<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0"
	xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/"
	xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/"
	xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/"
	xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom"
	xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/"
	xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/"
	>

<channel>
	<title> &#187; hobbies</title>
	<atom:link href="http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/tag/hobbies/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" />
	<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog</link>
	<description>The Thomas The Train Fan Site Blog</description>
	<lastBuildDate>Sat, 07 May 2011 03:33:25 +0000</lastBuildDate>
	<language>en</language>
	<sy:updatePeriod>hourly</sy:updatePeriod>
	<sy:updateFrequency>1</sy:updateFrequency>
	<generator>http://wordpress.org/?v=3.3.2</generator>
		<item>
		<title>The First Steps To Teach Yourself To Play Piano</title>
		<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/the-first-steps-to-teach-yourself-to-play-piano/</link>
		<comments>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/the-first-steps-to-teach-yourself-to-play-piano/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 09 Jan 2010 18:33:24 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mike Eggers</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[christian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Learn Music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[learn to play piano]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[muscian]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[musical instruments]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Piano Music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Play Piano Now]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[self improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sheet music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[teach yourself to play piano]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/?p=3307</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Is it even possible to <a href="http://www.playpianonow.org">teach yourself to play piano</a>? For those with the ability to read music from other musical experiences, the process will be easier. However, this certainly doesn't mean that those without musical training on other instruments can't self teach as well. It just takes some time and patience.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b></b><i></i><u></u>Is it even possible to <a href="http://www.playpianonow.org">teach yourself to play piano</a>? For those with the ability to read music from other musical experiences, the process will be easier. However, this certainly doesn&#8217;t mean that those without musical training on other instruments can&#8217;t self teach as well. It just takes some time and patience.</p>
<p>The 88 keys that make up the piano&#8217;s keyboard consist of 52 white and 36 black keys. Initially you want to focus on learning how to play the white keys. It&#8217;s best if you have a firm understanding of the placement of the white keys before you <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?link_code=ur2&amp;camp=1789&amp;tag=httpwwwmusi0a-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;path=external-search%3Fsearch-type=ss%26keyword=A.D.D.%26index=blended"  class="alinks_links" onclick="return alinks_click(this);"  style="padding-right: 13px; background: url(http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/alinks/images/external.png) center right no-repeat;" title="Learn more about ADD" rel="external">add</a><img class="amazon_image" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=httpwwwmusi0a-20&amp;l=ur2&amp;o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> in the black keys (sharps and flats) to your efforts.</p>
<p>Initially, you will want to understand how to find middle C. From there, everything builds on itself. Middle C is located almost dead center in the piano. Middle C is the 40th white key when counted from the left hand side of the piano, facing the keyboard. Of course, there are other ways to identify it, which will be essential for learning where the other C&#8217;s on the piano keyboard are as well as this note&#8217;s relationship to other notes.</p>
<p>To recognize it after you&#8217;re found middle C the first time, you have to study the formation of the black keys. These are found in sets. The black keys are arranged with two keys, then two white keys, the then three black keys. The white key that sits to the left of the set of two black keys is a C note.</p>
<p>Once you know where C is, then you can easily start to learn the repetitive scales that are part of understanding the piano. The notes go in order from C. Listed, the notes would be written out as C, D, E, F, G, A, B.</p>
<p>As you start to learn the pattern of the piano, learning to play it is like learning to read a book for the very first time. Start with simple letters, which are represented by the names of the keys. Once you learn the letters then move onto the words (notes) and then you continue to learn the sentences (chords) until you can put the whole story together. It takes time, practice, and a really informative line of information in order to teach yourself to play piano.</p>
<p>Mike Eggers is an amateur musician and piano player who writes about how to <a href="http://www.playpianonow.org">Learn To Play Piano</a>. Make sure to check out his other articles, especially if you want to learn to play on piano or want <a href="http://www.gospelpianolessons.info">To Learn Gospel Piano Music</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/the-first-steps-to-teach-yourself-to-play-piano/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Air Hogs Make A Nice Christmas Gift</title>
		<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/air-hogs-make-a-nice-christmas-gift/</link>
