Sunday, May 27, 2012
Sunday, May 20, 2012
Take Your Pick - Singapore or Hong Kong?
Two lively Southeast Asian locales are featured- Singapore and Hong Kong. They were also two former British colonies. Both cities are surely two of the liveliest in Asia. If you had to choose between going to either one of these two places, which would you choose? This is another installment of my "Take Your Pick" series of blog posts, where I encourage my readers to share which is better. So let's do it!
^ "City by City - Singapore (HD)"
The city-state of Singapore is a lively and eccentric city, not to mention very beautiful. My racing fans know Singapore for the annual Formula 1 night race around the Marina Bay district of Singapore.
^ "City by City Hong Kong In HD"
Often seen as the New York City of the Far East, Hong Kong remains one of the world's liveliest cities. I have always seen Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China as an exciting city. I think it is one of the most futuristic-looking cities. I often get blog hits from Hong Kong from all kinds of districts of Hong Kong. The only tower I'm familiar with is the tall IFC (International Finance Center) building that dominates most of Hong Kong's skyline.
A thing I learned about Hong Kong is that its flag bears a flower called the Bauhinia blakeana. By the way, the full official name for Hong Kong is: Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China.
So you now know about these two unique locales. Which is better?
On the blogging side, Singapore is home to two bloggers I follow- missingavenue and Xiaxue. missingavenue is a fashion blog of a young blogger named Melody expressing multiple styles of hers. Xiaxue is a veteran fashion blogger proudly representing Singapore. Her material includes fashion and beauty.
IN CASE YOU'RE INTERESTED:
• missingavenue
• Xiaxue.blogspot.com - Everyone's reading it.
Hong Kong is the hometown of one of my favorite bloggers, Miss Kwong. This is a fashion blog
IN CASE YOU'RE INTERESTED:
• Miss Kwong
So take YOUR pick of these two cities! Which do you like better? Thank you for reading!
--- Take Your Pick: Singapore or Hong Kong? ---
Which do you think is the cooler city? Visit the hypertext links in the headings to visit each city's official travel website. And, uh... TAKE YOUR PICK!Take Your Pick: Singapore.
Here is a YouTube video (or two) showcasing Singapore:^ "City by City - Singapore (HD)"
The city-state of Singapore is a lively and eccentric city, not to mention very beautiful. My racing fans know Singapore for the annual Formula 1 night race around the Marina Bay district of Singapore.
Take Your Pick: Hong Kong, S.A.R., China.
So you've seen Singapore. What about Hong Kong, though? Here's your Hong Kong love right here:^ "City by City Hong Kong In HD"
Often seen as the New York City of the Far East, Hong Kong remains one of the world's liveliest cities. I have always seen Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China as an exciting city. I think it is one of the most futuristic-looking cities. I often get blog hits from Hong Kong from all kinds of districts of Hong Kong. The only tower I'm familiar with is the tall IFC (International Finance Center) building that dominates most of Hong Kong's skyline.
A thing I learned about Hong Kong is that its flag bears a flower called the Bauhinia blakeana. By the way, the full official name for Hong Kong is: Hong Kong, Special Administrative Region, China.
So you now know about these two unique locales. Which is better?
--- Singapore or Hong Kong? ---
Both cities are nothing short of spectacular. I would go to both if I were traveling around the world.Why Singapore?
Singapore has its own unique character. I usually think of the merlion statues shooting water into bays and fountains. They are a spectacular sight. Speaking of spectacular, the city looks amazing at night.On the blogging side, Singapore is home to two bloggers I follow- missingavenue and Xiaxue. missingavenue is a fashion blog of a young blogger named Melody expressing multiple styles of hers. Xiaxue is a veteran fashion blogger proudly representing Singapore. Her material includes fashion and beauty.
IN CASE YOU'RE INTERESTED:
• missingavenue
• Xiaxue.blogspot.com - Everyone's reading it.
Why Hong Kong?
I tend to like Hong Kong as it is a very futuristic city. Just watch when Hong Kong has some of its laser light shows when it's nighttime. Hong Kong is very futuristic.Hong Kong is the hometown of one of my favorite bloggers, Miss Kwong. This is a fashion blog
IN CASE YOU'RE INTERESTED:
• Miss Kwong
Which Would I Choose?
It is very close to call. If I HAD to choose one or the other, I'd probably go with Hong Kong; but I think both places are amazing.So take YOUR pick of these two cities! Which do you like better? Thank you for reading!
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Thursday, May 17, 2012
Crossdressing
WARNING: This topic may not be suitable for all audiences. Read at your own discretion.
Crossdressing is a "vacation" from our own normal lives to dress and live as someone opposite of our birth gender. Many people misconstrue crossdressing as a concept and what it actually entails. Crossdressing has its own appeal and charm to those who take part in crossdressing. The reasons for taking part in crossdressing vary- casual crossdressing, professional crossdressing, and yes- even for sexual pleasure. No matter what, it is a lifestyle and a culture that most people either disregard, disrespect, or misunderstand. In my attempts to try to better educate my audience and to provide something useful on crossdressing and crossdressers, I offer the Internet this blog post.
I have certain goals I hope to accomplish with this blog post:
• factually discuss crossdressing/transvestism.
• gain a little more understanding of crossdressing/transvestism to better service my audience.
• (maybe) gain some respect among my LGBT readers, especially the "T" part for this post.
• (maybe) meet some loyal readers who may be among the LGBT community.
I am not a crossdresser, nor have I ever done so. I am basing all of my material on things I've learned on this topic through factual proof and research as well as personal commentary.
What some people disregard is that there is a HUGE difference between transvestism (clinical term for crossdressing) and transsexualism. A transvestite (TV) or a crossdresser (CD) is someone who temporarily lives and dresses as a member of the gender opposite of his/her birth gender. A transvestite does not want to have surgery to permanently become the person's opposite gender. A transsexual has full surgery to permanently live as and become a member of the gender opposite of one's birth gender. Could a crossdresser/transvestite consider having surgery to permanently become a member of his/her opposite gender? Sure- especially if that person feels he/she was born in the wrong body.
Some people who engage in crossdressing will spend money towards buying great clothes to help unleash their inner person. Some others even go to the level of purchase certain items like wigs, hosiery, and even health supplements to help enhance themselves in becoming crossdressers. In addition to products, there are also certain techniques crossdressers use to help them transition better. I will not discuss those tactics in this blog post, but I will make a mention things like (for M2F crossdressers) tucking- which can be an integral part in M2F crossdressers wearing body-hugging or body-conscious clothing.
• There are those who casually wear clothing from the other gender, and there are those who crossdress for profession. A male may choose to wear feminine clothing and completely transform himself into another person. A man named Michael (for hypothetical purposes) may have a hidden person waiting to emerge named Michelle (again- hypothetical purposes).
• There are those who professionally crossdress. Female impersonators, drag queens, and even actors/actresses dress up as members of the opposite gender to play roles, compete in contests, and other purposes in making money.
• And so I don't forget, there are those who crossdress for sexual thrills. Some people are sexually aroused either wearing clothing from the opposite gender. Such people have fetishes wearing clothes from the other gender.
Regardless, crossdressing is a very risky lifestyle that has its own rewards for those who enjoy doing so.
That concludes this look at crossdressing/transvestism. Time to move on to other material.
• "All crossdressers are gay."
So if a male casually puts on a skirt or a dress, he is automatically considered gay? Here's a fact- males who crossdress may be straight. They may be happily married men/women as well as proud parents. You can't automatically call someone gay just because they crossdress. Certain people are only gay if you think only gay people dress up in clothes most average or what "regular" people wouldn't wear.
• "Crossdresser? Transsexual? Same thing, right?"
Uh... NO! If you read the previous section, there is a HUGE difference between transvestism/crossdressing and transsexualism. The common factor is in living as and dressing up as a member of a sex opposite of our birth gender. The biggest difference is in the desire to PERMANENTLY become a member of our opposite gender. Transsexuals are permanent members of their opposite sex; transvestites/crossdressers are part-time members of their opposite sex.
• "Transvestite/Crossdresser = Intersexed."
Being intersexed is a completely different concept. Intersexed people have both male and female chromosomes and internals. It is COMPLETELY different from someone who crossdresses or has had surgery to become a member of one's opposite gender.
• Crossdressers are "freaks."
The only way they can be real freaks is if you think of them as monsters and not as people. Fact is- crossdressers are every bit of human beings as you and I. Maybe their lifestyle is different from the norm. There are people (for example) who indulge themselves in subcultures like Goth or punk. Are they "freaks" just because they live a lifestyle vastly different from everybody else? Well, neither are crossdressers.
These are some misconceptions I came up with. Can you think of any others?
^ from: www.sexandgender.net (best I could find) - She may not be a real woman, but this guy surely enjoys being this girl on a part-time basis.
I will define a casual crossdresser as anyone who crossdresses for reasons other than profession or sexual thrills. I am talking about the person who lives as one person, but sometimes emerges as someone of his/her opposite gender. Someone who casually crossdresses has a tendency to want to be someone else. Remember my "Michael" example? You know, the hypothetical Michael who has a female alterego (also hypothetically) named Michelle?
Someone who casually crossdresses just enjoys going out as one's gender opposite of his/her birth gender. Such people enjoy the feeling and the joy of being that other person. A male-to-female crossdresser (or M2F crossdresser) would enjoy wearing feminine garments out and about. He feels a sort of empowerment and comfort being and dressed as a female. On the other end, a female-to-male crossdresser (or F2M crossdresser) enjoys living and acting as a male while wearing masculine clothes.
A casual crossdresser simply enjoys the thrill and joy of temporarily being someone of one's gender opposite of his/her birth gender. That person is confident in his/her dress and personality that he/she is actually able to pull off being a crossdresser.
^ from: thesun.co.uk (best I could find) - Drag queens are among the most famous of those who crossdress as a profession.
Acting roles, pageants, competitions, and more... I will define a professional crossdresser as someone who crossdresses for a profession and/or for money. The most common professional crossdressers are drag queens. Drag queens are beautiful women with immense glamour and charm... only they are not real women. They even give themselves interesting and unique stage names to set themselves apart from other drag queens. Drag queens wear all sorts of clothing and accessories, even including certain intimates and parts I can't mention here. Perhaps one of the most famous YouTube crossdressers is Jessica De Leon, better known as "JessicaWhoHD." Here is a sample of JessicaWhoHD:
^ "My YouTube Story Part I - Why I Make Videos"
Want more of Jessica? To visit Jessica De Leon's YouTube channel, visit JessicaWhoHD on YouTube.
Some male actors have taken on female characters. Some examples in the realm of TV and entertainment include the likes of Robin Williams as Mrs. Doubtfire, Tyler Perry playing as Madea, Martin Lawrence as Sheneneh, and Martin Lawrence as Big Momma, among various other roles. Anyone who knows drag queens know one figure as a deity- RuPaul.
Some people dress up as fictional characters of the opposite gender. I am mostly talking about those who cosplay as certain characters of the opposite gender. For example, a genetic male may dress up for a convention or a contest as a female character he loves. Likewise, a genetic female may dress up as a male character she loves.
When you consider there are people who love crossdressing and make money doing it, you gauge how special it feels to do what you love and profit from it. This goes back to me talking about lifestyles and professions people may not necessarily like. If such personalities enjoy crossdressing and are profiting from it, who are you to argue against or tell them how to live their lives?
There are some people who enjoy crossdressing for sexual pleasure. Such crossdressers enjoy crossdressing by engaging in kinky sex acts or engaging in various sexual behaviors. I want to keep my blog as world-friendly (my term for "safe for work/school") as possible, so I will not delve into any deeper details.
No matter what one's crossdressing desires are, one thing is important- the ability to return to going back to one's normal life and one's normal self. Crossdressing is a "vacation" where we become someone of our birth gender to live and dress as someone of the gender opposite of our birth. It isn't permanently being a member of a certain sex like with transsexuals.
