Write A Rebuttal Essay

A rebuttal is a response to an article or argument that presents an opposing viewpoint. It offers you the opportunity to engage the intended audience and persuade them to look at a subject from your standpoint rather than the opposing standpoint. Political rebuttals are often seen on TV during campaign season when a commercial airs for one party and is immediately followed by a commercial from the opposing party with a reverse argument. Learn how you can write an effective rebuttal on any topic.

Instructions

1. Know the opposing viewpoint thoroughly. You can't present a convincing rebuttal without knowing exactly what it is you're opposing. An effective rebuttal should not be mere name calling, but a well-planned, systematic deconstruction of the opposing side's viewpoint.

2. Write an introduction that states the opposing viewpoint and follow it with your stance. Write a strong thesis statement that tells your audience how you intend to show the opposing viewpoint to be false, then move into the body of your rebuttal.

3. Form your rebuttal point by point. Restate each of the opposing party's claims or accusations, then follow with your rebuttal of each of these claims. Be direct and write actively. Avoid ambiguous language. This will make it appear as if you are trying to avoid key issues.

4. Avoid beginning your rebuttal by stating that everything the opposing side says is wrong or a lie. They've had their say. Now write an opposing view that negates what they've said and presents solid evidence that your audience can verify. In political campaigns, the opposing sides often paraphrase the truth or reveal something about the other party out of context to put the other party in a bad light. Avoid doing this. Base your rebuttals on full disclosure and let the audience decide.

Write A Question Letter For Any Novel Submission

Include a stamped self-addressed envelope with your query letter for the editor's reply.

You've written your novel and now you are ready to submit it to publishers. Before you mail off your manuscript, check the publisher's guidelines. Many publishers ask for a query letter before they commit to reading your entire manuscript. A query letter is like a cover letter and introduces you and your novel to a publisher. Your query letter should be short and compelling -- about one page long, with four distinct paragraphs. It should give the publisher or editor a feel for your novel and make her want to read more. If the publisher or editor likes what she sees in your query letter, she will ask you to send chapters or your entire manuscript.

Instructions

1. Include your contact details at the top of your letter, and address your letter to the right person. Do not address your query letter "To Whom it May Concern." Call the publisher or check the publisher's website to find out the name of the editor who will be dealing with your submission. Many publishers have multiple imprints and editors, so correctly address your query letter to be sure your letter gets into the right person's hands.

2. Write a short introductory paragraph summarizing your novel. The editor may read many submissions in a day, so you need to catch his attention from your first word. Write a sentence or two that briefly explain the basic plot of your book. Include the title of your novel, the genre and the word count of the manuscript -- not the page count. Think of this introductory paragraph as being the kind of description you would give of your book if you only had 30 seconds to describe it.

3. Expand on the basics of your novel in your second paragraph. Outline the plot and the major characters in compelling language. This paragraph should be a summary of your novel, much like the summaries on the backs of published novels. It should not be a point-by-point synopsis, but more of an overview of the novel. You want to engage the editor's interest and make her want to read more.

4. Include your publishing history in your third paragraph. Include information about magazines where your work has appeared, awards you have won or any books you have published. If you do not have a publishing history, include any credentials you do have that make you the best person to write this book.

5. Write a short fourth paragraph about why you are interested in publishing with this specific publisher. Add any relevant information about your book that makes it an excellent fit with the publisher. Mention that you can send the entire manuscript -- even though the editor may only ask for chapters he needs to know the novel is finished. Close the letter with a statement such as "Thank you for your time, and I look forward to hearing from you soon." Sign off and include your name and signature at the bottom of the page.

6. Include a self-addressed stamped envelope so the editor can reply to your query letter.

Write An Offer And First Chapter

When you are trying to get a piece of writing published, one of the most challenging things to do is write a proposal and first chapter. This proposal, also called a query, is the first thing a potential editor sees and needs to interest him enough to entice him to read your first chapter. Follow these tips for writing a proposal and first chapter.

Instructions

1. Research agents and editors before you begin drafting your proposal. Be sure that your query targets only those editors who publish material in the genre you are writing in. For example, sending a romance novel to an editor who focuses on horror fiction is fruitless.

2. Start your proposal with an ear-catching sentence that gives a hint about the topic your manuscript. This sentence should be quirky enough to capture the editor's attention, but not so vague that you annoy him.

3. Give specific information about your manuscript in the proposal. Let the editor know the work's length, subject matter and general theme or goal. Provide a short background on your career as a writer as well. Bullet points work well for this type of information.

4. Keep the query letter short and to the point. Editors receive a large number of proposals each week, and if you want yours to stay on the desk and out of the trash bin, try not to clutter it with excess language.

5. Select the strongest section of your manuscript to use as your first chapter. This does not necessarily have to be the portion of the work that you plan to use as the opening. Often, novels begin at a point in the story where the action is already underway, so feel free to play around with the order of your work before you choose what you will submit as the first chapter.

Write A Poem To Some Girl Named Vanessa

In structured poetry, maintaining a rhyme scheme can create quite a challenge, especially when using the subject's name. The name Vanessa, for example, is difficult to rhyme. But you can still write a poem about the lovely Vanessa; you just need to consider a few alternate forms, and possibly make a few tweaks in your verse. Here are several options for writing a poem about Vanessa.

Instructions

1. Try an exact rhyme. For this, you'll need a rhyming dictionary. In a rhyming dictionary, Vanessa will only have one exact rhyme: Contessa. You can adjust the structure of your poem so that Vanessa is used at the end of a line that is matched in the stanza---the series of poetry lines---by Contessa. So, line A ends with the word "Vanessa," and line B ends with the word "Contessa."

2. Use slant rhyme: Vanessa can be used with a word ending in a near match (known as a slant rhyme). A slant rhyme can be formal and very close to the original word, more than one word used to mimic the syllables and pronunciation of the original word, or a little slangy. It depends on what you feel comfortable writing. Sylvia Plath used slant rhyme in her poem "Admonition" by pairing the words "tongue" and "song."

"Admonition"

By Sylvia Plath

If you dissect a bird

To diagram the tongue

You'll cut the chord

Articulating song.

The rhyme is not exact; instead it is an inference meant to keep the tempo alive in the reader's mind. Likewise, you can use a soundalike word or series of words to match with Vanessa.

3. Write to Vanessa as an unnamed subject. Shakespeare wrote, "Shall I compare thee to a summer's day" in "Sonnet No. 18" without ever naming the subject.

That particular sonnet has gone down in history, and nobody knows who the subject really is. Likewise, you would write an ode to Vanessa, and the only person who would know your poem is about Vanessa would be you---and, of course, Vanessa, if you chose to share it with her.

4. Use Vanessa as the title. Write a poem about Vanessa, and don't use her name in the verse. Instead, name the poem "Vanessa."

5. Write it as an acrostic. An acrostic uses each letter of a word as the first letter of a line of poetry. So, for your poem about Vanessa, your first line would start with the letter "V," the second line would start with the letter "A," and so forth.

When you read the poem, Vanessa's name will be spelled out on the left-hand side of the page. Edgar Allen Poe successfully used this form in his poem "Elizabeth."

6. Let Vanessa be the chorus. Poetry isn't just spoken words; poetry can be translated into song. Consider using the word "Vanessa" as a chorus in your poem, or use the name to create a visual line break. In Fleetwood Mac's song "Rhiannon," Rhiannon could have proven as difficult to rhyme as Vanessa. So the band used it in the chorus instead.

7. Throw form out the window. Free-form poetry is not the ugly stepbrother of formal sonnets it has become a widely accepted form. Famous free-form poets, or poets who let content rather than form dictate the shape of their work, include Jack Kerouac, e.e. cummings and Charles Bukowski. Free-form poetry allows you to write what you think or feel about Vanessa in a more raw, unpolished way that requires no stringent form and no rhyme.

What Exactly Are Line Sketches

The use of lines represents one of the key fundamental tools for creating a drawing. Although simple in concept to make, these lowly marks have gone on to create some of the most famous line drawings in history; without lines, portraits like Pablo Picasso's "Francoise au Bandeau" couldn't exist. A well-executed line drawing can become a work of art in its own right.

Definition

A line drawing in art can be defined as a drawing which consists of only lines; the artist uses lines in such a way that the outline and primary aspects of an object emerge. Sometimes called the contour drawing, the line drawing captures the form on an object on the picture plane. Although many artists begin a drawing by making a line drawing and then adding other details like shading or color, a line drawing can also be quite detailed.

Line Qualities

Two types of line qualities exist---the static and the varied line. An artist has drawn a static line when all the lines are of the same weight and width. Using static lines in a line drawing results in a drawing in which the objects or surfaces seem solid and even. A varied line drawing is the opposite of the static line: the lines have different weights and thicknesses. Use of varied line in a line drawing creates a more dynamic drawing.

Line Direction

The direction of the lines in your line drawing serve a emotional as well as a pictorial function. An artist draws straight lines in a vertical, horizontal or diagonal direction. A line drawn in the vertical direction gives the line drawing a feeling of strength or permanence; a common example of this is a drawing of a tree. On the other hand, a horizontal line promotes a feeling of calm in drawing, because it replicates the line of the horizon or the sea. Finally, a line drawn diagonally across the picture plane creates an active, interesting drawing, because it conveys action.