		<comments>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/air-hogs-make-a-nice-christmas-gift/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 05 Jan 2010 19:25:15 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Ned Dagostino</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[air hogs]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[air hogs helicopter]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[christmas]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[holidays]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kids]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[product reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[products]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[r/c]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[radio controlled]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[toys]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/?p=3270</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Every year it appears Air Hogs are a favorite Christmas gift. After all, who hasn't thought of flying through the sky at some point in their lives? It's the sensation of fantastic flying fun the makes for a wonderful present. Kids like them because they're so much fun. Parents also like them. Not just because they're fun, but because they require no assembly.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b></b><i></i><u></u>Every year it appears Air Hogs are a favorite Christmas gift. After all, who hasn&#8217;t thought of flying through the sky at some point in their lives? It&#8217;s the sensation of fantastic flying fun the makes for a wonderful present. <a href="http://www.thomasthetrainfansite.com"  class="alinks_links" onclick="return alinks_click(this);" title="Free Thomas The Train Printable Coloring Pages"  style="padding-right: 13px; background: url(http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/alinks/images/external.png) center right no-repeat;" rel="external">Kids</a> like them because they&#8217;re so much fun. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?link_code=ur2&amp;camp=1789&amp;tag=httpwwwmusi0a-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;path=external-search%3Fsearch-type=ss%26keyword=being+a+good+parent%26index=blended"  class="alinks_links" onclick="return alinks_click(this);"  style="padding-right: 13px; background: url(http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/alinks/images/external.png) center right no-repeat;" title="More Resources on being good parents" rel="external">Parents</a><img class="amazon_image" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=httpwwwmusi0a-20&amp;l=ur2&amp;o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> also like them. Not just because they&#8217;re fun, but because they require no assembly.</p>
<p>The radio controlled, feather-light and air-powered flying Air Hogs have models for beginners to more advanced users. New models of this prize winning product line are released often. Some data on the more well-liked models follows.</p>
<p>If you&#8217;re looking for something tiny that&#8217;s big on delivering fun, then take a look at the Air Hogs Havoc Heli. It&#8217;s one of the tiniest RC helicopters in the world. It&#8217;s small size allows it to maneuver well. The Havoc Heli is good for beginners, ages eight and up, and is rated for inside use.</p>
<p>If your kid is a little more advanced the Air Hogs Switchblade is just the thing. It&#8217;s distinctive flying style makes it perfect for children over age ten. The Switchblade looks like an ordinary helicopter on takeoff. lifting off vertically. Then, with a press of the Morph knob on the remote unit, it turns into a stunt flying plane! It is innovations like this and many others that have helped the company build its great reputation.</p>
<p>For something a bit more advanced, the Storm Launcher is an all-terrain wonder. It operates on land, air and water! The Storm Launcher should only be utilized by children age 10 and up and should only be used outside. Compared to it&#8217;s scale, the company says this one can reach speeds of 205 MPH.</p>
<p>Dozens of unique Air Hogs have been made over the years, a number of which are retired. No matter which model you give (or receive) as a present, one flight can tell you why Air Hogs are one of the most popular gifts this year, and will seemingly be for several years to come.</p>
<p>You&#8217;ll be able to find a complete list of the <A HREF="http://www.top10toysforchristmas.net/">top 10 toys for Christmas</A>, including the popular <A HREF="http://www.top10toysforchristmas.net/the-air-hogs-helicopter-and-other-air-hogs-toys">Air Hogs helicopter</A>, by visiting Top10ToysForChristmas.net.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/air-hogs-make-a-nice-christmas-gift/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>1</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Lose The Sugar Addiction Thanks To Any Of The Following Alternatives</title>
		<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/lose-the-sugar-addiction-thanks-to-any-of-the-following-alternatives/</link>
		<comments>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/lose-the-sugar-addiction-thanks-to-any-of-the-following-alternatives/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 03 Jan 2010 14:45:25 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Amy Chadwick</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[drink]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fitness]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[food]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[health]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Nutrition]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[product reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[science]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[sugar]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[weight loss]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/?p=3251</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[I will be the first to say the fact that my addiction to sugar is pretty much as big as anybody's. I put myself on a strict allowance where once or twice per week, I permit myself to indulge.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b></b><i></i><u></u>I will be the first to say the fact that my addiction to sugar is pretty much as big as anybody&#8217;s. I place myself on a weekly allowance where a couple of times weekly, I allow myself to splurge.</p>