These are only among some of the many different roadblocks of crossdressing.
Crossdressing is a lifestyle that people will either appreciate or disapprove. It is as much worthy of like or dislike as any other lifestyle or culture. Among the many aspects of crossdressing, many people disregard or misconstrue certain aspects of crossdressers and crossdressing. Among the biggest ones is that crossdressers are not transsexuals. They are transgenders, but there is a big difference between crossdressing and transsexualism. It is also vastly misconstrued that all crossdressers are gay just because they live and dress as members of their oppposite sex. Transvestites simply take a vacation from their birth gender to live and dress as their opposite gender. And just like any vacation, any crossdresser wants to go from being one person to go back to being their own normal selves.
Taking part in crossdressing is because of certain factors ranging from casual crossdressing, to professional crossdressing, and even going to crossdressing for sexual pleasure. The reasons and pleasures vary among those who crossdress, but it has its appeal for all who take part in crossdressing.
If you want to learn more about crossdressing or find some various resources, I can help you right here. I've looked all of these sites and can tell you that while some may feature material that may not be suitable for all audiences, no adult sites are featured here. Each of the featured web sites are offered for educational and entertainment purposes.
• Laura's Playground (Crossdresser link)
Laura's Playground is the Internet's most well-respected resource on almost anything transgender. The link (relevant to this blog post) links you to the Crossdressing resources of Laura's Playground. It is recommended you click on the link if you want to read specifically about crossdressers. If you want to read about transgender issues for youth (including crossdressing), use this link: Laura's Playground (Teens link). If you want to visit the main site, which links to information on all varieties of transgenders, use this link: Laura's Playground (main site).
• Susan's Place Transgender Resources for Transsexual/Transgender Communities (Crossdressing link)
Including both resources and an online message board, Susan's Place has many resources for transgender people. It even includes resources for crossdressers, which the above link takes you.
You may visit the main site by using this link: Susan's Place Transgender Resources for Transsexual/Transgender Communities.
• www.crossdressers.com/
A online forum devoted to crossdressing.
• Crossdresser Heaven
A website offering tips and resources for M2F crossdressers.
• Crossdressing Freedom
A website with many resources including stories, pictures, videos, advice, and more. It is run by a crossdresser who calls herself Zoe Freedom.
• UltraCrossdresser
Called "the ultimate crossdresser/transvestite guide," this site features many resources for crossdressers both new and experienced. Gain some knowledge and some insight if you are crossdressing or want to know more about crossdressing.
• A Crossdresser's Secret Garden
A resource site for crossdressers/transvestites and those who know them.
• The Gender Society
A social network and resource site devoted to transgenders (including crossdressers/transvestites).
• Cross-dress.com
This is one of the different sites to visit where you can get some accessories and items if you're a crossdresser.
• Crossdressing: Lingerie for Men, Men's Lace, Men's Satin & Panties
This is an online store with many items for M2F crossdressers.
• Crossdressing, Transgender, and Crossdresser Clothing and Accessories
An online store with various items for crossdressers.
I may include more links to better service my audience based on traffic or interest to this post. If you would like to suggest some sites to me that may be of interest to my readers, please contact me via E-mail. I review sites and will feature only material that I think my readers can benefit from and are not suspicious sites of any kind. Use the table at the conclusion of this post to contact me.
That concludes my blog post on crossdressing. I hope you were able to have a different understanding of crossdressers/transvestites after reading this post and checking out some of the resources I've posted. I may consider doing a related topic to this one in the future. So make sure you're subscribed and/or Following John's Blog Space. Not followed, but you love my blog? Then PLEASE subscribe to my blog!
More than ever... thank you for reading!
Crossdressing is a "vacation" from our own normal lives to dress and live as someone opposite of our birth gender. Many people misconstrue crossdressing as a concept and what it actually entails. Crossdressing has its own appeal and charm to those who take part in crossdressing. The reasons for taking part in crossdressing vary- casual crossdressing, professional crossdressing, and yes- even for sexual pleasure. No matter what, it is a lifestyle and a culture that most people either disregard, disrespect, or misunderstand. In my attempts to try to better educate my audience and to provide something useful on crossdressing and crossdressers, I offer the Internet this blog post.
Before I Begin and a Special Hello...
If you are a crossdresser or know someone who crossdresses, and if you're viewing my blog post; I'd like to welcome you to "John's Blog Space!" I hope you can enjoy this blog post here as much as I've enjoyed working on it. This is a positive place online. I am not posting this just to get some laughs or draw a reaction. This is a factual post on crossdressing from multiple perspectives. The majority of this post relates to male-to-female crossdressers (M2F crossdressers), but there are also female-to-male crossdressers (F2M crossdressers).I have certain goals I hope to accomplish with this blog post:
• factually discuss crossdressing/transvestism.
• gain a little more understanding of crossdressing/transvestism to better service my audience.
• (maybe) gain some respect among my LGBT readers, especially the "T" part for this post.
• (maybe) meet some loyal readers who may be among the LGBT community.
I am not a crossdresser, nor have I ever done so. I am basing all of my material on things I've learned on this topic through factual proof and research as well as personal commentary.
--- Crossdressing at a Glance ---
Those who have been on "John's Blog Space" before may have read some past posts of mine that touched up on transgenderism before. Many others have seen me make mention of males wearing feminine fashions. What you are about to read here is a proper post regarding crossdressing. Because I need to continually provide quality content for this blog and to re-direct my blog traffic to more relevant posts, I present to you my post regarding crossdressing.What some people disregard is that there is a HUGE difference between transvestism (clinical term for crossdressing) and transsexualism. A transvestite (TV) or a crossdresser (CD) is someone who temporarily lives and dresses as a member of the gender opposite of his/her birth gender. A transvestite does not want to have surgery to permanently become the person's opposite gender. A transsexual has full surgery to permanently live as and become a member of the gender opposite of one's birth gender. Could a crossdresser/transvestite consider having surgery to permanently become a member of his/her opposite gender? Sure- especially if that person feels he/she was born in the wrong body.
Some people who engage in crossdressing will spend money towards buying great clothes to help unleash their inner person. Some others even go to the level of purchase certain items like wigs, hosiery, and even health supplements to help enhance themselves in becoming crossdressers. In addition to products, there are also certain techniques crossdressers use to help them transition better. I will not discuss those tactics in this blog post, but I will make a mention things like (for M2F crossdressers) tucking- which can be an integral part in M2F crossdressers wearing body-hugging or body-conscious clothing.
Reasons for Crossdressing.
I briefly mentioned reasons why others crossdress. Here is a brief look at each:• There are those who casually wear clothing from the other gender, and there are those who crossdress for profession. A male may choose to wear feminine clothing and completely transform himself into another person. A man named Michael (for hypothetical purposes) may have a hidden person waiting to emerge named Michelle (again- hypothetical purposes).
• There are those who professionally crossdress. Female impersonators, drag queens, and even actors/actresses dress up as members of the opposite gender to play roles, compete in contests, and other purposes in making money.
• And so I don't forget, there are those who crossdress for sexual thrills. Some people are sexually aroused either wearing clothing from the opposite gender. Such people have fetishes wearing clothes from the other gender.
Regardless, crossdressing is a very risky lifestyle that has its own rewards for those who enjoy doing so.
A Past Experience.
I probably mentioned this in my blog, but there was one time back in 2007 when I became friends with a transvestite. One time after class at my community college, I noticed a male in a Men's bathroom who had beautiful long hair. I eventually got to know him a bit. He was a male named (I try to be VERY careful giving deep details) Darrell. While being the handsome Darrell, his transvestite alter ego is Brittney. I met "Brittney" one day around campus. I was friends with this person as he was having some problems. I let Darrell know that he could chat with me if he had issues. To this day, this person is the ONLY transvestite I've ever known in person.That concludes this look at crossdressing/transvestism. Time to move on to other material.
--- Crossdressing Misconceptions ---
Everything in life has misconceptions. Crossdressing is no different. Each bullet features a certain misconception followed by my own commentary.• "All crossdressers are gay."
So if a male casually puts on a skirt or a dress, he is automatically considered gay? Here's a fact- males who crossdress may be straight. They may be happily married men/women as well as proud parents. You can't automatically call someone gay just because they crossdress. Certain people are only gay if you think only gay people dress up in clothes most average or what "regular" people wouldn't wear.
• "Crossdresser? Transsexual? Same thing, right?"
Uh... NO! If you read the previous section, there is a HUGE difference between transvestism/crossdressing and transsexualism. The common factor is in living as and dressing up as a member of a sex opposite of our birth gender. The biggest difference is in the desire to PERMANENTLY become a member of our opposite gender. Transsexuals are permanent members of their opposite sex; transvestites/crossdressers are part-time members of their opposite sex.
• "Transvestite/Crossdresser = Intersexed."
Being intersexed is a completely different concept. Intersexed people have both male and female chromosomes and internals. It is COMPLETELY different from someone who crossdresses or has had surgery to become a member of one's opposite gender.
• Crossdressers are "freaks."
The only way they can be real freaks is if you think of them as monsters and not as people. Fact is- crossdressers are every bit of human beings as you and I. Maybe their lifestyle is different from the norm. There are people (for example) who indulge themselves in subcultures like Goth or punk. Are they "freaks" just because they live a lifestyle vastly different from everybody else? Well, neither are crossdressers.
These are some misconceptions I came up with. Can you think of any others?
--- Crossdressing and its Reasons ---
Here now is a look at crossdressing from various perspectives. Each section is complete with my own thoughts on each bit of crossdressing.Crossdressing: Casual.
^ from: www.sexandgender.net (best I could find) - She may not be a real woman, but this guy surely enjoys being this girl on a part-time basis.
I will define a casual crossdresser as anyone who crossdresses for reasons other than profession or sexual thrills. I am talking about the person who lives as one person, but sometimes emerges as someone of his/her opposite gender. Someone who casually crossdresses has a tendency to want to be someone else. Remember my "Michael" example? You know, the hypothetical Michael who has a female alterego (also hypothetically) named Michelle?
Someone who casually crossdresses just enjoys going out as one's gender opposite of his/her birth gender. Such people enjoy the feeling and the joy of being that other person. A male-to-female crossdresser (or M2F crossdresser) would enjoy wearing feminine garments out and about. He feels a sort of empowerment and comfort being and dressed as a female. On the other end, a female-to-male crossdresser (or F2M crossdresser) enjoys living and acting as a male while wearing masculine clothes.
A casual crossdresser simply enjoys the thrill and joy of temporarily being someone of one's gender opposite of his/her birth gender. That person is confident in his/her dress and personality that he/she is actually able to pull off being a crossdresser.
Crossdressing: Profession.
^ from: thesun.co.uk (best I could find) - Drag queens are among the most famous of those who crossdress as a profession.
Acting roles, pageants, competitions, and more... I will define a professional crossdresser as someone who crossdresses for a profession and/or for money. The most common professional crossdressers are drag queens. Drag queens are beautiful women with immense glamour and charm... only they are not real women. They even give themselves interesting and unique stage names to set themselves apart from other drag queens. Drag queens wear all sorts of clothing and accessories, even including certain intimates and parts I can't mention here. Perhaps one of the most famous YouTube crossdressers is Jessica De Leon, better known as "JessicaWhoHD." Here is a sample of JessicaWhoHD:
^ "My YouTube Story Part I - Why I Make Videos"
Want more of Jessica? To visit Jessica De Leon's YouTube channel, visit JessicaWhoHD on YouTube.
Some male actors have taken on female characters. Some examples in the realm of TV and entertainment include the likes of Robin Williams as Mrs. Doubtfire, Tyler Perry playing as Madea, Martin Lawrence as Sheneneh, and Martin Lawrence as Big Momma, among various other roles. Anyone who knows drag queens know one figure as a deity- RuPaul.
