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https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Your-Dog%27s-Toothbrush

How to Clean Your Dog's Toothbrush

To maintain good dental hygiene for your dogs, use a separate toothbrush for each dog. After each use, rinse the toothbrush with warm water and be sure to wash away any toothpaste and loose food particles stuck in the bristles. You can remove small or particularly stubborn particles with a toothpick. When you're not using the brush, store it bristle-side up in an open container so it can air dry. Don't keep it in a closed container, since this can promote the growth of mold and bacteria. You should also store your dog's toothbrush in a separate container from your own to avoid cross-contamination.

Use a separate toothbrush for each dog. Sharing toothbrushes can lead to an exchange of microorganisms. Use a separate toothbrush for each of your dogs to prevent infection or illness. Rinse the toothbrush after each use. After brushing your dog's teeth, rinse the toothbrush under warm water. Remove any toothpaste, food particles, and debris from the toothbrush with your thumb. You can also use a toothpick to remove smaller particles. Store the toothbrush in an open-air holder. Place your dog's toothbrush upright in its own open-air holder. Do not store it in a drawer or a closed container. Closed spaces create moist environments where mold, bacteria, and microorganisms can grow. Store your dog's toothbrush in a separate holder to prevent cross-contamination with your toothbrush. Pour ½ cup (120 ml) of water into a glass. Then, add in a ½ cup (120 ml) of white distilled vinegar to make a 50% vinegar solution. Vinegar is a natural disinfectant that will not harm your dog. Soak the toothbrush for 30 minutes. Place the head of your dog's toothbrush into the glass with the mixture. Let it sit in the mixture for 30 minutes. Remove the toothbrush after 30 minutes, and rinse it well with warm water. Disinfect your dog's toothbrush every four to six weeks, or as needed. Replace the toothbrush. When you can visibly see discoloration, a buildup of residue, and a matting or fraying of the toothbrush bristles, then it is time to replace your dog's toothbrush with a new one. Your dog's toothbrush should look clean and straight at all times. Try to replace your dog's toothbrush every four months. You can also purchase a pack of disposable toothbrushes at your local pet supply or grooming store, or online.

Use a separate toothbrush for each dog. Rinse the toothbrush after each use. Store the toothbrush in an open-air holder. Pour ½ cup (120 ml) of water into a glass. Soak the toothbrush for 30 minutes. Replace the toothbrush.

https://www.wikihow.com/Protect-Yourself-from-a-Serial-Killer

How to Protect Yourself from a Serial Killer

Although serial killers are extremely rare, you may feel safer if you know how to protect yourself. Avoid walking alone at night, especially in quiet areas with no witnesses. Be cautious of people asking for help or needing a lift, since some serial killers try to play on your good nature to get you alone. If you think someone is dangerous, get away from them as soon as possible. Draw attention to yourself by yelling and making a lot of noise. If you have to fight back, aim for their most vulnerable parts, like their eyes, neck, and groin. You can also carry pepper spray to use in a self-defense situation, but make sure you learn how to use it safely.

Be aware of your surroundings, always. Pay attention to where exits are located, objects and visual obstructions near you, and the people in your immediate area (or a lack of others entirely). Know where the nearest populated environment is to your current location, in case you feel threatened and need to seek a crowd. Know where the nearest police or fire station is in areas you normally drive through. Don't mistake familiarity for security. Even if you are in a parking lot you often drive through or stop in during the day, do not assume it is also a safe place at night. Travel with someone whenever possible, especially at night. Whether you are walking down the street or to your car, driving around an unfamiliar place, or jogging in a park, it is always better to be with someone you know than alone. If you must go somewhere alone, tell someone in your family or housemates where you are going and at what time. If you live alone, text a friend or family member letting them know where you will be and when to expect to hear from you next. Act with purpose. Walk confidently, looking ahead, like you know exactly where you are heading. Never look lost or unsure of what you are doing or where you are going. Don't ask random people on the street for directions. Go inside a shop and ask a member of staff instead. Always park near a lit lamppost in car parks. This will keep your car illuminated at night and also will be easier to remember where you parked so you aren't walking aimlessly around the area or looking for your car. Lock your car doors. Do this as soon as you get into your car. Avoid sitting in a parking lot fiddling with the radio, checking your mobile phone, putting on your seatbelt, or anything else you tend to do before you start driving. Always keep your doors locked while driving, especially in urban areas where there are lots of traffic lights and junctions. Lock your doors and windows at home. Most burglaries occur by criminals by trying out door handles or windows in a neighborhood until they find one that is unlocked. Don't risk it. Beware of needy strangers. It is always nice to help people, but some people are extra sympathetic. Killers often prey on these sympathies to incite them to drop their guard. If someone tries to stop you for any reason—whether they need your help or are claiming to be helping you out of the goodness of their hearts—don't automatically assume their intentions are sincere. Say “no” if someone unknown asks for your help getting to/into their vehicle. Whether they are limping with a cane, carrying too many packages, or whatever the reason is, if it sounds fishy, decline to help. Avoid giving directions to unknown people in isolated areas. If they really need directions, they will drive to the nearest service station or call someone on their mobile phone. Trust your gut instinct. If someone approaching you gives you the creeps, do not engage them in any way. Anyone in your surrounding area that makes you feel uncomfortable should be avoided. If you are entering a situation that feels like it might go horribly wrong, get out of it immediately. Be wary of getting into a lift with a suspicious person. Wait for the next one and risk being considered rude. If a car parked next to yours looks suspicious, like a panel van, go back inside and ask someone to escort you to your car. Someone with a long story with lots of details describing how and why they need your help is likely making their story up. There is nothing wrong with saying, “No, sorry, I can't help you.” Never let strange people into your home. If someone arrives at your door as a service person you were not expecting, call the company and verify before opening the door. Anyone claiming to need assistance can wait until a police car arrives to help them. Avoid giving personal information to strangers. Make your social media profiles private and don't post where you are or where you will be at any specific time. If you participate in online dating, don't give out your home or work address without having met the person a few times. Always schedule dates (whether romantic or “friend-dates”) with new acquaintances in well-populated public areas. Run away. If you feel threatened by a suspicious person or are approached by a would-be attacker, the best way to avoid getting hurt is to run away from this person and towards a busy public area. Escaping is the quickest way to end an attack. Don't rely on adrenaline to give you super speed. Engage in regular exercise so that you are physically strong enough to run quickly and far enough to get away. Wear reasonable shoes anytime you are walking around by yourself. Unless you wear your heels to the gym, you won't be able to run far in them. Save fashionable footwear for nights out with a group of friends, or keep a pair of flats with you for walking. Hide from your attacker, if you cannot escape the scene. Plan a safe hiding location inside your home, preferably with two nearby exits. If a serial killer comes in one exit, you should be able to get out using the other. Make sure the put your mobile phone on silent and hold so that it doesn't vibrate. Yell “back off! ” and push your attacker. Keep your voice confident and authoritative and yell as loudly as you can. If anyone is within hearing distance, you might attract their attention. Even if nobody hears you, you have shown your attacker that you are not an easy target and are not worth the risk. This is better than yelling “help!” Sometimes people will avoid getting involved if they sense they may also get hurt or have to deal with police after an attack is reported. “Back off” sounds like you are capable of fighting back. Serial killers are typically methodical in making sure there is little risk of getting caught before approaching a potential victim. Carry and learn how to use pepper spray. Pepper spray, extract from hot peppers, can be effective at inhibiting an attacker if used correctly. Find a class teaching proper administration and storage before buying or carrying this device. Many users accidentally spray themselves when the canister gets lost in their bag or purse. Consider it like any other weapon you would need to learn to use correctly to avoid self-injury. Learn self-defense techniques from a trained instructor. There is a lot of advice on the internet for protecting yourself in a fight, but reading it is not the same as learning it. Self-defense classes like Krav Maga teach specific responses for common attacks, and attending classes provides a chance for you to practice real world advice. Make sure to attend classes with a certified instructor to supervise you and make sure you will not injure yourself through inexperience. Check your local government and non-profit websites. Many cities offer self-defense classes for free or on a sliding scale based on income. Use your strongest body parts to counterattack. Your strongest parts are your elbows, head, and knees. Which one you use depends on your own position relative to that of your attacker. Use your elbows, hands, or head for attacking the upper body. Use your knees or feet to attack their lower body. Do not step in closer to use your arms or hands if you can use your legs or knees instead! Aim for their most vulnerable body parts. Vulnerable places on your attacker include the eyes, neck, groin, and knee. Use your fingers or thumbs to poke or gouge your attacker's eyes. This will cause a lot of pain and disrupt their vision temporarily, giving you time to run away. Thrust your elbow into your side of your attacker's neck, using your body weight. If you can't use your elbow, hold your fingers straight, with your thumb tucked underneath, and hit the side of their neck like a knife strike as hard as you can. If your attacker attempts to grab you from the front by your arms or shoulders, knee or kick them in the groin. Kick the side of your attacker's knee to throw them off balance and cause injury. Use everyday objects as weapons if necessary. Carry your keys sticking out between your fingers of a closed fist when walking alone at night or in scary areas. If attacked outside, throw dirt in your attacker's eyes. Use a pen or pencil as a stabbing tool. If attacked, keys and writing utensils can be used to stab your attacker's eyes or throat. Don't falter and use full force if you really feel you are in danger. A half-hearted attempt to hurt someone will fail. Once you commit to an action, follow through with fullest intention. Learn to escape typical grab attacks. If someone tries to pull you by your wrists, lower your center of gravity, lean towards your attacker, and bend your elbow upwards towards his/her arm to free yourself. If someone grabs you from behind, sit down on the ground as quickly and with as much force as possible. If you cannot sit, lower your center of gravity and thrust your elbow backwards into their neck or head.

Be aware of your surroundings, always. Travel with someone whenever possible, especially at night. Act with purpose. Lock your car doors. Lock your doors and windows at home. Beware of needy strangers. Trust your gut instinct. Never let strange people into your home. Avoid giving personal information to strangers. Run away. Hide from your attacker, if you cannot escape the scene. Yell “back off! Carry and learn how to use pepper spray. Learn self-defense techniques from a trained instructor. Use your strongest body parts to counterattack. Aim for their most vulnerable body parts. Use everyday objects as weapons if necessary. Learn to escape typical grab attacks.

https://www.wikihow.com/Wear-Hijab-with-Confidence

How to Wear Hijab with Confidence

Wearing a hijab can feel scary at the beginning, so start by practicing how to put the hijab on properly, since knowing it's safe and secure will help you feel more confident. Next, find someone who respects your decision, like a close family member or friend, who can give you moral support. Then, find a gathering where you can meet other Muslim girls who wear hijabs to help build up your self-confidence. Finally, pray to Allah for the strength to follow your beliefs and stick to your decision.

Clarify your decision with yourself. The most important thing you need to do before wearing hijab is to clarify yourself whether you are ready to wear it or not. Overcome your confusion. Many girls are confused about wearing hijab and its later-on effects on their life. Sit in front of the mirror and make it clear to yourself that Allah has commanded all Muslim girls to wear hijab and to cover themselves. This may help you to overcome your confusion. Prepare yourself to wear hijab. Once you have seriously considered the importance of wearing hijab, you are mentally ready to move on with you decision. Pray To Allah. Seek for Allah's help to stick to your decision, make your will stronger and most importantly, grant you with the confidence to fulfill His command. Allah is The Best Listener and The Best Helper. Make Dua' to Him and Inn Shaa Allah, He will help to make all your problems easier for you! Be strong. When you are ready mentally to wear Hijab, strengthen your will. You might have to face certain things ahead that you will not expect, but remember that this always happens when you are doing something right. Share your decision with your parents. If your parents support you, this will definitely make you more confident. If you are afraid that your parents might not support you, tell either of them (the one you feel closer to) in the most polite way. Do not lose your will if neither of them stand with you. That is the time to stand up for your beliefs and face criticism. Find someone who respects your decision. Be it your sister or brother, friend, cousin or anyone else you believe will stand along your side and will become your moral support. Meet with other Muslim girls who wear hijab. Be in a gathering of hijab wearers. This will build up self-confidence, which is very important. You might also learn from their experiences and how they coped with initial difficulties. You are not the only one who faced initial problems. Never lose hope. Even if you feel like there is no one in the entire world to help and support you, do not forget that Allah is always there for you. He always makes easier the ways for those who are willing to move along the right path. Keep yourself motivated from the start. There is always a strong reason why Muslim girls choose to wear hijab. Make it your source of motivation. If you are inspired by someone or realize that you should wear it because you're a Muslim girl, then get ready to wear it. Do not doubt yourself. Remember that the first one to stop you from wearing hijab is your inner-self. Be patient. Once you start wearing hijab, you might have to face criticism, even if you belong to a Muslim country. See that there are girls who wear hijab in a non-Muslim state. Remain positive and look for inspirations. Patience will surely prove fruitful for you. Read about the Wives and Daughters of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). There is no better inspiration in the whole world then the Muslim women of initial period of Islam. Wear it with confidence. Now that you have started wearing hijab, wear it with full confidence, because you are not doing anything wrong. You are following your beliefs. You are doing this to please Allah and to completely abide by the sermons of Islam. Practice to wear hijab properly. Initially, many Muslim girls find it difficult to manage with hijab. If you have someone to guide you on how to wear it properly, learn from them. There are also many guidelines available on the internet. Search for them and practice regularly to get a proper and complete look. Keep yourself comfortable. In the start, you might be feeling a bit irritated with it, since it takes some getting used to. Do not worry. It takes very little time to get comfortable with hijab, if you have a strong will. Remember that hijab is not only for the head. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning)“And tell the believing women to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts) and not to show off their adornment except only that which is apparent (like both eyes for necessity to see the way, or outer palms of hands or one eye or dress like veil, gloves, head-cover, apron), and to draw their veils all over Juyoobihinna (for example, their bodies, faces, necks and bosoms) and not to reveal their adornment except to their husbands, or their fathers, or their husband's fathers, or their sons, or their husband's sons, or their brothers or their brother's sons, or their sister's sons, or their (Muslim) women (for example, their sisters in Islam), or the (female) slaves whom their right hands possess, or old male servants who lack vigor, or small children who have no sense of feminine sex. And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment. And all of you beg Allah to forgive you all, O believers, that you may be successful”[Al-Noor 24:31]. With regard to the Ahadeeth: It was narrated from Safiyyah bint Shaybah that 'Aa'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) used to say: When these words were revealed – “and to draw their veils all over Juyoobihinna (i.e. their bodies, faces, necks and bosoms)” – they took their izaars (a kind of garment) and tore them from the edges and covered their faces with them.

Clarify your decision with yourself. Overcome your confusion. Prepare yourself to wear hijab. Pray To Allah. Be strong. Share your decision with your parents. Find someone who respects your decision. Meet with other Muslim girls who wear hijab. Never lose hope. Keep yourself motivated from the start. Do not doubt yourself. Be patient. Read about the Wives and Daughters of Prophet Mohammad (PBUH). Wear it with confidence. Practice to wear hijab properly. Keep yourself comfortable. Remember that hijab is not only for the head.

https://www.wikihow.com/Buy-a-New-Car

How to Buy a New Car

To buy a new car, start by researching the kind of vehicle you want by looking up reviews in Consumer Reports magazine or online so you're prepared and knowledgable. Next, look at your finances and make a firm budget so that a dealer won't be able to talk you into buying a car you can't afford. Once you find a car you like, call around to other dealerships and get quotes for similar vehicles over the phone. Then, call the original dealership back and ask them to beat their competitor's price, which will give you the best deal.

Do your homework. Being in control from the start is all about knowing what you want and knowing how to get it. Car salespeople can seize control from people who don't know what they want by trying to sell them a car that's not right for them. Don't let that happen to you. Be prepared. Know what you want. Take ownership of your car search! Get the most recent annual auto issue by Consumer Reports magazine, which is usually put out in April. Consumer Reports will give you a wide range of reports — everything from the best cars priced under $25,000 to the worst cars of the year. Talk to people. Nothing beats a good old-fashioned conversation with a human being. Why is that? Because reports made by "industry experts," while valuable in their own right, might not hit home with Mr. and Mrs. Smith. Solicit feedback from people you trust about the cars they love. Figure out your priorities. What's the most important feature to you in a new car? Do you have a small, but growing family you need to accommodate? Look for roomy sedans, SUVs and/or minivans with stellar safety ratings. Do you have a job in sales and want to project an image? A sports car or coupé might fit the lifestyle. Do you plan on hauling or towing cargo on a regular basis? A truck is probably what you're looking for. Try to match the vehicles you're interested in with the lifestyle you want or have. You won't be as happy if your needs and your car are at crosscurrents. Narrow down your search by drawing up a budget. You've done the initial research, and maybe you have half a dozen cars you're interested in. Now comes the hard part — making a budget. Because financing is so ubiquitous these days, it can be tempting to over estimate what you can actually afford in monthly payments, as well as the type of interest rate you'll get. Making a reasonable budget based on your financial facts will further winnow down the cars that you can afford. How much of a down payment can you make? The larger the down payment, the less you'll have to pay over the life of your loan. It's likely you'll pay lower monthly payments as well. Decide what to do with your current car, if you have one. Usually, you'll be able to get more for your current car if you sell it yourself than if you trade it in. On the other hand, it may take significantly longer, and include much more hassle, selling it on the open market. Figure paying about 10% in fees, taxes, etc. when you determine how much you can truly afford. For example, if you set a budget of $25,000, that doesn't necessarily mean that you can afford a $25,000 car; that's because a total of $2,500 will probably be added on to the MSRP, making it $27,500. Determine the invoice price. The invoice price is the price that the dealership paid for the car. This price will probably be one of the most important bargaining tools in your arsenal. Still, it doesn't tell the full story. For one, the invoice price doesn't factor in advertising, promotion, display, and sales costs that dealers pay for the vehicle. And dealers traditionally only mark up new cars 10% more than the invoice price. It's possible that asking for a vehicle at or just above the invoice price will cost the dealership money. So use the invoice price, but don't abuse it. Find out other important price points. The MSRP is the "manufacturer's suggested retail price," and it's exactly what the name implies. The manufacturer usually sets the MSRP so that dealers can still make a profit while offering customers a discount on the MSRP. The fair purchase price is a weekly-updated report on what actual buyers are paying for specific cars in current market conditions. This average transaction price is good to look at as you decide what you feel comfortable paying for a new car. Be prepared for the market to fluctuate. Like any other market, the market for new cars fluctuates. A popular car in short supply will most likely command a price above the MSRP and even above the fair purchase price. Get an insurance quote on the models that you're looking at. Insurance is a necessity in many states, and the truth is that certain cars — sports cars, or super- or turbocharged cars — can add a hefty amount to your premium. You'll probably find it helpful to talk with your insurance dealer about possible cars before you pull the trigger. You could end up exceeding your budget if you have to tack on an additional $150 per month in insurance costs. Decide how you'll get financing, if you need it. If you don't have enough cash to pay for the entire sticker price of the car, you're going to have to finance. Financing means that you make an initial down payment, and pay for the rest of the car with monthly payments, which are influenced by an interest rate the lender is willing to give you. In general, the higher your credit score, the less you'll pay in interest rates. The higher your monthly payments, the less you'll pay for the car over the life of the loan. Sometimes, the car dealer will offer you very attractive financing options, such as 0% financing deals, which means you pay 0% interest on the money the dealer gives you. These offers, however, are usually only extended to the buyers with the best credit. The dealers lure you in the door with an attractive teaser rate, and then when you fall in love with a car, say that you're not eligible. For the most part, getting financing from a dealer isn't going to get you the best deal. Getting financing from you local lender or credit union will usually give you a more attractive rate. Unless you have perfect or near-perfect credit, if a dealer asks you how you intend to pay, tell them you're paying cash. (You don't actually have to pay cash, but you can use the money from outside financing to bankroll your car purchase.) Set your sights on three models that you'd be happy driving off the lot. If you've got your dream car, that's fine too, but it doesn't give you as much flexibility if you're bargain-hunting. Go to the manufacturer websites and configure your vehicle(s) with the options you want. Get the invoice prices and MSRPs for each of these cars, and print them out (along with the details of the configuration you want). Finally, look to see if there are any manufacturer incentives available for the car you want, such as $1500 cash back or a $500 rebate for recent college grads and/or those in the military. Test drive your cars. Take them for a drive. So far, your search has been pretty theoretical and very methodical. It's time to have fun and experience what it's actually like to test drive the models you've been fantasizing about. Here are some tips for making sure you get the best of the test drive and not let the test drive get the better of you: Take note of how everything feels to you when you test drive, especially your gut reactions. Small problems during the test drive can be magnified later if you do buy the car, so it's best to listen to your instincts. Try not to show any outward emotion when test driving. Your adrenaline may be pumping, and you're probably excited, but experienced salespeople will pick up on this and exploit it. Call up several local dealers and start to get quotes. When you call the dealership, ask to speak to the internet sales manager or the fleet sales manager. Don't speak with the "traditional" car sales worker, as they typically won't discount as much as an internet sales or fleet sales manager. Here's what you say: Say: "I'm looking for a [year/make/model] with [state your options]. Do you have any of these in stock and if so, how much are you selling it for?" Tell them you've already test-driven the car. Emphasize that you need a quote over the phone. Start your bidding at the invoice price minus rebates, plus 1%. You can do this by multiplying the invoice number by 1.01. For example, if a car has an invoice cost of $15,000, and a cash back rebate of $2,000, then $15,000 - $2,000 = $13000 x 1.01 = $13,130. If possible, get the quote in writing (fax or e-mail), along with any options, taxes, and DMV fees, so that you can show other dealers. Confirm the price before visiting the dealership. Call other internet managers and ask them to beat their competitors' prices. After calling five to seven dealerships and getting prices, you're probably around $200 from the lowest price you can get. Call back the dealerships you spoke with and ask them if they want to beat their competitor's price. Resist any invitation to go to the dealer. Do this with as many dealerships you feel comfortable haggling with, or until the price drops below the fair purchase price or close to the invoice price. When you've finalized a deal over the phone, ask the internet sales manager to print out and fax over a worksheet detailing the final price, along with any options, taxes, and fees. If you don't get a worksheet from an internet manager, it's safe to assume they're not ready to sell you the car for the agreed-upon price. Drive to the dealership you negotiated the lowest price with and show them the worksheet. In most cases, because the brunt of the legwork is done and any feints now will be easily detectable, the dealer will sell you the car right then and there. If they don't sell you the car at the rate they promised, simply walk away. It's a powerful statement that says "I'm not here to play around." Most salespeople would rather close a sale than let you walk out the door. Never sign a contract without double-checking. If you don't understand a part of the contract you're signing, don't sign it. Ask the dealer to explain. If they consciously mislead you about a part of the contract, they could be subject to major fines and even jail time. Take your time to go through any contract or worksheet the dealer sends you and double-check that it doesn't contain any funny stuff. Unscrupulous dealers will sometimes increase an agreed-upon interest or add a warranty to your car without telling you. This is illegal, and it's called "packing payments." It's easy for the dealer to change your monthly payment from $347 to $357 because it's difficult to spot and it's "only" $10. But that $10, over the life of a 48-month loan, becomes almost $500 for the dealer. Don't get scammed by packed payments. Don't buy unnecessary extras. Like soda at a fast-food chain, extras are where the car dealerships make a lot of extra profit. Ask yourself what is truly necessary and what is merely satisfactory. At the end of the day, do you really need rustproofing or LED lights on your brand new car, or are you just too tired to put up a fight? Don't get cajoled by four-square worksheets. If you see your salesperson brandishing a four-square worksheet, tell him you'll walk away unless he puts it away. Four-square worksheets are pieces of paper that salespeople whip out in desperate attempts to fool the buyer. Essentially, here's how they work: The sheet in divided up into four quadrants: Trade-in value; purchase price; down payment; and monthly payment. The salesperson keys in on what you're most concerned about (maybe it's lowering your monthly payment), and reduces the payment in one square while increasing the payment in another. The worksheet looks logical, but it's more like a three-card monte trick. The dealer uses this piece of paper principally to confuse you. Don't focus solely on the monthly payment. Shrewd salespeople will come up to you and ask you how much you want to pay a month for a car. Agreeing to a monthly payment before you've agreed on a final price of the car is a certain recipe for paying way more than you need to. Think about it. If a salesperson gets you locked into a monthly payment first, he can massage the final price of the vehicle depending on how many months he uses. That's not good. Always agree on a final price before talking monthly payments. Don't let a car salesperson make you feel bad. People who sell cars are a different breed of salespeople. They can be very adept at manipulating emotion in order to close a sale. It's a good idea to try not to let emotion get in the way of making a huge financial purchase, especially when that emotion is being staged by a salesperson. For example, don't let them harass with something like: "You don't haggle with the cashier at the supermarket for a gallon of milk do you?" They are simply trying to guilt you into doing things their way. Respond by saying that in the grocery store, you don't have to worry about paying more for milk than the person before you did. Tell them that no-one has ever financed a gallon of milk.

Do your homework. Talk to people. Figure out your priorities. Narrow down your search by drawing up a budget. Determine the invoice price. Find out other important price points. Get an insurance quote on the models that you're looking at. Decide how you'll get financing, if you need it. Set your sights on three models that you'd be happy driving off the lot. Test drive your cars. Call up several local dealers and start to get quotes. Call other internet managers and ask them to beat their competitors' prices. Drive to the dealership you negotiated the lowest price with and show them the worksheet. Never sign a contract without double-checking. Don't buy unnecessary extras. Don't get cajoled by four-square worksheets. Don't focus solely on the monthly payment. Don't let a car salesperson make you feel bad.

https://www.wikihow.com/Create-an-Investment-Plan

How to Create an Investment Plan

Creating a solid investment plan will help your assets mature at a rate that suits your personal needs. If you're young and prepared to take more risk, invest in more aggressive assets like stocks in growth-oriented and small-cap companies. For a safer option, allocate more of your portfolio to less aggressive investments, like fixed-income, and large-cap value companies. If you only want the money for retirement, consider investing in an IRA or 401(k). It's always a good idea to diversify your portfolio to minimize your risk. For example, split your investment money between stocks, bonds, and savings accounts. You should also keep an emergency savings account with 3 to 6 months of living expenses in case of a big financial hit like losing your job.

Select an age-appropriate investment option. Your age will have a significant impact on your investment strategy. Generally speaking, the younger you are, the more risk you can take. That's because you have more time to recover from a market downturn or loss of value in a particular investment. So, if you're in your 20's, you can allocate more of your portfolio to more aggressive investments (like growth-oriented and small-cap companies for example). If you're nearing retirement, allocate more of your portfolio to less aggressive investments, like fixed-income, and large-cap value companies. Understand your current financial situation. Be aware of how much disposable income you have available to invest. Take a look at your budget and determine how much money is left over for investments following your monthly expenses and after you have set aside an emergency fund equivalent to three to 6 months' worth of expenses. Develop your risk profile. Your risk profile determines how much risk you're willing to take. Even if you're young, you might not want to take a lot of risks. You'll select your investments based on your risk profile. Generally speaking, stocks are more volatile than bonds, and bank accounts (checking and savings accounts) are not volatile. Remember, there are always risk trade-off's to be made. Often, when you take less risk, you make less. Investors are richly rewarded for taking significant risks, but they can also face steep losses. Set goals for your investments. What do you want to do with the money you make from your investments? Do you want to retire early? Do you want to buy a nice house? Do you want a boat? As a rule of thumb, you're going to want a diversified portfolio no matter what your goal is (buying a house, saving for a child's college education, etc.). The idea is to let the investment grow over a long period of time so that you have enough to pay for the goal. If your goal is particularly aggressive, you should put more money in the investment periodically rather than opting for a more risky investment. That way, you're more likely to achieve your goal rather than lose the money that you've invested. Establish a timeline for your goals. How soon do you want to reach your financial goals? That will determine the type of investments you make. If you're interested in getting a great return on your investment quickly, and you are prepared to take the risk that you could also see a great loss just as quickly, then you'll select more aggressive investments that have the potential for significant return. These include undervalued stocks, penny stocks, and land that might quickly appreciate in value. If you're interested in building wealth slowly, you'll select investments that generate a slower return on investment over time. Determine the level of liquidity you want. A "liquid" asset is defined as an asset that can be easily converted to cash. That way, you'll have quick access to the money if you need it in an emergency. Stocks and mutual funds are very liquid and can be converted into cash, usually in a matter of days. Real estate is not very liquid. It usually takes weeks or months to convert a property to cash. Decide on how you want to diversify. You don't want to put all your eggs in one basket. For example: Every month, you might want to put 30% of your investment money into stocks, another 30% into bonds, and the remaining 40% into a savings account. Adjust those percentages and investment options so that they're in line with your financial goals. Ensure that your plan is in line with your risk profile. If you put 90% of your disposable income into stocks every month, then you're going to lose a lot of money if the stock market crashes. That might be a risk that you're willing to take, but be sure that's the case. Consult a financial adviser. If you're uncertain about how to set up a plan in line with your goals and your risk profile, talk to a qualified financial adviser and get some feedback. Investigate your options. There are many different accounts you might use for an investment plan. Familiarize yourself with some of the basics and figure out what works for you. Set up a short-term emergency savings account with three to six months worth of living expenses. It's important to have this established to protect yourself if something unexpected happens (job loss, injury or illness, etc.). This money should easy to access in a hurry. Consider your options for long-term savings. If you are thinking about saving up for retirement, you may want to set up an IRA or 401(k). Your employer may offer a 401(k) plan in which they will match your contribution. If you want to start an education fund, think about 529 plans and Education Savings Accounts (ESAs). Earnings from these accounts are free from federal income tax as long as they're used to pay for qualified education expenses. Monitor your investments from time to time. Check to see if they're performing according to your goals. If not, reevaluate your investments and determine where changes need to be made. Determine if you need to change your risk profile. Generally speaking, as you get older, you'll want to take less risk. Be sure to adjust your investments accordingly. If you have money in risky investments, it's a good idea to sell them and move the money to more stable investments when you get older. If your finances tolerate the volatility of your portfolio very well, you might want to take on even more risk so that you can reach your goals sooner. Evaluate whether or not you're contributing enough to reach your financial goals. It may be the case that you're not putting enough money from every paycheck into your investments to make your goals. On a more positive note, you might find that you're way ahead of reaching your goals and that you're putting too much money into your investments on a regular basis. In either case, adjust your contributions accordingly.

Select an age-appropriate investment option. Understand your current financial situation. Develop your risk profile. Set goals for your investments. Establish a timeline for your goals. Determine the level of liquidity you want. Decide on how you want to diversify. Ensure that your plan is in line with your risk profile. Consult a financial adviser. Investigate your options. Monitor your investments from time to time. Determine if you need to change your risk profile. Evaluate whether or not you're contributing enough to reach your financial goals.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Bruschetta

How to Make Bruschetta

To make bruschetta, you will need 1 baguette and 1/4 cup of olive oil. While you preheat the oven to 450°F, slice the baguette into ½ inch thick slices, and then brush olive oil on one side of each slice. As you prepare to bake the bread, place the slices oily-side-down on a baking sheet, and put in the oven for 5 minutes, or until golden brown. Finally, place the bruschetta, oily-side-up, on a platter. You can then either make the traditional tomato and basil topping, or you can try anything from a salmon and cream cheese topper to a strawberries and sugar topping.

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Slice a baguette into ½ inch (1.27 centimeters) thick slices. To get the most surface area, try to slice the bread diagonally, instead of straight down. Use a pastry brush to coat one side of each slice with olive oil. You do not need to coat both sides with olive oil. The oil will help create a "barrier" between the topping the bread, and prevent it from getting too soggy. Place the slices olive oil-side-down on a baking sheet. Depending on how big your baking sheet is, and how many slices you have, you may need to make several batches. Bake the slices on the top rack in your oven for 5 to 6 minutes. The rack should be about 4 to 5 inches (10.16 to 12.7 centimeters) from the heat source. When the edges turn golden brown, take them out. You can also toast them under a broiler for 3 minutes, turning once. For richer bruschetta, melt some butter in a large skillet. Heat the bread slices in the skillet on both sides until they are golden brown. Arrange the bruschetta oily-side-up on a platter. After this point, you can start preparing the traditional tomato-basil topping , or you can use a different, more unique one. Brown the garlic in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Begin by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a small skillet, then add 5 cloves of minced garlic. Stir, and fry the two together for 1 minute. Remove the garlic when it becomes golden, but don't like it become too brown. Transfer the oil and garlic to a mixing bowl and let it cool. Make sure that the bowl is large enough to fit the rest of your ingredients. You will eventually be mixing everything in this bowl. Cut 2 pints of red grape tomatoes into halves. For a more unique and colorful bruschetta topping, use 1 pint of red grade tomatoes, and 1 pint of yellow grape tomatoes. Cut some basil into thin slices. Take a few basic leaves and stack them. Next, roll them up like a burrito and cinnamon bun. Use a sharp knife to cut the basil into thin, narrow slices. Repeat this step until you have used up all your basil leaves. Add the halved tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, basil, salt, and pepper to the mixing bowl. For a more flavorful bruschetta, add 2 tablespoons of grated parmesan cheese. Wait 1 to 2 hours. This will give the tomatoes enough time to absorb all the flavors. Spread the tomato mixture over the bruschetta just before serving. Make sure that you are spreading it on the oily side; the oil will help keep the bread from getting too soggy. You can also serve the mixture in a bowl with a spoon. This way, your guests can pick up how much they want. Prepare some toasted slices of baguette, then add your desired topping. This section will give you several different recipes for bruschetta toppings. They range from sweet to sweet n' savory, to savory. Try a simple seasoning of garlic, olive oil, and salt. Cut a clove of garlic in half, and rub it over the oily side of the toasted bread slices. Finish off with a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of salt and/or pepper. Use a gorgonzola-honey topping if you like the savory-sweet. Spread some gorgonzola cheese over the oily side of each bread slice. Bake, broil, or grill the bread, cheesy-side-up for a few more minutes until the cheese has melted. Transfer the bruschetta slices to a platter, and drizzle each slice with honey. Serve immediately. You will need about 8 ounces (225 grams) of gorgonzola cheese and 3 tablespoons of honey. For an added crunch, add some chopped walnuts or pecans on top. Use ricotta cheese and marmalade for another savory-sweet combination. Spread 2 tablespoons of ricotta cheese over the top of each bread slice. Add 1 tablespoon of marmalade to each slice and serve. Use a classic combination of salmon and cream cheese. Spread some cream cheese over the bread slices, then drape a slice of salmon over each one. Finish off with a sprinkle of dill. Try some prosciutto, peaches, and goat cheese for a more unique flavor. Spread some goat cheese onto the toasted bread slices. Place a slice of prosciutto over the cheese. Add two, thin peach slices. Finish off with a drizzle of olive oil and a pinch of sea salt. Serve immediately. If you want something zesty, give ricotta cheese and lemon a try. In a small bowl, combine 8 ounces (225 grams) of ricotta cheese and the zest of 1 lemon. Add salt and pepper to taste and spread over the toasted bread slices. Finish off with a drizzle of honey and a sprinkle of thyme. Serve while it is still warm. If you have a sweet tooth, try strawberries and sugar. Slice enough strawberries to cover the tops of the toasted bread slices. Generously sprinkle the strawberries with sugar. Turn on the broiler, and heat the bruschetta for about 2 minutes, or until the sugar caramelizes.

Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C). Slice a baguette into ½ inch (1.27 centimeters) thick slices. Use a pastry brush to coat one side of each slice with olive oil. Place the slices olive oil-side-down on a baking sheet. Bake the slices on the top rack in your oven for 5 to 6 minutes. Arrange the bruschetta oily-side-up on a platter. Brown the garlic in a small skillet over medium-high heat. Transfer the oil and garlic to a mixing bowl and let it cool. Cut 2 pints of red grape tomatoes into halves. Cut some basil into thin slices. Add the halved tomatoes, balsamic vinegar, basil, salt, and pepper to the mixing bowl. Wait 1 to 2 hours. Spread the tomato mixture over the bruschetta just before serving. Prepare some toasted slices of baguette, then add your desired topping. Try a simple seasoning of garlic, olive oil, and salt. Use a gorgonzola-honey topping if you like the savory-sweet. Use ricotta cheese and marmalade for another savory-sweet combination. Use a classic combination of salmon and cream cheese. Try some prosciutto, peaches, and goat cheese for a more unique flavor. If you want something zesty, give ricotta cheese and lemon a try. If you have a sweet tooth, try strawberries and sugar.

https://www.wikihow.com/Ship-Live-Animals

How to Ship Live Animals

To ship live animals through the mail, keep in mind that mammals generally cannot be shipped. However, you can usually ship fish, beneficial insects, and certain reptiles. If you have any questions about the animal you're shipping, contact your mail carrier to ensure that the animal is allowed under shipping regulations. When you're ready to ship your animal, make sure that the packaging is sturdy, well-ventilated, and water-resistant.

Take your pet on the plane with you if possible. If you want to ship a small pet on an airplane, the easiest way is to accompany the pet on the same flight. If your pet is small enough, you may be able to take it in the cabin with you as one of your carry-on pieces for an additional fee. If your pet is larger, you may be required to travel on the same aircraft, but with your pet in the cargo holding area. All airlines have breed and weight restrictions that apply to both cabin- and cargo-shipped pets. Make sure you check these requirements thoroughly before you ship your pet. Choose an approved pet carrier. Make sure your shipping/travel container meets all airline requirements (which can vary from company to company). In general, the animal must be able to stand up and turn around in the crate. It must also be hard-sided and contain adequate breathing holes. In general, most airlines require that an in-cabin pet carrier be no larger than 18 in (46 cm) long by 12 in (30 cm) wide by 10 in (25 cm) high. Contact the airline for specific requirements. To ship your small pet by plane, you'll need to make arrangements well in advance and ask the airline about any specific documents they require for your pet. Each airline will have different documents, fee ranges, and carrier size requirements. Inquire about all of the necessary health requirements (vaccinations, microchip, physical examination, quarantine) required by both the airline and the importing country. These regulations will vary from country to country. Make international arrangements through a professional pet shipper. Many airlines require international bookings to be made by a professional pet shipping service, unless you will be traveling on the same airplane as the animal. You sign up with the service and they handle all of the packaging, preparation, and handling during transit for you. Delta, for example, requires all animals being shipped internationally to be booked through a professional pet shipper. Check that your pet shipper is a member of the International Pet and Animal Transportation Association (IPATA). Make your travel plans several months in advance. Airlines are only allotted so many spaces for animals traveling aboard the aircraft. Even if you book a plane ticket for yourself, that does not guarantee they can accommodate your animal. Call an airline booking agent as soon as you book your ticket to request a spot reserved for your animal. You can even book your ticket over the phone with an airline representative to ensure that you and your pet can both travel on the same flight. Ensure that your animals are allowed under shipping regulations. Most shipping companies, including the post office, have rules and regulations which limit the transport of certain types of living things through the mail system. Check to make sure your live animals aren't on the prohibited list before you try to ship them. For UPS, accepted live animals include all amphibians, all crustaceans, all fish, all mollusks, all worms, beneficial insects (like bees, butterflies, and crickets), and certain reptiles (like chameleons, geckos, iguanas, and flying dragons). For UPS, prohibited live animals include any poisonous/threatening animals, any threatened or endangered species, all arachnids, all birds, all crocodiles, all mammals, all snakes, and all obnoxious insects (like flies, mosquitoes, termites, locusts, and cockroaches). Send live animals through the domestic mail system. It is possible to ship some kinds of live animals domestically. Once you check to make sure that the type of animal you want to send is allowed via the postal service you choose, then you must follow all shipping regulations related to packaging, labeling, and ensuring the safety of your live animals during shipment. In general, mammals can never be shipped through the mail system. The most common animals approved for domestic shipment are live bees, birds and poultry, and small (non-venomous) cold-blooded animals. Prepare the packaging. If you are packaging your live animals yourself (and not through a professional shipper), you'll need to make sure that the packaging is sturdy, durable, and safe for your animals during transport. You should have an outer primary container that is more durable, with a smaller interior container housing the animals. The outer package should contain padding to protect the inner package from sliding around. Use water-resistant packaging materials. This is especially important if your live animals require moisture during transport. Construct your primary container out of water-resistant materials to protect the live animals inside. Acceptable supplies include wax coated or plastic corrugated materials. Ensure the packaging is breathable for the animals during shipment. You may need to cut small holes into both the inner and outer packaging. Remember to make sure the holes aren't big enough to compromise the packaging or to allow the animals to escape. For transporting live fish, you must double bag the fish in strong plastic bags that are about 1/3 filled with water and 2/3 filled with oxygen. Complete all necessary health checks. In order to ship live animals, they will need to be inspected by a licensed individual and approved for travel. This may require veterinary visits, vaccinations, health examinations, and laboratory testing. Make sure you know what the requirements are before you ship your live animals. You will be able to find health check requirements from the carrier through which you will ship your live animals. For example, if you are sending your animals through the mail system, your specific carrier will have access to the various health regulation requirements for shipping live animals via the postal service. If you are shipping animals on an airplane, the air carrier you choose will be able to provide you with this information. This is especially important for international shipping. Get your packaging tested. Before shipment, your packaging should be submitted to an International Safe Transit association (ISTA) certified package testing laboratory for testing. ISTA Procedure 3A requires package checks before being used to transport live animals. You can find qualified testing facilities by searching the ISTA website at https://www.ista.org/. If you have hired a professional pet shipper for international travel, they will handle this requirement for you. Provide necessary considerations for your animals during transport. If your live animals require food, water, or specific temperatures for a safe transport, you need to add considerations that accommodate these needs. Make sure there is adequate food and water for your animals to survive the journey. You may also want to consider sedating a larger animal (like a cat or a dog) during a long transit. Consult with your veterinarian about possible sedatives and dosages that will work for your animal. Prepare the necessary documents. If you choose to send your live animals internationally via the postal system, most services require that you get approval ahead of time through an International Special Commodities contract. This document can be provided by your chosen shipping service. You will need to attain this document before securing a professional pet shipper. For U.S. residents, you may also need to get your documentation approved by the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA) Import/Export Office. You can do this by making an appointment with your local USDA office.

Take your pet on the plane with you if possible. Choose an approved pet carrier. Contact the airline for specific requirements. Make international arrangements through a professional pet shipper. Make your travel plans several months in advance. Ensure that your animals are allowed under shipping regulations. Send live animals through the domestic mail system. Prepare the packaging. Use water-resistant packaging materials. Ensure the packaging is breathable for the animals during shipment. Complete all necessary health checks. Get your packaging tested. Provide necessary considerations for your animals during transport. Prepare the necessary documents.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Breakfast-Smoothie

How to Make a Breakfast Smoothie

To make a breakfast smoothie, start by pulsing 1/4 cup of rolled oats in a blender until they're finely ground. Then, add 1 cup of a liquid of your choice, like milk or juice. Next, add 1/4 cup of yogurt and 1 cup of fruit, like strawberries or bananas, and blend everything together until it's smooth. For even more flavor, try adding honey, vanilla extract, ground cinnamon, or cocoa powder.

Pulse ¼ cup (25 grams) of rolled oats into blender until finely ground. You are looking for something that looks like flour. For extra nutrients, add 1½ teaspoons (7.5 grams) of dried chia seeds. If you don't like chia seeds, consider a protein powder instead. You can use all sorts of varieties of protein powders, from hemp-based to brown rice. Stir in 1 cup (240 milliliters) of your desired liquid. Use a long-handled spoon or spatula to mix in some milk, juice, or a combination of the two. You can use any type of milk, including non-dairy milk, such as almond or soy. Great juice options include orange juice. Be sure to scrape the bottom of your blender. This will help "lift" any oats or chia seeds that may have settled, and help your smoothie blend better. Add ¼ cup (65 grams) of yogurt. You can use plain yogurt, Greek, or even flavored yogurt. Plain, unflavored yogurt will give you the greatest control over the final flavor of the smoothie, however. Add 1 cup (100 to 200 grams) of your favorite fruit. You can use fresh fruit or frozen fruit; if the fruit is frozen, however, you might want to thaw it first. Small fruits, such as berries, can go right into the blender and don't need to be cut. Larger fruits, such as strawberries or bananas, should be sliced. Fruits that work well in smoothies include: bananas, berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries, and strawberries), peaches, and mangos. Remember to cut off any stems, and to cut out any seeds or pits. Consider adding some flavoring extras. At this point, your smoothie is almost ready. You can enhance it further, however, by adding in some optional ingredients, such as cooking spices or sweeteners. Listed below are some ideas to get you started: Spices and flavors, such as cocoa powder, ground cinnamon, or vanilla extract. Add-ins, such as shredded coconut, chopped nuts, jams, or preserves. Sweeteners, such as chocolate syrup, honey, maple syrup, agave nectar Blend until smooth. From time to time, you may want to open up the blender, and use a spatula to push the smoothie down the walls of the blender. This will help the ingredients mix in more evenly. Taste, and make any adjustments, if necessary. If the smoothie is too thick, add some more of your liquid ingredient; if it is too thin, add some more ice or yogurt. If the smoothie is too sweet, you can add some more yogurt or oatmeal; if it is not sweet enough, simply add more of your sweetener. Be sure to blend your smoothie one more time if you do add anything to it. Pour the smoothie into 1 or 2 tall glasses. You can serve the smoothie as is, or let them chill for 4 to 8 hours. This will give the oats enough time to soak up the liquids and expand, resulting in a thicker, creamier smoothie. Finished. Make a very-berry smoothie with berries and oatmeal. In a blender, combine ½ cup (50 grams) of rolled oats, 1 cup (240 milliliters) of milk, and ½ cup (50 grams) of frozen berries. Add 3 tablespoons (45 grams) of honey, 1/3 cup (85 grams) of yogurt, and ¼ cup (25 grams) of ice. Blend until smooth, and pour into 1 to 2 glasses. Serve immediately. Try a honey oatmeal smoothie with yogurt if you like things sweet. In a blender, combine 1/3 cup (35 grams) of rolled oats, ½ cup (120 milliliters) of milk, ¼ cup (65 grams) of plain yogurt, 3 to 4 ice cubes, and 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of honey. Add 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of your favorite nut butter, such as peanut or almond, and blend until smooth. Pour into a tall glass, and enjoy. This recipe can also be made using almond milk instead. For an extra thick smoothie, make it the night before, and leave it in the fridge. Add some cold-brewed coffee for an extra dose of caffeine. In a blender, combine ½ to 1½ cups (50 to 150 grams) of ice, ¾ cups (180 milliliters) of cold coffee, and ½ cup (125 grams) of vanilla yogurt. Blend until smooth, then pour into a tall glass. Serve immediately. For extra sweetness, add 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of honey or agrave nectar. For extra flavor, add ¼ cup (cc grams) of semi-sweet chocolate chips and 4 tablespoons (60 milliliters) of chocolate syrup. Garnish with whipped cream and more chocolate sauce. If you don't have cold-brewed coffee, you can simply use chilled coffee instead. For extra goodness, add ½ banana, sliced. Get off to a right start with an orange smoothie. In a blender, combine 1 cup (240 milliliters) of orange juice, ½ cup (125 grams) of vanilla yogurt, and 1 to 2 cups (100 to 200 grams) of ice. For extra flavor, add 1 sliced banana. For extra sweetness, add 1 to 3 teaspoons (5 to 15 grams) of honey. Blend until smooth, pour into a tall glass, and enjoy. If you don't have orange juice, use 1 orange, peeled and seeded. Try a chocolate-banana smoothie for a quick dose of protein. In a blender, combine 1 cup (240 milliliters) of milk, ¾ cup (75 grams) of ice, and ¼ cup (65 grams) of creamy peanut butter. Add 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of cocoa powder and ½ teaspoon (2.5 milliliters) of vanilla extract. Blend until smooth, pour into 2 glasses, and serve.

Pulse ¼ cup (25 grams) of rolled oats into blender until finely ground. Stir in 1 cup (240 milliliters) of your desired liquid. Add ¼ cup (65 grams) of yogurt. Add 1 cup (100 to 200 grams) of your favorite fruit. Consider adding some flavoring extras. Blend until smooth. Taste, and make any adjustments, if necessary. Pour the smoothie into 1 or 2 tall glasses. Finished. Make a very-berry smoothie with berries and oatmeal. Try a honey oatmeal smoothie with yogurt if you like things sweet. Add some cold-brewed coffee for an extra dose of caffeine. Get off to a right start with an orange smoothie. Try a chocolate-banana smoothie for a quick dose of protein.

https://www.wikihow.com/Convert-a-Percentage-into-a-4.0-Grade-Point-Average

How to Convert a Percentage into a 4.0 Grade Point Average

To convert a percentage into a 4.0 grade point average, start by dividing the percentage by 20. Then, just subtract 1 from that number to get the grade point average. For example, if your grade is 89 percent, you would start by dividing 89 by 20, which would give you 4.45. Then, you would subtract 1 from 4.45 and get 3.45, which would be your grade point average.

