Why 2013 is the Perfect Time to Go Bicycle Touring!

Lots of people me meet confess that they dream of dropping everything to cycle around the world.

Some of them actually do it.  Like Martin and Pierette, a couple we stayed with in the Yukon.  Here’s why these two seemingly normal individuals sold their home and most of their possession and headed south on touring bikes:

By embarking on this new adventure we hope to discover the strange and new and escape the routine that we have become accustomed to.  We discovered in recent years, from our few travel outings, that we enjoy the foreign lands, the different cultures and lifestyles and chance meetings with locals more than the big ticket attractions.  By travelling slowly (like the turtles…)on bikes, we hope to enjoy not only point A and point B but every inch of the way in between.  We want to smell the flowers, feel the breeze, be warmed by the sun, be refreshed by the rain, and laugh with the people along the way.

We plan to travel simply and within our financial means and our physical capabilities.  We have no definite route, and no time constraints…when we’ve had enough, we’ll stop; until then… we pedal.

What’s Stopping You?

Many more people stick with the status quo.  They write from time to time to say they’re still dreaming of a tour, but a new job or a big move or the kid’s schooling has gotten in the way.

I realize there are legitimate reasons for foregoing a bicycle tour.  Some people have financial obligations that stand in their way, others are committed to partners or families who don’t share their dreams.

But what about the rest of you?

Why haven’t you set off on your dream tour?

Is it money that’s standing in the way?  Granted, these are tough economic times for many of us.  But I don’t see the market for i-phones, $4 cappuccinos and SUVs drying up any day soon.  Bike touring is cheap (if you want it to be).

We just spent 3 months touring Australia.  Total cost…$1,500.  Really.    $8.30 per person per day.  In one of the most expensive countries on the planet.

Wow!  $8.30 a day.  That’s cheap, you’re probably thinking.  A crappy calorie-filled lunch at McDonald’s costs as much.

$10 a day is enough to do a minimalist bike tour (wild camping, couchsurfing, self-catering) in a developed country.  For $20 a day you can live comfortably (budget hotels, restaurants) in the developing world.

As I see it, money shouldn’t stand in the way of a bike tour (at least not for most people living in the developed world).  Get a decent job, live a minimalist lifestyle (without depriving yourself of any happiness) and save.

A Question of Priorities

Maybe it’s time that’s stopping you.  You need to focus on your education or your career and don’t have time to travel.  Fair enough.  Unless you’ve been dragging out the same excuse for the past 10 years.   If bike travel is a serious goal for you, make it a priority.

Since our society doesn’t prioritize travel, we have a tendency to put it on the back burner.  Most people say they’d love to travel more.  Yet, they don’t do it.  Why?  Because they’ve bought into the idea that extended travel is unobtainable.  Sure, freelancers with high-paying jobs can travel round the world.  And retirees with fat pensions can take off for a few years.  But me?  No way!

I’m here to tell you that you can.  If you really want to.  Choose 6 months in Southeast Asia over a flat screen TV.  Give car-free living a try and see how big your bank balance has grown by the end of the year.  Don’t give in to fear mongerers who warn you that you’ll never again be employable if you take time out for travel.

Justin and Emma took time out for a multi-year bike tour across Asia.  They’re now back in New Zealand–gainfully employed and enriched by their experiences abroad.

The Berg brothers of North Dakota spent nine months cycling between Alaska and Argentina.  Did a gap year throw a wrench in their futures?  Absolutely not.  Youngest brother David is in his first year of college.  Nathan is busy pursuing a career in music and big brother Isaiah is getting in shape for Marine Corps Officer Candidate School.

Brits Becki and Matt set off with a toddler in tow for an 8-month bike tour and have settled back into life in Manchester.

What’s my point?  People who take time out for cycle tours don’t end up down and out in a homeless shelter once they return to “normal life.”  They earn degrees, find meaningful work and go on to raise families.

You’re Crazy!

Those closest to you may find the idea of extended travel absurd.  They’ll cart out the usual reasons why you should stick around not rocking the boat.

It’ll ruin your career.  It’s not good for the kids.  Finish your education first.  The world is a dangerous place beyond our borders

Go ahead, listen.  Then talk to someone who’s experienced the magic of bicycle travel.  Somebody like Martin or Pierette.