Some people dress up as fictional characters of the opposite gender. I am mostly talking about those who cosplay as certain characters of the opposite gender. For example, a genetic male may dress up for a convention or a contest as a female character he loves. Likewise, a genetic female may dress up as a male character she loves.
When you consider there are people who love crossdressing and make money doing it, you gauge how special it feels to do what you love and profit from it. This goes back to me talking about lifestyles and professions people may not necessarily like. If such personalities enjoy crossdressing and are profiting from it, who are you to argue against or tell them how to live their lives?
Crossdressing: Sexual Thrills.
It is obvious I should open this section by saying that this section may be discomforting for some members of my reading audience. So skip to the next section or read carefully.There are some people who enjoy crossdressing for sexual pleasure. Such crossdressers enjoy crossdressing by engaging in kinky sex acts or engaging in various sexual behaviors. I want to keep my blog as world-friendly (my term for "safe for work/school") as possible, so I will not delve into any deeper details.
No matter what one's crossdressing desires are, one thing is important- the ability to return to going back to one's normal life and one's normal self. Crossdressing is a "vacation" where we become someone of our birth gender to live and dress as someone of the gender opposite of our birth. It isn't permanently being a member of a certain sex like with transsexuals.
--- Crossdressing Roadblocks ---
It is easy to be a crossdresser, right? No. There are certain obstacles that prevent or hinder most would-be crossdressers from doing or enjoying crossdressing. Here are some of the multiple roadblocks:Inconfident About Emerging.
If you are educated in some way about transgender people, you might have heard expressions regarding "closet" transgenders. The expression regarding closet transgenders relates to those who crossdress but don't crossdress outside of home. So they mostly wear clothing from the opposite sex mostly around the house or in their bedroom. Not every crossdresser confidently leaves home dressed and living as a member of one's opposite gender. And therefore, not every crossdresser is confident enough to come out and let that inner person emerge.Family Issues.
A male may be able to comfortably wear clothing from a female family member; but of course, certain family members may reject the notion of a male wearing female clothing. This can be an issue among family members. A crossdresser's desire to wear clothing could begin by wearing clothes from (in the case of M2F crossdressers) a male wearing clothing from female family members. Certain family members would detest of siblings or other family members crossdressing. These desires can be a roadblock for those who are crossdressing with clothing from other family members.Romantic Issues.
This is perhaps the most damaging part of crossdressing desires. If you are a male wearing your girlfriend's/fianceé's/wife's clothes, your better half will likely be disgusted. Remember the misconception I posted about crossdressers being gay? It isn't easy for males to try to crossdress in fear of upsetting their lover or spouse. Certain relationships can fall apart thanks to things like this. Understanding lovers usually can set something up to where a crossdresser can enjoy crossdressing while still being together. A crossdresser can still enjoy being that other person while still being a good lover/spouse or even a parent.Fear of Being/Looking Awkward.
Being passable is a quality many transgendered folk dream of. Some do not want to try crossdressing for fear of looking awkward. It takes confidence to wear such clothes and to act a certain way out and about. If it were easy to crossdress with confidence, we all would be crossdressing and love doing so!Fear of Being Abused or Attacked.
One transgendered person's worst fear is in being abused or beaten, especially when one is unaware of someone not being born of a certain gender. While this is more prevalent among transsexuals, crossdressers could also suffer the same violent fate, especially if someone wants to be with someone else to whom is oblivious one is a transvestite or a transsexual. Not disclosing info about your gender can lead to violent consequences among those who exhibit violent behavior towards transgenders.These are only among some of the many different roadblocks of crossdressing.
--- Final Thoughts on Crossdressing ---
Crossdressing is a misunderstood concept for many people. Throughout my entire explaining of crossdressing, never have I mentioned that it is right or wrong to crossdress. I have never criticized or attacked people who do crossdressing. All I have done through this post is discuss crossdressing on a professional and unbiased manner.Crossdressing is a lifestyle that people will either appreciate or disapprove. It is as much worthy of like or dislike as any other lifestyle or culture. Among the many aspects of crossdressing, many people disregard or misconstrue certain aspects of crossdressers and crossdressing. Among the biggest ones is that crossdressers are not transsexuals. They are transgenders, but there is a big difference between crossdressing and transsexualism. It is also vastly misconstrued that all crossdressers are gay just because they live and dress as members of their oppposite sex. Transvestites simply take a vacation from their birth gender to live and dress as their opposite gender. And just like any vacation, any crossdresser wants to go from being one person to go back to being their own normal selves.
Taking part in crossdressing is because of certain factors ranging from casual crossdressing, to professional crossdressing, and even going to crossdressing for sexual pleasure. The reasons and pleasures vary among those who crossdress, but it has its appeal for all who take part in crossdressing.
--- Crossdressing Resources ---
I said this was a factual post on crossdressing. I never said, however, it was the definitive post on crossdressing. All of my information was based on however much I know and understand about crossdressing. I had to do some research for some extra information. Remember that this blog post is a proper post about crossdressing and not just simply wearing clothes from the other gender. It's about dressing up as and living as a member of the opposite sex here. And with these resources online, you crossdressers (or those who want to know more about crossdressing) will find various resources to help you understand or enhance your crossdressing.If you want to learn more about crossdressing or find some various resources, I can help you right here. I've looked all of these sites and can tell you that while some may feature material that may not be suitable for all audiences, no adult sites are featured here. Each of the featured web sites are offered for educational and entertainment purposes.
Crossdressing Resources: Basic Resources.
These sites offer advice, educational content, online communities, and more for crossdressers and those wanting to know more about them. I advise that anyone looking to learn more about this and looking for more factual proof visit these links.• Laura's Playground (Crossdresser link)
Laura's Playground is the Internet's most well-respected resource on almost anything transgender. The link (relevant to this blog post) links you to the Crossdressing resources of Laura's Playground. It is recommended you click on the link if you want to read specifically about crossdressers. If you want to read about transgender issues for youth (including crossdressing), use this link: Laura's Playground (Teens link). If you want to visit the main site, which links to information on all varieties of transgenders, use this link: Laura's Playground (main site).
• Susan's Place Transgender Resources for Transsexual/Transgender Communities (Crossdressing link)
Including both resources and an online message board, Susan's Place has many resources for transgender people. It even includes resources for crossdressers, which the above link takes you.
You may visit the main site by using this link: Susan's Place Transgender Resources for Transsexual/Transgender Communities.
• www.crossdressers.com/
A online forum devoted to crossdressing.
• Crossdresser Heaven
A website offering tips and resources for M2F crossdressers.
• Crossdressing Freedom
A website with many resources including stories, pictures, videos, advice, and more. It is run by a crossdresser who calls herself Zoe Freedom.
• UltraCrossdresser
Called "the ultimate crossdresser/transvestite guide," this site features many resources for crossdressers both new and experienced. Gain some knowledge and some insight if you are crossdressing or want to know more about crossdressing.
• A Crossdresser's Secret Garden
A resource site for crossdressers/transvestites and those who know them.
• The Gender Society
A social network and resource site devoted to transgenders (including crossdressers/transvestites).
Crossdressing Resources: Stores.
These are online stores with items for sale for those seriously into crossdressing. Be warned that some of these sites may not be comfortable for all audiences. Each site is a look at what certain online stores offer for crossdressers. However, no adult sites are featured.• Cross-dress.com
This is one of the different sites to visit where you can get some accessories and items if you're a crossdresser.
• Crossdressing: Lingerie for Men, Men's Lace, Men's Satin & Panties
This is an online store with many items for M2F crossdressers.
• Crossdressing, Transgender, and Crossdresser Clothing and Accessories
An online store with various items for crossdressers.
I may include more links to better service my audience based on traffic or interest to this post. If you would like to suggest some sites to me that may be of interest to my readers, please contact me via E-mail. I review sites and will feature only material that I think my readers can benefit from and are not suspicious sites of any kind. Use the table at the conclusion of this post to contact me.
That concludes my blog post on crossdressing. I hope you were able to have a different understanding of crossdressers/transvestites after reading this post and checking out some of the resources I've posted. I may consider doing a related topic to this one in the future. So make sure you're subscribed and/or Following John's Blog Space. Not followed, but you love my blog? Then PLEASE subscribe to my blog!
More than ever... thank you for reading!
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Wednesday, May 16, 2012
Never Give Up on Your Dreams!
On May 17, 2008; I reached a significant accomplishment in my life- getting my Associates in the Arts. It was sunshine for me in a cloudy point of my life where I was unsure if I would ever accomplish anything special since graduating from High School. Thinking about this special day has allowed me to come up with this motivational post in remembering my significant accomplishment.
So I returned to Houston after my Lamar dreams failed. I then wanted to get into the University of Houston. It was about the Fall 2003 semester for me as I got back into the collegiate circuit. My University of Houston dreams never materialized for me. I then changed my goals from Computer Animation to Graphic Design, then from Graphic Design to Broadcasting and Journalism. I've been going to Houston Community College - Southeast trying to get my Associates in the Arts. Previously, I had no real plan- basically taking classes just to take them and earn college credit. I also wanted to learn in certain classes to enrich my mind. It wasn't until about maybe 2005 or 2006 when I finally set up a degree plan with counselors. In 2007, two personal landmarks were set- I passed all of my classes (I failed at least one class every semester since Fall 2003 up until the Fall 2007 semester). And more importantly- I earned enough credit to get my Associates in the Arts. However, I would do one more semester just for a little extra credit because I failed to register for graduation in the Fall 2007 semester.
Fast forward to Spring 2008. I would celebrate my 25th birthday in January 2008. Most people my age then have probably gotten their Bachelors or Masters as they reached age 25. I was still wondering if I'd ever reach getting my Associates. On May 17, 2008 at Reliant Stadium; it was time for me to walk the stage and celebrate a lifelong accomplishment- getting my Associates in the Arts. I might see some of my old college friends for the last time in person. I knew one thing- a journey of ups and downs ultimately resulted in epic triumph. Could I have gotten my degree sooner and with better academic progress? Absolutely. But life is never easy. I am admittedly not a good student. If I was a better student, I would have been in better academic status to begin with. I wouldn't need to rely on community college. I may have lasted longer on the four-year university side. Because I didn't have the best life or the face the most favorable of circumstances, I had to make due with what I had and make the most out of life.
After getting my Associates Degree, I wasn't really sure what I wanted to do. Part of me actually wanted to go for a Bachelors Degree in Broadcasting and Journalism. One thing my brother taught me was about getting a degree in something I know I would actually utilize.
As a dark secret- I began to push more towards YouTube and blogging as I began to think about Broadcasting and Journalism would entail and if I was ready to take on the challenges involved with Broadcasting and Journalism. So much of what I've read and heard about different aspects of Broadcasting and Journalism made me feel less like it is what I always wanted to do. I actually wanted to be a sports anchor or cover sports. Because of certain aspects of mass media that I wasn't too happy with after contemplation, I began to shift my focus a bit more in different directions. Directions that would eventually lead me to think more about YouTube and blogging. Remember- I first wanted to do 3D animation! I changed my career focus twice while in college. Even while I was in college, I once admitted that blogging for money was an aspiration of mine. I would blog a lot on Myspace before eventually contributing to the blog on Blogger/Blogspot called... "John's Blog Space." I even developed interests in making YouTube videos as I started visiting YouTube a bit more often. Eventually- "JohnMarineTube" was born. And the rest... as they say... is history.
