com

Michael Schwartz, Owner, for camping tents and camping equipment.

Coleman Kids LED Flashlight with Light Show

2008-05-03T09:36:00.000-07:00

It's a flashlight nightlight or a Starlight show

Projects 8 magical light patterns onto tent wall or bedroom wall

Low-powered amber LED Nightlight provides light for several nights

Flashlight opeartes over 3 hours on 2AA batteries (included)

Adjustable lanyard so you can keep track of it

Recommended for ages 6 and up
Customer Review: an inexpensive, sturdy flashlight
We've had this flashlight for two summers now and taken it on multiple camping trips. It's held up GREAT with two very young kids. We've had other brands that break easily, but this one hasn't.
Customer Review: Great, but on the 3rd one!
It seems like a good flashlight, but it keeps breaking. The company did replace the broken ones, but I'm tired of asking and waiting for the new ones to arrive. We'll be getting a different one.

I myself worked for a while with an online internet company which name I wont disclose but from my time being there I was able to find out inside information that everyone should know. How does a few of these benefits sound -

50-75% on Hotel Stays
Up to 55% Discounts on Airfare
Free First Class Upgrades
Discounted Rental Cars
Half-Priced Theme Park Admission
Cruises for $35/Day
Free Show Tickets
Free Meals

This all sounds too good to be true right??? WRONG!! For one thing just a taster is that many online internet companies and also the high streets have purchased the hotel rooms and can sell them off at their own prices. So in fact sometimes you find that if you call a hotel directly and ask them without the middleman about their prices you will get a completely different price from that of an internet broker or elsewhere.

Just imagine heading off for a Caribbean cruise this year while everyone stays at home. You could usually pay around $35 a day while the people next door are paying upwards of $200 each day for the same service.

Or how about if you just make trips a lot on business or relatives are on the other side of the world all those ticket prices I'm sure will mount up, just an example how about on average your ticket is $600 well how would it being discounted to $285 dollars sound? Fantastic!!! Thats what I thought myself.

But wait I know I always hated going to the airport and having to get onto shared airport to hotel transfers it just seemed to take forever for us to reach our hotel but then again we could have rented a car but thats before I found out these very little know techniques about saving such huge discounts, Car rental now 50% off thats literally next to nothing for your entire holiday.

Plus there is voucher discounts out there as well that you can use for online holiday booking savings and much more. Please please stop paying top dollar for your holidays when you dont have to. Check out the link for more information.

Dirt Cheap Airline Tickets

Find out How to get Discount Travel

Civil War Tent Life Mouse Pad

2008-05-03T07:01:00.000-07:00

In case you are looking to research for a best summer camp for your child, you would soon figure out that the options are irresistible. Not only are there all kinds of goings-on options, but as well length of stay, price, and lots of other restrictions. Here is a fast general idea of the various types of camp and things to be considered before choosing a summer camp for your child.

This may be your child's first summer adventure camp, if that is so then you require starting by making a choice about how much he or she could manage when it comes to separation. Resident camps, well-known as overnight camps, need the child to spend nights away from resident, and many have a minimum of about 5-7 days that you need to sign in for. Resident camps are an amazing option for sovereign or older kids who desire the full understanding of camps.

Additionally, Day camps are simpler choice for parents and kid, as everyone returns home every by end of the day. Specialty camps could either be resident or day camps, but they are generally focused only on one single event, such as horse riding, soccer, or any other water sports. Specialty camps are a grand option for kids who take pleasure in a specific activity and are uncertain about getting involved in other things.

Before choosing a camp, ask yourself the following questions:

Decide on how much you are willing to pay for the camp. Day camps may cost you about $40 US dollars per day whereas resident summer camps would be double of that amount. On the other hand, specialty camps would be even more expensive, as the people working there are hypothetical to be professionals.

Next match upon the best type of camp your kid would be comfortable with. Would he enjoy sharing a week with the people that is unknown or would he want an alternative? Do you desire your child to have liberty with her schedule or do you prefer an agenda with more structure? One more important when choosing a vocational camp, ensure you confirm safety standards.