Famous Line Drawing Artists

Some of the most famous artists in the world created line drawings and sketches. In addition to Picasso, artists like Henri Matisse, Eugene Delacroix, Rembrandt and Vincent Van Gogh all produced masterful line drawings. According to artist Bert Dodson in "Keys to Drawing," all artists create a type of handwriting in their drawing strokes. The way these artists draw lines are distinguishable from those other artists. Aspiring artists can attempt to copy the artist's line strokes in their own drawings. This helps not only learn how these artists made their own line art drawings, it teaches use lines more effectively in original line drawings, because it will be better understood how these artists used concepts like line direction and line quality to create master works.

Science Projects Bernoulli'S Principle

Bernoulli's principle helps explain how an airplane's wing makes the plane fly.

Bernoulli's principle describes the flow of fluids as well as how changes in speed can lead to changes in pressure. For instance, the shape of an airplane's wing causes air to travel over the top of the wing faster than under the wing, which makes the air pressure above the wing less than the pressure beneath the wing. Several activities can help students see this principle in action.

The Cardboard That Won't Fall

To do this experiment you need an empty thread spool, a thumbtack and a piece of cardboard. Stick the thumbtack through the center of the cardboard and then place the thumbtack through the bottom of the thread spool. This will keep the cardboard from moving from side to side. Blow through the top of the spool and let the cardboard go. As long as you keep blowing air through the spool, the cardboard won't fall. This is because by blowing air you have increased the air speed and thus reduced the air pressure above the cardboard.

Plastic Cups

You'll need two plastic drinking cups, two lengths of string each about one foot long, tape and a table. Attach a string to the bottom of each cup with tape, then tape the cups to the edge of the table by the strings so that they hang at the same height from the table about two inches apart. Blow air into the space between the two cups. The cups will swing together because you have decreased the air pressure between them.

The Candle

You will need a lighted candle and a large can. Place the candle behind the can. Then have a student blow on the center of the can to try to blow out the candle. Even though the can blocks the student's breath, the candle will extinguish because the air travels around the can from either side. This demonstrates that when a fluid (in this case, air) is separated by an object into two streams, its natural tendency is to join back into one stream on the other side of the barrier, just as air behaves when flowing over the wing of an airplane.

The Sheet of Paper

Take two books that are the same height and place them about 4 1/2 inches apart, then place a sheet of paper on top of the books. Using a straw, blow air gently just above the paper. Then do the same just beneath the paper. The paper will lift or drop toward whichever side has the flowing air because the flow of air has caused the air pressure to drop.

Write An Individual Statement In Art

An artist's personal statement is an essay that focuses on her and her art, addressing goals, interests and background experiences that relate to art. You'll need to write a personal statement if you are an artist who is applying for a grant or to an art school. The personal statement should not be confused with an artist's statement, as the personal statement is much more comprehensive than an artist's statement, which is often used only for marketing purposes.

Instructions

Brainstorming

1. Think about the life experiences you have had that have either led you to become an artist or that have shaped your art. Write them down. Under each experience, write three things that you remember about it. Eliminate experiences that you are unable to describe completely.

2. List your interests on another sheet of paper. Think about your interests as broadly as you can. List activities that you enjoy doing outside, inside, with friends, reading about and so forth. Narrow down your list by selecting three or four interests that represent you both honestly and in a favorable light-your statement should make you seem well rounded.

3. Consider any obstacles you have faced. Write them down. Circle the obstacles that have influenced the course of your life and your art. Cross out any obstacles that are too personal to discuss in an essay.

The Statement

4. Choose a point of view for the narrator. A first-person point of view is often appropriate for a personal statement; however, some art schools may request an essay written in the third person. Read the requirements for your personal statement carefully.

5. Craft an introduction that will set a compelling tone for your statement. An unusual fact, quotation or a strong statement about your art can help grab the reader's attention. Include a thesis statement that highlights the point of your personal statement-perhaps the reason you are compelled to apply for a grant or admission to a program.

6. Discuss your educational background. Include any art-related internships you have completed, advanced art courses you have taken and artistic projects you have participated in. You do not need to go into detail. Provide the basic facts and elaborate on the parts of your education that were the most meaningful to you and your art.

7. Write a paragraph about your interests. Perhaps you enjoy horseback riding, needlework or researching your family's genealogy. Refer to your brainstorming notes and write about how your interests initially attracted your attention and how they inspire or drive your artwork.

8. Relate significant personal experiences in the next part of your statement. Look at your brainstorming notes for ideas. Weave any obstacles you have faced into this section. By discussing the time you were injured while horseback riding, you can explain why your images of horses are dark and menacing.

Wrapping it Up

9. Write a conclusion. This is a good place to discuss your goals and what you hope to get out of the grant or program. Don't restate ideas you have already mentioned in the essay. Instead, bring your points together to demonstrate your big idea, which is your suitability for the grant or program for which you are applying. If you have not used a quotation in your introduction, you may wish to use one in your conclusion, as long as you can find one that provides a synthesis of your ideas about art.

10. Proofread your essay. Check it for spelling and grammatical errors. Ask yourself if someone reading the statement will be interested, fascinated or even entertained. Remember that your essay should make an impact in order for you to accomplish your goals.

11. Ask a teacher or a friend-one who will not flatter you-to read your personal statement and give you honest feedback. Revise your essay as needed until it is polished.

Make Metal Wire Art Wall Sculptures

Inspirational wire patterns are found everywhere.

Simple or complex, exotic or familiar, sculptures are highly individualized pieces of artwork that allow their creator to make a statement about the way he sees the world. Working with metal wire is an ideal way to make one-of-a-kind masterpieces. The wire is flexible and can normally be bent repeatedly until it looks "just right." Most metal wire is inexpensive, allowing the artist the luxury of making mistakes without having to replace costly material. Wire can be screwed, glued, stapled or welded together to give different looks to each piece. It can lie flat against a wall or jut out in three-dimensional fashion.

Instructions

1. Define your metal wire medium. Material choices range from common metals such as steel, iron, copper and zinc to more exotic and valuable metals such as gold, silver and platinum. The warm, bright red of copper might be matched with the coldness of black iron and the mellowness of yellow gold.

2. Choose the gauge, or thickness, of the wire you will use. Wire comes in diameter sizes that range from finer than human hair to an inch thick or more.

3. Pick a style for the sculpture. It can be free-standing wire with no other materials except for the attachment point to the wall, or it can be placed against and around a structural anchor such as a wooden base or backing, or a stone bottom with the wire inserted into the stone.

4. Find a shape or pattern that interests you and play around with it to see what modifications you can make that creates an attractive shape. Shape the wires to repeat the pattern or perhaps to contrast against it.

5. Use the wire to encourage the passing eye to follow a flow that leads to a surprise, or an unexpected turn that then leads somewhere else.

6. Add material as you desire to create a look. Wood and stone are rustic and imply a back-to-nature look, while plastics and shaped metals create a more urban, industrial look.

Write A 1 Page Personal Philosophy Statement

Think carefully about different facets of your life to write a personal philosophy.

Writing a personal philosophy statement is a way of asking yourself to strive to meet your own thoughtful standard of conduct. This standard is not imposed upon you externally, by others, but reflects an internal standard, which is the home of conviction. Over time, as you learn and your attitudes change, you may decide that your personal philosophy has also changed. That's okay. Periodically, rewrite your philosophy to reflect your growth. As the poet Maya Angelou said, "Now that I know better, do better."

Instructions

1. Make notes as you consider your personal thinking and practices in the light of a list of criteria that are important to you, as recommended by Ethicalwill.com. For example, you may want to think about how you relate to others, to work, to spirituality, to the planet, to material goods and money, and to conflict. Another approach would be to look at yourself with regards to big philosophical concepts, such as charity, respect, reason and autonomy.

2. Narrow down your criteria to three to five choices that best embody your core feelings about what is most important in life.

3. Write out answers as you ask yourself specific questions about your choices, and use your notes to help you think clearly. For example, you may ask yourself, "What do I believe about my role as a worker?" Or, "What do I believe charity is and how must I conduct myself to reflect my belief?"

4. Write a first draft of your essay, assembling the answers to the questions you asked yourself. Write an introductory paragraph that is brief and simple. The body of the essay will contain all the important information.

5. Use your most important thoughts as they stem from the last criteria you list as a way to summarize the essay. So, rather than writing a paragraph that says "in conclusion" and then summarizes, let the essay build up to and embody its own conclusion, which will have a more dramatic, sophisticated effect.

Write A Singular Query Letter

So you've written the next great novel and now you want to get it published. The query letter is the next step. A query letter is a letter you send to a literary agent requesting that they represent you and your novel to publishers.This article will explain the query letter process.

Instructions

Writing a Novel Query Letter

1. Get a list of literary agents you want to query. You can find a list of agents at Publisher's Marketplace. While this is a paid site, it is the best resource for all things related to the publishing world. There, you can find details on book deals, agents, and job listings, among many other items of interest.