Today, I am still mostly happy where I am now. I make videos online and post blog entries like this one. Despite my struggles through college, I never gave up on hope. I wanted to impress both myself and my family/friends. I always believed in myself even when having my worst days. Times in college could have been better, but you make the most of what is given to you. At least I am doing something that I love and that keeps me occupied. Plus, I'm contributing to society with my videos and my blogging. I am contributing while also meeting certain loyal people (excluding spammers and scammers). I am happy doing videos today. I am happy posting blog posts. Could I be doing something more worthwhile and more rewarding? Sure. However, these two arenas I take part in are just as important and special to me as any other occupation. Until something much better or more promising comes my way and if I'm qualified and able to take part in those opportunities, I'm happy where I am at now.
• Never give up on your dreams.
If you know there is a goal in sight, why take yourself out of the race? Do whatever it takes to cross the finish line and do something to feel important and accomplished. I hated many of my college experiences, but what more could I do than focus on the task at hand?
• Keep Trying!
Don't feel down just because you failed previously. Move on and stay in the fight.
And this one is perhaps the most important:
• No matter how long it takes, make the most of each day to eventually accomplish whatever long-term goal(s) you have in mind.
You can't build a house from start to finish in one day. Long-term goals are NEVER accomplished in a short amount of time (unless you are EXTREMELY fortunate). Don't start getting too desperate trying to get something big accomplished in short time. Be patient and keep working towards whatever it is that you want accomplished. Remember- I was 25 when I got my Associates in the Arts. Most people were already probably done with college and were living their lives. I'm 29 years old as of this post- most other people are completely done with college and are living life, perhaps they are proud parents to a child or children at my current age of 29. Regardless, every long-term goal has one constant- a finish line. A long term goal has a finish line or a finishing point where hard work has a just reward once everything is complete. So the most important thing to remember...
NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS!
Thank you for reading!
--- Never Give Up on Your Dreams! ---
I graduated from High School back in 2001 as Most Improved Student. In 2002, I considered my next goal- attending a four-year university to focus my school energy on Computer Animation. I was influenced by things like Disney/Pixar and an old 3D-animated cartoon series from the mid-1990s called Reboot. That dream of a four-year university came true. I became a student of Lamar University (Beaumont, TX, USA). As I was trying to push towards that dream career of being a computer animator, my dream lasted only 11 weeks. Thereafter, I would suffer personal heartbreak and would become immensely dissatisfied with my life.So I returned to Houston after my Lamar dreams failed. I then wanted to get into the University of Houston. It was about the Fall 2003 semester for me as I got back into the collegiate circuit. My University of Houston dreams never materialized for me. I then changed my goals from Computer Animation to Graphic Design, then from Graphic Design to Broadcasting and Journalism. I've been going to Houston Community College - Southeast trying to get my Associates in the Arts. Previously, I had no real plan- basically taking classes just to take them and earn college credit. I also wanted to learn in certain classes to enrich my mind. It wasn't until about maybe 2005 or 2006 when I finally set up a degree plan with counselors. In 2007, two personal landmarks were set- I passed all of my classes (I failed at least one class every semester since Fall 2003 up until the Fall 2007 semester). And more importantly- I earned enough credit to get my Associates in the Arts. However, I would do one more semester just for a little extra credit because I failed to register for graduation in the Fall 2007 semester.
Fast forward to Spring 2008. I would celebrate my 25th birthday in January 2008. Most people my age then have probably gotten their Bachelors or Masters as they reached age 25. I was still wondering if I'd ever reach getting my Associates. On May 17, 2008 at Reliant Stadium; it was time for me to walk the stage and celebrate a lifelong accomplishment- getting my Associates in the Arts. I might see some of my old college friends for the last time in person. I knew one thing- a journey of ups and downs ultimately resulted in epic triumph. Could I have gotten my degree sooner and with better academic progress? Absolutely. But life is never easy. I am admittedly not a good student. If I was a better student, I would have been in better academic status to begin with. I wouldn't need to rely on community college. I may have lasted longer on the four-year university side. Because I didn't have the best life or the face the most favorable of circumstances, I had to make due with what I had and make the most out of life.
After getting my Associates Degree, I wasn't really sure what I wanted to do. Part of me actually wanted to go for a Bachelors Degree in Broadcasting and Journalism. One thing my brother taught me was about getting a degree in something I know I would actually utilize.
As a dark secret- I began to push more towards YouTube and blogging as I began to think about Broadcasting and Journalism would entail and if I was ready to take on the challenges involved with Broadcasting and Journalism. So much of what I've read and heard about different aspects of Broadcasting and Journalism made me feel less like it is what I always wanted to do. I actually wanted to be a sports anchor or cover sports. Because of certain aspects of mass media that I wasn't too happy with after contemplation, I began to shift my focus a bit more in different directions. Directions that would eventually lead me to think more about YouTube and blogging. Remember- I first wanted to do 3D animation! I changed my career focus twice while in college. Even while I was in college, I once admitted that blogging for money was an aspiration of mine. I would blog a lot on Myspace before eventually contributing to the blog on Blogger/Blogspot called... "John's Blog Space." I even developed interests in making YouTube videos as I started visiting YouTube a bit more often. Eventually- "JohnMarineTube" was born. And the rest... as they say... is history.
Today, I am still mostly happy where I am now. I make videos online and post blog entries like this one. Despite my struggles through college, I never gave up on hope. I wanted to impress both myself and my family/friends. I always believed in myself even when having my worst days. Times in college could have been better, but you make the most of what is given to you. At least I am doing something that I love and that keeps me occupied. Plus, I'm contributing to society with my videos and my blogging. I am contributing while also meeting certain loyal people (excluding spammers and scammers). I am happy doing videos today. I am happy posting blog posts. Could I be doing something more worthwhile and more rewarding? Sure. However, these two arenas I take part in are just as important and special to me as any other occupation. Until something much better or more promising comes my way and if I'm qualified and able to take part in those opportunities, I'm happy where I am at now.
--- Lessons Learned ---
So what is the motivational message I am trying to send? There are a few to mention:• Never give up on your dreams.
If you know there is a goal in sight, why take yourself out of the race? Do whatever it takes to cross the finish line and do something to feel important and accomplished. I hated many of my college experiences, but what more could I do than focus on the task at hand?
• Keep Trying!
Don't feel down just because you failed previously. Move on and stay in the fight.
And this one is perhaps the most important:
• No matter how long it takes, make the most of each day to eventually accomplish whatever long-term goal(s) you have in mind.
You can't build a house from start to finish in one day. Long-term goals are NEVER accomplished in a short amount of time (unless you are EXTREMELY fortunate). Don't start getting too desperate trying to get something big accomplished in short time. Be patient and keep working towards whatever it is that you want accomplished. Remember- I was 25 when I got my Associates in the Arts. Most people were already probably done with college and were living their lives. I'm 29 years old as of this post- most other people are completely done with college and are living life, perhaps they are proud parents to a child or children at my current age of 29. Regardless, every long-term goal has one constant- a finish line. A long term goal has a finish line or a finishing point where hard work has a just reward once everything is complete. So the most important thing to remember...
NEVER GIVE UP ON YOUR DREAMS!
Thank you for reading!
| "Like" me on Facebook, Follow JBS, and/or Contact Me via E-Mail! | ||
|---|---|---|
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Deli Sandwiches
Deli sandwiches are healthy and tasty ways to fill up. They can range from simple sandwiches to your half-foot and foot-long sandwiches. My inspiration for this post is on sub sandwiches from Subway or Quiznos. However, you know I have to cover multiple bases. There are some deli sandwiches that aren't like the long sandwiches that inspired this post. Some deli sandwiches can just be some basic loaf of bread sandwiches or even sandwich wraps. Whatever the case, this blog post is a look at deli sandwiches of many kinds from various delicatessens.
^ from: blogchef.net - Feel free to dig into a sub sandwich! Restaurants may allow you full control over what you want on your sub sandwich.
Submarine sandwiches, or better known as sub sandwiches, are among the most popular deli sandwiches. They are also called hoagies or grinders (according to Wikipedia). When going to a deli or deli restaurant (such as Subway), you usually have control over what kind of sandwich you want made for you. A sandwich usually begins with whatever kind of bread you want. Certain breads can be pretty good for your health. I found wheat bread to be good for you. At some deli restaurants, you have some options like white bread, wheat bread, jalepeño bread, Italian herb bread, and other options depending on what the deli offers. Many delis give you control over what kind of ingredients you want on it. Personally, I usually don't have deli sandwiches with tomatoes or onions- just my own preference. For those who are not lactose intolerant, there are many different cheese choices including American cheese, Swiss cheese, cheddar cheese, and other cheeses like that. Dressing is also offered. I tend to prefer my sandwiches to have mayonnaise and mustard- especially honey mustard. But sometimes, I even like deli mustard. Some mustard can be a bit strong, so I usually avoid these.
For myself, personally, I like a combination of Subway and Quiznos. I usually would get a Cold Cut Combo from Subway. Some of the sandwiches I usually have from Subway these days is usually something with chicken. So I would nowadays have a Chicken and Bacon Ranch Melt. The combination of chicken and bacon is a delicious combination. To keep the sandwich fresh, I even prefer a toasted Subway sandwich. From Quiznos, I become enamored with the Mesquite Chicken. It is a delicious and tasty sandwich to have with chicken and bacon along with some tasty mayo and mustard. I think Quiznos offered (or do they?) a Honey Mustard Chicken sandwich that was also good. I usually prefer not to have tomatoes or onions on my sub sandwiches. I certainly want mayo and mustard. I usually like honey mustard. How do you like your sub sandwich?
The sub sandwich has multiple origins but is otherwise American to the core. If you want to learn more about sub sandwiches, visit this Wikipedia page: "Submarine Sandwich" - Wikipedia.
^ from: www.jhdeli.com - Short deli sandwiches can be just as tasty and as enjoyable as any sub sandwich.
What if you want a deli sandwich that isn't long? No problem! Some restaurants (and even some grocery stores) offer short deli sandwiches that are still much more delicious than your average homemade sandwich. Many of these sandwiches are made with basic loaves of bread and dressed up with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, any variety of meats, any variety of cheeses, various dressings, and more. Some simple deli sandwiches even are made on toasted bread, Ciabatta bread, and other breads.
Two different deli-style sandwiches I've had before are panini sandwiches and muffulettas. Back in my community college days, the deli across the street of Houston Community College - Southeast (represent! :D) once offered a Grilled Chicken Romano Panini. It was delicious! My parents have even made some panini sandwiches before for us and our family.
Some grocery stores offer deli sandwiches if you don't fancy going to any proper delicatessens. They are all ready-made and available for you to enjoy at home. Some grocery stores even offer party packs complete with many small sandwiches and other party favors. For my own American audience, you can visit places like a Kroger, the grocery sections of Wal-Mart and Target stores, and places like that to enjoy deli sandwiches from grocery stores and grocery sections of major retailers.
• Quiznos Sandwich Restaurants
• Jason's Deli « mostly Texas-based chain of deli restaurants, but other locations around America
• Schlotzsky's « Texas-based deli chain.
• Panera Bread
• McAlister's Deli
• Deli Sandwiches - Delicious Sandwich Recipes from AlansKitchen.com
• Top 20 Deli Sandwiches - Delicious Sandwich Recipes from Alanskitchen.com
• Cold Sandwich Recipes - about.com
• Jared's Journey
If you want to recommend me any more non-suspicious, non-spam links to service my readers, please contact me via E-Mail or post on my Facebook fan page. You may contact me using the information towards the end of this post.
I hope you enjoyed this blog post as much as I enjoyed researching and putting it all together. I really hope you have enjoyed my work. How do you like deli sandwiches? Do you have any favorites? Don't spam me or send me any suspicious comments- just comment properly. Thank you for reading!
--- Deli Sandwiches ---
You don't have to be Jared Fogle to know how healthy and filling deli sandwiches can be. Jared Fogle has become an icon for going on Subway sandwiches and exercise to go from big to slim. The appeal of deli sandwiches is that they are healthy and filling sandwiches to eat. Going beyond what a plain sandwich is like, most deli sandwiches are made on a number of different breads and with a variety of different ingredients. Different styles of bread and certain items added to deli sandwiches can help make for a tasty experience once a proper deli sandwich is complete.Sub Sandwiches.
