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It got me wondering. I mean, I'm not spending as much time with my PC as I used to. I admit that I find myself buying more games for my console than for PC. If a game releases on multiple platforms, I will most likely get the console version, preferable for xbox 360. To put it in short, I mostly prefer consoles to PCs. But it got me thinking - what does the future hold for computers as a gaming platform? Are we going to accustom computers with offices and consoles with homes?

I don't blam you if you are thinking the same. I mean, the PC graphics are oh-so last-generation, even if you do own a decent gaming rig. For the half that you spend on your PC, you will most likely find a top-of-the-line next generation console. And should I start about the next-gen graphics in consoles and HDTVs? Sure, that will soon change when Direct X 10 graphics cards hits Bangladesh, but come on, are you kidding me? Is anyone willing to cough up $500 just for a graphics card when you can get the wlite xbox 360 just for $480?

Then there isn't the hassle of ensuring that your system meets the requirements to play the game, just pop the disk inside your console and start playing - even no installation required! Unlike PCs, you don't have to constantly upgrade your consoles meaning that your "investment" won't get obsolete by the next year or just six months from now.

Besides, the analog controller in consoles is more fun to play with than a standard "keyboard and mouse" setup. Couple that with rumble and motion sensing support and you know what I mean.

Then there is the achievements in X360 and ps3 - the main reason why I bother to stick with single player games on consoles - bragging to your friends of your gamerscore is a truly satisfying experience. Now why don't we see that on PCs?

xbox live for 360 is, I believe, one of the greatest online multiplayer experiences avaialable at the moment. I know there is multiplayer support in Pcs, but it has to be more streamline. Games for Windows live is nothing but a flop. Look at consoles, ther are no viruses, spywares, adwares or crashes to deal with. And now you can browse the internet with consoles!

Heck, you even get to watch DVDs/HD-DVDs/Blu-Ray discs on consoles any experience "next-generation entertainment", which is expensive to do so on computers. And then you have to ensure that all your hardware is HDCP compliant or its standard definition or even no movies at all for you!

Now don't get me wrong. I've been using PCs since way-back 1995. But something needs to be done to help promote PCs as a gaming platform. The "Games for Windows live" and "one-click game installation" in Vista is one step forward in the right direction by microsoft. Sure, the PC is not entirely doomed and excels in certain areas. You cannot get the fast and twitchy gunplay in consoles as in PCs. And a true RTS experience is only possible on computers. But the point is that something needs to be done for this waning platform - and SOON - because consoles are quickly catching up.

Mushfiqur Rahman

We hear it all the timelose weight for your health. Few people however, realize the extent to which this is critical to their physical well-being and ultimately their life expectancy.

In January 2003, the Journal of the American Medical Association featured a study finding that obesity appears to lessen life expectancy, especially among young adults. The study showed an obese 20-year-old white male, (5'10")178cm and weighing (288 pounds) 130kg was estimated to lose 13 years of his life as a result of obesity.

It is now well research that a Western diet that leads to obesity may actually act to stimulate the growth of cancer cells. It is never too late to improve your health through healthful eating and adopting a more health-giving lifestyle. Here are simple steps to follow which can make an immediate improvement to your health and vitality.

1. Check to see if you are overweight or obese.
To find out your BMI you need to divide your weight (measured in kilos) by your height (measured in metres) squared. If the result is greater than 25, your health may be improved by losing weight.

2. Match your diet to your bodys requirements.
If you eat and drink more calories than your body requires you will put on weight. Learn to control calories and portion sizes, make recipes leaner, and eat infrequently from fast food restaurants. Also learn how to snack with healthful choices.

3. Colour your diet with a large variety of colorful, cancer-fighting fruit and vegetables.
There are seven different color ranges of both fruit and vegetables and by choosing between 5 to 9 daily serves from a wide range of fruit and vegetables, we are extending our consumption of cancer (and other disease) fighting nutrients.

4. Eat lean protein with every meal.
Protein provides a powerful signal to the brain providing a longer sense of fullness. The right source of protein is essential to controlling your hunger with fewer calories and necessary to maintain your lean muscle mass. Choices of protein should be flavored soy shakes with fruit; the white meat of chicken and turkey, seafood such as shrimps, prawns scallops and lobster and ocean fish or vegetarians may prefer soy based meat substitutes.

