I'm using the particle emitter and wonder if there's a way to not have to sit through the calculations twice (once when setting the frame several seconds in and then again when rendering). 

Thanks!

Never mind... I found the little button that turns off the calculations in 3D view.  Doh!  Now, all I need is a good tutorial about applying forces...

Here are a couple for starters,

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6ksxcqHt68

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2SsebQnR_qM

 

Cripeman's tutorials are great!

Thanks for the link to the tutorials, but I'm still having trouble trying to get the effect I want.

I'm trying to create a shower scene where bubbles are sliding down and following the contour of a body.  I've got the bubble particle emitter set up and it drops bubbles on the body but they fall off after falling over the arm and don't follow the body. (as shown)

I tried using a directional force and got nightmarish results.  (Not shown here)

I'll post my settings in the next post.

Here are my particle settings

I'm no expert, but you might work with some of the settings in the Advanced tab. Try adjusting the Physics sliders and the Local Gravity.

Sorry I can't be of more help. Not feeling up to snuff at the moment.