Some of us are born with a nice singing voice, but regardless of natural ability there are things we can do that will improve our ability. Whether you’re singing on a stage or around a campfire, don’t be shy about practicing and leveling up. Firstly, whether you’re new or not you should always rehearse with scales. Warming up is important but the reason why singers doing scales is a cliche is that you’re looking to push into the edges of your ability. Just as an athlete works

How do adults make new friends? I’ve come to realize that even though I complain about making new friends I’m well versed in how to do it. This is a function of having moved dozens of times and also because I was often the new kid who got picked on. I developed a thick skin and a need to help others feel welcome instead of rejected. Rejection sucks. A few things to consider first: People feel naturally friendly toward other people they see for a short while on a regular basis

Wireless headphones can be your new best friend when you become a parent, particularly if you share a small apartment with your children, like we do. Not only can you watch your own programs or listen to radio while the children are sleeping, you can also have the kids wear them when they’re watching one of their insipid television programs for the umpteenth time. They are pricey. You can expect to spend around $150 USD for a cheaper pair. But, boy howdy, do they pay for them

Travel tip #4 – take it slow Something you can expect when you’re packing or moving is that you’re going to injure yourself in some spectacular and stupid fashion. There will be a suitcase in your way where there is normally only pathway to the bathroom at three o’clock in the morning. Start packing well in advance of your move date. At least three weeks. Take it sloooooow. See the move as an opportunity to sell unused items, mend broken items, give away other useful items, a

TIP #3 – no suitcase needed If you’re relocating, don’t fly with a suitcase. Take a cardboard box at the maximum allowable limit (currently 1 per purchased seat, 127 inches height/width/depth & no more than 50 lbs) and fill it densely with all of your most needed items. I call this a “starter” box. You’ll have everything you’ll need at your new place. Most airlines will allow you to pay an extra luggage fee so you might even be able to take more than one of these boxes. Anot

I’m in the midst of the packing. It’s just as crappy as I remember. As I’ve done this annually my whole life, and often intercontinentally, I’ve picked up a few tricks. I’ve never seen these outlined anywhere else, but then again I’ve never consulted experts so perhaps I’m repeating stuff you’ve already considered. [Only twenty of these to pack up a family of four yet it still feels like too much stuff.] My moves are complicated by the fact that I try to be green so very litt