<p>Other than this, I generally keep moderately healthy. This does not prevent my preference for sweet treats from going away however, and as a result, I habitually notice myself looking for alternative methods to <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?link_code=ur2&amp;camp=1789&amp;tag=httpwwwmusi0a-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;path=external-search%3Fsearch-type=ss%26keyword=A.D.D.%26index=blended"  class="alinks_links" onclick="return alinks_click(this);"  style="padding-right: 13px; background: url(http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/alinks/images/external.png) center right no-repeat;" title="Learn more about ADD" rel="external">add</a><img class="amazon_image" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=httpwwwmusi0a-20&amp;l=ur2&amp;o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" /> a sweet taste to my food or beverage.</p>
<p>The following are a couple basic substitutes which you could be interested in having in place of sugar. Hopefully they&#8217;ll act to satisfy your needs as you keep the calories downyou limit your caloric intake.</p>
<p>The first option which I&#8217;ll name is something which you will typically\commonly come across in items, &amp; we&#8217;ll usually get pleasure from its sweetness. Honey is fully organic, and keeps everything nutritious should you prefer to utilize this means as your sweetener.</p>
<p>Whether you are adding it to snacks or to beverages such as coffee, the natural markup of it will give you a more nutritious way to sweeten your foods.</p>
<p>An extra manner you can pursue is via the use of fruit extracts. For ages, I&#8217;ve been drinking regular water while throwing in some fruits inside the water while I drink it.</p>
<p>This has less calories than juice &amp; it&#8217;s totally satisfying, and it&#8217;s naturally sweet. Once you get into the habit of this, I can really tell you that you will probably find yourself not needing to return to sugar at all.</p>
<p>It is flavorful &amp; it is sensible, and there&#8217;s not a lot which tops the 2 of these things along with one another</p>
<p>Finally, a new alternative has made its way into the world, &amp; appears to be to be making waves with scores medical &amp; weight conscious individuals.</p>
<p>Released just last year, <a href="http://truvia.org">truvia</a> is making an impact within the nutrition sphere, &amp; it is derived from the totally natural stevia plant, resulting in a natural substitute as opposed to other processed sugar substitutes.</p>
<p>Get the facts about Truvia and <a href="http://truvia.org/truvia-where-to-buy/">where to buy Trivia</a> at this author&#8217;s blog.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/lose-the-sugar-addiction-thanks-to-any-of-the-following-alternatives/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Advice to Buyers of Photo Boxes</title>
		<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/advice-to-buyers-of-photo-boxes/</link>
		<comments>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/advice-to-buyers-of-photo-boxes/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Tue, 29 Dec 2009 17:41:45 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Linda Baines</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[crafts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[free]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gifts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home-accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[photography]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[product reviews]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[shopping]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/?p=3208</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[As we've entered the digital age, our printed photographs definitely take a back seat to images on our computers. Still, every one of our older pictures should be tucked away in <a href="http://photoboxes.org">photo storage boxes</a> to cherish the memories that each one brings us.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b></b><i></i><u></u>As we&#8217;ve entered the digital age, our printed photographs definitely take a back seat to images on our computers. Still, every one of our older pictures should be tucked away in <a href="http://photoboxes.org">picture boxes</a> to cherish the memories that each one brings us.</p>
<p>I can remember the days of one hour photo shops and the expensive cost that came with it. I suppose that it&#8217;s a good thing that we no longer need to pay for things like these and film, and I don&#8217;t see things ever going back to that state.</p>
<p>As a result, the pictures we&#8217;ve taken from our past are relics of a sort. They bring us back to an era where things were different, and they should be treated as time capsules.</p>
<p>The best way to preserve the quality of pictures like these is by storing them inside photograph boxes. Not only will they be easy to access, but the aura surrounding them will be enhanced through the presence of such a great accessory. Let&#8217;s look at a few of the things to keep in mind when buying one.</p>
<p>First and foremost, you want to make sure that you buy a sturdy box. Metal corners are advisable, as these can more easily handle the weight of other boxes that sit atop them. There are others that have the ability to connect to other ones via snap, and these could work just as well.</p>
<p>This next piece of advice has to do with keeping the quality of your older pictures high, without seeing them turn orange due to acid exposure. Some picture boxes will be lined with acid, and you should avoid these at all costs. The acid will slowly rub onto your images, altering their composition.</p>
<p>As far as styles go, you&#8217;ll have plenty to choose from. There are leather, metal, and many other materials that could be right for your needs.</p>
<p>From there, it&#8217;s all about personal tastes and what appeals to you. Find something that you&#8217;ll enjoy just as much as the photographs you&#8217;ll be preserving.</p>
<p>Learn more about photo storage boxes, <a href="http://photoboxes.org/wardrobe-moving-boxes/">wardrobe boxes for moving</a>, and other types, visit this writer&#8217;s blog.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/advice-to-buyers-of-photo-boxes/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Cheap Electric Guitars: When Buying One Is Okay</title>
		<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/cheap-electric-guitars-when-buying-one-is-okay/</link>