For more inspiration, check out his photo gallery of happy, well-adjusted bike touring nomads we’ve met:

 

Source: http://www.worldbiking.info/wordpress/2013/01/why-2013-is-the-perfect-time-to-go-bicycle-touring/

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Taking to the Trails!

Mountain biking trails on a fully loaded bicycle?  Yes, it’s possible.

I know.  From experience.

No entirely positive experience.  But one I ultimately don’t regret.

Now, I’d come to New Zealand expecting some fairly laidback cycling.  I got about 100 kilometers of it.  On the Otago Central Rail Trail.  That was easy.  No steep gradients.  No headwinds.  No killer climbs.  No crazed drivers of milk trucks wanting to find out what it’s like to make road kill out of an overseas cyclist.

So why’d we decide to take on the Timber Trail?  I blame it on Wellington-based bicycle advocate Patrick Morgan .  It was Patrick, after all, who gifted us a copy of the (amazing) Kenneth Brothers Classic New Zealand Cycle Trails guide.

The book that started all this trail frenzy! Get it if you want to cycle NZ.

And it’s that innocent looking book that got us turned on to the idea of cycling the Timber Trail.

The Timber Trail ushers you through majestic native forest, across the flanks of Mount Pureora, over long suspension bridges and down to the village of Ongarue on historic bush tramlines.

Cool.  I liked the idea of cruising across a suspension bridge tucked away deep in Pureora forest.

Don’t do it if there’s rain.  It’ll be too muddy.

That was Patrick’s advice.

By the time we reached the trailhead, it had been raining off and on for the last 24 hours.  Heavy, drenching rain.  The kind that washes out mountain biking trails, I imagine.

The locals were overjoyed with the much-needed precipitation.  It hadn’t rained for weeks, they told us.  Farmers were getting worried.

Was I surprised that our arrival into the region had been ushered in with a rainstorm?  Absolutely not.

We weren’t entirely certain if it was prudent to take on the trail under such weather conditions.  The official NZ Cycle Trails website warns that the Timber Trail is a remote backcountry ride.  Check the weather forecast, it says.  Take warm clothing and food!  Inform someone of your whereabouts!

Okay, okay.  Maybe they were going a little overboard on the precautions.  But lost cyclists make for bad headlines.

A question of perspective

The Kennett Brothers rate this ride as easy to intermediate.  Which may be accurate if you’re Julie Bresset or doing the trail from north to south where it’s mostly downhill.

Heading the opposite direction (as we were) is not so easy.  Here are a few of the highlights:

It started off so easy!

 

It'll be a breeze if the route stays like this!

 

Naturally, the trail got a bit tougher. We pushed quite bit. Past the obstacles and over the steep bits.

 

These very cool suspension bridges (there must be about ten of them) are scary. It's a loooong way down and I kept my glance straight ahead.

It was pretty late before we made it midway and set up camp for the night.

 

It got down below freezing at night! Luckily the sun shone brightly in the morning and warmed us up quickly.

 

Pushing! One of the less romantic parts of bike touring!

 

Sometimes you just want to throw down your bike and give up for awhile@

And then the cycling gets easier again!

Finally we make it all the way to the end of the Timber Trail and pitch up for the night at the conservation campsite in Pureora.

Enough!

Had we had enough after our trials on the Timber Trail?  No way!

Adventure was calling.  We found it in the form of the Waikato River Trail. We did stages 1 (easy) and 3 (intermediate).

Most of the cycling wasn’t too tough…except for this part:

 

It was really rough going for awhile on the Waikato River Trail! Back country, indeed.

Fortunately we were rewarded with a beautiful view of Lake Waipapa!

Ready to cry uncle now?

Now have we had enough of the New Zealand cycle trails?  NO!  Next up is the Hauraki Rail Trail in the Coromandel region.  But this one, promise the Kennett  Brothers, is easy.  VERY easy in fact.  We’ll see about that!

 

Source: http://www.worldbiking.info/wordpress/2013/02/taking-to-the-trails/

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People of the World

One of the things I enjoy most about bicycle touring is the chance to capture images of all the interesting people of the world.