2. Write your query letter. All over the Internet, you will find information on the "rules" of query letter writing. At the end of the day, there are no rules except to keep it short, keep it interesting and give the details about your novel.

3. Include a brief synopsis of your novel. This should read like the back of a paperback or the inside cover of a hardback novel. Basically, it is a summary of your novel. This should be short--no more than 2/3 of a double-spaced page in 12-point font, or shorter.

4. Give the agent details on your writing experience. If you don't have any, simply skip this part.

5. Give the agent details on your novel. They will want to know word count and that you are ready to send a full manuscript.

6. Query only when your novel is complete. Unless you are a published author, you should only query once your manuscript is complete and has been thoroughly edited.

7. Follow submission guidelines. Go to your desired agent's site and look up their submission guidelines. Follow these instructions carefully. If they ask only for a query letter, send only a query letter. If they ask for a query letter and the first 10 pages, send that. Agents receive hundreds of queries each week. Not following instructions exactly is the quickest way to their trash bin.

Do 80s Party Adornments

For those who grew up in the 1980s, Madonna, Rubik's Cube and the introduction of the compact disc into the mainstream are all vivid memories. Bands with wild hair and one-off hit singles with a dance beat were common. Throwing a party with a 1980s feel can help bring back those memories -- and it isn't difficult to do. Many of the things that were popular in the 1980s are available today. Visit retro shops that specialize in the 1980s; they'll make it easier than ever to relive those magical times.

Instructions

1. Decorate the party room with a 1980s feel. Hang posters of 1980s performers on the wall. Michael Jackson, Flock of Seagulls, Madonna and simply Red are a few of the artists and bands that were popular. Don't forget some posters of 1980s hair bands, like Whitesnake, Poison and Cinderella. Hang streamers in bright 1980s neon colors like yellow, pink, teal and purple.

2. Set out plenty of snacks that were popular in the 1980s. Wine coolers and Jell-O shots were big alcohol refreshments during that time, as well as cocktails with cute names, such as Long Island iced tea, fuzzy navels and grasshoppers. Also provide Capri Sun, Sprite and Coca-Cola in a cooler. Buffalo wings, chips and cheese and microwave popcorn are good party snacks for a 1980s party fest. The food layout is an important part of the feel of your 1980s party.

3. Crank up the 1980s music, including music by the people whose posters you've hung on the wall. A big boom box (portable stereo) with a stack of 1980s CDs will keep the party alive and people dancing. Make the music part of the decor by hanging flashing lights and dedicating a portion of the room for dancing.

4. Decorate the room with board games such as Twister. This can help bring back the feel of the 1980s and also provides guests with something to have fun with. If possible, dedicate an entire section of the room to these games, with tables where guests can move from one board game to another.

Convert Pictures To Black & Whitened

Color photos can be converted into black and white.

Color pictures can be converted to black and white with an editing procedure that creates a vintage effect. Most graphic editors feature this ability, but the better-known ones can get a bit expensive. Certain versions of the Microsoft operating system, such as Windows 7, have a built-in viewer where this task can be completed for free. There are also ways to do this online without having to spend any money. The pictures should first be imported from a cell phone, camera or other photo-capable digital device.

Microsoft Windows 7

Click on the "Start" button located in the bottom left-hand corner of the desktop and select "All Programs." From this folder, start the "Windows Live Photo Gallery" application. This is a free basic editing program that comes with certain versions of Windows. (If your OS doesn't feature it, there is a free way to complete this task online, explained below.) Go to the "File" menu in the upper-left corner and click "Include Folder." Click on the "Add" button and locate the picture you would like to convert into black and white.

Converting the Picture

Look at the navigation pane located on the left and double-click on the selected picture in order to expose the application's editing capabilities. Choose the option labeled "Adjust Color" from the right menu bar. Next, use the "Saturation" slider by sliding it to the left to convert the picture to black and white.

Free Online Option

Go to the Free Online Image Editor site. Select the black and white picture under the "Step 1: Select a Process" option, which is located toward the left of the screen. There are numerous editing options available on this picture, but this one will convert the picture into black and white. Move down until you see "Step 2: Choose Your Picture." Click on an option called "Choose File," immediately to the right. From the window that opens, browse over to the picture that you wish to convert and press "Open."

Saving the Picture

Click on the "Submit" button in order to complete the conversion. Do not select the "Make Public" option unless you would like to share this picture with everyone who visits the site. Right-click on the converted picture and choose "Save Image As" to save the visible image to your computer.

Write Shadow Poetry

Shadow Poetry is a web-based community founded in February 2000 by James and Marie Summers of Excelsior Springs, Missouri, to support, educate and encourage poets around the globe. It offers online forums for discussing poetry and opportunities to publish poems on its website and through its affiliated electronic magazines, contests and chapbooks. Here's use its resources to take your poetry out of the shadows.

Instructions

1. Go to the Shadow Poetry website.

2. Play with the magnetic poetry board consisting of word tiles you can drag around with your mouse to form phrases and sentences. Its purpose is to stimulate your creativity. As a member, you can post your magnetic poetry creations.

3. Create a username and password to join the Shadow Poetry message board. This will allow you to post messages and reply to posted messages. No fee is charged to join the message board.

4. Join the Community of Poets by paying a membership fee and creating a user name and password to create a profile, submit poetry, send announcements to others and enter contests. A yearly renewal fee, which is less than the membership fee, also is charged.

5. Submit poetry to the website. Most submissions will appear on the site within 24 hours of submission but may be rejected for inappropriate content, improper formatting or invalid email address. Work may be removed upon request and also may be removed if found not to be the author's original work or if the author has been abusive to other members or delinquent in paying dues.

6. Enter the poetry contests. The website offers some competitions and additional contests are offered through the affiliated SP Quill Quarterly Magazine. Contests require an entry fee; the collected money is used to create a prize fund.

Write An Unforgettable Thanks Note

Go beyond standard envelopes and select a uniquely colored or shaped envelope.

Having the right stationery and wording can make the difference between an average thank-you note and a memorable message of thanks. The most memorable thank-you notes are personal, articulate and presented in an imaginative way. Because a memorable thank-you note requires something more personalized than a store-bought card, compose a memorable note that lets the recipient know how much you appreciate the gift as well as their friendship. Even an average writer can create a memorable thank-you note by following basic content guidelines and crafting how the message is delivered.

Instructions

1. Ditch the computer and the cell phone. Even though a majority of correspondence takes place electronically, the Emily Post Institute recommends handwriting thank-you notes (Reference 1). Sending a handwritten note will also give the recipient something to hold in their hand or store after reading.

2. Select stationery or specialty paper that reflects your personality. The card or paper sets the overall tone of the note because it is the first thing the recipient sees. Select an uncommon or unique paper or graphic design and be memorable from the start.

3. Address them politely. The way you choose to head the thank-you note depends upon your relationship with the recipient. For a more formal address, use "Dear Mrs. Misali" and for a less formal address, write "Dear Aunt Debby."

4. Thank them. Though this is a basic guideline for all thank-you notes, it is an important step. Above all, this is a thank-you note. Do not clutter the opening sentence with updates on your life or any other information. Start strong and direct.

5. Get specific. Write about how you plan to use the gift the recipient gave you. This is an opportunity to get creative. The key is to be specific and to avoid broad, inexpressive statements. For example, if someone gave you a piece of jewelry, write about where you plan on wearing it next or how easily it pairs with your existing wardrobe.

6. Arrange for a time to see them again or mention the next event where the two of you will be together. Use this opportunity to concentrate on thanking the recipient for the gift, but to expand your relationship. If you do not have plans to see the recipient in the near future, say that you will call them in a week to catch up.

7. Close with another round of thanks and sign the note.

Write A Media Essay

Media essays are essays about aspects of the media, such as Internet, television, music and even technology, and how those media alter and affect our everyday lives. A media essay is typically written with MLA style guidelines, and while media essays allow for a more personal writing approach, all personal insight should be based on a thorough understanding of the subject. Media essays serve to enlighten their intended audience, whether by warning of the potential pitfalls of the subject at hand, or by teaching new ways of using the media to make our lives better. Here's how you can write effective media essays that are contemporary and informative.

Instructions

1. Select a topic that is current and applicable to the widest possible audience. You might write an essay about webcams and how webcam users give up their privacy in favor of letting complete strangers into their personal lives via the cams. Such a topic would relate to a large audience on a number of levels.

2. Outline and focus your article. Open a notebook and jot down ideas for structure. Make notes of the resources you will use to support your essay. In the case of the webcam essay, find webcam users online and email them requesting to interview them by email. Decide what your position is on the subject and determine how you will balance your opinions with the facts you present.

3. Write an introduction that gives a brief history of the media you're writing about, state what your essay will discuss and let your audience know what you believe your conclusion will be.

4. Analyze and interpret the subject matter of your essay in the body of the article. Cite any resources in the appropriate style guidelines you're writing to, whether this is MLA or APA. You can use a free reference chart if you are unsure about all of the formatting details (see resources). Include quoted material from sources familiar with the media technology you're writing about. Well-placed quotes can strengthen your essay.

