Make A Luau Soda Holder

Tiki masks makegreat Luau decorations.

The satisfying glow of tiki torches illuminates the yard, grass skirts flit around the tables. Tiki-man totem poles and hula girls are ready to welcome guests with colorful hibiscus flowers, jungle foliage and leis. The party area looks smashing, but have you thought about drink holders? Complete the luau party scene with tiki mask soda holders for guests to use and take home as favors.

Instructions

1. Put a drink can inside the can cooler. Measure the height and length around your can cooler with the measuring tape. Cut out a piece of the paper sack 1 inch taller and 1 inch wider than the measurements of the insulated can holder.

2. Cut 1-inch slits 1/2 inch apart all along one long side of the piece of paper sack, making a fringe. Mark the center of the paper right under the fringe. Draw a very wide, flat V shape 3 inches wide and 3/4 inch tall in the center of the length of paper, right under the fringe, with the permanent marker.

3. Draw over the V a few times to make a thick, bulky unibrow. Draw a line downward from the bottom center of the V, and then draw a diamond at the bottom to finish the nose. Draw a rectangle below the diamond as wide and twice as tall as the unibrow.

4. Draw teeth inside the rectangle on the top and bottom to make teeth in the mouth. Fill in the rest of the space in the mouth with black marker. Draw a pointy-ended egg on each side of the nose, tilting each one downward from the outer edge of the unibrow to the middle of the diamond at the tip of the nose.

5. Draw two filled-in dots in the pointy eggs to finish the eyes. Draw x's, +'s or stripes on the rest of the paper that isn't the tiki face. Crumple up the paper into a tiny ball. Then uncrumple and re-crumple. Repeat two to three times to create a lot of texture on your drawing.

6. Draw a bead of hot glue around the bottom of the can cooler. Attach the bottom, straight edge of your drawing onto the bead of hot glue all the way around the can cooler. Draw another bead of hot glue up the back of the can cooler, pressing the paper to it. Draw another bead of hot glue on top of the hot-glued paper, and glue down the other end.

7. Draw a bead of hot glue around the top outside edge of the can cooler, just below the fringe, and attach the top edge of the drawing to the can cooler. Mix two tbsp. school glue with 1/2 tsp. brown craft paint Paint the glue-paint mixture over the paper tiki drawing, then dry with a hair dryer.

Tags: bead glue, bead glue around, glue around, another bead, another bead glue, downward from

Build A Cinder Block Bbq Pig Pit

Build a Cinder Block BBQ Pig Pit

Cinder block fire pits can be put together in couple of hours and easily disassembled when the barbecue is over. Cinder block barbecues are convenient because you can size them to the pig, enjoy a barbecue without spending a lot of money on equipment and barbecue as a renter without having to worry about property damage. The size of your pit will depend on the type of pig you get. Pigs can range from 65 pounds to 165 pounds, and a traditional suckling pig should weigh no more than 20 pounds. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

1. Measure the length and width of the pig to determine what size your cinder block pig pit needs to be. The pit will be rectangular-shaped and should be at least 6 inches longer than your pig on all four sides.

2. Purchase enough cinder blocks to cover the dimensions of your fire pit, making sure you have enough to go three layers up. Also purchase a sheet of flame-retardant metal that's the same size as your fire pit. You'll place this on the grass to prevent fire damage.

3. Locate a flat spot of ground away from any buildings or gardens. Make an outline in the grass using string; this is where you'll place your cinder blocks. Place your sheet of flame-retardant metal on the ground. If your yard is concrete, you can omit the sheet of metal.

4. Lay the cinder blocks on top of the metal, going all the way around until you have one even, U-shape. Leave one of the short sides open so you can easily add charcoal while the fire is going. Once the fire is going, cover the hole with a metal trash can lid to prevent flames or ash from escaping. Pull the lid aside when you need to add fuel.

5. Place the second layer slightly offset, so that one cinder block rests on the intersection of two blocks below it, with one-half of the second layer block on top of each of the bricks below it.

6. Place the third layer in the same manner as the first layer.

7. Add your grill rack on top of the fire pit. If you can't find a grill rack that's as long as your fire pit, tie several smaller racks together using fireproof metal twine.

Tags: cinder blocks, size your, your fire, Build Cinder, Build Cinder Block

Get Discount Allinclusive Vacation Packages

The definition of an all-inclusive vacation package varies based on the lodging and destination you choose. Some resorts include everything--activities, alcohol and food and transportation to the hotel; cruises only include on-board entertainment and food; and some hotels may interpret "all-inclusive" to mean meals only (no beverages, activities or transportation). Make sure you carefully understand your intended destination's definition of "all-inclusive" and begin your hunt for good deals.

Instructions

1. Check out last-minute deals. There are varieties of websites that specialize exclusively in such packages; type "last minute vacations" in your favorite search engine to see a host of online providers. Keep in mind that cruises cannot be booked truly last minute; most cruise lines require that you book at least 2 weeks before the ship departs. Land-based resorts usually allow booking up to the date of departure. Cruise lines and hotels are usually willing to sell rooms that would have otherwise been empty at reduced rates.

2. Visit individual all-inclusive resorts' websites. Many run specials for a variety of reasons, and they do not always list those specials on websites other than their own. Examples of specials include "2-for-1" deals; stay a certain number of nights; get a night free; or spa, beverage or resort credit bonuses.

3. Travel during the off-season. One of the cheapest times to visit an all-inclusive in the Caribbean is during the months of July through November. Of course, this is hurricane season, but many resorts offer a storm guarantee--if a hurricane comes along during your stay, you receive a free stay at a later time. Consider booking a cruise during the school year as opposed to the summer break or holidays.