Ronvictor is a Copywriter of fashion summer camp. He written many articles in various topics such as culinary camps, jet ski camp. For more information visit: http://www.paliadventures.com. Contact him at ron.seocopywriter@gmail.com

TENT, HEADQUARTERS, LUXURY FAMILY

2008-05-02T07:44:00.000-07:00

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"Menopause is a metamorphosis, like a caterpillar becoming a butterfly. The caterpillar needs a cocoon, and so do you. One of the most important things you can do during menopause is to take time for you. Go into your cave, go into your cocoon, go into your room and shut the door."

These are words I have said, and sung, over and over. Words whose truth rings in the hearts of so many women who hear me speak. Words that prompted one (famous) female MD to throw her arms around me and exclaim "I thought I hated my patients. Now I know I just need a year off!" But words whose full meaning took some time to get through to me.

The idea of taking time off during menopause is an extension of a moontime mystery teaching: A woman benefits herself and her community if she takes a day off during her menstrual flow, to go within and tend to herself. By taking care of herself, a woman has more to give to others. But even more importantly, when she gives herself this time, she may sense the presence of her "spirit band" (angels) - those who are too faint to be noticed when one is focused on the hubbub of everyday life.

During menstruation, and during the menopausal years, say my Native teachers, the "veil between the worlds" is thin and easily parted. Our abilities and senses are heightened and we are open to guidance, inspiration, illumination - but only if we give ourselves quiet time alone, free of responsibilities.

I believe in this idea so strongly that I actually pay my apprentices to take one day off during their monthly flow. But it was exceptionally difficult for me to give myself the same time off. After all, I had to keep appointments that had been made months in advance and involved dozens to hundreds of people. I can't agree to be the keynote presenter at the National Institutes of Health conference on Women and Botanical Medicine and then tell them after I get there that I have to have the day off because I'm bleeding, can I?

So, even though I knew that my menopause would be more severe if I remained in the public eye, I again found myself unable to say "No." And for once I was sorry to be right.

The first summer of my menopause was exceptionally hot, and it seemed to trigger hot flash after hot flash. At one big conference, I was so hot they finally put me to bed on a cot in the climate-controlled (air-conditioned!) herb storage building while everyone else braved it in tents. I awoke not totally refreshed (I woke those days four and five times a night), but not melted either, and smelling decidedly fragrant.

And then there was the class that walked off and left me. It was another hot summer day. My memory of most of those insufferably hot menopausal summer days is mercifully blank - or, perhaps more to the point, welded into a recollection of one ongoing unrestrained surge of molten energy blanketing me from belly to crown. But this particular day is vivid in my mind's eye.

It was a staggeringly hot day. It was so hot that I decided after lunch to take my class of about twenty women to the river which runs through the back of my land. First, everyone had time for a little break to tend to necessities; then we were to meet at a certain place at a certain time to stroll to the river and look at plants along the way.

At the appointed hour, I showed up at the appointed place. By ones and twos, the students gathered. One asked me if I had a remedy for her headache. I asked her to get a glass of water and went into the house to get the herb she needed: skullcap. (How aptly named it is!) When I returned, in moments it seemed, no one was there except for the woman with the headache. I put ten drops of skullcap tincture in her glass of water, and asked where everyone was. "On their way to the river," she replied, much to my surprise, chagrin, and dismay. They had walked off and left me with no students to teach.

It took me some minutes to work through my feelings of abandonment, and more still to work through my sense of loss. But when I did, I could see that my students had given me the gift of the afternoon off. They somehow understood - I finally understood - that I needed time alone, time away from responsibility and leadership. And if I didn't have the sense to go into my cocoon, the Universe was willing to see to it that I was placed there by circumstance.

Ten years later, I look back and smile: remembering those sultry menopausal nights and steamy hot flash days. If I had it to do over again, I would squash my qualms about global warming and buy an air-conditioner as soon as those first strong hot flashes hit. And I would pull every string I could so that I could take as much time as possible off during my menopause metamorphosis.

Legal Disclaimer: This content is not intended to replace conventional medical treatment. Any suggestions made and all herbs listed are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease, condition or symptom. Personal directions and use should be provided by a clinical herbalist or other qualified healthcare practitioner with a specific formula for you. All material contained herein is provided for general information purposes only and should not be considered medical advice or consultation. Contact a reputable healthcare practitioner if you are in need of medical care. Exercise self-empowerment by seeking a second opinion.