Here are some of those individuals:

 

For more images from around the world check out our FLICKR page

Source: http://www.worldbiking.info/wordpress/2013/02/people-of-the-world/

Bicycling bike fever

Snuza HALO Infant Baby Movement Monitor + Free 4-in-1 Forehead Ear Baby Thermometer from Snuza

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Mallin Patio and Outdoor Furniture

Mallin patio furniture company has managed to stay exist for years and become many people’s favorite. They produce top quality patio furniture with numerous style including wrought iron, wicker and aluminum, which should be enough to meet your needs.

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You could easily find the one that you have been looking in Mallin patio furniture online store as the website is nicely designed for a simple searching with an appropriate categorization.

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Teaching Your Dog To Swim

Most of us know that almost all dogs like to swim… particularly retrievers and other sporting dogs. However, regardless of your dog’s breed or mix of breeds, it’s very important that your pet be taught how to swim, rather than just assuming he will automatically know how.

Have you ever met a Labrador retriever that [...]

Source: http://freedogtraininginfo.com/192/teaching-your-dog-to-swim/

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A Diet That Asks You Not to Lose Weight (at First)

Perhaps the best time to learn how to avoid regaining lost pounds is before you shed a single one, according to a new study.

Source: http://www.webmd.com/diet/news/20121030/diet-not-lose-weight-first?src=RSS_PUBLIC

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12 Chicken Coop Plans and Free 12 x 12 Chicken Coop Plans

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Creative Sound Blaster Tactic 3D Alpha USB Gaming Headset by Creative

We are proud to stock the excellent Creative Sound Blaster Tactic 3D Alpha USB Gaming Headset.

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Dog a Deer? Don’t Chase Him!

Has your dog ever been a “deer?” Obviously not in the literal sense, of course he has always been a dog! However, most dog owners will agree that at one point or another, we’ve all experienced our dog acting like “a deer in headlights!” You know the look… he gets out of the house or [...]

Source: http://freedogtraininginfo.com/185/dog-a-deer-dont-chase-him/

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Skagen Men's 233LTMB Black Titanium Mesh Bracelet Watch from Skagen

Watches For Men are proud to offer the fantastic Skagen Men's 233LTMB Black Titanium Mesh Bracelet Watch.

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Pendleton Women's Petite Wrap Coat from Pendleton

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Why 2013 is the Perfect Time to Go Bicycle Touring!

Lots of people me meet confess that they dream of dropping everything to cycle around the world.

Some of them actually do it.  Like Martin and Pierette, a couple we stayed with in the Yukon.  Here’s why these two seemingly normal individuals sold their home and most of their possession and headed south on touring bikes:

By embarking on this new adventure we hope to discover the strange and new and escape the routine that we have become accustomed to.  We discovered in recent years, from our few travel outings, that we enjoy the foreign lands, the different cultures and lifestyles and chance meetings with locals more than the big ticket attractions.  By travelling slowly (like the turtles…)on bikes, we hope to enjoy not only point A and point B but every inch of the way in between.  We want to smell the flowers, feel the breeze, be warmed by the sun, be refreshed by the rain, and laugh with the people along the way.

We plan to travel simply and within our financial means and our physical capabilities.  We have no definite route, and no time constraints…when we’ve had enough, we’ll stop; until then… we pedal.

What’s Stopping You?

Many more people stick with the status quo.  They write from time to time to say they’re still dreaming of a tour, but a new job or a big move or the kid’s schooling has gotten in the way.

I realize there are legitimate reasons for foregoing a bicycle tour.  Some people have financial obligations that stand in their way, others are committed to partners or families who don’t share their dreams.

But what about the rest of you?

Why haven’t you set off on your dream tour?

Is it money that’s standing in the way?  Granted, these are tough economic times for many of us.  But I don’t see the market for i-phones, $4 cappuccinos and SUVs drying up any day soon.  Bike touring is cheap (if you want it to be).

We just spent 3 months touring Australia.  Total cost…$1,500.  Really.    $8.30 per person per day.  In one of the most expensive countries on the planet.

Wow!  $8.30 a day.  That’s cheap, you’re probably thinking.  A crappy calorie-filled lunch at McDonald’s costs as much.

