5 Tips to Winning Patterns in the Showmanship Class

Tip 1: Look Good

Having a clean and put together appearance when you enter the show ring is something many competitors overlook. Remember, when you are standing at the gate or the first cone waiting to start your pattern the judge gets a first impression based on your appearance! If you have a flawless pattern but your outfit is wrinkled, your hair is hanging in your face and your hat is crunched you probably won't win the class unless you were miles ahead of the competition.

You don't have to be dressed fancy, just neat and clean. Have your hat cleaned and shaped regularly, make sure your clothes are not just clean but free of distracting wrinkles and have boots that match the color of your pants. Also, your hair should be pulled neatly out of your face and makeup should be professional looking and not overdone!

This goes for your horse as well. He should be as clean as possible with face and legs trimmed properly and mane and tail combed (even better: a good mane banding or braiding job will go a long way!).

Tip 2: A Good Start

Practice at home so your horse will stand square at the start cone or gate. Most of the time you will have a little longer to get your horse's feet set at the start because the previous exhibitor is running their pattern. You want to be sure that when the judges turns to you, you are ready and looking sharp!

Your horse should also walk forward readily with you when you take that first step in the pattern. Don't close your eyes and hope he does...practice this every time you walk him at home. Whether you are walking to the pasture with him or just finished riding and are cooling him out, always ask him to walk with you properly.

You never get a second chance at a first impression, so make your first steps count!

Tip 3: Use the Cones

One of the biggest problems I see with young and inexperienced exhibitors is that they don't know when to transition at a cone! Your pattern says: "Walk from cone A to cone B, Trot to cone C, stop and back 4 steps". When do you transition? For most people you should start asking your horse to transition the moment their nose reaches the cone. That way he will already be in the next gate (or stopped) by the time his shoulder gets there. That is the true transition point!

Make sure you don't ask too late! If you know it will take 4-5 steps before your horse transitions then you will want to ask a bit earlier. If your horse is so in tune that is only takes 1 step then ask a bit later.

Again, practice this at home. Even if you have to use a pop bottle as your cone, it's much better than never trying until you enter the ring!

Tip 4: Keep your distance

There is nothing a judge dislikes more than having to get out of the way of an exhibitor! If your pattern says to stop at the judge your horse's nose should be about an arm's length away by the time you have completely stopped. In this case, it is better to be a little farther away than too close.

This distance also give you enough room to move around the horse's nose if the judge walks to the left side of your horse first in his inspection.

NOTE: A small sub-point on this topic is that you should be bringing your horse to the judge. If your pattern has you walking or trotting to the judge your horse's nose should be headed straight for the judge's torso. If you look just to the left of the judge (instead of at him/her) you will line up with your horse straight!

Tip 5: Stay Sharp

In showmanship class everything is about precision. Always move with purpose and keep good posture. Although you shouldn't rush through the maneuvers, taking too much time to set up, back or pivot is considered a fault. Instead you should make sure each item is performed "sharp".

This does not mean you should nod at the judge each time you move side to side or when you exit. That looks fake!

Now Get Practicing!

Now that you have some tips to help you know what to look for, get out there are start practicing! Remember that even if you have a great showmanship horse you have to be in tune with him to make a winning showmanship pattern.

Take the time to go through each maneuver you may be required to do in your class and work on it until you can perform it with no lead rope. That is the challenge I give myself each time I work with a new horse on perfecting showmanship. If I can do it well with no lead then I know I can hit the mark in the show ring!

For more tips and info check out: www.squidoo.com/winning-patterns-for-showmanship-class1

I also list some helpful books and other sources there!

I hope this was helpful

How and Where to Buy Quality Wheat at the Best Price

Wheat is also an important source of protein in developing countries. So, if you want to know how and where to buy quality wheat at the best price, then scroll down to unveil more about it. The term 'wheat quality' cannot be specifically defined as different people will have different perspective for it. According to cultivator's perspective the good quality wheat is the one that yields them maximum benefits and from consumer's perspective it should be ideal for their specific recipe. For instance, best quality wheat for bread making is considered unsuitable for making cakes.

Basically, the attributes impacting the wheat quality can be broadly classified under two categories. Firstly, the inherent or the genetically controlled characteristics, which are difficult for a consumer to identify, like type of protein or protein quality, hardness of the grain, properties of the starch, ability to resist per-harvest germination and so on. Other category includes qualities that are affected seriously with the season like soundness of the grain, any damage caused by the weather, amount of frosted, broken, or shriveled grain present, admixture with foreign particles, insect infestation, moisture percentage and so on.