Susun Weed
PO Box 64
Woodstock, NY 12498
Fax: 1-845-246-8081

Vibrant, passionate, and involved, Susun Weed has garnered an international reputation for her groundbreaking lectures, teachings, and writings on health and nutrition. She challenges conventional medical approaches with humor, insight, and her vast encyclopedic knowledge of herbal medicine. Unabashedly pro-woman, her animated and enthusiastic lectures are engaging and often profoundly provocative.

Susun is one of America's best-known authorities on herbal medicine and natural approaches to women's health. Her four best-selling books are recommended by expert herbalists and well-known physicians and are used and cherished by millions of women around the world. Learn more at http://www.susunweed.com

Sorority House Massacre 2

2008-04-29T06:42:00.000-07:00

Customer Review: Better than the first!
This sequel to Sorority House Massacre has nothing to do with the first one. There is a flashback sequence, but they for some reason flash back to Slumber Party Massacre. All these massacre movies are pretty much the same, so I guess they got confused about which movie this was a sequel to. But it doesn't matter, because this movie sure is fun! It doesn't take itself as seriously as the first and that's a good thing. Sometimes it plays it straight, but sometimes it feels like it's starting to border on being a slasher spoof as opposed to a straight slasher film. There is plenty of violence and no less than six women show off their double d's, so fans of 80's slasher flicks should definitely enjoy this.
Customer Review: My Kind of Junk Food
This is one of my all time favorite "stupid slasher movies" ... and I'm not afraid to admit that it's quite simply because I like most of the women who were selected to run around partly and completely naked as the films story unfolds ... or was it ... falls apart. Cute, curvy girls bouncing around in weakly acted horror as their scantily clad bodies are put in evermore rediculous forms of peril ... how could I resist such a mindless offering? It's pure guilty pleasure ... and I've long since gotten over the guilt. :) Those of us who occasionally (or regularly) watch this sort of drivel know it's not about quality cinema ... it's about managing our sexual and personal frustration by indulging in a bit of mindless and gratifying stupidity. It's about letting your "real world" standards go for a few hours and letting your inner monster come out to play for a while. What often disappoints me about movies like this isn't their lack of writing, acting or cinematic quality ... I've come to expect these things. What I don't enjoy are mindless slasher movies with unattractive starlets, sparse nudity and little or no attempt at even lame horror. I mean ... if you're not even going to indulge our guilty pleasures ... what's the point. Well, this movie didn't disappoint ... slippery shower scenes ... bouncing babes with very curvy bodies ... plenty of mindless and stupid and highly unlikely horror ... it was JUST the ticket. Enjoy with a greasy cheese burger, cold pizza, cold fries and a soda ...

When most of us think about going to the beach, the thought is that you head to the ocean during the warmest months of the year. The thought of cooling in the water during the scorching heat of August attracts many families to the Gulf Coast. We used to be one of those people until we discovered that fall is an ideal time to head to the Gulf Coast to relax in the sun.

We found this out by accident when we combined a work trip and a family vacation to the Gulf Coast of Florida in mid-October. We weren't sure what the weather would be like, but we knew that we would just be paying a fraction of what we normally pay for the house we usually stay in. The idea of staying just off the beach for less than $800 for an entire week was one that we could not pass up.

What we discovered when we got there was that the weather was perfect. It was in the 80s during the day and still warm enough to enjoy the Gulf waters or swim in the swimming pool. We loved that most days we were the only people at the pool and that the nearest family on the beach was about 25 yards away. The shops were all still open, but we didn't have to fight the crowds to look. There was no wait at any of the restaurants, which was a plus for a family with 2 year old twins!

Essentially, we found fall in the Gulf Coast of Florida to be the ultimate time of year to go. It was relaxing, it saved us a ton of money and we didn't have to share our space with hundreds of other tourists. The weather couldn't have been better. We now head to the Gulf Coast every fall for our family vacations, which is something we all look forward to every year.

For more information about Keywestflorida, SarasotaFlorida or AllinclusiveVacations visit our website.