		<comments>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/cheap-electric-guitars-when-buying-one-is-okay/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Fri, 11 Dec 2009 16:02:01 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Matilda Canterbury</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cheap electric guitars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[electric guitars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[guitars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[kids electric guitars]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[music]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[musical instruments]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/?p=3030</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[So your teenager has decided that they are ready to turn themselves into rock stars. "Well that's fantastic" you may think sarcastically, because chances are they are just going to give up in a few weeks or months anyway, sort of like so many of the other things they get into. But what if you bought them a cheap electric guitar? That would make it so it wouldn't be a huge financial burden on you, and when or if they get tired of it you would not have put a dent in your wallet too much. But if you do not know much about guitars, then you might be a little worried about accidentally buying one that is of very low quality. Because if it were too low of quality, they would likely give up on it immediately one way or the other.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b></b><i></i><u></u>Your teenage child has decided that they want to play the guitar. &#8220;Just great!&#8221; You think to yourself, because chances are they are just going to give up in a few weeks or months anyway, sort of like so many of the other things they get into. But what if you bought them a cheap electric guitar? That would make it so it wouldn&#8217;t be a huge financial burden on you, and when or if they get tired of it you would not have put a dent in your wallet too much. But if you do not know much about guitars, then you might be a little worried about accidentally buying one that is of very low quality. Because if it were too low of quality, they would likely give up on it immediately one way or the other.</p>
<p>So you are sitting there wondering what to do about this guitar problem. Not sure what to do, and not where to turn. A quick search leads me to companies such as Fender and Gibson that have put a great deal of effort in order to reduce the prices on their products. They have successfully managed to reduce prices of guitars that normally would have cost over $200 a half a century ago will now cost as low as $50.</p>
<p>With these prices you begin to wonder if the cheap electric guitars are of any form of quality. Will it break in 2 weeks time? Well today you can find reputable retailers that are selling high quality guitars for as low as or lower than $100. They are generally the same as the expensive brands, meaning that they conform to the factory stipulation. The only difference is that these products are produced in other countries, so they are outsourced products.</p>
<p>Nowadays you have a range of cheap electric guitars to choose from at varying price points. Take this example: a guitar could cost you a little less than $100 and all you would get is the guitar. Compare this now to a packaged deal for around $200 or less you could get the guitar, amp and accessories. You can even find models that are meant for your little ones. Not toy guitars, though, but real, smaller-sized guitars that work just as well as any other, considering their size.</p>
<p>Also do not forget that the internet can lead you to some great deals on an cheap electric guitar if you do some heavy research. You can find quality equipment at reasonable prices almost anywhere online. Shopping online will let you find great discounts and deals, have the item shipped to your doorstep, all while never setting foot into a department store. An added bonus is that if you look hard enough you may find online tutorials for that self proclaimed rock star.</p>
<p>So go ahead and allow your teenager to express themselves, since you will not have spent to much money to get them started on their way to (not so) stardom.</p>
<p>Is your teenager going through their rocker phase and you don&#8217;t want to disappoint them? <a href="http://cheapelectricguitarsinfo.com/">Cheap electric guitars</a> can help you with that, and you won&#8217;t have to break the bank either.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/cheap-electric-guitars-when-buying-one-is-okay/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Comprehending The Common Methods For Toilet Training Cats, It Is Completely Possible</title>
		<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/comprehending-the-common-methods-for-toilet-training-cats-it-is-completely-possible/</link>
		<comments>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/comprehending-the-common-methods-for-toilet-training-cats-it-is-completely-possible/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Mon, 07 Dec 2009 02:32:43 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Mark Popko</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[animal]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[cat]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[children]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[fun]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobby]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[indoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[life]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[outdoors]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pet]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/?p=2999</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[If you have just got a new kitten or cat then you will know just how important it is that they get house-trained. If they leave litter around the house it can be a big problem. The smells and stains are not welcome and it can become a health hazard. To undertake the process of toilet training cats is not one that can be achieved overnight, it requires a lot of resilience and effort.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b></b><i></i><u></u>If you have just got a new kitten or cat then you will know just how important it is that they get house-trained. If they leave litter around the house it can be a big problem. The smells and stains are not welcome and it can become a health hazard. To undertake the process of toilet training cats is not one that can be achieved overnight, it requires a lot of resilience and effort.</p>