Know the formula for converting a percentage into a 4.0 GPA. Let's use x to represent the percentage. The formula to use when converting a percentage into a GPA (with a scale of 4.0) is (x/20) - 1 = GPA. Plug the percentage into the formula and solve. Let's say you have an 89% in Geology. Just plug it into the formula to get the following: 89/20 - 1 = 4.45 - 1 = 3.45. The GPA equivalent of 89% is 3.45. Use the same formula if the percentage is higher than 100%. The process will be the same even if your percentage is higher than 100%. Let's say you got a whopping 108% in Algebra. Here's what happens when you plug it in: 108/20 - 1 = 5.4 - 1 = 4.4 The GPA equivalent of 108% is 4.4. Consider using a scale instead. This may be useful depending on what you are calculating your GPA for. If you are calculating one grade at a time to see how they will add up for your high school GPA, then you may not have to follow this exact formula because all grades will fall within a range anyway. For example, if your grade falls within the range of 83-86, then depending on your high school, then you will have a B, or a 3.0, whether it falls on the higher or lower part of the range or not. Check out your school's GPA system to figure out how to do this; some high schools have a slightly different range for what makes an A- vs. an A, a B vs. a B+, and so on. Assign a numerical score to your each of your grades. Each grade that you get at the end of a class has a number equivalent on the 4.0 scale. Find a number equivalent for each grade that you get. Each school's numeral scores may vary slightly, so look into the GPA system at your school. Here is what the typical scoring system looks like: A = 4 A- = 3.7 B+ = 3.3 B = 3 B- = 2.7 C+ = 2.3 C = 2.0 C- = 1.7 D+ = 1.3 D = 1 D- =.7 F = 0 Add up all of your numerical scores. Add up the numerical scores assigned to each of your grades. For the sake of example, say you took English (C+), History (B), Math (B+), Chemistry (C+), Physical Education (A-), and Art (A-). That would mean you'd have: 2.3 + 3 + 3.3 + 2.3 + 3.7 + 3.7 = 18.3. Divide your number by the number of classes you took. This is another way of saying that you will have to find the average numerical score. This will give you your final GPA score on a 4.0 scale. In our example, we added up our numbers to get 18.3. Since we took six classes, we have to divide 18.3 by six. 18.3 ÷ 6 = 3.05 (or 3.1). Understand weighted GPA. Weighted GPA is the idea that some harder classes, like honors or AP, should be weighted to reflect an extra degree of difficulty. So, instead of the traditional 4.0 grade scale, a weighted scale can go as high as 5.0, reflecting a harder course load. The idea is that getting a "C" in AP Algebra is just as hard as getting a "B" in regular Algebra. Assign a numerical score to each of your grades. This time, use the same table as above, except add 1 point to each grade that you got in an honors or AP class. Here is what the scaling system usually looks like: A = 5 A- = 4.7 B+ = 4.3 B = 4 B- = 3.7 C+ = 3.3 C = 3.0 C- = 2.7 D+ = 2.3 D = 2 D- = 1.7 F = 1 Add up all your numerical scores. Add up the numerical scores assigned to each of your grades. For the sake of example, say you took AP English (C), Honors History (B), Math (B), AP Chemistry (C+), Music Theory (B-), and Honors Art (A-). That would mean you'd have: 3 + 4 + 3 + 3.3 + 2.7 + 4.7 = 20.7. Divide your number by the number of classes you took. Again, you're just finding the average score. This will give you your final GPA score on a 5.0 scale. Note that you can only receive a 5.0 GPA if all of your classes are honors or AP and you receive an "A" in each class. Many students are required to take classes without extra degrees of difficulty, such as gym. In our example, we added up our numbers to get 20.7. Since we took six classes, we have to divide 20.7 by six. 20.7 ÷ 6 = 3.45 (or 3.5). Multiply the course Credit Hours by the letter grade equivalent (see below) to get the Quality Points. For example: (3 Credit Hours * 4.5 (A+)) Total the credit hours in your last 2 years of study or in the last 60 Credit Hours (see above). Divide the total Quality Points by the total Credit Hours. Product: Credit Hours * letter grades)) / (Total Credit Hours); or (Quality Points) / (Total Credit Hours) Finished. This is your GPA. Calculated GPA /4.0 = X / 4.5

Know the formula for converting a percentage into a 4.0 GPA. Plug the percentage into the formula and solve. Use the same formula if the percentage is higher than 100%. Consider using a scale instead. Assign a numerical score to your each of your grades. Add up all of your numerical scores. Divide your number by the number of classes you took. Understand weighted GPA. Assign a numerical score to each of your grades. Add up all your numerical scores. Divide your number by the number of classes you took. Multiply the course Credit Hours by the letter grade equivalent (see below) to get the Quality Points. Total the credit hours in your last 2 years of study or in the last 60 Credit Hours (see above). Divide the total Quality Points by the total Credit Hours. Finished.

https://www.wikihow-fun.com/Be-a-Chick-Magnet

How to Be a Chick Magnet

If you want to be a chick magnet, start by choosing comfortable, well-fitting clothes to help you appear both relaxed and confident. Chick magnets use positive body language to show women they are confident and approachable, so be sure to smile often and don't walk or stand slumped over. To avoid turning girls off, maintain good personal hygiene by taking daily showers, keeping your facial hair neat and groomed, and brushing your teeth twice a day.

Have a sense of humor, but don’t be a clown. Having a good sense of humor is also a good way to attract women and be a chick magnet. However, you don't want to be a clown. Instead, find the right mix of humor and seriousness that will let women know you're fun and easy to be around, but are also strong and serious. Tell a joke every once in a while. Avoid being funny all the time. Don't make it your goal to make people laugh. Use humor to fill potentially awkward silences or to break the ice with a girl. Make sure your humor is always appropriate for the setting. For instance, don't joke about death at a funeral or a wedding. Be approachable. Work on being approachable and easy to talk to. Often people who are shy turn girls off, for they appear boring and uninteresting. Instead, be approachable so people can sense that you're engaged and open to new relationships. Don't be afraid to chit chat. Be friendly and talk to people. Look well-adjusted and happy. In order for girls to approach you, they need to sense that you're a well-adjusted and happy person. As a result, try to smile and respond to people in a positive way. Smile and look at girls in an inviting way. Make sure you make eye contact with girls in a positive way. However, don't be creepy and don't stalk them with your eyes. Just let them know that you're friendly and interested. Let others know you like to have a good time. Show others that you are interested in having fun. If girls know that you're into having a good time, they'll likely gravitate to you. Show respect. To be a chick magnet, you need to constantly show respect to the women and girls around you. Respect speaks volumes. Women who know you respect them will want to be around you. Show respect to the girls and women around you. Don't speak for them, assume you know what they want, or bully or push them into doing something they don't want to do. As for all people you come in contact with, you should respect their opinions, listen to them, and engage them as equals. Show respect to everyone around you. Be polite to women and to everyone you come into contact with, not just women you want to date. Women and girls can tell when you're faking it to impress them, and most of them will not be attracted to a guy who is disrespectful of anyone. Act mature. For many women, maturity is an extremely attractive quality. By acting mature, you'll show the girls around you that you stand out in front of the rest of the guys they know. Don't goof off with your friends in front of girls. Don't act out at school to get attention, if you go to school. If a girl shoots you down, politely thank her for her time and move on. Nothing is less appealing to other girls than a person who can't take rejection. Letting a rejection roll of your back with ease will show everyone around you how confident you really are. Do your work and do it diligently. Success is an important part of being mature. Women often gravitate toward successful people. Show everyone you are relaxed. When people perceive you as someone who is relaxed and does not get excited over small things, they'll likely see you as someone worth being around. Because of this, you should act as cool and calm as you can. This will compliment your confident demeanor and help you attract women. When you're meeting a girl, don't show that you are anxious about the details like what or where you are going to meet up. While it's okay to be clear and direct about important details, don't show that you are anxious about them. Avoid acting over-excited about getting a date with a girl or anything similar. If you show you are over-excited, you may seem desperate. Don't let your emotions get the better of you. Always act calm and cool, even if you're excited about something. Avoid vulgarity. Avoid vulgarity at all times. When you're vulgar you demonstrate that you lack class and don't respect the people around you. Consider the following: Don't curse. Avoid saying inappropriate things. For instance, don't joke about sex or sexual relations. This could be a major turn off. Never make inappropriate gestures to your friends or to anyone else. Keep yourself from bragging or boasting. Even though you want to let all of the girls know how cool you are, bragging or boasting may undermine your entire game. Bragging or boasting might turn girls off. It might also signal to some people that you are actually insecure about yourself or your position. Let your coolness or ability speak for itself. If you're super awesome, people will talk about how you are super awesome. Invite girls to events you take part in, rather than bragging about them. For instance, if you're a star baseball player, invite them to your game. While it may be okay to talk a little about the cool things you're doing, you've done, or other achievements, never go into detail and just mention them briefly. Have confidence in yourself. Perhaps the most important part of being a chick magnet is exuding confidence. Confidence helps draw people to you. This goes for women, too. Tell yourself that you are a competent, capable, and attractive person. Trust in this and trust in yourself. Non-confident people tend to make other people question themselves. Think positively. Thinking positively will not only help you build confidence, but it will also help you create a positive mind frame that others can sense. Such a mindset will give you motivation and put you in the right place to gain the attention of girls. Thinking positively will translate into being positive to other people. Positive people are more fun to be around. Focus on the good in everything. If something bad happens to you at school or at work, like you receive a poor grade or you are passed over for promotion, try to find good in it. View it as a learning experience. Others will see this and may be impressed. Stay focused on your goal. Staying focused on your goal of being a chick magnet is very important. If you lose focus, you'll likely make a bunch of mistakes that will undermine your ultimate goal of attracting women. Make sure you: Don't lose your cool if you're angry or frustrated. Don't treat anyone with disrespect, especially girls or women. Your reputation will affect how other girls view you. Get in the habit of having a chick magnet-related routine. Make sure you do the same stuff every day to prepare yourself for the world and for meeting women. Allocate enough time for grooming, for exercising, and for everything else you need to do. Have positive body language and good posture. An important element of being a chick magnet is positive body language and good posture. Positive body language and good posture will show women that you are confident, put together, and approachable. It may also put people at ease when they are around you. Smile when appropriate. Avoid crossing your arms. Never walk or stand slumped over. Your shoulders should be high and chest should be out a little bit. Get in shape. One great way to be a chick magnet is to make sure you are in shape, attractive, and appealing to women. While you don't have to have six-pack abs or giant muscles, you should try to be relatively fit and healthy. Consider toning up. Toning up your body might be a little work, but it will pay off. Try some light weight training and a cardio activity like running or swimming. Don't go overboard on the weight lifting or muscle building. Many women are intimidated or turned off by a person that is completely ripped. Watch what you eat. Make sure you don't overeat. Overeating may cause you to pack on the pounds and ruin your chance of being a chick magnet. Wear what you're comfortable with, but look sharp. When dressing, you should be comfortable yet look sharp. This is important because comfort will make you appear confident and laid back, but looking sharp will let girls know that you are put together and conscious of your appearance. There's no need to put on a fancy outfit that doesn't feel like you at all. Instead, try to build a wardrobe of decent clothes that feel comfortable. Girls will swerve to avoid slobs, so make sure your comfort does not trump looking sharp. If you're comfortable in jeans and a t-shirt, this is fine. Just make sure that your clothes are clean and free from stains or unintentional rips or tears. Avoid wearing the same shirt you already wore a few days ago. While you may think no one notices, some girls do. Pick clothes that look good on you. While comfort and sharpness are important, you also need to wear clothes that look good on you. Put a good bit of thought into this before changing your wardrobe. Avoid clothes that are either too small on you or too big on you. Clothes that are too large are especially dangerous, as you might look slobby or larger than you actually are. Choose shirts that complement your figure and skin tone. If you're not really trim or built like an athlete, avoid clothes that are too tight. They may not be flattering. Try clothes that compliment your hair and eye color. If you've got green or blue eyes, wearing other green or blue might draw those colors out. This might help attract women. If you're wearing a shirt that is supposed to be tucked in, tuck it in. Leaving the shirt untucked will make you look sloppy, but tucking it in too much will give you a not-so-cool appearance. Make sure you pull your shirt out just a little bit so it hangs over your belt a little bit. Keep good physical hygiene. Keeping good physical hygiene is key in being a chick magnet. If you're unhygienic, this will probably turn girls off. As a result, make sure you always clean and groom yourself appropriately. Shower every day. Make sure to use soap and shampoo. It will leave you smelling and looking clean. Also, make sure to wash behind your ears. Brush your teeth twice a day (or after meals). Brushing your teeth regularly will help ensure you've got white teeth and good breath. It will also help prevent tooth decay and gum disease. Use deodorant. Shave and/or trim your facial hair. Treat acne or skin problems appropriately. Trim your nose hairs.

Have a sense of humor, but don’t be a clown. Be approachable. Show respect. Act mature. Show everyone you are relaxed. Avoid vulgarity. Keep yourself from bragging or boasting. Have confidence in yourself. Think positively. Stay focused on your goal. Have positive body language and good posture. Get in shape. Wear what you're comfortable with, but look sharp. Pick clothes that look good on you. Keep good physical hygiene.

https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Acid-Reflux-in-Dogs

How to Treat Acid Reflux in Dogs

Before you treat acid reflux in your dog, visit your vet for a diagnosis, especially if your dog has serious symptoms like vomiting regularly or whining when swallowing. Once your dog has been diagnosed, start it on a low-fat, low-protein diet, which will be easier on its stomach. You should also space out your dog's food into several smaller meals throughout the day, which will prevent it from over-eating and getting acid reflux. If these strategies don't help, you may need to ask your vet about prescription medication. It's likely your vet will either give you a gastroprotective to coat your dog's stomach, or omeprazole, a drug that prevents acid production.

Take your dog to the vet if they vomiting regularly or shows sign of discomfort. If your dog spits up its food, has a lack of appetite, or whines whenever it's swallowing, it may have acid reflux. Schedule an appointment with a veterinarian to get an official diagnosis. Feed your dog a low fat, low protein diet. Avoid high-fat, high-protein diets because these cause the stomach to produce acid. Instead offer carbohydrate such as rice, pasta, or boiled potatoes, with lean white meats such as chicken, turkey, cod, or coley fish. Examples of "bad" foods include fatty mince, sausages, bacon, cream, butter, and pate. Feed your dog four small meals a day. If you feed your dog two or three large meals a day, there is more of a chance that his stomach will become very full, which in turn can stretch the esophageal sphincter and allow acid to leak out of the stomach. Continue feeding your dog four small low-fat, low protein meals a day until he has been symptom-free for at least 7 days. After these 7 days have passed, you can consider putting him back on his regular diet. Place your dog’s food bowl on a stool or low table. Putting your dog's food up high will force your dog to eat with his head raised above his shoulders. This makes his esophagus into a downhill slope to his stomach, which will help to keep the food in his stomach, rather than being regurgitated back up. Feeding from a raised bowl may give your dog bloat, a serious life-threatening condition that causes the stomach to twist and fill with gas. Give your dog gastroprotectants. Gastroprotectants provide a degree of protection for the stomach (and esophagus). The most widely used gastroprotective is sucralfate, a prescription medication known as Antepsin or Carafate. Give your dog omeprazole. This is also known as GastroGard or Prilosec. It is a prescription medication. It is a proton pump inhibitor and prevents acid production both in the stimulated stomach (when there is food to digest) or resting state (an empty tummy). The dose is 0.5 mg per 1 kg of weight once daily by mouth. Omeprazole comes in a range of tablet strengths (10mg, 20mg, 40mg) and so a 30-kg dog is best served with one 15-mg tablet once a day. Omeprazole is a very safe medication, with few reported side effects. There is a theoretical risk that if used for several months, the lack of acidity in the stomach could allow yeasts to overgrow, but this has not been proven. Get your dog a prescription for sucralfate. Sucralfate is widely used as an anti-ulcer drug in humans that can also be used in animals if prescribed correctly. Sucralfate turns into a paste-like substance when it comes into contact with acid. It then sticks to the inflamed tissue, which seals the raw area off from the acid. The dose is a ballpark figure of 0.5 to 1 gram by mouth three times a day (larger dogs receive around 1 gram, while smaller dogs will receive 0.5). The liquid form of this medication is more effective than the tablet for acid reflux because the liquid coats the esophagus as it trickles down the gullet. The dose for the liquid form of this medication is 2.5 to 5 ml by mouth three times daily. Sucralfate is so effective a barrier that it does stop other drugs from being absorbed. Because of this, if your dog is taking other medications, you should give them to your dog an hour before you give him the sucralfate. Try giving your dog a prokinetic medication. A prokinetic medication increases the muscular tone of the digestive tract. The importance of this is that it tightens up the esophageal sphincter and makes it less likely that stomach acid will be able to leak into your dog's esophagus. There is one important prokinetic, metoclopramide. Get your dog a prescription for Metoclopramide. Metoclopramide works by helping the gastrointestinal tract deal with acetylcholine (a neurotransmitter that gives messages for muscles to contract). This helps to keep the esophageal sphincter closed so acid can't get into the esophagus. The dose of metoclopramide is 0.1 to 0.4mg/ kg four times a day by mouth. A 30 kg dog requires 3 to12 mg a dose, so giving one 5 mg tablet four times a day is a sensible starting point. Metoclopramide should not be given to dogs with a bowel obstruction, because the enhanced muscular contraction could cause bowel perforation. Also, metoclopramide is thought to increase prolactin release (the hormone that stimulates milk production) and should be avoided in female dogs have a false pregnancy as it will aggravate the symptoms. False pregnancy is where hormones fool the bitch into thinking she is pregnant when she isn't. Part of this is to prepare her to feed the "phantom" puppies by producing milk. However, lactating when there are no puppies to suckle the milk can make the bitch more likely to develop infections of the mammary gland, such as mastitis. See if antacid medications help your dog. Antacids decrease the amount of acid produced by the stomach, so they limit the amount of acid that could leak up into your dog's esophagus. Some over the counter antacids are available (such as famotidine, marketed as Pepcid), while stronger antacids are prescription only (omeprazole). Buy famotidine for your dog. Famotidine is an H2-receptor antagonist which means it slows down the production and secretion of acid in your dog's stomach. Famotidine is available over-the-counter at pharmacies. There is no veterinary equivalent and so it is acceptable to purchase famotidine yourself in order to medicate your dog. The recommended dose range is quite wide, but an average dose is around 0.5mg/kg by mouth twice a day. Thus a 30 kg dog would be given one-and-a-half 10 mg tablets twice a day. Give this medication on an empty stomach. Famotidine can be given long-term without reported incident. Look for signs that your dog has acid reflux. If your dog has reflux, he may begin showing some of the following symptoms : Spitting up food. Pain shortly after swallowing (your dog may whine when he tries to swallow). Weight loss and a lack of appetite. Bring your dog to a vet to be diagnosed. The vet will use an endoscopy to determine if your dog has acid reflux or not. An endoscopy involves sending a small camera down your dog's throat to inspect the lining of the esophagus. A dog with acid reflux will have a red, raw, sore, ulcerated looking esophagus near the opening to the stomach. Work with your vet to come up with a treatment plan. While this article outlines the steps you can take to help your dog, it is important to work with your vet to make sure that your dog gets the appropriate treatment given his specific medical history.

Take your dog to the vet if they vomiting regularly or shows sign of discomfort. Feed your dog a low fat, low protein diet. Feed your dog four small meals a day. Place your dog’s food bowl on a stool or low table. Give your dog gastroprotectants. Give your dog omeprazole. Get your dog a prescription for sucralfate. Try giving your dog a prokinetic medication. Get your dog a prescription for Metoclopramide. See if antacid medications help your dog. Buy famotidine for your dog. Look for signs that your dog has acid reflux. Bring your dog to a vet to be diagnosed. Work with your vet to come up with a treatment plan.

https://www.wikihow.com/Say-Hello-in-Chinese

How to Say Hello in Chinese

To say "hello" in Mandarin Chinese, say "nǐ hǎo," which is pronounced as "knee how." If you're saying "hello" in a more formal context, say "nín hǎo" instead, which is pronounced like "neen how." To greet a group of people, say "nǐmén hǎo," pronounced like "knee-men how." If you're answering the phone, you can just say "wéi," which is pronounced like "way."

Tell one person "nǐ hǎo. " The standard way of greeting someone is in Chinese with this informal Mandarin "hello." Remember to know how to pronounce the Chinese tones first before attempting. Translated directly, the phrase means something along the lines of "you good?" In Chinese script, this greeting is written as 你好. This greeting is roughly pronounced as knee how" "Ni" in this case is pronounced as a second/rising tone because it is located before another third tone word. "He" is a third tone word (the pitch of your voice should dip slightly and then rise to a higher pitch). Be more formal with "nín hǎo. " This greeting shares the same meaning as "nǐ hǎo," but it is a little more polite than its counterpart. Even though this phrase is more formal, it is not as common as "nǐ hǎo." "Nin" is the polite form of "you", but this formality can indicate a distance between you and the speaker. In Chinese script, this greeting is written as 您好. A rough pronunciation of nín hǎo is Neen how". "Nina" is a second (rising) tone. Greet a group with "nǐmén hǎo. " You should switch to this greeting when saying hello to more than one person. The term "nǐmén" is a plural form of "nǐ," meaning "you." In Chinese script, write nǐmén hǎo as 你们好. A rough pronunciation would be knee-men how". "Ni" is a third tone here, which should be connected with the particle men (second tone) after it. Answer the phone with "wéi. " When answering or calling someone on the telephone, say "hello" as "wéi." Note that wéi is not usually used as a greeting in person. It is generally restricted to telephone conversations. In Chinese script, wéi is written as 喂. A rough pronunciation of wéi is a way. This can be pronounced in a second tone as a question or a fourth (falling) tone to get someone's attention. Say "néih hóu. " This phrase is almost identical in meaning and pronunciation to the Mandarin version of "hello." Even in native Chinese script, the Mandarin and Cantonese versions of "hello" are both written as 你好. The romanization of these two greetings is different, however, and there are slight variations in pronunciation between the two. The Cantonese néih hóu is somewhat softer than the Mandarin nǐ hǎo. Instead of pronouncing the greeting as nee how, pronounce it more like nay ho. Answer the phone with "wái. " As with néih hóu, this telephone greeting is almost identical to its Mandarin counterpart in terms of meaning and pronunciation. As in Mandarin, the native Chinese script is written as 喂. The way to pronounce wái is slightly different in Cantonese. Pronounce it more like why instead of whey. It sounds kind of like way, but puts more emphasis on the "ay" and lower your voice a bit. Stick with versions of "nǐ hǎo" to be safe. While exact pronunciation varies from region to region and dialect to dialect, the most common way to say "hello" is almost always some form of "nǐ hǎo." In all dialects, the Chinese script for this greeting is written as 你好. Note that the romanization of 你好 will usually give you a rough idea of how to pronounce it. In Hakka Chinese, for instance, the romanization is Ni ho. The beginning nǐ sound is harder, while the ending hǎo sound sounds less like the English "ow" and more like the English long "o." In Shanghainese, on the other hand, the romanization is "Nong Hao." While the hǎo portion is very similar, the beginning nóng sound is more elongated and comes to a hard conclusion at the end of the syllable. Answer the phone with "oi" in Hakka Chinese. The Mandarin and Cantonese phone greetings do not work with Hakka Chinese. Used in other contexts, oil is an interjection meaning something along the lines of "oh." In Chinese script, I am writing as 噯. A rough pronunciation is simply Oy or ay. Greet a crowd with "dâga-haó" in Shanghainese. This greeting translates into "hello everybody" and can be used when greeting more than one person. In native Chinese script, this phrase is written as 大家好. A rough pronunciation of this phrase is due-gee how". DA is a fourth (sharp, falling) tone and Jia is a sustained pitch (a first tone word).

Tell one person "nǐ hǎo. Be more formal with "nín hǎo. Greet a group with "nǐmén hǎo. Answer the phone with "wéi. Say "néih hóu. Answer the phone with "wái. Stick with versions of "nǐ hǎo" to be safe. Answer the phone with "oi" in Hakka Chinese. Greet a crowd with "dâga-haó" in Shanghainese.

https://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Fence

How to Build a Fence

To build a fence, start by inserting your posts into the holes and stabilizing them with braces. Next, tamp down dirt or concrete into the holes to fix the posts in place. Then, nail a top and bottom rail running horizontally from the posts, and add center rails and boards, depending on your chosen fence style. Finish by adding several coats of wood sealer to protect your fence from the weather, and painting it in a color of your choice.

Know the lingo. Posts are the vertical support beams that are embedded in the ground. Rails are the horizontal supports that are attached to the posts. Boards or slats are the main material of the fence and can be either horizontal or vertical: they are attached to both the posts and rails. Consider at the function of the fence in order to decide on the material. If it is to provide privacy to a backyard garden, tall wooden boards may be the most appropriate choice. If it is meant to contain a pet, a simple stretch of pickets may provide the best combination of fresh air and ample protection. Decide on the height. Privacy fences should be a minimum of six feet to keep out prying eyes, while barriers meant to contain most pets or livestock can usually stay around four. Determine the length and angles of the fence's sides. Set end posts at the corners and use them to run a line in the exact area the fence is to be constructed. Decide on the posts' spacing. This should generally be around six to eight feet apart, depending on the type of fence and the terrain it will be installed upon. Mark the spaces with stakes. Take the time to carefully evaluate their position, as failing to align posts properly will impact the solidity of the overall structure. Use a post hole digger to dig holes at each stake marker. To ensure a stable fence, plan to set your posts at a depth of 1/3 of their length. This is the depth you'll need to dig your holes. Treat the bottom third of the posts with a protective seal to help prevent damage from underground moisture. Allow to stand overnight so the wood can become saturated. Put a few shovelfuls of dirt or gravel at the bottom of the post holes and insert the posts at a sharp 90-degree angle to the ground. Rock gently to help settle it. Check the angle of each post with a level and brace it with stakes. Corner posts should get extra support in both directions. Tamp down the dirt or concrete into the post hole to get it firmly into position. Leave the braces where they are for at least two weeks to allow the post to settle into place. Build a small mound of dirt or concrete around the post base to deter standing water. Nail a top and bottom rail to fence posts, running horizontally. Measure a set distance from the top of each post to determine where the place the bottom rail in order to keep it straight. Add center rails. Depending on the fence style, there may be just one or several. Nail boards to posts or rails, depending on the fence style. These can be all on one side of the rails or alternated in a pattern. Determine where the gate (if any) should be placed and its size. Most gates are at least 40 inches (101.6 cm) in length. Dig post holes and place reinforced posts on either side. Use the gravel/rocking/tamping process mentioned earlier to make them as sturdy as possible. Measure the opening, cut 2"x4" pieces into a frame shape and begin bolting them together. Attach hinge/support bracket to the bottom 2"x4" piece. Continue to construct the frame, adding hinge/brackets and corner brackets as you go. Place the gate in empty space to make sure it fits. If everything looks ship-shape, brace the hanging post with extra brackets to make sure it can bear the weight. Attach the hinges to the hanging post with heavy-duty lag screws. Whether you want the gate to open in or out determines which side you hang it on. Once the hinges are solidly placed, install the handle and latch on opposite side. Add several coats of wood sealer to protect your new fence from the elements. Paint the fence and gate with a wood stain in a color that complements the surroundings or add a colorful design.

Know the lingo. Consider at the function of the fence in order to decide on the material. Decide on the height. Determine the length and angles of the fence's sides. Decide on the posts' spacing. Mark the spaces with stakes. Use a post hole digger to dig holes at each stake marker. Treat the bottom third of the posts with a protective seal to help prevent damage from underground moisture. Put a few shovelfuls of dirt or gravel at the bottom of the post holes and insert the posts at a sharp 90-degree angle to the ground. Check the angle of each post with a level and brace it with stakes. Tamp down the dirt or concrete into the post hole to get it firmly into position. Build a small mound of dirt or concrete around the post base to deter standing water. Nail a top and bottom rail to fence posts, running horizontally. Add center rails. Nail boards to posts or rails, depending on the fence style. Determine where the gate (if any) should be placed and its size. Dig post holes and place reinforced posts on either side. Measure the opening, cut 2"x4" pieces into a frame shape and begin bolting them together. Attach hinge/support bracket to the bottom 2"x4" piece. Continue to construct the frame, adding hinge/brackets and corner brackets as you go. Place the gate in empty space to make sure it fits. Attach the hinges to the hanging post with heavy-duty lag screws. Add several coats of wood sealer to protect your new fence from the elements. Paint the fence and gate with a wood stain in a color that complements the surroundings or add a colorful design.

https://www.wikihow.com/Dress-Like-an-Artist

How to Dress Like an Artist

To dress like an artist, you'll want to wear old clothes that you wouldn't mind getting paint on. Choose comfortable and affordable clothes over brand names. Try ripped, faded jeans and a cardigan from a thrift store. Don't be afraid to mix styles or wear unusual colors. If you want to look like a stereotypical painter, you can even add a beret. For a more professional look, wear uncommon but subdued colors, like dark green or brown. Try a suit or a nice dress, but mix it up with a unique piece of jewelry, like a fancy belt buckle or bulky necklace.

Wear comfortable clothing while you work. As an artist, you will be spending long hours honing your craft. Whether you're working at an easel or on a computer, you want to make sure you're as comfortable as possible. If you work with a messy medium like paint, avoid clothing that is too baggy, especially if it has sleeves. Even if you aren't worried about getting your work clothes dirty, too-loose clothing may end up smearing your work. Protect your clothing. If you work with anything that can stain, such as paint or ink, you should take precautions to keep media away from your clothes. Cover up with an apron or a painting smock. Make sure it's made of a thick enough material that your media won't soak through quickly. Avoid working in clothes that you mind ruining. Even with taking care and wearing an apron, you are likely to still get the odd splash of paint here or there. Washing immediately may take care of most media on various fabrics, but you are bound to get the occasional permanent stain. Don't wear your best slacks in the studio. Work with what you have. As a young artist, you probably don't have a lot of money. Instead of pining for designer jeans way out of your price range, learn to build a stylish wardrobe without breaking the bank. Keep your clothes in good condition. Clothes that last longer will save you money. T-shirts and jeans may sound like a mundane combo, but you can use your own personal style to stand out. Wear T-shirts of your own design or that are otherwise unique. Wear jeans that are other colors besides the typical denim blue. A simple, creative way to stretch your wardrobe is to "mix and match" different pieces to create unique looks. Simply switching jackets between two suits will give you two "new" outfits. Shop at thrift stores. Second hand shops are the best way to stretch your clothing budget. In addition to basics and run-of-the-mill pieces, you'll be able to find unique styles at an affordable price. Look for quirky, odd "signature" pieces that fit your personality and will make you stand out. You can find retro and modern styles and then easily mix and match them. Most thrift shops have one or more glass cases in the front where they display nicer items, often jewelry. These items may be more expensive than typical thrift shop wares, but will still cost significantly less than retail. It's a great place to look for interesting pieces. Stop paying attention to brands. While brand names sometimes mean quality, more often than not you end up paying for the name. As an artist, that's a luxury you are not likely to afford. Besides, how creative can you look when you're dressed just like everyone else? An exception is to remember which brands actually do make quality clothing that lasts. This type of brand may be a little more expensive but will save you money over time. Keep your eyes peeled for them when thrifting or browsing auction websites. Do your own thing. Above all, to look like an artist you should dress how you want to. This could mean bright, attention-grabbing getup's that "push the boundaries." Or you may want to keep things casual and monochrome. You may even decide to do both on different days of the week. The choice is yours. Sew your own clothes. You don't have to be a fashion designer to make your own clothing. Working from a pattern makes sewing your own wardrobe relatively simple. Check out your local fabric store for some wild, off-beat patterns you wouldn't find on store-bought clothes. As your skill-level increases, you may even decide to design pieces from scratch without an existing sewing pattern. Screen print your own T-shirts. Are you tired of seeing the same old T-shirt designs? Make custom shirts that nobody else in the world can wear. If you have a business or studio, design T-shirts with its name and logo. If the shirts are eye-catching, wearing them can get complete strangers interested in your art. Create unique accessories. Find original buttons or add faux jewels to your clothes. Try your hand at basic jewelry crafts to make accessories that are both different and fit perfectly into your personal style. Upcycle any odd knickknack that can be incorporated into your clothes and accessories. Wear uncommon but not outlandish colors. When attending semi-formal business and social events, you will want to look both creative and sophisticated. These are prime networking environments, and you never know who may want to buy an expensive piece or give you your next job. Look sharp while standing out with a dark green or brown suit or dress. Add a belt. Belts enhance the style of any outfit they're worn with. When sporting an otherwise plain ensemble, a decorative belt and/or an interesting buckle can help you stand out from the crowd. Let others know more about your personal style and artistic interests with this small detail. Tooled leather is fairly uncommon in modern belts, and wearing a tooled leather belt is a simple way of looking unique. You can pick a belt buckle that holds some significance to either you or your art. For example, if your art frequently has an ocean theme, a buckle with a jellyfish or shark is a good choice. If you work with metal or leather, your belt is a great place to display your talents. Look for unique jewelry that ties your look together. Look for pieces that are funky, foreign, expensive or well-made. Jewelry with intricate details or pieces that hearken back to the 80s are also good artistic choices. If a piece is particularly large or wild-looking, it may be best to save it for casual outfits, rather than wear it to something dressier like an art opening. Just like your belt buckle, your jewelry can reflect your interests and art. For example, if you're interested in astronomy and/or frequently incorporate spacescapes, try finding jewelry that features planets or supernovae. Avoid pieces that look too expensive or ostentatious, even if you didn't pay much for them. It may be harder to sell your work if a potential buyer sees you decked out in gold and diamonds. Dress down. Artists are famously known to dress more casually than average. However, you want to make sure you don't come off as sloppy or unstylish. If you don't take the time to put creativity into your outfit, some people may doubt the level of creativity you put into your art. Instead, dress down in a deliberate fashion rather than randomly throwing on jeans and a T-shirt. Make sure your clothing is clean and fits well. Change your hairstyle. Choose a look that will make you stand out in a crowd. Consider these ideas for creating a wild look: Get a blunt cut from your stylist and ask him or her to add bangs. Arrange your hair into dreadlocks if that works for your hair type. Dye or streak your hair with a unique color. If you're wary of making a major change to your hair color that you can't undo, then use a temporary dye. If your hair is braided or dreadlocked, one or two strands dyed a bright color will really pop. When adding a streak to your hair, having it closer to your face will have the biggest impact. Back comb or "tease" your hair with a brush and some hairspray to give it volume. While most people who tease their hair today hide the knots with unteased hair, a popular "artsy" look is to make your back combing look obvious. Stop straightening or curling your hair. Let it return to its natural state. Choose a style that defies gender stereotypes. If you're a girl, go with extremely short hair. If you're a guy, grow your hair long. Get piercings. You can pierce your eyebrow, your lip or your nose for dramatic effect. Gauged earlobes are another popular piercing choice. Just remember that, unlike most other types of piercings, earlobe stretching is likely to be permanent. If you want something more subtle, pierce your ear cartilage. Consider tattoos. Tattoos themselves are an art form, and having a few may show off your creative side. If you consider your body a canvas, you might want to get tattooed in a way you find meaningful. Don't be thoughtless about it, though; you don't want to get a tattoo you'll regret. If you are a visual artist, consider drawing your own design for your tattoo artist to use. The modern artist stereotype often includes full sleeves and/or neck tattoos. If you don't want to commit to the artist look for life, try temporary tattoos instead. Stop shaving. You may want to grow out your facial hair or change your other shaving habits. Do what you want, and don't conform to social pressure. Shaving is a personal choice. Some artists shave, and some don't. However, the popular image of an artist usually has a beard or at least some stubble. Wear stylish jeans. While skinny jeans may be the fashion, remember that as an artist you want to set yourself apart from the crowd. Your jeans can also be ripped and faded. However, artsy guys should never wear ill-fitting or ruined dress pants. Wear a lot of black. Artists dressing all in black is a stereotype for good reason. In addition to flattering any figure, black also shows dirt and stains much less compared with other colors. When you're an artist with a limited budget, black clothes will save you cleaning and replacement costs. Artists also often wear black to events where they showcase their art. The monochromatic look draws attention away from them and onto their work. Wear a beret. A black beret is the ultimate artist fashion cliché. Fortunately, it also happens to be stylish. Berets look good on both guys and girls and can be worn a variety of ways. Get one for yourself to really sell the artistic look you're going for.

Wear comfortable clothing while you work. Protect your clothing. Avoid working in clothes that you mind ruining. Work with what you have. Shop at thrift stores. Stop paying attention to brands. Do your own thing. Sew your own clothes. Screen print your own T-shirts. Create unique accessories. Wear uncommon but not outlandish colors. Add a belt. Look for unique jewelry that ties your look together. Dress down. Change your hairstyle. Get piercings. Consider tattoos. Stop shaving. Wear stylish jeans. Wear a lot of black. Wear a beret.

https://www.wikihow.com/Tell-if-Your-Friends-Are-Getting-Tired-of-You

How to Tell if Your Friends Are Getting Tired of You

To tell if your friends are getting tired of you, pay attention to how often they hang out without you, since they might have lost interest in you if they never invite you to hang out. Another way to find out is to invite your friends over for a movie night or to play games. If they turn down your invitation on multiple occasions, they're probably not very interested in staying friends with you. You can also just ask your friends why they're not spending much time with you. For example, say something like, “I feel like we've been pretty distant recently. I just wondered if something was up?” If they admit they'd rather spend time with other people, don't let that get your down, since you can easily make new friends with people who will want to hang out with you.

Decide if you are getting tired of them. When you suspect that your friends are getting tired of you, then it may be because you are tired of them. Ask yourself a few questions to find out if this is the case: Are you putting little effort into the relationship, such as not contacting them and not making plans? Do you feel bored when you are with them? Do you hope that plans with them get cancelled? Determine if your friends are excluding you. If your friends are tired of you, it's likely that they're starting to exclude you from things or ignore you. You might notice that they feel more distant from you. Even if they speak to you, it might be more out of convenience and they may not go out of their way to invite you to events. For example, your friends might hang out with you at school but exclude you on the weekends. Before you decide your friends are excluding you, ask yourself if you are putting in the same effort you expect from them. If you don't invite them to do things, then they may not think to invite you. Recognize if there have been bumps in your friendship recently. Sometimes, conflicts can lead to distance. For example, if you have had a fight with one or more of your friends, they may take some distance while things cool off. Taking some time apart is normal if you disagree about something. If time goes on and you haven't made up or they say that things are fine but they've nearly stopped talking to you, this may indicate greater problems. Understanding the wider context can sometimes help you to see why your friends might be distancing themselves. If you have been apart because of an issue, reach out to them to start repairing your relationship. For example, apologize first after a fight. Pay attention to constant excuses. Excuses are a weak way of not saying openly what the person really thinks. You might still talk to your friends, but when it comes to having fun, they might make excuses for not wanting you to come. If the excuses keep adding up, this might be one way they're indirectly telling you that they're tired of you. If the excuses don't quite make sense, the person might use them to create distance or spend some time apart from you. Evaluate your need for approval. If you're always looking for approval, your friends might get tired of affirming you. Saying things like, “We're best friends, right?” or, “You're going to invite me to that party, aren't you?” can be exhausting. While you want to feel accepted and included, don't go actively seeking that inclusion. If you find yourself asking for validation from your friends, step back. If you're worried about the friendship ending and want constant reassurance, it can turn into a self-fulfilling prophesy in no time. Make sure that you are not being needy. Spend time working on things that are special to you instead of asking for others to validate you. Notice bullying behavior. Some people might be nice to you sometimes and mean to you at other times. If these friends call you names, steal from you, or talk about you behind your back, this isn't friendship behavior. This sounds more like bullying than friendship. Other bullying behavior might include gossiping, spreading rumors, or purposefully embarrassing you. Pay attention to hurtful words. You might find yourself the butt of the jokes or notice that your friends put you down. If you say something, they might tell you to stop being sensitive or that you can't take a joke. Friends do not mock or insult friends. This could be a serious sign that they're trying to exclude you. You might laugh along but really feel insecure or unhappy that they're making fun of you. If your friends say hurtful things about you, say, "I don't think that's funny. In fact, it's really rude and hurtful." If they continue to say these things, then they aren't being good friends. Feeling like you fit in with these friends isn't worth being put down or made fun of. Be realistic. Don't kid yourself that they still are great friends if they've stopping inviting you out or act as though they don't care about you. It can be hard to accept that your friendship has changed or that the people you thought were friends aren't great friends to you. Just don't hang around nasty people because you want to feel accepted. If you friends are being mean, don't feel like you need them or you must win them back. If they aren't treating you well, it's best to accept the end of the friendship and make new friends. Talk to your friends. A mature way to approach the situation is through talking and communicating clearly. Ask them why they are behaving that way and how it makes you feel. It is possible that they haven't realized that their actions are rude or unfriendly. In some cases, a friend may be feeling sick or having troubles of their own and is lashing out instead of thinking clearly. Use “I” statements and avoid being defensive or blaming. For example, say, “It hurts my feelings when I'm left out. What's going on?” Avoid blaming, criticizing, or becoming defensive. Reflect on useful feedback. While some people say things because they are mean, your friends might have some valuable feedback you can reflect upon. If they're being honest and not trying to be mean, try to see things from their perspective. For example, if they say that you chew loudly and don't want to invite you to eat, try not to get too offended. Instead, make an effort to chew with your mouth closed. If they say things just to be mean and it seems like their statements are an attack on you, disregard what they say. Invite your friends over for some fun. If you feel like your friends are distant, invite them over to have some fun with you. You could have a movie night, a sleepover or play games together. If you all get together and have a good time, you might be able to resolve any issues and start over. However, be aware that this isn't a good solution if your friends are constantly being nasty. If you keep inviting them over and they keep rejecting the invitation, it's time to move on or talk to them. Work on building your friendship skills. Friendship and social skills are important to maintaining and building your friends group. Ask yourself what qualities you want in a friend, then make an effort to be those things. Look for people who treat you the way you want to be treated and aim to treat them well, too. For example, aim to be caring, reliable, and a good listener. Look for people who respond the same way. Move on and make new friends. You might realize that the friendship is over and want to invite new friends in your life. It can be fun and exciting to make new friends and give you new opportunities to learn and grow. It'll take time to heal and find new friends, but you will find other people. Be open to seeing who else is out there looking to connect. At the end of the day, it is important to be around people who actually want to be your friends, and who care about you. If you're not sure where to make friends, get involved in activities at school or outside of school such as sports teams, hobbies, and volunteering. Choose an environment that will attract the right friends. You will meet positive people who have the qualities you desire in a friend by going places where they frequent, such as charitable organizations, after-school activities, or recreational groups. Look for friends and acquaintances that have characteristics you value, such as honesty and generosity. Try meetup.com to look for local groups. If you're in school, look for clubs and organizations that match your hobbies or give back to the community.

Decide if you are getting tired of them. Determine if your friends are excluding you. Recognize if there have been bumps in your friendship recently. Pay attention to constant excuses. Evaluate your need for approval. Notice bullying behavior. Pay attention to hurtful words. Be realistic. Talk to your friends. Reflect on useful feedback. Invite your friends over for some fun. Work on building your friendship skills. Move on and make new friends. Choose an environment that will attract the right friends.

https://www.wikihow.com/Decrease-Platelets

How to Decrease Platelets

If a medical professional has told you to decrease your platelets, drink coffee, which reduces the platelets in your blood and their ability to clump together. Additionally, eat seafood rich in omega-3 fatty acids, like tuna and salmon, which decreases platelets. You can also incorporate raw or crushed garlic into your diet, since it contains a compound that inhibits your body's ability to make platelets. It may be worth considering supplements like gingko bilboa or ginseng, as well, because they contain substances that thin your blood and prevent clots.

Eat raw garlic to decrease the number of platelets in your blood. Raw or crushed garlic contains a compound called "allicin" which affects the body's ability to make platelets, therefore decreasing the number of platelets in the blood. Your body responds to the lower platelet level by improving its immunity, which helps to protect the body from any foreign objects (such as viruses and bacteria) that enter the system. The allicin content of garlic decreases rapidly with cooking, so try to eat it raw. Eating raw garlic causes stomach upset in some people, so be sure to eat the raw garlic with food. Take ginko biloba to reduce blood viscosity. Gingko biloba contains substances called “terpenoids” which reduce blood viscosity (making it thinner) and prevent the formation of clots. Gingko biloba also help to improve blood circulation and increases your body's production of warfarin, which helps to dissolve clots. Gingko biloba is available as a supplement in liquid or capsule form. You can buy these supplements at the drug or health food store. If you can get your hands on gingko biloba leave, you can boil the leaves in water for 5 to 7 minutes, then drink the water as a tea. Use ginseng to prevent clot formation. Ginseng contains “ginsenosides” that help to decrease platelet aggregation, and therefore prevent the formation of clots. Ginseng is available in capsule form at drug and health food stores. It is often added to energy foods and drinks. Ginseng causes insomnia and nausea in some people, so you will need to test it out for a trial period to see how it reacts with your body. Eat pomegranates for their anti-platelet effect. Pomegranates contain substances called polyphenols which have an an anti-platelet effect — this means that they reduce your body's production of platelets and prevent existing platelets from clotting. You can eat whole, fresh pomegranate fruits, drink pomegranate juice, or add pomegranate extract to your cooking. Eat seafood rich in omega-3 to inhibit platelet production. Omega-3 fatty acids affect platelet activity, thinning the blood and reducing the chance of clotting. Omega-3's are abundant in seafood such as tuna, salmon, scallops, sardine, shellfish and herring. Try to include 2 to 3 servings of these fish per week, to meet your recommended weekly allowance of omega-3s If you're not fond of fish, you can boost your omega-3 intake by taking 3000 to 4000mg of fish oil supplements per day. Drink red wine to reduce the chances of clot formation. Red wine contains flavonoids, which comes from the skin of red grapes during production. These flavonoids prevent the overproduction of cells in the lining of artery walls (a process caused by too many platelets in the blood). This reduces reduces the chances of clot formation. There is one unit of alcohol in half a standard glass of wine (about 175 ml). Men should not drink more than 21 units of alcohol per week, and no more than four per day. Women should not drink more than 14 units of alcohol per week, and no more than three per day. Both men and women should have at least two alcohol free days per week. Eat fruit and veg containing "salicylates" which help to thin the blood. Fruit and vegetables that contain “salicylates” help to thin the blood and prevent clotting. They also boost the body's immunity and help to maintain normal platelet count. Vegetables that contain salicylates include cucumber, mushrooms, zucchini, radish, and alfalfa. Fruits that contain salicylates include all kinds of berries, cherries, raisins and oranges. Eating shiitake mushrooms is a good natural option for decreasing platelets. Add cinnamon to cooking to reduce platelet aggregation. Cinnamon contains a compound called “cinnamaldehyde” which is known to reduce platelet aggregation and therefore blood clotting. Add ground cinnamon to baked goods or stewed vegetables. You could also try boiling a cinnamon stick in tea or wine. Quit smoking to prevent blood clots. Smoking puts you at increased risk of developing blood clots, due to several harmful compounds found in cigarettes (such as nicotine). Smoking causes the blood to become thicker and the platelets to clump together. Serious health issues such as heart problems and strokes often occur as a result of clots forming in the blood. Quitting smoking is one of the best things you can do to avoid these blood clots from forming in the first place. Quitting is difficult, and is not something that can be done overnight. See this article for some helpful advice on how to quit smoking. Drink coffee for its anti-platelet effect. Coffee contains an anti-platelet effect, which means that it reduces the number of platelets in the blood and prevents platelet aggregation. The anti-platelet effect of coffee is not due to caffeine, but to phenolic acids. Therefore, you can still benefit from the anti-platelet effect by drinking decaffeinated coffee. Take blood thinning medication, as prescribed by your doctor. Under certain circumstances, your doctor will prescribe blood thinning medications. These medications will prevent blood viscosity, platelet aggregation, and the formation of blood clots. Some of the most commonly prescribed medications include: Aspirin Hydroxyurea Anagrelide Interferon alfa Busulfan Pipobroman Phosphorus – 32 Undergo a procedure known as plateletpheresis. In emergency circumstances, your doctor may advise a treatment known as plateletpheresis, which rapidly decreases the number of platelets in the blood. During plateletpheresis, an intravenous line is inserted into one of your blood vessels to remove blood from your body. This blood is then passed through a machine that removes platelets from the blood. The platelet-free blood is then passed back into the body through a second intravenous line.

Eat raw garlic to decrease the number of platelets in your blood. Take ginko biloba to reduce blood viscosity. Use ginseng to prevent clot formation. Eat pomegranates for their anti-platelet effect. Eat seafood rich in omega-3 to inhibit platelet production. Drink red wine to reduce the chances of clot formation. Eat fruit and veg containing "salicylates" which help to thin the blood. Add cinnamon to cooking to reduce platelet aggregation. Quit smoking to prevent blood clots. Drink coffee for its anti-platelet effect. Take blood thinning medication, as prescribed by your doctor. Undergo a procedure known as plateletpheresis.

https://www.wikihow.com/Drive-a-Pontoon-Boat

How to Drive a Pontoon Boat

Driving a pontoon is similar to driving a vehicle, but because you're on the water, there are slightly different safety procedures that you need to follow. Before you start driving, make sure that everyone on board is wearing a life jacket. Start the motor and let the boat idle for about 5 minutes so it can warm up. Then, adjust the trim, which is the depth of the propeller in the water, by pressing the button on the throttle so the motor is just in the water. Slowly back out using short, controlled bursts. Once you're in open water, move the throttle forward and turn the steering wheel so the front of the boat is pointing in the direction you want to travel. Always look 100 feet ahead of you while you're driving. When you want to turn the boat, slow down to medium speed and gently turn the wheel in the direction you want to go.