4. Participate in hotel rewards programs. Many resorts provide perks for frequent guests, such as reduced rates for multiple stays or even free nights. Even hotels that are not traditionally thought of as all-inclusive, such as the Marriott chain, offer all-inclusive dining packages that can be redeemed using frequent traveler points. Check out your favorite hotel chain to see if it offers loyalty programs and/or all-inclusive package options.

5. Book a package deal. Travel sites such as Expedia and Travelocity, if you book a rental car, flight and hotel at the same time, you may receive greater discounts than if you booked these services separately. These multi-booking discounts apply to all-inclusive resorts as well as traditional hotels and cruises.

Tags: all-inclusive resorts, definition all-inclusive, last minute, reduced rates, your favorite

Create Your Own '80s Invitations

Create Your Own '80s Invitations

Theme parties tend to be a hit with party guests. One of the most popular theme parties for Generation Xers and teens is an '80s theme party. In addition to '80s music and decorations, you can create your own '80s party invitations to get your invitees excited from the moment they open the invitation. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Open up the Microsoft Paint application on your computer (or similar drawing application). Use this program to draw geometric shapes and squiggles. Use bright, eye-catching colors such as neon pink, neon green and neon orange--all popular colors of the '80s. Put these shapes just around the edge of the invitation.

2. Find images of '80s icons, from '80s television shows, movies and music on Wikimedia commons or from your own photos from home. You can also find pictures of products that were popular in the '80s. Resize these images using a photo editing application (see Resources).

Some examples of '80s icons are movies like Footloose and Back to the Future, musicians like Cyndi Lauper and The Cure, television stars like Kirk Cameron and "Urkel," and products like Rubik's Cube.

3. Cut and paste these images so that they fit between the geometric shapes, like a collage.

4. Open your computer's word processing application to create the party invitation's information. For example, type out the location, time, and phone number where invitees can R.S.V.P.

For added impact, use an '80s-style font, such as a "Back to the Future" font for your invitation (see Resources).

5. Print out the invitations. Print the images on the front of the invitations, then open them to print out the party information on the inside of the card.

Tags: Back Future, Create Your, Create Your Invitations, geometric shapes, these images, your computer, Your Invitations

Make A Blue Hawaiian Cocktail

A Blue Hawaiian sunset

The Blue Hawaiian is a cocktail that includes a fairly extensive ingredient list and necessitates some hardware to produce it properly. It makes up for these cumbersome aspects by being one of the better cocktails you're ever likely to taste. It is, for all intents and purposes, a Hawaiian sunset at the beach that's served frozen in a glass. Here's make your own Blue Hawaiian. Add this to my Recipe Box.

Instructions

Making Your Own Blue Hawaiian

1. Fill your pint glass about half full with ice.

2. Dump the ice from the pint glass into your blender.

3. Add the coconut-flavored rum, blue Curacao, pineapple juice and cream of coconut to the blender.

4. Place the blender's lid firmly on top and blend the mixture on high until it is completely smooth and uniform.

5. Pour the mixture into your pint glass.

6. Garnish with a slice of pineapple on the rim of the glass and a maraschino cherry on top of the Blue Hawaiian.

Tags: Blue Hawaiian, pint glass, your pint glass, Hawaiian sunset, into your, your pint

House Party Decorating Ideas

Balloons are a great, upbeat decorating idea

House parties are a fun way to socialize, dance, and have fun without the pressures of being in a crowded bar or club, or the expense of renting another venue. House parties can be thrown at the last minute, and decorating is easy if you know the ways to dress up your space. Does this Spark an idea?

Entryway

An often-overlooked area of party décor is the entrance to your house or apartment. If you have an area outside the entryway, you can utilize that space as well, or you can just decorate the interior of the entrance. One way to do this is to hang a colorful beaded curtain in the doorway for guests to walk through. You can also line the exterior of the door and the shrubbery around the doorway with white lights, and you can even use white lights to line the sidewalk leading to your doorway if you have the supplies. If your party is themed, or if it's being thrown for a specific event, you can post a sign on the door that reads, "Welcome to Jill's Luau," or "Welcome to Jenna's Birthday Party!" If you have a house that is hard to find, you can always use balloons to mark the correct house or entrance by tying them to a mailbox or street sign.

Tables and Bar

You can utilize the table and bar at your party to add to the ambiance of the room. If you are having a theme party, such as a luau, you can place colorful drink umbrellas, straws, glasses, and napkins at the bar. You can use a brightly colored flower centerpiece on the food table, or even a bowl of brightly colored fruits or vegetables. If you are having a birthday party, or a party in honor of someone, you can place pictures or a collage of the guest of honor on the food table or near the bar for people to look at while they serve themselves.

Dance Floor

Even though you are hosting a party at home, it is likely that guests will eventually want to dance, especially if you are playing upbeat music and serving alcohol. Therefore, you will need to establish a space as a dance floor, or at least clear enough space so that the mingling area can become the dance floor later. Move all large furniture against the walls so that people will have room to move around. This will help in opening up the room for the party anyway, and it will give people room to move when they are ready. If you have old vinyl records or CD cases, you can hang them on the walls to add to the "music" theme, as well. You can also drape white lots across the ceiling combined with sheer fabric, and then turn off the overhead lights for a creative lighting effect. You can set mood lighting by replacing a regular light bulb with a colored light bulb, and you can even buy disco balls at places like Spencer's Gifts.