The selection criteria depends on the personal experience and jurisdiction of the consumer. There are many varieties of wheat that are available. One important thing to be considered while buying wheat is the recipe for which it has to be used, for instance it will be used for leavened or unleavened bread preparation. So, on the basis of suitability for the final end product it is classified as:

Hard wheat having hard endosperm is selected on the basis of hardness of the grain and most importantly on the basis of higher protein content. Apart from this weight of the wheat per volume and efficacy of milling are also considered. These are used for baking cracker biscuits, flat breads and Asian noodles.

Soft wheat having soft endosperm is judged on the basis of milling so as to give high yield of flour. Apart from this low protein content and grains having geometrical shapes are preferred while purchasing. This wheat is ideal for making cakes, pastries and sweet biscuits.

Durum wheat can be judged as good quality if the size of the kernels is large, color is amber and it appears translucent. This wheat variety is botanically diverse from usual bread wheat. It is mainly preferred for production of Italian pasta products that are large and flat like macaroni, spaghetti etc, therefore kernels that are diseased is not used. So, durum wheat that is yellow in color and has high protein content is used.

Now there are many online stores to cater the needs of the wheat consumers according to their needs. These online stores provide quality wheat at reasonable rate. At a glance the consumer can go through the detailed information that is provided by these stores in terms of wheat protein i.e. gluten percentage, moisture and protein percentage and other relevant information including the variety. Most of these reputed online stores can provide you with large quantities of wheat as per your demand within a nap of time.

Daily Astrology for the Week of Sept 3, 2007 - General Tendencies for All Sun Signs

Mon 9/3/07 "The Sky is Falling! The Sky is Falling!"

The hell, that was beginning to break loose yesterday, will be in full force today, and the Gemini Moon will energize it. We just may find ourselves outside running around today saying, "The sky is falling, the sky is falling." For those of you just tuning in, we are forecasting arguments, jealousy, accidents, and lots of bad-luck. Use extra caution driving, because there is a potential for accidents and road rage. We may be feeling rather restless, and the best way to focus that could be in games and puzzles. Watch out for a tendency to become too scattered. We may find ourselves going to extremes tonight, and there may be problems with opposite sex. Things will improve tomorrow.

Tue 9/4/07 Renewed Energy and Creative Discussions

We may be feeling rather edgy this morning, and that first day back to work after a three day weekend may be difficult to get started. But, by mid morning we should find that coworkers are cooperative, and we have a renewed energy. Creative projects will go well through early afternoon, and we may encounter some enlightening discussions. It will be a great day for talking, and many of us will want to catch up on email and phone conversations. We should have a lot of energy, just guard against becoming overly scattered.

Wed 9/5/07 Home and Relationships - Communicating and Cuddling

Our thoughts may turn to home and relationships today. It would be an excellent day to have that family meeting or "that talk" you have been saving for your partner. We will be ready to communicate and we will be ready to cuddle. We may also want to do some redecorating or redesigning today, with our thoughts turning toward beauty. It would be a great night for a homemade dinner.

Thu 9/6/07 Communicate Early, Quiet Afternoon and Evening

We may awaken with some new ideas this morning, and relations with the opposite sex should go well early. We may have some new ideas or be ready to try something different through early afternoon. Get communications done early today, because we will loose our focus by mid afternoon, and we probably won't feel like talking. This evening will be good for quiet contemplation, or we may want to spend some time reading or watching TV. Some deep emotional issues may emerge today, so be sure to think before you act. Those of us up late may get a new inspiration.

Fri 9/7/07 Truth Coming to Light - Pluto Turning Direct

There may be some drama today, and some truths may come to light. Some of us dealing with emotional issues may finally see the solution with Pluto, the planet excommunicated from our solar system, turning direct. It will be a great day for parties and entertainment, and many of us will want to be recognized and appreciated. It will be a great evening for conversations or short trips.

Sat 9/8/07 Relationships and Money Moving Forward Again

Venus will turn direct today -- Finally! It seems a long wait with too many of us dealing with financial limitations and hauntings of the ex's of our past. Today our relationships and our money will begin to flow forward again. Intuitions will be sharp, and we will be ready to act on our instincts. It could be a great day for romance, and we will be ready to enjoy the finer things in life. Things could be very busy this morning, and this evening will be good for social events. But, all the excitement could turn into a major melodrama in a blink of an eye. Be tactful.