<p>To start with you will need to get your new pet litter trained before they can become toilet trained. You will need to make or buy a litter tray or box. This should be of a large enough size for your cat to move around in when they are doing their business. The litter tray or box should be placed somewhere that it is not going to be tripped over and that will give the cat a degree of privacy. This should not be the same place as where they eat or sleep, cats are very clean animals the same as we are. Bear in mind that a litter tray will also give off odours.</p>
<p>Once they are familiar with using the litter tray you can start to train them to use the actual toilet. This can take a fair degree of effort but is achievable with almost any cat. It is much easier done if you have a spare toilet which is designated for the cat to use.</p>
<p>Only after the cat has got used to the litter tray should you start to move it. At first you can bring it closer to the bathroom and then eventually inside. It may help to show the cut where the tray has gone. The next step will involve you raising the level of the tray. You can do this with old newspapers or strong cardboard boxes. Eventually you need to get it to the same height as the toiler seat and also move it into an adjacent position.</p>
<p>The next part of the training involves making your cat switch from the tray to the toilet. For this to be successful you will need to install a litter pan under the actual toilet seat. Into this needs to be placed the same litter as is in the tray. If you do not need to use this bathroom yourself then you can leave both the tray and pan together for a number of days before removing the litter tray or box.</p>
<p>The final part of the training may take some coaxing from you and also a careful check to see that the cat is using the toilet as expected. You need to remove the pan from under the toilet seat. Hopefully your cat will feel comfortable crouching on the seat without the safety of the pan beneath.</p>
<p>It is important to consider the age of the cat when training them. If they are a kitten then you may be able to use a litter tray but a toilet seat could be too large. A cat that is just entering adulthood will learn the quickest.</p>
<p>It is also worth understanding that your cat is going to want to use only that one toilet in your house as the others are not its territory.</p>
<p>TrainKitty.com is a great resource for training your feline friend(s) &#8211; we offer loads of great info on <a href="http://trainkitty.com/page.php?id=Toilet_Training_Cats.html"> Toilet Train Cat </a> and much more =&gt; <a href="http://trainkitty.com/">http://trainkitty.com/</a> Click here to get your own <a href='http://www.uberarticles.com/home.php?id=2216490&amp;p=8840'>unique version of this article</a> with free reprint rights.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/comprehending-the-common-methods-for-toilet-training-cats-it-is-completely-possible/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Spool Knitting Tips</title>
		<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/spool-knitting-tips/</link>
		<comments>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/spool-knitting-tips/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 06 Dec 2009 18:41:48 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Gina Williams</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[crafts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[diy]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home and family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[knitting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leisure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation and leisure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[self improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[small business]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[spool knitting]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/?p=2996</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[In contrast with other traditional forms of knitting, spool knitting relies on the use of a spool and four nails for the creation of an initial fabric pattern. Because of the very simple structure of the elements required, spool knitting remains part of educational practices specific to crafts classes.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b></b><i></i><u></u>Although sharing the same old category of knitting devices, spool knitting uses a spool with four nails in it for the design of the fabric instead of the traditional needles. Because of the very simple structure of the items it requires, spool knitting remains part of educational practices in crafts classes.</p>
<p>Thus, this way of getting children to learn knitting is both instructive and fun. The spool can be either improvised or bought ready made, but the other supplies necessary include a crochet hook, yarn and in case you want to, you can also bring brads, a hammer, drill and a drill bit.</p>
<p>In order to make spool knitting easier, purchase the spool from a tool or home improvement store and get directly to the knitting part. Once you have everything ready just pass the yarn through the spool leaving out a few inches to hang from the bottom.</p>
<p>It is advisable that for this initial spool knitting stage you follow pictures or close face to face instructions so that you have a smooth beginning. Then, you can begin pulling the yarn with the crochet hook by making small loops every time and passing them over the brads, in the process known as the casting on.</p>
<p>The number of brads used in spool knitting varies depending on what you want to achieve; so far, spool knitting has the widest applications for cord making, which is suitable for four or six brads according to the size you aim to achieve.</p>
<p>Yet, it is common knowledge that odd numbers allow easier casting on, therefore, stick to the use of four or six brads even if five are also possible. When knitting, the yarn has to be wrapped around all the brads and pull the loop out, up and over the brad in order to pass to the next line.</p>