^ from: blogchef.net - Feel free to dig into a sub sandwich! Restaurants may allow you full control over what you want on your sub sandwich.
Submarine sandwiches, or better known as sub sandwiches, are among the most popular deli sandwiches. They are also called hoagies or grinders (according to Wikipedia). When going to a deli or deli restaurant (such as Subway), you usually have control over what kind of sandwich you want made for you. A sandwich usually begins with whatever kind of bread you want. Certain breads can be pretty good for your health. I found wheat bread to be good for you. At some deli restaurants, you have some options like white bread, wheat bread, jalepeño bread, Italian herb bread, and other options depending on what the deli offers. Many delis give you control over what kind of ingredients you want on it. Personally, I usually don't have deli sandwiches with tomatoes or onions- just my own preference. For those who are not lactose intolerant, there are many different cheese choices including American cheese, Swiss cheese, cheddar cheese, and other cheeses like that. Dressing is also offered. I tend to prefer my sandwiches to have mayonnaise and mustard- especially honey mustard. But sometimes, I even like deli mustard. Some mustard can be a bit strong, so I usually avoid these.
For myself, personally, I like a combination of Subway and Quiznos. I usually would get a Cold Cut Combo from Subway. Some of the sandwiches I usually have from Subway these days is usually something with chicken. So I would nowadays have a Chicken and Bacon Ranch Melt. The combination of chicken and bacon is a delicious combination. To keep the sandwich fresh, I even prefer a toasted Subway sandwich. From Quiznos, I become enamored with the Mesquite Chicken. It is a delicious and tasty sandwich to have with chicken and bacon along with some tasty mayo and mustard. I think Quiznos offered (or do they?) a Honey Mustard Chicken sandwich that was also good. I usually prefer not to have tomatoes or onions on my sub sandwiches. I certainly want mayo and mustard. I usually like honey mustard. How do you like your sub sandwich?
The sub sandwich has multiple origins but is otherwise American to the core. If you want to learn more about sub sandwiches, visit this Wikipedia page: "Submarine Sandwich" - Wikipedia.
Other Deli Sandwiches.
^ from: www.jhdeli.com - Short deli sandwiches can be just as tasty and as enjoyable as any sub sandwich.
What if you want a deli sandwich that isn't long? No problem! Some restaurants (and even some grocery stores) offer short deli sandwiches that are still much more delicious than your average homemade sandwich. Many of these sandwiches are made with basic loaves of bread and dressed up with lettuce, tomatoes, onions, any variety of meats, any variety of cheeses, various dressings, and more. Some simple deli sandwiches even are made on toasted bread, Ciabatta bread, and other breads.
Two different deli-style sandwiches I've had before are panini sandwiches and muffulettas. Back in my community college days, the deli across the street of Houston Community College - Southeast (represent! :D) once offered a Grilled Chicken Romano Panini. It was delicious! My parents have even made some panini sandwiches before for us and our family.
Some grocery stores offer deli sandwiches if you don't fancy going to any proper delicatessens. They are all ready-made and available for you to enjoy at home. Some grocery stores even offer party packs complete with many small sandwiches and other party favors. For my own American audience, you can visit places like a Kroger, the grocery sections of Wal-Mart and Target stores, and places like that to enjoy deli sandwiches from grocery stores and grocery sections of major retailers.
Other Items to Go Along With Deli Sandwiches.
While you're enjoying a deli sandwich, what else is there to enjoy with a deli sandwich? The most common other food item is usually potato chips. Some people even have themselves a cookie or maybe some iced tea to go with a deli sandwich. I usually have chips and sometimes a pickle.--- Deli Sandwiches Online ---
So do you want your own deli sandwiches? Maybe you want to make your own deli sandwiches? Allow me to help by providing these links. Most of these links are mostly meant for my American audience, but some may have international sites. So please have a look around!Delis and Deli Sandwiches.
• SUBWAY Restaurants• Quiznos Sandwich Restaurants
• Jason's Deli « mostly Texas-based chain of deli restaurants, but other locations around America
• Schlotzsky's « Texas-based deli chain.
• Panera Bread
• McAlister's Deli
Deli Sandwich Recipes.
• How to Make a GREAT Deli Sandwich - Squidoo• Deli Sandwiches - Delicious Sandwich Recipes from AlansKitchen.com
• Top 20 Deli Sandwiches - Delicious Sandwich Recipes from Alanskitchen.com
• Cold Sandwich Recipes - about.com
Jared Fogle's SUBWAY Diet (Honorable Mention!).
Here is something you can read since I mentioned Jared Fogle earlier. Learn more about his radical diet routine... on SUBWAY sandwiches!• Jared's Journey
If you want to recommend me any more non-suspicious, non-spam links to service my readers, please contact me via E-Mail or post on my Facebook fan page. You may contact me using the information towards the end of this post.
I hope you enjoyed this blog post as much as I enjoyed researching and putting it all together. I really hope you have enjoyed my work. How do you like deli sandwiches? Do you have any favorites? Don't spam me or send me any suspicious comments- just comment properly. Thank you for reading!
| "Like" me on Facebook, Follow JBS, and/or Contact Me via E-Mail! | ||
|---|---|---|
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Tuesday, May 15, 2012
Salad
For many people, nothing beats a traditional salad. Having lots of lettuce, tomatoes, and things like that help make a usual salad. Some people usually add all sort of condiments and other items. For me, I would take a usual salad and add things like chicken breast pieces and add some shredded cheese and some buttermilk ranch dressing. Other people would add things like raisins, carrot slices, bacon bits, and other items to their own salads.
No matter how you dress up a salad, at least you know you're eating something healthy and light. Only thing I'd be careful of is making sure you're eating healthy salad. Just be sure the greens and fresh vegetables are clean and doesn't have any sort of contaminants in them. You can either buy salad from a grocery store and improvise with your own items, or you could always buy salad from a restaurant. You're still getting yourself something healthy and light.
Here's a picture to set the mood:
^ from: life123.com - This blog post concerns traditional salad.
• ranch dressing (buttermilk is my favorite)
• shredded cheese
• grilled chicken breast strips or chunks
So you can say I prefer a tasty chicken salad. Not that I know any health benefits of such salad, but it's a healthy fill-up for me. How do you like your salad?
• Salad Recipes on Allrecipes.com
• Simply Recipes - Salad
• Salads - Taste of Home Recipes
More links may be provided in any possible edits. I want to properly service all of my readers and visitors properly.
Do you like salad? How do your like your salad? Be sure to share your ideas and your thoughts in this post or in any of my others. Thank you for reading!
No matter how you dress up a salad, at least you know you're eating something healthy and light. Only thing I'd be careful of is making sure you're eating healthy salad. Just be sure the greens and fresh vegetables are clean and doesn't have any sort of contaminants in them. You can either buy salad from a grocery store and improvise with your own items, or you could always buy salad from a restaurant. You're still getting yourself something healthy and light.
Here's a picture to set the mood:
^ from: life123.com - This blog post concerns traditional salad.
How I Like Salad.
These are usually things that I prefer when having a salad:• ranch dressing (buttermilk is my favorite)
• shredded cheese
• grilled chicken breast strips or chunks
So you can say I prefer a tasty chicken salad. Not that I know any health benefits of such salad, but it's a healthy fill-up for me. How do you like your salad?
Salad Resources.
Here are some online resources for you to make your own salad or for salad recipes:• Salad Recipes on Allrecipes.com
• Simply Recipes - Salad
• Salads - Taste of Home Recipes
More links may be provided in any possible edits. I want to properly service all of my readers and visitors properly.
Do you like salad? How do your like your salad? Be sure to share your ideas and your thoughts in this post or in any of my others. Thank you for reading!
| "Like" me on Facebook, Follow JBS, and/or Contact Me via E-Mail! | ||
|---|---|---|
| Subscribe to John's Blog Space (JBS) | Subscribe to John's Shop Space (JSS) | Subscribe to John's Gran Turismo Space (JGTS) |
Monday, May 14, 2012
Bicycles
Bicycles are enjoyed by many walks of life ranging from children to adults for reasons ranging from recreation to sport. This is two-wheeled fun for many reasons and applications. Push those pedals and be on your way to a fun ride. Or if you're the more adventurous or rebellious kind, you're into mountain biking or even BMX stunts. Whatever the case, bicycles may well be worth your time. This blog post is all about bicycles.
I haven't been on a bicycle since childhood. Do not think that this is any information based on personal experience or anything like that. I am simply providing all of this for entertainment and educational purposes.
WARNING: This post includes a number of YouTube videos. Your viewing performance may be slow depending on your connection. You may view the individual videos in links if you are unable to view any of the videos.
^ from: bicycletouringpro.com - Two-wheeled fun awaits you when you ride a bicycle.
A lot of us may have started out riding tricycles. I certainly remember riding tricycles before moving up to a bicycle. My memories even include riding a bicycle with training wheels. Bicycles have been around since the 19th Century. As with most inventions, the bicycle has been enhanced and innovated over time to become and remain a fun form of both transportation and recreation. Some cities and nations have bicycles as the most effective mode of transportation.
I remember when I was younger and had a bicycle. I previously had a scooter that I enjoyed riding. My first bicycle had training wheels since I was not comfortable going on two wheels yet. Over time, I would learn to properly ride a bicycle and be able to ride it properly. I sometimes challenged a little girl to a race when at my grandmother's house. I would be on my scooter while she was on her bicycle. We had to go to this one intersection in our neighborhood back to my grandmother's house. Fun times. One time, I even once had a dirt bicycle. I think it was too big for it and didn't get to ride it too much, though.
^ from: amazon.com - A men's road bicycle from Schwinn.
These bikes were meant to take on concrete and asphalt. Bikes like these were meant to be ridden around the neighborhood or in the park. They can even be performance-ridden as you could compete in bicycle racing events with road bikes. A number of manufacturers make road bicycles... even including Mercedes-Benz and Peugeot!
^ from: amazon.com - A Men's Mongoose mountain bike.
Mountain bikes are rugged and durable bicycles. They are best made for taking on natural terrain, yet many others do have them around town or on tarmac. Mountain bikes have wide and rugged tires. These are performance bicycles meant to take on undulating terrain.
^ from: amazon.com - A women's hybrid bicycle from Schwinn.
The hybrid bicycle is best suited as a happy medium between road bikes and mountain bikes. You get the ruggedness of a mountain bike coupled with the city-happy nature of a road bike.
^ from: amazon.com - Women's Pacific cruiser bike.
Just like cruiser motorcycles are meant more towards style than outright performance (as opposed to sporty motorcycles), cruiser bikes are meant more towards style than being some kind of performance-oriented bicycle. Only difference is that nobody will look at you as a poser/poseur on a cruiser bike compared to a cruiser motorcycle. :)
^ from: amazon.com - A Mongoose BMX bicycle.
BMX stands for "bicycle motocross" ("X" instead of cross). Think of these like non-motorized dirt motorcycles. They are best known for pulling off stunts like most motocross and supercross riders do. BMX bicycles are meant for those action sports types who ride while doing tricks. Everything from bunny hops to rail riding is what the BMX rider is all about. They are the rebellious riders who are all about pulling cool tricks and being real cool while riding.
These are the basic kinds of bicycles. Have you a favorite kind of bicycle?