$10 a day is enough to do a minimalist bike tour (wild camping, couchsurfing, self-catering) in a developed country.  For $20 a day you can live comfortably (budget hotels, restaurants) in the developing world.

As I see it, money shouldn’t stand in the way of a bike tour (at least not for most people living in the developed world).  Get a decent job, live a minimalist lifestyle (without depriving yourself of any happiness) and save.

A Question of Priorities

Maybe it’s time that’s stopping you.  You need to focus on your education or your career and don’t have time to travel.  Fair enough.  Unless you’ve been dragging out the same excuse for the past 10 years.   If bike travel is a serious goal for you, make it a priority.

Since our society doesn’t prioritize travel, we have a tendency to put it on the back burner.  Most people say they’d love to travel more.  Yet, they don’t do it.  Why?  Because they’ve bought into the idea that extended travel is unobtainable.  Sure, freelancers with high-paying jobs can travel round the world.  And retirees with fat pensions can take off for a few years.  But me?  No way!

I’m here to tell you that you can.  If you really want to.  Choose 6 months in Southeast Asia over a flat screen TV.  Give car-free living a try and see how big your bank balance has grown by the end of the year.  Don’t give in to fear mongerers who warn you that you’ll never again be employable if you take time out for travel.

Justin and Emma took time out for a multi-year bike tour across Asia.  They’re now back in New Zealand–gainfully employed and enriched by their experiences abroad.

The Berg brothers of North Dakota spent nine months cycling between Alaska and Argentina.  Did a gap year throw a wrench in their futures?  Absolutely not.  Youngest brother David is in his first year of college.  Nathan is busy pursuing a career in music and big brother Isaiah is getting in shape for Marine Corps Officer Candidate School.

Brits Becki and Matt set off with a toddler in tow for an 8-month bike tour and have settled back into life in Manchester.

What’s my point?  People who take time out for cycle tours don’t end up down and out in a homeless shelter once they return to “normal life.”  They earn degrees, find meaningful work and go on to raise families.

You’re Crazy!

Those closest to you may find the idea of extended travel absurd.  They’ll cart out the usual reasons why you should stick around not rocking the boat.

It’ll ruin your career.  It’s not good for the kids.  Finish your education first.  The world is a dangerous place beyond our borders

Go ahead, listen.  Then talk to someone who’s experienced the magic of bicycle travel.  Somebody like Martin or Pierette.

For more inspiration, check out his photo gallery of happy, well-adjusted bike touring nomads we’ve met:

 

Source: http://www.worldbiking.info/wordpress/2013/01/why-2013-is-the-perfect-time-to-go-bicycle-touring/

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Britax Parkway SGL Booster Seat, Cloudburst from Britax USA

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Fujifilm FinePix SL300 14 MP Digital Camera with 30x Optical Zoom by FUJIFILM

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Pro Armor H085031BL Fat Peg Black Nerf Bar by Pro Armor

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Pro Picks: So Phil Was A Good Choice (Can He Do It Again?)

If you missed Part 1 of our Pro Picks, we recapped the thrilling afternoon at Callaway Headquarters when Phil Mickelson made his run at 59. Click here to read Part 1.

Now, on to the picks for this week’s AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am!

The Picks

Harry Arnett (SVP, Marketing)
Harry’s Picks: Mickelson, Luke List, Tommy Gainey

One thing they always say in Vegas is ride the hot hand. (Well, actually, the other thing they always say in Vegas to me is “Sir, we’re going to have to ask you to stop blaming the dealer for your losses…” But I digress). So, keeping that in mind, it should come as no surprise that I am picking:

1. RAZR FIT XTREME to win…er…Phil Mickelson to win. Sorry, I got confused there for a second. With all of Phil’s praise for the driver, I almost forgot that there was a Tour player on the other end of it doing the winning! Phil’s never looked better. Drove it with such confidence and made every putt. And oh the putting! He was making buckets. So Phil will win. And he might win by a lot.

2. Luke List. I took a week off from picking Luke List last week trying to have him avoid the jinx. But this week, Luke is poised for a great tournament. I texted him Monday night and asked him how he was feeling. Here’s his reply: “Stop texting me.” But I know that’s code for “I’m going to win this week.”