Sun 9/9/07 Resentments and Sudden Outbursts

People could be feeling rather resentful today, and there may be some sudden outbursts. But, there may also be a powerful air of romance, at least until early afternoon. We may be feeling a little insecure this evening, and we may retreat to a good book or the television. But, later tonight we may get the organizing bug. It will also be a great night to catch up on conversations, so go ahead and call a friend.

Naltrexone - Not a Magic Bullet, But Still Pretty Darn Good

As the treatment of alcohol related conditions has become more sophisticated, the use of medications has too. Until recently the only commonly prescribed adjunct was disulfiram (Antabuse), an aversive drug whose use resulted in violent illness when combined with even trace amounts of alcohol. That worked for those willing to risk the results and fit well with the frequently punitive nature of many treatment regimens.

Currently, however, a preferable alternative has appeared. Naltrexone (ReVia) affects drinking behaviors in two non-aversive ways. First, it functions in somewhat the same way nicotine patches do for smokers, it cuts the craving for alcohol. Second, it interferes with the brain's feeling of wellbeing that is associated with drinking. Simply put, one has less desire to drink and none of the usual rewards from drinking.

Because of its two-pronged, but non-aversive, effects, Naltrexone has also been found to be effective in helping some people moderate their alcohol use. Obviously, with cravings gone and effects muted, many drinkers will find their consumption declining. Less drinking tends to free up time for other activities and some find themselves easing back out of alcohol abuse and dependence in much the same way they fell into it.

But it isn't a magic bullet.

The usual problems associated with any medication occur with Naltrexone too. Many people will follow their prescription for a period of time then stop, with the result that the old behaviors reassert themselves. Obviously, if the effects of drinking are curtailed, then the choice is to develop new behavior patterns, or rekindle the effects by returning to drinking. Most people find it easier to stop taking their medications than to develop new interests.

Consequently, Naltrexone, like Antabuse and Campral, works best as a support in conjunction with competent professional counseling whether the goal is abstinence or moderation. Generally speaking, this will involve short-term cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) in an outpatient setting. Ideally, the Naltrexone phase in a person's behavioral change program should last from three to six months with a gradual phase-out. The actual time will, of course, vary with different individuals, but the timing is flexible and can easily be tailored to preferences or needs.

The establishment of real change takes about a year (see Prochaska, Norcross, and DiClemente: Changing For Good) and a gradual transition away from medical and therapeutic support is usually most effective. The success that people achieve is, after all, usually based on motivation, support, knowledge, and the assumption of responsibility for their own continued wellbeing. All of these components are most effectively created with accountability and insight, along with the introduction of new and rewarding social and recreational activities.

No, Naltrexone isn't a magic bullet but it does help create a window of opportunity - a window that will close unless it is used. Opportunity with planning, activity, and support will make change possible. Initially it won't always be easy. Yes, it will be frustrating and difficult at times - just ask any ex-smoker - but a reclaimed life is a tremendous gift to give, both to yourself and those around you.

Is Chocolate Really Good For You?

Could it really be true? Can chocolate really be good for you? I was floored (and very happy) when I heard on the news recently that researchers have discovered that chocolate has some health benefits associated with it. Curiosity got the best of me and I went and did a little more research. Surprisingly, I found many articles on the web that agree with this discovery. Apparently it contains what are called flavonols, which are high in antioxidants. What is even better is that they can help lower high blood pressure and high cholesterol and potentially prevent blood clots. They can also give a mild energy boost, decrease anxiety, relieve pain, and make a person feel happier.

Now, personally, I would not recommend that you eat every candy bar and chocolate tidbit that you can find. Even if it does have some health benefits it is still high in fat content (of course there is always a downside). Also, different chocolates have different levels of flavonols. I know, it sounds strange to say that one is healthier than another however dark chocolate is healthier because it contains the highest levels of flavonols. The reason for this is because it does not go through as much processing as other chocolates. Just like vegetables, when you process it too much it loses its health benefits. When you boil or cook vegetables they lose some of their important vitamins and when you process chocolate it loses a lot of its beneficial properties.

We all know that chocolate probably is not the best snack for those of us that are watching our waistlines. However, for those of us that have an insatiable craving for it, this is really good news. Maybe now we can relax just a little bit while we enjoy it (in moderation of course). I know I will not feel quite as guilty now about sneaking a piece or two of dark chocolate every now and then.