5. Summarize the article in your conclusion and reiterate the information. If you feel the paper supports your initial observations, summarize the core proof in the conclusion of your article.

Support Drama & Imaginative Participate In The Early Years

Children enjoy playing make-believe.

Childhood is a time for developing imaginations. During the early years, parents and caregivers can support children's natural love of drama and imaginative play. Supply the children with plenty of garments and items to help them realize their play worlds. Supporting the child's drama and imaginative play lays the groundwork for healthy development and learning.

Instructions

1. Provide young children with costumes and clothes they can play in. Ask the children about their favorite cartoon characters and imaginary characters and help them find outfits. Find princess dresses at discount and thrift stores, which also offer animal costumes such as lions and tigers, and character costumes such as Harry Potter. During these early years, children can play make-believe with cast-off or hand-me-down clothes. Encourage children to use their imaginations to create their own clothing designs.

2. Stock the child's room with toys and props. The main priority is safety and age-appropriate items. Give the child opportunities to create imaginary worlds with blocks, stuffed animals, and various toys. Offer household items such as empty cardboard oatmeal containers the child can use for drums, building blocks and castle walls. Assist the child in building or creating the play-acting by making suggestions to enhance the play, or let the child play without interruption.

3. Ask the child's ideas about the setting of their imaginative play. Indoors, children can use couches and chairs as boats, cars, coaches or spaceships. Use blankets and quilts draped across sturdy chairs for a playhouse. Add pillows and more blankets inside to help the child imagine details. For imaginary play outside, set children's plastic tables and chairs with tea sets. Use pie tins and measuring cups and spoons for playing cook. In the yard and under the shade of trees, children can imagine a world of fairies, elves, talking animals and other magical creatures such as dragons.

Write Instructions For An Author

When a book has made a strong impression on you, you might want to share your feelings with the person who sat down and wrote that book. Whether you agreed or disagreed with the book, whether you were touched by it or offended by it, you can follow a few steps to clearly make a point with your letter.

Instructions

Write a Letter to an Author

1. Begin by jotting down on scratch paper all the possible thoughts you might like to get across to this writer. Brainstorm by just randomly writing your ideas down; put down anything that comes into your head without censoring yourself. You might want to make comments about one or more of the following: --A character you could identify with or that you admired --A character you disliked --What you thought was an extremely believable—or unbelievable—part of the book --What you thought about the plot twists and turns—or lack of them --What you thought about the ending of the book --What you thought of the author’s writing

2. Next, look through the list you’ve made and pick out what you think are the top two or three items. Circle those. Now write each of those items on separate sheets of scratch paper. Under each, jot down some specific thoughts. For example, if you are writing about a character you admired, what did you specifically admire about her or him—what did he or she do or not do that you were in awe of or admired.

3. Now decide if you want to concentrate your letter on what you’ve written on one, two, or all three of those sheets. Your letter will have a better chance of being read if it’s no longer than one written page, so remember that if you decide to write about three different topics, you’ll have to say less about each one. Once you’ve made that decision, you’re ready to actually write the letter.

4. Begin with a sentence identifying which book you are writing about and something about yourself. For example, “I am a junior in high school, and I have just finished reading “The Best Day.”Or “As a computer programmer myself, I was very interested in reading your book, “The Best Day.”

5. Continue your letter by stating and explaining your main points. If you want to say the book was wonderful, go ahead and do so. And then tell why--by going to your scratch paper and using your ideas to talk about, for example, why you identified with the main character. Be very detailed in what you say, referring to specific events, dialogs, or description in the book.

6. End your letter with a respectful general comment, whether complimentary or critical. You might say that look forward to reading the author’s future work (if you do indeed feel that way).

Write A Kids' Book

A children's book can be a delight to develop, and publishing a children's book is easy (provided you don't want to make a lot of money at it) thanks to self-publishing enterprises and print-on-demand services. However, some people think that writing a kids' book is a snap because it contains simple language and has a brief length. Nothing could be further from the truth. It requires work to turn a neat idea into a complete story, and like any other project, there will be bumps along the way. If you're committed to the idea, writing a kids' book can be extremely fulfilling, but it does take effort.

Instructions

1. Research the various children's age groups and get an idea for what appeals to them. Young adults of 11 or 12 may respond to very sophisticated writing, while younger children enjoy simpler stories with more cheerful themes. Very young children focus more on the sounds of the words than the story, and respond to books that contain a lot of repeated phrases and phonetic emphasis. Read up on children's education, talk to teachers and child psychologists, and volunteer at a preschool or a day care center where you can see your intended audience interacting.

2. Come up with a story idea that matches the sensibilities of your chosen age group. Older children may like a story with a lot of action and excitement, while younger children will need a simple storyline and very few scares. The story should contain a dilemma which needs to be resolved: for younger kids, it should be non-life threatening, like a character getting caught in the rain or remembering to help out a friend. Older kids can handle a little more intensity, but it should still remain positive and upbeat overall. The characters in the story should be approachable and identifiable to kids: kids themselves, anthropomorphic animals or adults who are either foolish or who don't fit in to the established order. The characters should struggle against the dilemma before finally hitting upon a solution and implementing it.

3. Talk to an artist about drawing pictures for your story. While a young adult novel can be nothing but text, books for younger kids always have pictures--preferably color pictures--to illustrate the action. An artist will likely ask for a fee, but if she is sufficiently excited about the project, may be willing to do it for much less than the normal rate.

4. Sit down with the artist and work out the basic structure of the piece. You should know what parts of the action will go on which page, and what points will be best for the artists' illustrations. That will allow you to write the story without having to shift things around midway through to fit a given structure.

5. Write the story down in its entirety, then edit and polish it until you are happy with the structure. Be sure to note how much text will go on each page. Generally speaking, the text should be completely finished before the artist starts his work, though in some cases, you may be working together in tandem and in other cases the pictures will be done first. If the pictures are done, make sure you write the story so that it matches them exactly. Words can be rewritten very easily, but pictures must basically be redrawn from scratch if changes are needed.

6. Contact a publisher or a self-publishing enterprise to see about getting your kids' book into print.

Write A Horror Script

Horror movies are one of the most popular genres in film today. Millions of box dollars are spent of having the crap scared out of you. The following are some ways to help you get started writing a horror movie script.

Instructions

1. Starting out: The first thing you want to think of is what type of horror film would you like to make. The horror genre can be stretch from The Friday the 13th series to King Kong to Silence of the Lambs. Do you want blood and guts or more suspense?

2. Think of What Scares You. The foundation of a good horror film is preying on the human psyche. Your little (or large) fear can be the catalyst. Snakes? Being Alone? Any paranoid thought, try to write out. This can give you insight on where to take your script.

3. Come up with a title: Sometimes, a title will frame a perfect vision in your mind and help you decide where you want to take your writing. Brainstorm, if you have an idea where you what you want in your script, use a thesaurus or a book called 'Word Menu'.

4. Create an Antagonist: Give this person, place or thing a backstory. Even if none of the information makes it into your script, it will help you give your character demension and reason why they are doing what they are doing. Who are they, how old, what are their parents like? Ask 20 questions to what makes the character they way they are.

This can also give you insight to plot choices, character strengths, weaknesses, etc.

5. Start from the end: Have the ending in mind and work backwards. Most the time with any film, writers will write themselves into a corner trying to figure tie a story together. By starting with the ending you will already know where the story will end and your writing will navigate you towards that goal without convuluting everything.

6. Outline: Write out the beats of the script. Don't start writing the script until you have a dinstinct outline. It is the skeleton of the your script and provides a solid foundation to what you want to write about. Also think of great moments you would like, you can use your other scenes to get up to that point.

Draw My Title In three dimensional

Three-dimensional letters are ideal for fliers, posters, homemade cards, scrapbooks or just for doodling. Writing in 3D is an art form of its own, often used in conjunction with other art forms. With a little practice, even someone with little artistic ability can learn to write his of her name in 3D, for pleasure or as part of an art project.

Instructions

1. Draw the letters of your name first, without adding any dimension. Choose whether you want to draw the letters in block form (straight, hard edges) or as bubble letters (smooth, rounded lines). Draw the letters with enough space between them to allow you to develop the extra lines you'll need to make them 3D.

2. Add the dimension to each of your letters. Choose the side of the letters you want to extend into 3D. Be consistent. If you begin drawing your dimension on the right side, do it on the right side for all of your letters. Begin the 3D line just inside or outside of the initial line you drew when you wrote your letters. The distance between this second line and the first will be the 3D part of your letter. Start the second line as far away from the first line as you want, depending upon how thick you want your 3D effect to be.

3. Follow the contour of each letter of your name (on one side of the letter only). Begin the line against the initial letter you drew, extend it out to create the dimension, then angle it in as you reach the top of your letter.

4. Shade the areas of the letter you created with your second line. These areas are the 3D sections that will make your name stand out. If you shade the face of the letters, use more pressure to make it darker or less to make it lighter. You want the face of your letters and the 3D sections to contrast with one another for the 3D effect.

Decorate A Kid'S Wagon For Any Wedding

An old-fashioned wagon is ideal for a western or country theme.