Tags: brightly colored, dance floor, food table, House parties, light bulb, room move

Hints For "Nancy Drew Ghost Dogs Of Moon Lake"

"Nancy Drew: Ghost Dogs of Moon Lake" is the seventh entry in the "Nancy Drew Adventure" series. The games, available on a variety of platforms, are produced by HerInteractive, and each title features a different mystery that you, playing as the famous female detective Nancy Drew, must solve. "Ghost Dogs of Moon Lake" places Nancy at a supposedly haunted cabin where she must figure out the truth behind the strange happenings. You may need hints for several difficult puzzles that must solve to complete the game successfully.

The Rottweiler Dog Puzzle

Inside a cabinet, above the sofa, are four dog statues. All of the dogs move except for one, and Nancy mentions that she will need sandpaper to fix it. Later on in the game, one of the characters will supply the sandpaper to Nancy. Once you have the sandpaper, you can fix the stuck statue, so all four can turn. The direction of the statue is determined by the poem and the coo-coo clock, which are located in the cabin as well.

Fixing the Boat

Nancy must fix the small boat by the lake to travel to the other locations in the game. She will need a bucket to empty the water out of the boat which is found under the water pump on the side of the cabin. Once the water is emptied out, you find the screwdriver on the bottom of the boat. Opening the motor engine reveals that you need a spark plug to make the boat work, which Red Knott will provide to your character. With the spark plug placed into the engine, you have to tighten the screws according to the instructions located on the underside of the engine's lid. Once the screws are in the correct place, be sure to place the life jacket into your inventory to keep Nancy safe.

Roman Numeral Files

At the ranger station, Nancy will be asked to place a drawer of files into the correct numerical order. The only problem is that the files are labeled using Roman numerals. To decipher the number, you can go to the computer located in the ranger station. The information provided here should help you in determining the correct order. Once you complete this, be sure to check out a few of the files, as they have some important and interesting information in them.

The Well Room

Nancy will find herself in a well room at the end of the game. She must turn the wheels on the wall in the right direction to drain the water. One of the wheels is missing, and you'll see it lying on the floor. You must reconnect the wheel using the screwdriver. Figuring out which way to turn the wheels once the missing wheel is reattached is basically trial and error. You can check the water gauge nearby to see whether your action is causing the water level to rise or fall. The water level must fall to complete this puzzle correctly.

Tags: Nancy Drew, Dogs Moon, Dogs Moon Lake, Ghost Dogs, Ghost Dogs Moon, Moon Lake, complete this

Design A Backyard Tiki Hut

Backyard tiki huts or bars bring a bit of the islands to your summer parties. The structure is simple, and there are many ways you can accessorize your tiki hut depending on your style. Before you build your hut, carefully plan out the design. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Scope out a location in your backyard for your tiki hut. A patio provides a good base, and it makes sense to locate it in a corner or against a wall to provide a backdrop for the bar. You can also create a freestanding tiki bar. Make sure you choose a location with level ground, and measure the area to determine how large you can build your tiki bar.

2. Decide what kind of base, or bar, you want for your tiki hut. You can re-purpose an old bar or use a sturdy table, or build your own platform. If you are the do-it-yourself type or have a very specific design in mind for your tiki hut, you can build a base out of two-by-fours and cover it with sheets of plywood. Bamboo fencing or matting is commonly used as an exterior cover for the bar. You can also build the structure from bamboo poles, which are tied together at the ends. Veneered plywood is an adequate surface for the bar top.

3. Determine the design for the roof of your tiki hut. The roof is the most identifiable element for a tiki bar, so make sure you achieve an authentic look. You can purchase pre-made tiki roofs, or create your own by using thatching. Unless you possess thatching skills, nail the thatching in thick layers to a wooden frame.

The roof will need supports, and bamboo poles are the most common choice. Depending on your roof design, you may need several supports. You can build an umbrella-style roof with a single support, or a longer structure that is held up at each end by bamboo poles.

4. Add some personality to your tiki hut design by selecting authentic accessories. Tiki masks, mugs and statues as well as tropical flowers, tiki torches and candles add atmosphere. A must-have tiki accessory is a blender and book of tiki drink recipes.

Tags: your tiki, bamboo poles, build your

Hotels Near Bob Hall Pier

Bob Hall Pier is located on South Padre Island, which is in south Texas. This sprawling beach town is a major tourist attraction -- thousands of people flock to its white beaches and warm temperatures. The Bob Hall Pier offers activities such as fishing and sightseeing, while the beaches around have surfing and swimming.

Sheraton South Padre Island Beach Hotel and Condominum

The Sheraton at South Padre Island features 251 guestrooms and condominiums. This hotel has a 6,000-square-foot swimming pool, which is claimed to be the largest in South Texas. The Sheraton is near many South Padre Islands attractions such as the beach, Bob Hall Pier and nightlife. The Sheraton South Padre features activities such as volleyball, para-sailing, horseback riding and wave running. The front desk is available 24 hours a day. Complimentary wireless Internet access is available in all guest rooms.

Isla Grande Hotel

The Isla Grand Hotel is centrally located in South Padre Island and is close to Bob Hall Pier. This hotel features 128 cabana rooms and 65 two-bedroom condominiums. The cabana rooms can comfortably sleep four people, while the condos can sleep up to six. This hotel features multiple pools and tennis courts and has beachfront property. The front desk is available 24 hours a day and the hotel has a business center. Volleyball, arts and crafts and many other activities are scheduled at Isla Grand.