Alabama Land Investments - Three Reasons Why Alabama Land May Be a Smart Move For Your Pocket

Alabama is a beautiful state, filled with just about everything pertaining to natural beauty that a person could hope for. There are timber woods, lakes, rivers, streams, and beautiful vistas that any person could appreciate. Alabama land investments are ideal for this reason and many others; not only is Alabama land effective for investment purposes but it may also work for personal purchases as well. Consider the many reasons why an Alabama land investment may be a smart idea for you. Here are three reasons to get you started.

Alabama is Full of Timber Land

Timber land is one of the greatest natural resources found in Alabama land. For those who don't know, timber land is just what it sounds like-land that is used for timber wood. Timber wood is always in demand as people are building things every day, and wood is an integral part of the building process. Those who invest in Alabama land may want to consider investing in timber land, as it is a great investment in both land and a product that is found growing on land.

Alabama Land Is Virtually Recession Proof

There is no secret about the fact that the economy is in jeopardy these days, and people are afraid to invest as they normally would. There is nothing wrong with that, as investing is about knowing when it is smart to do so, when it is not smart to do so, and ways to invest when things may not be looking so good for you or the economy financially.

Alabama is a great investment for those who are looking to find a way to continue making investments even when times seem hard. Even if it is not immediately sellable, there is nothing wrong with holding onto the land until the right purchaser comes along-especially if it holds special natural resources like the timber land that Alabama is noted for.

Alabama Land is Multi Purpose

One of the most special things about Alabama land is that it can be used for many things. Those that like to hunt can make use of Alabama land, as well as those who are interested in using land for commercial development. Unlike many of the other states in America, Alabama is full of open spaces that are relatively easy to clear out for commercial purposes. When it comes camping and other recreation as well, Alabama land is ideal. It's easy to see that such land can be used for a variety of things, and variety is key when it comes to being able to flip Alabama land and turn it into a smart investment.

ATV Riding - A Growing Family Sport

There is certainly no doubt about it - ATV riding has become one of the fastest growing sports in town and it's popularity is gaining great momentum each year. This is the kind of entertainment that suits just about anyone in the family - from the kids to the teenagers to the parents and in some cases, even to the grandparents! There is just so much enthusiasm and positive response toward ATV riding and a lot of people are becoming more receptive to the idea of riding an ATV. The number of people joining in ATV races and riding contests especially the kids shows that ATV riding is definitely here to stay.

However, with such increase of interest in ATV riding, it is important that the general public is made aware of the basic rules of ATV riding. Most first timers to the racetracks are eager to win and ride with speed that they forget the basic rules of ATV riding. If you are bringing your kid to his or her first racing experience, it is your duty to ensure that they understand and follow the rules and regulations of racing. It has always been a thumb rule that ATV riders are to be polite and nice to each other on the racetrack - even if you are all charged up to win the race. The race will not be fun anymore if we have racers who refuse to adhere to such a simple rule. Remember, if you do not teach your kids "good manners" on the racetrack, they could endanger their own lives as well as the lives of the other ATV riders.

I can not stress the importance of safety in ATV riding, and being in a race does not mean that you can violate the safety issues involved. We strongly discourage riders from swearing at each other or showing unruly behavior or signs when they are in the racetracks. Such behaviors are intolerable and offensive to other fellow ATV riders. Be sure that you tell your kids that they are required to "stick by the rules" - at all times. For more rules and safety regulations while riding an ATV, you could visit our website at http://www.jackel.com or one of the popular ATV sites at http://www.atvoutdoors.net

There is also one trick that you should never pull while you are in a race - that is, the "dusting" trick. Dusting means riding on high speed past other ATV riders and leaving a cloud of dust on the faces of the other riders. This trick is only funny when you are riding with your own friends, but it is definitely not funny to those whom you do not know, so never try to pull a stunt like this one on the racetracks. If you are really keen to show off some of your ATV riding skills or tricks, try some of those that will not offend the other riders.

Also, if you happen to ride past another rider and you see that he or she is having problems with his or her machine, you should at least stop and ask if they need help. Don't just ride by them as if you didn't notice them at all. If you were in their shoes, wouldn't you feel grateful if another fellow rider stopped by to help?

ATV riding is one great way for family entertainment but it can only be a lot more fun when everyone involved knows and follows the basic rules. Don't try to be different by ignoring the rules of ATV riding. It is always better to go with the flow in this case than against it!

Entertaining In A Pinch

You likely heard the expression, it never rains - it pours. That happens every once in a while to all of us. When we are at our busiest, one more thing gets added to our list. Perhaps you have to make something for a recital, or you get a call that out-of-town company is coming. Here are some tips to diffuse that feeling of panic that starts to raise its head.