5. Rev up your metabolism with activity.
If you want to enjoy a lifetime of well being, exercise is a key ingredient. Thirty minutes activity each day that takes as much effort as a brisk walk is recommended for adults. Children should be active for an hour each day.

6. Get support to ensure you develop a healthful eating plan and reach your goal weight.
A study, Effects of Internet Behavioral Counseling on Weight Loss in Adults at Risk of Type 2 Diabetes shows that participants who had the support of weight loss coaching lost more weight than those who didnt. The study concluded that the support of a weight loss coach can significantly improve weight loss results.

Being overweight or obese has been identified next to smoking, as the most preventable major risk to developing cancer. Even small weight losses have been shown to have beneficial health effects. So its never to late to start and you can never be too young or too old to be concerned about your health and do something about achieving a more healthy weight.

(c) Copyright by Kim Beardsmore

Kim Beardsmore is a weight loss consultant whose business operates across 60 countries. Tons of recipes, articles, resources, free newsletter and more to help you lose weight and keep it off forever. Estimate your healthy body weight or receive a free weight loss consultation at http://www.weight-loss-health.com.au

Eliminating excuses is the first step on the path to physical fitness. This may be easier said than done...oops, that is also an excuse! We all have the same 24 hours in a day, and the body we were born with. Yet, people vary greatly in terms of fitness level. Why is that? Because the physically fit don't let lame excuses interfere with their commitment to their health.

Don't let the usual excuses keep you from starting, and sticking with, a reasonable exercise regimen:

1. "The gym is too far away/there isn't gas in the car/my cute workout clothes are dirty...{blah, blah, blah}"

Having your own exercise equipment, in your own domain, removes this line of reasoning. Forget commuting and work out at home. Not being willing or able to go somewhere doesn't have to get in your way.

2. "I don't have time to work out."

Working out will increase your energy, which will actually give you more time in your day, not less. And if you choose your exercises to give the most efficient workout, then 30 minutes, 3 times a week should be quite beneficial. That is possible by choosing fitness equipment that offers a variety of exercises, like the Bowflex Treadclimber, or a home gym that has multiple stations.

If you can't spare 30 minutes, 3 times a week for your own health, what on earth do you have time for?

3. "It hurts."

exercise should never hurt -- ever. Instead of giving up on exercise altogether, do low-impact activities. One way to ease stress on your knees and feet, for example, is to work out in water. Also, some exercise machines provide a similar effect. The Bowflex climber has "dual-treadles" that come up to meet your feet, which some say feels like walking in water.

It is important to always consult with a health care professional before starting any exercise routine, to ensure the activities you choose are appropriate. After all, the point is to get healthier, not injure yourself.

4. "Working out is boring."

No one said you had to do the same exercise over and over, until you're bored. Change it up a bit. Vary your routine to include your exercise machine three times a week, a brisk walk or jog twice a week, and swimming or yoga another once or twice a week. Your exercise equipment can also keep you from getting bored by enabling numerous different exercises (see #2).

5. "I'm too old to get in shape."

This might be the conclusion you draw if your exercise equipment doesn't offer you adjustable settings, to match the intensity to your current fitness level. That can lead to feelings of discouragement and keep you from wanting to continue. The Bowflex Treadclimber has adjustable settings and speeds, to customize your workout. After about six weeks, you'll probably feel younger, not older!

6. "It's not possible to look that good {as in before/after pictures or the bodies featured in commercials}."

No one can guarantee how you will look, at a higher level of fitness. But if you're getting healthier and have a good chance of looking a lot better, isn't it worth doing it anyway? Optimum health is the goal, better looks are a pleasant side effect. Think of it that way, and you won't feel so down when a six-pack doesn't appear in a week.

7. "But I don't need to lose any weight."

Weight loss is only one element to getting in better shape. There's also: getting stronger, increasing energy and stamina, better posture, staving off "old age", and reducing your risk of certain illnesses. Also, your weight may be redistributed in a more attractive way. Then there's the best reason to work out: fun! If you enjoy your workout, you'll do it more often, and will get more and more fit.

Excuses can be a way of postponing things you know you need to do. So eliminate them, one at a time!