Super 8 South Padre

The Super 8 in South Padre is one block from the beach and the bay and close to the Bob Hall Pier. This hotel features 66 rooms and provides free wireless Internet access. Suites with a Jacuzzi and kitchenette are available. Children under the age of 17 stay free with an adult. The hotel has a pool and free continental breakfast is available to the guests daily. Pets are allowed at this hotel. Special rates are available during the winter.

Padre South Hotel

The Padre South Hotel is directly on the beach near the Bob Hall Pier. This hotel features efficiency rooms that can sleep up to four and two-bedroom suites that can sleep up to six. The front desk is available 24 hours a day and each room has cable television. The pool features a large deck that overlooks the Gulf. Free wireless Internet access is available in all of the rooms. Rooms all have an ocean view.

Tags: South Padre, Hall Pier, hotel features, Padre Island, South Padre Island, This hotel features

Hotels In Paris On Boulevard St Michel

St. Michel is a major street in the Latin Quarter section of Paris.

Paris abounds with hotels to accommodate visitors from around the world who flock to the Left Bank or the Latin Quarter, the home of the Sorbonne and Parthenon. A short walk across the Seine River are the Louvre and Notre Dame Cathedral. The area is filled with students, artists, bookstores and cafes where famous people once frequented. St. Michel is one of the major thoroughfares and offers hotels to suit individual needs and budgets.

Best Western Premier Royal Saint Michel

Hotel Royal, which is part of the Best Western Organization, is in the Latin Quarter near the Seine River and is conveniently located near Metro-Saint Michel. This gives visitors access to popular sites on the Left Bank. It boasts of brand new decor, is air-conditioned and sound proofed and has a balcony. It provides a hairdryer, cable satellite TV, minibar, coffee maker and other convenient amenities. Internet access is available for the guests.

Best Western Premier Royal Saint Michel

3 Boulevard Saint-Michel

Saint Michel, Paris 75005

800 780 7234 in US and Canada

premier-royal-saint-michel.com

Hotel Cluny Square

Hotel Cluny Square is a fashionable three-star hotel on the Left Bank at the intersection of Saint Michel and Saint Germaine boulevards. It has a lounge in the lobby, an elevator and a travel agency for its guests. Babysitting is available. There is public parking nearby.

Hotel Cluy Square

21 Boulevard Saint-Michel

Saint Michel, Paris 75005

33(0)1 43 54 21 39

cluny-paris-hotel.com

Hotel De Suez

This hotel is a two-star, family-owned hotel covering 6 floors and has a lift. The rooms are decorated with light colours but without fanfare. The hotel is at the heart of the Latin Quarter and is accessible to the area's major sights. Breakfast is served on the ground floor or in your room. TV, Internet services and Wi-Fi are offered in each room. Public parking is available nearby.

Hotel De Suez

31 Boulevard Saint-Michel,

Saint Michel, Paris 75005

hoteldesuezparis.com

33(0) 15310 3400

Hotel Dacia-Luxembourg

This three-star hotel consists of 38 rooms. The rooms have antique furniture, air-conditioning, satellite television and Wi-Fi. A continental breakfast is served in the dining room, which is located in a century vaulted cellar with stone walls. You also have the option of having breakfast served in your bedroom.The lounge contains armchairs where visitors can read the daily newspapers.

Hotel Dacia-Luxembourg

41 Boulevard Saint-Michel

Saint Michel, Paris 75005

3 1 53 10 27 77

hoteldacia.com

Observatoire Luxembourg

This boutique hotel has a Parisian brasserie on the premises. It offers authentic French cuisine served on a terrace. The rooms are air-conditioned and include TV, a minibar and safe. Buffet breakfast is served daily. Also available are banquet facilities, a game room, a car rental desk and an airport shuttle.

Observatoire Luxembourg

107 Boulevard Saint-Michel

Saint Michel, Paris 75005

33 0146341012

observatoireluxembourg.com

Tags: Saint Michel, Boulevard Saint-Michel, Boulevard Saint-Michel Saint, Michel Paris, Michel Paris 75005

Create A Rapping Studio

Before signing with a major record label, Grammy-winning artist Eminem produced his own music.

Hip-hop is a genre filled with performers who hail from humble beginnings. Popular artists like Eminem and Wiz Khalifa are known for their ingenuity and ability to use limited resources to create opportunities for themselves. That's why homemade rap studios have sprung up all over the United States in recent years--the power is in the music. With a little know-how and ambition, you can create your own high-quality recording studio in almost no time at all.

Instructions

1. Purchase a desktop computer or laptop with a good music production program. There are a number of simple-to-use, inexpensive programs available, such as Apple's "GarageBand" or "Audacity" for Windows. Your computer should have ports for audio cables and instruments.

2. Purchase an external microphone and microphone stand. Internal microphones on most computers are insufficient for recording high-quality tracks. Purchase several different brands to see which works best for you.

3. Purchase a strong set of monitor headphones. They should offer deep bass and a wide dynamic range to pick up all the nuances in your recordings. Headphones provide producers with better performance than external speakers.

4. Set up a self-contained area such as a closet or small bedroom to use for the studio. Soundproof the room to eliminate outside noises that could negatively effect the quality of your recordings. Attach Styrofoam insulation to all walls and ceilings, then add a layer comprised of the bottom halves of egg cartons above that.

5. Furnish the studio with a couch and enough chairs accommodate several artists at one time. Make sure it's comfortable, but ergonomic. Add posters and artwork of famous rap artists to create a "rap" vibe.

Tags: your recordings

Become A Licensed Captain

Become a Licensed Captain

There are legal requirements for people who take paying passengers on a boat equipped with a motor.