Greatland® 2-Room Dome Tent - Blue/ Black

2008-04-28T08:43:00.000-07:00

Tent has drymark waterproofing system that keeps you dry! This includes a water repellent shell, sealed floor seams, and a elevated floor. Tent has 4 big D- style doors for easy entry and exit; 4 big windows, and 2 large roof mesh panels for great ventilation. The big front screened in porch allows you to enjoy sitting outside even during bad weather or a place to enjoy a hot breakfast without the disturbance of insects. THATS NOT ALL!!!! This tent comes with a gear loft and 3 big mesh pockets for easy storage inside. The floor is made of a durable ripstop and the room divider can be removed to make one huge room! The set up is easy for this tent with a 3- way hub so you will be able to set up camp with ease.
Customer Review: Great tent with a porch to boost!
This is a great tent for the money it is roomy and has a screened porch for sitting before checking in for the night. I have a family of six and we felt very comfortable in this tent. This is not a year round tent but goes through fair and semi-bad weather like a champ. The tent is sturdy and unlike the fellow who has a tent "from a few years back", we were as dry as you can get after a thunder storm that dumped a very heavy amount of rain. I am very happy with this product and glad I took the chance on it, even paying full price was a bargain compared to other I've tried. It is now nicely tucked away, but will be out again for early spring duty.
Customer Review: Absolute Junk
This is the worst tent I have ever owned. I am not new to camping in a tent. I was a boy scout as a kid and have spent many rainy nights in a tent. I received this tent as a wedding gift a few years ago, and it is very roomy...I'll give it that, but when the rain comes it leaks like crazy. Even if there is an excess amount of dew in the morning you'll get wet. I think the problem lies in how the tent poles come together at the top center of the tent. The connector piece touches the rain fly and wicks the water in. The top of the tent without the rain fly is screen mesh. So when the water wicks in it runs down the screen, pools up, and eventually falls through. I even added a seam sealer to the rain fly, and water still came through.

Do any of these things happen at your meetings?

* People arrive late
* people leave early
* someone yells BINGO in mid-meeting
* People are unprepared
* A key person is absent
* Someone asks for a pencil or pen
* People mysteriously get paged midway through and leave in droves

Before you blame others it's entirely possible the fault resides with you, the caller of the meeting. As the facilitator, leader or organizer of the meeting you are ultimately responsible for everything that does and doesn't happen in your meeting. What are you doing right? What are you doing wrong?

Allergic to Meet?

Here are 7 things to do before you hold your next meeting:

1. Ask yourself if it's really needed. Can goals be achieved by e-mail, fax, memo or conference call instead of a meeting?
2. Identify who needs to be there and who doesn't. Respect everyone's time.
3. Set the time, location, duration, agenda items and purpose (!) for the meeting.
4. Publicize it in advance to insure full attendance.
5. Call out responsibilities for the meeting in advance so all can prepare accordingly.
6. Set the environment for optimal success. Room layout, supplies, temperature, etc. all contribute to success/failure of meetings.
7. Incent attendance through food, fun or other enticements.

About Your Published Agenda:

1. Is the purpose of your meeting documented in your Agenda?
2. Do you have names next to each item to denote responsibility?
3. Are time windows associated with each item?
4. Do you make clear what is to be discussed vs. what is to be decided?

Ready, Set, Meet

Here are seven tips to follow at your meeting:

1. Start on time.
2. Don't start over when latecomers arrive, or take time to recap what they missed.
3. Set the proper tone through your opening remarks.
4. Remind people of the purpose, goals and expectations for the meeting at its outset.
5. When calling on others for their reports you may preface their remarks with your own to frame their contributions, orient listeners.
6. Keep at firm grip on the timing of your meeting. As necessary you can ask for a summary, refer items to committee, request a written report or simply table longwinded discussions as necessary.
7. End on time!

Make parliamentary procedure your friend

You don't have to be a Parliamentarian to invoke the following procedural phrases:

I (hereby) call this meeting to order .. To officially start the meeting

Let's table that .. Suspend discussion of the topic (or motion) at hand indefinitely.

Point of information .. Nice way of asking for clarification at any time.

Point of clarification .. Ask at any time when you are confused.

I call for the question .. It's time to address the previous question

Let's refer it to committee .. A way of off-loading the current discussion

Hearing no objections .. A way of moving forward to a vote or the next item

Since we're in agreement .. Another way of garnering agreement to act

We're adjourned .. Game over!

Avoid these incorrect (though commonly heard) phrases

DON'T SAY: "I want to make a motion that" - INSTEAD, Say - "I move that" or simply "I move"

DON'T SAY: "I make a motion that" - INSTEAD, Say - "I move that"

DON'T SAY: "A 2/3 Majority" - INSTEAD, Say - "A Majority" or "2/3"
(a 2/3 majority is not a majority. Since a majority is half plus one, 2/3 of THAT is less than half!)