3. Dark Horse Alert! Dark Horse Alert! Tommy Gainey. He won the Callaway Invitational at Pebble in the Fall. He played in the group right in front of me at Spyglass on a 50 degree day when it was blowing and raining sideways and shot 68. Dude loves the Peninsula and will be a threat this week.

There you go. This event is not one of my favorites to watch. Love Pebble, MPCC, and Spy, but I can do without watching celebrities play golf. When I want to watch Tour golf, I want to watch Tour players. But that’s another story for another time…

Greg Sabella (Trade Marketing Director)
Greg’s Picks: Mickelson, Jim Furyk, Brian Stuard

Pick 1: Phil - Going with the obvious choice again this week, coming off a dominating performance with RAZR FIT XTREME in the desert.  He won this tournament last year, shot a 62 at Spyglass a few years ago (which is like a 57 at a “normal” golf course) and we’re still on the left coast, where Phil racks up W’s.

Pick 2: Brian Stuard - Off to a great start in 2013 with 2 top-10′s in his first three events. Stuard is coming into the bay area playing well and Callaway Tour Reps are chattering about how good this kid is.

He hits greens and makes putts (7th in strokes gained) which will be key with small greens at Pebble.  If it gets cold, I like his chances even more.  Growing up in Michigan, he can obviously golf his ball when the weather is cold and wet.

Pick 3:  Jim Furyk. Crafty vet making his first start of the year.  He is a grinder, and with his sponsors, Callaway Golf & 5-Hour Energy, the LONG courses and LONG rounds with amateurs shouldn’t phase him a bit…

Jeff Newton (Tour Beat Writer)
Jeff’s Picks: Mickelson, Gainey, James Hahn

Pick #1 - Mickelson
I didn’t take Phil last week and look how that turned out. On the plus side, I did learn a few valuable lessons:

- When a hall of famer is playing an event he’s won twice before, make sure to pick said hall of famer.

- When the best “West Coast” player on Tour is playing in a “West Coast” event, make sure to pick that player.

- When in doubt, pick Phil Mickelson.

I don’t have any doubts about Phil this week. His swing looks great, he’s pummeling his RAZR Fit Xtreme Driver, and he’s making every putt he looks at.

Pick #2 - Gainey
He won here last year at the Callaway Invitational and has looked sharp so far this season. Gainey has good vibes and great memories on his side.

Pick #3 - Hahn
Hahn has been on point since his T4 finish in Palm Springs, plus the Bay Area resident feels right at home this week (he lives in Alameda). After posting a final round 62 last Sunday, his game is clearly in great shape. He’ll be confident and comfortable on these three great courses.

The Final Word

Jason Finley is out of the office this week and we’ve got to give him a quick shout out for picking Mickelson to win last weekend. Harry and Greg picked Phil too.

If ever there was a week for Lefty to go back-to-back, this is it. Hey, we’re just saying. For more on all of our PGA Tour staffers, please visit our Callaway Staff Pros page.

Source: http://blog.callawaygolf.com/tour-news/pro-picks-so-phil-was-a-good-choice-part-2/

Marquee adventures Golf Push Cart Makes Walking Easier

Looking Back on 2012

2012 has been a good year for us.  It is, quite possibly, the only year I haven’t seriously contemplated giving up this bicycle touring gig.

The year began on the hazardous Chinese highways (with a missing passport no less!) and comes to a close on an alpaca farm in the Southlands region of New Zealand.

We covered some 20,000 kilometers in eleven countries on two continents and have faced the usual challenges—headwinds and heat, crazed and contemptible drivers, days in the saddle far too long for comfort.

Those trying times have been quickly forgotten as serendipity intercepted to bring good things our way.  By things, what I really mean is people.  Fleeting interactions with folks that boost morale and leave a positive mark on our lives.   Strangers that become friends.

Yes, 2012 has been one of the best bicycle touring years yet.  And here are a few of the highlights.

The slideshow is best viewed in full screen mode.  Hit the button with all the arrows in the lower right hand corner and be sure to use the Show Info mode (top right once you’re in full screen mode) to view the commentary.