Instructions

1. Document 360 days under way. A day should be at least 4 hours, and you can't get more than one day in 24 hours.

2. Contact your closest U.S. Coast Guard Regional Exam Center. The government section of your phone book should have a listing. If not, check the USCG Web site (uscg.mil).

3. Request an application.

4. Complete all required portions of the application, including a physical exam and drug test.

5. Study appropriate exam topics. Experience alone could never prepare you for the technical aspects of a USCG license exam. Take a prep course, get a book or download exam questions from the Web site.

6. Apply for an examination appointment. It will take the better part of a day to sit for the exam. Don't plan anything else on exam day.

7. Get your exam results and a copy of your new license.

Tags: Become Licensed, Become Licensed Captain, Licensed Captain

Make A Tiki Lamp

Empty wine bottles can be recycled to make outside lighting.

In 1934 Earnest Raymond Beaumont Gantt (a.k.a. Don the Beachcomber) opened a Polynesian-themed restaurant in Hollywood, California. According to the website QuesTiki, it became known as the first "tiki" bar in the U.S. The Polynesian style decor featured tiki carvings, masks and flaming bamboo tiki torches. You can bring the South Seas culture into your own backyard with tropics-inspired décor, like a tiki torch lamp made from an empty wine bottle. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Wrap the thread seal tape tightly around the half-inch end of the coupling to create a smooth, flat surface. Place it into the opening of the bottle to check whether it fits without falling in. Wrap tape around the coupling until you have a snug fit.

2. Push the wick through the bottom of the coupling until it sticks out of the top by one-fourths of an inch. Place a funnel into the wine bottle and pour in the torch oil. Push the coupling and wick into the top of the wine bottle and twist it securely into place.

3. Pour the plastic ice cubes or clear gravel into the wine bucket, filling it halfway. Push the wine bottle torch into the middle of the bucket. Pour more ice cubes or clear gravel around the wine bottle until it is about three-fourths full and looks just like a wine bucket filled with ice.

4. Place the tiki lamp centerpiece on your table. Light the wick with a lighter. Move the wine bottle around in the bucket, until the torch flame shines at the best angle for lighting the table.

Tags: wine bottle, into wine, clear gravel, coupling until, cubes clear, cubes clear gravel

Decorate For A Child'S Monkey Birthday Party

A monkey party is a fun way to celebrate a young child's birthday. With a little creativity, decorating can enhance the mood and setting of the party. Adding palm trees and other types of animals make the atmosphere more of a jungle. While a monkey cake, party ware, and favors round out the monkey theme, Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

Decorating For a Monkey Party

1. Create a jungle atmosphere by covering the entrance to the party with brown and green crepe paper vines. Guests will know they are entering the jungle area as they pass through. Hang vines around the party room as well.

2. Make simple jungle trees by filling green balloons with helium. Tie with brown or black curling ribbon and attach to a base. Guests can walk through these balloon trees to enhance the jungle feel.

3. Populate your jungle with inflatable monkeys. These can be bought by the dozen at party supply sites. Using one jumbo monkey at the entrance can wow your guests. Later, these inflatables can become party favors for the guests.

4. Make your jungle even more dense with inflatable palm trees or hanging shimmering palm trees. An inflatable palm tree can also be practical since one is available for purchase with a drink cooler as the base (see orientaltrading.com).

5. Drape a dark green cloth over the food table and use monkey-themed napkins, plates, and utensils.

6. Decorate the food table even more with monkey cups, palm tree and monkey toothpicks in cheese cubes or sandwiches, and a monkey cake or cupcakes. Add a fruit centerpiece with bananas and oranges.

7. Hang a monkey pinata at the party and fill with small monkey-themed prizes such as bubbles, tattoos. playing card sets and other novelty toys. These can be bough in bulk at party supply stores or websites.

Tags: palm trees, even more, food table, inflatable palm, monkey cake, palm tree, party supply

Cut Out A Large Star Shape When You Don'T Have A Pattern

You can use silver wrapping paper to make a large star.

You can cut a large star shape from any size paper without a pattern by using an uncomplicated folding and cutting technique. To make a large star, use wrapping paper from a roll. Silver wrapping paper, found in the wedding section of a card shop, will be perfect for this large star, which can be used for wall decorations in a child's star-themed bedroom. You can also glue two matching stars together with a glue stick and hang them from the ceiling with thread.

Instructions

1. Cut a piece of wrapping paper from the roll that is as long as the wrapping paper is wide, using the scissors.

2. Fold the paper square in half, from the top to the bottom. Create a sharp crease by running your fingernail along the fold.

3. Fold the paper in half again, from the top to the bottom, creating a light crease. Unfold the light crease.

4. Bring the tip of the right corner of the paper to the light crease mark at the left edge of the paper and firmly crease the fold.

5. Fold the upper left corner of the paper along the top edge of the section you previously folded.

6. Turn the paper so the folded point is at the top. Fold the paper in half vertically, matching up the left and right edges.

7. Cut the paper with the scissors to create an equal-sided triangle, with the top folded corner located at the right edge. Unfold the paper to see the star.

Tags: wrapping paper, Fold paper, light crease, corner paper, fold Fold

Clean Smith & Wesson Grips

Keeping a clean grip not only looks good but is also a safety precaution.

Whether your Smith & Wesson grip is made of wood or plastic, the cleaning process is the same for all brands of firearms. After a few days at the range, the grip of your Smith & Wesson can collect dirt and oil from your hands as well as gunpowder from shooting. A dirty grip can lead to serious issues while shooting. If the shooter's hand cannot grip the gun soundly, it could slip from his hand during the recoil of a shot. Cleaning your Smith & Wesson grip will prevent this issue.