The very young flower girl or ring bearer is pulled down the aisle in a decorated wagon for an adorable touch to a wedding. Another touching option is for the children to pull a wagon that is filled with flowers, the ring bearer's pillow and rings or photos of the couple as children. Decorate a kid's wagon with colors and flowers that match the wedding theme and decor. Keep the materials well away from the wheels of the wagon for the safety of the child.

Instructions

1. A red metal wagon will work for a wedding transport.

Drape the tulle across the front and sides of the wagon and secure it with the clear packing tape. The draped effect is formed with U-shaped swags. Keep the draped fabric away from the wheels. If the wagon has slats, tie the swags in place with pieces of ribbon.

2. Wind two different colored ribbons around the handle of the wagon for a colorful effect. Secure the ends of the ribbon to the handle with packing tape.

3. Pin ribbon bows or flowers with safety pins over the tape to cover it. Fresh or silk fall leaves are a nice touch at an autumn wedding.

4. Tie a ribbon bow to the pull handle.

5. Attach wedding bells and artificial floral supply doves to the tulle swags with safety pins or tape.

Write A Graduate Goal Statement For Literary Critique

You've just earned your literary criticism bachelor's degree, and you're considering graduate school. To get anything out of your next degree, you need a goal. Make a goal statement for yourself. How should you do it? .

Instructions

1. Define why you want to pursue post-graduate education. You're passionate about it, right? Consider your career options. Wendy Griswold, author of "Recent Moves in Sociology of Literature," best illustrates the point here: "The sociology of literature is like an amoeba: it lacks firm structure, but has flowed along in certain directions nonetheless." Similar to literature's countless interpretations, your career can blossom in different ways. Become a novelist or short-story writer, a book reviewer for a major publication, a teacher, a blogger, or a librarian. After four years of college, you should focus on what path makes you happiest. Challenge yourself, though.

2. Once you've chosen a career path, make an outline of further action. You've heard about the importance of outlines since elementary school, but this is vital for post-graduate success. Suppose you choose to blog as a literary reviewer. A few examples of good literary blogs include Bookslut, The Millions, and Blogcritics, which you can browse by clicking the links below under Resources. Blogcritics reviews all kinds of literary works, not just the stuff written on paper. Don't forget to choose a graduation date an include it in your outline. The master's degree will give you even more career opportunities.

3. You've developed a master plan. But mini-deadlines make the master plan work. Something small due tomorrow is easier to handle than something big due in the inconvenient, forgettable future. If you're a blogger, review a book one day and compare two works the next. Based on the aforementioned blogs, diverse and repetitive interpretation inspires fresh ideas. As the reviews pile up, keep tabs on comments you receive from readers either weekly or monthly, depending on your blog frequency. This online approach stimulates interested, two-way communication.

4. Don't limit yourself to a single literary criticism career. The nature of your business welcomes multiple paths. You can even pursue different careers at the same time. Because of your inherent, diverse mindset, feel free to teach, write novels, or work in a library. Talk with colleagues and mentors to see what they advise.

Write A Game Title Script

Write and keep track of your complex game script using flowchart software.

Video games have come a long way from the "jump over barrels thrown by angry ape" or "yellow circle eats dots while avoiding ghosts." Many of the video games today are more akin to interactive movies, with in-depth worlds and a full cast of characters going through an emotional rollercoaster of trials. This is due to an incredible amount of game development, which all starts with the writing of the script. With a little time and a lot of patience, writing a video game script can be a thoroughly rewarding experience.

Instructions

Developing Your Game Script

1. Determine the genre of your game. Decide what format you want the game to be: role playing game or space shooter? It may prove to be a difficult task to attempt to write a script for a genre that you are not familiar with.

2. Create the background information of your world. Determine if your game takes place on Earth or on a distant planet named Xenu; back in the 1400s or in the year 3023. Develop any cultural differences that will affect the story, and any varied races that will play a part in your game. The more thought out and deep your world is, the better.

3. Draft an overview of your game. This should be a prose document that covers the various major plot points of the game. Tell the story of the game, from the opening image until the credits roll, and focus on including any significant events that unfold. If you have a game that has multiple endings, this is not the place to focus on the different choices that lead up to these different endings. Simply write the "best case scenario" plot and ending.

4. Write the character bios and descriptions. With all major characters, including protagonists and antagonists, make a detailed synopsis of them. In addition to what their appearance and personality are like, discuss what makes them tick, what there motivation is, how they fit in to the world and any unique traits or abilities. Also use this time to describe their physical attributes. Is your character a ninja with camouflage skin? Or maybe an alley cat with a Mohawk? Regardless of your characters' backgrounds, this is the spot to map it all out. The developers need as much information as possible to create your character, so if you are not able to provide drawings of how they should look, describe them as best you can in words.

5. Create a flowchart of events. With the great complexity of your game will come a great many decisions that your player will come across. Each of these decisions is a branch: choose to do "A", then "C" will happen; choose to do "B", then "D" happens. Depending on the level of open-endedness that you want your game to include, these choices will affect how the plot unfolds from there on out. A flowchart will greatly help you map out the possibilities and the different branches in story flow. A variety of programs like "EDraw Flowchart" or "Crystal Flow" are available for purchase either online or in any electronics store.

6. Map out any subplots. Subplots, or as they're called in games "sub-quests", are deviations from the standard story that add depth to the game, but not necessarily to the overall story. Each one of these sub-quests should have a synopsis written in prose of how it gets started, what is involved and how it is ultimately resolved.

7. Create the cut-scenes. The cut scenes are any in-game "movies" that normally interrupt game play, and move the story forward. In most games today, cut-scenes are necessary to help tell the story. On occasion, cut-scenes are occurring simultaneously with the action that you are still in control of. Map out any of this in the cut-scene section.

8. Create a treatment for your script. This is the meat of your script, where you lay out all of the different intricacies in your game in chronological order, essentially telling the entire story. This step should not be attempted before the subsequent steps have been completed in their entirety, as you will be utilizing all of the elements to lay out each scene as we go through the story. Number each scene simply (i.e. "Scene 1"), and include the scene's location, which characters will be involved in it, any special sound effects used, any physical limitations of the characters at that point, interactions that occur, treasure/items available, music playing, action events that happen during it and, of course, the player's goal for the scene.

9. Write any dialogue of the script. Video game script is similar in many ways to the script of a film. The main difference is that instead of telling the story from start to finish, as you would with a movie script, you are telling the story through the different dialogue in sections. Map out the location each dialogue section takes place in, who is involved and what is said and done. Each section that includes dialogue with any Non-Player Character (NPC) is written in each section and referenced to the various branches in your flowchart. For example, if your hero has a choice at the fourth branch in the flowchart in Scene 1, he can choose one way, and it brings up a string of dialogue that you would entitle "Scene 1: Dialogue 4A". If he chooses the other option, then you would title the section "Scene 1: Dialogue 4B".

Write An Interesting Facebook Status Message

Write a Funny Facebook Status Message

Facebook status updates are a funny old game. Of course it's imperative that you let all of your friends know exactly how your hangover's progressing or what you're planning to have for dinner. But if you are bored with your same old Facebook statuses, here is a way to get inspired and maybe even make someone laugh.

Instructions

1. A good source for inspiration is movies and television shows. Some popular sources for quotes include Office Space ("Tina believes that you have her stapler"), The Simpsons ("Connie tastes like burning") and Family Guy ("Chad says give a larbage; Throw out your garbage"). If you and your friends have a favorite movie or a can't-miss TV show, they would be other good choices for picking humorous references everyone would enjoy.

2. Use famous quotations. If you need some inspiration, visit an online quote archive such as The Quotations Page (see resources).

3. Try using pick-up lines. Choose a clean pick-up line that's just a little silly. Perhaps "Sean wants to rearrange the alphabet to put U and I together." This is the kind of saying that won't evoke a huge laugh, but it's sure to make at least one person smile.

4. You can also use "in-jokes". Creating a status message based on a funny incident in your life or a running joke from an event can be an easy path to laughs. However, you should be careful not to drag the joke on too long. Also think about how many people among your friends would actually get the joke.

5. If all else fails, use online collections of funny status sayings. Thousands of Facebook users have posted funny messages before you. Why start from scratch when there's so much material already out there? Browse your friends' profiles for inspiration or search for "funny facebook status" to find compiled lists.

Write A Movie Strategy To Traders

The script has been completed and the producer has arranged meetings with investors about potentially financing the film. He asks you for a treatment of the script to offer the investors. Unlike the treatment you wrote before writing the script, this treatment needs to become a professional document. This tutorial will teach you "woo" investors with a treatment.

Instructions

1. Complete the script. Writing a treatment for investors requires the script to be complete, or at least complete at that point.

2. Update the pre-script treatment. If this is about to go to investors, odds are a few drafts of the script have been done, and it has evolved from when you began.

3. List the characters and whether they are major/supporting/principal on the first page(s).

4. Describe Act One. This should reach much like a book. The goal here is to turn a 100 page script into a 5-6 page document that gets the exact same plot points and action across.

5. Repeat Step #4 for the remaining two or four acts. If you have a script over five acts, you do not have a film script, you have a mini-series or television show.