 

 

 

Source: http://www.worldbiking.info/wordpress/2012/12/looking-back-on-2012/

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Paul Robinson: The Reflecting Pool (v13)

I was first shown ‘The Reflecting Pool’ by Andy Raether last year while working other projects in red rocks and never got a chance to give it a try. After finishing an unfinished project from last year, now called Fuzzy Logic, I became motivated on finding new lines in the area and kind of ‘rediscovered’ this line. I began working the climb with friend, Carlo Traversi.

The climb is super complex and it took us two days just to figure out the beta we were gonna use to climb it. Carlo was able to finish the line first and it turned out that his beta was not the easiest beta for me. It wasn’t until the end of the third day that I found a different sequence that worked best for me and I was able to send it and make it home in time to watch the second half of the Super Bowl!

~Paul Robinson, prAna Ambassador

 

Source: http://www.prana.com/life/2013/02/09/tbd-pauls-new-send/

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Summer Infant Extra Tall Decorative Walk-Thru Gate by Summer Infant, Inc.

Essential Baby Products are happy to stock the fantastic Summer Infant Extra Tall Decorative Walk-Thru Gate.

With so many available today, it is wise to have a name you can trust. The Summer Infant Extra Tall Decorative Walk-Thru Gate is certainly that and will be a great buy.

For this price, the Summer Infant Extra Tall Decorative Walk-Thru Gate is widely respected and is always a popular choice amongst many people. Summer Infant, Inc. have added some excellent touches and this equals good value for money.

Source: http://essentialbabyproducts.net/JustForYou/summer-infant-extra-tall-decorative-walk-thru-gate

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Cyber Acoustics Premium USB Stereo Headset (AC-9648) from Cyber Acoustics

Best Gaming Mouse are delighted to present the excellent Cyber Acoustics Premium USB Stereo Headset (AC-9648).

With so many on offer recently, it is good to have a make you can trust. The Cyber Acoustics Premium USB Stereo Headset (AC-9648) is certainly that and will be a excellent purchase.

For this great price, the Cyber Acoustics Premium USB Stereo Headset (AC-9648) is widely respected and is a popular choice with lots of people. Cyber Acoustics have provided some excellent touches and this results in good value for money.

Source: http://bestgaming-mouse.com/JustForYou/cyber-acoustics-premium-usb-stereo-headset-ac-9648

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Teaching the Dog to Think: My Year of Dog Agility Training with My Collie, Willow

TEACHING THE DOG TO THINK is Kimberly Davis’ engaging memoir about her crash introduction to the sport of dog agility—with its jumps, tunnels, balance beams and weave poles. An award-winning poet and blogger, Davis vividly describes her frustrations trying to get her dog to “mind.” We then watch as her first steely-eyed agility coach shames her into giving up choke collars and scruff shakes in favor of the “positive” training methods used by agility instructors. Davis’ breezy, often humorous account shows how these new techniques allow her to communicate with the “alien” mind of a dog. Also how they transform her unruly yearling collie, Willow, into a loyal, hardworking teammate. Davis ultimately carries the lessons she has mastered in dog training class into other areas of her life, particularly into parenting and teaching creative writing. In the end, this memoir becomes a soul-searching exploration of how to get others to do what we want without bullying or cruelty—by using our heads and forcing ourselves to be a little smarter. A subtly subversive book about dealing responsibly with those less powerful than ourselves, Teaching The Dog To Think speaks not only to dog lovers, but also to anyone who has ever felt helpless, angry, or frustrated as a parent, teacher or pet owner. “You MUST read this book if you have children or pets, and want to change their behavior without coercion!”–Richard McManus, Founder and President, The Fluency Factory “An interesting story of how switching to clicker training vastly improved one agility fan’s dog and also changed her own approach to family life.”–Karen Pryor, author of Don’t Shoot the Dog and Reaching the Animal Mind “A wonderful entry point for anyone learning about these important new methods for teaching skills and enhancing creativity.”–Catherine S. Mayes, Independent Autism Advocate and Autism Project Advocate, Massachusetts Advocates for Children

List Price:$14.99

Price:$13.49

You save:$1.50

Read More About This Product

Source: http://how-do-you-train-a-dog.net/easy-dog-training/teaching-the-dog-to-think-my-year-of-dog-agility-training-with-my-collie-willow/

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So, You Wanna Adopt A Dog? What You MUST Know About Adopting A Dog Before You Bring One Home

“If you have never had the pleasure of owning a dog before, your first dog can be an amazing experience. Yet, dog ownership is not something to be entered into lightly. You must know what to expect, and be certain that you are ready to become a dog owner because they are much more of a commitment than you might imagine. That being said, if you really are ready to adopt a dog, then you will be embarking on a wonderful journey as they will also add much more enjoyment to your life than you could believe possible.”