1. Make a plan, and write it down. Start planning what you will make and start making some lists. For some reason, writing it out makes you realize it is all very do-able. Seeing it written out makes you feel more in control. Make lists of what you will make, what you need to pick up, and slot a time when you will do it.

2. Keep it simple. The focus is not on what you are eating but on your time together. So if you don't have time to make a big meal, just a pot of soup will do. Or you don't have to make everything homemade. In my case, I am cooking for 9 so I will be cooking a ham. That is simple as my oven does all the work. We just pulled our garden for the winter, so we are serving fresh potatoes and carrots right from the garden.

3. Choose things you can make ahead of time. Whether you have a few hours or a day or two, plan to make ahead as much as you can. Rather than choose a green salad, I will be making a bean salad because I can make that the day before.

Plus Do as much as you can ahead of time, such as setting the table the night before. The more you can do before your guests arrive, the more calm and relaxed you will feel. Plus, it gets you in the party mood!

4. Delegate. You don't have to make everything. If you have friends or family coming, why not ask them to bring one thing, whether it be buns, salad, veggie, or pickles. It doesn't matter what it is and they won't mind. Everyone loves to contribute. After all, the joy is in giving. Plus it adds to the feeling of community.

5. Stick with tried and true. "They" say that this is not the time to experiment. "They" say to make things you know will turn out, and "they" are probably right.

But this is where I lay bare my fault. For some reason, I falter here. Every time we have company I am always making something I have never made before.

I have friends that have a repertoire of recipes and menus they fall on when company comes. Things that they could make blind-folded, I am sure. I keep thinking I should do that too, but for some reason I throw in something new. There is always some thing that caught my interest and I am dying to try. Maybe I love the spontaneity of it. I really need to be cooking for a crew all of the time rather than for just two. Cooking for just Ken and myself (we are empty nesters) doesn't allow me the opportunity to cook that much anymore. When I make a dish, we end up eating it or a week. So my pile of recipes-I-want-to-try keeps growing bigger. Getting company is an opportunity to try them out. This time I am making a new dessert, but I chose it because it is easy and I can make it the day before. So, if it doesn't turn out, I still have time to make something else.

But frankly, it doesn't bother me if something doesn't turn out. It usually is only one dish that is new and unknown, no big deal. It adds to the excitement and fun. Plus, eating at my place will never be boring. It will always be a surprise and we are learning something new, a new winner or what NOT to make.

So if you have to entertain in a pinch, following these 5 (or 4) simple steps will turn your feelings of panic into pleasurable anticipation. My guests are bringing a power point presentation of their pictures from Africa, so we are looking forward to the evening very much. Now you know who my guests are... my sister from Africa and lots of family. Oh, and we just got a call and are adding another place setting to the table... no sweat!

How Does a Van Hire Benefit You?

Often, it is when you are moving to a new building that you would realize that intentionally or not you have stored quite a lot of items during your period of stay in your old building. And to make it worse, most of them would be too precious to be left behind or gifted by your loved ones which again make them priceless. And then you find out that your car is actually inadequate to move all these items at one go. What other option do you have but to search for a conveyance that can move all of them on a single trip without going back and forth collecting the remaining items? A van hire can solve these problems very easily.

Hiring a van has several benefits that you might not find with any other vehicles. Apart from the obvious benefit of carrying a lot more baggage than what could be contained in your car, vans are easier to manage than the large trucks and less expensive as well. They come in different sizes ranging from the small ones in which you can carry your wardrobe items to the big ones wherein you could take your whole furniture.

Vans are not as expensive as you imagine them to be, at least not at all as expensive as a truck. With a little extra than what it would require for a car, which anyway you would have to drive a multiple number of times to move all the items to the new place, you can hire a van very easily. Moreover, for driving a van of any size all you need is your regular driving license.

Hiring a van is now is not at all difficult as it was before. You'll find plenty of providers that offer van hire at very affordable prices. If you search online there are many websites that offer van hire services. Quality companies would also provide a fire and theft insurance that lets you drive peacefully without any anxieties. This way even if you had the misfortune of facing an accident you have no financial worries.

Most of the van hire companies now bring the vehicle at your place from which you can take it ahead. Once you finish your task you can let them know and they'll come and pick it up. Isn't it convenient and easy? An ideal van hire would bring you a vehicle of high performance at less expense and more storage space.