Instructions

1. Remove the grip handles by removing the two screws on each side that hold them in place.

2. Put a quarter-sized dab of laundry detergent on a wash rag and wet it.

3. Wash dirt and grime from the grips using the wash rag.

4. Clean grip checkering and tight spaces with a toothbrush.

5. Rinse any excess soap from the grips once clean.

6. Dry the grips thoroughly before screwing them back on.

7. Wipe the grips with a small amount of oil or furniture polish to protect them.

Tags: Smith Wesson, your Smith Wesson, your Smith, from grips, Smith Wesson grip, Wesson grip

Advertise Your Restaurant

You can offer special deals to increase interest in your restaurant.

With so many dining choices available it can be challenging for a restaurant to differentiate itself from its competitors. No matter what type of restaurant you own, you will most likely need to advertise to increase your establishment's visibility to the general public and compete with other businesses offering similar fare. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of advertising methods you can employ to get the word out about your restaurant.

Instructions

1. Utilize social media to get the word out about your restaurant. Millions of people use social media platforms such as Twitter and Facebook nearly everyday, allowing you to reach a potentially large audience. For example, if you own a pizza restaurant, run a campaign on Facebook offering a free cheese pizza to each user that "likes" your page. This could also increase new online traffic to your official website and possibly foot traffic in your restaurant. Start a Yelp page where customers can leave reviews of your restaurant. Open a Twitter account for your restaurant and "tweet" regularly under the account name. Encourage fans to "retweet" some of your tweets to win giveaways or special coupons. The more people that "retweet" you, the more public exposure your restaurant is likely to get.

2. Sign up with popular coupon services such as Living Social and Groupon. Many of these services are national, but most also have built solid local followings, especially in and around metropolitan areas. Offering a daily deal for your restaurant through a popular coupon site can increase visitors who may have never heard of your restaurant before, or who may have needed an incentive to try it.

3. Paint your front windows with advertising messages. The windows and walls at the front of a restaurant that overlook a street or sidewalk are prime real estate when it comes to attracting new clientele who may walk or drive by. Hire a professional artist to paint an interesting, relevant scene on your front windows. For example, if you own an Italian restaurant, a painting of a Tuscan countryside may be appropriate. Incorporate your web address and special deals such as a happy hour specials and times within the painting.

4. Sign up to participate in local food fairs and festivals. Local events often bring the community together, and can be a way to increase interest or spark curiosity about your restaurant. Depending on what kind of event it is, be prepared to serve free samples of some of your menu's best items at your food booth. Display menus on your booth counter and encourage tasters to take a menu home. Hold a business card drawing at your booth in which passersby can drop their business cards in a fishbowl for a chance to win a free dinner for two.

5. Assess your demographic and decide whether it is worth it to place an advertisement on television. Television ads can be very expensive, so it may not be worth purchasing one unless you are sure the type of customer you want to attract will see it. Create paper surveys that you can print out and leave with your customers' restaurant tabs. Survey current customers on their television-watching habits to see if that type of ad would speak to your demographic. The same can be done with radio, newspaper or magazine advertisements.

Tags: your restaurant, about your, about your restaurant, your restaurant, front windows

Create A Street Map

When you need a fun activity to do with your preschooler or grade schooler, your mind probably goes blank. Healthy entertainment for kids tends to be either extremely messy, too difficult or "boring" to your child. Here's a great alternative that lets your child explore her neighborhood, while teaching her about directions, symbols and measurements.

Instructions

1. Bring the paper and pencil outside on a walk with your child. Point out the numbers on your door or mailbox, and ask him to read them to you. Then have him find the numbers on your neighbors' doors or mailboxes.

2. Discuss the shape of your street with your child. Is it straight or curvy? Is it on a hill? On a cul-de-sac? Near a dead end?

3. Spread the paper out on a large safe area, such as a driveway. (Make sure the driveway is blocked so that a car cannot pull in during this project.) Encourage your child to draw your house and to label it with your address. Then encourage her to draw your street and your neighbors' houses, and to label them with their addresses as well.

4. Walk with your child to a nearby intersection that includes a street sign. Have your child read the street sign; if he cannot read yet, read it to him. Encourage him to label your street on the map.

5. For a younger child, encourage her to draw additional pictures on the map. She may draw a neighbor's dog in the yard, some pretty flowers or a swing set that she's played on.

6. For an older child, continue on your walk and point out different street signs. Encourage him to add these streets to the map, as well as other landmarks he sees along the way.

Tags: your child, with your, with your child, your street, draw your, encourage draw, numbers your

Make A Hula Skirt For Preschool

Make a multi-colored hula skirt for a colorful preschool luau celebration.

Make an adorable hula skirt for a preschooler's Halloween party or luau-themed celebration from some crepe paper. Make the costume accessory last for hours of pretend play afterwards by creating a ribbon waistband for a little bit of extra strength. You can make hula skirts for use at a preschooler's birthday celebration, or you can cut the strips of crepe paper ahead of time and have the party guests assemble the skirts as a party favor they can take home with them.

Instructions

1. Cut a 40-inch-long piece of 1/2-inch-wide ribbon.

2. Measure the circumference of the preschooler's waist and make marks on the center of the ribbon to keep track of the actual waist. The excess lengths of ribbon are used to tie the skirt onto the preschooler.

3. Measure the circumference of the preschooler's waist and make marks on the center of the ribbon to keep track of the actual waist. The excess lengths of ribbon are used to tie the skirt onto the child.