This book is a must have for anyone considering adopting a dog and reveals important information you should consider such as:

• What it takes to own a dog – The financial and time commitments you must be prepared to give to your new furry friend.
• How to choose the perfect dog for your family
• The 5 criteria for a healthy, adoptable dog that you must look for before you take him home (if these don’t pass “the test” then you should NOT adopt this dog)
• How to find a breeder that you can trust
• The 9 things you must have in your house before you bring your new pet home
• How to make sure your new dog gets the nutrition he needs for a long and healthy life
• The 3 vital grooming tasks you must regularly perform on your dog.

List Price: $2.99

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Source: http://doglovergifts.net/so-you-wanna-adopt-a-dog-what-you-must-know-about-adopting-a-dog-before-you-bring-one-home/

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Creative and Special DIY Baby Mobile

Not until you add a mobile nursery, the nursery for a baby is not a nursery. Stimulating a baby with a simple toy like that and with what we call .. home decor is just so special, there is something magical about it. A mobile can be made more shining with some simple ingredients and themes. Be inspired and think of what you can create.

With this idea, you can explore your creativity with a DIY project. The idea is coming from your original mind so the process will be fun. When the baby gets older someday, he/she will be proud noticing that mom and dad had made something spectacular for them. Begin to work and take the chance.

Perhaps you have some used papers scattered around (containing some good deals, such as a snatch paper priced 10 cents, or travel guides for places such as Hobby Lobby). Create something special out of this patterned, colorful papers. For instance, take a look at this DIY mobile. Give your baby’s room more colors as the colors will blow your baby’s mind and the spin will play the pinwheels.

Or perhaps something more whimsical is what you searched. Make your baby dream about her flying dreams and joy the days with these lovely baby birds. In order for the birds to stay affirm, for this project, you may need some stock of cards and not scrapbook of paper.

As pictured here, this is another advanture with paper! The project of hot air balloon is just doable and so adorable. This project is cute for a circus theme or for a room of a baby room filled with planes, trains, and cars, as well other means of transportation. You should try this project as this DIY is too cute.

Allright now we use the flower themes. For this project, you may need some buttons and felt. Grab your glue gun, heat it up for a while and then start the project.

A rainy night outside the house will add to the joy of sleeping of your cute baby. Don’t let the baby cry during the night but make them sleep soundly at night with this cloud mobile and rain.

Another theme that you should try is taking the lovely butterflies. There are no exclusion for these. This project feels voluminous and I like the lightness. It seems like the baby is taken off for a little ride with the friendly butterflies.

For inspiration, have a look at some of other baby mobiles project. Perhaps you can get an idea and make something funny for your baby’s nursery and yourself.

 

Source: http://www.tophomeideas.com/creative-and-special-diy-baby-mobile/

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Dancing with Dogs: Easy-to-Learn Techniques and Fun Routines for You and Your Dog

Heelwork training is a rewarding experience that will help you bond with your best friend whilst creating an imaginative and fun show. This easy-to-follow book teaches you how to train your dog to perform simple but elaborate-looking dance routines. Teach him basic tricks, learn how to pick the music and choreograph the routine and try one of 15 dances. Step-by-step instructions are clearly illustrated to show you and your pooch how to enjoy this exciting new sport.

List Price:$18.97

Read More About This Product

Source: http://how-do-you-train-a-dog.net/easy-dog-training/dancing-with-dogs-easy-to-learn-techniques-and-fun-routines-for-you-and-your-dog/

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Favorite 85lbs Medium Dog Tie-Out Cable Red M_85 lbs=920 Ibs 20feet Get Rabate

Title : Favorite 85lbs Medium Dog Tie-Out Cable Red M_85 lbs=920 Ibs 20feet
ASIN : B00A643D72
Description : Give your dog the freedom to explore the outdoors while ensuring his safety. Our tie out cable controls your dog’s access while providing freedom of movement. Sturdy galvanized steel cable wrapped with water-resistant poly-vinyl coating is weather resistant, rust proof and effective. Won’t scratch furniture or damage lawns.