Want to make a scene and have fun? Try a tandem bicycle! Tandem bicycles are meant to have more than one person ride along with others. When coming up with this blog post, one person's YouTube channel shows that there is an actual science to tandem riding. While it may seem cute to have more than one person riding one bike, check this video out for more insight on tandem riding:
^ "Tandem Bike Riding"
Some people make custom bicycles; some even turned into tricycles. Look no further than with Lowrider bicycles. These bikes may have custom-made frames and accessories while also being fully tricked out. Talk about riding in style! Check out the lowrider bikes in this video:
^ "Lowrider Bike Commercial"
Bicycles can also be great sporting equipment for those doing outdoors sports. There are a number of people who'll ride their bicycles in outdoor settings. Mountain bikers ride their bikes on some undulating and hilly trails. Here is an example of mountain bike riders going all-out:
^ "GoPro HD HERO camera: Mountain Bike Clip"
Those into action sports have seen bicycles being used at skate parks and at half pipes. Dave Mirra is one of the finest in performing amazing stunts and tricks on a bicycle. He is a multiple-time champion of BMX competition. A lot of these stunt bikes have bars on the wheels so they can pull off tricks riding on rails. This video below is an example of BMX stunts. This is Morgan Wade and his gold medal run in the Action Sports World Championships round in 2007 in Dallas, TX, USA:
^ "BMX: Morgan Wade's Gold Medal Run in Dallas, 2007"
And of course... let's not forget those who take part in bicycle tours and rallies. Here in the Houston area, we have a famous event called the MS 150, a 150-mile bicycle rally from Houston to Austin benefiting the fight against Multiple Sclerosis (or MS for short). There are many cycling events worldwide. The most of famous of which, is of course... the Tour de France. This is a look at how brutal bike rallies and tours can be:
^ "Tour de France 2011 Highlights"
You now know about cycling both for recreation and for sport.
• Training Wheels - if you're starting out trying to ride a bicycle, training wheels are a great way to start. I remember I had training wheels on my bicycle once I went from a tricycle to a bicycle.
• Custom Saddles - bicycles may have custom seats designed for various applications, ranging from racing to just average bike riding. Some seats are even recommended by doctors and physicians.
• Baskets and Carts - some bikes can be equipped with carts for carrying around things safely.
• Water Bottle Cage - if you have a water bottle, equip one to your bicycle to be able to take water with you on the go as you ride.
These are among many other different items and accessories for bicycles.
^ from: redkiteprayer.com (best I could find) - This men's cycling outfit is an example of what cyclists wear as part of their outfit.
I am not any kind of cycling expert, but my best guess is that wearing such bicycle apparel helps you better perform as you're cycling. Those who compete in bicycle races will probably find wearing dedicated cycling apparel to better help you aerodynamically as you ride. Those bicycle racers often tuck down (just like motorcycle racers do) as they ride to get as little wind resistance as possible while at speed. Some cyclists wear bicycle gloves for protection and better grip.
For female bicyclists, there are special active skorts designed for those who want to wear a skirt while still being covered. These cycling skorts have attached shorts or bloomers to keep a cycling girl covered while also looking cute. There are even cycling dresses from one site I saw in preparing this blog post.
It helps to wear light-colored clothing, especially if riding at night. Speaking of night bicycle riding, have reflectors at the front and the back so you can be better spotted in darkness. Don't also forget to let people behind and in front of you know when you're turning. Links to much more detailed bicycle safety measures will be showcased later in this blog post.
Equally important in all of this is making sure your bike is secure and protected. Be sure the bike is properly secure to a bike rack with a lock and a cable.
I hope you all are able to dress nicely and ride carefully while riding your bicycle.
• Schwinn - Well-known for producing great bicycles. In addition to riding bicycles, they also offer stationary exercising bikes.
• Mongoose - a very popular bicycle maker with a vast variety of bicycles to choose from for various applications.
• Huffy - Maker of many bicycles as well as scooters and other sporting equipment.
• Kent - With over 100 years of cycling, they offer a variety of bicycles for many age groups and in various styles.
• Trek Bicycle - Bicycle maker with loads of experience, having been around since 1976.
• Brodie - They offer many bikes mostly for adults. They go by the slogan of, "Real bikes for real people."
• Surly Bikes - Surly sells complete bicycles as well as bicycle frames.
• MIRRACO Bikes - a bicycle company founded by multiple-time BMX World Champion, Dave Mirra. Frames and parts are offered in addition to the many different bicycles offered.
• Terry Bicycles - a feminine-exclusive brand that offers bicycles for women as well as bicycle apparel and parts.
• Renovo Bicycles - a bicycle manufacturer featuring wooden frame bicycles.
• Chubby's Cruisers - A maker of cruiser bicycles offering various styles for adults and children. Accessories for ordered bicycles can be added to each bike upon ordering.
• Specialized Bicycle Components - A maker of sophisticated bicycles. Their bikes are made for many applications, for both adults and children. It even includes a bicycle made in conjunction with the McLaren Formula 1 racing team.
• Waldmeister Bikes - a German maker of wooden-frame bicycles.
• Prestigio Bikes - a bicycle manufacturer based in the Republic of San Marino. Site is in Italian, but is also available in Spanish and English.
• Shimano (North American link) - Japanese company that sells bicycles, and they also make various parts and apparel for bicycles. The Osaka-based company was established in 1921 and incorporated in 1940. They also offer products for rowing and fishing.
• Sexy Bicycles - Yes, this Australian bicycle maker is actually called Sexy Bicycles. They make stylish bicycles designed with an exciting array of colors.
• Peugeot - Having made bicycles in the past, world-renowned automaker Peugeot offers a line of bicycles thanks to a new partnership with a well-respected bicycle maker. Peugeot bicycles are only offered in select European nations (including its native France) as well as Japan.
• Ferrari Bikes - Anyone even remotely educated about cars knows what kind of exotic ecstasy Ferrari provides. While they may not go as fast as their gasoline/petrol counterparts, Ferrari does provide some bicycles for your enjoyment. These bikes don't come cheap, though. Their cheapest-priced bike sells for about
• BMW - BMW makes both automobiles and motorcycles. They also make bicycles. Are these bicycles, then... the ultimate bicycle riding machines? I don't think they are sold outside of Germany or Europe because prices are only offered in Euros.
• Volkswagen (of Ireland) - Volkswagen and its long heritage of making automobiles also makes a number of bicycles. The bikes offered from this link are featured only for Volkswagen of Ireland.
• Mini Cooper Bicycle - The Mini Cooper is one of the finest automobiles of all time. Its heritage is prevalent on these bicycles. There are bikes offered for both adults and kids bearing the Mini Cooper namesake.
• Maserati - Better known as the luxury arm of Ferrari, Maserati made a bicycle called the Montante for Maserati 8CTF. It is an elegant bicycle from the Italian company.
• Land Rover - Land Rover is best known as a maker of rugged vehicles for off-roading. They also make bicycles for adults and children for multiple applications.
• Porsche - Pure pedal-pushing Porsche power. Porsche provides some bicycles that are as elegant and as capable as their cars. It isn't likely you'll draw stares on a Porsche bicycle as you would in a Porsche automobile. Of course, you could always fly the Porsche flag by attaching a Porsche bicycle to your Porsche Cayenne. :)
• McLaren (links to more info on the bicycle) - In a joint effort between the McLaren Formula 1 team and Specialized, the world's fastest bicycle was born- the S-Works + McLaren Venge. Visit the Specialized link to see the Venge Aero Road Bike co-developed by Specialized and McLaren. Or as an added bonus, let me share with you a video on this bicycle. Enjoy!
^ "Specialized S-works+McLaren Venge"
I may include more links in the future if I find more bicycle makers to feature.
• Bikes Belong
• International Mountain Biking Association
• Cyclingnews.com
• PedalHouston (Houston/Galveston area)
• Bicycle Safety - How Not to Get Hit By Cars
• Kids and Bicycle Safety « provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Kids Bike Quiz « test your knowledge of bike riding for kids.
• Performance Bike
• Cambria Bike
• Wheel World Bike Shop
• Just Bicycles
• PV Bicycle Center - Palos Verdes, CA, USA
More links may be included in any future edits.
I have never really been too fond of cycling to say I am any sort of bicycle person. I do hope you cycling fans have enjoyed my blog post. Remember to Subscribe and Follow if you love my work. If you're indulged in social media, GET SOCIAL WITH ME! Thank you for reading!
I haven't been on a bicycle since childhood. Do not think that this is any information based on personal experience or anything like that. I am simply providing all of this for entertainment and educational purposes.
WARNING: This post includes a number of YouTube videos. Your viewing performance may be slow depending on your connection. You may view the individual videos in links if you are unable to view any of the videos.
--- Bicycles at a Glance ---
^ from: bicycletouringpro.com - Two-wheeled fun awaits you when you ride a bicycle.
A lot of us may have started out riding tricycles. I certainly remember riding tricycles before moving up to a bicycle. My memories even include riding a bicycle with training wheels. Bicycles have been around since the 19th Century. As with most inventions, the bicycle has been enhanced and innovated over time to become and remain a fun form of both transportation and recreation. Some cities and nations have bicycles as the most effective mode of transportation.
I remember when I was younger and had a bicycle. I previously had a scooter that I enjoyed riding. My first bicycle had training wheels since I was not comfortable going on two wheels yet. Over time, I would learn to properly ride a bicycle and be able to ride it properly. I sometimes challenged a little girl to a race when at my grandmother's house. I would be on my scooter while she was on her bicycle. We had to go to this one intersection in our neighborhood back to my grandmother's house. Fun times. One time, I even once had a dirt bicycle. I think it was too big for it and didn't get to ride it too much, though.
--- Kinds of Bicycles ---
A bicycle from a retailer can cost anywhere between $100 US Dollars (or less) to even four-figure US Dollar amounts! Some of the more expensive bicycles (namely racing bicycles) have carbon fiber construction and can be quite expensive. Bicycles are usually sold based on the wheel width. Some bikes even have gears to them. So not every bike is created equal. Here are a few different kinds of bicycles (thanks: about.com):Road Bicycles.
^ from: amazon.com - A men's road bicycle from Schwinn.
These bikes were meant to take on concrete and asphalt. Bikes like these were meant to be ridden around the neighborhood or in the park. They can even be performance-ridden as you could compete in bicycle racing events with road bikes. A number of manufacturers make road bicycles... even including Mercedes-Benz and Peugeot!
Mountain Bikes.
^ from: amazon.com - A Men's Mongoose mountain bike.
Mountain bikes are rugged and durable bicycles. They are best made for taking on natural terrain, yet many others do have them around town or on tarmac. Mountain bikes have wide and rugged tires. These are performance bicycles meant to take on undulating terrain.
Hybrid Bikes.
^ from: amazon.com - A women's hybrid bicycle from Schwinn.
The hybrid bicycle is best suited as a happy medium between road bikes and mountain bikes. You get the ruggedness of a mountain bike coupled with the city-happy nature of a road bike.
Cruiser Bicycle.
^ from: amazon.com - Women's Pacific cruiser bike.
Just like cruiser motorcycles are meant more towards style than outright performance (as opposed to sporty motorcycles), cruiser bikes are meant more towards style than being some kind of performance-oriented bicycle. Only difference is that nobody will look at you as a poser/poseur on a cruiser bike compared to a cruiser motorcycle. :)
BMX Bikes.
^ from: amazon.com - A Mongoose BMX bicycle.
BMX stands for "bicycle motocross" ("X" instead of cross). Think of these like non-motorized dirt motorcycles. They are best known for pulling off stunts like most motocross and supercross riders do. BMX bicycles are meant for those action sports types who ride while doing tricks. Everything from bunny hops to rail riding is what the BMX rider is all about. They are the rebellious riders who are all about pulling cool tricks and being real cool while riding.
These are the basic kinds of bicycles. Have you a favorite kind of bicycle?
--- Bicycles for Recreation and Sport ---
Before I begin the next section, I would like to thank the people who allowed their videos to be embedded. It's great to know my readers could view these videos without having to leave my blog (not to say that my readers/visitors would rather be any place besides "John's Blog Space").Bicycles for Recreation.