Kathy Hildebrand is a professional writer who is easily bored with her "day job" assignments. So, she researches anything and everything of interest and starts writing. Writing about an extremely wide variety of subjects keeps her skills sharp, and gives her food for thought on future paid writing assignments.

More of her research and articles can be found at www.lasertargeted.com/bowflex and other sites around the internet.

A modern clothes washing machine can suffer from odors or mildew. It may build to the point where the odors seem to overwhelm all other aspect of the clothes washing experience. The causes can be varied but generally are due to moisture build-up within the clothes tub.

Since the washing machine itself operates full of water the presence of moisture is typical. The problems usually begin either when the water is not removed at the end of the cycle by the drain system, or for some other reason, excess water accumulates inside the tub.

If the drain system is suspected test the clothes immediately after the cycle has ended. The cheek method works well. Remove a towel from your completed load of washing. Place it against your cheek. The towel should feel cool against your cheek without feeling wet. If the towel feels wet place it back into the washing machine and re-spin the load. If a second spin removes more moisture then your washing machine is not reaching its maximum spin speed.

Associated with the slow spin speed is overloading of the washer. To test for overloading wait until your normal load has completed and come to a full stop. Then remove two or three items and restart the cycle from the rinse position. Let the washing machine fill with water, and go completely through the rinse, drain, and spin cycles. Again let the machine complete the cycle and come to a full stop. If the clothes are now properly spun, suspect overloading.

There are many things that can affect the spin speed. The most common is an unbalanced load. An unbalanced load will not allow the tub to reach the maximum spin speed. Its usually accompanied by the washing machine either jumping, or being noisy. If this is allowed to continue moisture will remain inside the tub at cycles end. This will cause the machine to smell musty and can eventually lead to the presence of mildew.

All washing machines must come to maximum spin speed to remove the moisture from the clothes. Although the drain pump will remove the majority of water, it is the spinning that removes the moisture from the clothing. If for any reason the maximum spin speed is not reached the moisture within the clothing will tend to redeposit itself inside the washing machine. This is common for people who allow the wet clothes to sit inside the machine long after the wash cycle has been completed. This simple act often leads to odors or mildew. For this reason avoid washing right before bedtime, or before going to work in the morning.

If your washing machine is a front-loading style the possibility of odors is something about which you must be aware. Moisture can accumulate at both the inside surface of the door and the interior. To alleviate this problem dry off the inside surfaces of the door with a clean cloth as soon as your washing is finished. If possible, leave the door slightly open after your washing is completed. This allows warm room air to enter the machine while the machine sits idle.

Also, gently wipe off the rubber seal at the front of the washing machine. It often has grooves, ridges, or small crevices in its surface where water can accumulate. Be aware that along with the wash water will be a small amount of detergent. If allowed to accumulate it can become sour and heighten the bad smell. This is especially possible for anyone with sloppy washing habits.

A final note about front-loading washers is in regard to liquid fabric softeners. If used full strength they may be involved in the odor problem. When used full strength it can become deposited in the detergent dispenser or the front door seal. Once deposited the softener can become sticky, allowing lint and dirt from the clothes to adhere to these surfaces. This washing debris can then cause a smell if left to build up.

At full strength from the bottle their concentration may be too high for the small quantity of water used within a front loader. Liquid fabric softeners should be diluted before placed into these washers. The recommended mixture is six parts of water to every one part of softener. To regulate your liquid fabric softener, keep a pre-mixed amount in a secondary bottle. When fabric softener is required pour it into the washing machine from the pre-mixed rather than the original bottle.

If your clothes washing machine presently has an odor use some of the above methods to isolate the cause. If cleaning the problem area is unsuccessful you may need to take further action. Many consumer websites suggest multiple applications of hot water and a cup of white vinegar. This may be helpful. My experience has shown this method is more preventative than corrective. For washing machine odours we generally recommend the use of a strong washing machine cleaner. One of the most affective is Glisten. Another one is called Ysano. Both can be purchased at most appliance parts stores. At a price of approximately $10 it is well worth the investment.

Copyright 2006 Donald Grummett. All rights reserved. Need answers about repairs and maintenance of Household Appliances? With 35 years experience Donald Grummett can help. Visit http://www.mgservices.ca to learn much more invaluable information.