<p>Spool knitting makes color variations possible since you require basic skills to perform such changes. Simply cut one yarn type and tie in a different one so that you may be able to continue the knitting process but with a different color.</p>
<p>When learning spool knitting from <a href="http://www.thomasthetrainfansite.com"  class="alinks_links" onclick="return alinks_click(this);" title="FREE printable Thomas The Tank Engine Coloring Pages"  style="padding-right: 13px; background: url(http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/alinks/images/external.png) center right no-repeat;" rel="external">books</a> or web pages, it really assists to match the illustrations with the instructions and understand each step separately before moving to a different one. Before completing work, remember to tie off the ends so that you don&#8217;t spoil the knit. For those who need professional spool knitting, it is preferable to buy a spool knitting machine that works a lot speedier and with superior results.</p>
<p>For further FREE information on knitting try be sure to visiting <a href="http://www.free-knitting-information.com/">Free Knitting Tips</a>.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/spool-knitting-tips/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Make An Inexpensive Toy Box From A Storage Tub</title>
		<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/make-an-inexpensive-toy-box-from-a-storage-tub/</link>
		<comments>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/make-an-inexpensive-toy-box-from-a-storage-tub/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sun, 06 Dec 2009 12:51:03 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Tom Norman</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[accessories]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[advice]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[crafts]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[furniture]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[leisure]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[misc]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[recreation]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[society]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[toys]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/?p=2991</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Most families have at least one traditional toy box that is made of wood with a hinged lid or they may have a molded plastic one that looks like a frog or turtle. These are extremely expensive and rarely hold all the toys a child can have. What are you supposed to do with the rest of them? Hide them under the bed or put them on shelves? Maybe you can just pile them in the corner of the living room.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b></b><i></i><u></u>Most families have at least one traditional toy box that is made of wood with a hinged lid or they may have a molded plastic one that looks like a frog or turtle. These are extremely expensive and rarely hold all the toys a child can have. What are you supposed to do with the rest of them? Hide them under the bed or put them on shelves? Maybe you can just pile them in the corner of the living room.</p>
<p>You can create a toy box from a storage tub that is made of plastic. These tubs come in different colors and different sizes and you can even personalize them more by adding a few things here and there. Tubs can be a very safe alternative to a wooden box. They do not have pointed corners so there is no way the child can hurt themselves. There has been an issue with wooden boxes and lids that slip and smash into the child when they are using it and this will not occur because you remove the plastic lid to get inside. <a href="http://www.thomasthetrainfansite.com"  class="alinks_links" onclick="return alinks_click(this);" title="Free Thomas The Train Printable Coloring Pages"  style="padding-right: 13px; background: url(http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/alinks/images/external.png) center right no-repeat;" rel="external">Kids</a> have a tendency to climb into toy boxes and they do sometimes get shut in. This will not happen with a tub, just make sure to get the kind without locks on the lid and your child will easily be able to push themselves out</p>
<p>Plastic tubs can be decorated in several easy and inexpensive ways to make them more appealing to children. Many different things can be glued on them like stickers or decals. You can make figures from craft foam or felt and glue them on or you can use paint or fabric. Kids can even help you make the toy box and they will enjoy that time you spent with them. The tubs need little care and they won&#8217;t scratch like wooden ones do when they run their toy truck across the top without the wheels.</p>
<p>Painting the tub is an option but if you spray paint the whole thing the paint will chip and peel in time causing an issue for little kids. Tubs come in all colors so there should be no reason to paint the whole thing. You can use acrylic paint to paint flowers or other fun forms on the tub. Stencils used with acrylic paint can make a fun toy box too. Paint yellow ducks on a blue tub, sheep on a purple tub and even fire trucks on a black tub. Stencils are plentiful and there are many made with children in mind. There are even alphabet letters and you can stencil the child&#8217;s name on their specific tub.</p>
<p>Go to the craft shop and purchase craft foam that comes in forms or in a sheet. Most have adhesive applied to the back and peel the protective paper off and stick the foam figure on the tub. You can cut out any figure you want and place details on with marker or fabric paint that comes with a cone like nozzle. To make ladybugs cut 2 circles, one black and one slightly smaller red one. Divide the red wings in half and situate it on top of the black one but separate the half so that a black area shows between them. Cut another black circle and just use a fourth of it as the head placing it near the top where the wings meet. You can cut small black circles from the rest and stick them to the wings and then cut two spots for eyes and place them on the head. After the ladybugs are assembled the child can help you place them on the tub.</p>