Make sure all passengers are wearing life jackets. Before you move the boat at all, check that all your passengers are wearing life jackets or another personal flotation device, or PFD. In most states, it is the law that all passengers wear life jackets while on open waters. The life jackets should fit properly and be in working condition. Children should be wearing specialized jackets meant for their age groups. You should also have a cushion on the boat that you can throw to someone in the water in the event they are in distress. Check the fuel level and the radio on the boat. Make sure you have a full tank of gas in the boat, as this will ensure you can drive the boat on the water safely. You should also have a working radio system on the boat that you can use in the event of an emergency. Make sure you also have your cellphone, fully charged, on hand so you can call for help or assistance if needed. Secure all equipment on the boat. Check that items like fishing rods, wakeboards, coolers, and extra life jackets are all secure before starting the boat. You may use bungee cords to secure wakeboards and fishing rods. You can also push coolers against the sides of the boat so they are secure. Start the motor and allow the boat to idle for 1-5 minutes. Turn the motor to “on.” Let the boat idle for several minutes so it can warm up. Check the manufacturer's instructions for the exact idle time needed for your boat. Trim the motor so it is in the water, but not too deep. The trim is how deep the motor on the boat sits in the water. There should be a “Trim” button on the throttle. Make sure the button is set at a higher number so the motor is just in the water. This will make pulling out of the dock much smoother. You can also check the manufacturer's instructions to see what the “Trim” button should be set at on the throttle for pulling out of the dock. Never pull out with the motor trimmed all the way up, as this will cause the boat to kick up water and could damage the engine. The motor should be touching the water when you pull out. Have a crew member untie the deck ropes as you put the throttle in “reverse. ” Ask someone on the boat to lean over the sides and undo the deck ropes so the boat is no longer tied down. As they release the deck ropes, gently shift the throttle in reverse so you can back out. Make sure the person has regained their balance and is sitting firmly in the boat before you reverse the boat. Move the throttle slowly and with ease. Do not pull it in reverse too quickly, as this can cause you to lose control of the boat. Back away slowly by pushing the throttle in short, controlled bursts. Look around you and behind you to make sure there are no obstructions, such as another boat or an animal. Then, back out of the dock slowly using short, controlled bursts on the throttle. Back out until you do not have any obstructions or boats in front of you or around you. Turn the steering wheel so the bow points in the direction you want to travel. You want your bow to be facing into the wind, as this will help the boat to navigate smoothly in the water. Shift into “forward” and move the throttle forward. Increase your speed in increments until you are cruising at a reasonable pace. Do not push down on the throttle hard and move off too quickly, as this can cause you to those control of the boat. Always make sure you check that there are no obstructions in front of you before you move forward. Keep the motor trimmed downward. Once you are in open water, adjust the “Trim” button on the throttle so it is at a lower number. This will trim the engine downward, deeper into the water. Trimming the engine downward will prevent the bow from rising too high when you get going on the water. Keep one hand on the throttle and the other hand on the steering wheel as you drive the boat. This will make it easier for you to maintain the trim and steer the boat. Look 100 feet (30 m) ahead at all times. Be aware of your surroundings when you are in the boat. Scan the water ahead as you move forward. Use the side and back mirrors on the boat to check for any obstructions behind or to the side of the boat. This will ensure you are not at risk of hitting another boat, an animal, or driftwood in the water. Before you make any turns or reverse the boat, double check your surroundings first. Maintain equal weight on the bow and the stern. Make sure there are people sitting or standing on the front and the back of the boat when you are moving in the water. If you have to accelerate or increase your speed, check that there is equal weight on the bow and stern before you accelerate so the boat is not at risk of flooding. When the boat is idle in open water, the weight distribution is not too much of an issue. Ideally, it should be equal on the bow and stern as much as possible. Cruise at 4500 RPM or slower. Remember that boats do not have brakes, so you will need to maintain a cruising speed that is not too fast. Most pontoon boats should be kept at 4500 RPM in open waters. You can cruise at a lower speed if you want to conserve your fuel, at around 3000 to 3500 RPM. A good rule of thumb is to accelerate gradually and maintain a speed that you feel you comfortable at. You should feel like you can easily slow down the boat at the cruising speed, if needed. Plan your turns in advance. Turning a pontoon boat can be tricky, as the stern can fly sideways if the turns are too sharp. Look ahead in front of you and plan out your turns so you can make them in a gentle, sweeping motion. Planning out the turns will also help you to avoid making sharp or sudden turns. Turn the boat downwind at a medium speed. The wide shape of a pontoon boat can make turning into the wind difficult, as the boat may push against the wind and not get very far. You can turn more effectively by pointing the bow of the boat downwind, away from the direction of the wind, so the wind can help the boat to turn smoothly. Make sure you are at a medium speed when you turn the pontoon. Turning at a very slow speed or a very fast speed can cause the boat to slide. Warn your passengers before you make a sharp turn. Sometimes when you are driving the pontoon boat, you have to make a sharp turn. Sharp turns can cause the boat to lean and rock due to its shape. Before you make the turn, let your passengers know so they can make sure they have braced themselves against the boat or they are sitting in a secure position. For example, you may yell, “Sharp turn coming!” or “This turn is sharp!” so your passengers have enough of a warning. Slow down when you see the dock. Shift the throttle so you reduce your speed gradually as you spot the dock and move the boat towards it. Make sure you follow the harbor rules and slow down to the set speed limit around the dock or harbor. Accelerate downward and shift into neutral as you approach the slip. Do not approach the slip at a fast speed, as you risk hitting the boat on the dock. Maintain a slow, even speed so you have just enough power to maneuver the boat into the spot. Turn the wheel so the center of the bow is pointing at the middle of the slip. Draw an imaginary line in an arc from the center of the bow to the middle of the slip. Try to keep your boat on this imaginary line as you turn the wheel. If the boat drifts to the left or right of the line, lightly move the wheel so it stays on the line. Shift to “forward” as you turn. As you turn the wheel, gently shift the throttle forward so you can ease into the slip. Let momentum do most of the work so the boat can glide into the spot. Shift into “reverse” to make small adjustments. If you end up slightly crooked or to one side in the slip, shift into “reverse” and turn the wheel slightly to make adjustments. Try to get the center of the bow lined up with the middle of the slip as much as you can. Be aware of the wind and the current as you make adjustments, as they can affect the movement of the boat. Try move with the wind or current so you can straighten out the boat properly. Have a crew member jump on the dock and use the ropes to adjust the boat. If you are struggling to park the pontoon, ask a crew member to hop out and grab ahold of the ropes on the boat. Then, have them help you by dragging the boat into place using the ropes. Direct the crew member as needed so you can get the pontoon straight in the slip. Tie the pontoon up on the dock. Once the pontoon is properly docked in the slip, use the ropes to secure the pontoon to the dock. Use a cleat hitch or a bowline knot to tie the boat to the dock so it stays in place.

Make sure all passengers are wearing life jackets. Check the fuel level and the radio on the boat. Secure all equipment on the boat. Start the motor and allow the boat to idle for 1-5 minutes. Trim the motor so it is in the water, but not too deep. Have a crew member untie the deck ropes as you put the throttle in “reverse. Back away slowly by pushing the throttle in short, controlled bursts. Turn the steering wheel so the bow points in the direction you want to travel. Shift into “forward” and move the throttle forward. Keep the motor trimmed downward. Look 100 feet (30 m) ahead at all times. Maintain equal weight on the bow and the stern. Cruise at 4500 RPM or slower. Plan your turns in advance. Turn the boat downwind at a medium speed. Warn your passengers before you make a sharp turn. Slow down when you see the dock. Accelerate downward and shift into neutral as you approach the slip. Turn the wheel so the center of the bow is pointing at the middle of the slip. Shift to “forward” as you turn. Shift into “reverse” to make small adjustments. Have a crew member jump on the dock and use the ropes to adjust the boat. Tie the pontoon up on the dock.

https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Face-Serum

How to Use a Face Serum

To use a face serum, start by washing your face with an exfoliating cleanser, like a face scrub, to remove any dirt and oil. If you're using a thin serum, apply 1 drop to your forehead, nose, chin, and each cheek. For thick serums, drip 3 to 5 drops into the palm of your hand and warm the serum up by rubbing your palms together before applying it to your face. After you've rubbed the serum into your skin, place your fingers on your cheeks and press your skin in small, circular motions for 30 to 60 seconds until the serum is fully absorbed. Follow up with a dime-sized amount of moisturizer to your face, which will seal in the serum's nourishing properties.

Try a serum with glycolic acid and aloe vera for an all-purpose option. If you have a “normal” skin type or simply want a serum to keep your skin flawless, try one with these ingredients. Aloe vera reduces redness and boosts skin hydration. Glycolic acid removes dead skin cells so they don't clog your pores. Great skin starts with hydration! This is a great option if you don't have any “problem areas” but still want to treat your skin to rich nourishment. It's also a good option to help fade sun damage and acne scars. Additionally, look for serums with rose hip oil. This also reduces redness and helps hydrate the skin. Use a serum with vitamin C, retinol, salicylic acid, or Benzoyl peroxide to manage acne. Vitamin C will help revitalize your skin, while retinol and Benzoyl peroxide are powerful anti-acne ingredients. Salicylic acid helps heal existing acne, as well. This combination works great to reduce inflammation or redness manage oil, and treat or prevent acne. In addition, serums with these ingredients help unclog your pores. Salicylic acid can cause sunburn, so it is best to use this serum at night. Apply a serum with glycolic and hyaluronic acid if you have dry skin. Both glycolic acid and hyaluronic acid help the skin retain moisture. These ingredients team up to deliver a potent, moisturizing serum that works great for dry skin. The serum will not feel like a heavy moisturizer, and it will deeply hydrate your skin in seconds. You can also use vitamin E, rose hip oil, chia seeds, sea buckthorn, and camellia to hydrate your skin without clogging your pores. Choose a serum with retinol and peptides to reduce wrinkles. Retinol plumps up fine lines and wrinkles, and peptides help build healthy skin. Combine these ingredients, and you have a fabulous, wrinkle-reducing serum. For best results, apply these serums at night so your skin can absorb the serum as you sleep, helpful when treating wrinkles. You can also use a serum with antioxidants including vitamin C and green tea extract. These ingredients help protect your skin as well as reduce the appearance of wrinkles. Try serums with vitamin C and ferulic acid to brighten your complexion. Your skin tone can look uneven or dull due to sun exposure, smoking, genetics, and poor sleep. Vitamin C and ferulic acid are powerful antioxidants that can bring your skin back to life. They neutralize free radicals in your skin, making your skin tone more even and lively. In addition, many brightening serums use green tea extract, which is another helpful antioxidant. Some brightening serums feature snail mucin, which is popular for its ability to repair scars and heal discoloration or uneven spots. Treat uneven skin tones with licorice root extract and kojic acid. Licorice root extract helps eliminate the appearance of discoloration and age spots. Kojic acid treats scars, sun damage, and uneven skin tones. Within a few weeks, your skin may look even and radiant if you use a serum rich in these ingredients. Also look for serums with Vitamin C, as this is known to brighten skin. You can also choose a serum with arbutin when evening out your skin tone. Arbutin is commonly used to stop the appearance of dark spots. It also brightens your overall complexion. When choosing a serum with vitamin C, look for options with L-ascorbic acid, which is the most effective part of the vitamin. This is helpful when revitalizing an uneven skin tone. Use an under-the-eye serum to reduce the appearance of dark circles. There are specially formulated serums specifically made to target dark circles under your eyes. If you want to reduce the appearance of under-the-eye circles, opt for one of these. They usually are rich in ingredients like licorice root extract or arbutin. Apply these directly to your under eye region. You can use this as well as daytime and nighttime serums. Avoid applying under-the-eye serums to other areas of your face. Sometimes the ingredients are more potent to absorb under your eye, and this can cause irritation or breakouts. Choose both a daytime serum and nighttime serum for best results. Daytime serums are typically less concentrated, so you don't have to worry about sun exposure. Nighttime serums are very concentrated, and the ingredients take effect while you are sleeping. Use both to keep your skin as healthy and flawless as possible. Start slowly with your serums to give your skin time to adjust to new products. Start by applying your nightly serum once every other day, and gradually increase build toward nightly application over the course of a few weeks. Then, add your daily serum. Use an antioxidant serum in the morning to keep your skin protected. Apply a nighttime serum with retinol to keep a youthful appearance. Wash and exfoliate your skin before you apply your serum. Before you apply your serum, wash your face with a facial wash or scrub. Wet your face, then massage your face wash over your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. Move your fingers in small, circular motions, then rinse the face wash away. Washing your face removes superficial dirt and oil, while exfoliating gets into your pores for a deep clean. For best results, wash your face daily and exfoliate your skin 3-4 times a week. Do not use a manual exfoliator and a chemical exfoliator like glycolic acid in the same day. Apply 1 drop to each section of your face if using a thin serum. The amount of serum you use will vary depending on the consistency of the ingredients. When using thinner serums, you only need a tiny amount. Apply 1 drop to your finger, then rub onto your cheek. Repeat this for the other cheek, as well as your forehead and nose/chin area. Gently rub the serum in an upwards motion. Warm 3-5 drops in your hands before applying a thick serum to the face. More dense serums need to be warmed up before you apply them. To do this, drip a few drops into the palm of your hand, then rub your hands together. This evenly distributes the product on both of your hands, as well. Then, use gentle pressing movements to apply the serum over your face. Cover both cheeks, your forehead, your nose, and your chin. When applying the serum, you want to push the product into your skin with gentle sweeping motions. Tap your skin gently for 30-60 seconds until the serum is absorbed. After you've rubbed the serum onto your skin, place your fingers on your cheek and press your skin in small, circular motions. Repeat this across the entirety of your face for about a minute. This way, the serum will absorb deep into your skin. Wait one minute to apply moisturizer over all of your face. Your serum will mostly dissolve into your skin after about a minute. Then, squeeze a dime-size amount of moisturizer into your hand, and rub it over your forehead, cheeks, nose, and chin. The moisturizer seals in all of the serum's nourishing properties, so your skin will look radiant and glowing in no time. If you are doing this in the morning, you can apply your makeup after you apply the moisturizer. Just give the moisturizer another minute to dry before starting your makeup routine.

Try a serum with glycolic acid and aloe vera for an all-purpose option. Use a serum with vitamin C, retinol, salicylic acid, or Benzoyl peroxide to manage acne. Apply a serum with glycolic and hyaluronic acid if you have dry skin. Choose a serum with retinol and peptides to reduce wrinkles. Try serums with vitamin C and ferulic acid to brighten your complexion. Treat uneven skin tones with licorice root extract and kojic acid. Use an under-the-eye serum to reduce the appearance of dark circles. Choose both a daytime serum and nighttime serum for best results. Wash and exfoliate your skin before you apply your serum. Apply 1 drop to each section of your face if using a thin serum. Warm 3-5 drops in your hands before applying a thick serum to the face. Tap your skin gently for 30-60 seconds until the serum is absorbed. Wait one minute to apply moisturizer over all of your face.

https://www.wikihow.com/Groom-Your-Yorkie-Poo

How to Groom Your Yorkie Poo

If you want to groom your Yorkie Poo, start by brushing out its entire coat with a slicker brush to remove any tangles. Next, dampen your dog's coat with lukewarm water, wash its fur thoroughly with dog shampoo, and dry its coat with a hair dryer or let it air dry. Then, hold your dog firmly and clip its nails one at a time. Finally, use electric dog clippers to trim your Yorkie Poo's beard and back.

Gather all the necessary supplies. In order to groom your Yorkie Poo at home, you'll need to purchase some basic supplies. This includes dog shampoo, a dog brush, nail clippers, and dog hair trimmers. You may also need some other common household items like a hair dryer, towels, and a nonslip mat for your bathtub. Be sure to purchase shampoo that is specially formulated for canines. Human shampoo contains many ingredients that can be harmful or irritating to dogs. You can even purchase dog shampoo that is formulated for your pup's specific needs – like sensitive skin, brittle coat, or puppy formulas. A slicker brush is the most common type of brush used on dogs. It has wire (sometimes plastic) teeth that work well to remove excess hair and work out tangles and mats. Prepare the area. Find a safe place in your house where you can perform the grooming activities. Your bathroom is probably the best space for this, especially if it has a door that you can close to keep your Yorkie Poo from running out if it gets scared. Lay out some towels on the floor to help minimize the mess during the grooming process. Save one towel for drying your pup later. You can also use an outdoor space for grooming as long as it is fully enclosed (like a fenced-in yard or garage) to ensure your dog can't escape. But be mindful of weather conditions. You don't want to groom your Yorkie Poo outside if it is too cold or rainy. Brush the dog. Begin with your dog's face and gently work out any tangles in the dog's beard with the brush. Then move on to your dog's back, legs, and belly. Brush smaller sections at a time to keep your pet comfortable. Bring the brush to the base of the coat and comb it through the full length of the hair to make sure you get all of the tangles out. Brushing your Yorkie Poo regularly is the single best thing you can do to keep up with your at-home grooming regimen and keep your dog looking its best. You can brush your Yorkie Poo as often as every day, but be sure to do it at least once every three days or so. The longer and curlier your Yorkie Poo's hair is, the more frequently you'll need to brush it. Get the dog's coat wet. After you have brushed out your dog's hair, you'll need to dampen its coat with water. Use lukewarm water to wet down your dog's hair in the sink or bathtub. Run your fingers through the dog's hair as you pour the water to ensure that the hair is getting fully saturated all the way to the base. Use water that is slightly warm – never cold or too hot. Be sure to put down a nonslip surface in the bathtub to help your dog with traction and to prevent slipping. Lather on the shampoo. Use a small amount of dog shampoo (probably about the size of a quarter) to lather up your dog with suds. Lather your dog's body first and then the head. Gently rub the shampoo into your dog's hair, making sure to soap up the entire coat. Be careful to avoid getting shampoo in your dog's eyes, ears, and nose. This can be stressful and uncomfortable for your dog. Again, be sure to only use shampoo that is specially formulated for use on dogs. Rinse with water. After you've finished shampooing your Yorkie Poo, it's time to rinse all the soap out. Rinse the soap from your dog's head first and then from his body. Pour warm water on your dog's fur and use your hand to gently rub and get the soap out. Begin with your dog's back, then move to the dog's face. Finally, rinse the shampoo from the dog's legs, belly, and tail. Make sure that you thoroughly remove all of the soap and soap residue. Any remaining on your dog's skin could cause irritation. Dry the hair. When you are done bathing your Yorkie Poo, you should use a towel to soak up any excess water remaining on the dog. Gently towel dry the dog and then set it down on the ground so that your pup can shake off some additional excess water. At this point, you can either let your dog air dry or use a hairdryer to fully dry your dog's coat. Be sure to use the blow dryer on the lowest/coolest setting available to ensure you don't burn your pup's skin. Most dogs are initially frightened by the sound of the hair dryer. But, over time, your dog should grow accustomed to it. Try introducing the dog to the noise slowly at first and building up to longer sessions. Trim your dog's nails. Hold your dog firmly so that it doesn't wiggle free or feel nervous. Take the nail clippers and insert each nail into the hole, one at a time. However, do not insert the nail too far and only cut a small amount of the nail at a time. Make a swift cut with the nail clippers to get a clean cut with minimal breakage. Be sure to cut from the underneath side so that you have a better visual of the quick. The pink part is the quick, which is living tissue and will cause bleeding and pain for your pet if you cut it. If you accidentally make your dog's nails bleed, don't feel too bad. This even happens to professional groomers from time to time. Make sure you have some styptic powder or cornstarch on hand to dip the nails in if they start bleeding. This will help coagulation. Use the hair trimmer. If you want to keep your Yorkie Poo's coat short and stylish, you'll need to use some electric dog clippers. A typical Yorkie Poo haircut includes a shaggy face with a slightly trimmed beard and a shaved back that tapers into longer leg hair. You can adjust the style however you like. Use a Number 10 blade on the clippers to get a short cut. Be careful not to cut your dog's skin as you clip his fur. Be sure to purchase hair clippers made for dogs – they have more teeth than human hair clippers, which works better for the thicker hair in a dog's coat. Make sure your Yorkie Poo is secured to something during the grooming process so that it doesn't fall and hurt itself. Maintain dental health. In order to keep your dog healthy and looking its best, it's important for you to stay on top of the dog's dental health. A well-groomed dog should have healthy looking teeth and steer clear of bad breath. Give your Yorkie Poo doggie treats that are intended for promoting canine dental health. Chewing on these may help clean your dog's teeth each time it eats one. You can also brush your Yorkie Poo's teeth. Some dogs don't like this, but they can grow accustomed to it over time. Use a double-headed toothbrush and toothpaste that is meant for dogs. Do not use human toothpaste as it contains fluoride, which can be toxic to dogs. Additionally, ask your veterinarian to check your Yorkie Poo's teeth at your annual checkup.

Gather all the necessary supplies. Prepare the area. Brush the dog. Get the dog's coat wet. Lather on the shampoo. Rinse with water. Dry the hair. Trim your dog's nails. Use the hair trimmer. Maintain dental health.

https://www.wikihow.com/Adopt-a-Dolphin

How to Adopt a Dolphin

If you want to adopt a dolphin, first choose an organization to adopt from, like The World Wildlife Fund, The Oceanic Society, or Whale and Dolphin Conservation. Then, choose your package if you have several to choose from, to get extra materials and updates about your dolphin. Alternatively, search online for zoos or aquariums that offer dolphin adoption, which can help fund veterinary costs and food for your dolphin. If you choose to adopt from a local zoo or aquarium, you can also go and visit your dolphin in the flesh.

Research adoption to see what it entails. Look up dolphin adoption to get a better idea of how your contribution can help. Adoption is generally conducted through wildlife organizations who use the donations to conduct research and fund programs to protect animals. Adoption usually includes updates about your dolphin, by mail or email. You can also adopt a dolphin as a gift for a friend or loved one. Choose an organization for your adoption. It is important to choose a reputable organization to go through to adopt a dolphin; try researching wildlife organizations to get a sense of what some of the more well-established groups are. Credible conservation groups and fundraising organizations will have a clear mission statement, state exactly how your contribution will be used, and offer proof that your contribution is tax deductible. Be sure to avoid any websites that seems suspicious or have multiple pop-up windows; these are not likely to belong to legitimate organizations. Some trusted organizations offering dolphin adoption include: The World Wildlife Fund The Pacific Whale foundation The Oceanic Society Whale and Dolphin Conservation (WDC) Dolphin Communication Project Choose an electronic adoption kit. Some organizations offer electronic kits when you adopt a dolphin, as opposed to print version kits. These packages may include material sent to you via email, video links, and photobook PDF downloads. You may also be provided with biographical information about your adopted dolphin in electronic format. Updates on your dolphin may be available via online field reports or social media. Choose a print format adoption kit. Most organizations offer print format adoption kits, which will be mailed to you. These packages may include an adoption certificate, a book or pamphlet with information about your dolphin, photographs of your dolphin, maps, or magazines. Some organizations also offer plush toys, tote bags, bumper stickers, or collector cards with the adoption. Research various establishments. You can run a Google search on different zoos and aquariums - not necessarily in your city but anywhere in the world - to see which have a clean record and treat their animals with care and respect, as much as a zoo or aquarium environment allows. If you feel that the dolphins at a zoo or aquarium are not being cared for properly, look for other options or adopt from a recognized wildlife organization instead. If you live near a zoo or aquarium that offers dolphin adoption, you can also ask employees at the zoo or aquarium whether: the dolphins are healthy the water condition is good the dolphins are being fed well the tanks are large enough to keep the dolphins happy and active Look at dolphin adoption packages. Many zoos and aquariums offer adoption of their animals as a way to offset the costs of food and veterinary bills. Some packages may include an adoption certificate, photo, and/or a plush toy. Prices for these packages range widely and are generally tax-deductible. Animals at zoos or aquariums might have more than one adoptive "parent" due to the popularity of the species. Sign up for an adoption package. You can do this by visiting the zoo in person or by looking at the establishment's website. Usually, you'll be asked to choose the dolphin you like the most out of several, select a package, and then make a payment. Visit your animal periodically to check in after adoption. If you adopt a dolphin from a local zoo or aquarium, you have the bonus of being able to visit them in person whenever you want to check up on them. Seeing the subject of your donation up close can be rewarding; people tend to respond more to charitable causes that have one, clearly identifiable recipient. You can also introduce family and friends to your sponsored dolphin this way. Read up on dolphins in captivity before adopting. There is ample research to suggest that being in captivity is detrimental for dolphins and other cetaceans. Dolphins are highly intelligent, emotional creatures who live in complex societies in the wild, and travel and move regularly; in theory, no tank is big enough to accommodate dolphins, who swim up to 100 miles a day in the wild. Keep in mind that when adopting a dolphin from a zoo or aquarium, you may be inadvertently supporting animal captivity. Be comfortable with what your donation will be used for, be it research, education, or maintenance, and don't forget to check that the zoo or aquarium you're adopting from is legitimate, well-established, and treats its animals with as much dignity as possible.

Research adoption to see what it entails. Choose an organization for your adoption. Choose an electronic adoption kit. Choose a print format adoption kit. Research various establishments. Look at dolphin adoption packages. Sign up for an adoption package. Visit your animal periodically to check in after adoption. Read up on dolphins in captivity before adopting.

https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-a-Katydid-Insect

How to Take Care of a Katydid Insect

To take care of a katydid insect, keep it in a large, ventilated enclosure, and line the bottom of the enclosure with potting earth, pebbles, or tissue paper. You should also put a 15-25 watt light bulb above the enclosure to keep your katydid warm enough. Also, spray the inside of the tank with water every day since katydids thrive in a moist climate. To feed your katydid, give it 1-2 leaves or stems every day.

Get a ventilated tank that is at least 30 by 30 by 30 cm (12 by 12 by 12 in) big. This will be a big enough tank to house 1-2 katydids, although there's no harm in using a bigger tank than this! Make sure at least 1 of the sides of the tank is made of mesh or gauze, to ensure that the tank is adequately ventilated. Keeping the tank well ventilated is very important for keeping your katydid from suffocating! Go to any pet store that sells supplies for keeping insects to find a suitable tank for your katydid. You can also keep your katydid in an enclosure made entirely of mesh or gauze, if you prefer that over glass. Use mesh or netting for the roof of the tank; your katydid will hang from this material when it's molting. Cover the floor of the tank with 5 to 8 centimetres (2.0 to 3.1 in) of substrate. Because you'll have to keep the inside of the tank pretty moist, use a moisture-absorbing substrate for best results. Examples of this type of substrate include potting earth, small pebbles, or even tissue paper. You can buy this type of substrate at any pet supplies store or even some home improvement stores. Keep the temperature of the tank between 25 and 30 °C (77 and 86 °F). The best way to do this is to use a light bulb, since your katydid will also need a source of light other than direct sunlight. Place the light in the top of the tank and use a bulb wattage between 15 and 25 watts for best results. You can monitor the internal temperature of the tank by placing a thermometer along the side of it. Avoid using an energy-saving bulb or fluorescent light tube, since these won't provide the right amount of heat for your katydid. Minimize the amount of decor you put in the tank to maximize space. Your katydid doesn't need much in the way of decor, since the leaves you feed it will essentially act as decoration. However, your insect will need lots of vertical space in order to be able to molt, so use a “less is more” approach when it comes to decorating your tank. If you absolutely want to decorate your tank, consider opting for just a small branch and a couple of leaves to simulate the katydid's natural habitat. Spray the inside of the tank with water every day to keep it moist. Katydids need a warm, moist climate to live in. Spray enough water into the tank so that the substrate is kept moist every day. If you notice that it's difficult to keep the substrate moist, you may have TOO much ventilation in the tank. If this is the case, you'll have to reduce the amount of mesh siding you have to keep some of that moisture in the tank. Clean out the tank once a week to prevent mold and fungi buildup. Place your katydid in a separate holding tank, similar in structure to your normal tank, while you're cleaning. Remove all of the dirty substrate from the tank, as well as any droppings and old leaves on the ground, then add new, clean substrate to the floor. This is especially important not only because your katydid will produce a lot of droppings, but also because the moist environment of the tank is very amenable to mold buildup. Feed your katydid tree leaves and stems once a day. All katydid species will eat leaves and stems, while some will also eat fruit, flowers, and small insects. If you're not sure what species your katydid is, just feed it a simple diet of 1 or 2 leaves of oak, bramble, hazel, hypericum, or butterfly bush every day. If you want to see if your katydid will eat an insect, try leaving a few aphids in its tank. If it eats insects, it'll definitely eat these! If there's any food leftover from the previous day, remove it before you feed your katydid again. Stick to spraying the inside of the tank in order to water your katydid. Katydids get their daily water intake by drinking tiny droplets of water off of leaves, rather than drinking it from a bowl or cup. Luckily, when you spray the inside of the tank to keep it moist and humid, you're also providing your katydid with the water it needs to survive! Thus, you don't have to have an extra water bowl for the tank. In fact, if you have infant katydids in your tank, it's much safer to not have a water bowl in the tank at the same time, since the katydids could fall into it and drown. Be very careful when handling your katydid. Your katydid may or may not react well to being handled, but if you want to try it out, just be aware that they are very fragile creatures. They can also jump pretty far, so keep a close eye on your pet when you take it outside of the tank. Some katydids will also bite, but don't worry, their bites won't hurt that much! Keep at least 2 adult katydids in an ideal tank environment. As long as you have 1 male and 1 female katydid in your tank and you make sure the humidity, temperature, and food in the tank are all correct, your katydids will eventually breed by themselves. Keep them in a relatively large tank as well, especially if you're planning to create more katydids. Instead of a 30 by 30 by 30 cm (12 by 12 by 12 in), consider going with a 45 by 45 by 45 cm (18 by 18 by 18 in) or even 60 by 60 by 60 cm (24 by 24 by 24 in) tank. Make sure there’s a plant with a thick stem in the tank. Female katydids, especially field katydids, like to chew big holes in plant stems and deposit their eggs inside. The type of plant doesn't overly matter, so long as it has a relatively thick stem. Try and use a stem that's thicker than the body of your katydid, if possible. Some species of katydid will bury their eggs in the substrate rather than deposit them in a plant stem. If you're not sure what species you have, go ahead and put a plant stem in the tank just in case. Maintain 80% humidity levels in the tank for 60 days. Katydid eggs take 45 to 60 days to hatch, but they require a very humid environment in order to remain healthy. Make sure you're spraying the inside of the tank at least once a day and consider spraying it twice on occasion in order to ensure the eggs have enough moisture to last 2 months. Use a terrarium hygrometer attached to the side of the tank to measure its internal humidity levels. You can buy this type of hygrometer online or at any pet store that sells supplies related to keeping insects. You should also continue to maintain a very humid environment in the tank after the eggs hatch, since young katydids also require a lot of moisture in order to be able to molt properly.

Get a ventilated tank that is at least 30 by 30 by 30 cm (12 by 12 by 12 in) big. Cover the floor of the tank with 5 to 8 centimetres (2.0 to 3.1 in) of substrate. Keep the temperature of the tank between 25 and 30 °C (77 and 86 °F). Minimize the amount of decor you put in the tank to maximize space. Spray the inside of the tank with water every day to keep it moist. Clean out the tank once a week to prevent mold and fungi buildup. Feed your katydid tree leaves and stems once a day. Stick to spraying the inside of the tank in order to water your katydid. Be very careful when handling your katydid. Keep at least 2 adult katydids in an ideal tank environment. Make sure there’s a plant with a thick stem in the tank. Maintain 80% humidity levels in the tank for 60 days.

https://www.wikihow.com/Replace-a-Toilet-Flapper

How to Replace a Toilet Flapper

To replace a toilet flapper, start by turning off the water supply and flushing the toilet to empty the tank so that you can access the flapper. Next, unclip the lift chain from the flapper and remove the flapper by pulling it free from the pegs. After that, you'll need to connect the new flapper by sliding the holes on the rubber seal over the pegs and reattaching the lift chain. Finally, adjust the chain to the right length, turn the water back on, and flush the toilet to make sure it flushes immediately and refills within 45 seconds.

Turn off the water to your toilet. Before you can replace a faulty flush valve seal, you'll need to stop the flow of water to the tank. Locate the shutoff valve on the lower part of the wall behind or beside the toilet. Turn the dial clockwise until it stops moving. If the valve does not turn by hand, spray it with a lubricant like WD-40 and let it sit for 5 minutes. Twist the valve back and forth to loosen it. Avoid using a pair of pliers since this could damage the valve and cause a water leak. You may still hear a trickling sound after shutting off the water. This is the stored water escaping from the tank, not fresh water being pumped in. If you're unable to find a shutoff valve in your bathroom, you may have to disable the water to the house. Empty the tank. Lift off the toilet tank lid and set it aside carefully. Then, flush the toilet. This will drain the water in the tank, allowing you to work unobstructed. Note the movement of the flapper when you flush the toilet. It will tell you whether the problem is a weak seal or something more innocuous, like a chain that's pulled too tight. A functioning flapper will raise and lower smoothly and settle back over the flush valve without creating gaps. Disconnect the bad flapper valve. The flapper is a large semicircular sheet of rubber that sits over the hole that releases the water from the tank into the toilet. It connects in 2 places—the tiny pegs on either side of the tubular overflow valve and a chain attached to the toilet handle lever. Unclip the chain first, then pull the edges of the flapper free from the pegs to remove it. Be careful when taking out the flapper. Prolonged exposure to hard water can make the submerged components brittle, which could cause them to break into pieces if you handle them too roughly. Most new flappers will come with a chain attached. If your new one has a chain, disconnect the existing chain from the flush lever. Purchase a new flush valve seal. Bring the old flapper with you when shopping for a new one. That way, you'll be able to compare different styles to find one with the appropriate specifications. Make sure the new flapper is the right size to cover your toilet's flush valve and uses the same points of connection. Toilet flappers come in different sizes, designs, and materials. Your best bet for a home bathroom is a standard rubber flapper, which offers a little bit of flex to provide a secure seal. If you have any questions regarding toilet flappers or their function, don't hesitate to ask one of the home improvement specialists on staff for assistance. Connect the new flapper to the flush valve. Slide the holes on either side of the rubber seal over the pegs on the valve, then clip the lift chain to the lower end of the toilet handle lever. Lower the flapper to confirm that it sits squarely over the flush valve and provides total coverage. Double check that each of the connection sites is secure so the flapper doesn't accidentally come loose after a few flushes. Use a fine-grit sandpaper to clean the valve seal so your new flapper is watertight. Adjust the chain length. There should be enough tension in the chain connecting the flapper to the toilet handle lever to open the valve easily when the toilet is flushed, but not so much that it pulls or weakens the seal. Give the handle a push and see how the action feels. You may need to change the position of the chain a few times to get a perfect flush. A good rule of thumb is that the ring on the end of the lift chain should be touching or hovering just above the bottom of the tank. Keep in mind that more force will be required to depress the handle when the tank is full. Right now, you're just feeling for a comfortable range of motion. Don't let the chain have enough slack where it would be pulled under the flapper when you flush the toilet. Test out the new flapper. Turn the water shutoff valve counterclockwise to restore the water and refill the tank. Wait a few moments for the water level to rise well above the flush valve, then press the handle. The toilet should flush forcefully and immediately, and refill within about 30-45 seconds. Listen for the faint sound of running water between flushes to know whether the new flapper did the trick. Don't forget to replace the toilet tank lid when you're satisfied with the toilet's performance. Replace your toilet flapper at the first sign of failure. In order to avoid throwing away money, it's a good idea to stop running toilets and resolve other water flow issues as soon as you notice them. More often than not, there will be a simple and inexpensive fix, so there's really no reason not to take care of it right away. You'll be glad you did when you get your next utility bill. Some tell-tale signs of a failing flapper are a soft hissing sound (this is the tank refilling itself constantly), low flushing power, or rippling water in the bowl. You may also have to jiggle the handle to get the toilet to stop running after flushing. Be prepared to change out your toilet flapper every 2-3 years, or more frequently as needed. Take a look at the valve seal seat. Sometimes, it's not the flapper itself that's to blame for a running toilet, but the circular lip on which it sits. If your toilet's valve seal seat appears to be worn, split, or peeling, it may be necessary to put in a new one along with the flapper. A seat will help the flapper form a tighter seal and prevent unnecessary water loss. Look for a valve seal repair kit at your local home improvement store. One of these kits will contain a flexible replacement seat that can fit over the old one using waterproof adhesive. Don't underestimate the importance of a working valve seal seat. Without it, your new flapper won't work properly, and your toilet will still be prone to leaks. Hire a professional for difficult repairs. If you've done everything you know to do to correct a slow leak and you're still at a loss as to the cause, call in a plumber. They're specially trained to diagnose and deal with water-related complications that prove baffling to the average homeowner. It shouldn't cost more than about $50 to retain the services of a qualified plumber, even if they end up having to install a brand new flush valve. A thorough inspection eye may even turn up more serious problems that you wouldn't have caught yourself. Whatever you pay out of pocket will be worth it if it means dodging more extensive repairs plumbing repairs later on.

Turn off the water to your toilet. Empty the tank. Disconnect the bad flapper valve. Purchase a new flush valve seal. Connect the new flapper to the flush valve. Adjust the chain length. Test out the new flapper. Replace your toilet flapper at the first sign of failure. Take a look at the valve seal seat. Hire a professional for difficult repairs.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Money-Playing-Video-Games

How to Make Money Playing Video Games

To make money playing video games, start a blog or YouTube channel where you post reviews of video games. Then, share your reviews with family and friends, and use hashtags when you post to get more people to follow you. Additionally, include ads on your YouTube channel or use an affiliate program, such as Google AdSense, to make a profit from your reviews. Once you have a few hundred followers, reach out to video game companies and ask to become a reviewer for them.

Create a catchy name. Whether you are creating a blog or using YouTube, you need to have an attention-grabbing moniker. This can be something simple, such as your given name and “video game reviews” after your name, or you can build a brand from the ground up, creating an entirely new name, website graphics, and even a theme song or jingle. Set up an online presence. You can use YouTube or start a blog to create an online presence, but having some sort of venue online with which to provide your review is essential. If you start a YouTube channel, make sure you have a decent video camera and a place to set up. Some people make great money via YouTube, and have even gone so far as to make it their full-time job. This is rare, and can take years of hard work, so don't expect a quick payout. Begin reviewing games. Start reviewing new games; most people will not be interested in older ones. When a new game comes out, you can either buy it or rent it, though buying it will make making a profit difficult. When you review, touch on what makes the game great, what it is lacking in, and what type of audience it is best suited for. Know your audience. If you are targeting videogame players directly, speak or write as though you are talking to players. If you are targeting parents of videogame players, use language that explains games clearly to a novice. Share your reviews with family and friends. Encourage them to share with others if they like what they see. The best way to build your business is to get your name out there. Even if you feel embarrassed or silly, tell your family and friends what you are doing, and ask them to please share your website or channel if they like what they see. This is a simple, easy way to garner more interest in your site. Use hashtags to your advantage. In social media, hashtags are quite useful in linking your name to the names of others who are doing similar work. Whether you are using Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter to talk about your new venture, make sure you are using hashtags. Use ads to your advantage.YouTube videos have the option of including ads, which can help you start out in making money, while blogs have the option of using affiliate links and programs such as Google AdSense. Although you might hope for sponsorships in the future, these programs are a great way to start out making a little bit of cash. Reach out to video game companies and offer to review games. Once you have established your presence online (think at least a few hundred followers and 6 months of consistent posting), reach out to various video game companies and offer your services as a reviewer. While you might not hear back from large-scale companies, smaller or up-and-coming companies may be just as eager to get their name out as you are. When reaching out to companies, use formal language, and always be polite. Give them links to your site or channel, and explain how many pageviews or video views you receive on a monthly basis. These numbers are important in determining how effective you would be as a means of advertisement. Test video games for video game companies. These jobs often don't pay much, but provide you with the joy of playing video games for money. As a test player, you will be responsible for providing a company feedback about its game, and your input could determine whether the game is released, scrapped, or held back for improvements and debugging. Test playing is an excellent choice for those who want to make money for simply playing the game, and nothing else. Play using Twitch or YouTube Gaming. Twitch and YouTube Gaming are online game-playing mediums in which others watch you and interact with you in real-time during your gameplay. Although these do not make you money out of the gate, you can make money down the road by building a following and making yourself known to video game companies and even non-videogame companies. Build a following. Using Twitch or other online gaming communities, you can build a following, which is a vital step in making money for playing games, as potential sponsors want to see that their products and company will be getting out to the maximum number of people possible. Seek out or accept sponsorships. Once you have build a following, you can start seeking (or receiving) sponsorship offers from major video game companies, which may simply provide you with new games and merchandise, or which may actually pay you a monthly amount to continue your online persona and gameplay. Create an online presence. As with reviews, you'll need to create an online presence. You can start a blog using a template such as WordPress, or you can create an entirely new website you've designed yourself. If you choose to use videos in your gameplay tutorials, a YouTube or Vimeo account will be a necessity, as well. Give detailed accounts. A tutorial should be quite detailed and involved; after all, people are seeking out help. Provide step-by-step accounts of certain difficult spots, or provide a detailed overview of the game as a whole, taking photos or videos of areas of the game that are tricky or particularly interesting. Record your gameplay. If you are able, record your gameplay to give your readers/viewers a visual account of what the game should look like. If you do not want to record, you can take pictures to illustrate your points and give visual learners a better means of understanding. Advertise your service. Use social media to promote your online presence. Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are all great ways to promote yourself. Use hashtags and regular posting habits to keep your name and brand relevant. If you have friends who are active in online gaming or tutorial sites, ask them to share your information, as well. Use AdSense on your written site. If you choose to go the route of a site versus a YouTube or Vimeo channel, make use of Google AdSense, a program that uses your online space to advertise with predetermined companies. Typically, AdSense shows up as ads in the sidebar, or ads across the bottom of the webpage that can then be clicked out of. Use discretion when choosing online ads for your site. Although most people do not mind a few ads, being overwhelmed by ads on both sidebars, as well as pop-ups and mid-text ads may discourage viewers from visiting your site in the future. If your site seems cluttered or difficult to read, scale down on your ads. Use video advertisements on YouTube. If you prefer to use YouTube exclusively to get your content out, enroll in YouTube advertisements. Although the amount of money you make will be directly tied to the number of views you receive, this is a great start in making money playing video games. Hone your skills. Before you enter a tournament, you should make sure you are skilled at whatever game you're entering to play. If you played the game once, but are largely unfamiliar with all of its levels, this is not a great game to play competitively. Instead, seek out tournaments that take advantage of games you are extremely familiar with. Know your skill level. Many tournaments will have different levels to enter. If this is the case, be realistic with your own skill level and accurately identify whether you are an amateur, possess mid-level skills, or are practically a professional in your ability to maneuver through the game in question. If you are a lower-level user, but want to improve, spend a few weeks working on the game. Start in small tournaments. If you are entirely new to the world of video game tournaments, start out in small ones, with lower payouts. Once you have gotten your feet wet and become familiar with how they work, you can move on to larger tournaments with higher payouts and more competition. Only spend what you can afford. Some tournaments will require an entrance fee, while others will require travel. If you cannot afford to travel, or you cannot afford the entrance fee, resist the temptation to enter, anyway. Although you would certainly make your money back if you won, if you do not win, you are out money you could not spare in the first place. Make use of your winnings. Tournaments range widely in terms of payout. Some tournaments do not pay at all, some pay in merchandise, some pay as little as $10, and some pay as much as several thousand dollars. Do your research before entering a tournament and don't discount those that only provide merchandise as a reward; this merchandise can then be sold for profit and may make you even more than if you'd entered a cash-paying tournament.

Create a catchy name. Set up an online presence. Begin reviewing games. Share your reviews with family and friends. Use hashtags to your advantage. Use ads to your advantage.YouTube videos have the option of including ads, which can help you start out in making money, while blogs have the option of using affiliate links and programs such as Google AdSense. Reach out to video game companies and offer to review games. Test video games for video game companies. Play using Twitch or YouTube Gaming. Build a following. Seek out or accept sponsorships. Create an online presence. Give detailed accounts. Record your gameplay. Advertise your service. Use AdSense on your written site. Use video advertisements on YouTube. Hone your skills. Know your skill level. Start in small tournaments. Only spend what you can afford. Make use of your winnings.

https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-Diabetes-in-Hamsters

How to Deal With Diabetes in Hamsters

To deal with diabetes in hamsters, start by feeding your hamster a diet of alfalfa, timothy hay, and vegetables, like broccoli, cucumber, cauliflower, and spinach. Aim for meals that consist of 10-15% protein and 50% fiber. Next, make sure your hamster's cage provides plenty of space for it to move around and install an exercise wheel so it can get more physical activity. It's also important to avoid giving your hamster sugary treats, like fresh fruit, processed treats, and carrots.

Switch to low sugar foods. If your hamster has diabetes, it will be difficult for them to break down and convert sugar to energy. As a result, you should read the ingredients on your current hamster feed and check for added sugars, such as molasses, sugar cane, corn syrup, or fructose. If the food contains these sugars, you should change their food to a low sugar feed. There is no special diabetic food mix on the market for hamsters, but you can ask your vet to recommend a food mix for your diabetic hamster. Avoid giving sugary treats. Sugary treats, such as fresh fruits, processed treats, and even carrots are difficult for a diabetic hamster to break down. Instead, try giving it washed and cut celery, broccoli, or spinach as a treat. Only give your hamster one treat per day and make sure to remove the treat from the cage if it is not consumed within a day. Fresh vegetables may rot. Feed your hamster a high protein and high fiber diet. Diabetic hamsters should eat a diet made up of 10-15% protein and 50% fiber. You can supplement their regular hamster feed by giving them sources of protein, such as plain tofu, cooked chicken and turkey, or scrambled egg. These should be given in small amounts daily. Some fiber sources include: Alfalfa. Timothy hay. Vegetables such as broccoli, cucumber, cauliflower, and spinach. Give your hamster complex carbs. Carbohydrates should be reduced but not completely removed from their diet. When giving hamsters carbohydrates, always choose complex carbs, such as oat bran, whole-grain pasta, and brown rice. Most hamster food mixes will contain an adequate amount of carbohydrates, ask your vet if you should supplement the food with complex carbs. Ensure your hamster exercises regularly. Regular exercise can also help to prevent and manage diabetes in hamsters. Make sure that your hamster has lots of space to move around their cage. You should also give them access to a running wheel. This can delay the onset of diabetes in some hamsters. Make sure to purchase a running wheel that is plastic or mesh to reduce the chances of injury. If your hamster's back bends while running on the wheel, you need to get a larger wheel. Hamster balls can also be a great form of exercise if used correctly. Make sure the ball is clear and that the area is carpeted. You should always watch the hamster while using an exercise ball. Talk with your vet about treatment options. There are some medications that have been successful for treating diabetes in hamsters. Medical treatment of diabetes can be risky because the wrong dose could lead to serious health complications and even death. Ask your vet if there are any medical treatments that are suitable for your hamster's specific health needs. You should consider the cost associated with different types of treatment when making your decision. Try oral medications. Glipizide and Fenugreek are common oral medications for treating diabetes in hamsters. Both of these treatment options are administered orally and will need to be prescribed by a vet. To administer, follow the instructions provided by your vet. Glipizide tablets are usually ground up and mixed with water and then fed to the hamster. Fenugreek comes in tablets or powder that are crushed and brewed into a tea and then fed to the hamster. It can be difficult to control the dose. Keep in mind that there are possible complications associated with these oral medications, including comas. Talk to your vet about the risks before your hamster starts treatment. Use insulin injections. Insulin can be purchased over the counter, but you should speak with a vet about proper dosage and how to administer the injections. The injections will likely be given twice a day. However, your vet may need to adjust the dosage based on how your hamster responds. If you choose to give your hamster insulin, it will need to have its blood tested weekly to see how it is responding to the medication. Because hamsters are so small, it can be difficult to find the right insulin dosage to use. Talk to your vet about precautions you can take to avoid accidentally overdosing your hamster. Look for excessive drinking and urination. One of the first signs of diabetes in hamsters is excessive urination. For example, you may notice that the area of their cage used for urination is constantly wet. This excessive urination is also accompanied by excessive drinking, and you will likely be filling their water more frequently. This is a potential sign that your hamster has diabetes. Hamsters with diabetes will also eat more, but this can be challenging to notice because even healthy hamsters hoard food. Keep in mind that excessive drinking and urination could be a sign of a different health problem that isn't diabetes. Notice if your hamster loses weight quickly. Hamsters with diabetes, despite eating and drinking more than normal, will lose weight rapidly. Weigh your hamsters once a day if you suspect that they may have diabetes. If it has lost 10% or more of its body weight in a short period of time, it may have diabetes. Place your hamster on a kitchen scale at the same time each day in order to weigh it. Weight loss in your hamster could also be a sign of a different health issue other than diabetes. Check for yellow nails. The appearance of thick yellow nails is relatively easy to see and often indicates that your hamster has diabetes. That being said, yellow nails can be common in hamsters. Don't rely on this symptom alone when diagnosing a hamster with diabetes. Instead, test your hamster for diabetes if yellow nails develop. Test its urine for glucose. You can diagnose your hamster for diabetes at home using Keto-Diastix test strips. These can be purchased at your local pharmacy. Simply place your hamster in a small enclosure with no bedding. When the hamster urinates, dip the test strip in the urine. The strip will change colours. Compare the strip to the information on the package to see if your hamster has diabetes. It should not take longer than 20 minutes for a diabetic hamster to urinate. If your hamster does not urinate within 20 minutes, return it to its cage and try again later. Take your hamster to the vet. If your hamster tests positive for diabetes, you should take it to the vet to discuss treatment options. Your vet will likely ask you to change their diet and may suggest other medical options depending on the age and health of your hamster. If your hamster is showing signs of diabetes, but a urine test comes back negative, you should still seek medical attention. They may have another health issue that needs treatment.