Many women experience weight gain during the premenstrual phase or the two weeks immediately before their periods. Some of this weight gain is temporary and is caused by fluid retention in the body resulting from hormonal changes. Sometimes, certain food cravings during the premenstrual phase may result in binge-eating that eventually causes weight gain. If a woman has bad period pain, headaches, or mood changes, she may be less likely to adhere to her regular exercise routine. Limited exercise, combined with increased eating, work together to increase weight. Certain antidepressant medications may also cause weight gain as a side effect.

There are several ways to reduce weight gain during the premenstrual phase. A regular exercise routine and a balanced, nutritious diet are the most important lifestyle factors. Foods high in refined sugars should be replaced with those that are high in complex carbohydrates, protein, and fiber. Food cravings can be managed by getting adequate sleep, eating smaller and more frequent meals, limiting caffeine intake, staying well hydrated, and doing at least some exercise. Reducing salt intake in the last few days before ones period can help minimize bloating and fluid retention. If fluid retention and bloating are pronounced, a diuretic such as spironolactone can be used to remove excess fluid from the body. Calcium supplements may also help reduce bloating and other PMS symptoms.

If a woman is on antidepressant medication, she can discuss with her physician the possibility of switching to a drug that does not cause weight gain. If this is not possible, weight loss strategies, such as increased exercise and a diet that restricts the total number of calories consumed, can help. Discontinuing antidepressant medication may result in worsening depression and should not be considered as a weight loss option.

PMS provides detailed information about PMS, PMS remedy, PMS symptoms, PMS treatment and more. PMS is the sister site of Ovulation And Conception.

In the dynamic city of New york, the real estate scene is thriving with upscale, luxurious condos. Many of these condos are available right in the heart of the city. One of the advantages of living in a condominium is the fact that you can still live close to all of the excitement of the downtown city life. And in nyc you never run out of things to do or people to see.

A great tip to remember when looking for your new residence is to make sure you get a loan pre-approval letter before you start your actual hunt for the perfect condo. This letter will not only give you a better idea of the amount of money you have to work with, but it will also give you heightened credibility.

Once you have found your dream condo be sure to take in all this spectacular city has to offer! New york City is one of the brilliant metropolises of the world; it represents one of the worlds centers for fashion, business, shopping and culture. The Big Apple has great things to offer you and your family.

There are many activities and events that are children-centered and family friendly. New york Citys Coney island is home to Astroland Amusement Park, which contains the New york City Landmark Cyclone Rollercoaster. There are also childrens museums available including the Childrens Museum of manhattan and the Brooklyn Childrens Museum. Also, you can visit NewYorkKids.net to find an enormous list of nyc family activities, shows, museums, tours, shopping, beaches, sports and attractions.

For sports fans there is never a dull moment in NYC! The citys teams include the Yankees (MLB), Mets (MLB), Liberty (WNBA), Knicks (NBA), Rangers (NHL), Islanders (NHL), Giants (NFL), Jets (NFL) and the Magic and Metrostars soccer teams. Make sure to take advantage of all these sports offerings, pick your favorite teams and enjoy all the excitement they provide.

New york City is also home to the 843 acre refuge of central Park. This luxurious oasis located directly in the heart of the bustling city provides 25 million annual visitors with a place to relax and enjoy some recreation. Activities in the Park include horse-drawn carriage rides, rock climbing walls, tai Chi, yoga, music in the Park, basketball, tennis, chess, cross-country skiing, ice skating, lawn sports, swimming, birding, fishing, soccer and football.

The city also holds the annual ING New york City Marathon. In 2000, the race accommodated over 30,000 athletes from all around the world, representing more than 100 countries! The marathon travels through the five boroughs of nyc and ends in central Park.

Another great thing about nyc is that there is always a cultural activity or event happening. Whether you want to visit one of their world-renown art museums, catch a Broadway musical or visit the exquisite Metropolitan Opera, your weekends can always be filled with entertaining, enriching events.

As you look for the perfect condo for you and your family make sure to pay particular attention to location. Find a residence that is centrally located so you can experience the excitement of living in the heart of one of the worlds most renowned cities.

Inside New York City Real Estate is a network entirely devoted to real estate information. The entire Inside Real Estate network has more than 100,000 pages of real estate for cities allover the United States. Inside Real Estate covers several topics from the basic "how to's" of real estate to city-specific real estate information.