4. Apply a little bit of glue to one end of each strip of crepe paper and press it against the back side of the ribbon. Alternatively, you can staple each piece of crepe paper to the skirt instead.

5. Wrap the hula skirt around the preschooler's waist and tie the excess lengths of ribbon in a bow.

Tags: crepe paper, excess lengths, excess lengths ribbon, hula skirt, lengths ribbon

Decorate Goody Bags

Decorate Goody Bags

Birthday parties are not complete without the goody bag. Some choose to prepare the goody bags prior to the party and hand out them out at the end. Others make decorating goody bags part of the birthday celebration. Decorating goody bags allow creativity and imagination to shine through. Goody bags are also popular for holidays like Halloween. Prepare these goody bags ahead of time with the help of your family. Does this Spark an idea?

Instructions

1. Follow the theme. Decorate goody bags that coincide with the party's theme such as pirates or princesses. Try decorating the bag with a ship, gold coins, princess themed stickers or a crown. Imitate a holiday theme for decorating a goody bag such as pumpkins and ghosts for Halloween or snowflakes and snowmen for the winter holidays.

2. Buy supplies. Make a list of ideas and possible decorations. Know the number of goody bags you need to make. Go to the craft store and purchase supplies such as stickers, stencils, glitter, glue, markers, crayons, paint and rubber stamps. Decide what type of goody bag to decorate such as paper bags, plastic sandwich bags or a canvas bag.

3. Start decorating. Prepare holiday goody bags, like Halloween, in advance so they are ready to give out. Use stencils to trace an appropriate design onto the bag. Color the design with markers or crayons. Write a relevant phrase such as, "Trick or Treat" or "Boo" on each goody bag. Enhance the design with stickers, stamps and glitter. Try printing stickers off the Internet using sticky labels as paper. Utilizing plastic sandwich bags for birthday goody bags allow you to write a personal message to guests. Create a design using various colored sharpies and write a message such as, "Guest name, thank you for coming to my party!"

4. Get the family involved. Preparing goody bags for holiday events takes time. Set aside an afternoon with the family to decorate goody bags. Make an assembly line where one person traces, two color and another adds embellishments like stickers or stamps. Provide snacks, drinks and music to make the afternoon more enjoyable.

5. Make it personal. Use permanent paint pens or markers to creatively write a guest's name and the year on the goody bag. Write the name and year on the bag a few days before the party, allowing guests to decorate their bags during the party. Let the birthday honoree decorate each bag or write a special message on one side before the party.

Tags: goody bags, bags allow, before party, Decorate Goody Bags, design with

Find Cheap Hotels In Maui Hawaii

Find Cheap Hotels in Maui, Hawaii. Maui's striking valleys and volcanic peaks are making it a strong competitor for the local tourist trade. Discerning travelers will find resorts and hotels of all sizes to meet their needs. Follow these steps when planning a visit to this exotic locale.

Instructions

Book Accommodations in Maui

1. Call the Maui Visitors Bureau at (800) 525-6284, or visit their Web site to book or learn about area accommodations (see Resources below).

2. Enhance your Maui vacation by reserving a vacation condo. Families, couples and groups of friends can find cheap condos inland from the expensive beachfront accommodations.

3. Consider booking cheap accommodations in surrounding islands and commuting to Maui. The island is close to Molokai, Lanai and Oahu, which feature a wide range of hotels and inns. Maui is close enough to all three that the commute via plane or ferry is short.

4. Book cheap accommodations in Lahaina, Maui's biggest city. Travelers looking for either major hotels or quaint local accommodations will find many choices in Lahaina.

Know Maui

5. Navigate the beaches along Maui's coastline. Many tourists flock to Lahaina's beaches, neglecting those in Wailua and Hana. Every beach town offers a wide range of services, shops and perspectives on Hawaiian life.

6. Enjoy one of the most beautiful sights in nature: humpback whales. The whales travel from Alaska to escape cold weather and mate near the Maui coastline. Travelers can watch these beautiful creatures from beaches and outlooks throughout Maui.

7. Equip yourself with the right clothing for a Maui vacation. Summer clothing like shorts and sandals are necessary to keep cool in the warm, humid climate.

8. Learn about Hawaiian history at Kalaupapa National Historical Park, which commemorates the island's former status as a refuge for leprosy patients.

Travel in Maui

9. Start your Maui vacation by flying into international airports in Honolulu or the Big Island. Charter flights from Honolulu fly into Maui's regional airport. There are regular, cheap charter flights on Hawaiian Airlines and Island Air.

10. Diversify your Maui travel experience with a rental car or ATV. Travelers who want to reach major destinations on Maui need to use the island's paved roadways. The more adventurous tourists can use an ATV to reach inland attractions.

11. Take advantage of the cheap and regular car ferry from Honolulu to Maui. Travelers who fly into Honolulu International Airport and rent a vehicle will need to use the car ferry.

Tags: Maui vacation, your Maui, cheap accommodations, Cheap Hotels, Cheap Hotels Maui, Find Cheap, Find Cheap Hotels

Fold A Tissue Paper Flower

Make a long-lasting bouquet of flowers made from tissue paper.

Tissue paper flowers are a simple, yet colorful and festive decorations for parties and entertaining. There are many ways to make tissue paper flowers, limited only by your creativity and supplies. One way to make tissue paper flowers is by folding the tissue paper.

Instructions

1. Place four sheets of the same-size colored tissue paper on a work surface, one on top of another. Select different shades of the same color or different colors.