Switch to low sugar foods. Avoid giving sugary treats. Feed your hamster a high protein and high fiber diet. Give your hamster complex carbs. Ensure your hamster exercises regularly. Talk with your vet about treatment options. Try oral medications. Use insulin injections. Look for excessive drinking and urination. Notice if your hamster loses weight quickly. Check for yellow nails. Test its urine for glucose. Take your hamster to the vet.

https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-a-Snake-Bite

How to Treat a Snake Bite

To treat a venomous snake bite, call emergency services and find help immediately. If you're able to, call the National Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222 for advice while you wait for medical assistance. Try to avoid moving the bitten area, and make sure you keep it below the level of your heart, which will slow down the spread of the venom. Never try to use a tourniquet on the wound or attempt to suck out the venom since it may actually make the problem worse.

Call emergency services or shout out for help. If you are alone but can move safely, go for help. Most snake bites aren't dangerous, but when you do get bitten by a venomous snake, getting medical care as soon as possible is imperative. First responders will know the types of snakes found in the area and will be best equipped for the most appropriate treatment. Either call paramedics or get to an emergency room right away. You will not necessarily be able to determine if a snake bite is from a venomous snake by just looking at the bite. It is best to get medical help right away, no matter what the bite looks like. Remain as calm as possible. Panic will increase your heart rate and if the snake is venomous, the increased heart rate will just spread the venom through your body faster. Try and stay as calm and quiet as possible. If you're able to, call the National Poison Control Center (1-800-222-1222) for advice while you wait. Take note of the snake's appearance. First responders and emergency physicians will need the description in order to determine if the snake was venomous. If possible, get a picture of the snake or at least have a fellow hiker also take a mental picture of the snake to verify what you've seen. Don't try to catch the snake-- snakes are very fast and unless you are an experienced snake catcher, they have the advantage. Don't walk toward the snake or spend a lot of time trying to get a better look at it if you are still in harm's way. This is not safe. Simply look at the snake quickly and then move away. Move away from the snake. You should immediately get out of the snake's range, so you don't get bitten a second time. Get to a safe spot a fair distance away from the site where the bite occurred. However, do not run away or move too far. Your heart will start pumping faster if you move too quickly, spreading the venom more quickly through your body. Move to a place where the snake is not likely to return. Find a flat boulder a bit above the path, a clearing, or another area without a lot of hiding places for snakes. Try to remain as still as possible once you have reached a safer area. Immobilize and support the area of the bite. Do not apply a tourniquet but do restrict movement in the bitten area. Also keep the area at or below the level of your heart. This will help make sure that if it was a venomous snake the spread of the venom is slowed down. Keeping the bitten part of you below the level of your heart slows down the flow of any affected blood towards the heart, which would then pump the venom throughout your body. If you can, fashion a splint to keep the area surrounding the bite from moving. Use sticks or boards and place them on either side of the bite area. Then tie a piece of cloth at the bottom, middle, and top of the boards to keep them in place. Remove clothing, jewelry, or constricting items. Bites from venomous snakes can cause rapid and severe swelling. Even a loose piece of clothing can become too tight as the bite area swells. Clean the wound as best as you can, but don’t flush it with water. Take a clean cloth soaked in water and clean the wound gently but as thoroughly as possible. When the wound is clean, cover it with a clean cloth. Wait for, or go for, medical help. The best you can do is find medical help as soon as possible. The good news is that once you have cleaned the wound and have removed any jewelry, if there is little or no swelling, the bite is less likely to be from a venomous snake. However, even if this is the case there is still a risk of infection or a serious reaction, including allergic reactions, so you still need medical attention as soon as possible. Avoid steps that will worsen your situation. There are a lot of myths about how to care for a snake bite and some of these myths could actually make your situation worse. Don't try to cut or suck the venom out. Cutting the wound could cause more problems and increases the risk of infection. Anyone sucking out venom may actually swallow some and be poisoned themselves. Don't use a tourniquet or use ice on the wound. Experts believe that a tourniquet could potentially restrict blood flow too much and ice can increase the damage to the wound. Don't drink any alcohol or caffeine-- this can increase your heart rate and spread any venom that may be there. Instead, stay hydrated with water. Understand the medical care you should receive. At the ER, you will be treated for swelling, pain and any symptoms of a venomous snake bite. These symptoms include nausea, dizziness, numbness and any difficulty breathing or swallowing. The ER will also observe you for drops in blood pressure, any signs of damage to the blood or nervous system, allergic reactions, and swelling. The treatment will depend on any symptoms you develop. If no symptoms develop, you may still be kept for a 24-hour observation period because in some cases it takes that long for symptoms to develop. If the snake that bit you is venomous, you may get treated with antivenin (aka antivenom or antivenene). This is a combination of antibodies made to counteract snake toxins and has been shown to be safe and effective in both adults and children. Depending on symptoms, you may get more than one dose. You will also likely be prescribed a broad-spectrum antibiotic to make sure the wound does not get infected. A tetanus shot may also be given. For very severe snake bites, surgery may be required. Follow recommendations for continued care of the bite. By the time you are released from the hospital, your main concern should be keeping the snake bite area cleaned and covered and following medical instructions for wound care. These instructions should include how often to change the dressing, how to clean the healing wound (usually warm water and soap), and how to recognize a possible infection. Signs of possible infection include swelling, tenderness, redness, drainage, and heat coming from the infected area, or a new fever. If you experience any of these symptoms at the site of the snake bite, call your physician as soon as possible. Stay calm and wait it out if you cannot reach medical care. If you're out in the wilderness, with no hope of paramedics getting there soon, the best you can do is get as comfortable as possible and wait for the venom to leave your system. In most cases, snakes don't inject enough venom for the bite to be fatal. Treat the individual symptoms that may occur, and most importantly, stay calm and move as little as possible. Fear of snakes and the anxiety that follows being bitten are often what leads to fatalities, since a pounding heart makes the venom spread more quickly. If you're out hiking and see other people, ask if they can call or go for help, or if they have a snake-bite kit of pump suction device. Stop the bleeding. Bites from non-venomous snakes are unlikely to be life threatening, but they still require first aid treatment to prevent infection. Treat a non-venomous snake bite like a puncture wound; the first step is to apply firm pressure to the wound with a sterile gauze or bandage, so you don't lose too much blood. Don't treat the bite as a non-venomous bite unless you're absolutely sure that the snake was not venomous. If there's any doubt, it's important to get medical attention right away. Clean the wound carefully. Wash it with clean water and soap for several minutes. Rinse the wound thoroughly with more water, then wash it again. Pat it dry with a sterile piece of gauze. Use an alcohol-soaked pad if one is available. Treat the wound with an antibiotic ointment and a bandage. Apply a thin coating of antibiotic ointment to the clean wound. Then bandage the wound. This will protect it and help to prevent infection. Seek medical attention. Your doctor will make sure that the bite is cleaned and cared for properly. Feel free to ask him or her if further medical care is needed, including whether or not you need a tetanus shot. Pay attention to the wound as it heals. Even non-venomous snake bites may lead to infection. Look for any signs of infection such as redness, streaking, swelling, drainage, or a fever. If you see any, return to your doctor to get it checked out. Drink plenty of fluids as you heal. It's important to stay properly hydrated as your body heals from the snakebite. In general, you should aim to drink about 2 liters of water per day. Learn about venomous snakes. Most snakes are not venomous, but all snakes can bite. The most common venomous snakes are cobras, copperheads, coral snakes, cottonmouths (water moccasins) and rattlesnakes. While most venomous snakes have a triangular shaped head, the only real way to know if a snake is venomous is to be able to identify it or locate the fang glands on a dead snake. Determine if you are in a region where venomous snakes live. Cobras are found in Asia and Africa. Copperheads are found in the southern and eastern portions of the US, and parts of Australia and Asia. Varieties of coral snakes can be found in the southern US, parts of India and SE Asia, China, and Taiwan. Cottonmouths, or water moccasins, are found in the Southeast US and rattlesnakes range from the southern parts of Canada and extend all the way down into Argentina. Certain areas of the world, such as Australia, have a higher concentration of highly venomous snakes than others. Remember that venomous snakes can and do live in cities as well as the wilderness, and exercise appropriate caution. Learn about snake bites. When a non-venomous snake bites, the biggest concern is infection and tissue swelling. When venomous snakes bite, in addition to tissue damage and infection, the concern is the effects of the snake venom. Most snakes will not bite unless they are disturbed or handled by people. Fangs in snakes can be fixed or folded back until the snake bites. Venomous snakes can have either type of fang, although snakes with fixed fangs, such as the coral snake, tend to affect the nervous system, while those with folded fangs, such as rattlesnakes, tend to affect blood cells. All types of snakes have substances that can cause tissue destruction-- if you get bitten by a snake, limiting this damage may be the most critical problem. Understand the behavior of snakes. Snakes are “cold-blooded,” meaning they get their body heat from their surroundings and the sun. Because of this, snakes and snake bites are much less common in cooler climates or colder seasons because the snakes are hibernating. Snakes and snake bites are more common the closer you get to the equator because the snakes found in these areas don't hibernate and are more active during the hotter days. Avoid contact with snakes. The best way to treat a snake bite is to avoid a snake bite. According to wilderness experts, here are the best ways to avoid snakes and their bites: Don't sleep or rest next to areas where snakes may be hiding. This includes brush, tall grass, big rocks, and trees. Don't poke your hands into rock crevices, hollow logs, heavy brush, or any place a snake may be waiting for its next meal. Look down as you walk through any brush or tall grass. Don't try to pick up any snake, dead or alive. Snakes have a reflex where they can bite for a minute or so after they are dead...strange but true! ALWAYS wear hiking boots to cover your ankles and keep your pants legs tucked into your boots. Make noise. Most snakes don't want to see you anymore than you want to see them! To ensure that you don't scare a snake, make sure they can hear you coming. Purchase a snakebite kit. If you are a frequent hiker or wilderness explorer, consider investing in a snakebite kit that includes a pump suction device. Do not use kits that include razor blades or suction bulbs.

Call emergency services or shout out for help. Take note of the snake's appearance. Move away from the snake. Immobilize and support the area of the bite. Remove clothing, jewelry, or constricting items. Clean the wound as best as you can, but don’t flush it with water. Wait for, or go for, medical help. Avoid steps that will worsen your situation. Understand the medical care you should receive. Follow recommendations for continued care of the bite. Stay calm and wait it out if you cannot reach medical care. Stop the bleeding. Clean the wound carefully. Treat the wound with an antibiotic ointment and a bandage. Seek medical attention. Pay attention to the wound as it heals. Drink plenty of fluids as you heal. Learn about venomous snakes. Determine if you are in a region where venomous snakes live. Learn about snake bites. Understand the behavior of snakes. Avoid contact with snakes. Purchase a snakebite kit.

https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Medical-Abstract

How to Write a Medical Abstract

The best way to start a medical abstract is to begin with one or two sentences of background about why you did the research. For example, you might write, “Livingston (2009) has demonstrated the efficacy of nucleotide reparation in E. Coli UBPs”. Once you've stated the background and inspiration for your research, you should state your own goals and hypotheses while emphasizing your objectivity as a researcher. In the next section of your abstract, provide an outline of your methods that answers the question, “How did you investigate the topic or problem?”. Though you should avoid over-describing your methods, make sure you include things like the research setting, sample size, design, variables, and interventions you made to manipulate the variables. Finally, you'll want to take 6 to 8 sentences to briefly summarize your findings using specific numbers and statistics.

Read a style guide. Review the information in the book AMA Manual of Style: Guide for Authors and Editors. This book will have detailed information on how to formulate an abstract that is constructed correctly. You can also access it online at http://www.amamanualofstyle.com/ Read other abstracts. Reading other medical abstracts will give you a sense of what kind of information they should have. Pay attention to tone, length, and structure of other medical abstracts, especially ones related to research in your field or abstracts published in the journal for which you are writing the abstract. Be sure you understand the research. Typically, you will write an abstract based on research that you conducted either alone or as part of a team. Be sure you are completely knowledgeable and comfortable with the larger project or paper that the medical abstract is summarizing. Read it a few times, and practice explaining it to others. If you are writing a medical abstract on behalf of someone else, consult them with any questions you may have about the research. Read the instructions. Every medical journal has specific guidelines for publication regarding article abstracts. If you're publishing an abstract for a conference presentation, contact the university or professional society for directions. Your abstract will probably need to stay within a certain word count, usually 100 – 400 words, so be as direct as possible in your writing. Write the abstract in a timely manner. Typically, the shorter the abstract, the more difficult it is to write. Cramming meaningful text about a large medical study or research project into a limited space can be challenging, while talking at length about the many details of the project is easy. Give yourself a head start on your medical abstract by getting it down well in advance of its due date. If you have co-authors on the publication, have them look over a draft of the abstract before submitting it. If you don't have co-authors, submit a draft of the abstract to a peer in your field of research, or a trusted mentor knowledgeable about the abstract submission and publication process. Explain why you began the research. This section should explain in a sentence or two what inspired the research. What problems remained unsolved by previous research? Demonstrate why the question needs to be answered, and how it has not been answered, or has been only inadequately answered in the past. For instance, you might write, “Livingston (2009) has demonstrated the efficacy of nucleotide reparation in E. Coli UBPs.” State your project’s goals and expectations. After stating the background or inspiration to the research, state your own research goals and hypotheses. This emphasizes your honesty and objectivity as a researcher up front. Be direct and succinct when stating your goals and hypotheses. For instance, you might write, “Our hypothesis was that medication X was superior in treating epilepsy than medication Y.” Some medical abstracts do not require a background section. In an abstract without a background section, you will start the body of your abstract with information on the goals and expectations of your research. Outline your methods. This section basically answers the question, “How did you investigate the topic or problem?” Structured medical abstracts provide a specific section where methodology can be explored in detail over five or six sentences. Be careful not to over-describe. If you utilized a common procedure or technique, simply say that you used it, do not go into great depth about the technique or procedure itself. There are several areas related to your methods that you should address, including: Setting — Where did you conduct your research? Sample size —How many individuals participated in the research? How were they selected? This includes animal populations as well. Design — How were measurements and statistics recorded? Variables — What were the specific variables you looked at? How did you account for them? Interventions — How did you intervene to manipulate the variables? Summarize your findings. State the results of the research in six to eight brief sentences. Use specific numbers and statistics when reporting your findings. For instance, you might write, “Use of the medication resulted in a 30% decline in mortality rate.” Support all of the findings with hard data and, if appropriate, brief narratives about experiences or outcomes. Do not provide interpretation of your results in this section. Interpretation and analysis should be saved for the conclusion. Do not include tables or charts in your abstract. These should be included in the main body of the paper. Conclude the abstract. The conclusion should be composed of one or two sentences that help the reader understand the results and implications of your research. Connect the results of the study to the methods used to attain them, and to the original research question. This is a place to discuss whether your hypothesis was correct and whether the original purpose was achieved. You should basically be addressing the question, “Did your research and findings produce the answer you expected?” Summarize significant implications your research may have and recommend further research, if necessary. Choose a title. Your title should express the specific topic or methodology you're publishing about. Don't select a title that announces results. This may bias readers against your conclusions or discoveries. Instead, select a title that is objective and describes the problem your research explores. For instance, “New Corticosteroids Provide Asthma Relief” is a poor abstract title. “Corticosteroid Treatment in Asthmatic Patients,” on the other hand, is a good title. Don't use puns or jokes in your title. This may make your work seem trivial and unimportant. List the authors. Directly following the title, you should list the author or authors. Guidelines specific to the publication or organization will dictate how the authors' names should be listed. Some abstracts place the first name after the last (“Smith, John”) while others place the first and last names in their natural order (“John Smith”). Some abstracts expect you to list all authors in alphabetical order according to their last names. Other publications might expect you to list authors of increasing seniority toward the end of the author list. In this arrangement, the study's lead researcher or team mentor would be listed last. You might also need to list each author's credentials. For instance, you might need to write “John Smith MD” The title and authors should be listed at the top of the abstract, and before the main information of the abstract. Edit your abstract. When the medical abstract is completed, your peers will be looking for originality, scientific merit, clinical significance, and whether it is appropriate for the audience of educated medical staff professionals for which it is intended. Additionally, remember to proofread your work. Spelling errors, typos and grammatical mistakes will discredit your hard work and research. It might help to read the abstract out loud to yourself to make sure it sounds right before submitting it. Ask a colleague to read over it for you to ensure it is easy to understand and makes sense. After you've edited the abstract, submit it to the appropriate journal, professional society, or conference committee for approval.

Read a style guide. Read other abstracts. Be sure you understand the research. Read the instructions. Write the abstract in a timely manner. Explain why you began the research. State your project’s goals and expectations. Outline your methods. Summarize your findings. Conclude the abstract. Choose a title. List the authors. Edit your abstract.

https://www.wikihow.com/Repair-a-Chain-Link-Fence

How to Repair a Chain Link Fence

Repairing a chain-link fence is fairly straight-forward, and most fixes can be done on your own. To replace the top or bottom rail, you'll need to purchase a rail the same diameter as the old ones. Then, use pliers to remove the wire ties holding the old rail, put the new rail in place, then reconnect the rails with wire ties. If the new rail is too long, you can use a hacksaw to cut it to size. If you want to repair the chain mesh, you'll need to cut the wire ties with pliers, take out the old sheet, then secure a new sheet of mesh to the rails.

Measure the diameter of the old rails. Hold a tape measurement against the ends of the rails you wish to replace. Note the pipe's diameter so you can order properly-sized replacements. Purchase new rails from a home improvement store. Get rails the same size as your old ones. If part of your rail is loose or broken, you can bring it to the store so the employees can help you find a matching rail. The rail should have one tapered end and one wider end. Remove the wire ties on the fence’s top rail. The ties connect the top of the chain mesh to the rail. Put on a pair of gloves and use pliers to bend the ends of the ties. Pull the ties through the chain links to free the rail. Remove all the ties on the part of the rail you need to replace. Measure and mark the new rail for cutting. Get someone else to help you hold the old rail up to the new one. Slide the smaller, tapered end over the old rail, making sure the back end of the tapered section lines up with the damaged part you want to cut. Use a pencil to mark this on the old rail, then mark the rail's other end. Put on safety gear before cutting the rail. Get some protective polycarbonate eyeglasses to protect you from metal fragments when cutting the rail. Also put on a respirator mask to avoid breathing in metal dust. If you're going to use a reciprocal saw, it's recommended that you also wear hearing protection. Cut the damaged rail with a hacksaw. Find the line you marked earlier on the old rail. Saw into it to sever the rail at 1 end. Cut the rail off at the other end to free it. Slide the old rail off and set it aside. You may use a reciprocal saw, but have a friend hold the rail in place as you cut it. Unbolt the top rail from the corner post to give yourself more room. Go to the corner post on the side where you'll install the tapered end of the new rail. Use an adjustable wrench or ratchet wrench to remove the carriage bolts on the tension bands. Slide the rail towards the post to move it. Lay the new rail in place. First, slide the larger end of the rail onto the smaller end of the old rail. Then slide the tapered end of the new rail into the rail you unbolted. You may need to saw the new rail a little bit to get it to fit perfectly. Reconnect the rails and wire ties. Slide the rails back into place, then replace the carriage bolts to secure the corner bolt in place. Using pliers, loop the old wire ties around the rail and through the chain links to secure the mesh to the rail. The wire ties should be placed every 24 in (61 cm) along the top rail. If you need to replace the wire ties, purchase metal wire ties or nylon cable ties at a home improvement store. Repeat the process to replace the bottom rail. If your fence has a bottom rail, it is repaired the same way as the top rail. This time, loosen the corner post's lower tension band, then remove the wire ties from the bottom of the fence. Measure, cut, and install the new rail like you did before. Use pliers to detach the top rail’s wire ties. Locate the wire ties connecting the mesh to the top rail. Wearing gloves to protect your hands, use your pliers to pull the ties through the chain links. This detaches the mesh from the rails. Pull the mesh back from the rail, but don't remove it. If the wire ties aren't rusted or broken, set them aside and reuse them later. Remove the lower wire ties to free the damaged wires. First, find the top ends of the damaged wires. They'll be wrapped around the undamaged wires, so pull them apart with the pliers. Follow the strands all the way down to the ground and use the pliers to also remove the lower wire ties. Pull the wires up from the fence to remove them. Grab the top ends of the damaged wires. You should be able to remove them by pulling them up off the fence. If they're still stuck, continue unraveling the chain links by twisting the damaged wires around the undamaged ones. Cut the chain link fabric to size. If you're trying to fix a large area in the fence's meshing, purchase a roll of chain link fabric from a home improvement store. Measure out enough of the material to cover the gap. Untwist the wires at the end of the mesh section to remove it from the roll. If you're fixing a small area, you can use wires from an old fence Weave the new wires into the fence. Hold the new mesh in place by tying it to the bottom bar with wire ties. To connect it to existing mesh, get a wire from the old fence or mesh roll. At the bottom rail, wrap the loose strand around the old mesh. Run the wire diagonally upwards to wrap it around the new mesh. Continue doing this until reaching the top rail. The chain links should form a diamond pattern when you're finished. If you're not trying to patch up old meshing, you don't need to do this. Tie the wire to the top rail. At the rail, loop the ends of the wires over each other. Pull the ends down towards the rail. Finish by applying wire or cable ties every 24 in (61 cm) along the rail to bind the wires to it. If your fence has a bottom rail, also secure the bottom ends of the wires to it. Tighten the chain link mesh. To set the mesh in place, makes sure the mesh is unbolted from the tension bands on the posts. Attach a come-along tool to the 2 nearest posts. Crank the come-along tool until the chain links move no less than ⁄ 4  in (0.64 cm) when you push them together with your fingers. You can get a come-along tool at a hardware store.

Measure the diameter of the old rails. Purchase new rails from a home improvement store. Remove the wire ties on the fence’s top rail. Measure and mark the new rail for cutting. Put on safety gear before cutting the rail. Cut the damaged rail with a hacksaw. Unbolt the top rail from the corner post to give yourself more room. Lay the new rail in place. Reconnect the rails and wire ties. Repeat the process to replace the bottom rail. Use pliers to detach the top rail’s wire ties. Remove the lower wire ties to free the damaged wires. Pull the wires up from the fence to remove them. Cut the chain link fabric to size. Weave the new wires into the fence. Tie the wire to the top rail. Tighten the chain link mesh.

https://www.wikihow.com/Dry-Damp-Walls

How to Dry Damp Walls

To dry out small spots, place a fan in front of the damp area and turn it on high. For larger spots, install a heavy-duty dehumidifier in the room to suck the water vapor out. If you need to dry out a wall in an enclosed area, place moisture absorbent materials like dehumidifier packs near the damp spots. You can speed up the drying process by turning on your house's AC, opening up doors and windows near the damp area, and removing any fixtures hanging from your wall.

Locate and fix any water leaks near your wall. If a broken water pipe, faucet, or similar fixture led to the moisture damage in your wall, you'll need to fix the busted object before you can dry everything out. To deal with minor pipe damage, try resealing the pipe with epoxy putty. For major pipe damage and broken water appliances, you may need to strip out and replace the fixture entirely. For safety, hire a professional pipe repair service to deal with leaks located inside your wall. If you live in a housing complex, the water damage may have come from one of your neighbors. Drain out any standing water located in the wall. Depending on the severity of the water damage, your wall may contain a significant amount of standing water. To check, drill a small hole into the wall about 2 in (5.1 cm) off the ground and see if water comes out. If any does, drill small holes along the wall to drain the water. Keep your holes about 2 in (5.1 cm) off the ground and space them so that they are between 16 and 24 in (41 and 61 cm) apart. Before creating your holes, locate the studs inside your wall. For the best possible results, drill in the area between these spots. Remove extremely damaged areas of the wall to prevent long-term issues. You might need to strip out and replace some parts of your wall following instances of extreme water damage. If you fail to do so, the affected areas may develop dangerous forms of mildew or mold and, in some cases, will put the integrity and stability of the entire wall at risk. Contact a certified wall repair service if you spot: Black patches or streaks on drywall. Warped spots on wood walls. Cracks, blisters, or discolored areas on wood walls or drywall. Rusted or warped spots on metal stud walls. Chipped, bowed, or dissolved spots on brick or stone walls. Use room fans to dry out small damp spots. If the moisture only affected a small area of the wall, you may be able to dry it out using standard oscillating fans. To do so, place 1 or more fans in front of each damp spot and turn the fans to their highest setting. This will help clear out moist air while actively drying the damp spots. Turn on your fan's oscillation function if you need to target multiple areas of the wall with 1 fan. Purchase a dehumidifier to deal with large patches of moisture. Buy a heavy-duty dehumidifier that can process at least 50 imp pt (28,000 ml) of water each day. Using the manufacturer's included instructions, hook the device up in the same room as your damp wall. Make sure to close the room's doors and windows, then run the device. Heavy-duty dehumidifiers start at around $230 for a 50 pint unit. Look for dehumidifiers at home improvement and home appliance stores. Use desiccants to absorb moisture in closed areas. If you're trying to dry out a small, enclosed area like a closet, normal drying techniques may not work. Instead, try placing moisture absorbent materials, or desiccants, near the wall to suck out some of the excess water vapor. Common desiccants available at most hardware and grocery stores include: Chemical dehumidifier packs Clay cat litter Calcium chloride pellets Hire a contractor to deal with major water damage. If you can't dry out the wall yourself, search online or in your local yellow pages for a contractor specializing in Dehumidifying or Water Damage Restoration. On average, it costs between $3.75 and $7.00 to clean up 1 sq ft (0.093 m ) of moisture damaged wall. Avoid contractors who ask for payment in advance, especially if they live out of town, since there's a good chance they will try to overcharge or scam you. Turn on your house's A/C to reduce the humidity in the air. If the moisture in your wall is coming primarily from the humidity in the air, try turning on your house's central air-conditioning system. Warm air retains more moisture than cool air, so chilling your room will lower the humidity significantly and make it easier to dry out the wall. If you don't have a central A/C system, try purchasing a portable or window unit. Open up your house to increase air circulation. To help replace your house's old, moist air with fresh, dry air, try opening up any doors and windows located near the moisture damaged area. This will increase air circulation around the damp wall, speeding up the drying process. Do not open your windows and doors if you're using a dehumidifier. For the best results, use this method during the day while the sun is out. This method may not work if you live in an extremely humid area. Remove any wall coverings to increase your wall's ventilation. Wallpaper, wall fabric, and similar wall coverings will prevent air from reaching the wall itself, slowing down the drying process. In addition, soaked wall coverings can harbor dangerous mold and mildew, making them unsafe. Along with standard wall coverings, remove any other objects placed on your wall such as posters and floating shelves. Open up wall mounted cabinets to help them dry faster. If your damp wall houses any cabinets or similar furniture items, open up their doors and slide out their drawers. Not only will this help the cabinet dry faster, but it will speed up the overall drying process by increasing air circulation in the area.

Locate and fix any water leaks near your wall. Drain out any standing water located in the wall. Remove extremely damaged areas of the wall to prevent long-term issues. Use room fans to dry out small damp spots. Purchase a dehumidifier to deal with large patches of moisture. Use desiccants to absorb moisture in closed areas. Hire a contractor to deal with major water damage. Turn on your house's A/C to reduce the humidity in the air. Open up your house to increase air circulation. Remove any wall coverings to increase your wall's ventilation. Open up wall mounted cabinets to help them dry faster.

https://www.wikihow.com/Fix-Concrete-Cracks

How to Fix Concrete Cracks

To fix a crack in your concrete floor or driveway, you'll need a caulk-style, waterproof, liquid repair compound and a caulk gun, both of which you can buy online or at a home improvement store. In order to prepare the crack for the compound, use a wire brush to scrub away any loose concrete and debris. After scrubbing, sweep or vacuum away any remaining dust. Once the cracked area is clean and dry, run the compound along the crack using the caulk gun. When the crack is filled with compound, smooth over the surface with a putty knife to get rid of any excess compound. You should then let the compound cure for 4 to 6 hours.

Use a caulk-style, waterproof compound to repair hairline cracks. A caulk-style liquid concrete repair compound is affordable, easy to apply, and the best choice for hairline cracks smaller than ⁄ 4  in (0.64 cm) wide. Find a waterproof liquid concrete repair compound online or at a home improvement store. It'll hold up against the elements, help keep out water, and prevent the crack from reforming. Remove loose concrete and debris with a wire brush. Scrub the crack with a wire brush to prep the surface for repair. If necessary, chip away any thick deposits of concrete or old sealer with a small hammer and chisel. If the crack is outdoors, such as in your driveway, work during dry weather. A stretch of at least 1 to 2 dry days is ideal. Sweep, vacuum, or blow away any remaining dust. After scrubbing the cracked area, sweep away dust with a broom, or remove residue with a shop vac. You could also use a canister of compressed air to blow away fine surface debris. A power washer can loosen and blow away debris all in one go. However, you'll need to allow the cracked area to dry completely if you use one. Liquid concrete repair compounds can only be applied to dry surfaces. Run a bead of epoxy concrete repair compound along the crack. Load a cartridge of liquid concrete repair compound into the cradle of a caulk gun. Snip about ⁄ 8  in (0.32 cm) off of the tip, then run a continuous bead of compound along the crack. Make another pass with the caulk gun if the first bead didn't fill the entire crack. Smooth the caulked surface, then let it cure for 4 to 6 hours. Run a 1 ⁄ 2  in (3.8 cm) putty knife along the sealed crack to remove excess compound. Level the surface with the surrounding concrete, then allow the compound to cure for at least 4 to 6 hours, or as directed. After smoothing the compound, wipe your putty knife promptly with mineral spirits before the epoxy begins to set. In addition to repairing floors and driveways, you can also use this method to seal hairline cracks in walls. For wider wall cracks, on the other hand, your best option is an epoxy injection kit. Fix a 1⁄8 to 1⁄4 in (0.32 to 0.64 cm) wide crack with an epoxy injection kit. Purchase a concrete repair kit that includes a 2-part epoxy (an unmixed compound), caulk-type epoxy cartridges, and liquid concrete repair injection ports. The injection ports are small nozzles that help you fill the inside of the crack with sealer. You might need to purchase injection ports separately; you'll need 1 port for every 12 in (30 cm) of crack length. Scrub and clean the cracked area. Scrub away loose debris with a wire brush, and dislodge any chunks of mortar, concrete, or old filler with a hammer and chisel. Then vacuum up dust and debris or blow away residue with compressed air. If you're sealing a crack in a wall, lay down a tarp or drop cloth to protect your floors from drips of epoxy. Attach the plastic injection ports to the crack. Tap 10d finishing (headless) nails partway into the crack every 12 in (30 cm). Use separate sticks or putty knives to scoop the 2 epoxy parts onto a small scrap board. Mix the parts until you've achieved a uniform color, apply small dabs to the bottoms of the ports, and slide a port over each nail. The flat ends of the ports should be flush with the wall, and the nozzle ends should stick out. The nails align the injection ports with the crack. If you don't have finishing nails handy, use pins, toothpicks, or thin coffee stirrers. The 2 parts of the epoxy compound are stored in separate containers. After they're mixed, the parts cure and form a hard material. For this reason, scoop out the parts with separate sticks or putty knives to avoid contaminating one container with the contents of the other. Remove the nails after attaching the ports. After installing the ports, grasp the tip of the nail that emerges past the port's neck, and pull it from the wall. Make sure the ports stay glued in place, and try not to disturb them. Pull out all of the nails before injecting epoxy into the ports. Spread the 2-part epoxy over the crack and injection ports' bases. Mix a larger batch of the 2-part compound as directed. Use a putty knife or trowel to cover the crack and the ports' bases with a ⁄ 8  in (0.32 cm) layer of epoxy. Spread the compound 1 in (2.5 cm) on either side of the crack, and level it with the surrounding surface. Check your kit's instructions for right amount of compound for the crack's surface area. Mix until you've achieved a uniform gray color. Be sure to scoop out each part of the epoxy with separate sticks to avoid contaminating the containers. Let the surface patch cure for 4 to 6 hours, then fill the injection ports. After 4 to 6 hours, or when the surface compound is hard, place a caulk-style cartridge of epoxy in the cradle of a caulk gun. Snip ⁄ 8  in (0.32 cm) off of the tip, then insert it into the nozzle of the lowest injection port. Squeeze the trigger to inject the compound until epoxy starts oozing out of the port above the one you're filling. The epoxy injection port kit includes small plastic caps that fit into the ports' nozzles. After you've injected a port, insert a cap into its nozzle. Then repeat the process to inject the compound into each of the ports. Saw off the injection ports' necks after 5 days, then patch the cuts. Allow the injected compound to cure for 5 days, or according to the instructions. Then use a hacksaw to cut off the ports' nozzles where they meet the wall or floor. Patch the spots where you sawed off the necks to disguise your work and ensure the crack is watertight. Mix a small amount of 2-part epoxy, apply a dab over the cut spots with a putty knife, and level the epoxy with the surrounding surface. Fix a crack wider than 1⁄4 in (0.64 cm) with a vinyl concrete patcher. Find a vinyl concrete repair compound online and at home improvement and hardware stores. Vinyl concrete patcher works best on wider cracks in horizontal surfaces, so it's perfect for broken steps. Specific instructions may vary, so read your product's instructions carefully. Vinyl concrete repair compound will also work on wide, deep driveway and floor cracks. While you can use it to patch large cracks in a wall, you'd need to apply it in ⁄ 4 to ⁄ 2 in (0.64 to 1.27 cm) layers and allow each layer to cure before the next application. Dislodge loose concrete and remove debris. Prep the surface by scrubbing or chiseling away loose concrete or deposits of old filler. Additionally, use a wire brush to rough up any smooth surfaces within the crack. Then sweep, vacuum, or blow away any remaining dust and debris. If you have a pressure washer, feel free to use it to prep the cracked stairs since the compound you'll use in this method needs a damp surface. It shouldn't be completely soaked, so mop up any puddles with an old rag. Hose down the stairs to help the patching compound bond. Run the hose evenly over the steps to get the surface damp. Dampen it, but don't drench it; you don't want any standing water. The repair compound will stick better to a damp surface. Place a wood plank against the cracked step to create a frame. Using a circular saw, cut a wood plank to your steps' exact height. Cut the plank wide enough to span the cracked area, or use multiple planks. Place the plank against the broken step, then set a brick against the plank to keep it in place. The plank will act as a form and help ensure the repair compound takes the shape of the step. Mix a dry concrete vinyl patch with water, if necessary. Pre-mixed vinyl concrete patch products are ready to use right out of the container. While they're more convenient, they're typically more expensive than dry products, which you mix with water. If you go with a dry product, mix it with clean water in a separate bucket using the recommended mixing ratio. Mix the amount of repair compound recommended on the package for your repair's surface area. Use a trowel to apply the vinyl concrete patcher. Work some of the compound into the deepest part of the crack, and press it down with the trowel. Build on that layer until you've overfilled the crack. Then use the trowel to remove excess compound, smooth the surface, and level the compound with the rest of the step. Clean your tools with water immediately after applying the vinyl concrete patch. Remove the wood plank once the patch has set. Check the manufacturer's instructions for specific information about your product's set time. Set times may range from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the product, temperature, and moisture level. After the patch begins to harden, carefully remove the wood plank and the brick that held it steady. The patch hasn't cured, so take care not to disturb it. If necessary, gently run the trowel over the patch to level it with the surrounding concrete. Allow the patch to cure for 24 hours, or as directed. Typically, vinyl concrete repair compounds can support foot traffic after a day. Avoid rolling wheeled objects (such as a hand truck) over the patch for 3 days. The instructions may call for damp curing in hot, dry, or windy weather. If necessary, cover the patch with a clean sheet of plastic for 24 hours to damp cure it.

Use a caulk-style, waterproof compound to repair hairline cracks. Remove loose concrete and debris with a wire brush. Sweep, vacuum, or blow away any remaining dust. Run a bead of epoxy concrete repair compound along the crack. Smooth the caulked surface, then let it cure for 4 to 6 hours. Fix a 1⁄8 to 1⁄4 in (0.32 to 0.64 cm) wide crack with an epoxy injection kit. Scrub and clean the cracked area. Attach the plastic injection ports to the crack. Remove the nails after attaching the ports. Spread the 2-part epoxy over the crack and injection ports' bases. Let the surface patch cure for 4 to 6 hours, then fill the injection ports. Saw off the injection ports' necks after 5 days, then patch the cuts. Fix a crack wider than 1⁄4 in (0.64 cm) with a vinyl concrete patcher. Dislodge loose concrete and remove debris. Hose down the stairs to help the patching compound bond. Place a wood plank against the cracked step to create a frame. Mix a dry concrete vinyl patch with water, if necessary. Use a trowel to apply the vinyl concrete patcher. Remove the wood plank once the patch has set. Allow the patch to cure for 24 hours, or as directed.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Natural-Disinfectant

How to Make a Natural Disinfectant

To make your own natural disinfectant, try using hydrogen peroxide. Just pour 3% hydrogen peroxide into a spray bottle and spray it onto surfaces you want to disinfect. Let it sit for at least 1 minute before wiping it up with a clean cloth or paper towel. You can also use 70% rubbing alcohol as a disinfectant. Spray surfaces with the undiluted rubbing alcohol and let it sit for at least 30 seconds. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using ⅓ cup (80 mL) of bleach mixed with 1 gallon (3.75 L) of water to disinfect surfaces. Apply the diluted bleach to household surfaces and let it sit for 10 minutes. Never mix bleach with ammonia while you're disinfecting your home. Avoid using vinegar or tea tree oil as a natural disinfectant since they may not be effective against ceratin viruses.

Use basic undiluted rubbing alcohol. Choose a product that has at least 70% alcohol content, or else it won't effectively kill bacteria or viruses. Put the rubbing alcohol in a spray bottle so you easily apply it to any surface. This cleaning solution effectively works against coronavirus. Do not dilute your rubbing alcohol with water since it will not be strong enough to kill bacteria. Make an herbal rubbing alcohol spray. Pour 10-30 drops of thyme or another essential oil of your choice into an 8 fluid ounces (240 ml) glass spray bottle. Fill the rest of the spray bottle with rubbing alcohol that has at least 70% alcohol content. Shake the bottle to mix the ingredients and store it in a cupboard or pantry. This cleaner is also effective to use for the novel coronavirus. Use a vinegar and hydrogen peroxide combination. Vinegar and hydrogen peroxide work well to disinfect, but they should not be combined in a single container as they make a peracetic acid which can be hazardous. Instead, add undiluted white vinegar to one spray bottle and 3% hydrogen peroxide to another. You cannot use this cleaner to combat against coronavirus. To use, clean a surface, then spray it with one mixture, let it sit for about 5 minutes, then wipe with a clean cloth and spray with the other. Let it sit for 5 minutes and then wipe with another clean cloth. It does not matter if you start with the vinegar or with the rubbing alcohol. Make a basic vinegar-based spray. In a standard-sized glass spray bottle, add 1 part water, 1 part vinegar and 5-15 drops of 100% essential oil. You can use whichever essential oil whose scent you prefer, or customize the scent according to what room in your home you are cleaning. Vinegar-based disinfectants will not work to disinfect surfaces from viruses, including the novel coronavirus. Lemon essential oil is traditionally used to clean the kitchen, as the lemon scent can neutralize strong kitchen smells. Tea tree and eucalyptus oil are great for neutralizing bathroom odors. You may prefer to use milder smelling essential oils such as chamomile or vanilla in the parts of your houses where you are not worried about eliminating odors. Essential oils can sometimes react with plastic, which is why you should use a glass spray bottle. Make disinfectant wipes. If you want to make disinfectant wipes rather than a spray, follow the same recipe as if making a basic vinegar spray, but instead of putting the ingredients in a spray bottle, put them instead in a large glass jar and swirl them to combine. Cut 15-20 pieces of cloth into 10 in (25 cm) squares and place them inside the jar of cleaner. These wipes do not disinfect surfaces contaminated with coronavirus. Press down the cloths inside the glass jar so that they are submerged and can soak up the cleaner. Then place the lid on the top of the jar and store the wipes in a cupboard or pantry. To use the wipes, take out a wipe and wring it out to remove excess cleaner, then use it wipe surfaces clean. Make a vinegar and baking soda spray. In a clean bowl or bucket, add 4 cups (950 ml) of hot water, ⁄ 4 cup (59 ml) of white vinegar, and 2 tablespoons (28.8 g) of baking soda. Mix until the baking soda dissolves, then cut a lemon in half and squeeze both halves into the solution. Drop both rinds of the lemon into the mixture and wait for it to cool. Vinegar and baking soda are not effective against COVID-19. Once cooled, add 4 drops of lemon essential oil or the essential oil of your choice. Strain the mixture through a fine sieve to remove any lemon pulp, seeds or rind, then transfer the mixture into a spray bottle. Clean the surface. Disinfecting does not clean the surface or remove dirt or any other buildup, so it's important to thoroughly clean the surface before disinfecting. Clean with a natural or organic cleaner if you are looking to avoid harsh chemicals. Shake the spray. Shake the spray thoroughly to make sure that all the ingredients of the spray are mixed and that the spray will be effective. Spray the surface thoroughly with disinfectant spray. Hold the spray bottle of natural disinfectant an arm's length from the surface you need to disinfect and spray thoroughly. Spray all the surfaces you are disinfecting if you are disinfecting multiple surfaces. Let the spray sit for 10 minutes. Wait for about 10 minutes to let the disinfectant sit and more effectively attach to and eliminate germs. Wipe with a microfiber cloth. After 10 minutes, wipe the disinfected surface with a microfiber cloth. If you've cleaned multiple surfaces in a kitchen or bathroom, use a separate cloth for each surface to avoid contamination.

Use basic undiluted rubbing alcohol. Make an herbal rubbing alcohol spray. Use a vinegar and hydrogen peroxide combination. Make a basic vinegar-based spray. Make disinfectant wipes. Make a vinegar and baking soda spray. Clean the surface. Shake the spray. Spray the surface thoroughly with disinfectant spray. Let the spray sit for 10 minutes. Wipe with a microfiber cloth.

https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Steam-to-Relieve-Sinus-Pressure

How to Use Steam to Relieve Sinus Pressure

If you're struggling with sinus pain, you can use steam to help relieve some of the pressure. Fill a one-quart pot with water and bring it to a boil for 1-2 minutes, then remove it from the heat. Drape a large, clean towel over your head and place your head about a foot above the water. Stay like that for about 10 minutes, inhaling through your nose and exhaling through your mouth. Blow your nose during and after the treatment, and repeat every two hours until your sinus pressure is relieved.

Fill a one-quart pot with water. Boil the water on the stove for a minute or two or until it is steaming vigorously. Then remove the pot from the heat. Place the hot pot on a heat resistant mat on a table. Keep any children away from the pot while it is boiling and while it is steaming. Try to do a steaming treatment when there aren't any children around. Cover your head. Drape a large, clean cotton towel over your head and then place your head over the steaming pot. Close your eyes and keep your face at least 12 inches away from the water. You want the heat to enter your nose and throat, but you certainly don't want to damage or burn yourself. Breathe. Inhale through your nose and out through your mouth for five counts. Then reduce the inhales and exhales to two counts. Repeat for 10 minutes or for as long as the water is still steaming. Try to blow your nose during and after the treatment. Use this technique frequently. You can give yourself a steam every two hours or as often as your schedule permits. Consider steaming on the go. If you're busy and not able to boil a pot of water and sit over it, consider placing your face over the steam coming from a hot tea or bowl of soup when you're at work or out and about. The goal and effect is still the same, even if the source of steam is different! A humidifier can also be utilized for this method of relieving the sinuses. Fill a one-quart pot with water. Boil the water on the stove for a minute or two or until it is steaming vigorously. Then remove the pot from the heat. Add 1-2 drops of an essential oil. Start with 1 drop/quart of water. The following essential oils have either antibacterial, antifungal or antiseptic properties, meaning they can kill bacteria and other microorganisms that can infect the sinuses: Spearmint or peppermint - Both peppermint and spearmint contain menthol which has antiseptic and immune-boosting properties. Thyme, sage, and oregano - These herbs boost the immune system and have antibacterial properties. They also increase circulation of the blood by opening up blood vessels. Lavender - Lavender is known as a soothing herb that also has antibacterial properties. It will help you feel calm and relaxed and can relieve anxiety and depression. Black walnut oil - If you know you have a fungal sinus infection, add black walnut oil, which has antifungal, antimicrobial, and antiseptic properties. Tea tree oil - Tea tree oil has antiviral, antifungal, and antiseptic properties and has provided relief to some people suffering from sinus infections. Use dry herbs. If you don't have the above essential oils on hand, you can substitute ½ teaspoon of dried herb per quart of water. Once you add the herbs, boil for another minute, turn off the heat and move the pot to a comfortable area and begin steaming. Always test any herb for sensitivity. Each time you try a new herb, give yourself a test to make sure that you don't have any adverse reaction, such as sneezing or skin irritation. Make the concoction and steam your face with the new herb for about a minute. Then, take your face away from the steam for 10 minutes and wait. If you don't notice any irritation or other reaction, reheat the water and do the full steam treatment. Use a humidifier. To help improve the health of your sinuses, place a humidifier in your bedroom while you sleep. A humidifier produces steam and moist air, which will help clear out the nasal passages. When your nasal passages are blocked, you need to focus on keeping your nasal passages and sinuses moist. Although many people think that if you have have a runny nose, that dry air is the trick, dry air only further irritates the membranes in your nasal passage. Humidifiers are especially good during the wintertime because the air in most homes is very dry due to central heating. Even placing a hot water bottle near the ear may have a similar effect and help to draw out ear fluid. Take hot showers. Taking a long, hot shower works very similarly to the steam treatments described above. The hot water from the shower creates warm, moist air that is useful in clearing out blocked nasal passages and relieving sinus pressure. You also achieve a similar beneficial effect by placing a warm compress on your face to help open up your nasal passages and relieve any pressure you might be feeling in your sinuses. Drink fluids. Make sure that you drink lots of water (at least 8 full glasses a day) because this will thin out your mucus and can help prevent sinuses blockages, and thereby ease pressure. Thinned out mucus is much more likely to drain. Whenever you feel the beginnings of sinus pressure, make a concerted effort to stay hydrated. Keep your head elevated. When you go to sleep at night, place a couple of pillows beneath your head so that it is elevated. This will make breathing easier and keep the sinus pressure from building up.

Fill a one-quart pot with water. Cover your head. Breathe. Use this technique frequently. Consider steaming on the go. Fill a one-quart pot with water. Add 1-2 drops of an essential oil. Use dry herbs. Always test any herb for sensitivity. Use a humidifier. Take hot showers. Drink fluids. Keep your head elevated.

https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Actor

How to Become an Actor

To become an actor, practice reading and memorizing scripts so that you're used to learning lines for different roles. Perfect a variety of different accents, facial expressions, and emotions by practicing these skills often. If you want professional training, apply to attend university or a performing arts academy where you can study acting under successful mentors. For more performing experience, join a community theater, participate in workshops, or hire an acting coach to assist you.