<p>Felt also comes with an adhesive backing and you can find regular felt that is just like cloth or the rigid variety. The rigid type is best to use. If you have a hard time finding the felt with adhesive just spray the tub with spray glue and stick the figure on it. Once the glue dries you will not see it at all. Cookie cutters come in many shapes so find one that your child will enjoy. Instead of making cookies place it on the felt and trace around then cut the figure out. Embellish the figures with fabric paint or more felt. Make a bear by cutting the figure out of several variations of brown or black and white for a panda bear. Next cut out a little circle that will be glued with fabric glue onto the middle of the head. This is the bear&#8217;s muzzle. Use a tiny black pompom or small piece of black to place in this circle just north of the center. This is the bear&#8217;s nose. You will need two small black dots for eyes placed above the circle and on either side.</p>
<p>Fabric can be used to cover the tub completely. Cut fabric to fit around all sides of the tub and make sure to push it up underneath the lip. Fabric will unravel and you can stop that from happening by using pinking shears or squirting on substance that will prevent it from unraveling called no fray. Use your spray adhesive and careful roll the fabric onto the tub. It is possible to cut the fabric in sections and stick it on. Do the lid too but never cover the edges, just the middle part. Covering the edges will not allow it to snap onto the tub.</p>
<p>Having a nice wooden or molded plastic toy box is probably a good idea but not many people can afford more than one. Using plastic storage tubs and decorating them might be just the thing to reduce clutter in an inexpensive manner.</p>
<p>Looking for ideas on how to build a cool yet low cost <a href="http://www.pictureproud.co.uk/">Toy Box</a>? Children love <a href="http://www.pictureproud.co.uk/">Toy Box</a>es with bright designs and colors. Learn the easiest way to build great <a href="http://www.pictureproud.co.uk/">Toy Box</a>es for your children today.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/make-an-inexpensive-toy-box-from-a-storage-tub/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>How To Copy PC Games For The Use Of Back Ups</title>
		<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/how-to-copy-pc-games-for-the-use-of-back-ups/</link>
		<comments>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/how-to-copy-pc-games-for-the-use-of-back-ups/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Sat, 05 Dec 2009 03:21:35 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Michele Walls</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[copy games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[parents]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[pc games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[ps3]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[teens]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[video games]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[wii]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[xbox]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[xbox 360]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/?p=2976</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[Let's face it, to a lot of people in the world PC Games and Video Games are their favorite pass time. Just about every home in the world today owns a computer and all of them have computer games. The games that we all have and love to play do not last forever. At some point they will become scratched or just worn-out and wont play. So what are you supposed to do; buy the same game twice? Yes if you want to waste money, no if you are smart! The answer is to copy PC Games.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b></b><i></i><u></u>Let&#8217;s face it, to a lot of people in the world PC Games and Video Games are their favorite pass time. Just about every home in the world today owns a computer and all of them have computer games. The games that we all have and love to play do not last forever. At some point they will become scratched or just worn-out and wont play. So what are you supposed to do; buy the same game twice? Yes if you want to waste money, no if you are smart! The answer is to copy PC Games.</p>
<p>Now people copy PC games for several reasons, first is to help save some money when it comes to owning a game for themselves. Others do because they want to have a back up of a game if they lose a game or their original gets damaged.</p>
<p>Many here the words coping PC Games and they think of two things; one it&#8217;s illegal and two it&#8217;s complicated. Neither of the two are correct. You can copy any game you buy whether it&#8217;s a PC Game or a Video Game since it&#8217;s used as a back up for your own personal use. As for being complicated, its not if you use the right software to copy the game. I highly recommend Game Copy Wizard.</p>
<p>There are a few things your going to need. You will need of course a PC that is capable of playing a PC game to begin with and the game you want to copy.</p>
<p>Now that you have the computer and the game on which you will be making a copy of. The next thing that you will need to make sure that you have is software that is capable to copy PC games without having to have an engineering degree to use. Once again I recommend using Game Copy Wizard for this task.</p>
<p>It will be important in order to copy PC games that you have a computer that has two CD/DVD burners to make an effective copy of your game. This is important as you will not be able to copy your game if you do not have the two burners.</p>
<p>Once you have everything that you will need to copy PC games you can now start the process of actually burning the game on a blank disk. Most of the software that is out there is for the most part able to be put on auto pilot and allowed to run on it&#8217;s own. Often if you can burn a CD then you will be able to copy PC Games with little to no trouble at all.</p>
<p>This is a very brief overview of the things that you will need to keep in mind when you are trying to copy PC games for your backup collection. There really is nothing to this as you will need just a couple of basic things for your computer and software that you will be able to tell what you want copied and which drive to copy the PC game to.</p>