Features:
-Twin swivel snaps eliminated tangling
-Dog weight rated
-Direct connection for added strength
-Security and strength tested; safer and stronger than chain
-Easily attaches to a post or spiral stake
-Easy to clean, coil and store
-Bright red color is great for visibility

Caution:
Damage or failure may occur if cable becomes kinked or knotted or when continually flexed around corners (houses, garages) or sharp objects.
-Not for use with guard dogs
-Allows freedom for dogs

Features :

• Twin swivel snaps eliminated tangling
• Dog weight rated
• Direct connection for added strength
• Security and strength tested; safer and stronger than chain
• Easily attaches to a post or spiral stake

List Price : $5.39
Price : $5.39

Category: Tie-Outs & Stakes
Brand: MFPS
Item Page Detail URL : link

Source: http://dogtrainingadvise4you.com/tie-outs-stakes/favorite-85lbs-medium-dog-tie-out-cable-red-m_85-lbs920-ibs-20feet-get-rabate/

Dog and Puppy Training Tips Self Help Dog Training

Teach Your Dog To Lie Down — The Long Down-Stay

There is a major difference in the down/stay and the long down, when you begin to teach your dog to lie down. The down/stay can only be taught after the dog has learned to down on command. Teaching Your Dog To Lie Down – Easier Than You Think Teaching your dog to lie down on [...]

The post Teach Your Dog To Lie Down — The Long Down-Stay appeared first on Adams Dog Training and Dog Behavior.

Source: http://www.dogproblems.com/dog-obedience-training/teach-your-dog-to-lie-down-the-long-down-stay/

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Natural Factors Wellbetx PGX Plus Mulberry Veg. Capsules, 180-Count Big SALE

Title : Natural Factors Wellbetx PGX Plus Mulberry Veg. Capsules, 180-Count
ASIN : B0019LPJDM
Description : PGX with Mulberry Extract is a proprietary fiber blend formulated to promote healthy blood sugar levels*. The formula slows glucose absorption and creates a sense of satiety (fullness) while reducing the absorption of calories. This impressive PGX Blend, short for PolyGlycopleX, exerts 3 to 5 times the effects of other fibers.
Features :

• 180 Capsules
• Contains no artificial preservatives, color or sweeteners
• Does not contain corn, dairy, wheat or yeast

List Price : $36.70
Price : $19.99
Saved Price : $16.71

Brand: Natural Factors
Item Page Detail URL : link
Rating : 4.2
Review : I am surprised
I recently (a couple of months ago) started using WellBetX PGX with Mulberry. I am a Type II diabetic and have had trouble getting my numbers down even with medications and other natural products. I decided to try one more thing and I am glad I did. I started taking the WellBetX with my lunch and dinner and trying to keep to a reasonable diet including high fiber foods. I found that if I keep my meals and snacks small and take these capsuls, along with my prescribed meds, I can often find my numbers in the 90s or low 100s. If I don’t take them they can run in the 120s to 130s. This may not seem like much to some people but it sure helped me have some peace of mind. I don’t know if they will work for everyone; I just know what they did for me. KR-Calif.

Source: http://dietingandweightloss-tips.com/natural-factors-wellbetx-pgx-plus-mulberry-veg-capsules-180-count-big-sale/

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Hatching Chicken Eggs

The above video shows the progress and hatching of a chick.

Source: http://successwithpoultry.blogspot.com/2008/09/hatching-chicken-eggs.html

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Dog-Friendly Dog Training

Praise for the 1st Edition of Dog-Friendly Dog Training: “I’m a dog fanatic, read everything I can find on dog behavior, and this book is terrific . . . the methods are clearly spelled out-how to do them, why they … Continue reading →

Source: http://how-do-you-train-a-dog.net/easy-dog-training/dog-friendly-dog-training/

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