A bicycle can be a fun way to go around the block or through the park. Think of kids who enjoy going around on bicycles as they ride. There are older bike riders who may enjoy bike riding at a park- whether a city park or a dedicated skate park. Whatever the case, a bicycle can be fun to ride around on. Some people even have their own custom bicycles. Bicycles are as much a casual expression of who we are as any other thing. Basic bicycles to creative bicycles are out there for riding enjoyment.Want to make a scene and have fun? Try a tandem bicycle! Tandem bicycles are meant to have more than one person ride along with others. When coming up with this blog post, one person's YouTube channel shows that there is an actual science to tandem riding. While it may seem cute to have more than one person riding one bike, check this video out for more insight on tandem riding:
^ "Tandem Bike Riding"
Some people make custom bicycles; some even turned into tricycles. Look no further than with Lowrider bicycles. These bikes may have custom-made frames and accessories while also being fully tricked out. Talk about riding in style! Check out the lowrider bikes in this video:
^ "Lowrider Bike Commercial"
Bicycles for Sport.
In the sporting realm, bicycles have been great for working out. There are stationary bicyclesBicycles can also be great sporting equipment for those doing outdoors sports. There are a number of people who'll ride their bicycles in outdoor settings. Mountain bikers ride their bikes on some undulating and hilly trails. Here is an example of mountain bike riders going all-out:
^ "GoPro HD HERO camera: Mountain Bike Clip"
Those into action sports have seen bicycles being used at skate parks and at half pipes. Dave Mirra is one of the finest in performing amazing stunts and tricks on a bicycle. He is a multiple-time champion of BMX competition. A lot of these stunt bikes have bars on the wheels so they can pull off tricks riding on rails. This video below is an example of BMX stunts. This is Morgan Wade and his gold medal run in the Action Sports World Championships round in 2007 in Dallas, TX, USA:
^ "BMX: Morgan Wade's Gold Medal Run in Dallas, 2007"
And of course... let's not forget those who take part in bicycle tours and rallies. Here in the Houston area, we have a famous event called the MS 150, a 150-mile bicycle rally from Houston to Austin benefiting the fight against Multiple Sclerosis (or MS for short). There are many cycling events worldwide. The most of famous of which, is of course... the Tour de France. This is a look at how brutal bike rallies and tours can be:
^ "Tour de France 2011 Highlights"
You now know about cycling both for recreation and for sport.
--- Bicycle Safety and Gear ---
When riding a bicycle, are you geared? Do you know about being safe while riding? A few pieces of advice are mentioned here in this section.Bicycle Gear and Parts.
Here is a brief look at bike parts and accessories.• Training Wheels - if you're starting out trying to ride a bicycle, training wheels are a great way to start. I remember I had training wheels on my bicycle once I went from a tricycle to a bicycle.
• Custom Saddles - bicycles may have custom seats designed for various applications, ranging from racing to just average bike riding. Some seats are even recommended by doctors and physicians.
• Baskets and Carts - some bikes can be equipped with carts for carrying around things safely.
• Water Bottle Cage - if you have a water bottle, equip one to your bicycle to be able to take water with you on the go as you ride.
These are among many other different items and accessories for bicycles.
Bicycle Apparel.
Most casual bike riders usually wear street clothes. Serious cyclists usually wear specialized cycling apparel. Some of these items include bicycle jerseys as well as bike shorts. There are also bib shorts worn by cyclists, which are kind of like overalls for cyclists. There are also shoes and socks specially designed for cycling. Here is an example of someone wearing dedicated cycling apparel:^ from: redkiteprayer.com (best I could find) - This men's cycling outfit is an example of what cyclists wear as part of their outfit.
I am not any kind of cycling expert, but my best guess is that wearing such bicycle apparel helps you better perform as you're cycling. Those who compete in bicycle races will probably find wearing dedicated cycling apparel to better help you aerodynamically as you ride. Those bicycle racers often tuck down (just like motorcycle racers do) as they ride to get as little wind resistance as possible while at speed. Some cyclists wear bicycle gloves for protection and better grip.
For female bicyclists, there are special active skorts designed for those who want to wear a skirt while still being covered. These cycling skorts have attached shorts or bloomers to keep a cycling girl covered while also looking cute. There are even cycling dresses from one site I saw in preparing this blog post.
Bicycle Safety.
A riding helmet is the best method of protection. It is also a good idea to invest in knee pads. These (especially a riding helmet) can be very helpful to have if in the event of a head-on crash. I thankfully have never experienced an incident where I was thrusted off of my bicycle for all the times I've ridden a bicycle.It helps to wear light-colored clothing, especially if riding at night. Speaking of night bicycle riding, have reflectors at the front and the back so you can be better spotted in darkness. Don't also forget to let people behind and in front of you know when you're turning. Links to much more detailed bicycle safety measures will be showcased later in this blog post.
Equally important in all of this is making sure your bike is secure and protected. Be sure the bike is properly secure to a bike rack with a lock and a cable.
I hope you all are able to dress nicely and ride carefully while riding your bicycle.
--- Bicycle Manufacturers ---
Click on the hypertext link in each heading to visit the official websites of these bike manufacturers. The majority of these are mostly suited towards my American audience. I am not sure if any of these can ship overseas or are also available in other nations. These are only a few of so many different bicycle manufacturers and retailers:Bicycles: From Dedicated Bicycle Makers.
They are known for their bicycles. Visit any or all of these links to learn more about their products.• Schwinn - Well-known for producing great bicycles. In addition to riding bicycles, they also offer stationary exercising bikes.
• Mongoose - a very popular bicycle maker with a vast variety of bicycles to choose from for various applications.
• Huffy - Maker of many bicycles as well as scooters and other sporting equipment.
• Kent - With over 100 years of cycling, they offer a variety of bicycles for many age groups and in various styles.
• Trek Bicycle - Bicycle maker with loads of experience, having been around since 1976.
• Brodie - They offer many bikes mostly for adults. They go by the slogan of, "Real bikes for real people."
• Surly Bikes - Surly sells complete bicycles as well as bicycle frames.
• MIRRACO Bikes - a bicycle company founded by multiple-time BMX World Champion, Dave Mirra. Frames and parts are offered in addition to the many different bicycles offered.
• Terry Bicycles - a feminine-exclusive brand that offers bicycles for women as well as bicycle apparel and parts.
• Renovo Bicycles - a bicycle manufacturer featuring wooden frame bicycles.
• Chubby's Cruisers - A maker of cruiser bicycles offering various styles for adults and children. Accessories for ordered bicycles can be added to each bike upon ordering.
• Specialized Bicycle Components - A maker of sophisticated bicycles. Their bikes are made for many applications, for both adults and children. It even includes a bicycle made in conjunction with the McLaren Formula 1 racing team.
• Waldmeister Bikes - a German maker of wooden-frame bicycles.
• Prestigio Bikes - a bicycle manufacturer based in the Republic of San Marino. Site is in Italian, but is also available in Spanish and English.
• Shimano (North American link) - Japanese company that sells bicycles, and they also make various parts and apparel for bicycles. The Osaka-based company was established in 1921 and incorporated in 1940. They also offer products for rowing and fishing.
• Sexy Bicycles - Yes, this Australian bicycle maker is actually called Sexy Bicycles. They make stylish bicycles designed with an exciting array of colors.
Bicycles: From Auto Makers.
Did you know that auto makers have provided their own bicycles? Only links to legitimate, commercially-available bicycles are featured here.• Peugeot - Having made bicycles in the past, world-renowned automaker Peugeot offers a line of bicycles thanks to a new partnership with a well-respected bicycle maker. Peugeot bicycles are only offered in select European nations (including its native France) as well as Japan.
• Ferrari Bikes - Anyone even remotely educated about cars knows what kind of exotic ecstasy Ferrari provides. While they may not go as fast as their gasoline/petrol counterparts, Ferrari does provide some bicycles for your enjoyment. These bikes don't come cheap, though. Their cheapest-priced bike sells for about
• BMW - BMW makes both automobiles and motorcycles. They also make bicycles. Are these bicycles, then... the ultimate bicycle riding machines? I don't think they are sold outside of Germany or Europe because prices are only offered in Euros.
• Volkswagen (of Ireland) - Volkswagen and its long heritage of making automobiles also makes a number of bicycles. The bikes offered from this link are featured only for Volkswagen of Ireland.
• Mini Cooper Bicycle - The Mini Cooper is one of the finest automobiles of all time. Its heritage is prevalent on these bicycles. There are bikes offered for both adults and kids bearing the Mini Cooper namesake.
• Maserati - Better known as the luxury arm of Ferrari, Maserati made a bicycle called the Montante for Maserati 8CTF. It is an elegant bicycle from the Italian company.
• Land Rover - Land Rover is best known as a maker of rugged vehicles for off-roading. They also make bicycles for adults and children for multiple applications.
• Porsche - Pure pedal-pushing Porsche power. Porsche provides some bicycles that are as elegant and as capable as their cars. It isn't likely you'll draw stares on a Porsche bicycle as you would in a Porsche automobile. Of course, you could always fly the Porsche flag by attaching a Porsche bicycle to your Porsche Cayenne. :)
• McLaren (links to more info on the bicycle) - In a joint effort between the McLaren Formula 1 team and Specialized, the world's fastest bicycle was born- the S-Works + McLaren Venge. Visit the Specialized link to see the Venge Aero Road Bike co-developed by Specialized and McLaren. Or as an added bonus, let me share with you a video on this bicycle. Enjoy!
^ "Specialized S-works+McLaren Venge"
I may include more links in the future if I find more bicycle makers to feature.
--- Bicycle Resources ---
Resources for bicyclists and those into bicycles. Have a look around, this being my way of thanking you for reading this blog post:Individual Links on Bicycles and Cycling.
• People for Bikes• Bikes Belong
• International Mountain Biking Association
• Cyclingnews.com
• PedalHouston (Houston/Galveston area)
Bicycle Safety.
• Bike Safety - KidsHealth by Nemours « advice for children on riding bicycles• Bicycle Safety - How Not to Get Hit By Cars
• Kids and Bicycle Safety « provided by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration
• Kids Bike Quiz « test your knowledge of bike riding for kids.
Bicycle Dealers, Parts, and Accessories.
• Shop for bicycles and bicycle parts on Amazon• Performance Bike
• Cambria Bike
• Wheel World Bike Shop
• Just Bicycles
• PV Bicycle Center - Palos Verdes, CA, USA
More links may be included in any future edits.
I have never really been too fond of cycling to say I am any sort of bicycle person. I do hope you cycling fans have enjoyed my blog post. Remember to Subscribe and Follow if you love my work. If you're indulged in social media, GET SOCIAL WITH ME! Thank you for reading!
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Sunday, May 13, 2012
Speed Channel Showing... the EPL?
Speed Channel viewers were either upset or disappointed they would see something OTHER than cars or racing. Earlier today, Speed aired an English Premier League match with today being Survival Sunday in the EPL. There is NOTHING at all wrong with the EPL. I often times watch some association football. I usually catch a few big time matches in the EPL, the UEFA matches, and of course... watching my Houston Dynamo of the MLS. However, it is quite disparaging when a motorsports network showcases something other than cars or racing. That was the case in this one-time deal where an English Premier League match was aired after the 2012 Formula 1 Spanish Grand Prix. The Survival Sunday coverage in the United States was a joint effort between the ESPN networks and the FOX networks.
Sometimes, other peoples' comments and thoughts fuel my interest to blog. This is one of them, and this post concerns Speed Channel airing something other than racing. Feel free to share your thoughts on this topic if you have something to share.