DON'T SAY: "Our next Order of Business..." - INSTEAD, Say - "Our next Business in Order..."
"Order of Business" is your AGENDA. You're still using the same Agenda, just moving your way down its list.

DON'T SAY OR WRITE ON AGENDA: "Old Business" INSTEAD, SAY OR WRITE: "Unfinished Business"

Meet Tenderizers

Most meeting leaders equip themselves with a gavel, pointer, markers and white board or flip chart. Consider other tools of the trade such as a talking stick or fun kush-ball to toss around to the speaker who has the floor. Use name tents if everyone doesn't already know each other. It also informs people where you'd like them to sit. Consider the use of a fun ice-breaker to get everyone on the same frequency. (E-mail me for a free set of ten ice-breakers you can customize for your future meetings.)

Enjoying The Fruits of Your Labor

Remember, the surgeon general had identified an all-Meet diet as hazardous to your health. Season your meets to make them appetizing and healthy for all!

Craig Harrison's Expressions Of Excellence! helps professionals express their sales and service excellence with style. Contact him by phone at (510) 547-0664, via Excellence@craigspeaks.com or through http://www.ExpressionsOfExcellence.com.

Texsport Kendall Square Dome Tent

2008-04-28T07:22:00.000-07:00

Large enough to accommodate five, this 10-foot-square domed tent protects campers during three seasons and features a half-length four-peak rainfly. A D-style door with zippered storm flap, windows, and large roof panels let in lots of light and air and are made of fine mesh to screen out insects as small as no-see-ums. Inside there's a mesh storage pocket. Measuring 78 inches high at its tallest point, the tent sets up on a two-pole pin-and-ring frame system with shock-corded fiberglass poles. Durable steel clips secure tent to frame. Polyurethane coats heavy-duty, flame-retardant taffeta walls and rainfly. The floor is rip-stop polyethylene. Stakes and a carry/storage bag come with the tent. Setup instructions are included.

Customer Review: Beware! Old and Used Tent from Amazon!
To be honest, I was excited that I was going to get my first tent and I plan to use it really soon. However, after I received it today, I was surprised to find out that the condition of the tent was in. It was not new at all and as matter of fact, it was very used. The carrying bag has dirt/grass over it. The tent was folded nicely in a box to fool me to think that it was new but once I opened up the tent, I notice that the tent has probably been used many times. I guess it was a customer-returned item before. I am a regular customer of Amazon. It's not my first time that I received an used product from Amazon but this time the condition of this tent was just not acceptable (I would probably find a newer tent in a thrifty store). Needless to say, I am returning this but the shipping charge will be costly and straight coming out of my pocket. What a disappointing experience.

Use camping supply lists to make sure your camping trips have everything you need.

The great question of our time is 'how can the Internet make camping better?' Just kidding. Camping is all about getting away from home, crowds, traffic, civilization, and, yes, getting away from the Internet and the World-Wide-Web.

However, just because you're trying to get away from technology and crowds, doesn't mean you can't use the web to make your 2008 camping experience your best ever.

Just start by using the web to find a great camping supplies checklist to speed your camping packing and ensure enjoyment. Having a great camp packing checklist makes your preparation easy and ensures you don't forget essential items Type 'free printable camping supplies list' into your search engine. You'll find a number of excellent lists. Find the one that seems best to you, or copy and paste from them to create your own list in your word processor.

About a week before your trip go through the list carefully. Look for things that might be missing from the list - especially anything that might be unique to this particular camping trip. Add these items to the list.

Check off all the items in the camping list that you have. Be careful - this is where a mistake could mess up your trip. For those items that you *don't* have - I like to draw little square check boxes next to them, and then during the week I have plenty of time to go buy them, and 'check them off' the list.

Now it's time to go on your camping trip and enjoy yourself. But, bring the printed out list with you. During the weekend, I promise you, you'll inevitably find some things that weren't on the list but that you wish you'd brought with you. Note them down on the paper list. And, when you get home, edit your list and add these items. After a couple trips, you'll have a camping list that's 99.9% perfect for your own special style of camping!

That's all there is to it go find your camping supply list now, print it out, and enjoy the great outdoors!

My favorite list is this camping supply checklist. It's free and printable. For other trips I like this travel list and using a printable calendar.