Improve your memory so you can remember your lines. Start with small sections of the script, working on areas that have the same emotional charge to them. Perfect the line by repeating it and remembering a visual that is represented in the lines. Continue working on line memorization until you've perfected a whole scene. Exercise regularly and have a diet rich in omega-3s to help encourage memory improvement. Associate the line with any movements you would make during that scene. That way, you have mental cues to help guide you. Take frequent breaks. Every time you sit down to start memorization again, try to repeat the lines you were practicing where you left off. Work on projecting your voice. Since members of an audience may be sitting rows away, work on enunciating your words clearly and loudly. Stay away from cigarettes, alcohol, and anything that dehydrates your vocal cords and prevents you from performing. If you're acting for film, pay attention to the mood of the scene. You don't want to be loud and projecting while everyone else is sad. Projecting your voice is not the same as yelling. Breathe from your diaphragm to get the most depth and volume from your voice. Work on different dialects. Practice reading out loud in different voices and accents to have more versatility as an actor. If you can, watch videos of people speaking in the dialect you're practicing to see how their mouth moves when they articulate their words. If you can, talk to a native speaker of the dialect you're practicing so you can notice small details you may not have picked up before Hire a dialect coach if possible to help get you started. Channel your emotions into the role. Look over scripts and determine the main emotions of the scene. Whatever your character is supposed to be feeling at that moment, make sure your performance conveys it. For example, if your character is sad, you may be more soft-spoken and use fewer hand gestures than an overly-excited character. The emotional state of the scene also helps you remember your lines since you will associate the dialogue of the scene with what you're feeling. Work on your stage skills. Begin emoting with your entire face and using gestures so the audience will understand what your character is feeling. Work on other skills, like dancing, singing , and choreography to help round out your skills and make you more marketable. Stage combat classes can show you how to fight convincingly without getting injured. Knowing how to do it can open up a number of roles, in both plays and musicals. Take dance classes. The more skills you have, the more versatile you are and the more likely you are to land roles. Do something out of the ordinary. Any skills that most other performers don't have may pay off in the long-run, so keep up your hobbies. Study acting at a university or an arts academy. Though it's possible to act without a formal education, if you don't live in LA or New York, this is a pretty standard go-to option. You'll get exposure to the pros, learn about techniques, and get automatic chances to work on a stage. This will also help you build your resume, get exposure, and set up a network of colleagues and contacts. Your teachers will constantly be pushing you to do more, practically taking care of the motivation part for you. Acting school isn't required to be a professional actor. As long as you continue honing your craft and practicing, you could become the next star. Attend summer camps, acting workshops, or summer stock in your area. Some of these can be intensive enough that you'll learn months worth of material in a period of 2 to 3 weeks. You can be involved in multiple shows doing multiple roles and possibly even get stipends for your work. If you're stuck with a job or in school that keeps you from being able to attend these, make sure you're always reading and researching your craft. Go to shows, read up on theory, and expose yourself to new ideas and schools of thought. Contact your local theatre to see if they have any special events or seminars coming up that you could attend. If you're interested in stage theatre, summer stock is a great way to get started and it only runs during the summer. Plays, musicals, and even operas get put up in a matter of weeks all throughout the country and offer very valuable life experience. Find an audition near you in the spring to gear up for the season once school's out. Practice acting in community theater. Look at your local theatres to see what shows they're putting on. Winning a role in a community theater production will put you in contact with others who are polishing their craft just like you and garner you more experience. You'll also get a better idea of where you stand in relation to the competition. Consider working a role backstage if the shows they're playing don't interest you. Even if you're not looking to work for the stage or do straight plays or musicals, any experience in the field of drama looks good on your resume and will teach you things you didn't know. And you'll make friends, too! Hire an acting coach to help you with your technique. Look for a coach with a lot of industry experience and connections. Your coach can give you the personal attention you need to tackle your weak spots as well as polish what you do well. Always ask your connections for help on finding a coach. Talk to the staff and faculty at the school you attend or a theatre you've worked with. Someone will surely know somebody that can hook you up with what you're looking for. Find someone with experience in multiple fields so you can train and get pointers in a few different areas. Get web exposure through social media and acting websites. Put videos of your performances on YouTube or set up a page on Facebook and Twitter where fans can like and share your content, like photos of you in roles or your headshots. It's a long shot, but you never know who may randomly stumble upon your info and decide to hire you. After building a social media presence, make pages on acting-related sites like Actors Access to connect with the industry. Think of yourself as an entrepreneur. You are an artist, but you're also in the business for yourself. Use relevant hashtags in posts so you can get the maximum amount of exposure. Build a personal website with an easy to remember URL. Use your name as the web address if it's not already taken. Connect with acting communities on LinkedIn to find like-minded individuals. . Get headshots Have a professional take your photos so you can have the best looking headshots. Wear minimal amounts of makeup so directors looking through the photos will know what you look like if you were to walk in at that moment. Look directly into the camera as the pictures are taken. Ask around for any emerging photographers willing to take you on for a small fee, or even free. The great thing about headshots is that no set is required and nothing fancy-schmancy is necessary. Update your headshot every 2 or 3 years so casting directors will know what you currently look like. Network extensively. Be approachable and build your reputation as a professional. Be the first person to reach out to others so you show a genuine interest in the people close to you. Those in your network can connect you to available jobs and can provide you with valuable insights about your work and about the business. Avoid developing a bad reputation. If you get coined as lazy, difficult to work with, or just downright snooty, you're less likely to get gigs. Use websites like LinkedIn to connect with others in your area and field. Stay informed about the industry. Check out industry papers and websites like Variety, Backstage, Show Business Weekly, and the Hollywood Reporter.com to find out what are the current trends in the business. Constantly go to shows and work on side projects with friends and acquaintances to keep your creative flame burning. Stay up to date on emerging playwrights and directors, familiarize yourself with theories, and get yourself out there. Knowing in which direction "the scene" is going will help keep you ahead of the curve. Maybe you'll be the inspiration for the next big project! Learn an array of monologues. Look up 1-2 minute monologues online or purchase an acting book with monologues from famous pieces. Practice delivering them in your own voice and acting style. Monologues are often used to cast you in plays, movies and shows and they allow you to showcase your talents in a short period of time. Choose a monologue based on the type of actor you are. Don't read an old woman's monologue if you're a young man, or vice-versa. You'll want contrasting monologues. Even if you always play the funny man, have a couple serious monologues ready to whip out when requested. For singers, prepare 16-32 bars of a few songs and master them. Some auditions won't specify a genre while some will want you to show them something similar to what they're producing. Assemble your resume. List your acting-related strengths in a notebook and pick your most important skills. Add any productions that you've done at camps, workshops, universities and community theater. Make sure you only list your most recent productions so the casting director isn't overwhelmed by the amount of work on your resume. List any special abilities that you have (dancing, singing, dialects, combat, etc.) on your resume. Don't lie about what skills you have. Show up prepared. Show up on time, know your audition material, bring any materials that you need (including a pen or pencil), and look your best. You can't control what the director who's casting the project will think of you, but you can control how well you present yourself. Be talkative and confident with your talent. You never know who you'll meet that can get you in. That guy hiding in the corner with a headset on probably has way more power than you realize, and even if he doesn't now, he may later. So chat up those around you and dig your toes into the acting sandbox. Audition frequently. Taking auditions is a good way to be seen about town. Once people start to recognize you, they'll be more likely to consider you for roles. Getting your name out there is half the battle. You will get rejections. Take them lightly and keep going. A yes will come eventually. Move to a large city if possible. Start by working in your local film scene or in areas that you can easily get to. Save the money you make so you can make the move to a larger city where more roles are available and movies are frequently made. Consider moving to Los Angeles, Austin, New York, or Atlanta if you're in the United States. Try Vancouver, Toronto, London, or Mumbai for film outside of the US. Look for roles in commercials when you begin. Search for casting calls on websites like Backstage or Craigslist for local commercials. As you go in for the audition, dress for the part you're playing so the casting directors can easily picture you in the role. Commercial acting is a smaller role, but it will give you exposure to a wide audience and get your face out to the public. Look out for posts on Craigslist that seem too good to be true since they could possibly be scams. Watch for off-site emails or jobs that seem to be paying too high with no needed experience. Become an "extra" actor in larger pictures. Once you're where you need to be, get connected and take on roles as an extra, or background actor. Open casting calls for these can be found all over the Internet, but a few places to start off are Backstage, Hollywood Reporter and Variety. Though it may not be a starring role, you can still list an extra role on your resume to show you have experience. Get an agent. Ask around your network for opinions on who to go to and how to get started. Make cold-calls or send inquiry letters to agencies to see if they are looking for new talent to represent. An agent will help you negotiate deals for the roles you take on. Agents only get paid when they find you work. Don't buy into the ones that demand some exorbitant fee even if your schedule stays wide open. Get into a performer's union. Look into organizations like ACTRA, AEA, AGMA or AGVA. Once you are a member for at least 1 year and worked under union, you're eligible to get into SAG (the Screen Actor's Guild). Unions provide you with benefits and insurances while you're working. Annual SAG fees are $201.96 USD and 1.575% of the earnings you make in that year. Check with the union you're interested in to see what their annual rates are. Consider getting your equity card if you want to do theatre. Though it's completely possible to run through all the hoops without it and still find success, having your equity card opens up a number of auditions that otherwise wouldn't be available to you. You either have to get a contract that requires equity standing, be a member of a sister group (like SAG, for example), or accumulate enough credits to meet the standard. It's natural to find the process a bit confusing, so contact a friend or mainstay in your actor's social network for more information on how they received their card.

Improve your memory so you can remember your lines. Work on projecting your voice. Work on different dialects. Channel your emotions into the role. Work on your stage skills. Study acting at a university or an arts academy. Attend summer camps, acting workshops, or summer stock in your area. Practice acting in community theater. Hire an acting coach to help you with your technique. Get web exposure through social media and acting websites. . Network extensively. Stay informed about the industry. Learn an array of monologues. Assemble your resume. Show up prepared. Audition frequently. Move to a large city if possible. Look for roles in commercials when you begin. Become an "extra" actor in larger pictures. Get an agent. Get into a performer's union. Consider getting your equity card if you want to do theatre.

https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-for-SSI

How to Apply for SSI

To apply for SSI, make sure you meet the requirements, which include being disabled, blind, or over 65 years old, and a U.S. citizen. Then, fill out the application on the Social Security Administration website with information found on your social security card, birth certificate, and employment records. Alternatively, call your local Social Security office to start your application and schedule an appointment with a representative. Once your application is complete, expect to receive a follow-up letter through the mail.

Determine your eligibility. In the United States, you may apply for SSI if you are disabled, blind or 65 years or older (to receive the full amount). In addition to these basic qualifications, the following must be true: You must be a U.S. citizen or live in the United States with a different legal status. You must live in the U.S. or the Northern Mariana Islands. If you're disabled, you must accept vocational rehabilitation services. A wide range of disabilities may qualify a person depending on the specifics of his or her situation. You can find a comprehensive screening tool at: http://ssabest.benefits.gov/ Know how much to expect. The amount you receive in social security depends on your “covered earnings,” which is the amount on which you've paid social security taxes over your life. This average is called your average indexed monthly earning (AIME). The SSA uses this number differently between retirees and disability applicants to determine your monthly amount. In 2015, for instance, the average social security disability payment is $1,165 and the maximum benefit is $2,663. For retirees, the amount is more difficult to determine because it's based on the exact age, amount paid into the social security system, and even year in which the person will retire since the system is expected to change before many Generation X and younger Americans retire. However, the SSA does have an estimator allowing you to plan your benefit amount, which you can find here. Collect your personal documentation. Have the following original or certified documents available: Social Security card. Birth certificate. Information about your place of residence, such as your lease or mortgage papers. Collect employment and other income records. Current employment compensation and other income sources affect the SSI amount that you will receive. You will need to have all of your relevant employment records available, including: A list of detailed job descriptions and employment dates for your last five jobs. Information about your income, such as pay stubs, rental payments received, dividends from stocks and annuities, banking information, etc. Information about any workers' compensation or insurance claims you filed. Your W-2 Forms from the previous year. If you are self-employed, collect your IRS Form 1040 with Schedules C and SE. The Social Security numbers for your spouse and any minor children you have. Your bank account and routing number information (if you want your SSI benefit checks direct-deposited). Your military service discharge documents for any periods of active duty, if applicable. Collect medical records. Make sure your medical documentation is in order before calling or meeting with an SSA representative. You need documentation of all doctor's visits related to your disability if that is your grounds for seeking SSI benefits. You should include: The names and contact information of doctors who treated your disability. Include the names of specific hospitals and doctors, your patient identification number(s), and the dates of each of your treatments. The names of prescription medications you currently take. The names and dates of all the medical tests you have had since you began experiencing your disability. You must also collect and have ready the name of each health care provider who advised you to take the tests. The contact information of the insurance company, the name of the claim, and its assigned claim number. Contact information for people who are familiar with your medical conditions, people like friends, family, and caregivers who may be able to supply information needed to complete your claim. Organize the documentation you have gathered. You'll need to be able to easily refer to it during your SSI application and interview process. You may want to organize your paperwork in chronological order or put your paperwork in a binder with labeled dividers or into folders that separate W-2 forms from health provider contact information and so on. Apply online. Most retirees can complete the application process online in less than an hour with all the documentation handy. The online application process allows you to skip much of the wait, and the SSA will contact you if they need more information or to schedule an interview. You can find the online application for retirement benefits here. Contact your local SSA office about starting your application. If the SSA's website determines that you should apply in person instead, you will be directed to call your local office. Call 1-800-772-1213 to get in touch with a local SSA office. Provide SSA with your Social Security number over the telephone. Continue to follow the telephone prompts to locate the nearest SSA office. When you start your application, you'll need to give basic information about your situation. More detailed questions will be asked during a later appointment. Schedule an appointment with a Social Security representative. You will be asked to schedule an appointment with a representative to complete the application process. You may schedule a time to speak with the representative either over the phone or in person. During the appointment, you will answer detailed questions about your disability, your medical history and your financial situation. The purpose of this appointment is for the SSA representative to assess what level of disability you exhibit and what level of benefits you should receive as a result of your disability. Attend your interview. The SSA representative will ask you a series of questions related to the information you provide. This is considered a fact-finding process. After gathering the facts, the SSA will review your materials before making a decision. Be sure to answer as honestly and thoroughly as possible. You can anticipate being asked questions about: What duties you performed at your last few jobs. What medical treatments you received for any disability. How your disability has affected your quality of life. Wait for your follow-up letter. You will receive a letter after your interview once the SSA verifies your application information and determines if you meet the eligibility requirements for SSI benefits. Review the letter to see if you are approved for SSI benefits. Review and record your payment amount and the date you will begin receiving payments if you were approved for SSI benefits. If you were not approved for SSI benefits, you will receive an explanation why along with information on how to appeal the SSA's decision if you disagree. Appeal the decision. If you're unhappy with the SSA decision regarding your application, you can appeal within 60 days of the date that you received the Notice of Decision. You can appeal in writing, or you can appeal online if the SSA denied the application for medical reasons. For online appeals, visit: http://www.ssa.gov/disabilityssi/appeal.html. Understand the appeal process. Appeals to the SSA for a denial of SSI benefits can potentially go through four levels, including: Reconsideration by someone not involved in your first application. A hearing by an administrative law judge. A review by the Appeals Council. A federal court review. Determine if you can reapply. If you lose your appeal, you can't reapply for SSI unless your condition changes and becomes more severe or if you are diagnosed with a new condition that renders you eligible. If this situation applies to you, you may reapply for disability 60 days after your denial (either the date of the original denial if you do not appeal the decision, or the date that you lost the appeal, if you appealed).

Determine your eligibility. Know how much to expect. Collect your personal documentation. Collect employment and other income records. Collect medical records. Organize the documentation you have gathered. Apply online. Contact your local SSA office about starting your application. Schedule an appointment with a Social Security representative. Attend your interview. Wait for your follow-up letter. Appeal the decision. Understand the appeal process. Determine if you can reapply.

https://www.wikihow.com/Harvest-Corn

How to Harvest Corn

To harvest sweet corn, wait until 60-80 days after planting it or until the tassels on the corn plants start to turn brown. You can also squeeze the kernels to see if a milky fluid is released, which is a sign that the corn is ready to be harvested. Then, twist each corn ear off of its stalk while pulling down on it, and put the corn in a bucket or pile. When you're finished, try to prepare the corn on the same day so it doesn't lose all of its flavor.

Harvest sweet corn 60-80 days after planting it. On average, sweet corn takes 60-80 days to mature. Make a note on your calendar to check for harvesting signs at around 60 days after planting. Corn harvests quickest in hot weather, especially temperatures over 90 °F (32 °C). Harvest the corn when the tassels turn brown. The corn tassel is the pollen-releasing stem on the tops of corn plants. As your corn matures, its tassels should turn from green to brown. Avoid harvesting the corn until the tassels' green color has disappeared completely. The tassels should turn brown about 3 weeks after the plant flowers. Squeeze sweet corn kernels to check for a milky fluid. Pull back the corn silk and squeeze a kernel between your finger and thumb. If the kernel releases a milky fluid, your plant is ready for harvest. If your corn kernels are not mature, they will be firm and won't release a milky fluid. If that's the case, smooth the silk and husk back over unripe kernels. Your corn will still mature without any problems. Twist each corn ear off of its stalk. Hold the stalk in your non-dominant hand to steady it while you harvest. With your dominant hand, grab a corn ear and twist it to the side. Pull the ear down and yank hard, then put your freshly-picked corn in a bucket or pile. Pulling on the cornstalk without twisting can kill the plant. Prepare sweet corn quickly to prevent the flavor from deteriorating. When left in room-temperature conditions for 24 hours, sweet corn loses 50% of its sugar. Store or prepare sweet corn the same day that you pick it for a fresher taste. You can store sweet corn in the fridge for 2-4 days by wrapping unopened husks in damp paper towels. Remove the corn husk and silk. Pull on the husk leaves one at a time until you have completely exposed the small silky hairs covering the kernels. Pick off the silk one hair at a time or use an old toothbrush to rub them off. Microwaving the corn can make it easier to husk. Set the microwave power to high and heat the unhusked corn for 2 minutes. Put the silk and husks in a large container or trash bag to make cleanup easier. Freeze sweet corn to preserve it for 6-8 months. Blanch your corn in boiling water, then put your corn cobs in an airtight container and store it in the freezer. Freeze your corn for up to 6-8 months to have fresh-tasting corn no matter the season. You can also cut the kernels off of the cob with a knife before freezing for compact storage. Can sweet corn to preserve it for up to 5 years. If you don't plan on cooking your corn 2-4 days after harvesting, blanch your corn and remove the kernels with a sharp knife. Store the kernels in a jar and place them in a pressure canner to seal the jar. Canned corn tends to last longer than frozen corn at around 3-5 years. Cook sweet corn as a side dish if you want to eat it right away. Sweet corn makes a healthy, delicious side for most meals. You can cook fresh or preserved corn by boiling, microwaving, baking, grilling, or steaming it. If you do not want to store your sweet corn, cook it immediately after harvesting. Plan to harvest flint corn 80-100 days after planting it. Unlike sweet corn, flint corn takes between 80-100 days to harvest. After 80 days have passed since planting, check your flint corn every day for signs of maturity. Corn harvests faster in temperatures over 90 °F (32 °C). If you live in a warm climate, your flint corn will mature closer to 80 days. Check the corn tassels for a brown color. Corn tassels are the pollen-releasing stems on the tops of the plant. As your corn matures, its tassels should change colors from green to brown. Wait until tassels' green color has disappeared completely to harvest your corn. Corn tassels, on average, turn brown around 3 weeks after the plant flowers. Wait until flint corn kernels are firm. Flint corn and popcorn kernels should be dry and firm. Press on a corn kernel between your finger and thumb and, if it feels hardened, pick it as long as the tassels are brown and 80 days have passed since planting. If the corn kernels aren't quite matured, smooth the silk and husk back over. Pull the corn from its stalk. Hold the stalk in your non-dominant hand to steady it and, with your dominant hand, twist the ear once to the side. Pull the ear downward and yank it off of the stalk, placing your freshly-picked corn in a bucket or pile. Pulling on the cornstalk without twisting can kill the plant. Hang flint and popcorn cobs up to dry for 2-3 weeks. Find an empty indoor space, like a garage or storage shed, to store your corn. Tie a length of twine around each corn cob and hang them from the ceiling or rafters. Let them hang for about 2-3 weeks, then transfer them to a dry container like a bucket or a storage bin. Grind flint corn or use it as livestock feed. If you have a corn mill or a high-powered blender, you can use your flint corn for cornmeal. Otherwise, flint corn can make a cheap feed for livestock. Cornmeal is a healthy, filling flour that you can use for cornbread, polenta, tamales, and other dishes. You can also use flint corn as an autumn decoration. Rub off popcorn kernels and store them. After drying your popcorn cob, pull the kernels off with your hand or cut them off with a knife. Store them in a dry, airtight container until you're ready to cook with them. Although popcorn is a type of flint corn, it is the only corn variety that pops when you heat it. Do not try making popcorn from other varieties. Heat popcorn kernels to cook them. Depending on your preferences, you can microwave popcorn or heat it over a stove top. Keep the kernels under constant heat until they pop into light, fluffy popped corn. Grind popcorn into cornmeal as an alternative to popping. Like other flint corn varieties, you can grind popcorn into corn meal. If you want to use popcorn for baking, grind it using a high-powered blender or a corn mill. You can also use popcorn as livestock feed, if preferred.

Harvest sweet corn 60-80 days after planting it. Harvest the corn when the tassels turn brown. Squeeze sweet corn kernels to check for a milky fluid. Twist each corn ear off of its stalk. Prepare sweet corn quickly to prevent the flavor from deteriorating. Remove the corn husk and silk. Freeze sweet corn to preserve it for 6-8 months. Can sweet corn to preserve it for up to 5 years. Cook sweet corn as a side dish if you want to eat it right away. Plan to harvest flint corn 80-100 days after planting it. Check the corn tassels for a brown color. Wait until flint corn kernels are firm. Pull the corn from its stalk. Hang flint and popcorn cobs up to dry for 2-3 weeks. Grind flint corn or use it as livestock feed. Rub off popcorn kernels and store them. Heat popcorn kernels to cook them. Grind popcorn into cornmeal as an alternative to popping.

https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Used-Bookstore

How to Start a Used Bookstore

To start a used bookstore, decide if you want to sell exclusively online or if you want to open a traditional brick-and-mortar store. For a traditional store, you'll need to find a location, register the business, get a tax ID number, and obtain a license to operate legally. If you don't have a lot of startup capital, an online store might be the best choice. Next, acquire used books to build your inventory and remember to keep inventory well-stocked. Then, start advertising your business to attract your first customers.

Reflect on whether starting your own used bookstore is for you. Running and owning your own business can be difficult. It involves dedication and long hours, particularly at the beginning. Are you prepared for this? To find out, ask yourself the following questions. Are you prepared to take risks? You will be your own boss are you prepared to make difficult decisions? Are you independent? Many decisions will need to be made on your own without the help of others. Are you creative? Will you be able to market your bookstore in creative ways that draw people in? How is your social network? Do you know people who can advise you when you start and grow your business? Research your market. To run a successful used bookstore you need to understand your market. This includes information about your industry, your customers and your competitors. By researching these variables before opening your store you will put yourself in a good position to succeed. To get started with market research check out any information provided by government sources. You can examine a specific market by looking at data from the census, statistics from U.S. businesses, small business research and statistics, amongst other sources. Look for markets that fit the bookstore you are thinking about opening. Find any business specific market research through trade groups, academic institutions and other third parties. A good source for this is the American Booksellers Association. Think about an international angle. Are you willing to advertise and ship abroad? Use your market research to help select a location. This is perhaps the most important decision you will make as you start your used book store. It is vital that you have done market research to identify promising areas. It is also very important to check out potential spots, and the neighborhoods that surround them, in person. It is important that your location matches the type of store you envision yourself owning. You do not want a used bookstore in an area known for selling sporting goods. Look for competition. How many other used book stores are in the area? Do the other businesses around you complement your business or work against you. Is the area safe? What is the crime rate? You do not want to worry about break-ins or customers feeling unsafe. Big or small? Either way, it's best to have a place that you can grow into. If your business expands you will not want to relocate. A medium book store is about 3,700 square feet. Keep the benefits in mind. Owning your own used bookstore can be a very fulfilling enterprise despite the risks and difficulties associated with start-ups. It offers flexibility, independence and it gives you the power to run things the way you want to. Also, while you probably will not become rich it can be a way to earn a good living. If this appeals to you, and you are prepared to put in the work, a used bookstore may be for you! Decide if you want to open an exclusively online used bookstore. There is a strong case to be made for selling used books exclusively online. An online store has fewer start-up costs than a physical store, you can reach a huge global audience, and website design will allow you to create your own look and feel. While there are many positives to an online store, you need to be mindful of frustrations for customers as well. On the positive side customers enjoy saving time, saving fuel, saving energy, the ability to compare prices easily, the lack of lines and that online shopping is easily searchable. On the negative side online shoppers cannot personally check out their item and they do not get a sense of instant satisfaction after their purchase. Lack of interaction can be a big problem, especially in the used book business. Build your online store. To Start an Online Business is actually rather simple. After registering your business with the state government, register for a domain name. This will be the name of your website, so choose carefully. Next find a web hosting service that will put your website online. Finally you will have to design your website and choose a way for your customers to pay. There are many convenient options including PayPal. Think about a traditional 'brick and mortar' bookstore. This provides a physical presence where customers can come and browse the stacks. The 'brick and mortar' store is great option if you crave contact with people of a like mind and want to set up an environment where people come off the street to visit your store. However, just like an online store a traditional store also has its negatives. The traditional bookstore has significant overhead expenses that will cut into potential profits. The biggest cost is the startup, where you will have to think about rent, taxes and other factors. Register your business. If you decide that a traditional used bookstore is for you, you will first need to register your business' name with your state government. You will also need a tax identification number and will need to register for state and local taxes. Finally, you will need to obtain business licenses and permits. Regulations vary from state to state, so begin with an internet search for business regulations in your state. Combine the two options. The debate between an online store and a traditional store is not mutually exclusive. It is possible to do business both ways! If you decide to establish a traditional used bookstore you can design your own website and sell online to reach a global audience. Alternatively, you can start with an online store and expand into a traditional store once you establish a customer base. Remember you can sell through auctions on eBay, new and used book sales via Amazon, Barnes & Noble Booksellers, ABE, Biblio and more. Become knowledgeable. You can start by attend seminars given at book fairs, which take place all over the world. There you can learn about rare books, what is popular and what to expect from customers. It will also help you build a network and gain some hands on experience in book dealing. In addition you need to understand condition, print issue, book terminology and what makes books rare or unusual. Research can be done by reading magazines dedicated to books and rare books. You may also consider visiting internet sites that explore the buying, selling and collecting process. Write a Business Plan for a Small Business. Once you have decided what type of store you want to open put an action plan in place. Your business plan should forecast 3-5 years into the future. It should include several parts that can be shown to potential investors. It will also provide a useful reference guide for yourself. You should include the following. An executive summary that summarizes the document. A description of your company. Analysis of the market. Organization of the store. Information on what you will sell. Your intentions for marketing and sales. Your financial projections. For additional information, you can check out Write a Business Plan. Acquire books to sell and always remember your inventory is your biggest investment. The acquisition of the right books comes from a wide variety of sources. Your book scouting legwork is mainly responsible for the inventory you find, although some will come to you from people you meet who buy and sell books. Hunt for rare books online that can be purchased for a good price. Beware of acquiring low-quality books and/or books in poor condition. This will leave you with low-quality inventory. Cheap books should be avoided. Only buy books you believe you can make money on. Become a book scout. A bookseller's success largely will depend on his scouting skills. A book scout is a person who searches out books available for sale. These searches take him or her to yard sales, estate auctions, thrift stores, friends of the library events and anywhere else books are offered for sale. Inventory your supply. A used bookstore is only a building with a business name without an inventory of books to sell. Try to print out a list of all of the books for customers and post it online if you have a website or online store. Market your new store. There are a number of strategies that you can employ to get the word out about your new store. Begin by developing a marketing plan. Determine how much you want to spend on marketing, how exactly you want to market and who you want to market to. Your marketing strategy should reflect the marketing research you did earlier. You may want to create business cards or flyers to highlight your new business. Develop an internet presence. Even if you are opening a traditional used bookstore you will want to have a website where people can learn about your store and what it offers. Get your store on social media. Try facebook, twitter, google plus, and more. Talk to friends who own their own business and find out how they market their stores. Associate with fellow bibliophiles. It can be very advantageous to frequent book fairs. Get on book fair mailing lists to stay informed of where they are held. When one is in your area set up a booth. A booth will help get word of your store out to potential customers. Do a quick internet search for upcoming book fairs in your region. Attend them all! Deliver a special experience for your customers. Nothing is better than word of mouth. Do your absolute best to make your customer feel valued and appreciated. Go out of your way to cater to their demands. By doing this you stand a good chance of gaining a repeat customer and of that customer referring a friend. Offer incentives for customers who come back. A 'thank you' goes a long way!

Reflect on whether starting your own used bookstore is for you. Research your market. Use your market research to help select a location. Keep the benefits in mind. Decide if you want to open an exclusively online used bookstore. Build your online store. Think about a traditional 'brick and mortar' bookstore. Register your business. Combine the two options. Become knowledgeable. Write a Business Plan for a Small Business. Acquire books to sell and always remember your inventory is your biggest investment. Become a book scout. Inventory your supply. Market your new store. Associate with fellow bibliophiles. Deliver a special experience for your customers.

https://www.wikihow.com/Find-the-Perpendicular-Bisector-of-Two-Points

How to Find the Perpendicular Bisector of Two Points

To find the perpendicular bisector of 2 points, find the midpoint of the 2 points by using the midpoint formula. Then, find the slope of the 2 points by using the slope formula, and find the negative reciprocal of the slope by taking the reciprocal and changing the sign. Write the equation of the line in point-slope form using the negative reciprocal and the midpoint. Solve the equation for the intercept to find the perpendicular bisector.

Find the midpoint of the two points. To find the midpoint of two points, simply plug them into the midpoint formula: [(x 1 + x 2 )/2,( y 1 + y 2 )/2]. This means that you're just finding the average of the x and y coordinates of the two sets of points, which leads you to the midpoint of the two coordinates. Let's say we're working with the (x 1 , y 1 ) coordinates of (2, 5) and the (x 2 , y 2 ) coordinates of (8, 3). Here's how you find the midpoint for those two points: [(2+8)/2, (5 +3)/2] = (10/2, 8/2) = (5, 4) The coordinates of the midpoint of (2, 5) and (8, 3) are (5, 4). Find the slope of the two points. To find the slope of the two points, simply plug the points into the slope formula: (y 2 - y 1 ) / (x 2 - x 1 ). The slope of a line measures the distance of its vertical change over the distance of its horizontal change. Here's how to find the slope of the line that goes through the points (2, 5) and (8, 3): (3-5)/(8-2) = -2/6 = -1/3 The slope of the line is -1/3. To find this slope, you have to reduce 2/6 to its lowest terms, 1/3, since both 2 and 6 are evenly divisible by 2. Find the negative reciprocal of the slope of the two points. To find the negative reciprocal of a slope, simply take the reciprocal of the slope and change the sign. You can take the negative reciprocal of a number simply by flipping the x and y coordinates and change the sign. The reciprocal of 1/2 is -2/1, or just -2; the reciprocal of -4 is 1/4. The negative reciprocal of -1/3 is 3 because 3/1 is the reciprocal of 1/3 and the sign has been changed from negative to positive. Write the equation of a line in slope-intercept form. The equation of a line in slope-intercept form is y = mx + b where any x and y coordinates in the line are represented by the "x" and "y," the "m" represents the slope of the line, and the "b" represents the y-intercept of the line. The y-intercept is where the line intersects the y-axis. Once you write down this equation, you can begin to find the equation of the perpendicular bisector of the two points. Plug the negative reciprocal of the original slope into the equation. The negative reciprocal of the slope of the points (2, 5) and (8, 3) was 3. The "m" in the equation represents the slope, so plug the 3 into the "m" in the equation of y = mx + b. 3 --> y = mx + b = y = 3x + b Plug the points of the midpoint into the line. You already know that the midpoint of the points (2, 5) and (8, 3) is (5, 4). Since the perpendicular bisector runs through the midpoint of the two lines, you can plug the coordinates of the midpoint into the equation of the line. Simply plug in (5, 4) into the x and y coordinates of the line. (5, 4) ---> y = 3x + b = 4 = 3(5) + b = 4 = 15 + b Solve for the intercept. You have found three of the four variables in the equation of the line. Now you have enough information to solve for the remaining variable, "b," which is the y-intercept of this line. Simply isolate the variable "b" to find its value. Just subtract 15 from both sides of the equation. 4 = 15 + b = -11 = b b = -11 Write the equation of the perpendicular bisector. To write the equation of the perpendicular bisector, you simply have to plug in the slope of the line (3) and the y-intercept (-11) into the equation of a line in slope-intercept form. You should not plug in any terms into the x and y coordinates, because this equation will allow you to find any coordinate on the line by plugging in either any x or any y coordinate. y = mx + b y = 3x - 11 The equation for the perpendicular bisector of the points (2, 5) and (8, 3) is y = 3x - 11.

Find the midpoint of the two points. Find the slope of the two points. Find the negative reciprocal of the slope of the two points. Write the equation of a line in slope-intercept form. Plug the negative reciprocal of the original slope into the equation. Plug the points of the midpoint into the line. Solve for the intercept. Write the equation of the perpendicular bisector.

https://www.wikihow.com/Raise-Your-Own-Crickets

How to Raise Your Own Crickets

If you want to raise your own crickets, purchase one 14-gallon storage container for every 500 adult crickets, as well as one extra for raising young crickets. Cut 6-inch holes in the top of each container for ventilation, then cover the holes with a metal screen to prevent escapes. On the inside of the containers, line the floor with 1-3 inches of vermiculite, and add a water supply. Place a plastic container filled with very damp topsoil in one corner for the females to lay their eggs, then add the crickets and let them breed!

Buy several large containers or tanks. You will need a container or tank to keep your crickets in. It's easiest to have at least two containers, one for breeding adults and one for maturing young crickets. Decide how many crickets you want to raise and purchase a container(s) of suitable size. You'll want to make sure that your container or tank is big enough for your cricket colony. One big mistake many people make when raising crickets is not buying a big enough container. When crickets breed in a very confined space, they actually eat one another so that there are fewer crickets to compete for resources. This isn't something you want. Make sure to buy a big enough tank! Purchase a clear tote bin with a secure lid to keep the crickets in. High-sided plastic storage boxes are a common choice. A 14 gallon (53 L) container can hold a colony of over 500 crickets with sufficient cardboard or egg crates to climb on. Smooth-surfaced tote bins will reduce the number of escapees. Make your containers breathable. Cut one or two 6" holes in lid of the tote bin for ventilation. Cover the top with a metal mosquito screen to prevent escapes, as crickets can chew through plastic screen. Try a hot glue gun to secure the screen. You can experiment with variable vents if you want additional control over the heat. Layer the floor of the container with vermiculite. Place 1-3" of vermiculite in the bottom of the tote bin. This will give the crickets something to walk on that will keep the container dry to prevent bacteria and reduce odors. Especially with denser colonies, this will need to be replaced every 1-6 months, so get some extra. Place a disposable plastic container filled with very damp loose topsoil in the tote bin. The females need this to lay their eggs in. Try to make it just slightly higher than the vermiculite so the crickets can get in the container. Make sure your topsoil is fertilizer- and pesticide-free. You can put screen on the surface of the soil to prevent crickets from digging or eating the eggs. Females can deposit eggs through screen using their egg laying spike (ovipositor). Buy 50 or more crickets. Make sure you have enough crickets to feed your pet with 30-50 extra to breed. It's important to have a mix of male and female crickets but preferably, more females than males. Female crickets have three long extrusions on their behind with the main one (called ovipositor) that it uses to deposit the eggs in the ground. Female crickets will also grow fully developed wings. Male crickets have two extrusions. They have short, under-developed wings that they use to produce the familiar cricket call we hear at night. Assemble your colony and let them feed. Place all your crickets in your completed cricket container. Place a shallow dish of commercial cricket food or substitute (crushed premium dry cat food works well) in the container away from the soil. You can treat the colony to fruit, potato slices, greens, and other vegetable matter to supplement their diet. Be sure to remove unfinished fresh foods before they mold or rot. Other, more bizarre foods may include tropical fish flakes, pond fish pellets, rabbit food (alfalfa pellets), or pretty much anything with high protein content. Try to mix the feeding up to keep your crickets happy. The health of your crickets will translate directly to the health of your pet(s). Try to supplement dry foods with fruits and vegetable scraps, as well as greens such as lettuce. This will ensure that your crickets are truly ready to be a nutritious snack for your pet(s). Make sure to give your crickets adequate water. Crickets need near constant supplies of water to stay alive and well. Watch as your crickets swarm to water whenever you mist the container. Here are some creative ways cricket keepers keep their quarry nice and hydrated: Try placing an inverted bottle reptile water dispenser with a sponge in the reservoir into your container. The sponge should help prevent any flooding or drowning in the tote bin. Cut one long side of a cardboard toilet roll and unfurl it to get a rectangle. Wrap this cardboard with very absorbent paper, such as paper towel, and hoist it up vertically in a corner so that it forms a kind of fort. A dish of water gel (also sold as soil substitute, e.g. "polyacrylamide") or unflavored jello kept in a corner also makes a great watering hole. Heat your crickets. Crickets absolutely need to be kept warm to promote breeding and incubation for their eggs. Heat can be provided by various methods such as a reptile heater, a heat pad, or a light bulb. Placing a space heater in a walk-in closet will heat the entire closet, providing heat for your crickets and incubating their eggs. When mating to breed, males only chirp between 55–100 °F (13–38 °C). Crickets do best when kept on the warmer side of 80–90 °F (27–32 °C). Give your crickets time to breed. If you've given them enough food, water, and heat, and your crickets are generally happy, they should breed profusely. Give them about two weeks to breed and lay the eggs in the soil. The crickets will burrow down about an inch below the topsoil in order to lay their eggs. After two weeks, the topsoil will be filled with little oblong eggs about half the size of a rice grain. Remove this topsoil and place it in a nesting container to incubate the eggs. While waiting for your crickets to lay eggs, be sure to keep the topsoil damp. Eggs that are completed dried out will die and be useless to you. Fill a mister with filtered water and periodically spray the topsoil to make sure the heat doesn't dry it out completely. Incubate the eggs. The crickets need heat to incubate the eggs until they hatch. Place the disposable container in a larger container that can be sealed tightly and place it where the temperature is 85–90 °F (29–32 °C). After about two weeks (longer at lower temps), the eggs will start hatching and pinhead crickets the size of a grain of sand will emerge by the hundreds daily for about two weeks. Collect the pinhead crickets and place them in a rearing container. This container should be stocked with food and water to allow the baby pinheads to grow until they are an appropriate size to put back into the main container — usually about 7 - 10 more days. Remember to moisten the soil in your rearing container every so often to make sure that the crickets have enough water. Consider also placing the rearing container on top of a heating pad set to 80–90 °F (27–32 °C). Repeat. Following the above steps with your new crickets will produce hundreds upon thousands of crickets, which will be plenty to feed your pet and perhaps even all your friends' pets. Pretty soon, you will be a full fledged cricket farmer! If your crickets die, pay special attention to these things: Not enough space. Crickets need plenty of space to habitat and breed. If your crickets become too crowded, they will begin to feed on themselves in order to remove competitors from the ecosystem. Not enough/too much water. Crickets need more water than you may think — misting the soil and filling their water reservoirs every couple days is extremely important. At the same time, do not drown your crickets in water. Regular misting and refilling is enough. Not enough heat. Crickets like hot temperatures to live and breed in. Try to keep your container between 80 and 90 degrees Fahrenheit for optimum temperature.

Buy several large containers or tanks. Make your containers breathable. Layer the floor of the container with vermiculite. Place a disposable plastic container filled with very damp loose topsoil in the tote bin. Buy 50 or more crickets. Assemble your colony and let them feed. Make sure to give your crickets adequate water. Heat your crickets. Give your crickets time to breed. Incubate the eggs. Collect the pinhead crickets and place them in a rearing container. Repeat.

https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Over-the-Fear-of-Driving

How to Get Over the Fear of Driving

To get over a fear of driving, make short trips on quiet roads until you're more comfortable and confident. You can also try practicing deep breathing or listen to quiet music while you drive to help you stay calm. Alternatively, ask a low-key friend or family member to ride with you, and let them know how they can help. For example, you may want them to distract you by talking about their day, or you may want their help reading road signs. You may also feel less afraid if you read your owner's manual and understand more about how your car works.

Take small steps. If you are too nervous to drive across town, make a shorter trip -- even if it is just around the block. Do not get yourself so worked up that driving becomes a bigger deal than it is. Unless you are overwhelmed with anxiety and terrified to get into a car, make yourself drive. Remember, even taking a small step still counts as practice. Push your comfort zone a little at a time. For example, you may want to start by sitting in a parked car, getting used to all the controls, before you ever put the key in the ignition. Once you are comfortable doing that, you may want to start the car, shift the car into drive, and then back into park. Slowly build on your comfort level. Figure out if your fear of driving is generalized or specific to one aspect of driving. If it is the latter, practice mastering the feared skill. For example, you may be terrified to parallel park. You may wish to find an empty street where you can practice maneuvering between safety cones, and when you have mastered that, perhaps you can try parking between two friends' cars. Drive away from others. Get used to driving in quiet areas before practicing in traffic. Find quiet side streets or an empty parking lot, and get used to starting, stopping, signaling, turning, reversing, and so on. Learn to control your vehicle and to find the controls someplace where you don't have to worry about traffic or other drivers. Work up to busier roads and longer drives as you start to feel comfortable operating the car. You may wish to practice driving only during the day at first. You will feel more confident simply because you are able to see better. Go out with a friend or family member. Driving with someone you trust may help you to feel at ease in the car. If anything bad should happen, this person will be there to assist and advise you, and even to take over if traffic or conditions gets to be too much for your experience or confidence level. Make sure you are driving with a person who is naturally calming to you. For example, you probably want a person who will calmly tell you, “Oops, looks like we missed the turn back there. How about you pull into this parking lot and turn around?” instead of shouting, “That's where we needed to turn!” Let your friend or family member know how they can be supportive to you in the car. Maybe you would like them to tell you about their day to help keep your mind calm. Or maybe you would prefer quiet to concentrate. Read your owner's manual. By learning more about your car , you can find out how it works, learn about its safety features, and learn how to troubleshoot problems. A better understanding of a car makes you feel comfortable with it. Learn about the parts of your car, and then experiment with your driving, away from other cars, to see how they work. For example, if your car has anti-lock brakes (ABS), try them out in a safe place, before you need to use them. Get up to a medium speed, and press the brake hard. You may feel the pedal pulse, or hear a pulsing noise. That's exactly what it's supposed to do. Anti-lock brakes are designed to stop your car in the shortest possible distance, by automatically pulsing the brakes to prevent you from skidding. Get used to your own car. It may be better for you to practice driving in the same vehicle until you get more confident. All cars are a little different and have their own quirks. Teach yourself basic car maintenance. Learn how to fill up washer fluid, replace fuses, put air in your tires, or replace windshield wipers. Getting comfortable with the parts of your car, even if they are very basic, can help you feel more confident and less anxious. Learn how to change a tire. A lot of people are afraid of what they will do in the event of a flat tire. If you can change a tire, you will not need to wait at the side of the road for help. You can feel empowered to solve your problem. Review the rules of the road. Consult the highway code or book an appointment with a qualified driving instructor. Feeling knowledgeable about rules and expectations can help your confidence. Watch safe driving videos online. If you can't get to a class, try watching videos to build skills and increase your confidence level. Take a defensive driving class. Learn to identify and correct or avoid difficult situations, before they become emergencies. Your anxiety level may be reduced by feeling more prepared to handle problematic scenarios. Not only will you learn valuable, confidence-boosting driving skills, but you can often get a discount on your insurance premiums for completing a reputable defensive driving training course. Be prepared for your drive. To lessen your anxiety, it might help you to have everything ready for your journey. Figure out what items or steps you could take that would make you feel better, and then plan ahead. For example, you might wish to: Fill up the car with gas. Check the tire pressure. Have a first aid kit in the trunk. Have phone numbers of people to call in case of an emergency. Have directions printed out or ready to go in your phone before you leave. Practice safe driving. Don't engage in risky behavior, like speeding or looking at your phone while driving, that could increase your anxiety level. It also increases your risk of an accident. Do not feel like you need to drive more aggressively than you are comfortable with. For example, a lot of people accelerate through yellow lights, but you might want to drive more cautiously until you feel less anxious and more confident. Do not talk on the phone while driving, and never text and drive. Your phone can wait until you arrive. Don't worry about what other people on the road are doing, even if they're honking or speeding around you. Just focus on the road ahead of you and driving safely. Practice visualization techniques. Visualization tricks your brain into feeling like you were actually there. It helps you feel calmer and more confident, because you are now able to draw on the “experience” you already have. Before you start driving, close your eyes and breathe deeply. Try imagining yourself going through all the steps of starting the car: buckling your seat belt, turning on the engine, getting out of your parking place, and successfully driving to your destination with confidence and calmness. Visualize the route and passing landmarks on your route if you can. Utilize deep breathing techniques. Focusing on your breathing can help you remain present and calm. Once you get good at mindful breathing, you will find it to be a relaxation tool you can utilize anywhere! An easy technique to try while you are driving is simply breathing in through your nose, feeling your belly and lungs expand as air fills your body, and then fully exhale out your nose. Listen to music to help you calm down. Relaxing music at low volume can help you calm down. Do not listen to anything that will further agitate you. Talk or sing to yourself. Lift your spirits with positive or silly words and fun songs. Maybe you only want to do this when you are alone so you don't feel self-conscious. For example, you could repeat a mantra, like “I'm doing a great job. I'm confident and calm. I will get to my destination on time and safely.” Make yourself laugh. Be silly with your speeches -- no one is going to hear you! For example, you could narrate your drive like you're in a race car: “She's coming round the corner… will the Accord let her merge? YES! She's moved into first place, ladies and gentlemen!” Laughter will help you relax. Singing your favorite, guilty-pleasure songs at the top of your lungs can help you enjoy yourself. Not only is it fun, but singing helps you focus on your breathing and remain present, which helps relieve stress. Consider more help. If you have tried some relaxation techniques and are still feeling anxious behind the wheel, you may wish to seek counseling from a counselor who specializes in phobias. Fortunately, with professional help, phobias generally require fairly straightforward treatment. You will most likely work with a professional using exposure therapy techniques; that is, getting a little more comfortable with one aspect of driving at a time, slowly building your tolerance level. You may also wish to learn more about Overcoming a Driving Phobia.

Take small steps. Drive away from others. Go out with a friend or family member. Read your owner's manual. Teach yourself basic car maintenance. Review the rules of the road. Take a defensive driving class. Be prepared for your drive. Practice safe driving. Practice visualization techniques. Utilize deep breathing techniques. Listen to music to help you calm down. Talk or sing to yourself. Consider more help.

https://www.wikihow.com/Dye-Eggs-with-Food-Coloring-Without-Vinegar

How to Dye Eggs with Food Coloring Without Vinegar

If you want to dye eggs with food coloring but your don't have vinegar, try replacing the vinegar with an equal amount of lemon or lime juice. For example, if the dye recipe calls for 1 teaspoon of vinegar, use 1 teaspoon of lemon or lime juice instead. If you want to dye eggs with natural ingredients instead of food coloring, boil them in water along with colorful chopped veggies. For instance, if you want pink eggs, boil them with 1-2 chopped beats. Or, if you want blue eggs, boil them with half a head of chopped red cabbage.

Replace the vinegar with an equal amount of lemon or lime juice. The acid in vinegar creates a chemical reaction that helps the food coloring to bond with the eggshell. Lemon or lime juice will also provide enough acid to cause this reaction. You can use lemon or lime juice as a 1 to 1 replacement for vinegar in egg dye recipes. For example, if the recipe calls for 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of vinegar, use 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of lemon or lime juice. You can use fresh or bottled lemon or lime juice. Both will work the same way. Try using 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of vitamin C powder instead of vinegar. If you don't have any lemon or lime juice on hand, check your vitamin stash for vitamin C powder. Use 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of vitamin C powder in place of 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of vinegar in your dye recipe. If you don't have vitamin C powder, you can also use a vitamin C tablet. Crush it into a powder using the back of a spoon and add that to your dye mixture. Use water and dye if you’re making pastel-colored eggs. If you don't have any lemons, limes, vitamin C powder, or vitamin C tablets, then you can use water and your other dye ingredients to color the eggs. They will be lighter in color than they would be with vinegar or a vinegar substitute, but they will still retain some color. For example, if the recipe says to add 4 fluid ounces (120 mL) of water to a cup with 6 drops of food coloring and 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of vinegar, just leave out the vinegar. Choose colorful edible items to dye your eggs. Boiling eggs in chopped fruits or veggies may be enough to get the color to stick. If you do not have a vinegar substitute or dye, you can use an edible dye. Some good options for dyeing 10 to 12 eggs include: 1/2 a head of chopped red cabbage (blue) 2 or 3 chopped carrots (yellow) 1 or 2 chopped beets (pink) 32 fluid ounces (950 mL) of cranberry juice (pink) 32 fluid ounces (950 mL) of coffee (brown or tan) 1 12 oz (340 g) package of fresh spinach leaves (green) 32 fluid ounces (950 mL) of red wine or grape juice (dark purple) 2 or 3 yellow onion skins (orange) 2 tablespoons of turmeric (bright yellow) Cover your eggs and dye materials with water if you’re using dry ingredients. First, put your eggs and dye materials in a large pot. Then, pour in enough water to cover the eggs and dye components. The amount will depend on the number of eggs you are dyeing and the volume of your dye materials. For example, if you will be dyeing eggs with 2 tablespoons of turmeric, then you will probably need about 32 fluid ounces (950 mL) of water. Cover your eggs in a pot with a liquid if you're not using dry ingredients. If you are using liquid to dye your eggs, pour enough of it over your eggs to cover them. You will need about 32 fluid ounces (950 mL) of liquid to cover a pot of 10 to 12 eggs. Make sure to purchase or prepare a large enough amount of the liquid to cover the eggs. For example, if you are going to be boiling your eggs in coffee, brew an entire pot and then pour enough over them to cover them. Include a vinegar substitute if you have it. Adding a vinegar substitute will help to ensure that more of the dye sticks to your eggshells. Use 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of lemon or lime juice in place of 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of vinegar, or use 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of vitamin C powder instead of 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of vinegar. Boiling the eggs in the dye will also help to make the color stick. If you are using wine to color the eggs, then you will not need to add anything else. The acidity of the wine will be enough to dye the eggs without vinegar or a vinegar replacement. Boil the eggs for 7 minutes. Turn the heat up to medium-high and place the pot on the burner. Bring the water to a boil, and then turn it down to low-medium. Let the eggs simmer in the dye mixture for 7 minutes. If desired, you can test 1 of the eggs to make sure it is done. Use metal tongs to remove it from the pot, and then use a metal spoon to crack it. Cut down the center of the egg and inspect the yolk. It should be firm if the egg is cooked. Let the eggs cool in the pot for about 2 hours. After the eggs have finished cooking, switch off the burner and leave the eggs alone. They can cool in the pot at room temperature for up to 2 hours. This will help to make the color stick to the shells even better. If you want to keep the eggs in the dye overnight, put the pot into your refrigerator after they have cooled to room temperature. You will get darker, more vibrant colors if you leave the eggs to sit in the dye overnight.