6. Be dramatic and capitalize/underline words. An investor will not read a script, but can be very impressed with the movie before ever hearing dialog if you purvey the drama through prose.

7. Stay within the story. Avoid sounding like the writer and sound more like an impartial narrator. "I" and "My" are off-limits here.

Suggestions For Designing A Brand New Year Cake

New Year's is an event that happens every year on January 1, and is usually celebrated with a huge party with friends and family. Often times people stay up until midnight on Dec. 31 to celebrate the New Years while hosting a party or event of some kind. One thing involved in throwing a party is having an elaborate cake to bring in the New Years with. Deciding decorate the cake can be a tough decision with many possibilities.

The Ball Drop

One idea for decorating a cake for New Year's is to illuminate the ball dropping above Times Square. Putting the cake longways, first draw the needlepoint and the base of the building to place the ball on. Then using different colors make a circle ball and have it in the middle of the needle point. You can add to the surroundings of the cake by drawing little confetti around the building or drawing miniature people below the building. This idea involves some easy, but elaborate decorating ideas. Get silver icing for the building and then whatever color icing you want for the ball. You can also write the year atop the building in black or another color.

The Clock

Another idea for decorating a New Year's cake is to make a two tier or three tier cake where the top is decorated to resemble a clock. Make the clock white with black numbers and black hands that are at midnight. Around the sides of the tiers of the cake can be decorated any color and then items can be placed on them or they can be left just a plain color. One idea is to draw pigs on the sides because they stand for good luck and fortune. If you like winter, you may want to put snowflakes on the cake or maybe having the year written around the side of the cake.

An Elegant New Year's Cake

If you are looking to make an elegant cake for New Year's, a circle cake will work the best. First start by decorating the outside of the circle by drawing red roses all around the edges. You can then go ahead and add green vine-like leaves that are entwined around the roses. The next step is to write Happy New Year's in black icing. In order to make the writing look elegant, try to write the phrase in cursive so that it looks like calligraphy. This will make the cake very simple to decorate but with a more fancy look.

Re-size A Photograph Using Fresh paint Internet

Sometimes, you may find that you need to resize a photo to complete certain projects using your digital pictures. This is a common occurrence because most digital cameras take large pictures. Paint.net has a feature that allows you to resize any photo, so here are the instructions on do that.

Instructions

1. Open the picture you need to resize. You can do this by clicking on the "Open folder" icon on the second navigation bar in Paint.net.

2. Click on the "Image" option on the top navigation bar. This will open up a drop-down menu. Pick the "Resize" option from the menu. This will open a pop up box.

3. Pick the "Resampling" style you need for your project. "Best Quality" is the most common option.

4. Decide if you want to resize the image by percentage or by absolute size. Mark the option that you decide. If you choose to resize your photo by absolute size, make sure that the "Maintain aspect ratio" box is checked so your photo will look the same on a different size scale.

5. Choose the size you want your picture. If you want your picture resized by percentage, use the up or down arrow to resize it. If you want to resize it by the absolute size, enter a value in one of the available boxes.

6. Make sure that the picture is exactly how you need it. Once you do this, you can use the Save as option to save the new picture while maintaining the old picture. Just remember to use a new name when you save it.

7. Know that you can resize a photo larger but if you do this, it may look very pixelated. Resizing an image is best when you are making the image smaller.

Compose Music

Musical composition is a challenging and rewarding practice. Learning compose music that is engaging and interesting can be very difficult for some people to learn. The education and concentration needed to make a composition great can cause some people to abandon projects all together. However, composing music doesn't have to be like doing a math problem. Learn some easy steps to compose a piece of music.

Instructions

1. Begin by assessing whether you have the mental characteristics associated with a good composer. Ask yourself whether you have the ability to concentrate, a relatively rational mind, a good ear for sound and mixing and a working knowledge of music and music theory.

2. Brush up on your basic music theory skills. Begin with the most fundamental aspect of music which is rhythm. Learn voicing techniques, stylistic concerns (dynamic considerations, tempo and genre constraints), and write on musical staff paper.

3. Determine what type of music you want to compose. Listen to various artists and compositions of that style of music and pay special attention to each nuance of the music.

4. See if you can visualize the music on paper and, if possible, get a hold of the musical transcript so you can follow along while listening; it will give you a good idea of where to begin. Start with a melody and move on to the supporting parts

5. Obtain a keyboard, piano or guitar, since it will be the easiest way to write your musical piece. After you have decided on genre and instrumentation, buy a musical composition program to make the composition process easier; it is especially helpful for beginning composers. The best practice will be gained through handwriting the parts. Work on your piece in small sections, using an introduction, a middle and a good ending.

6. Take time to assess what you have written each day after writing. Listen to your own music and make sure you go through and play each part yourself so you are intimately acquainted with what you have written. If you are writing for just one instrument, then write something you can connect with.

7. Enroll in a music composition course at a local college or music conservatory. Alternatively, you could consider an online course in composition if you do not have access to a college course. Start small (a five or six-line-long piece) and work your way up to the big stuff.

Diy Furniture Refinishing

Refinish furniture to enhance its appearance.

You can rejuvenate ordinary or tarnished furniture by refinishing it with the right type of stain or paint. If you plan to paint the furniture, you must condition the surface a particular way, depending on its condition, or it will ultimately shed its new finish. If you plan to stain or varnish the furniture, you may need to employ specific preparatory steps to promote absorption, or the finish could end up splotchy and uneven.

Instructions

Preparation

1. Remove cushions from the furniture.

2. Shelter the floor beneath the furniture from drips and splatters by covering it with plastic dropcloths. Cover the plastic dropcloths with fabric ones to prevent pooling.

3. Remove dust from the furniture by wiping it with a tack cloth.

4. Cover portions of the furniture you do not want refinished with painter's tape and plastic coverings.

Stain

5. Coat the furniture with a coat of stain, using a paintbrush, made for use with oil-based finishes. Add more coats for richer color. Allow two hours of drying time between each coat.

6. Clean the brush with mineral spirits.

7. Wait at least six hours. Coat the furniture with a coat of varnish, using the clean brush. Wait a full day before using the furniture.

Paint

8. Coat the furniture with a coat of acrylic latex primer, using a paintbrush, made for use with water-based finishes.

9. Clean the brush with water.

10. Wait at least two hours. Coat the furniture with semi-gloss or gloss latex paint, using the clean brush. Wait a full day before using the furniture.

Jesus Tattoo Ideas

Jesus Christ is the Christian Son of God.

All tattoos should have a significant and deep meaning, and for some, there is no deeper meaning then their religious faith. If you are Christian and wish to get a tattoo symbolizing your faith, consider one of many Jesus tattoo ideas. The location of the tattoo deserve as much consideration as the design itself, just note that more detailed tattoos require a larger surface area to display adequately. As with any tattoo, take time to consider every detail before application and always check an artist's portfolio beforehand.

Praying Jesus

A praying Jesus tattoo is usually done from a side profile, either kneeling or standing, showing his head bent forward slightly and his eye shut. His hands should also be clasped in front of his face to signify prayer. Those electing to have the tattoo done in color should consider a bright yellow and orange halo shining behind his head to mirror the angelic images portrayed in many church stained glass windows. The tattoo can also be the bust of Jesus from the shoulders up, which will still show his face and hands.

Martyred Jesus

The martyred Jesus is represented by Jesus dying on the wooden crucifix described in the Bible. You can either choose to have just the image of Jesus with his feet together, arms spread and head bowed, or tattoo the cross as well to show the complete image. There should be a small crown of thorns upon his head and a small incision should also be present beneath his ribs. Even if you elect to have this tattoo done in traditional black and gray, you should still consider using a small amount of red to portray blood drops in both the incision and on his forehead underneath the crown.

Baby Jesus

A small baby lying in a manger, wrapped in white clothes is the universal image for the baby Jesus. It is just a small portion of a much grander nativity scene representing the birth of Jesus. You can choose to have the entire scene tattooed, but a complete nativity scene could take up a significant portion of your body, so it may be best to just stick with the baby Jesus. Add a small yellow and orange halo behind the infant's head to signify his angelic future.

Da Vinci Jesus

The Jesus represented in Leorando Da Vinci's "The Last Supper" can also make a prominent tattoo. Again, the complete image may be too large for many people to tattoo in its entirety, so consider just the image of Jesus, standing with his arms spread apart and lying palm-up on the table in front of him. The tattoo can also be done in purposely faded ink and given artificial cracks to mirror the actual mural painting.

Cost Your Products To Market In A Yard Sale

The perfect price point maximizes income from a garage sale.

Yard sale, tag sale or garage sale -- call it what you want, these sales are a great way to rid yourself of clutter and make a few bucks in the process. Pricing your items correctly is a key part of a successful sale. Price too high, and you lose potential buyers. Price too low, and you risk leaving money on the table and losing profits. You can take steps to price your items for a successful sale.

Instructions

1. Price your items before the day of your sale. Yard sales can get hectic, and it will only add to your stress if you have to address price issues. Shoppers may pass up unpriced items because the owner of the sale was too busy to approach with a question.

