The glove is the ultimate defensive weapon of a fielder and although infielder and outfielder gloves are different in size, and the first base glove and catcher mitt is in a league of their own, there are certain basic methods for breaking a new glove in.There are many factors which affect the methods and quickness of breaking a glove in, such as quality of leather, softness and type of leather, web design and what the fielder feels they require in order to maximize its effectiveness.Although every one seems to have a secret formula, or knows someone who has a secret formula for breaking in a glove, we’ll explain the two most common methods in this article.The first method is of to follow the manufactures’ directions and follow their instructions, but for some reason we don’t think, that includes me most of the time, they know what they’re talking about.So we’ll proceed to the next method. The softness of the leather is directly associated with the cost of the glove, as a $500 glove will be much softer than a $100 glove. The reason I mention this is the first thing a player wants to achieve when breaking in a glove, is to create a pocket, which only use will accomplish, but the softness of the leather hastens the procedure.Here is a partial list of products which help soften leather, there are probably more, but these will suffice and are readily available.* Foaming Shave Cream
* Vaseline
* Saddle Soap
* Mink Oil
* Tanners Glove OilOne thing to be conscious of More is not always better, as some players will slop the oil all over the glove which only quickens deterioration and makes a slimy mess. Rather use a soft cloth and wipe small amounts of whatever leather softener you’re using into the leather until it disappears, then wipe off any excess which is not absorbed.Forming the pocket is the next step and there are several methods for accomplishing this. Playing catch, using the glove, is by far the best method to use, but sometimes it may be difficult to locate a throwing partner, which is why I include the following alternatives.* Use the batting cage. As the name indicates the original intended purpose of a batting cage is to help learn to hit, but it’s not the sole reason. There is nothing better than catching 50 – 100 70 mph fastballs to help form a pocket and do it quickly.* There is an old fashioned method, which is also effective in producing a pocket, and that is to work the leather softening agent into the leather, place a baseball (or softball if that’s your sport) into the pocket, fold the glove and tightly tie it together with a shoestring or rubber band. This may sound a little bit like baseball voodoo, but they do make devises specifically for this purpose.Remember, “more is not better” and use of the glove, no matter the grade of leather, will produce the desired results.
The Best Way to Break in a Brand New Baseball Glove
How to Design a Long Narrow Garden
The main problem with long narrow gardens is that they can feel like you’re standing in a corridor. In a long, narrow garden your eye is drawn straight to the boundaries making the space seem small and claustrophobic. This type of garden does not invite exploration and the furthest parts of the garden often remain dark, dank and unused. Counteracting the claustrophobic feeling and giving the impression of greater space and depth are the main challenges when designing a long, narrow garden.There are three main ways to deal with the problems of a long-narrow space. One strategy involves changing the perceived shape of the garden and tricking the eye into focusing away from the garden boundaries. Another method is to introduce drama by creating a more complex journey around the garden. The third way is to draw the eye upwards by introducing vertical elements that open up the garden by giving the appearance of more height.Although it seems counter-intuitive to close off a garden that is already feeling cramped, dividing the garden into separate areas is a very effective way to design a long-narrow garden. Creating separate garden rooms each with its own distinct character makes people want to use the whole garden and explore the next room. The garden will become more useable because each room has its own purpose. Breaking up the space is a great way of stopping the eye from immediately alighting on the rear boundary. This strategy creates a more stimulating journey and encourages exploration of the garden.Walls work well for creating garden rooms, especially if they have a window offering a tantalizing glimpse through to the next room. However, brick and block walls are expensive to build and other methods of dividing the space can be just as effective. Clipped hedges, pergolas, or a simple screen of posts and trellis with an archway through all make good partitions and may be more appropriate for the style and setting of the garden. Railway sleepers set on end like a huge vertical blind create a dramatic garden screen.The transitions between the garden rooms provide another opportunity to add visual and vertical interest. Circular moon gates add striking architectural detail, they also give height and their shape is excellent for focusing attention inside the garden. An arched doorway cut through a clipped hedge creates a dark outline that cries out to be explored.Circles and curves are a great for directing attention where it is desired. Using circular shapes for lawns and seating areas focuses the eye into the centre of the garden. An ‘S’ shaped path will draw attention away from the boundaries and give a more interesting journey through the garden. Placing some taller plants or trees in the deep curves of the ‘S’ creates informal divisions and stops the eye.Another design strategy that tricks the eye and creates a more exciting, indirect route around the garden is to set the plan on the diagonal. The lines of paths, lawns and borders set at 45 degrees to the boundaries draws the eye across the garden and gives the impression of greater width. Using zig-zag paths will provide a meandering walk around the garden.There are many different ways to create height in a garden, it can be done simply by including trees and taller plants. Pergolas are useful for creating instant vertical focus, they can be used as room dividers and give extra space for planting which is especially useful in a small garden. Clipped, formal hedges are also excellent for creating height, as a backdrop for planting and as walls for outdoor rooms.Long narrow sites can make fabulous gardens, but like any tricky space they need a good design that addresses all the practical issues, and includes a bit of wizardry to make them comfortable and inviting spaces to spend time in.
E-Commerce Strategies For the Developing Nations and Emerging Economies – National Level Strategies
E-commerce has the potential to bring many benefits in the economies and societies of all nations which may include growth in economies, enhance export competitiveness and ease jobs and business activities.However, the development and adoption of E-commerce by the developing countries and Emerging economies have so far been limited. Reasons for this are written, discussed and documented much. It is not the purpose of this article to discuss about them.Given those problems and obstacles E-commerce faces in these countries changes can be made if right strategies be put in place. I would like to indicate some E-commerce strategies that I believe should be priorities.1. Raising Awareness
Raising awareness and understanding about the benefits and implementation of E-commerce should be the primary task that these nations should do. Without good level of awareness it is almost an impossible task to practice E-commerce. However, it is not an easy task though. It may take some time to reach desired goals. It is also a sound approach using the Internet in major needs and interest areas of the people such as vacancies, billing information (electricity, telecommunications, etc.)2. E-commerce application for businesses
Electronic way of doing business makes enterprises to become more competitive in the global market. As the enterprises grow, new markets will be accessed and many new employment opportunities will be created. As a result, this facilitates the creation of wealth and sustainable economy.3. Government Roles
Experiences show that in many developed countries that have enjoyed fast growth in ICT, government has been closely involved in promoting ICT development. -United Nations Conference on Trade and Development, E-COMMERCE AND DEVELOPMENT REPORT 2003Government role is vital in the implementation and growth of E-commerce in the Developing nations and Emerging Economies. One of major and effective strategies for growing the practice of Internet usage is through e-government facilities. E-government is giving public facilities through the Internet. As a result this will create the opportunity for the society to explore the potential of the Internet for further business activities.