Replace the vinegar with an equal amount of lemon or lime juice. Try using 1 teaspoon (4.9 mL) of vitamin C powder instead of vinegar. Use water and dye if you’re making pastel-colored eggs. Choose colorful edible items to dye your eggs. Cover your eggs and dye materials with water if you’re using dry ingredients. Cover your eggs in a pot with a liquid if you're not using dry ingredients. Include a vinegar substitute if you have it. Boil the eggs for 7 minutes. Let the eggs cool in the pot for about 2 hours.

https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-a-Tri%E2%80%90Tip-Roast

How to Cook a Tri‐Tip Roast

To cook a tri-tip roast, start by seasoning the meat with Santa Maria spice the day before you roast it, and placing the meat in the fridge. Next, take the roast out 45 minutes before you plan on cooking it so it can reach room temperature. Then, cook the roast at 420 degrees Fahrenheit for 30 minutes. Afterwards, cover the roast with foil and let it rest for 15 minutes on the counter to finish cooking. Finally, slice the meat thinly across the grain.

Choose a tri-tip roast. Aim for a roast that is approximately 2.5 to 3 lbs. (1.1 to 1.4 kg) to keep it moist in the center while it cooks in the dry oven. Pick 1 that is marbled throughout. Tri-tip roast may be labeled as “sirloin roast,” “triangle roast” or even Santa Maria steak.” One side of the meat should have more fat than the other. You will cook it with this side up. There is little internal fat with this cut of meat, so it is better cooked at high temperatures to medium rare doneness. Cook it within 3 to 5 days of bringing it home. You can also freeze it for up to 1 week in the butcher's wrap. Defrost it completely in the refrigerator before cooking. Season the roast 24 hours in advance. Santa Maria rub is traditionally used with this type or roast. Once you have massaged the seasoning all over the roast, wrap it in plastic and place it back in the refrigerator. To make Santa Maria rub for a 4 lb. (1.8 kg) roast, mix 1tbsp. (18 g) of salt, 1 tbsp. (6.9 g) of black pepper, 1 tbsp. (9.3 g) of garlic powder, 1 tbsp. (7.2 g) of onion powder, 1 tbsp. (5.4 g) of dried oregano, 1 tsp. (1.8 g) of cayenne pepper, 1 tsp. (1.2 g) of dry rosemary and ½ tsp. (0.4 g) of dry sage. Remove the roast from the refrigerator 45 minutes before you plan to cook it. Letting it come to room temperature will help it to cook more evenly in the oven. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius). Place the roast in a shallow roasting pan with the fat side up. Make sure there is a lip in the pan so you can collect the juices. Roast the meat for 30 minutes. Test it with a meat thermometer. You should aim for 135 degrees Fahrenheit (57 degrees Celsius) for a medium rare roast and 150 degrees (66 degrees Celsius) for a medium roast. Remove it from the oven and place it on the counter. Cover it with aluminum foil. The meat will continue to cook for several minutes, so make sure to rest it for 15 minutes. Slice the meat thinly across the grain. Season the roast with the Santa Maria rub recipe. You can also marinate it overnight with any marinade recipe of your choice. Take the roast out of the refrigerator 45 minutes before you roast it. Heat a grill to high on 1 side. Leave the other side of the grill off to heat indirectly. You should aim to maintain a temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 degrees Celsius) in direct heat and 250 to 300 degrees Fahrenheit (121 to 149 degrees Celsius) in the indirect heat. Sear the tri-tip. Place the roast on the high heat. Turn it until all the sides are browned. You should sear it for 3 to 4 minutes per side. Place the roast on the indirect heat with the fat side up. Turn the direct heat control down to about 400 degrees Fahrenheit (204 degrees Celsius). Lower the lid or cover the roast. Test the meat after 30 minutes with a meat thermometer. Remove it from the grill when it is 135 degrees (medium rare) or 150 degrees Fahrenheit (medium). The tri-tip cut will start to get tough if you cook to a higher temperature than this. Set the tri-tip to rest on the counter. Cover it with aluminum foil. The roast will continue cooking and reach an internal temperature between 5 and 10 degrees hotter than the last reading. Slice the meat against the grain. Serve immediately.

Choose a tri-tip roast. Cook it within 3 to 5 days of bringing it home. Season the roast 24 hours in advance. Remove the roast from the refrigerator 45 minutes before you plan to cook it. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius). Place the roast in a shallow roasting pan with the fat side up. Roast the meat for 30 minutes. Remove it from the oven and place it on the counter. Slice the meat thinly across the grain. Season the roast with the Santa Maria rub recipe. Take the roast out of the refrigerator 45 minutes before you roast it. Heat a grill to high on 1 side. Sear the tri-tip. Place the roast on the indirect heat with the fat side up. Test the meat after 30 minutes with a meat thermometer. Set the tri-tip to rest on the counter. Slice the meat against the grain.

https://www.wikihow.com/Install-Tile

How to Install Tile

To install tile, start by installing cement board over the floor you'll be tiling, which will waterproof the floor and help prevent cracking. Then, dry fit the tiles by arranging them on the floor in the pattern you want, and cut any tiles along the edges that don't fit. Next, spread thin-set mortar over the floor, and lay the tiles over it, inserting grout spacers at the corners of the tiles as you go. Finally, remove the grout spacers, and fill in the gaps with grout.

Make sure your base is strong. Before you start tiling, it's important to make sure that the surface the tile is going on to is strong and stable. This is extremely important that this base is structurally sound, otherwise you will soon find cracks in your tile work....and if it's really bad your whole floor or wall could come falling down under the weight! Check your subfloor, cabinets, or wall frame, depending on what you're tiling. Look for signs of mold or rot and try place weight on the boards. If they bow or seem unsteady, they might need to be replaced or reinforced. Install cement board. You will need to install cement board or a similar product (like a tile backer) before laying down the tiles. Do not use plywood. Cement board will help waterproof your structure and it will also be much more resistant to warping, which helps to prevent cracks. Score the cement board and then snap it cut out the pieces that you need. Screw it down along the edges (every couple inches) and also at the center (3-4 evenly spaced locations should do). Make sure to stagger the joints between different rows of the cement board. This will prevent large cracks from appearing over time. If attaching the cement board to a subfloor, you will need to apply mortar before lying down each panel, and then screwing it into place. Use the method described later in the article for mortaring the tiles. Check for level as you go. Use a carpenter's level to check that the cement board is flat in all directions. You should also continue to check for level as you go through the various layers of the tiling project. If the cement board is not level, you can adjust it with shims from below. Reinforce the joints. Using strips of fiber mesh tape, first cover the joints in thinset mortar, lay down a strip of tape over the joint, and then lay down another skimcoat of mortar.Once everything is smooth and set, you're ready to go. Create the guide lines. Walls in a room are often not square or straight, and ceilings are notorious for being uneven. Use a snap chalk line, a carpenter's level, and a measuring tape to mark some truly straight lines for your tiles to follow. Measure the halfway point on each wall (or edge of a wall, if that's what you're tiling), and then snap a chalk line between opposite sides. Measure to see if the intersections at the middle of the room are square. If not, adjust. You can use this as a base to measure and draw other straight lines and perfect corners in the room. You only need to actually mark the corners or outside edges of where the tiles will go, not mark every row. Dry fit the tiles to test your pattern. Once you've figured out where your tiles are going to go, dry fit the tiles until you're comfortable with how the pattern looks and how all the tiles should fit together. This is very important if you're using different tiles in a pattern or tiles of a different size. You'll also want to plan where you want to start the tiles, so that the edges look nice. Some tiles will almost certainly need to be cut to fit at the edges, so plan where you want the tiles to start so that the cut, edge tiles look nice and balanced. Prepare your mortar. Mix up some thin set mortar according to the manufacturer's instructions for the brand you buy. Generally, you'll have a powder to which you add water. You want the texture of the mortar to be like that of peanut butter. Add the water in slowly and mix as you go, so that you don't get too much water in the mix. You'll also want to let it "slake" or rest after you do the initial mixing. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes and then mix it up again. It's now ready to use. Spread your mortar. Spread mortar in a small area where you will begin to work. Only work with a roughly 2'x3' area at a time. You do not want the mortar to have time to set before you can lay your tile. Using a notched trowel (different sizes may be needed, 3/8" is a good starting point), spread the mortar between sections that you marked with the chalk line. If the mortar rises up between the tiles (to be flush or nearly flush with the tile surface), that means it's too thick or that the ridges need to be shorter. The mortar should be covering the entire tile, if you lift it up after placing it. If when you lift up the tiles you see only lines of mortar on the tile, then the mortar has dried out too much or the bed is too thin and the height of the ridges must be increased. If using tile sheets, use a trowel with smaller notches. This will keep the mortar from coming up through the gaps between the tiles. Lay your tiles. Lay your tiles onto the mortar, starting at the right corner you marked and following a straight line. Leave gaps of 1/8" where the edge of the tile meets up with the wall or floor. This is to allow room for expansion and movement, as the material naturally changes with its environment. This gap can be covered with grout, molding, or shoe tile. Insert the spacers as you go. Place tile spaces between each tile as you go, or simply use your eyes to estimate if using tile sheets. These spacers are usually places at the corners of each tile and look like the cross shape that is formed by four tiles being next to each other. Level the tiles as you go. Use a carpenter's level as you go to make sure that the tiles are level. Cut tiles for the edges. Use a masonry wet saw to cut any tiles you need for the corners and edges, carefully measuring them to fit for your particular project. Don't forget to leave the 1/8" gap all around the edge. Remove your spacers before doing the grout. Remove the spaces once the mortar has set and you're ready to grout! Choose a grout. You'll need to decide between sanded and unsanded grout. Which you choose will depend on the size of the gaps between your tiles. Use sanded grout for gaps bigger than 3mm and unsanded grout for smaller gaps. Mix the grout. Mix the grout according to the packaging directions. You might want to mix in additives to make it more water resistant or add color that matches better with your tile. Only mix as much as you can apply in about 20 minutes, since you don't want it drying out. Spread the grout. Using a grout float, spread the grout over the area to be grouted (working in a small area at a time, again). Hold the float at a 45 degree angle and spread across the gaps at an angle as well. Spreading parallel to the grout lines can gouge out the grout. Remove as much of the excess from the tile faces using the grout float as you can at this time. Let the grout sit for 20 minutes. Let the grout cure for 20 minutes. Clean the grout. Using a damp sponge, gently wipe down the tiles and grout lines to remove the excess. Clean just a small area, rinse, wring, and start again. You want to keep the sponge as clean and dry as possible. Let the grout cure. Leave the grout to cure for 3 hours before starting the next section. Repeat until the surface is grouted. Keep repeating this process until the entire surface is done. You might want to clean off any remaining residue once the grout has cured using an old sock or dry rag. Seal the grout. Seal the grout and then reseal the grout every six months. Each sealant is different but generally they are a wax-like substance which you apply to a rag or sponge and then rub into the grout in a circular motion.

Make sure your base is strong. Install cement board. Check for level as you go. Reinforce the joints. Create the guide lines. Dry fit the tiles to test your pattern. Prepare your mortar. Spread your mortar. Lay your tiles. Insert the spacers as you go. Level the tiles as you go. Cut tiles for the edges. Remove your spacers before doing the grout. Choose a grout. Mix the grout. Spread the grout. Let the grout sit for 20 minutes. Clean the grout. Let the grout cure. Repeat until the surface is grouted. Seal the grout.

https://www.wikihow.com/Do-an-Upside-Down-Question-Mark

How to Do an Upside Down Question Mark

*On Windows, hold down Alt + Ctrl + Shift and press ? when using Word.

Open Start . Click the Windows logo in the bottom-left corner of the screen. Type in character map. This will search your computer for the Character Map app. Click Character Map. It's a pyramid-shaped icon at the top of the Start window. The Character Map app will open. Check the "Advanced view" box. You'll find this in the bottom-left corner of the Character Map window. Additional options will appear below it. Click the "Search for" text field. It's at the bottom of the window. Type inverted question mark into the text field. Make sure to spell this correctly. Click Search. It's to the right of the text field. Doing so will bring up the inverted question mark icon. Click ¿. It should be the only character on the map, so you'll find it in the upper-left corner of the window. Click Select, then click Copy. Both options are in the lower-right side of the window. Doing so copies the inverted question mark. Go to where you want to post the question mark. Open a document or click a text field (e.g., a Facebook post field) to place your cursor there. Paste in the upside-down question mark. Press Ctrl + V to prompt the question mark to appear in the document or text field, or right-click the document or text field and click Paste in the drop-down menu. Use the keyboard shortcut. Hold down Alt + Ctrl + ⇧ Shift while you press the ? key to cause an upside-down question mark to appear in your selected text area. When using the keyboard shortcut, make sure that you press down on ⇧ Shift after pressing down on Alt and Ctrl. Go to where you want to post the question mark. Open the app, document, or website into which you want to type an inverted question mark, then click the text box or location where the question mark will go. Click Edit. It's a menu item in the upper-left side of the screen. A drop-down menu will appear. Click Emoji & Symbols. This option is at the bottom of the Edit drop-down menu. The Character Viewer window will open. Click the "Expand" icon. It's a box-shaped icon in the top-right corner of the Character Viewer window. Click Punctuation. You'll see this tab in the lower-left side of the window. Double-click ¿. It's at the top of the Character Viewer window. This will type the inverted question mark into your selected text field. Use the keyboard shortcut. Hold down ⌥ Option + ⇧ Shift and tap ? while your cursor is in a text field to insert an inverted question mark. Pressing all three of these keys together at the exact same time will create a division symbol instead. Go to where you want to post the question mark. Open the app in which you want to enter the question mark, then tap the text field in which you want to post the question mark to bring up the keyboard. Tap 123. It's in the lower-left corner of the keyboard. This will change the keyboard's text to numbers and basic symbols. Find the question mark icon. You'll find this icon in the bottom row of keys. Tap and hold ?. A pop-up menu with an upside-down question mark in it will appear after a brief moment. Do this lightly, as pressing and holding too hard will activate 3D Touch, not the alternative keys menu. Swipe up and over to select ¿. Without removing your finger from the screen, slide your finger over to the upside-down question mark to select it. Remove your finger. You should see the inverted question mark appear in the selected text field. Go to where you want to post the question mark. Open the app in which you want to enter the question mark, then tap the text field in which you want to post the question mark to bring up the keyboard. Tap ?123 or ?1☺. It's in the lower-left side of the keyboard. Doing so brings up the numbers and symbols view. Find the question mark icon. You'll typically find this in the second row of symbols, above the space bar row. Long-press ?. Doing so will prompt a pop-up menu to appear. Select ¿ in the pop-up menu. Drag your finger up to the inverted question mark to select it. Release your finger. This will type the inverted question mark into your selected text field.

Open Start . Type in character map. Click Character Map. Check the "Advanced view" box. Click the "Search for" text field. Type inverted question mark into the text field. Click Search. Click ¿. Click Select, then click Copy. Go to where you want to post the question mark. Paste in the upside-down question mark. Use the keyboard shortcut. Go to where you want to post the question mark. Click Edit. Click Emoji & Symbols. Click the "Expand" icon. Click Punctuation. Double-click ¿. Use the keyboard shortcut. Go to where you want to post the question mark. Tap 123. Find the question mark icon. Tap and hold ?. Swipe up and over to select ¿. Remove your finger. Go to where you want to post the question mark. Tap ?123 or ?1☺. Find the question mark icon. Long-press ?. Select ¿ in the pop-up menu. Release your finger.

https://www.wikihow.com/Adopt-a-Rabbit-from-a-Shelter

How to Adopt a Rabbit from a Shelter

Once you've found a rabbit adoption shelter, go and look around so you can spend time with the rabbits and choose one suitable for you and your home. If you've never owned a rabbit before, choose a smaller breed like a Netherland Dwarf or Dutch, since they will be easier to take care of. Alternatively, you might consider a larger breed like a Californian, Flemish Giant, or Angora, which may require more care and maintenance. Pay attention to the rabbit's personality so you can make the right choice, since a playful rabbit will require more attention than one which doesn't like being petted. Before you choose, examine the health of the rabbit by checking it's coat, teeth, claws, eyes, and body, since you'll want to make sure it is healthy.

Start with your local shelter. Your local animal shelter is the best place to start looking. Do a google search or visit the Petfinder website to find an animal shelter near you. Shelters typically receive a lot of rabbits a few weeks after Easter. This is an ideal time to find a rabbit to adopt. It is unlikely, but if the shelter does not have any rabbits, ask them to put you on the waiting list so you can be notified. Contact a rabbit rescue group. If you are unable to adopt from a shelter, a rabbit rescue group is a good alternative. Many rescue groups are affiliated with local animal shelters. Like shelters, rescue groups take very good care of the rabbits until they can find a home for them. Visit the House Rabbit Society webpage to find a rescue group in your area. If you adopt through a rescue group, find out as much information about the organization as possible. Ask some questions such as: What is their adoption policy? How do they decide which rabbits are adoptable and which rabbits are not? How do they care for the animals? Do they offer any post-adoption services? Rabbits that are found by rescue groups may be living in a foster home with a volunteer. Visit the shelter. Once you have found a shelter, go and look around. Pay attention to how the rabbits are housed. The rabbits should be indoors and in a cat room or in a separate room for small animals. Each cage should have: A litterbox Hay Food and water Rug Toys A card that details the rabbit's personality If the rabbits are not housed in a good environment, consider adopting from a different shelter. Ask about adoption policies. Adoption policies will vary at each shelter. It is important that you understand and are comfortable with the policy before you begin the adoption process. Some questions you may ask include: What is the adoption fee? What is included in the adoption fee (e.g. medical exam, spay and neutering, etc.)? What paperwork is required? Are there any post-adoption services? How long is the adoption process? Ask about the rabbit's previous living conditions. Your rabbit lived a life before it arrived at the shelter. It may have been abused, abandoned, or neglected. These factors can impact how you will care for your rabbit and the personality of your rabbit. Knowing the history of the rabbit will help you decide if it is the right rabbit for you. Also ask if the rabbit was housed indoors or outdoors. Outdoor rabbits are more susceptible to diseases from insects and parasites, poisonous plants, loneliness, and isolation. If a rabbit lived in a rough environment, it may need more care and attention. Learn the rabbit's personality. Spend time with the rabbit to determine its personality. Also ask the shelter staff about the rabbit's personality. A rabbit's personality determines the type of relationship you will have with your pet. If you like a lot of interaction, look for a rabbit that is more playful and enjoys a lot of attention. You may have to visit the rabbit multiple times before you get an idea of its personality. Go with your gut when choosing a rabbit. Do you feel a connection to the rabbit? Are you drawn to the rabbit and vice versa? Does the rabbit enjoy being petted? Does the rabbit take a while to warm up to you? If there are other people in your house, all of you should spend time with the rabbit. See how the rabbit behaves both inside and outside of the cage. Examine the health of the rabbit. Ask about the health history of the rabbit, and then examine the rabbit yourself. Check the coat, teeth, claws, eyes, and body of the rabbit. The coat should be glossy and clean. There should be no visible wounds or abscesses on the body. The teeth and ears should be clean, and the rabbit's eyes should be bright. There should be no discharge coming from the nose, eyes, or ear. Teeth and claws should be trimmed. None of the fur should be matted. Check the fur under the tail for matting and discoloration. These are signs that the rabbit may have diarrhea. Ask if the rabbit has been spayed and neutered. Determine the breed of the rabbit. If you are an inexperienced rabbit owner, small and medium breeds (e.g. Netherland Dwarf and Dutch) are best. If you have experience, you may consider a larger breed (e.g. Californian, Flemish Giant, or Angora). Two breeds of rabbits require extra attention: English lops have long ears that drag on the ground and are prone to infection and injury. Angoras have very long hair, are prone to hairballs, and require a lot of daily maintenance. Consider the age of the rabbit. The ideal age to adopt is between 9 and 12 weeks of age. At this age, rabbits are easy to handle and train. However, young rabbits like to explore and do not want to held a lot. If you have young children, a baby bunny is not a good idea. A rabbit's personality also changes a lot during the first year of life due to hormone changes and growth. An older rabbit is more stable and predictable. Fill out an application. Once you have found a rabbit, it is time to fill out the application. The application will ask you a variety of questions. Always provide honest answers. Typical information you will need to provide includes: The rabbit that you are interested in. Household information (e.g. location, landlord permission, number of people in the house, children in the house, family allergies) Why do you want to adopt a rabbit? Who will be the primary caregiver for the rabbit? Do you have everything you need for the rabbit? Are there other animals in the home? Is your home rabbit proofed? How will you feel if your rabbit chews things and/or poops and urinates outside of the litter box? Under what circumstances would you get rid of/return the rabbit? Do you have a rabbit veterinarian in place? If the shelter does not feel like you are ready to be a rabbit owner, you may not be able to adopt a rabbit yet. Pay your adoption fee. Be prepared to pay your adoption fee on the same day as the adoption. Some shelters will not hold your rabbit for you. If you are not prepared to pay, someone else may adopt the rabbit you have chosen. Adoption fees can vary widely. Some shelters just simply ask for a recommended donation while others have a set price. Some shelters will even provide you with a cage with a small donation. Some places may offer a discount if you buy a pair of rabbits instead of just one. Use post-adoption services. Many shelters offer post-adoption services. Take advantage of these resources because they can help you take care of your rabbit. Typical post-adoption services include reduced-cost medical care, rabbit training tips, and recommendations and referrals to other resources for your rabbit. During the first week when you bring your rabbit home, you may notice a health condition (e.g. parasite, infections, etc.) that was acquired while living in the shelter. Call the shelter immediately and let them know. They may treat your rabbit for free. Your shelter is always a resource if you have questions about your rabbit so stay in contact with them.

Start with your local shelter. Contact a rabbit rescue group. Visit the shelter. Ask about adoption policies. Ask about the rabbit's previous living conditions. Learn the rabbit's personality. Examine the health of the rabbit. Determine the breed of the rabbit. Consider the age of the rabbit. Fill out an application. Pay your adoption fee. Use post-adoption services.

https://www.wikihow.com/Fake-a-Smile

How to Fake a Smile

It can be easy to spot the difference between a fake smile and a real one, so if you want to master a fake smile, you'll need to make it as realistic as possible. Start by relaxing your face, then draw up the corners of your mouth. You should feel the smile extend up into your cheeks, which will naturally part your lips a bit. Since a natural smile lights up your entire face, raise your eyebrows a little as you slightly squint your eyes. To avoid tensing up, rest the very tip of your tongue behind your upper front teeth. Another way that you can fake a smile is to think of a happy memory or a funny joke.

Take a few deep breaths so you feel relaxed. If you're in a situation where you need to fake a smile, take a moment to try to relax. If you're tense, your muscles will stiffen and your smile will look forced. Before you smile, take a deep breath or two and try to clear your mind so you can be as relaxed as possible. You might not have a lot of time before you have to fake smile, but it doesn't take long to take a nice, deep breath. Draw up the corners of your mouth. The most obvious part of a smile is to curl up the corners of your mouth, creating a smiley-face curve with your lips. You should feel the smile extend up and out into your cheeks. The muscles that you use to control a smile are called the zygomatic major. Don't pinch your mouth shut. As you're drawing up your cheeks to form your smile, try to keep your mouth relaxed, or else the smile will look forced. Part your lips slightly as you smile, or open your lips a little wider to show off a toothy grin! Bring the smile into your eyes. A natural smile will affect your whole face, including your eyes. When you're practicing a realistic smile, the corners of your eyes should crinkle slightly. The muscles used here are called the orbicularis oculi, and while you can't contract them voluntarily, you can mimic a realistic smile by squinting slightly. In addition to squinting the muscles around your eyes, you may want to slightly raise your eyebrows. Say a word that ends in "uh" instead of saying "cheese. " You've probably heard the phrase “Say Cheese!” a million times before taking a picture, but this won't give you a realistic smile. That's because you clench your jaw when you say the word “cheese,” and the ee sound stretches your mouth. Instead, say a word ending in “uh,” like “karma” or “mocha.” Words ending in the syllable "uh" will create a more natural, relaxed expression that resembles a real smile. Put your tongue behind your upper front teeth to make your smile look natural. This trick, often used by fashion models, helps keep you from tensing up your smile. Since your face looks more relaxed, your smile will appear more natural. This is a great trick if you need to fake a smile for a photo, but it works in real life too. For the most relaxed results, just rest the very tip of your tongue against the back of your front top teeth. Practice smiling in front of a mirror every day. If you practice smiling for a few minutes every day, eventually it will become easier, and you'll look more natural. As you're looking in the mirror, think of something that makes you genuinely smile. Pay attention to how the muscles in your face feel, especially around your eyes. When you need to fake a smile, try to recreate that feeling! By seeing yourself smile in the mirror, you can get more comfortable with your smile. Don't worry if you don't have perfect teeth or if your cheeks look round when you're smiling. A nice smile will make you more attractive, no matter what. For even more practice, smile at random strangers throughout the day. Think of a happy memory to create a peaceful smile. No matter how much you practice, the best smile is a real one. When you need to show off a bright, genuine smile, think of a time when you were really happy. Think of something nice someone did for you, something you did that made you feel proud, or just a time when you were having fun and laughing with your friends or family. For example, you might think about the time you aced a really tough test, a great day with your friends, or your favorite birthday. Once you have that moment, let it fill you up until you start to naturally smile. If you're having trouble thinking of a happy time, try to imagine all of the people you're with wearing silly outfits, like chicken costumes or pirate hats! The more serious the situation, the better this will work! Remember a funny joke to smile more brightly. Smiling and laughing go hand in hand, so if you can think of something funny, you'll be more likely to smile! You could think of something funny that happened to you, something you read, or something that you saw on TV. As long as it makes you laugh, it will work! If you have a minute to prepare, try looking up some memes on your phone, or read through some texts with one of your funniest friends. Imagine spending time with people you love if you need more help. Nothing will put a smile on your face faster than seeing someone you love. If you need to fake a smile, just take a moment to imagine that you're surrounded by the people who mean the most to you. This can look different for everyone. You might picture your grandma with a plate full of cookies, or you might think about holding hands with your spouse on an early date. Just let the pleasant memories come to you. Picture a cute animal if you can't think of anything else. If you're a pet lover, this is sure to produce an instant smile! There's just something about the antics of cute animal that creates delight in most people. Just imagine a cute, fuzzy animal, then imagine yourself playing with it, talking to it, and having it show you affection. As soon as you feel your face light up, you're good to go! You might picture a soft, fluffy kitten rubbing its face on your hand, a sweet pup asking for a belly rub, or even an iguana giving you kisses if that's what you like. This happy reaction to pets is the reason that therapy animals have become so popular in recent years!

Take a few deep breaths so you feel relaxed. Draw up the corners of your mouth. Don't pinch your mouth shut. Bring the smile into your eyes. Say a word that ends in "uh" instead of saying "cheese. Put your tongue behind your upper front teeth to make your smile look natural. Practice smiling in front of a mirror every day. Think of a happy memory to create a peaceful smile. Remember a funny joke to smile more brightly. Imagine spending time with people you love if you need more help. Picture a cute animal if you can't think of anything else.

https://www.wikihow.com/Ensure-That-Your-Cat-Finishes-Its-Food

How to Ensure That Your Cat Finishes Its Food

To ensure that your cat finishes its food, try changing up its food bowl, since cats can be pretty particular about what they eat from. To do this, try washing the bowl and moving it to a new location to make it more appealing to your cat. If your cat still won't finish its food, try gradually changing its diet to give it new, interesting food without upsetting its stomach. For example, if it gets bored of eating dry food, try mixing in a spoonful of wet food with the dry food at meal time to entice it to eat more.

Swap the old food bowl for a new one. Your cat may avoid eating based on the shape or size of its food bowl. Exactly what your cat doesn't like about a particular food bowl will depend on your cat's specific preferences. Try offering food in a new food bowl that has different features from the first to encourage your cat to start eating more easily. For example, if the original food bowl was large, opt for a smaller one. Swapping out a rectangular bowl for a circular one can let you know if the shape of the bowl was bothering your cat. Clean the food bowl. Both humans and cats dislike eating out of dirty bowls. Any leftover food can give off smells that will make your cat less likely to eat its food. If your cat's bowl hasn't been cleaned in a while, you can give it a quick wash to help make it more appealing to your cat. You can wash the cat's bowl with soap and water. Make sure you clean out any old food that may have become stuck to the bowl. Fully rinse all soap off from the bowl and make sure it is completely dry before using it again. Move the food bowl. The location of the food bowl is important when trying to get your cat to eat more of its food. Cats prefer clean and quiet places to eat, free from loud noises, bad smells and other animals. Check the location of the food bowl and move it if needed to help your cat recover its appetite. Make sure the food bowl is in a quiet place. Keep the food bowl away from the litter box. Change the consistency of the food. Your cat may have gotten tired of a certain food or type of food. Your cat may have been fed dry food for a while and could now be craving something with a higher moisture content. On the other hand, your cat may be tired of wet food and wanting its old style dry food back. Whatever the case, try adding in food that has a different consistency than normal to encourage your cat to eat more of it. The main styles of cat food are dry, semi-moist, moist and wet. You can try adding wet food to your cat's meals to see if it prefers that style of food. You can add water to dry food to help change the consistency of it. Warming the food up to room temperature can also help catch your cat's interest. Try offering a new type of food. Not unlike humans, cats can enjoy variety in their diet. If your cat has suddenly stopped eating as much as they used to, you may want to switch the food you offer. Changing the food to new flavors and ingredients can make your cat interested again and get them hungry for more. Try adding new types of food to your cat's regular meals and watch to see which types of food it seems to prefer the most. Try offering food with new ingredients and flavors and taking note of which ones your cat eats more of. Whenever possible, try to offer the freshest food you can. If you are concerned about quality, try looking for AAFCO certification. Keep your cat's food fresh. If your cat's food has gone stale, they may not want to eat all of it at meal times. To help encourage your cat to eat, you'll want to keep its food as fresh as possible. Try using some of these tips to help keep your cat's food fresh and appetizing: Try to avoid buying more food than you need. Ideally, your cat should eat all of the food before the expiration date. It can be a good idea to buy small amounts of different foods. This will allow you to switch which foods you offer on a regular basis. Wet foods can be stored in Tupperware and refrigerated. Try warming the food up before serving it to make it more appealing. Offer less food at once. You'll want to pay attention to how much food you are offering your cat. Offering too much food can cause the excess to go to waste. Your cat may be eating plenty of food, but it may appear as if they are going hungry because of the leftovers. Make sure you are feeding your cat the appropriate amount of food to gauge exactly how much they are eating or not eating. The best amount of food to feed your cat will vary depending on its size, age and activity levels. Ask your veterinarian for the optimum amount of food you should be feeding your cat. Make changes to your cat's diet slowly. Whenever you are adding new types of food to your cat's diet, doing so slowly can help your cat adjust. Changes made too quickly can make your cat uncomfortable and may actually result in it eating less. Slowly add new food to your cat's diet to help encourage them to eat more and learn what they enjoy. Start by mixing in only a small amount of the new food to their usual meal. Gradually increase the amount of the new food you offer while reducing the old food. Eventually your cat will only be eating the new food. If your cat doesn't seem to be eating the new food, slowly return to the original food before trying another food. Learn what's normal for your cat. All cats will have different eating habits. These habits may also change throughout your cat's life. It can be useful to know what amount of food your cat normally eats to allow you to look for any abnormal behavior. Changes in appetite can indicate a health issue or may be something more minor that needs addressing. Keep track of your cat's eating habits and learn more about what's normal for it to better understand how you can help. Older cats will not eat as often or as much as younger cats will. If your cat suddenly stops eating as much, schedule a visit with your vet. You may be offering too much food and your cat may too full to eat all of it. Check for signs of health issues. If your cat suddenly starts eating less food than it normally does, it may be an indication that there is a health issue. Appetite and the ability to eat can be affected by a number of different ailments. If you suspect your cat has fallen ill, it's time for a visit to the vet. Loss of appetite may indicate some of these following problems: Anemia Ulcers in the mouth Stomach acid or urea buildup Problems with teeth or gums Constipation Issues with internal organs Take your cat to the vet. If your cat has serious trouble eating its food, you will need to take it to your veterinarian. Your veterinarian will be able to determine the cause of your cat's changes in appetite. Working with your veterinarian can also help you address health issues quickly and prevent them from becoming more serious. Speak with your veterinarian today if you think your cat has had a sudden or drastic change in its appetite.

Swap the old food bowl for a new one. Clean the food bowl. Move the food bowl. Change the consistency of the food. Try offering a new type of food. Keep your cat's food fresh. Offer less food at once. Make changes to your cat's diet slowly. Learn what's normal for your cat. Check for signs of health issues. Take your cat to the vet.

https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Woman-Pregnant

How to Get a Woman Pregnant

To get a woman pregnant, make sure you eat a balanced diet, rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, which will help improve your sperm count. In addition to eating a healthy diet, try to exercise for at least 3 hours a week, since this gives you a testosterone boost and a higher sperm count. Work with your partner to track her ovulation so you can figure out the best times to try and conceive. When your partner ovulates, try to have sex at least once a day during that week to improve your odds. Many couples don't get pregnant for a year or two, so don't be discouraged and keep trying.

Wear boxers instead of briefs to keep your testicles cool. Tight-fitting underwear can diminish your sperm count, probably due to your testicles being kept at a higher temperature from being closer to your body. If you're trying to conceive, opt for looser-fitting underwear instead. Avoid tight-fitting pants, hot tubs, and saunas for the same reason. It will take about 3 months for your sperm level to reach its maximum after you switch to boxers. Follow a healthy, balanced diet. To boost your sperm count, eat a healthy diet rich in vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins like chicken. In addition, eat fatty fish like salmon, tuna, and bluefin, which may have an increased effect on your sperm production. Opt for foods rich in antioxidants, like leafy greens and fresh fruits, to help improve your sperm count. Exercise for an hour at least 3 times a week. An active lifestyle is associated with higher sperm counts. This may be due to the testosterone boost that men get when they undergo intense physical activity. To make the most of this, exercise at least 3 times a week, although every day is even better. Strength-training exercises, especially weight-lifting, are especially effective at increasing testosterone. However, avoid bike riding as exercise, as this can actually decrease your sperm count. Being obese may lower your sperm count, so losing weight from eating healthy and exercising could also affect your sperm production. Exercise is also a great way to reduce stress. Since high stress levels can affect your sperm health, this could be yet another way that exercise helps your fertility. Stop smoking if you do. Smoking cigarettes can reduce your sperm count, which will make it more difficult for you and your partner to conceive. If you're having trouble quitting, try using patches, gum, or other smoking cessation aids to help you curb the urge. If over-the-counter options don't help, ask your doctor about prescription medication that may help you quit. Limit alcohol consumption to about 2 drinks a day if you drink. While there is some belief that alcohol consumption can decrease fertility, moderate alcohol use probably doesn't affect your sperm count much. If you do want to have a drink, try to limit it to 2 12  fl oz (350 mL) beers or 2 2  fl oz (59 mL) shots of liquor. Also, keep in mind that excessive alcohol consumption may affect your ability to maintain an erection during sex, which could affect your chances at conception. Talk to your doctor about your medication. Some medications can decrease your sperm count, including certain antibiotics, antipsychotics, corticosteroids, anabolic steroids, and methadone. If you're on one or more of these medications and you're struggling to conceive, ask your doctor if there's something else you can take instead. Visit an acupuncturist for a holistic approach. If you're open to the idea, research acupuncturists in your area and find one who's licensed and qualified. When you meet with the practitioner, let them know you're interested in having acupuncture to help boost your fertility. This will help them know where to place the needles for the best effect. Acupuncture involves having a licensed professional push extremely thin needles into strategic points on your body to balance your life force. Stop using any birth control. When you and your partner are ready to start trying to get pregnant, stop using condoms, and talk to her about stopping her hormonal birth control if she's on any. If she has an implanted contraceptive device, like an IUD or an implant in her arm, your partner will need to visit her doctor to have it removed. If your partner is on hormonal birth control, it could take up to 6 months for her hormone levels to regulate. Track your partner's ovulation each month. The best way to get a woman pregnant is to have sex with her around the time that she ovulates, or when she releases an egg. This typically occurs in between her menstrual cycles. You can use a calendar to keep up with the days, or you can use a fertility tracking app to help you both remember. You can also track fertility by measuring your partner's basal temperature once a day, or she can monitor her cervical mucus. Have sex at least once a day on her 6 most fertile days. Once you establish when your partner ovulates, try to have sex at least once a day during that week. Since your sperm can live for up to 5 days after ejaculation, having sex frequently during this time will help ensure there's viable sperm available when the egg arrives. Even when she's not ovulating, try to have sex about 2-3 times a week. Not only will each individual session increase the odds that you'll conceive, having a lot of sex can actually boost your sperm count. Avoid lubricants during sex. Lubricants may affect your sperm's movement, so try not to use them if you don't have to. If you do need lubricants to help with comfortable sex, ask your doctor about an option that won't affect your sperm. Popular lubricants like Astroglide and K-Y jelly may have an affect on how sperm function. Baby oil and canola oil are lubricating options that may work without affecting your sperm. See your doctor if you haven't conceived after a year of trying. Your general physician may order a semen analysis, which will check both your sperm count and the health of your sperm. If there are any problems, your doctor may refer you to a male fertility specialist. Your partner should arrange an appointment with her doctor at the same time to rule out any problems with her fertility. Keep trying! Don't get discouraged, even if it takes a while for your partner to get pregnant. Keep having frequent sex, and try not to put too much pressure on yourself. Many couples get pregnant in the first or second year of trying, but it's not uncommon for it to take longer than that.

Wear boxers instead of briefs to keep your testicles cool. Follow a healthy, balanced diet. Exercise for an hour at least 3 times a week. Stop smoking if you do. Limit alcohol consumption to about 2 drinks a day if you drink. Talk to your doctor about your medication. Visit an acupuncturist for a holistic approach. Stop using any birth control. Track your partner's ovulation each month. Have sex at least once a day on her 6 most fertile days. Avoid lubricants during sex. See your doctor if you haven't conceived after a year of trying. Keep trying!

https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Breastfeeding-a-Toddler

How to Stop Breastfeeding a Toddler

To stop breastfeeding a toddler, start by eliminating 1 nursing session a day for a period of 1 week. Then, eliminate 2 sessions a day for the following week, and so on, to gradually wean your toddler off of nursing. During the weaning process, try to avoid triggers that remind your baby of nursing, like sitting in the chair that you normally used for breastfeeding. Additionally, if your toddler asks to nurse, attempt to distract your child by going for a walk together or singing a song.

Start weaning at a time when things are calm. Don't start weaning when your child isn't feeling well or when your family is going through any kind of transition. That much change at once could feel overwhelming and scary to a small child, and they might be more resistant to weaning in general. For instance, it's probably best to wait a few weeks if you've recently gone back to work, moved to a new home, or had a new baby, or if your toddler has recently switched daycares or hasn't been feeling well. Explain what's going on to your child. Even if your toddler isn't talking much yet, they can still understand a lot of what you say. Talk to them in simple language to prepare them for the idea of weaning, and give them plenty of reassurance that you'll still make time to cuddle and spend time together. For instance, you might say something along the lines of, "Mommy's milk is going away," or, "You're getting bigger and don't need to nurse anymore." You could follow that with something like, "But, when we don't have to stop for milk, we'll have more times to play games and sing songs. What's your favorite game to play with me?" Introduce new breastfeeding limits. At the start of weaning, explain to your child that from now on, there will be new times for nursing. Explain any changes you're making that revolve around breastfeeding, then stick with the new rules. However, you don't have to make this a big deal—try to say it casually, so your child will be more likely to roll with the changes. For instance, you might say, "I'm so proud of how much you're growing! Since you're such a big kid now, I'm going to give you a sippy cup of milk for snack time from now on!" If you'll be making any other changes to help make weaning easier, like not breastfeeding when you're out of the house, or only breastfeeding in a certain area, explain that too. Limiting your nursing sessions to certain times or places may help ease the transition. Reduce the number of nursing sessions one at a time. Think about all the times that your toddler nurses during the day. Then, choose one feeding at a time to eliminate. Find something to do to occupy your toddler when they would normally be nursing, and wait about a week for them to adjust to the change. Then, cut out another daily feeding at a time until you've weaned your toddler completely. For instance, if your baby normally nurses first thing in the morning, after lunch, in the early evening, and before bed, you might skip the feeding after lunch. A slow and gradual cessation is better for both you and your baby. Abruptly ceasing all nursing sessions can be upsetting, and it can even make you more susceptible to developing a clogged breast duct, inflammation, or the painful breast infection mastitis. Shorten each breastfeeding session by a few minutes at a time. As you gradually cut down on your nursing sessions each day, you can also shorten the remaining sessions. Pay attention to how long your child normally nurses. Then, keep an eye on the clock and try to cut 1-2 minutes off of each feeding. Wait a few days, then cut another 1-2 minutes off. This will make weaning easier on your body, since you're gradually reducing your milk supply. It may also help your toddler wean more easily, since they'll learn that they won't get full at each feeding. Let your child ask to nurse, rather than you offering. Sometimes the easiest way to wean your child is to let them run the show. Try simply not offering your breasts to your child anymore. If they ask to nurse at one of their normal times, let them, but try to stick to your normal schedule, and let it be their idea. You know your child best, so pay attention to how they're coping with the changes. For instance, if they seem more clingy or anxious than usual, or if they start throwing more tantrums or regressing on things like potty training or sleeping through the night, you may need to add one feeding back for a week or two. Give your baby extra attention and affection during weaning. Recognize that your baby will be affected by the weaning process as well. They may have outbursts of anger, or they may be especially clingy and anxious. Try to be patient, and give them as much reassurance as you can so they can navigate the change confidently. For instance, you might create a new bedtime ritual where you sing a song, read a book, and cuddle every night. Have a celebration the day you stop nursing for good. When you've cut back on nursing enough that the end is in sight, try setting a special day to be the end of nursing. That day, have a small celebration, with a special treat like cupcakes or ice cream. That can help your child think of weaning as something special and positive, rather than a negative event. Try saying something like, "Ok Hannah, let's pick a day next week to stop nursing. We'll have a party that day! What do you think about Thursday?" You can even circle the day on the calendar so you have something to look forward to. Distract your baby when you're skipping a feeding. If your toddler wants to nurse but it's a feeding you've already eliminated, do your best to keep them busy during that time. Fortunately, toddlers are easily distracted, so it might only take going for a walk or taking a ride in the car. You could also sing a song your toddler loves, play a silly game, or call a family member for a chat. Be creative and do whatever it takes to change their focus. Since your child probably associates cuddling with nursing, it's best to do something that will get them up and moving. Try not to change your clothes in front of your toddler. While you're weaning your baby, it's best to avoid letting them see your bare breasts, since that will likely trigger them to want to nurse. Try to avoid getting undressed in front of your child, and avoid bathing or showering with them through the weaning process. If you and your family are normally comfortable changing in front of each other, this change doesn't have to be forever. Just take a break while you're weaning. Hold your toddler in a different position. If you normally sit with your toddler cradled against your body when you're nursing, try your best to avoid that position while you're weaning. That way, your child won't naturally expect to feed, which could help you sidestep a tantrum. Instead, you might sit with them perched on your knees, you could have your child sit beside you, or you might try standing up more often. Change up your schedule to avoid your regular nursing routine. If there's anything that you normally did while you were nursing, like sitting in a certain chair or going into a certain room, try to avoid that as much as possible. By changing up your schedule and staying away from things that would normally trigger your child to want to nurse, you may be able to help keep nursing off their mind a little longer. For instance, if your child normally nurses just after lunch, you might plan a trip to the grocery store or the park during that time. Help your baby fall asleep when you're cutting bedtime feedings. Weaning your baby from nighttime feedings can be the hardest, because they typically use those as a way to fall asleep. If they seem to have trouble falling asleep, try going for a quiet drive around bedtime, or give them a cup of warm milk and sing their favorite song. Be patient—your child may need a few days to get used to a new routine if they're used to nursing themselves to sleep, but they'll get the hang of it and so will you. Swap out the breast for a bottle if your toddler is younger. If you'd like your toddler to continue drinking breastmilk, or if you'd prefer to switch to cow's milk, try offering them a bottle when you would normally breastfeed them. Of course, keep in mind that you'll still have to wean your baby off of the bottle when the time comes. However, if you're having trouble weaning them off of your breast, this may help make the transition easier. Sometimes breastfed babies will reject a bottle, but if you give them one when they're playing or riding in a stroller, they may be more open to accepting it. Give your toddler a tasty drink in a sippy cup. Replace a breastfeeding session with a cup of milk, no-sugar-added fruit juice, or even a healthy fruit smoothie. If your toddler is interested enough with what's in their cup, they may hardly notice that they didn't nurse. For instance, you might make a smoothie by blending a banana, a few strawberries, and a splash of milk until it's smooth. Just make sure it's thin enough to go through the sippy cup nozzle! If it isn't, add more milk to adjust the consistency. Offer healthy snacks to your baby. Yummy snacks are a distraction to your baby, and they may easily forget their desire to nurse at the moment if they see their favorite snack get pulled out of the cabinet. In addition, giving your baby healthy snacks will help replace some of the nutrients they're no longer getting from breastmilk. For instance, you might offer your baby fresh fruit, yogurt, or whole-grain toast with peanut butter. Express 1–2  fl oz (30–59 ml) of milk if your breasts are engorged. When you're weaning your child, your body will still produce breast milk. This can sometimes be uncomfortable, especially when your breasts become full. To help relieve your discomfort, use your hands or a pump to release a small amount of milk from your breasts. Do not remove too much milk, as this will only make the body think it needs to produce more milk. Try massaging your breasts in the shower if they feel very tender or full. Apply cold compresses to your breasts if they become sore. If your breasts are swollen and painful and expressing them hasn't helped, try making your own cold compress. Dip a washcloth in ice water, then drape it over your breast. Do the same for the other breast, and leave it in place for about 10-15 minutes. You can repeat this every hour or so, as needed. Alternatively, try placing a few cabbage leaves on the breasts. Cabbage leaves are helpful with pain relief and the milk cessation process. Be patient with yourself if you feel emotional or upset. When you stop breastfeeding, the hormones in your body may shift. These hormonal changes can sometimes affect your moods, so be prepared for a bit of an emotional roller coaster as your body adjusts to the change. In addition to the hormonal shifts, you may also feel mixed emotions about ending the special nursing bond with your baby. This is totally normal! Just remember that you're building a new relationship with your big kid, and they'll still love you just as much. Avoid feeling guilty for weaning your baby. When your baby pleads with you to nurse, you might struggle with feeling heartbroken, frustrated, or even selfish. However, keep in mind that your toddler will adjust to the new feeding schedule soon, and congratulate yourself that you were able to keep nursing into toddlerhood! If you're overwhelmed by feelings of guilt, sadness, anxiety, or depression, it could be depression due to the hormonal changes in your body. Talk to your doctor about what you're feeling.

Start weaning at a time when things are calm. Explain what's going on to your child. Introduce new breastfeeding limits. Reduce the number of nursing sessions one at a time. Shorten each breastfeeding session by a few minutes at a time. Let your child ask to nurse, rather than you offering. Give your baby extra attention and affection during weaning. Have a celebration the day you stop nursing for good. Distract your baby when you're skipping a feeding. Try not to change your clothes in front of your toddler. Hold your toddler in a different position. Change up your schedule to avoid your regular nursing routine. Help your baby fall asleep when you're cutting bedtime feedings. Swap out the breast for a bottle if your toddler is younger. Give your toddler a tasty drink in a sippy cup. Offer healthy snacks to your baby. Express 1–2  fl oz (30–59 ml) of milk if your breasts are engorged. Apply cold compresses to your breasts if they become sore. Be patient with yourself if you feel emotional or upset. Avoid feeling guilty for weaning your baby.

https://www.wikihow.com/Read-Blood-Pressure

How to Read Blood Pressure

To get a blood pressure reading, place the cuff directly above the crook of your elbow. Make sure you are sitting upright in a supported chair and keep the arm with the cuff at heart level. After taking a few minutes to relax, inflate the cuff, wait until it deflates,, and then remove it. Note the top and bottom numbers, which you will see on your monitor, and include the date and time of the test. Try to conduct tests at a similar time each day for best results.