2. Avoid applying retail prices. The original cost of an item has little bearing on its resale price.

3. Pinpoint the objective of your sale ahead of time. If you want to get rid of clutter, price your items lower. If you are determined to make good money, price a little higher.

4. Research the value of potential high-dollar antiques before the day of the sale. Antique stores typically have a professional on staff that, for a nominal fee, comes to your house and gives you an idea of the value of your items.

5. Apply bright, noticeable labels to your items and put the prices on signs as well. Customers will often pass on an item if they don't see a price.

6. Mark index cards or bright-colored cardstock to create signs with detail and information about larger items. Provide measurements, purchase history and price, along with comments such as "works great" or "only used once," to increase interest and possibly lead to a sale.

Write A Christmas Poem For The Lover

Writing a Christmas poem for your lover is special because you are distinguishing between any other ordinary day or holiday. It is a festive way to show how much you care without spending a lot of money, and the poem will likely become a keepsake for your lover, evidence of love years down the road.

Instructions

Write a Christmas Poem for Your Lover

1. Think about memories of you and your lover that are specific to Christmas, like wrapping presents, picking out a tree or hanging decorations. Recall the most fun time the two of you have had, and the most romantic. Keep these memories in mind; you will use them as material for the poem you are about to write.

2. Use your pen to write on the stationery, and begin writing about your first Christmas together, or another memory you had in mind. Separate each memory into a stanza, a paragraph within the poem with about four lines. The number of stanzas is up to you, depending on how many memories you want to include. Aside from memories, include your feelings in the poem. Tell your lover how you felt on each occasion you mention. It's Christmas, so it's OK to be sensitive and romantic.

3. When you have finished writing the poem, gently roll it into a tube shape, making a scroll. Cut a piece of red ribbon and tie it around the middle of the scroll, making a bow. Then, insert the candy cane in the middle of the scroll, and let the hook of the candy cane hang on the outside. These little extras are what help make this a special Christmas poem, not a poem for any other day.

Kids Details On King Tut

This ornate mask decorated the sarcophagus of Tutankhamun.

The pharaoh Tutankhamun, known to many today as "King Tut," ruled from around 1333 to 1323 B.C., during the Egyptian 18th dynasty. His short life was eventful, and thanks to the discovery of his tomb in 1922 we know more about him than we do about many other Egyptian kings. Tutankhamun's young age and the fascinating treasures of his tomb make him an ideal way to teach kids about ancient Egypt.

Tutankhamun's Name

Tutankhamun's name means "living image of Amun." Amun was an Egyptian sun god whose name is sometimes spelled Amon. Tutankhamun's original name was Tutankhaten, which means "living image of Aten." His father, the pharaoh Akhenaten, attempted to suppress the worship of other gods with the worship of his own god, Aten, but after his death Tutankhamun, probably advised by priests, reversed his father's reforms. Even Tutankhaten was probably not Tutankhamun's original name. Another source, the Amara letters, refers to him as Nibhurrereya. It was not uncommon for pharaohs to have several names.

Family Life

Tutankhamun was raised in the royal court at the city of Akhetaten. His mother was an unidentified woman known to Egyptologists as the "Younger Lady." This mummy has been proven by DNA testing to be Tutankhamun's mother. His uncle Smenkhkare probably succeeded Akhenaten as pharaoh for a short period, but little is known about him. Tutankhamun married his own half-sister, Ankhesenepatan, who later changed her name to Ankhesenamun. Marrying one's sister was common in the Egyptian royal family: Akhenaten had also married one of his own sisters.

Tutankhamun the Boy

Young students can empathize with Tutankhamun because he himself was very young. By the time he died, at the age of around 18, Tutankhamun had already been king for 10 years. However, Tutankhamun probably did not rule directly. His ministers ran most of the government for the young pharaoh. These ministers included his military leader, General Horemheb, Ay, his vizier, and Maya, the Overseer of the Treasury. When Tutankhamun died, Ay succeeded him as king and was in turn succeeded by Horemheb.

The Tomb of Tutankhamun

Tutankhamun's tomb, also known as KV62, is located in the Valley of the Kings near Luxor in Egypt. Because it was not discovered until 1922 and therefore was not looted, the tomb was filled with treasures intended to accompany the young pharaoh into the afterlife. Many of these may originally have been intended to be placed in other tombs, since Tutankhamun's early death did not allow for a proper funeral to be prepared. The king's body was placed in the innermost of a series of coffins, and the tomb was filled with furniture, vessels for offerings, costly perfumes, ritual statues and many other items including chariots.

Create A Tripod Easel

There are professional and amateur artists everywhere. There are people who paint for money and some who draw for fun. To complete and display their individual works of art, many of these people use a tripod easel. These useful tools come in many sizes, forms, and colors, and are made from many different types of materials. The problem is that it can be quite expensive to purchase easels, especially for the budding artist who has already spent a large amount of their budget on supplies and canvasses. But, with only a few dollars, a couple tools and a small investment of time, you can build your own easels to create and display your artwork.

Instructions

Make a Tripod Easel

1. Place three of the boards on top of each other with their thin sides showing and their wider edges together. Line them up side to side, top, and bottom. Drill a hole through all three boards at a point 1 inch from one end.

2. Slide the bolt through a 3/8 inch washer, then through the hole in the boards. Flip the boards and pull the bolt the rest of the way through the hole. Slide the other 3/8 inch washer onto the bolt, then the lock washer and thread on the wing nut. Do not tighten the assembly yet.

3. Flip the boards so that their small edges are up. Grab the outside boards at the end opposite the bolt and spread them gently apart. Lay the last board on top of the assembly so that its wide edge rests on their thin edges. Place the horizontal board 18 inches from the top of the bolt end of the assembly. Use the drill and Phillips head bit to secure the horizontal board to the outer, angled boards of the assembly with a deck screw into each board.

4. Slide a screw into one of the 1/4 inch washers, then through one end of the chain, then into the side of one of the outside legs of the easel. Attach the other end of the chain to the side of the middle leg of the easel in the same manner.

5. Stand the easel up. Pull the middle leg back so that the chain is taut. Tighten the wing nut so that the lock nut clips shut. Use the hacksaw to trim off the sharp ends of any screws that may be showing. Add a canvas, set up your supplies, and make some art.

Interpret A Haiku

Poetry has long been a venue of self-expression and many poets have found the natural world to be a source of infinite inspiration. The poets in Japan who brought the haiku form into existence were definitely among the writers who saw nature as something beautiful and wise. See the steps below to learn different ways to interpret this sometimes mysterious and always subtle poetry.

Instructions

1. Remember that haiku poems are extremely short. English haiku consist of a total of 17 syllables: 5 in the first line, 7 in the second, and 5 more in the last line. Japanese haiku poems in translation will appear much shorter than 17 syllables because the original haiku were written in Japanese and a set of 17 Japanese syllables usually makes up less words than a set of 17 English syllables.

2. Nature and the passing of time are often thematic elements of haiku. Typically, the poet makes a mention of a word referring to a season in a way to give solid reference to the blending of nature and time. In contemporary haiku, some poets are using urban imagery as a way to orient the poem; though this is not consistent with the original traditions of haiku, the effect is still remarkable.

3. Usually, haiku consists of a comparison of 2 different objects or notions. They are introduced with the briefest of images, as the poem is so short, and the challenge of the haiku poet is to work within a limited amount of words and syllables. A break at some point in the haiku indicates that a contrast is being made between the 2 ideas.

4. Though haiku is Japanese in origin, the poetry movement has grown in popularity around the world. Most contemporary haiku are written in Japan and English-speaking countries. Haiku seems to be an effective mode of communication between internet users, for example, and many websites dedicated to haiku have been formed.

5. The earliest haiku poets are documented as living during the 17th century in Japan. Some poets of distinction from this time period are Basho and Onitsura. Their works in translation exemplify the original spirit of the haiku. Contemporary non-Japanese writers and poets like Octavio Paz, W.H. Auden and even Jack Kerouac have used haiku to express their thoughts and emotions.

Illustrate An Audio Lesson

Using colored pencils can help you illustrate the song.

Like music, visual art has both rhythms and moods. When deciding illustrate a song, take into account those components in addition to the song's words, or lyrics, in order to create a piece of visual art that is in harmony with the music. The illustration should mirror the song in the theme and feeling it communicates to the viewer.

Instructions

1. Determine the central theme or scene the song portrays in its lyrics. For example, an illustration of a love song could focus on a couple or a heart as a love symbol.

2. Listen to the music's flow or rhythm. It may be smooth, harsh or choppy. When drawing your illustration, use flowing lines to represent a smooth rhythm and short, scratchy lines for a more choppy rhythm.

3. Determine how the music makes you feel. For example, it may be a happy song, or the music may bring you to tears or make you angry. Visual art often conveys mood through color.

4. Pick colors that communicate feelings inspired by the music, and use those colors to dominate your illustration of the song. For example, use red and orange to communicate anger. Use blue and violet hues to produce an illustration for a sad song. Use yellow to illustrate a happy song.

Print Transparencies On The Canon Ink jet

Use transparency sheets to display images on overhead projectors.