Here is my take on this. I thought it was pretty low for Speed (of all networks) to air something other than what it normally airs. One could make the case for why TruTV would air March Madness games as opposed to what it normally airs. I don't even watch TruTV, so that's no problem to me. I do, however, watch Speed Channel. So imagine my disbelief when I'd see something like an English Premier League football match. Even Speed Channel's Facebook fan page made note of the featured EPL game.
So why did I mention TruTV earlier? TruTV is NOT a sports channel; Speed Channel IS a sports channel. Racing IS a sport. However, us racing fans are our own sort of niche (at least to most people). Many of us watch such a channel for racing and almost exclusively racing. So why, then, would a MOTORsports network show some traditional sport? My only guess was that there may not be other networks that would air coverage of the English Premier League's Survival Sunday, so Speed would showcase one game. National Geographic is a FOX channel, and that channel wasn't even used for showing one of these games. Even FX was used to air one of the games! The action sports network- FuelTV- even shown one of these EPL games.
When a network shows something other than what it normally does, it can say a number of things. Some people would say that it's a slap to the face to fans of a certain network to show what Speed shown earlier today. A lot of people who watch Speed do get bored or disappointed about certain reality shows and such that are featured. Like, I don't see how a show like "Pass Time" stays on Speed, but even more people would probably see "Pass Time" than a match of the English Premier League on a motorsports network. And if you thought I took this with skepticism, you should see what some of the people on Speed Channel's Facebook fan page mentioned about this coverage.
I must say that this weekend was a rare weekend which I saw a live F1 race. While I did see most of the 2012 F1 Spanish Grand Prix, I was disappointed that the national anthem ceremonies for both the winning driver and winning team wasn't aired as per usual. Yet Speed HAD to air this. I think it's disappointing. Most people critical of Speed would probably ask if curling or frisbee tossing would be shown on Speed next.
Let me just say one last time- there is absolutely nothing wrong with the English Premier League. My issue has mostly been that the EPL is somehow much bigger than any usual motorsports or automotive programming on Speed Channel that Speed had to air this instead of something it usually shows. That is what saddens me as a Speed Channel viewer.
If you're a Speed Channel watcher, how do YOU feel about Speed airing an English Premier League game instead of racing or cars? Thank you for reading and commenting!
Sometimes, other peoples' comments and thoughts fuel my interest to blog. This is one of them, and this post concerns Speed Channel airing something other than racing. Feel free to share your thoughts on this topic if you have something to share.
--- Speed Channel Showing... Football? ---
Please note that when I mean football, I am (of course) talking about what us Americans call "soccer." Or should I say, association football.Here is my take on this. I thought it was pretty low for Speed (of all networks) to air something other than what it normally airs. One could make the case for why TruTV would air March Madness games as opposed to what it normally airs. I don't even watch TruTV, so that's no problem to me. I do, however, watch Speed Channel. So imagine my disbelief when I'd see something like an English Premier League football match. Even Speed Channel's Facebook fan page made note of the featured EPL game.
So why did I mention TruTV earlier? TruTV is NOT a sports channel; Speed Channel IS a sports channel. Racing IS a sport. However, us racing fans are our own sort of niche (at least to most people). Many of us watch such a channel for racing and almost exclusively racing. So why, then, would a MOTORsports network show some traditional sport? My only guess was that there may not be other networks that would air coverage of the English Premier League's Survival Sunday, so Speed would showcase one game. National Geographic is a FOX channel, and that channel wasn't even used for showing one of these games. Even FX was used to air one of the games! The action sports network- FuelTV- even shown one of these EPL games.
When a network shows something other than what it normally does, it can say a number of things. Some people would say that it's a slap to the face to fans of a certain network to show what Speed shown earlier today. A lot of people who watch Speed do get bored or disappointed about certain reality shows and such that are featured. Like, I don't see how a show like "Pass Time" stays on Speed, but even more people would probably see "Pass Time" than a match of the English Premier League on a motorsports network. And if you thought I took this with skepticism, you should see what some of the people on Speed Channel's Facebook fan page mentioned about this coverage.
On the Other Hand...
To Speed Channel's credit, however; at least they didn't hype up the EPL Survival Sunday coverage like they do with NASCAR's All-Star Race. Speed would be damaging their own credibility as a motorsports channel by promoting something other than racing or cars.I must say that this weekend was a rare weekend which I saw a live F1 race. While I did see most of the 2012 F1 Spanish Grand Prix, I was disappointed that the national anthem ceremonies for both the winning driver and winning team wasn't aired as per usual. Yet Speed HAD to air this. I think it's disappointing. Most people critical of Speed would probably ask if curling or frisbee tossing would be shown on Speed next.
Let me just say one last time- there is absolutely nothing wrong with the English Premier League. My issue has mostly been that the EPL is somehow much bigger than any usual motorsports or automotive programming on Speed Channel that Speed had to air this instead of something it usually shows. That is what saddens me as a Speed Channel viewer.
If you're a Speed Channel watcher, how do YOU feel about Speed airing an English Premier League game instead of racing or cars? Thank you for reading and commenting!
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Saturday, May 12, 2012
Road America
Road America has long been a track I think of as a Grand Prix-style course. Based in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, USA; this 14-turn, 4.048-mile (6.515-kilometer) race course has hosted racing since its opening in 1955. High speeds and technical corners make it an exceptional challenge. Road America is one of the longest race tracks in America. Today, it is second-longest only to Miller Motorsports Park in Tooele, Utah, USA. This blog post is another in my "Race Tracks" series of posts regarding race tracks. Welcome to my post regarding the Midwestern racing challenge known as Road America.
^ from: bleacherreport.net - Road America is a very long course with several technical corners.
The Badger State's most difficult challenge lies in Road America. It hosts a variety of racing events ranging from cars to motorcycles. One of the premier events held at Road America include the Road America 500 run by the American Le Mans Series. There used to be races held on the roads of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, USA prior to races being held at Road America. It also has played host to various motorcycle races as well as even being host to the SCCA Runoffs. I personally feel this track would be a great Grand Prix-style course. If Road America were to be upgraded to maybe host Formula 1 or FIA GT or something (fancy garages connected to pit road and fancy grandstands), it would very much be a fabulous facility to host international-level racing. It already is a lovely place for racing as it is. Maybe the most memorable moment to me watching races at Road America on TV was in 2001 with Trans-Am. As many as 12 cars slid off the race track as heavy rain was pouring from the skies late! The race was later red flagged and called official. Sadly, Road America is also infamously known as the place where Katherine Legge suffered a serious crash in a Champ Car race. For all of you gamers, its challenge can be experienced virtually in a number of games. Among others: IndyCar Racing 2, ToCA Race Driver 2, the Forza Motorsport series, the Shift games, and other different racing games.
Between Turns 10 and 11 is a kink for motorcycle racing events.
^ "Lap of Road America with Patrick Long"
There's your look at Road America. To learn more about this fine racing facility, please visit www.roadamerica.com. Thank you for reading! You take care and have a great day/night.
--- Road America ---
Here is a look at Road America:^ from: bleacherreport.net - Road America is a very long course with several technical corners.
The Badger State's most difficult challenge lies in Road America. It hosts a variety of racing events ranging from cars to motorcycles. One of the premier events held at Road America include the Road America 500 run by the American Le Mans Series. There used to be races held on the roads of Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin, USA prior to races being held at Road America. It also has played host to various motorcycle races as well as even being host to the SCCA Runoffs. I personally feel this track would be a great Grand Prix-style course. If Road America were to be upgraded to maybe host Formula 1 or FIA GT or something (fancy garages connected to pit road and fancy grandstands), it would very much be a fabulous facility to host international-level racing. It already is a lovely place for racing as it is. Maybe the most memorable moment to me watching races at Road America on TV was in 2001 with Trans-Am. As many as 12 cars slid off the race track as heavy rain was pouring from the skies late! The race was later red flagged and called official. Sadly, Road America is also infamously known as the place where Katherine Legge suffered a serious crash in a Champ Car race. For all of you gamers, its challenge can be experienced virtually in a number of games. Among others: IndyCar Racing 2, ToCA Race Driver 2, the Forza Motorsport series, the Shift games, and other different racing games.
Talking Points of Road America.
I've played Road America in a number of games. The first three odd-number corners (Turns 1, 3, and 5) are all very tricky, especially Turn 5. You gain so much speed between Turn 3 and Turn 5, even through the kink at Turn 4. It can be very easy to overshoot Turn 5 and end up having to recover seriously. The most critical corners to me are Turns 1, 5, 8, 12 (Canada Corner), and Turn 14.Between Turns 10 and 11 is a kink for motorcycle racing events.
Video Lap.
What does four miles of racing look like? This video will give you a nice indication of Road America and the challenge it provides:^ "Lap of Road America with Patrick Long"
Lap Records.
(Lap record is as current as this post's initial date) The all-time lap record around Road America was set by Dario Franchitti in 2000. He took his (then) CART Champ Car to run a 1:39.866 around Road America. The fastest a motorcycle has gone around Road America (or one of them) was 2:11.913, set by Josh Hayes in 2011. To see more lap times and get more info on Road America, check out Road America's page on Trackpedia.There's your look at Road America. To learn more about this fine racing facility, please visit www.roadamerica.com. Thank you for reading! You take care and have a great day/night.
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Friday, May 11, 2012
Words Heal
Some people think words can't heal. Some people don't believe prayer helps. The point of this blog post is to say that words can heal as much as they can easily hurt. When you can't help someone immediately with actions, words and text are just as helpful. The problem, however, is that we are an action society. We prefer quick action or quick justice. While it is true that words alone can not reverse any wrong, they can provide some healing and some hope.
To provide some powerful words and inspiration, allow me to quote from someone I've blogged about before:
Bottom line is- words may not equal immediate action, but they can do a whole lot to offer peace and support. Some people use their voice to hate on people and say demeaning things to people. Well, why not use your same voice and offer kindness and help to those who may need it? It's not like you can only say bad things to people. Your words can help. I just get upset at times when people think words can't be as helpful as providing action. There are truly situations where legitimate action is more powerful than even the kindest of words and prayer. But for the most part, words are just as helpful as legitimate action in most cases.
Be helpful- use your voice. Use your words. Words heal. Thank you for reading!
To provide some powerful words and inspiration, allow me to quote from someone I've blogged about before:
"Break the silence. Use your voice."This quote from Arielle Lee Bair is very true in multiple contexts. Especially the "use your voice" portion means a whole lot. Let me give you an example. In my high school and college days, I had to talk with counselors and psychologists to help me feel better. If talking to these people helped me feel better in my worst times, then I know full well that words can heal for anyone dealing with any sort of issue. Trouble is... people think action is ALWAYS better than words. Well- offering kind words IS an action, so don't tell me (or anybody else) that your voice and your thoughts don't mean anything. I know and understand that offering prayer and kind words aren't going to resolve issues. However, at least it is better than not saying anything and letting someone who needs help (or would appreciate sympathy/help) just have their problems go unresolved.
-Arielle Lee Bair
Bottom line is- words may not equal immediate action, but they can do a whole lot to offer peace and support. Some people use their voice to hate on people and say demeaning things to people. Well, why not use your same voice and offer kindness and help to those who may need it? It's not like you can only say bad things to people. Your words can help. I just get upset at times when people think words can't be as helpful as providing action. There are truly situations where legitimate action is more powerful than even the kindest of words and prayer. But for the most part, words are just as helpful as legitimate action in most cases.
Be helpful- use your voice. Use your words. Words heal. Thank you for reading!
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Tuesday, May 8, 2012
Ryan Gosling Crazy Stupid Love
Ryan Gosling Crazy Stupid Love
Ryan Gosling Crazy Stupid Love
Ryan Gosling Crazy Stupid Love HD Wallpapers
Ryan Gosling Crazy Stupid Love Wallpapers
Ryan Gosling Crazy Stupid Love Photos
Ryan Gosling Crazy Stupid Love Pictures
Ryan Gosling Crazy Stupid Love Images
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