Measure at the same time every day. Test your blood pressure at the same time every day. This helps ensure the most accurate reading. Consider measuring your blood pressure when you are most relaxed — in the mornings and evenings. You may also want to ask your doctor the best time to run the test for your purposes. Get ready to monitor your blood pressure. Different factors can influence your blood pressure. Getting yourself ready to take the reading can ensure you get the most accurate readings. Before you test: Make sure you've been awake and out of bed for at least 30 minutes. Stay away from food and beverages 30 minutes before the test. Avoid caffeine and tobacco for 30 minutes before you test yourself. Avoid any type of physical activity or exercise for 30 minutes before testing. Make sure to empty your bladder. Make sure to read the device instructions before you do any testing. Sit properly for the test. It's important to maintain proper arm and body positioning before and during your test. Sitting in a supported and upright position helps ensure the most accurate reading. In addition, you may want to sit and relax for a few minutes to help stabilize your pressure and further prepare yourself to get an accurate reading. Avoid moving or talking when you're taking your blood pressure reading. Sit upright with your back supported. Place and keep your feet flat on the floor without crossing your legs. Place the cuff directly above the eye, or crook, of your elbow. Support the cuffed arm on a table, desk, or the arm of a chair. Keep it at the level of your heart by propping it up with a pillow or cushion. Inflate the cuff to test. After you're comfortable and have sat quietly for a few minutes, start the test. Turn on the machine or test as calmly as you can so that you don't elevate your pressure. Remove the cuff and/or abort the test if the cuff becomes uncomfortable, too tight or if you get lightheaded at any point. Remain calm. During the test, avoid moving or talking and remain as calm as possible. This can help you get the most accurate reading. Stay in the same position until the testing stops, the cuff deflates, or the monitor displays your blood pressure. Take off the cuff. Wait for the cuff to deflate and take it off your arm. Make sure to not move suddenly or quickly. You may be slightly lightheaded after you take off the cuff, but this sensation should go away relatively quickly. Do additional tests. Run one or two additional test after your first reading. This can ensure you get the most accurate blood pressure reading. Wait a minute or two in between each test. Follow the same procedure for each of the readings you do. Write down your results. It's important to record your test results when you're done with each test. Write down any relevant information in a notebook or save it in your monitor if possible. The results can help you figure out the most accurate reading of your pressure, identify potentially problematic fluctuation. Note the reading and the time and date of the test. For example, “January 5, 2016 at 6:20am 110/90.” Recognizing blood pressure reading features. Your blood pressure reading is made up of two numbers, a top and bottom one. The top number is called the systolic pressure and the bottom one is the diastolic. The systolic number shows how hard the pressure is when your heart has to pump blood, while the diastolic number is the pressure when your heart is resting between beats. Read the number as, for example, “110 over 90.” You may see a mmHg after the number, which stands for the millimeters of mercury, or the units used to measure your blood pressure. Be aware that most doctors will pay more attention to the systolic pressure (the first number), as it is a better measure of the risk for cardiovascular disease in people over the age of 50. The systolic number generally increases with age because of factors such as increasing stiffness in the large arteries, long-term build up of plaque, and increased frequency of cardiac and vascular diseases. Identify your systolic averages. You'll likely be checking your blood pressure every day over time. This may be because your doctor is concerned about your blood pressure and related cardiac or vascular diseases. Figuring out the general range of your systolic blood pressure can help you identify potential fluctuations and health issues. The categories of systolic pressure range are: Normal: less than 120 Prehypertension: 120 – 139 Stage One Hypertension: 140 – 159 Stage Two Hypertension: 160 or higher Hypertensive Crisis: higher than 180 Determine your diastolic averages. Even though doctors pay a little bit more attention to the systolic number, your diastolic number is also important. Watching the general range of your diastolic pressure can also indicate potential problems, including hypertension. The categories of diastolic pressure range are: Normal: less than 80 Prehypertension: 80 – 89 Stage One Hypertension: 90 – 99 Stage Two Hypertension: 100 or higher Hypertensive Crisis: higher than 110 Seek emergency care immediately in hypertensive crisis. Although most people will measure and watch blood pressure over time, there are some instances when a rapid spike in either systolic or diastolic pressure requires immediately medical attention. This can ensure that your blood pressure is brought back to normal and minimizes the risk of severe health consequences such as heart attack and damage to your organs. Take a second reading if you get one high reading. Seek immediate medical attention if second reading is a systolic pressure over 180 or a diastolic over 110. You may have one number high and the other one normal or both could be high. Either way, it's important to get medical attention as soon as possible. Be aware that you may experience physical symptoms such as severe headache, shortness of breath, nosebleeds, and severe anxiety with a high systolic or diastolic reading. Avoid neglecting very low-blood pressure readings. Most doctors don't consider low pressure (for example, a reading of 85/55) a problem unless it is accompanied by noticeable signs and symptoms. Just as with hypertensive crisis, take two readings if you have a very low reading. Contact your doctor as soon as possible if you have two low readings and any of the following symptoms: Dizziness or lightheadedness Fainting, or syncope Dehydration and unusual thirst Lack of concentration Blurred vision Nausea Cold, clammy, and pale skin Rapid, shallow breathing Fatigue Depression Watch results over time. In most cases, you'll be checking your blood pressure results over time. This can give you a sense of what is normal for you as well as factors that may contribute to it such as stress or activity. Keep your doctor informed of your readings as necessary or give her a copy of your records for your medical file. Keeping an eye on your average readings over time can also indicate possible problems for which you need medical attention. Be aware that one abnormal reading doesn't necessarily mean you have high or low blood pressure; however, if levels stay at the same reading over a few weeks or months, it's important to see your doctor to rule out underlying medical conditions. Remember to not wait too long to get medical attention so that you minimize the risk of serious health problems. See your doctor. Regular checkups are important to the health and wellbeing of any person. If you have issues with your blood pressure or notice fluctuations in your usual reading, this is especially true. If you have high or low blood pressure readings over the course of a few tests, schedule and appointment with your doctor. This can decrease the risk of developing conditions that can harm your heart and brain. Call your doctor if you have questions or are unsure of anything related to your blood pressure or readings your get. It's better to be safe than sorry.

Measure at the same time every day. Get ready to monitor your blood pressure. Sit properly for the test. Inflate the cuff to test. Remain calm. Take off the cuff. Do additional tests. Write down your results. Recognizing blood pressure reading features. Identify your systolic averages. Determine your diastolic averages. Seek emergency care immediately in hypertensive crisis. Avoid neglecting very low-blood pressure readings. Watch results over time. See your doctor.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Shish-Barak

How to Make Shish Barak

To make shish barak, start by frying onions and ground beef in a saucepan with your favorite spices. Once the meat is cooked through, set the saucepan aside and combine flour, salt, water, and sugar in a new bowl for the dumpling dough. After you've kneaded the dough, let it rest for about 10 minutes before rolling it out. Use a cookie cutter or jar lid to make small circles out of dough. Then, put about a half tablespoon of meat and onion into each circle and shape them into dumplings. When you've finished all of the dumplings, mix water and laban in a pot and stir it gently until it reaches a boil. While you're stirring the stew, fry some crushed garlic until golden in a saucepan, then mix it into the stew with mint powder and salt. To finish your shish barak, add the dumplings to the stew one by one, so they don't stick to the pan, and stir the stew for 15-20 minutes to cook them through.

Chop onions and put in a large frying pan. Drizzle the vegetable oil in the pan. Heat the stove to a low/medium temperature. Cook onions to a light brown. Add the ground beef and stir occasionally to keep the meat from burning. Cook for about 5 minutes and proceed. Add the spices and salt to the cooking meat. Let this combination cook for another 5 minutes, or until the meat is thoroughly cooked. Add pine nuts and continue to cook, while stirring frequently for about 3 more minutes. This will prevent the pine nuts from overcooking. Combine the dough ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Use a food processor (or knead with your hands) to thoroughly mix in each ingredient. Let the dough rest for about 10 minutes. Cover a clean, flat surface with flour. Clean a flat surface, like a kitchen table, and cover it with flour. Flatten the dough using a rolling pin to about 1/8th inches thick. Use a small bottle lid, or cookie cutter to cut the dough into small circles, a little bigger than a quarter. Fill the dough with meat. Put about a half of a tablespoon on top of each dough circle. Shape the dough with meat into small dumplings Pour 6 cups of water and 1 lb of Laban in a pot. Mix well until all laban is dissolved. Place on stove over medium-low heat and keep on stirring gently until it reaches a boil, at which time you turn the heat to low. Crush 2 cloves of garlic in a blender then add to small pan. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the cloves of garlic and turn the stove on low/medium heat. Cook the cloves of garlic until golden brown. Stir in the cloves of garlic to the stew. Stir in the dried mint powder. Add the desired amount to taste. Add the salt (to taste). Add the Shish Barak dumplings one by one to the mixture while stirring frequently. This is to avoid the dough sticking to the sides or bottom of the mixture. Bring the stew to a boil again and then stir gently on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the shish barak dumplings are cooked. Serve hot as a soup. This will serve approximately 4 people.

Chop onions and put in a large frying pan. Drizzle the vegetable oil in the pan. Heat the stove to a low/medium temperature. Cook onions to a light brown. Add the ground beef and stir occasionally to keep the meat from burning. Cook for about 5 minutes and proceed. Add the spices and salt to the cooking meat. Combine the dough ingredients in a large mixing bowl. Use a food processor (or knead with your hands) to thoroughly mix in each ingredient. Cover a clean, flat surface with flour. Flatten the dough using a rolling pin to about 1/8th inches thick. Use a small bottle lid, or cookie cutter to cut the dough into small circles, a little bigger than a quarter. Fill the dough with meat. Shape the dough with meat into small dumplings Pour 6 cups of water and 1 lb of Laban in a pot. Mix well until all laban is dissolved. Place on stove over medium-low heat and keep on stirring gently until it reaches a boil, at which time you turn the heat to low. Crush 2 cloves of garlic in a blender then add to small pan. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil to the cloves of garlic and turn the stove on low/medium heat. Cook the cloves of garlic until golden brown. Stir in the cloves of garlic to the stew. Stir in the dried mint powder. Add the salt (to taste). Add the Shish Barak dumplings one by one to the mixture while stirring frequently. Bring the stew to a boil again and then stir gently on low heat for 15-20 minutes until the shish barak dumplings are cooked. Serve hot as a soup.

https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-New-Navel-Piercing

How to Care for a New Navel Piercing

To take care of a navel piercing, do not remove your piercing for the first 10-14 weeks and check it frequently for infection. If you notice redness or severe itching, see your primary care doctor because you may be having an allergic reaction or have an infection. To keep your piercing clean, clean your piercing gently with antibacterial soap and dry it with a paper towel twice a day. You can also soak your piercing with salt water to help prevent infection.

Get your navel professionally pierced. Do your research to find a reputable piercing shop with trained, professional piercers. You can ask friends and family about the places they got their piercing done, and ask if they would recommend the place. You never want to skimp on the quality of the establishment or piercer you visit. The more professional the business and certified its employees, the less likely you'll experience problems or infections with your piercing. An experienced piercer could also offer expert advice on sizing, jewelry, and other questions you might have while getting your piercing done. Visiting a safe and reputable piercing shop will likely mean that the piercers use quality jewelry for their piercings. Quality piercing jewelry includes jewelry made from implant grade stainless steel, titanium, nickel-free 14-karat (or higher) solid white or yellow gold, and niobium just to name a few. A professional piercer will also use a hollow needle to create your piercing rather than a needle gun. If any piercing shop wants to use a needle gun to create your piercing, you should look elsewhere. Needle guns can damage the skin significantly, and are more likely to cause infections. Handle your piercing with clean hands. Wash your hands thoroughly with antibacterial soap and water before you touch your piercing with your fingers. Dirt and oils from your fingers can transfer to your piercing (which is an open wound), and potentially cause an infection. Try to make sure to use your nails to scrape out and remove any dirt from underneath your nails. Dirt from underneath your nails could also transfer to and infect your piercing as you touch it. Wash your piercing daily. Use a Q-Tip dipped in warm water to wipe and remove any built up crust from around the piercing site. Do this very gently, avoiding moving the jewelry around too much. Then, wash your piercing with antibacterial soap in the shower. Simply add a small amount of soap to your fingertips, and massage and lather the soap onto your piercing for about 20 seconds. Use the shower water to thoroughly rinse off the soap residue. Exit the shower and dry your piercing using a dry paper towel rather than a bath towel. Your piercing should be washed with soap twice a day. However, you can use a Q-Tip dipped in water or salt water to remove crust as well. Just try not to clean it with a Q-Tip more than 3 times a day. You want to avoid over cleaning the piercing. You should always shower rather than taking a bath. With a shower, you have a steady stream of clean water, whereas a bath contains standing water mixed with sweat, dirt, and residue from your bathing products. It's better to dry your piercing using paper towels, since they are clean and disposable. Bath towels, on the other hand, can harbor moisture and bacteria. Avoid twisting or turning your piercing too much while you clean it in the shower. Any excessive movement can cause irritation and bleeding. Rinse your piercing with saltwater. Mix ¼ teaspoon of sea salt into 8 oz of boiled water. Wait for the water to cool so it's warm, yet comfortable to the touch. Pour this salt water mixture into a small glass, lean over (so your stomach is relatively perpendicular to the top rim of the glass), securely put the glass on your stomach, and hold it tightly in place as you lay down on your back. Allow this vacuumed glass of salt water to soak on your piercing for 10-15 minutes at least once a day. The saltwater is highly effective in fighting off bacteria, and can help in removing crust from the piercing site. You could also make a warm compress with salt water and a folded up paper towel, or use a sterile sea-salt spray purchased from your local drug store. Take vitamins. Some piercing professionals have found that taking vitamins such as Vitamin C, Zinc, or multivitamins are beneficial in stimulating navel piercing healing. Getting vitamin D exposure from the sun may also help promote healing of your navel piercing. Keep from touching your piercing. Of course it's appropriate to touch your piercing with clean hands while you wash it, but avoid playing with, twisting, pulling, or fondling your piercing unnecessarily. Any excessive touching (especially with unwashed hands) can make your piercing more susceptible to opening up and bleeding, or becoming infected. Leave the jewelry in place. Your initially piercing jewelry should stay in place for the duration of the healing period (4-10 weeks). Removing your jewelry before your piercing is fully healed can cause your piercing site to close up, which can in turn make reinserting jewelry more difficult and painful. This added irritation could potentially create more scarring and slow down your body's natural healing process. Avoid applying ointments. Ointments or creams prevent your piercing from coming in contact with air, and breathing. They block out air and seal in moisture at the piercing site with potential bacteria. Even though these ointments might be antibacterial, they can extremely hinder the healing process, and yield an infection. Harsh cleansers like hydrogen peroxide and rubbing alcohol should also be avoided. These disinfectants can kill the cells that help rebuild the puncture site of the piercing. Cleaning solutions containing Benzalkonium Chloride (or BZK) should also be avoided, as these can similarly inhibit your piercing from properly healing. Much like these cleansers, any oils, lotions, sunscreens, and makeup should be kept away from your piercing site. These products can all clog your piercing and encourage an infection. Wear loose clothing. Tight, constricting clothing can irritate a new piercing because of the friction against the piercing, and its lack of access to fresh air. Try to wear loose-fitting, breathable fabrics like cotton, and stay away from synthetic materials. Also be cautious when changing or undressing. Removing your clothes roughly or quickly, increases your chances of snagging your piercing on your clothes, and causing injury. Stay away from unclean water. Just like you should avoid taking a bath and instead take a shower, you should also avoid other pools or collections of water. Water areas like swimming pools, hot tubs, and lakes and rivers should be avoided during the first year after your initial piercing. This is because all of these water sources could potentially make prolonged contact with your new piercing, with water that might be harboring infecting contaminants. Sleep on your back or sides. Sleep on your back and sides for the first few weeks after your piercing. This helps to ensure that you don't apply uncomfortable pressure on your piercing by sleeping on your stomach, while it's still new and sensitive. Evaluate your symptoms. If you are experiencing complications with your navel piercing, first assess your symptoms to figure out what issue you might be dealing with. Note any discharges coming from you piercing, the pain level you're experiencing, any swelling or redness, and any physical changes in the piercing site (like bumps forming, the jewelry changing position, skin opening larger than normal around the metal, etc.). Depending on your symptoms, your piercing may simply be irritated, infected, or you could be having an allergic reaction to the metal. The less severe your symptoms are, the more probable it is that you mildly irritated your piercing. The more severe your symptoms are, the more probable it is that your piercing is infected, or you're experiencing an allergic reaction. Deal with an irritated piercing. If your piercing was healing normally and you accidently pulled or tugged on it, slept on it, irritated it with pool water or cosmetics, and are now experiencing some discomfort, you may have slightly irritated your piercing. Your piercing site might also be irritated if the jewelry is too tight or too loose and is moving around too much or pinching your skin. An irritated piercing is indicated with mild discomfort and irritation symptoms. Things like slight swelling, slight redness, and slight discomfort (without severe pain and discharges) qualify as mild irritation symptoms. Maintain your cleaning routine with a saline solution, and treat your piercing as if it were brand new. Consider applying a cold compress (consisting of cool water and a small cloth or towel) onto your piercing. This may help relieve some discomfort. Leave the jewelry in your piercing. Removing the jewelry may irritate your piercing site even more. If you have any questions, consult your piercer, or visit them in person so they can look at your piercing. Deal with an infected piercing. It is normal to have some discomfort, bleeding, and bruising after getting your navel pierced, but you should also look out for signs of a possible infection. When a navel piercing gets infected, there is usually severe swelling and redness around the piercing site. The piercing site may feel warm or give off a feeling of heat, and can also have green, yellow, or gray discharge accompanied by a foul odor. You may also develop of fever with an infected navel piercing. If you believe that your navel piercing has become infected, see a physician as soon as possible. If you are not sure if your piercing is infected, you can contact your piercer to evaluate if your symptoms are normal, or correlative with an infection. Do not remove your piercing jewelry if you believe your piercing is infected. Removing your jewelry could irritate the infection and cause your piercing hole to close, preventing your piercing from properly draining. Deal with an allergic reaction. An allergic reaction might happen hours or days after your initial piercing. Normally, an allergic reaction is your body's response to being allergic to the jewelry's metal. Nickel is a common metal that causes an allergic reaction with piercings. Signs of an allergic reaction include itchiness around the piercing site that turns into a rash, heat radiating from the piercing site, a widened piercing hole, or swelling and inflammation around the piercing site. With an allergic reaction, your skin might also loosen or tighten around the jewelry. Rejection of the jewelry is a common characteristic with allergic reactions. The skin tries to decrease contact with the jewelry, causing the piercing holes to enlarge and widen. In this case, contact your piercer immediately so they can change out the jewelry and you can visit your primary doctor and start treating your piercing site. You may need a prescribed round of antibiotics. Try some home remedies. If your symptoms are initially mild in nature or think you might be in the beginning stages of an infection, consider trying some home remedies to fix the problem before having to consult a doctor. A few soothing home remedies include: Compresses. As mentioned earlier, both warm and cold compresses can relieve discomfort with irritated piercings. A warm compress dipped and wrung out with a saline solution can clean out the area while promoting blood flow (healing white blood cells) to the irritated area. A cool compress can soothe the hot feeling radiating from the piercing site. Chamomile tea soaks. Steep a bag of chamomile tea in a cup of boiling water. Wait for the tea to cool (approximately 20 mins) and dip a cotton ball into the tea. Use the cotton ball to soak your irritated piercing for approximately 5 minutes. Repeat this if desired at least once a day. You could also freeze the tea into ice cubes, and use the tea ice cubes to relieve pain, irritation, and swelling. Pain relief medications. If your piercing site is achy and painful, consider taking over the counter pain medication to reduce the discomfort. Try to stick to nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications. Visit your doctor. When in doubt, you should always visit your primary care doctor. If you aren't finding relief with your sustained cleaning routine or implementing home remedies, it may be time to seek professional medical help. You should especially visit your doctor if you are experiencing severe pain, swelling, discharge, and bleeding. If you do have an infection or allergic reaction, your doctor can prescribe antibiotics to fight the infection and speed up recovery.

Get your navel professionally pierced. Handle your piercing with clean hands. Wash your piercing daily. Rinse your piercing with saltwater. Take vitamins. Keep from touching your piercing. Leave the jewelry in place. Avoid applying ointments. Wear loose clothing. Stay away from unclean water. Sleep on your back or sides. Evaluate your symptoms. Deal with an irritated piercing. Deal with an infected piercing. Deal with an allergic reaction. Try some home remedies. Visit your doctor.

https://www.wikihow.com/Fill-Out-a-US-1040EZ-Tax-Return

How to Fill Out a US 1040EZ Tax Return

To fill out a US 1040EZ tax return, you must be under 65, not claiming dependents, and have income less than $100,000. If you qualify, obtain your W2 from your employer and use the information on it to fill out the tax return form. Then, follow the directions on the form to calculate your refund amount. Finally, sign your form and submit it by sending it to the appropriate address from the IRS.gov website.

Determine if you are eligible to use form 1040EZ. You can file the 1040EZ only if your filing status is single or married filing jointly, both taxpayers are under 65 and not blind, and you do not claim any dependents other than yourselves. Your total taxable income must be less than $100,000, and it must all be derived from wages, salaries, tips reported on your W-2 (usually not unreported tips), taxable scholarship or fellowship grants, unemployment compensation, Alaska Permanent Fund dividends, and/or taxable interest of $1,500 or less. The only tax credits you can claim on the 1040EZ are the Earned Income Credit and the Making Work Pay tax credit. If you fall outside of this description, you will need to file either the 1040 or the 1040A. Gather your W-2 forms. If you are employed, or have been at any point in the year, you'll need the W-2 sent by your employer. If you worked for several different employers over the course of the year, be sure that you go a W-2 from each employer. The forms should arrive before February 15. If you are filing after February 15 and you still don't have your W-2 Wage and Tax Statement, call the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and provide your name, full address, SSN, dates of employment, and your employer's name, full address, and phone. If you don't receive the W-2 within a reasonable period of time, file a substitute W-2. You can print off a blank W-2 at http://www.irs.gov/app/picklist/list/formsInstructions.html. Make sure you have figured the tax withheld, day for day, until December 31. If you have any forms used to report income other than W-2s, you'll need to use form 1040 instead. Obtain the 1040EZ form for the current tax year at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040ez.pdf. You can also get a copy at a local library or post office. If you need a form for a prior tax year, you can search for it at http://www.irs.gov/Forms-&-Pubs. Fill in the primary taxpayer’s full name and Social Security number on the top line. This should be your full, legal name, as matched to the records of both the Social Security Administration and IRS taxpayer records. If you are married filing jointly, it does not matter which name goes on top, so long as you file the same way each year. If you received a printed packet and the peel-off label is accurate, you can just peel off the label and stick it over this portion. If you are downloading the form or do not have a label, you will fill this out by hand. Fill in your spouse’s full, legal name and Social Security number, as matched to the records of both the Social Security Administration and IRS taxpayer records, on the second line. If you are single, leave the second line blank. Adding your spouse means you are filing "married filing jointly." Only your name means you are filing single. You cannot file "married filing separately," "head of household" or "qualifying widow(er)" with the 1040EZ form. Put your home street address on the third and fourth lines. If you have a PO box address and a street address, use the street address. You should only use a PO box address if your post office will not deliver mail to your home. If you live in a foreign country, fill in the information on the 5th line. If you live in the United States, leave that information blank. Check the "presidential election campaign" box (in the shaded area) if you like. If you check the box, $3 of the taxes you paid will be put in a special fund and distributed to serious presidential candidates who agree to limit campaign spending and refuse private donations. You will pay the same amount in taxes either way. Checking this box does not increase your tax nor decrease your refund. The $3 is paid for by the government. Enter your gross wages, salaries and tips. Look at your W-2 form(s) and find box 1. If you have more than one W-2 form, add the amounts in box 1 together and enter that amount in line 1 of the 1040EZ form. You should have received a W-2 from an employer. If you did not, contact that employer for a replacement. If you have no wages, salaries and/or tips, enter 0 (zero) on line 1. Enter your taxable interest on line 2, if you have any. Taxable interest is interest you receive from accounts you have with other people or institutions. For instance, if you have a bank account or investment account that pays you interest, that interest is usually taxable. If you loaned money to a friend and charged interest, that interest is taxable. You are required to report taxable interest regardless of whether you receive a 1099-INT, 1099-OID or any other tax document for that taxable interest. If you know you have taxable interest but are unsure of the amount, contact the institution that is paying that interest. If your total taxable interest is greater than $1,500, you can't use the form 1040EZ and must use either Form 1040 or 1040A. If your total taxable interest is $1,500 or less, enter that amount on line 2. If you have no taxable interest, enter 0 (zero) on line 2. Enter the amount you received in unemployment benefits on line 3 if you received any. If you did receive unemployment benefits, you should have received form 1099-G. If you did not receive that form, contact your local unemployment office for assistance including a replacement. If you are an Alaskan resident, you should have received form 1099-MISC for your Permanent Fund Dividend (PFD). If you did not, go to https://pfd.alaska.gov/Payments/TaxInformation to print a new one. Add the amounts from your unemployment and PFD, and enter the total on line 3. If you had neither of these forms of income, enter 0 (zero) on line 3. Add lines 1, 2 and 3 together. Enter the total on line 4. This is your Adjusted Gross Income. Enter your personal and standard deductions on line 5. If you are not claimed as a dependent, follow the instructions and write the dollar amount associated with your filing status (single or married filing jointly), as described on that line of the form. For 2014, the standard deduction for a single person was $10,150 and the deduction for a married couple filing jointly was $20,300. If neither you nor your spouse (if applicable) can be claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return, enter the appropriate amount stated in the shaded area on line 5. The amounts are listed on the form. If you or your spouse can be claimed on someone else's taxes, complete the worksheet on the back of the form (if you received a pre-printed form) or on page 2 of the form (if you downloaded the form). This will tell you what to enter on line 5. If you or your spouse cannot be claimed by someone else, you do not have to fill out this form. Subtract line 5 from line 4 and enter that amount on line 6. If line 5 is larger than line 4, enter 0 (zero) on line 6. This is your taxable income. If the amount is more than $100,000, you can't use the 1040EZ and must file either form 1040 or 1040A. Look at your forms W-2, 1099-INT, 1099-G and 1099-OID. Find the box on each of these forms that is labeled "federal income tax withheld" from box 2. Add up all these amounts and enter the result in line 7. If you do not have any of these forms, enter 0 (zero). Figure out if you are eligible for the Earned Income Credit. The EIC benefits working people who have low to moderate incomes by lowering their tax burden. In order to qualify or the EIC, you need to make below a specified amount per year. In 2014, a single person with no children had to make below $14,590 to qualify. If you are married and/or have children, the amount you earn can be higher. You will need the instructions to form 1040EZ to calculate this credit because the amounts change each year. You can find these instructions at http://www.irs.gov/Forms-&-Pubs. These instructions are very clear and easy to follow. Although the steps are similar and the outcome is the same, the worksheet is different than the EIC worksheet for forms 1040 and 1040A. After completing the worksheet, enter the amount of the credit on line 8a. If you want the IRS to calculate this credit for you, enter “EIC” in the shaded space on line 8a and leave the unshaded space blank. If you are or were in the military and received nontaxable combat pay for the tax year, this is still earned income for Earned Income Credit purposes and will affect your eligibility and calculations. Enter the amount of nontaxable combat pay (from box 12 of your W-2) in line 8b. Add lines 7 and 8a to get "total payments and credits" and enter the result in line 9. If you requested an extension using Form 4868, you should add the amount you paid to the IRS with the extension (not counting any convenience or service fees you were charged based on your payment method) to the amounts on lines 7 and 8a and enter the total in line 9. If you did not request an extension, simply add lines 7 and 8a and enter the total in line 9. Locate the tax table close to the end of the instructions for form 1040EZ. Locate your income range, then follow that line of numbers to the right until you reach the number directly below your filing status. That number is your tax liability. Enter it on line 10. If you want the IRS to compute your tax for you, simply leave this line blank. For the IRS to calculate your tax, you must file by April 15 without any extensions; you can't have a refund directly deposited into a bank account; and you can't apply any part of your refund to the following year's liability. Also, if you owe taxes, the IRS will send you a bill which must be paid either by April 15 or 30 days after the issue date of the bill, whichever is later. Assess whether if you had minimum essential health care during the tax year. This is a change for 2014 taxes, requiring that all Americans have health coverage. If you did not have health coverage, you either need to apply for an exemption or make an individual shared responsibility payment. Check the box in the shaded portion of line 11 and either enter 0 in the unshaded portion or leave it blank if you and your spouse had minimum essential health care coverage for the entire year. Most health care coverage that people have is minimum essential coverage. Minimum essential coverage includes: health coverage provided by your employer; health insurance coverage you buy through a Health Insurance Marketplace; many types of government-sponsored health coverage, including Medicare, most Medicaid coverage and most health care coverage provided to veterans and active duty service members; and certain types of health care coverage you buy directly from an insurance company. If you and your spouse can both be claimed as a dependent on someone else's tax return, skip line 11. If you or your spouse, if applicable, enrolled for health care coverage through a Health Insurance Marketplace and wish to claim the premium tax credit, you may not file Form 1040EZ and must file either the Form 1040 or 1040A instead. If you or your spouse did not have minimum essential health care coverage but believe you have an exemption, you will need to complete Form 8965. You can find Form 8965 and its instructions for the current year and prior years at http://www.irs.gov/Forms-&-Pubs. The long list of exemptions approved by Congress for that particular tax year can be found around page 2 of the instructions. If you or your spouse did not have minimum essential health care coverage and do not qualify for an exemption, complete the Shared Responsibility Payment Worksheet found beginning on approximately page 5 of the instructions for Form 8965. Enter your shared responsibility payment (the last number on the worksheet) on line 11 of Form 1040EZ. Add lines 10 and 11 together and enter the total on line 12. This is your total tax liability; in other words, the total amount of tax you need to pay. Determine if you are due a refund. If line 12 is larger than line 9, leave this section blank because you are not due a refund. If line 9 is larger than line 12, subtract line 12 from line 9 and enter that amount in line 13a. If this amount is less than $1, you must send a letter requesting your refund. If you want this refund split between multiple bank accounts or used to purchase US Savings Bonds, check the box in the shaded portion of line 13a and complete Form 8888. Fill out direct deposit information if you want your refund directly deposited into a bank account. Complete lines 13b, c and d. Enter your bank's routing number in the boxes for 13b. The routing number is the 9-digit number on the bottom left of your pre-printed deposit slip. Check in box 13c whether the account is a checking account or a savings account. Enter your account number in 13d. The account number will be the number to the right of your routing number on your deposit slip. The last digit of your account number should be written in the box farthest to the right in 13d. Any boxes remaining after entering all numbers can be left blank. Calculate the amount you owe. If you calculated that you are not due a refund, then you will likely owe taxes. If line 9 is larger than line 12, leave this section blank. You do not owe any additional taxes. If line 12 is larger than line 9, subtract line 9 from line 12 and enter it on line 14. This is the amount of additional taxes you owe. If you owe less than $1, you do not have to pay. You can pay this amount by attaching a personal check made payable to the U.S. Treasury (ensure your name, address, and Social Security number are on the check) or by any method included at http://www.irs.gov/Payments , including credit or debit card, automatic deduction from your bank account or other methods. Complete the Third Party Designee section. If you want the IRS to contact someone other than you for any questions or comments about your return, check the box beside “Yes” in this section. Then write that person's name and phone number (with area code) in the appropriate areas in this section. Select a 5-digit number that this person can use to identify themselves to any IRS representative who contacts them and enter it in the area for the Personal identification number (PIN). Be sure to let your third party designee know this number. If you do not want the IRS to discuss your return with someone other than you or your spouse, check the box beside “No” in this section. Sign your form. You and your spouse, if applicable, should both sign your names as they appear at the top and as they match the records for both the Social Security Administration and the IRS tax database. You should each date it the same date as you signed it. Each of you should list your occupations. By signing the form, you are swearing that the information on the form is true and correct to the best of your knowledge. You face criminal penalties for knowingly filing inaccurate information. A daytime telephone number (with area code) should be listed in the space provided. If you have been provided an identity protection PIN, enter it in the space provided. If you do not have an identity protection PIN, leave that space blank. Leave the paid preparer use only section blank. This section should only be used by professional tax preparers. Prepare supplementary materials to include with your return. Detach Copy B of all Forms W-2. If you prepared any additional forms, such as Form 8965 or 8888, gather them. If you owe and plan to pay by check, write your check. Make a copy of all of these documents and the Form 1040EZ for your files. You will need to keep a copy of your taxes for your records. File your tax return. Mail the originals of all documents to the IRS at the appropriate address listed on the last page of the instructions. You can file your return electronically through a variety of tax preparer websites.

Determine if you are eligible to use form 1040EZ. Gather your W-2 forms. Obtain the 1040EZ form for the current tax year at http://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/f1040ez.pdf. Fill in the primary taxpayer’s full name and Social Security number on the top line. Fill in your spouse’s full, legal name and Social Security number, as matched to the records of both the Social Security Administration and IRS taxpayer records, on the second line. Put your home street address on the third and fourth lines. Check the "presidential election campaign" box (in the shaded area) if you like. Enter your gross wages, salaries and tips. Enter your taxable interest on line 2, if you have any. Enter the amount you received in unemployment benefits on line 3 if you received any. Add lines 1, 2 and 3 together. Enter your personal and standard deductions on line 5. Subtract line 5 from line 4 and enter that amount on line 6. Look at your forms W-2, 1099-INT, 1099-G and 1099-OID. Figure out if you are eligible for the Earned Income Credit. Add lines 7 and 8a to get "total payments and credits" and enter the result in line 9. Locate the tax table close to the end of the instructions for form 1040EZ. Assess whether if you had minimum essential health care during the tax year. Add lines 10 and 11 together and enter the total on line 12. Determine if you are due a refund. Fill out direct deposit information if you want your refund directly deposited into a bank account. Calculate the amount you owe. Complete the Third Party Designee section. Sign your form. Leave the paid preparer use only section blank. Prepare supplementary materials to include with your return. Make a copy of all of these documents and the Form 1040EZ for your files. File your tax return.

https://www.wikihow.pet/Diagnose-Respiratory-Problems-in-Guinea-Pigs

How to Diagnose Respiratory Problems in Guinea Pigs

To diagnose respiratory problems in your guinea pig, listen for wheezing or clicking noises, which are signs that it's having trouble breathing. Additionally, examine your guinea pig's eyes and nose for yellow or green discharge, as that can indicate an infection. You should also watch your pet for changes in its appetite or energy level, since eating less or being less active may indicate that your guinea pig is unwell. If you think your guinea pig is having any trouble, take it to the vet's, because even mild respiratory problems can quickly become severe.

Listen to your guinea pig breathe. If your guinea pig has a respiratory infection, he may have trouble breathing. Sounds of troubled breathing include wheezing and clicking noises. Normal breathing in a guinea pig should be easy and quiet. If your guinea pig has allergies, he may breathe more loudly, but probably won't have trouble breathing. Examine your guinea pig’s eyes. Respiratory problems, whether an allergy or infection, can affect your guinea pig's eyes. For example, you may notice a discharge coming from his eyes. This discharge may be yellow or green if he has an infection. Your guinea pig's eyes may look crusty from the discharge. His eyes may also look red. Conjunctivitis, which is inflammation of the inner eyelid, can make eyes look red. It is usually seen with respiratory infections. Look at your guinea pig’s nose. Look for discharge coming from your guinea pig's nose. Since respiratory infections can cause sneezing, you may see the discharge when your guinea pig sneezes. The discharge may be yellow or green if your guinea pig has an infection. Allergies can produce a sore nose if the nose becomes itchy. A sore nose will look red from constant rubbing or scratching. Observe your guinea pig’s overall appearance. A respiratory infection can make your guinea pig feel pretty sick. His physical appearance will worsen. His fur will start to look ruffled from a lack of grooming. He may also look a little smaller from weight loss. Monitor your guinea pig’s appetite. If your guinea pig is feeling sick, he probably won't feel like eating much. Pay close attention to how much food you put in his cage and how much he eats. You may notice your guinea pig eating less, or not eating anything at all. Determine if your guinea pig is less active than usual. Guinea pigs are usually very active and playful. Respiratory problems can make your guinea pig feel tired. He may move around more slowly in his cage. If your guinea pig has a cage mate, he might be less playful and social with him. Your guinea pig might want to just be alone and not play very much. Identify stressful events for your guinea pig. Events that are stressful to your guinea pig could weaken his immune system and increase his chances of getting a respiratory problem. These events could cause changes in behavior. Examples of stressors for your guinea pig are pregnancy and a change in routine (e.g., cleaning, feeding). Other potential stressors are: Cage crowding A new cage mate Bedding (pine, cedar) that can irritate the respiratory tract Too much attention from people Take your guinea pig to your vet immediately. Respiratory problems in guinea pigs can go from mild to severe in a matter of days. When you first notice signs of respiratory problems in your guinea pig, take him to your vet for a diagnosis. The sooner your vet can determine what's going on, the sooner your guinea pig can get the treatment he needs. If possible, take your guinea pig to a small animal exotic veterinarian. They will have experience working with small animals like guinea pigs. Give your vet a detailed history of your guinea pig. Providing detailed information about your guinea pig (e.g., overall health, previous diseases or injuries, when the respiratory symptoms started) will help your vet diagnose and treat your guinea pig. Your vet might ask you specific questions about your guinea pig's history, such as if he has a new cage mate and if he's been bred recently. Since a lack of vitamin C can cause respiratory problems in guinea pigs, your vet may also ask about your guinea pig's diet. Allow your vet to examine your guinea pig. Your vet will do a thorough physical exam of your guinea pig. They will look for the same things you may have observed at home, such as nasal discharge and labored breathing. Your vet may also touch your guinea pig's lymph nodes, which may have gotten bigger if your guinea pig has an infection. Lymph nodes are part of your guinea pig's immune system and are located throughout his body. Also, your vet will look in your guinea pig's mouth for signs of dental disease, which can sometimes cause respiratory problems. Signs of dental disease in guinea pigs are misaligned teeth and swellings. The swelling are pockets of infection. Your vet will also listen to your guinea pig's lungs. Have your vet take x-rays. Your vet can take several different types of x-rays, depending on what they think is causing your guinea pig's respiratory problems. For example, if your guinea pig has dental disease, your vet will want to take skull x-rays to get a better look at the teeth and jawbones. If your vet suspects pneumonia, then chest x-rays will allow them to view your guinea pig's lungs. X-rays can help your vet to determine the extent of your guinea pig's respiratory problem, as well as his likelihood of recovery after treatment. Let your vet identify the type of bacteria present. Respiratory infections in guinea pigs are usually caused by bacteria — Bordatella bronchiseptica or Streptococcus pneumoniae. To test for bacteria, your vet will take small samples from your guinea pig's body. For example, your vet may use a Q-tip to take a swab from the inside of your guinea pig's nose. A small sample of your guinea pig's conjunctiva may also help identify bacteria. Nasal swabs may not be ideal since bacteria from the environment can easily enter the nose. A tracheal wash, during which your vet would take a fluid sample from your guinea pig's trachea, would allow your vet to identify the bacteria more accurately. Your guinea pig may need to be sedated so your vet can take the samples. Your vet will look at the samples under the microscope to identify the specific type of bacteria and see the cells ('neutrophils') that are present with bacterial infections.

Listen to your guinea pig breathe. Examine your guinea pig’s eyes. Look at your guinea pig’s nose. Observe your guinea pig’s overall appearance. Monitor your guinea pig’s appetite. Determine if your guinea pig is less active than usual. Identify stressful events for your guinea pig. Take your guinea pig to your vet immediately. Give your vet a detailed history of your guinea pig. Allow your vet to examine your guinea pig. Have your vet take x-rays. Let your vet identify the type of bacteria present.

https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-with-Good-Friends-Getting-Mad-at-You

How to Deal with Good Friends Getting Mad at You

To deal with good friends getting mad at you, first try your best to understand their point-of-view. If you were wrong, make a sincere apology and ask if there's anything you can do to make amends. Make sure you speak in a soft and sincere tone, and maintain eye contact the whole time. Sometimes, your friend may just need space and time to get over the situation before they can go back to normal. Reassure your friend that they are important to you and that you still care for them. You might also do something nice for them, like make a card or buy friendship bracelets. When they are ready, start spending quality time together again. Prioritize hanging out and chatting with them, so they can see that you meant it when you said their friendship was important to you. Lastly, remember that conflict can help you grow as a person and make your relationships closer!

Ask your friends to meet up. Choose a place where you can talk uninterrupted. To keep tempers and voices down, it may be a good idea to meet in a public place such as a coffee shop or restaurant. Let them know the reason you're asking them to meet. For instance, you might say, “We really need to talk about what happened the other day. Can we get together tomorrow after class?” Give them a chance to share their feelings. It's unfair to try to jump straight into the resolution phase if your friends haven't said their piece. Grant them the opportunity to vent their frustrations and explain what you did to make them so mad. Use this as a learning experience to help you sidestep similar issues in the future. Listen and stay calm. It can be tough to listen to someone spell out your wrongdoing, even when it's true. However, the key is to not get defensive or angry here. Interrupting, excusing, or defending will only make matters worse. It's important to remember that when someone says you've hurt them, you don't get to say that you didn't. So, hear them out. Try to step into their shoes. Aim for empathy by trying to separate the current situation from how you view yourself as a person. Take a moment to step out of your own point-of-view and into your friend's. Chances are, what they are saying may have some truth to it. As you listen to your friends say all that they are upset about, try to step into their shoes. How would you feel if the same thing had been done to you? Validate how they feel. Once they've stated their grievances, try to validate their feelings. This helps mend fences by showing that they are not crazy for feeling the way they do. Let them know that their reaction makes sense to you and that they are right to be angry. You might say something like, “You know, I can see why you're angry”, or “I can see that I really hurt your feelings.” Apologize and admit it if you were wrong. Only after validating your friend's experience and feelings should you move into making amends. Tell them you're sorry and ask for their forgiveness. Say, “I'm really sorry I embarrassed you. Can you forgive me?” The apology is most likely to be successful if you speak in a soft and sincere tone of voice, and make eye contact the whole time. Only apologize if you feel like you were actually wrong. Otherwise, your apology will be insincere. Give them some space. In some cases, your friends may need a little time before they can completely mend fences with you. Don't jump the gun and expect that things will be back to normal simply because you apologized. Let them have some time to get over the situation so that you can start fresh. If the situation happens to be a misunderstanding in which you didn't do anything wrong, time apart may help both sides to see the situation more clearly. That way, you can move past it more easily. Ask what you can do to make it better. Go to your friends and see how you can resolve the situation so that your relationships don't suffer. Be open-minded about what they may suggest. Also, be willing to put in some effort and meet their demands. For example, if you told a secret, your friend may request that you never do that again. They may also ask that you earn their trust again by showing that you are loyal. Address the problems that caused the rift. Simply asking what you can do to make things better is only half of the solution. You also have to follow through. If you want the friendship, commit to making changes within yourself to prevent similar problems from occurring in the future. For instance, if your friends were angry because you stood them up to hang out with your girlfriend, let them know that it won't happen again. It may help to set aside special times or days to hang out with friends or hang out with your partner. Let them know how important they are to you. If you have betrayed, hurt, or humiliated a friend, they may need reassuring that you still care for them. Remind your friend that you still love them and that they are important to you. Don't grovel or overdo it, though—this may come off as insincere. You might say, “We all have been friends since third grade. I love you guys and I can't imagine my life without you.” You might also do something nice for them, like make a card or buy friendship bracelets. Spend quality time together. The best way to strengthen the bonds of friendship is by spending quality time together. Prioritize hanging out and chatting with your buddies over the next few days and weeks. This shows them that you are making an effort. Spending quality time also backs up your claim that the friendship is important. Realize that conflict makes you stronger. Many people avoid conflict with those they care about because it is painful. However, fights between friends help you recognize areas where you need to grow. Plus, making up often helps you remember why you care about one another in the first place. Conflict may be useful for growth, but friends shouldn't always be fighting. Be wary of friends who are always starting fights or always blaming you for something. Arguments can also be a way to manipulate friends. Remember to offer balance during conflicts. Listen to the other person's concerns and validate them. This will encourage more constructive dialogue. Also be aware of when it is time to move forward and leave a problem in the past.

Ask your friends to meet up. Give them a chance to share their feelings. Listen and stay calm. Try to step into their shoes. Validate how they feel. Apologize and admit it if you were wrong. Give them some space. Ask what you can do to make it better. Address the problems that caused the rift. Let them know how important they are to you. Spend quality time together. Realize that conflict makes you stronger.

https://www.wikihow.com/Have-Sex-During-Your-Period

How to Have Sex During Your Period

To have sex during your period, place some towels under you to keep your sheets and mattress clean. If you want to lessen the flow of blood while you're having sex, lie on your back and stick to the missionary position. If anything starts to hurt, it may be a sign that your cervix is lower and more sensitive during your period, so make sure to tell your partner if the penetration is too deep. Alternatively, have sex in the shower so the mess is instantly cleaned up for you. Since you're at a higher risk of STDs and pelvic infections during your period, make sure to use a barrier form of contraception, like a condom.

Get some towels. You don't want your menstrual fluid (combined with everything else) to soak into your sheets and mattress, so while you're having sex, place some towels beneath you and some tissues to your side. The towels will be on constant duty; the tissues will be used to wipe yourself off just before sitting up (when all is said and done). If odor is a problem, don't let it ruin the moment -- throw on some blankets. If you keep them above your midsections, they'll help block the wafting scents. Stick to the missionary position. Lie on your back to lessen the flow of blood while you're having intercourse. Also, be careful about deep penetration because your cervix may be lower and more sensitive during your period. If anything starts to hurt, just tell your partner and proceed with care. Have sex in the shower. Not only is this less messy from the get-go, it's a change of pace, too. When you're under the flow of the water, that other flow becomes a lot less noticeable.  If you can fit two in comfortably, give it a shot (if you haven't already!). Don't get too handsy. Unless your partner's into uterine lining, they probably shouldn't start feeling around down there. However, if you're the type that needs loads of foreplay, you're in luck! You already have a natural lubricant, so your partner's fingers (and whatever else) can have the night off. That doesn't mean you should skip the foreplay entirely. No, no, no, no -- that's a travesty! Just use it as an excuse to experiment with new tricks and moves. Stick to your lighter days. This just makes sense. If you know that days 3-5 are lighter than days 1 and 2, just keep your panties on for those 48 hours. Let the anticipation build and avoid any awkward trips to the laundromat. If it doesn't bother your partner and they're totally down for day 1 sex, evaluate your concerns. Maybe it's something you could get over -- after all, it's no less sanitary than what you've been doing. It's just a bit redder! Take a shower after. There will probably be at least a little something on your skin that needs to be washed off. If you didn't do the deed in the shower, hop in after for at least a quick rinse. You'll feel better, too. If you're using toys during this time, get those things sanitary immediately. Putting it off will only result in a, how do you say, less-than-glamorous experience. All in all, get everything hygienic as quickly as possible. Use contraception. When you're on your period, you're at a higher risk of STDs and pelvic infections. What's more, you're less likely to get pregnant, sure, but it's not impossible. So if you thought this was your ticket to ride, sorry -- you still gotta stay safe. Here are some of your options: Diaphragms do double-duty as birth control devices and as menstrual cups to inhibit flow. Sometimes, diaphragms can be felt during sex, and removal can be messy. However, they are generally easy to use because your gynecologist will provide a diaphragm fit exactly to your cervical measurements. Contraceptive sponges are foam devices soaked in spermicide that are inserted into your vagina during sex. They can prevent pregnancy and have the side benefit of absorbing flow, although they don't prevent STDs. Male condoms will help prevent pregnancy, block STDs, and keep blood from getting on your partner's penis. Female condoms , which will also keep your partner from coming into contact with blood while enabling more heat and sensation, are also a good form of birth control, although they will provide slightly less protection than male condoms. You can improve the effectiveness of a female condom by putting some spermicide on the closed end before you insert it into your vagina. Wear a cup that will stop the menstrual flow from leaving your vagina. Wear a menstrual cup for sexual play that doesn't involve intercourse. Wear a softcup for penetrative intercourse. Avoid wearing regular menstrual cups during penetration. They are not designed to be used that way and will probably leak. However, if you just want to fool around, menstrual cups prevent leaking and allow for mess-free play including oral sex. Skip cups made of rubber because the rubbery smell and the taste of rubber in your vaginal fluid may be unpleasant for your partner. Use a silicone cup instead. Instead softcups are specifically designed to be used during intercourse. They are shaped like a diaphragm, are very flexible, and available at most drugstores. Keep in mind that while you can have intercourse with a soft cup, it doesn't work as a contraceptive. Know that sperm can stay alive for up to 72 hours. That's three days those little guys have to swim around doing whatever they dang well please. So if you do take the risk of having unprotected sex and your partner ejaculating into you, that's what'll be going on inside you. If your period is over tomorrow, though the risk of getting pregnant is minimal, it's still there. Talk it over beforehand. Not everybody enjoys period sex, so it's best not to initiate sex during your period and deliver an awkward surprise to your partner and a potentially frustrating response to you. Instead, talk it over and find out what your partner thinks about the situation before you get started. He or she probably has an opinion! Some religions and cultures consider the act of having intercourse during your period to be wrong. While no scientific principles support this restriction, you'll have to respect your partner's feelings on the matter. Reap the benefits. Sex on your period actually makes a lot of sense, if you look at it from the right angle. A lot of women can actually be more sexually aroused during this time, so the sex can be even better. But what's more, it's good for your period. Having sex on your period actually makes it shorter. The muscle contractions of the orgasm actually drive out everything faster (as opposed to making it magically disappear). Your period may be a bit heavier, but it'll shrink in duration. Your cramps will be lessened. An orgasm is our bodies' version of a natural painkiller. It's a rush that wipes away all those aches and floods our feel-good receptors in our brains. If you're out of Midol, take to the sheets! Be confident. Your period and your vagina are in no way dirty or gross. Having sex while menstruating isn't weird, uncommon, unhygienic or unsafe. It's all in your head, so quit psyching yourself out! If both of you enjoy it (and you inevitably will), why the fuss? You may feel awkward when you first start, but your mind will be taken off the matter in minutes. Maybe even seconds! Be inventive. Sex is generally thought of as penetration, but there are many other forms of sexual play that can bring pleasure to both partners, even if you or your partner do not wish to have vaginal intercourse during your period. Take this opportunity to discuss and brainstorm new ideas.