<p>Parent and gamers if you never want to buy the same game again check out this website <a href="http://mperdue.repreview.hop.clickbank.net">Copy PC Games</a> today.</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/how-to-copy-pc-games-for-the-use-of-back-ups/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
		<item>
		<title>Raised Bed Gardening: An Easy Way To Beautifying Your Yard</title>
		<link>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/soil-and-plant-choices-for-raised-bed-gardening/</link>
		<comments>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/soil-and-plant-choices-for-raised-bed-gardening/#comments</comments>
		<pubDate>Wed, 02 Dec 2009 18:30:32 +0000</pubDate>
		<dc:creator>Jason Minor</dc:creator>
				<category><![CDATA[Parenting]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[environmental]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[feng shui]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[gardening]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[hobbies]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home and family]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[home improvement]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[landscaping]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[organic]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[raised garden beds]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[Reference and Education]]></category>
		<category><![CDATA[stress management]]></category>

		<guid isPermaLink="false">http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/?p=2949</guid>
		<description><![CDATA[After building a bed, from a kit or from scratch, you should be prepared to start raised bed gardening for real. Even though the bed is located in its final destination, it's just an empty space for now, right? What's coming next? Don't worry, because you can officially start having fun with your garden.]]></description>
			<content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><b></b><i></i><u></u>After building a bed, from a kit or from scratch, you should be prepared to start raised bed gardening for real. Even though the bed is located in its final destination, it&#8217;s just an empty space for now, right? What&#8217;s coming next? Don&#8217;t worry, because you can officially start having fun with your garden.</p>
<p>When you use the right kind of soil, manage watering and keep your plants healthy and disease free, you can build a great raised bed garden that will beat all your expectations.</p>
<p>Managing Soil: pH Levels</p>
<p>Obviously, your first task is to level your raised bed garden with some quality soil. One great combination is to use a mixture of one quarter yard soil and three quarters of sand and compost. This should provide a great starting point in your garden. Test your soil&#8217;s pH levels too. If the alkaline is overkill, nothing will end up growing.</p>
<p>Weeding Out The Weeds</p>
<p>The structure of your raised bed should make weeds a minor annoyance, but sometimes bad luck will strike. Put mulch of an organic sort over the top of your bed. This can help cut down on weeds drastically, without introducing potentially harmful chemicals.</p>
<p>If the mulch doesn&#8217;t do the trick, try using weed guarding products to make sure the weeds leave your garden alone. Don&#8217;t worry, even if this doesn&#8217;t stop the weeds at first. Gardening is a constant project, so you&#8217;re going to experience setbacks every now and then.</p>
<p>Water Appropriately</p>
<p>Overwatering is just as dangerous as underwatering, because plants that remain wet for long periods of time are more likely to pick up disease. The best bet for good watering is to simply do it by hand, hitting the areas where the plants are planted &#8212; not any areas surrounding the plants.</p>
<p>A good alternative to doing this by hand involves buying those irrigation systems, which will utilize a neat dripping technology to make sure that water is distributed evenly.</p>
<p>Taking Care Of Your Raised Bed Garden</p>
<p>Though raised bed gardening actually requires little maintenance, there are still things you have to stay on top of as a gardener. First, obviously you need to water your plants as necessary, being careful not to overdo it. Next, try turning the soil over periodically, adding in new organic matter as you go.</p>
<p>In the event that disease gets a foothold in your garden, empty the bed and replace the soil with all new soil/compost/sand mixture and reseat your plants. It&#8217;s also important to keep an eye on your garden and make sure it&#8217;s not tipping over time.</p>
<p>Raised bed gardening is a simple form of gardening that allows people with little or no experience to indulge themselves in a beautiful accessory for their lawn that will attract attention for years.</p>
<p>By following the tips above, you&#8217;ll keep your garden beautiful and secure &#8212; for the plants and you, as the owner.</p>
<p>They&#8217;re beautiful and they grow great tasting veggies &#8212; why delay the installing of <a href="http://gardeningtechnology.com">raised garden beds</a> in your back garden? Learn more about <a href="http://gardeningtechnology.com">raised bed gardening</a> and how you can transform your garden into the gossip topic of the neighborhood. Buy raised bed gardening kits, equipment and supplies only from verified online sellers.</p>
<p>categories: raised garden beds,organic,gardening,landscaping,home improvement,home and family,hobbies,reference and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/redirect?link_code=ur2&amp;camp=1789&amp;tag=httpwwwmusi0a-20&amp;creative=9325&amp;path=external-search%3Fsearch-type=ss%26keyword=education%26index=blended"  class="alinks_links" onclick="return alinks_click(this);"  style="padding-right: 13px; background: url(http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/wp-content/plugins/alinks/images/external.png) center right no-repeat;" title="click here to view other educational rescources" rel="external">education</a><img class="amazon_image" src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=httpwwwmusi0a-20&amp;l=ur2&amp;o=1" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" />,stress management,environmental,feng shui</p>
]]></content:encoded>
			<wfw:commentRss>http://thomasthetrainfansite.com/blog/soil-and-plant-choices-for-raised-bed-gardening/feed/</wfw:commentRss>
		<slash:comments>0</slash:comments>
		</item>
	</channel>
</rss>