Canon inkjet printers print by spraying layers of small droplets of ink onto the paper or print medium. Many transparency sheets are designed for use with inkjet printers, and allow you to create professional-looking transparencies with your Canon printer. However, you must use the correct procedure to ensure that your transparency sheets print properly.

Instructions

1. Turn on your Canon inkjet printer. Remove all paper from the paper feed tray.

2. Place a single inkjet transparency sheet into the paper feed tray, making sure to insert it so that the rough side of the sheet is facing up as the sheet is loaded into the printer. If your transparency sheet has a white paper or plastic strip at one end, insert this end into the printer tray first to help the printer feed pull the sheet into the printer.

3. Load the image or document you wish to print and select the "Print..." option in the program you are printing the image or document from. When the printer options window appears, select your Canon printer and click the "Printer Properties" or "Printer Setup" button.

4. Navigate to the paper options in your Canon inkjet's options window. Select "Transparency" as the paper type, then click "OK" to accept the change and close the window.

5. Click the "Print" button to begin printing your image or document onto the transparency sheet.

6. Insert additional transparency sheets as needed, always inserting them one at a time with the rough side facing up.

7. Insert a single sheet of plain white paper into your Canon inkjet's paper feed tray. Press the "Feed" button on your printer to feed the sheet of paper through the printer to absorb any additional ink left behind by the transparency printing process.

Write A Magazine For Any Musical

The book writer is responsible for the scripted segment between the songs.

The writing of musicals is divided into three tasks; lyrics, composition and book. "Book" refers to the scripted segments between the songs. Writing book for a musical is much like writing a straight play where the story is told through dialog and stage direction. The key difference for a book writer is that the most powerful moments or "beats" in a musical are carried by the songs. The book writer's task is to set up those songs.

Instructions

1. Create an outline or "beat sheet" for the story you are telling. First write down a vertical list of the important moments, or "beats," that will be told through song. Leave ample space between those to write down the necessary plot points that need to happen for the songs to make sense. An example might be "The main character meets his love interest on his first day at work," which would likely set up a love song between the characters. Each "beat" should be no longer than one sentence.

2. Expand on each "beat" by creating an outline of a scene, including the setting, characters and action that will transpire. Also, for each character, write (in one sentence) their motivation -- what they want from the other characters. When characters have conflicting motivation, scenes become active and intense. Writing this information down on index cards keeps each outline short and allows you to rearrange the story visually for later drafts.

3. Write scripted scenes leading up to each song. Open each scene with stage direction indicating the setting and characters. Try to give characters action or "stage business" so they are not "talking heads." Consider what each character wants and write dialog that stays true to their motivations. The scenes should build in momentum to a place of emotional intensity so it seems natural when they break into song. Consider using script-writing software such as Final Draft or Celtx to make the formatting tasks easier than they might be on a word processor such as Microsoft Word.

4. Arrange a table read of the entire musical. Gather actors or other theatre practitioners together and assign each of them a role. Remember to have one extra reader available to read stage directions, so you are free to listen carefully. Take notes as to how naturally you feel the scripted segments flow into the songs. Write notes down on the script itself so you can easily refer to them when writing another draft. Solicit feedback from everyone present at the reading.

5. Write another draft, correcting and improving the scenes that seemed unclear in the reading. Ensure that each character has clear motivations and that each scene has a conflict that engages the audience. Make sure to save edits on your new draft to a new filename, so you still have a record of the first draft. This way you are free to experiment with changes that may or may not work, without losing a record of how things originally played out. Musicals usually go through many drafts and table reads, so don't be discouraged; just keep repeating steps 4 and 5 until you've got it right.

Write A Biography For Any Poet

As with any biographical account, a poet's biography must include the basic--birth, childhood, mark of independence, major life events and death. Poet-specific notable points include inspirations, quality progression and vices.

Birth and childhood

A poet may be faced with the tragic loss of his parents at a young age, and you should cover the factors involved and how deeply the poet was affected.

Mark of Independance

Many poets had vastly diverse jobs or educational pursuits, such as enlisting in the military before turning to poetry. Build a foundation to how their collegiate and working experiences influenced later work.

Major Life Events and Inspirations

Earlier you touched on the events that occurred during the poet's childhood; now provide more detail and note works where this trauma may be prevalent. Also cover what inspire her poetic flair to create verse--weather it be the glance of a woman or the cries of war, for example.

Vices

While not all poets suffered from a weak will towards alcohol, women or gambling, many had other issues that were not as evident. Touch on how their weaknesses and flaws influenced their poetry.

Death and Beyond

Be sure to note the writer's popularity (or notoriety) in the era of his passing. If the poetry gave relevant insight, tell what the poet would expect to encounter in the afterlife. Also, tell how widely circulated the poetry is today.

Create A Professional Art Portfolio

Organizing a master portfolio is an ongoing process. As you progress as an artist and professional, you will be constantly adding to your portfolio and rearranging it to get the best effect. It is worth the effort. Having a good master portfolio already put together will allow you to quickly put together a job portfolio for a particular interview. it will take a lot of the stress out of the process and ensure that you end up making the best impression possible.

Instructions

1. Keep a file with all of your work. You should keep pretty much everything you have ever made. Not only will this help you to make a portfolio, but it will also allow you to see the progress you have made as an artist.

2. Make a master portfolio showcasing your entire artistic career. Include the best slides and prints from everything you have worked on. Don't worry about cutting out too much stuff, but don't include things you will never want to use in an interview portfolio.

3. Organize your master portfolio. Group similar things together to make it easier to thumb through. For example, all of your installation work can be in one section, your woodcuts in another, your black and white photography in a third, and so on. Use tabbed dividers to make it easier to navigate the portfolio.

4. Make it look nice. Display your work on good quality paper with nice boundaries. Overmat all your prints. Make sure that everything is clean and fingerprint-free. Get a couple really high-quality portfolio cases to put it all in.

5. Make a job portfolio. Whenever you have to interview for a job or gallery showing, pull works out of your master portfolio that are relevant to that job and put them in your job portfolio. For example, for a graphic design job interview, you can display all of your graphic design work. Organize it to make it easy to look through.

6. Digitize everything. Although many clients still prefer to look at prints, there are others who prefer to look at your work online. This can be a really attractive option when you are sending work to clients who live far from you. You can either send a CD with your portfolio, or put all your stuff up online.

Write A Bibliography Using Websites

Internet sites can serve as valuable resources for research.

A bibliography contains a list of resources used to give your work credibility. Bibliographies are typically used in MLA-style format and are requirements for such assignments as research based papers. Because virtually anyone can write anything on the Internet, teachers or supervisors use these bibliographies to review your work for accuracy as well as the legitimacy of your sources. Some websites are found in databases and can be signed or unsigned. Websites that are signed display the author's name while unsigned websites do not.

Instructions

Cite a Website From a Database

1. Write the the title of the article with quotation marks and follow it with a period. For example, "The big remaining question."

2. Underline the magazine title. For example, if your magazine title was "Economist," you would underline it.

3. Mention the volume number, follow it by a period, and then add the issue number. For example, if the volume number was 387 and the issue number was 2, you would format it as 382.2.

4. Note the day, month and year the article was written and then bracket the phrase with parentheses. Follow it with a colon. For example, if the date was May 10, 2008, you would format it as (10 May 2008):.

5. Underline the name of the database, followed by a period. For example, if the database was "MAS Ultra - School Edition," you would underline it and then add a period.

6. State the name of the company and then add a period. For example, if the name of the company was "EBSCO," you would format it as EBSCO (followed by a period).

7. Indicate the library name, city, and state abbreviation you accessed the database, all separated by commas. End the phrase with a period. For example, if you accessed it at Shelbyville Middle School in Shelbyville, Indiana, you would format it as Shelbyville Middle School, Shelbyville, IN (followed by a period).

8. Include the day, month and year you accessed the website. For example, if the date was August 25, 2008, you would format it as 25 Aug. 2008.

9. Type the website address, bracketed by the "" symbols. For example, if the website was "http://search.ebscohost.com/login.aspx?direct=true&db=ulh&AN=31991461&loginpage=Login.asp&site=src-live," you would format it as (followed by a period).

Cite a Signed Website

10. Note the author's last name and first name, separated by a comma. Add a period. For example, if the author's name was Jonathon Keats, you would format it as Keats, Jonathon (followed by a period).

11. Write the website title with quotation marks, followed by a period. For example, you would format it as "Oakland Museum's Subtle Facelift" (followed by a period).

12. Type "Available at:" and then insert the website address. Add a period. For example, you would format it as Available at: http://www.sanfranmag.com/story/oakland-museum%E2%80%99s-subtle-facelift (followed by a period).

13. Cite the day, month and year you accessed the website and then end it with a period. For example, if you accessed it on May 9, 2010 you would format it as 9 May 2010 (followed by a period).

Cite an Unsigned Website

14. Record the website title enclosed in quotation marks and followed by a period. For example, "East Side Union High School District" (followed by a period).

15. Type "Available at:" and reproduce the website address. Add a period. For example: Available at: http://www.esuhsd.org/ (followed by a period).

16. State the day, month and year you accessed the website, followed by a period. For example, if you accessed it May 9, 2010, you would format it as 9 May 2010 (followed by a period).