2. Fold your tissue paper accordion-style.

Make accordion-style folds in the tissue paper stack. Fold the colored tissue paper five times, the same way you would fold a homemade paper fan.

3. Hold the accordion-folded tissue paper in your hand. Bring the ends of the folded paper together and fold in half. Make a triangular, wavy or diagonal cut in the end of the paper where the two ends meet.

4. Place the tip of the scissors at the folded end of the tissue paper. Cut a small notch in the fold so you know where to place the flower stem.

5. Wrap one end of the pipe cleaner around the notched end of the tissue paper to put the stem in place. Cup the flower in the palm of your hand with the stem hanging down between your index and middle fingers. Use your other hand to fluff, scrunch and arrange the rest of the tissue paper to shape your flower.

Tags: tissue paper, paper flowers, colored tissue, colored tissue paper, make tissue, make tissue paper

Hotels Near Haleakala Hawaii

Haleakala, Hawaii rises over 10,000 feet above sea level.

Haleakala, meaning "House of the Sun," is part of the National Park Service in Hawaii. Sitting on approximately 30,000 acres of land, Haleakala houses the highest peak on the island of Maui. The park's myriad scenic views include dusty red volcanic landscapes rolling to down to waterfalls and tropical areas. Visitors can hike, horseback ride or visit early in the morning to catch the sunrise. Haleakala protects many endangered species, which can be seen throughout the park.

The Upcountry Bed and Breakfast

The Upcountry Bed and Breakfast, also known as the "Big Red House in Kula," claims to offer a better view of Maui from the lanais than anywhere else on the island. Each room faces the West Maui Mountains with spectacular views of the sunsets. The feel of the Hawaiian outdoors flows into the modern rooms. Amenities include a wet bar, cable TV, wireless Internet, fireplace for chilly evenings and a coffeemaker. A free DVD library is available. From the spa, in the back of the bed and breakfast, the west Maui mountains stretch out in the distance, glowing in the sunlight, creating a remarkable view. The bed and breakfast is located in Kula, on the outskirts of Haleakala National Park.

Moonlight Garden Bed and Breakfast Maui

Maui sparkles with beauty.

The Moonlight Garden Bed and Breakfast sits at the base of Mount Haleakala in the historic town of Keokea. The Makina cottage overlooks the crystal ocean waters and the West Maui Mountains. Recently renovated, keeping the 1940s Hawaiian theme alive, the cottage features a hammock on the back porch, a private bathroom, full kitchen and a washer and dryer. The Lehua Cottage also has spectacular views of the ocean and the mountains. This cottage has two rooms, a full kitchen, washer and dryer and a variety of Hawaiian art and Japanese treasures.

Maui Tradewinds

Maui is a tropical paradise.

Maui Tradewinds, an award-winning vacation resort, has two rentals to choose from. The private homes are secluded and perfect for honeymooners and families. The Star Wind, nestled among the trees, brings the coolness of Hawaii inside the rental. The rooms are spacious with vaulted ceilings, Hawaiian decor and magnificent views of the ocean in the distance. The Tradewinds suite offers a tiki garden area with a tile pathway to the spa, private views of the ocean and 1,000-square feet of living space. The popular tourist vacation rentals are located in Haiku.

Bamboo Valley Inn

Located in Haiku, just minutes from Haleakala National Park, the Bamboo Valley Inn offers two suites. Both are equipped with full kitchens, flat-screen TVs and wood-burning fireplaces. The remodeled Haleakala Suite is decorated with the West Indies feel and large picture windows letting in the morning sun. The Bamboo View Suite keeps the entertainment room stocked with games, including foosball and air hockey tables. Both suites have fully equipped kitchens, updated countertops, wireless Internet and a complimentary breakfast tray with Hawaiian coffee, breakfast bars and a variety of treats.

Tags: National Park, views ocean, Bamboo Valley, full kitchen, full kitchen washer, Garden Breakfast, Haleakala Hawaii

Draw Comics

Draw Comics

Like most things in life, comics turn out best when you spend the time to plan them ahead of time. When you draw comics, you are basically drawing a movie on paper. To keep your audience interested, you should plan your characters, action and plot line ahead of time, and then stick to your plan when drawing the comic.

Instructions

Plan Your Comics Before You Draw

1. Decide how many characters you will use in this comic. You should have a rough idea of which characters you will use before you put pencil to paper.

2. Develop a plot outline. You will need to know how you want the basic action to flow once you start plotting your frames. A frame is one square on the page of a comic.

3. Move on to plotting your comic. Plotting involves drawing rough frames on each page and placing very quick, rough sketches of the characters in them.

4. Create model sheets for the main characters. A model sheet should include a drawing of the character from two angles and contain as much detail as possible. You will refer back to this later to maintain continuity in your comic.

Draw Your Comic

5. Begin by using your ruler to draw in frames on your paper. You can refer back to your rough plotting sketches to make sure you draw the correct frame sizes and positions.

6. Draw careful outlines of your characters into the frames. Use outlines at first, so you can make adjustments later if you need to.

7. Grab your character model sheets to begin filling in costumes and faces. You want each character to have exactly the same costume and features throughout the comic. Refer to your model sheet often.

8. Review your work so far. Now is the best time to solve any lingering problems, like awkward positioning or costume inaccuracies.

Add the Finishing Touches

9. Erase any model lines or accidental marks on the comic.

10. Darken the outlines of your characters to make them stand out more clearly against the background.

11. Darken the frame lines so that the reader can easily tell where each frame ends.

12. Review your work one last time for detail and continuity.

Tags: your characters, ahead time, characters will, Draw Comics, model sheet, model sheets