Get some towels. Stick to the missionary position. Have sex in the shower. Don't get too handsy. Stick to your lighter days. Take a shower after. Use contraception. Wear a cup that will stop the menstrual flow from leaving your vagina. Know that sperm can stay alive for up to 72 hours. Reap the benefits. Be confident. Be inventive.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Cat-Collar

How to Make a Cat Collar

To make a bow-tie cat collar, start by cutting out a 7 by 3-inch piece of fabric. Then, holding the fabric lengthwise, fold the top and bottom edges toward the center and hot glue them down. Next, fold the left and right sides in toward the center and glue them down as well so you're left with a long rectangle. Once you've done that, pinch the center of the fabric and glue it in place to form the bow. Finally, glue the bow to a piece of elastic that will fit around your cat's neck.

Cut a 5.5 in (14 cm) length of cord and seal the ends. Either paracord or nylon webbing are most often used for pet collars, and these can be found at most craft stores. Choose a cord that is ⁄ 4 to ⁄ 2 inch (0.64 to 1.27 cm) wide, just depending on what kind of look you prefer. On the edges where you made your cuts, use the fabric sealant to keep the edges from fraying over time. This length of cord will make the adjustable section of the collar. There will be another longer section that comprises the majority of the collar, too. You can buy cat-collar kits online, which will include all the basic supplies you'll need, or you can buy the materials needed from your local craft store. Match fabric to the size of the cord and sew them together. Use a ruler and a marker to measure out a swatch of fabric that matches the length and width of the cord. Cut out the fabric, and then use a sewing machine to fasten the fabric and cord together. Pin the fabric pattern-side up along the length of the cord. Sew along the top and bottom of the cord so that the fabric is completely connected. Use straight pins to keep the fabric in the right position while you sew it. Keep your stitches as close to the edge of the cord as you can. This way, there won't be any flapping sections of fabric. Use a walking foot if your sewing machine has one. This'll just help you make neater looking stitches. Connect a parachute buckle to one side of the cord. A parachute buckle resembles a seatbelt in that there is one side that clips into the other. You can find parachute buckles at most craft stores. Flip the strap over so it is fabric-side down. Separate the parachute buckle so it's in 2 pieces (the pronged side is the “male” side and the receiving side is the “female side"). Take the female side, turn it so that the ridges are facing down, and thread the left side of the cord up through the bottom rung of the parachute buckle. Leave the male side of the buckle off at this time. It'll get connected to the collar later. Thread a strap adjuster to the other side of the cord. Take the right end of the cord and put it through the bottom rung of the strap adjuster. It's okay if the adjuster moves around easily on the cord—it'll be held in place later once the collar is finished. Overlap the ends by 1 in (2.5 cm) and sew them together. For this step, sew the interior edge so that a small exterior section of fabric remains loose. Use a straight pin to keep the ends together and in line. Turn the connected section inside out so you can make the stitches on the inside (rather than across the patterned/fabric side). Stitch back and forth 2 to 3 times to create a secure seal on the fabric. For a neater edge, you could also fold the edge of the cord in about ⁄ 4 in (0.64 cm) and sew that section down, but either way will work just fine. Sew a D-ring between the cord and the loose flap of material. You can buy a D-ring from most craft stores—it is a small silver “D” shaped object. Take the D-ring and slide it in place between the cord you just sewed and the loose section. Use your sewing machine to fasten the end of the loose cord to the rest of the fabric so that the D-ring is enclosed. If you have a cat that doesn't go outdoors and doesn't need an identification tag, then you can skip the entire D-ring step. It's mainly for attaching those I.D. cards to the collar or for using a leash, if you happen to walk your cat. Measure your cat’s neck and cut out more cord and fabric. Take a flexible tape measure and loosely wrap it around your cat's neck. Adjust the fit so that you can still stick 2 fingers underneath the tape measure easily. Add 3 inches (7.6 cm) to that measurement, and cut off that amount from the cord. Cut out the same width and length of fabric, too. This collar is adjustable, so don't worry if the length seems too long. You can always make it shorter, but you can't make it longer! Attach the fabric and cord, and seal the ends with fabric sealer. Like you did with the shorter piece of cord, pin the fabric in place, fabric-side up, and then sew it onto the cord on both sides. Keep the stitches as close to the edge as possible. Then, use the fabric sealer on both ends of the cord to take care of any potential fraying issues. The fabric sealer isn't required, but it's inexpensive to buy and it's a good precaution that can keep your cat's collar in better condition for a longer period of time. Connect the remaining strap adjuster to the left side of the long cord. Flip the cord so that the fabric is facing down. Keep the strap adjuster ridge-side up this time. Thread the cord up through the bottom section and then back through the top hole of the strap adjuster. If you notice the strap adjuster is cracked or misshapen at all, use a new one. You don't want to risk it accidentally breaking and scratching your cat. Pull the cord through the adjuster and sew the edge down. Bring the cord through about 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). Use your sewing machine to secure down the edge of the cord so that adjuster is fully attached. Try really hard to keep the edges of the cord straight when you sew to prevent any weird ripples in the fabric. Put the male side of the buckle through the right side of the cord. Check to make sure your cord is fabric-side down, but keep the buckle right-side up. Thread the right side end of the cord up through the first hole. If you get confused about which side of the buckle should be up, just fasten the male and female side together to make sure they can connect. If they can, that's the right way. If not, flip the male side over. Feed the end of the cord through the strap adjuster. Take the end you just passed through the buckle and thread it through the bottom of the adjuster and then back through the top of the adjuster (skipping over the middle section entirely). Pull it so you have 2 to 3 in (5.1 to 7.6 cm) to work with. If your adjuster only has 2 rows, just take the cord back through the top row. The effect will be the same. Secure the open edge to the adjuster on the short piece of cord. Thread the open end up through the first hole on the adjuster, and then take it back down through the middle section. Pull the end through 1 in (2.5 cm) and sew it into place. Remember to stitch back and forth over the edge several times to make it secure. Clip the collar on your cat and adjust the tightness as needed! Use the D-ring to hang the identification tags if you have any. Make sure you can fit 2 fingers under the collar to ensure your cat is comfortable and safe. To adjust the collar and make it smaller, pull the fabric through the adjuster toward the male end of the clip. To make it bigger, pull the fabric through the adjuster heading away from the male end of the clip. These collars make great gifts! You can match the fabric to the cat's personality, and it's really easy to make them larger for your canine friends, too. Choose a fabric that matches your cat’s personality. This is one of the most fun parts of the crafting process. Think about your feline friend—what kind of personality do they have? Are they more active or lazy? Do they have a favorite activity or toy? Choose a fabric that reminds you of them. Opt for cotton fabric, as it'll be softer and gentler on your cat that a synthetic fiber would be. For example, if you have a cat that loves to watch the outdoor wildlife, you could pick a fabric patterned with birds. Because this craft doesn't require much fabric, you could also use scraps from other projects you've completed. Cut out a 7 by 3 in (17.8 by 7.6 cm) piece of fabric. This is what you will use to make the bow, so you don't need to worry about measuring your cat's neck yet. Use a ruler and a sharp pair of scissors to cut out the swath of fabric. To help guide your cuts, you could use a marker to draw the measurements on the backside of the fabric. Hold the fabric lengthwise, and fold the top and bottom inward. Fold the top down 1 in (2.5 cm), and fold the bottom half up 1 in (2.5 cm). If you need to, use a dot of hot glue to secure the edges so they don't come undone. Try your best to keep the edges straight as you make the folds. This will create a neater and more shapely bow. Fold the sides in to create a 3 in (7.6 cm) long rectangle. Take the edges of the fabric and fold them inwards. Each side will go in 2 in (5.1 cm) to create the 3 in (7.6 cm) long rectangle. To create a longer bow, fold each side in just 1 in (2.5 cm). Glue the sides of the fabric down with a hot glue gun. Use your hot glue gun to secure each side of the fabric down. Apply the glue on the corners of each fold so that no sharp corners stick out and scratch your cat. Be careful to not get the hot glue on your hands, and always follow the machine's instructions when loading the gun. Form the bow by pinching the middle of the fabric. Hold the 3 in (7.6 cm) long piece of fabric in your hands. Pinch the middle down to create a bow. Use the hot glue gun to secure the pinched material on the backside of the bow (the side with the seams). You could also cut a small piece of fabric to tie around the middle of the bow. Glue it in place and cut away any excess fabric. Measure out a piece of unstretched elastic to fit around your cat’s neck. To do this, loosely wrap a piece of elastic around your cat's neck, and position it so that you can fit 2 fingers underneath the band. Cut off the elastic at that point. You could also cover the elastic in a matching or complementary fabric. Making sure you can fit 2 fingers under the band comfortably is essential in guaranteeing that the collar won't be too tight for your cat. Glue the bow to the middle of the piece of elastic. Lay out the piece of elastic on a table, and use your hot glue gun to secure the bow to the middle of the elastic. Make sure to glue the backside of the bow rather than the front. Let the glue dry before you move on, which should only take about 2 minutes. You could always create several small bows and line the elastic with them, too, for a cute alternative. Secure velcro to either end of the elastic to form the “clasp. ” Use velcro that has a sticky back. Attach one side of the velcro to one end of the collar, and attach the other side of the velcro to the other end of the collar. When you go to fasten the collar together, it should form one continuous loop. If your velcro doesn't have a sticky back, you could also sew it in place. Fasten the collar around your feline friend, and enjoy! Once the velcro is in place and the glue on the bow has dried, you can try out this collar on your cat. Snap a few photos to share with your family and friends! Find a child’s button-up shirt at the thrift store or get one from a friend. If you don't have any at home, you can buy a child-sized button-up shirt from the thrift store for just a few dollars. Search for fun patterns and buttons for a unique cat collar. These collars are really easy to make, so you could even prepare multiple collars at once to use at different special occasions. Cut away the collar and top button from the rest of the shirt. Use a pair of sharp scissors to trim away the collar from the shirt. Avoid cutting into the collar, and make your cuts as straight as possible. You can discard the rest of the shirt, or save the scraps of fabric for another project. Check the length of the collar on your cat and trim it to size. Fasten the collar around your cat's neck and make sure it is loose enough that you can fit 2 fingers underneath it. If you can fit more than 2 fingers under it, cut away 1 to 2 in (2.5 to 5.1 cm) of fabric to make it the right size. If you do need to make the collar smaller, cut fabric from the middle of it (so directly across from the buttons when the collar is fastened). Stitch together the bottom and cut edges of the collar. Depending on the kind of shirt you used, there may be a gap around the edge of the collar. If so, stitch it shut using a sewing needle and thread. And if you had to cut the collar to make it smaller, sew the opening shut so the collar is once again one continuous piece of fabric. You can also use a sewing machine , but because the collar is so small, it might be quicker to just do it by hand. Slide the collar over your cat’s head and center the button under its chin. You can either slide the collar overtop of the cat's head, or unbutton the collar and then fasten it around its neck. Position the button under your cat's chin, and enjoy!

Cut a 5.5 in (14 cm) length of cord and seal the ends. Match fabric to the size of the cord and sew them together. Connect a parachute buckle to one side of the cord. Thread a strap adjuster to the other side of the cord. Overlap the ends by 1 in (2.5 cm) and sew them together. Sew a D-ring between the cord and the loose flap of material. Measure your cat’s neck and cut out more cord and fabric. Attach the fabric and cord, and seal the ends with fabric sealer. Connect the remaining strap adjuster to the left side of the long cord. Pull the cord through the adjuster and sew the edge down. Put the male side of the buckle through the right side of the cord. Feed the end of the cord through the strap adjuster. Secure the open edge to the adjuster on the short piece of cord. Clip the collar on your cat and adjust the tightness as needed! Choose a fabric that matches your cat’s personality. Cut out a 7 by 3 in (17.8 by 7.6 cm) piece of fabric. Hold the fabric lengthwise, and fold the top and bottom inward. Fold the sides in to create a 3 in (7.6 cm) long rectangle. Glue the sides of the fabric down with a hot glue gun. Form the bow by pinching the middle of the fabric. Measure out a piece of unstretched elastic to fit around your cat’s neck. Glue the bow to the middle of the piece of elastic. Secure velcro to either end of the elastic to form the “clasp. Fasten the collar around your feline friend, and enjoy! Find a child’s button-up shirt at the thrift store or get one from a friend. Cut away the collar and top button from the rest of the shirt. Check the length of the collar on your cat and trim it to size. Stitch together the bottom and cut edges of the collar. Slide the collar over your cat’s head and center the button under its chin.

https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Cheese-Cloth

How to Clean Cheese Cloth

Whether you wash cheesecloth by hand or in a washing machine, it's important that you do it properly so it doesn't break down. To wash it by hand, try to remove as many bits of food as you can from the cloth and soak it in a solution of 1 gallon of water and ½ cup of baking soda for 10-30 minutes. If there are stains, add 1⁄4 cup of white vinegar to the solution while it soaks. When it's finished soaking, boil the cloth in a pot of water to sterilize it. If you want to wash the cloth in a washing machine, prepare it by rinsing the cheesecloth under hot water to remove debris. Then, place it in your washing machine, add detergent made for delicate fabrics, and wash it on a gentle cycle. Once it's clean, you can dry it in your dryer or hang it up to air dry.

Rinse your cheesecloth in hot water immediately after use. Try to remove as many bits of food as you can. The faster you get to rinsing the cheesecloth, the easier it will be to get food and stains out of it. If you don't have time to rinse it thoroughly right away, put it in a bowl of hot water to soak until you can wash it. Soak the cheesecloth in a baking soda solution to remove tough debris. If your cheesecloth has bits of food or stains that are difficult to get out with just hot water, add baking soda to a hot water soak. Use ½ cup (90 g) baking soda per 1 gallon (3.75 L) of water. Leave the cheesecloth in the solution for 10-30 minutes, depending on how severe the stains are. Rinse the cheesecloth thoroughly after you soak it. Add white vinegar or lemon juice to the soak water to fade stains and debris. If you have extra stubborn debris or stains on the cheesecloth, add a stain-fighting ingredient to your baking soda soak solution. Simply add ⁄ 4 cup (59 ml) of white vinegar or lemon juice per 1 gallon (3.75 L) of hot water along with the baking soda before you soak the cheesecloth. You can also spot-treat a stain by dipping a toothbrush into the vinegar or lemon juice and rubbing it against the stain before you soak it. Be sure to rinse the cheesecloth very thoroughly after to wash out all the vinegar and lemon juice. They can attract fruit flies if not completely rinsed out of the cheesecloth. Boil the cheesecloth for 5 minutes for extra sterilization. Bring a large pot of water to boil. Place your cheesecloth inside and let it boil for at least 5 minutes. This will kill any lingering bacteria that may be left in the cheesecloth. It's a good idea to boil the cheesecloth every time after you use it, whether you've just rinsed it or if you've soaked it to get rid of stubborn debris. Rinse the cheesecloth before you launder it to get rid of food debris. Run the cheesecloth under hot water immediately after you use it so the food stains don't set into the cloth. Hang it to dry until you are ready to put it in the washing machine. It's best not to put wet cheesecloth pieces in the laundry basket because it can encourage mold growth. Wash high-quality cheesecloth in the washing machine. If you have a cheesecloth that's designed for reuse and made from a high-quality knit material (like cotton), you can wash it with other kitchen cloths. Use a detergent meant for delicate fabrics. It should be free of dyes or perfumes, which could damage the cheesecloth or leach out into your food. Use warm or hot water in the wash and cold water rinse with bleach. Avoid using a fabric softener when cleaning your cheesecloth. The extra fragrance and softening agents will leave a coating on your cheesecloth and can leach into your food the next time you use it. Cheesecloth that's labeled single-use cannot be washed in the washing machine. You may be able to hand wash it and reuse once or twice, but it's better to buy cheesecloth meant for reuse. Launder muslin with other towels in the washing machine. If you use muslin as an extra-sturdy cheesecloth alternative, you can easily wash it in your washing machine. Add it in the same load with your kitchen or bath towels. Check the label on your detergent to make sure it doesn't contain dyes or fragrances that could contaminate your food the next time you use the muslin. Avoid using fabric softener for your muslin, as it could cause buildup on the cloth that can leach into your food. The muslin will shrink after you wash it the first time. Pick a lightweight unbleached muslin as an easy to clean cheesecloth alternative. Unbleached muslin will have a natural cream color. Find muslin at your local fabric store. Tell them you are looking for muslin to use as cheesecloth for straining or squeezing. Dry the cheesecloth in the dryer or outside in the sun. After you've washed your cheesecloth by hand or in the washing machine, put it through a hot cycle in the dryer. You can also dry it outside in the sun if it's hot outside and it can dry quickly. Hang it on a clothesline or drape it over a clean chair in direct sunlight. Fold and store the cheesecloth in a plastic bag. When the cheesecloth is completely dry, fold it 2 or 3 times until it forms a small square or rectangle. Store it in a cool, dry place in an airtight plastic bag until you are ready to use it again. Reuse sterilized cheesecloth even if it's stained. Naturally, cheesecloth will get stained sooner or later. If the stain doesn't wash out in the laundry, it won't leach out into your food, either. Be sure to sterilize the cheesecloth by boiling it after you hand wash it or launder it in the washing machine. Dry the cheesecloth before you store it. If the stains really bother you, add bleach to your soak water the next time you wash the cheesecloth. Use ⁄ 4 cup (59 ml) bleach per 1 gallon (1.75 L) water.

Rinse your cheesecloth in hot water immediately after use. Soak the cheesecloth in a baking soda solution to remove tough debris. Add white vinegar or lemon juice to the soak water to fade stains and debris. Boil the cheesecloth for 5 minutes for extra sterilization. Rinse the cheesecloth before you launder it to get rid of food debris. Wash high-quality cheesecloth in the washing machine. Launder muslin with other towels in the washing machine. Dry the cheesecloth in the dryer or outside in the sun. Fold and store the cheesecloth in a plastic bag. Reuse sterilized cheesecloth even if it's stained.

https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Certificate-of-Authenticity

How to Get a Certificate of Authenticity

To get a certificate of authenticity for your collector's item, first gather any evidence to prove your item's origin. For example, look for a receipt, bill of sale, or a document of its previous ownership. If the item has a signature of the artist or designer, this will also help to authenticate it. Once you've collected your evidence, look online for a reputable authenticator in your area and take it to them. If it's a piece of jewelry, take it to a reputable jeweler. You'll need to pay a fee, which will vary between authenticators. Then, you'll receive your certificate of authenticity to prove your piece is legitimate.

Find an autograph authentication company. Autograph authentication companies can help you verify an autograph was legitimate. They use a combination of specialized autograph authentication equipment, as well as handwriting analysis and computer technology, to ascertain if an autograph is legitimate. If you obtained an autograph secondhand, this can be particularly helpful. If you intend to sell an autograph you obtained in person, this can also be helpful as potential buyers will know your autograph is real. The most recognizable authentication companies include Professional Sports Authenticator (PSA), James Spence Authentication (JSA), and Autograph Certification Experts (ACE). It's a good idea to go with one of these companies, as you want a recognizable company to authenticate your autograph. However, if there's an authentication company in your area, it may be less of a hassle to work with a local company. Work with your company to have a professional determine the autograph's authenticity. Once you've selected an authentication company, you can begin the authentication process. If you live close by to an authentication company, you can go in and talk to someone in person. You usually have to work with a company from a distance, however, and must mail in autographs or autographed items. Any organization you're working with will have different requirements. There are usually a number of forms you must fill out that require basic contact information as well as information on where you obtained your item. Many authenticators have specific guidelines for how items should be packaged as well. Most authentication companies charge a fee for evaluation, and may charge additional fees to issue you a certificate of authenticity. For example, JSA charges fees that range from $35 to $50 depending on the type of autograph you send. You are also generally responsible for all shipping fees. Receive your certificate of authenticity. Once your item has been evaluated, the authentication company will instruct you on how to receive a certificate of authenticity. There may be additional fees for certificates. Some companies, like PSA, grade autographs on a scale of 1 to 10. These grades determine how well an autograph has withstood the test of time, so keep in mind a very old autograph may receive a lower grade from some authenticators. Avoid attempting to authenticate faded or illegible autographs. It's not always worth it to get a certificate of authenticity. Faded or messy autographs are difficult to authenticate, and the process may be more trouble than it's worth. On occasion, an autograph you obtain in person may be rejected by an authentication company if the handwriting is messy or the paper is crinkled or faded. Illegible or fading autographs are hard to authenticate, and the process can be costly. Even if you can get a certificate verifying your autograph is authentic, a company may give you a low grade, potentially making the autograph difficult to sell. You may be better off keeping faded autographs for your own pleasure rather than attempting to authenticate and sell them. Gather materials to prove your item is authentic. If you want to authenticate a work of art, you need to prove to an authenticator your work is legitimate. You will need to show where you obtained your work, its history, and previous owners. When you obtain a piece of art, hold onto any paperwork related to that item. For example, hold onto to receipts and bills of sale. If you purchased a piece of artwork through a well known and respected art dealer, its more likely to be authentic. You should also obtain paperwork that can prove a piece is legitimate. This can include magazine articles on the item, the names of previous owners, and an artist's catalogue featuring the piece. Find a reputable authenticator. You do not want to have your artwork authenticated by just anyone. It's important you find a legitimate authenticator. As you begin searching for authenticators in your area, watch for signs the people you find are legitimate. You can start your search with a simple Google search. You can also ask at museums and art departments at universities. Workers or professors at these places may have experience with art authentication. Art authenticators should not issue certificates of authenticity for pieces outside their area of expertise. A scholar in renaissance oil paintings, for example, should not be issuing certificates of authenticity for the works of Jackson Pollock. Art authenticators should have an extensive process for issuing the certificate. They should have a team of experts looking at your art instead of relying solely on their own appraisal. Google the name of a potential authenticator. You should find things in your Google search showing this person is an expert. The authenticator should have published papers about the artist in question, curated galleries of works by this artist, and have studied the artist extensively in school. Present your art to an authenticator. Once you've found a solid authenticator, arrange to have him or her examine your art. You may have to make a trip if you cannot find an authenticator in your area. In addition to presenting the art, bring in your evidence that it is authentic. The biggest things authenticators look for is called provenance. This is essentially the history of documented ownership, as authenticators may be able to trace a work back to the original artist to authenticate it. Make sure you bring in any information you have regarding past owners of your piece. If you are able to trace ownership back to the original artist, physical examination of the work is not needed. If physical examination is necessary, the authenticator may have to work with multiple people to determine authenticity. Receive your certificate of authenticity. If your art is found to be legitimate, work with the authenticator to receive your certificate. Fees and the process vary from one authenticator to the next. Ask your authenticator what steps you have to take to get the certificate. It's very important to have a certificate of authenticity if you plan on selling an artwork. As art forgery is common, buyers are unlikely to waste time on artwork that has not been proven to be legitimate. Look for designer signatures. It can be easier to get a piece of jewelry authenticated if you can find a signature of the designer somewhere on the piece. Many designers leave something like their initials engraved in a piece of jewelry, so scour the piece for any markers of the designer. There may also be hallmarks left on the jewelry. These are stamps left by a specific company. For example, Cartier jewelry is stamped with an eagle head. If you can designer signatures, this is a good start. However, more information is needed. There are forgeries in the jewelry world, so a stamp or signature may not be enough to authenticate a piece. Have the item examined by a jeweler to determine its cut, clarity, carat, and carat weight. Cut, clarity, carat, and carat weight are referred to as the 4 C's of gemstone certification. This information should be included on a certificate of authenticity, as it can help assess how much the piece is worth. Take your item to a local jeweler for appraisal. The cut refers to the shape of the gem, as gems and diamonds are cut into a variety of shapes. The clarity is the gem's purity. Diamonds, for example, are easier to see through when they're purer. Diamonds, and some other gems, are graded on color. In general, less color variation means the gem is worth more. Carat weight refers to the weight of the piece. Heavier jewelry is generally worth more. Have a certified gemologist appraiser or independent certified gemologist appraiser of the American Gem Society appraise your jewelry. It's vital to work with the American Gem Society (AGS) at some point when authenticating a piece. You should hire an appraiser associated with the AGS to examine your piece. You can find a legitimate authenticator in your area through the websites of the AGS. There is a search tool where you can look for reputable appraisers in your areas. Not all appraisers will provide you a certificate. However, having an appraisal and confirmation of a piece's legitimacy from an AGS appraiser is important. You may have to hire a private authentication company to issue the certificate, but information from a qualified appraiser should be included. This can help your certificate look professional when you try to sell your jewelry. Check that your certification of authenticity is legitimate. When working with an authentication company, make sure you include all the necessary information. Do not work with companies that hand out certificates lacking certain details. Your certificate should include the 4 C's of your jewelry, and verify the diamonds or gems used are legitimate. The certificate should also include the origin of your gemstone. For example, it should say whether it was made authentically or found. It's very important your certificate include all this information. Buyers and dealers do not work with sellers that cannot provide legitimate certificates of authenticity.

Find an autograph authentication company. Work with your company to have a professional determine the autograph's authenticity. Receive your certificate of authenticity. Avoid attempting to authenticate faded or illegible autographs. Gather materials to prove your item is authentic. Find a reputable authenticator. Present your art to an authenticator. Receive your certificate of authenticity. Look for designer signatures. Have the item examined by a jeweler to determine its cut, clarity, carat, and carat weight. Have a certified gemologist appraiser or independent certified gemologist appraiser of the American Gem Society appraise your jewelry. Check that your certification of authenticity is legitimate.

https://www.wikihow.com/Do-%22K%E2%80%90Pop%22-Style-Makeup

How to Do "K‐Pop" Style Makeup

To do Korean "K-Pop" style makeup, start by applying lotion and a primer, which will moisturize your skin and reduce the appearance of pores. Then, apply some BB cream and a face powder to finish your base. Next, apply some brown eyeshadow and winged eyeliner. You should also apply some gold, white, or cream eyeliner near your tear ducts, which is very popular in Korean makeup. Finally, finish your look with some mascara and cherry lip gloss.

Assemble an arsenal of beauty products. Get skin care products, including a lotion which makes your skin moist, a primer base (pore cover), a liquid foundation like BB cream, and face powder. You will also need black or brown eyeliner, eye shadows, eyebrow liner, teardrop liner which is kind of a glitter popular among Korean girls, and lip tint. To get a more authentic Korean look, shop at Korean stores or online, or get product recommendations from your Korean friends. South Korea produces a lot of innovative new beauty products like the cushion compact case, so pay attention to trends and buy Korean products. . Care for your skin Koreans value clear, dewy skin, so set up an extensive skin care routine to make sure your skin is hydrated, clear, and free from oils, pimples, or any other blemishes. Start by removing all makeup. Use an oil cleanser to clean your face thoroughly, then exfoliate with a natural scrub. Use a toner or refresher, an ampoule or essence to brighten your skin, and a sheet mask to hydrate your skin. Pat rather than rub eye cream around your eyes, apply a layer of moisturizer, and then add a night cream to help your skin refresh overnight. Get your eyebrows waxed. Many Korean girls wear their eyebrows straight and thick, so waxing your eyebrows will help achieve the look. In addition, shaping your eyebrows differently can affect the perception of your overall face, so it's important to choose a style that will enhance your face shape. Use your eyebrows as an easy way to make your face structure look more Korean. Create a base layer. Use lotion and a primer base, which will help reduce the look of pores. Apply a foundation with SPF, such as a BB cream. Then add face powder to finish your base. Consider using an anti-sebum powder, which reduces oil on your face. This is a very commonly-used product in South Korea. Apply eye shadow. Use any color you want, but a medium shade of brown will often look best. Use a darker shade near the eye and on the outside edge of your eyelash to create a 3D appearance. Add eyeliner. Add wings by extending it past the end of the eye on the outside and turning it slightly up, to give you almost a catlike look. Then extend your eyeliner on the inside of the eye no more than 3 mm, just below your tear duct. This will widen and flatten your eyes, which is one of the defining features of Korean makeup. Apply teardrop eyeliner underneath your eyes to give them a sparkling look that is very Korean. Popular colors include: gold, white, and cream. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/1c\/Make-Your-Face-Like-Korean-Girls-Step-6Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Make-Your-Face-Like-Korean-Girls-Step-6Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1c\/Make-Your-Face-Like-Korean-Girls-Step-6Bullet1.jpg\/aid3110839-v4-728px-Make-Your-Face-Like-Korean-Girls-Step-6Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Add mascara and a cherry lip gloss to complete the look. Remember, this is just your basic makeup. Focus on different aspects of your makeup to achieve different effects. Pick aspects of your face that look most Korean to emphasize with your makeup, or focus on using your makeup to hide or change other areas. Understand that you don't need to dye your hair brown or black. The goal of this article isn't to look more ethnically Korean, it's to use Korean beauty techniques to make you look the way you want to look. Also, Kpop artists dye their hair very frequently, so in pop culture, hair color is much more varied than you'd think. Style your hair to show off your face structure. The way you wear your hair can highlight certain aspects of your face, so make sure you pick the best haircuts and styles to go with your face structure. Observe Korean hairstyles to find your favorites. Pay attention to trends in Korean hairstyles and adopt those that will work best for you. Popular styles include long straight hair with bangs, long and wavy hair with a center part, short cropped hair, and clips or large bows as hair accessories. Understand that there is no need to change your eye color. Again, although Koreans typically have dark brown eyes, there is no need to change your eye color. In fact, many Kpop artists occasionally wear colored contacts to change their eye color to look blue or light brown. Colored contacts won't affect how you see, and you generally won't need a prescription to get them. Wear circle contacts to make your pupils look bigger. This is a recent trend in South Korea and throughout Asia. Wearing these contacts will help you fit into Korean beauty standards, which emphasize large, puppy-dog eyes. Contacts can be expensive and, if you have never used them before, dangerous to put on, so make sure you're serious about contacts before you buy them. Learn how to use them before trying to put them on yourself. Understand that double eyelids are considered pretty in Korea. Despite common belief, there is no stereotypical "Asian eye"--however, because double eyelids are generally seen as more desirable than monolids, it's become more and more popular to try to get double eyelids. In fact, it's one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in South Korea. However, you can still achieve the look without surgery. There are many special glues or tapes available to create it. As with all products, be careful when using tapes or glues for extended periods of time. They can damage your eyes and face if used continually, causing sagging eyelids or eye inflammation. It isn't necessary to change your monolids if you have them, though, because many celebrities and many more average people choose to be happy with the way they look naturally. Some examples of monolid celebrities include: soloists Baek Ah Yeon and Boa, and Minah from Girl's Day. Use makeup to create big dolly eyes. Highlight under your eyebrows with a highlighting makeup pen to make your eyes look big and innocent. Finish the look with your favorite eyeshadow and eyeliner to make you look Korean. Create cat eyes for a classic Korean look. Extend your eyeliner upwards away from your eye to create a dramatic, catlike look. Fill it in with smoky eyeshadow to complete the effect. Try puppy-dog eyes to make you look younger. This recent style emphasizes youth and vitality rather than the dramatic sensuality of the cat eye. Achieve this look by extending your eyeliner downwards from the outside corner of your eye to form a triangle. Fill it in with eyeliner or a dark eyeshadow for a more subtle look. Try out aegyo sal, a style that emphasizes little puffs of fat under the eyes to make you look young and innocent. This style works well with puppy eyes or your basic makeup to help you reach more Korean beauty standards. Achieve this look with eyeliner or dark eyeshadow carefully applied about half a centimeter below the bottom of your eye. Avoid matte lip looks. As mentioned before, having a dewy, moist look is essential for Korean beauty. Lip glosses and tints, rather than a drier lipstick, are the way to go. Although very natural makeup looks are the norm, many people wear bright red lip gloss/lip tint. Use gradient lips. This is a style first used on a Korean drama that has since grown hugely popular. Apply a bright pink color lipstick to the inside of your lips. Apply a little foundation to the outside of your lips. Blend the two products across your lips, so that they form a consistent gradient. Once you've gotten practice, try other colors like red, orange, peach, or brighter pinks. This is probably the most ubiquitous Korean beauty trend. Despite its popularity, it's sometimes considered a bit weird-looking to Westerners, so don't be surprised if you get confused glances.

Assemble an arsenal of beauty products. . Get your eyebrows waxed. Create a base layer. Apply eye shadow. Add eyeliner. Add mascara and a cherry lip gloss to complete the look. Understand that you don't need to dye your hair brown or black. Style your hair to show off your face structure. Observe Korean hairstyles to find your favorites. Understand that there is no need to change your eye color. Wear circle contacts to make your pupils look bigger. Understand that double eyelids are considered pretty in Korea. Use makeup to create big dolly eyes. Create cat eyes for a classic Korean look. Try puppy-dog eyes to make you look younger. Try out aegyo sal, a style that emphasizes little puffs of fat under the eyes to make you look young and innocent. Avoid matte lip looks. Use gradient lips.

https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-with-a-Bad-Boss

How to Deal with a Bad Boss

The best way to deal with a bad boss is to keep a professional attitude by focusing on being a good team member, which will make you look good. Additionally, discuss work-related topics with your boss throughout the workday to maintain your working relationship. However, if their behavior becomes inappropriate, bring the issue to human resources or their supervisor. When you report the behavior, bring a record of what happened, such as emails or a calendar with noted entries.

Speak up. If you are struggling to have a good relationship with your boss , then you shouldn't stew in silence. Talking to your boss about the problems you're having in a calm, polite, and professional manner can help you work together to resolve them. Of course, the type of relationship you have and the type of person your boss is can affect how you approach your conversation, but in general, saying something and trying to improve the relationship is superior to getting angry and frustrated and not being able to get your work done. You'd be surprised by how many bosses have no idea that the people they are managing are feeling overlooked, angry, frustrated, or like they're getting mixed signals. When you voice your concerns with your boss, then he or she will be grateful that you said something. If you never say anything to your boss about it, then there are almost no chances that your work relationship or your work environment will improve. Saying something is unpleasant, but it'll be worth it in the long run. You should carefully plan what you'll say, ask your boss to set a time to talk, and come prepared with evidence and examples of times when you were frustrated with your situation. Work with your boss, not against him or her. Though it may feel good to undermine your boss or to make him or her look foolish or incompetent, in the long run, it's far better to help your boss look better and to achieve goals that are good for you and the company. If you spend your time making your boss look incompetent at meetings or sabotaging your boss's efforts to get work done, then you'll only be poisoning your relationship and your work environment. Instead of making things work for yourself, try to help your boss achieve goals and everything will run more smoothly. Sure, the last thing you may want to do is to work with someone you don't really respect all that much. But this is far better than constantly being at odds with someone you work with. Keep track of all of your interactions. Though documenting all of the annoying or horrible things your boss has done to you may not sound like the greatest way to spend your time, you should start doing this once you feel like the situation has gotten out of hand. Keep all of your negative email correspondences, save memos that show that your boss is giving mixed messages, and just do whatever you can to document all of the problems you have had in your professional relationship. This is advisable for two reasons: One, if you and your boss discuss your problematic relationship and your boss acts like he or she doesn't know what you're talking about, then you have something to point to as proof. If your boss just hears that you're getting mixed messages, it's less effective than showing him or her two emails with completely different messages. If your boss is the type to bring false charges against you, then documenting all of your interactions, or even having your communication in front of others, can help you set the record straight. Don't bad mouth your boss to your coworkers. Saying negative things about your boss to your coworkers will only fuel the fire at best or get you in trouble at worst. Though you may feel tempted to vent about your boss's managerial style, you should keep your negative feelings to yourself. Having your coworkers join you in complaining about your boss won't make the problem go away, and if the wrong coworker catches word of what you're saying, it may get back to your boss in a very unpleasant way. You should especially avoid saying anything negative about your boss to your superiors. This won't help your reputation. Remember that you want to look like the agreeable person who gets along with everyone, not like the crank who is always complaining about everyone in the office. Anticipate problems before they happen. Another way to improve your relationship with your boss to is to watch out for future problems and try to make them go away before something blows up. Think of it as anticipating the tantrum of a toddler: if you hear your boss begin to fume on the other side of the hallway, you better have prepared something to say to calm him down, or have found a way to stay out of the situation. If you know your boss pretty well, then you should know the kinds of things that set him or her off, and you'd be better off if you came up with a game plan before things exploded. If you know that a coworker is going to introduce a major problem in the office at a meeting, you can talk to your boss about the problem in advance so he or she feels prepared. If you know that your boss is in a foul mood whenever it's raining and he is stuck in traffic, be prepared for some good news when he or she walks in the door. Work around your boss's weaknesses. Sure, it may be tempting to exploit your boss's weaknesses, but that won't get you very far in your company or your work environment. Instead, work to help your boss to counteract his or her weaknesses so that everything runs more efficiently and with less conflict. If your boss is chronically late to meetings, offer to kick off the next meeting for him or her. If your boss is disorganized, offer to get the next report into shape before you have to present it to your clients. Look for places where you can really help your boss and jump at the opportunity. If you help your boss get things in order, then your relationship will have to improve. Your boss may even be grateful for it. Praise your boss when he or she gets it right. Many managers never receive praise because somehow, it is mistakenly believed that praise should only flow from managers to employees. You may be nervous about approaching your manager to offer advice, but good managers are truly grateful for constructive, useful feedback, and will appreciate any opportunity they get to learn how to do a better job. However, be careful not to flatter a bad boss, because that won't get you anywhere. Your boss will be impressed at your attempt to make him or her feel more positive about his or her managing style and everything will run more smoothly. Keep in mind that there is a difference between a bad relationship and a bad boss. A bad boss is one who is intentionally mean or unethical and is not receptive to dealing with you in an honest and open way. A bad relationship is an inability to communicate or work together to achieve mutually-beneficial goals. When you approach your situation with your boss, you should focus on the relationship instead of the person. This will help you keep your cool and to find a productive way to address the situation. Make sure you're acting right. Before you go and blame your boss for all of the problems in your relationship, you should ask yourself whether or not there are aspects of your own performance that can be improved. You may feel like you're acting perfectly, but you should make sure that you're actually meeting the goals you were supposed to meet, pulling your weight with projects, and communicating effectively. Ask yourself if there's anything you can do to improve your own behavior, and if that could be leading to some of the problems you're having with your boss. Of course, maybe your boss really is completely unreasonable and there's nothing you can do to improve how he or she treats you. But it's better to have your bases covered, just in case. Don't lose your sense of humor. A healthy dose of humor can help you approach your relationship with your boss and to not take the whole thing too seriously. Though there may not be anything funny about workplace conflict, you have to take a step back and remind yourself that, at the end of the day, your work is not your whole life and that you have plenty of meaningful relationships and outside interests apart from the workplace that give your life meaning. The next time your boss frustrates or just plain annoys you, learn to laugh about it, brush it off, and not to take it so darn seriously all the time. Of course, if your boss is downright offensive, discriminatory, or acting ridiculously out of line, then there's nothing funny about it. But learning to laugh off some of the run-of-the-mill everyday annoyances can help you improve your attitude about your relationship. Be professional at all times. Though you may be tempted to slander your boss, to act childish, to show up late to work just out of spite, or even to do something as silly as stealing your boss's stapler, these antics won't get you anywhere. Even if you find that your boss is childish or immature, you should not stoop down to his or her level and maintain your professional nature at all times — after all, you have to remember that you're at work, not having a bar brawl or chewing out your friend over the phone. Work to maintain your calm and dignity, so that your boss will be the one who looks unprofessional if you have a conflict. If you act unprofessionally, that will reflect poorly on you and your future prospects at your company. You don't want the other people you work with to think you're childish just because your boss is driving you crazy. Don't fight fire with fire. If you and your boss have an altercation, it may feel good to start fighting back with harsh words or abusive language, but only temporarily. Even if your boss blows up at you, you should avoid using offensive language, being aggressive, making personal attacks, or doing anything else that you may want to do to get some of that frustration off your chest. Though it may feel good in the short run, in the long run, you'll only be damaging your relationship further and also incriminating yourself. You want to walk out of there taking the high road, not being implicated in your boss's antics. If you feel yourself getting so angry that you might say something that you regret, excuse yourself and come back when you feel ready to talk again. Focus on the problem instead of your boss. If you focus on your boss instead of the problem at hand, then you are liable to get frustrated and to make things personal. Instead of getting angry at your boss for being disorganized, confusing, or distant, you should work on addressing the problem at work, whether it's that you have trouble running efficient meetings or that it's difficult for your coworkers to work together on a project because your boss gives you mixed signals. See how you can tackle this problem both by working with your boss and working apart from him. Looking at the problem at work instead of the potentially frustrating behavior of your boss will make your actions to improve your situation more productive. If you focus more on just how your boss is acting, you are liable to make things personal. Talk to your supervisor. If the problem has really gotten out of hand, then your best bet may be to talk to your boss's supervisor or someone higher up in the company. If you've tried everything or have just thought it through and realized that there is nothing else you can do, then your best bet may simply be to take the problem to the next level. Talk to your supervisor about the problem. Make it clear that you'd really like to make things work at your company but that you just haven't been able to work with your boss. Be as calm and professional as possible, even if you are upset. Focus on productivity, not emotions. Don't complain about how your boss is mean or rude, but focus on work-related aspects of the job, such as the fact that your lack of communication makes it difficult to get work done. Don't bad mouth your boss to your supervisor. Be as kind as possible while voicing your concerns. Don't say that your boss is crazy or completely insane; instead, talk about how your boss has been a bit inflexible or has been changing objectives a lot. You don't want to end up saying something that makes you look like it's hard for you to keep your cool or to get along with others. Find another mentor within your company. Your boss doesn't have to be the be all and end all to you when you come in to work. If you want to stay at your job but know that you have a difficult relationship with your boss, then you may be better off trying to find someone else at the company who is pleasant to work with and who has a lot to teach you, so that you can focus on other positive relationships. If you've been working with someone you really admire, see if you can find a way to spend more time with that person and to learn more from him or her; this will lead you to have a more positive work experience. If you and the person are friendly and cooperative, then perhaps he or she can shed some light on strategies for best working with your boss. You don't have to bad mouth your boss to get some insight into how to approach your relationship with him. The person can offer some valuable insight about this, especially if he or she has been at the company longer than you. Ask to be transferred to a different department. Another way you can deal with a bad boss, once you realize you just can't work together, is to simply ask to be transferred to a different department in your company. If you want to stay at the company but have determined that you simply can't work with your boss any more, then your best bet may be to talk to your supervisor about finding a better fit for you within the company. You'll be able to start a new with a better working relationship with a more understanding boss. If you have worked well with others in the past and have simply found it impossible to work with this particular boss, then it won't reflect poorly on you. In fact, you'll be much better off for taking the initiative to improve your situation. Take action if you feel you've been discriminated against. If this is the case for you, then it's important that you consult the EEOC (for free) or an employment attorney (for a fee) if you believe you have been discriminated against and you are in a protected class. Some conflicts involve disagreement about what is legal. Whistle blowers who report violations may have legal protections, and may consider raising their concerns outside the normal chain of command. If the conflict arises from a fraud to obtain money from the government, whistle blowers may need to follow special procedures to protect their rights. The False Claims Act requires that whistle blowers with original knowledge of such fraud be the first to file their claim, and refrain from public disclosure of certain information about their claim. Consider whether or not it's worth it for you to leave. If your situation with your boss has gotten so bad that you can't see a way out of it without leaving the company, then you have to do some soul searching to figure out the right thing to do. If your work situation is hurting your health, your self-esteem, and your general well-being, and there's no way to get transferred or to improve the situation, then it may be time to clock out. However, keep in mind that it can be pretty challenging to find a job, especially in today's economy, and that you should consider whether it's worth it for you to start the search again. Of course, you can do what many people do when they are unhappy at work: start applying for other jobs while you're still at your current job. This will make you a more desirable candidate because you're already employed, and it'll give you a sense of what the market out there is like. However, if your situation at work is truly intolerable, then you can't make any excuses about the job market to force yourself to stay. You'll know where your breaking point is. Do your research before switching jobs. Some people are so eager to leave their current work situations that they are desperate to take the very next job that gives them an offer. However, before you go and make this step, you should talk to other people at the company, talk to your future boss, and do your research to make sure that you're not escaping a terrible work situation for one that is just as bad. Though you may be eager to leave, it won't benefit you to begin a situation that is no better than the one you escaped. When you accept a new job offer, you should do so with having any bad feelings in your gut about your future boss. Once you make this choice, you'll be on your way to having a productive and healthy working life.

Speak up. Work with your boss, not against him or her. Keep track of all of your interactions. Don't bad mouth your boss to your coworkers. Anticipate problems before they happen. Work around your boss's weaknesses. Praise your boss when he or she gets it right. Keep in mind that there is a difference between a bad relationship and a bad boss. Make sure you're acting right. Don't lose your sense of humor. Be professional at all times. Don't fight fire with fire. Focus on the problem instead of your boss. Talk to your supervisor. Find another mentor within your company. Ask to be transferred to a different department. Take action if you feel you've been discriminated against. Consider whether or not it's worth it for you to leave. Do your research before switching jobs.

https://www.wikihow.com/Submit-a-Press-Release

How to Submit a Press Release

To submit a press release with proper etiquette, make sure the headline and first paragraph show that the release is newsworthy. Then, check the outlet's website for submission guidelines, which usually ask you to fax, mail, or e-mail the release. If you choose to e-mail it, type or paste the document directly into the email since many journalists won't download attachments. Finally, share any pictures through a service like Dropbox to keep the e-mail small and out of the junk mail folder.

Send your release to your local media outlets. Daily newspaper in your community: Contact the City Editor or the editor in charge of the section that relates to your content. Weekly newspaper: Editor Magazine: Editor or Managing Editor Radio stations: News Director or PSA Director (if sending a public service announcement) TV stations: News Director Target newspapers, online newspapers or other media outlets in geographic areas where you want to expand your business. Submit your press release to key players in your field including noted bloggers and industry leaders. Find the e-mail address of important bloggers in your field and e-mail them copies of your press release. Look up the names of key people in your industry. For example, if you are a member of a trade association, then find the person in charge of media relations in your association. Send your press release to that person via fax, e-mail or snail mail. Use a distribution service. If you don't have time to research outlets for your press releases, then work with someone who can help you. Note that free press release distribution services typically offer limited exposure. With a small fee, most PR distribution agencies will be able to get your press release to news wire sites as well as media agencies. Your goal is to reach out to as many people as possible. At the end of this article, you will find a list of reputable PR distribution sites. Reread your press release and proof it for errors. Make sure that your headline and the first paragraph, in particular, communicate that your content is newsworthy. Research and follow each outlet's submission guidelines. Generally, your contacts will prefer to receive news releases either by fax, mail or e-mail. Send your release the way that the publication wants it sent. Don't worry too much about finding out which exact individual you should send your release to if you don't have a lot of time. Get the person's title right, and that should be sufficient. Determine the timing of your press release. Your release may need to coincide with an event or product launch. Otherwise, submit the release early in the week and early in the day. Choose an atypical time, such as 9:08 a.m. instead of 9:00 a.m. Doing this will keep your release from getting lost at the top of the hour. Submit your press release according to the required guidelines. Type or paste your content directly into the body of an e-mailed press release. Many journalists delete e-mails with attachments because they take too much time to download and may contain viruses. Send your press release to 1 publication at a time or blind carbon copy (BCC) the recipients to make the news release submission seem more personal. Some outlets may prefer that you upload the press release directly to their website over a secure submission platform. Add media such as photos and videos to your submission to increase your readership. Avoid sending media files over e-mail. Large files will clog an inbox and may end up in the junk mail folder. Send your contact person a link to your media through a service like Box or Dropbox. Alternatively, state that photos and videos are available upon request. Follow up with a phone call. Ask if the recipient has received the release and offer assistance or further information as needed.

Send your release to your local media outlets. Target newspapers, online newspapers or other media outlets in geographic areas where you want to expand your business. Submit your press release to key players in your field including noted bloggers and industry leaders. Use a distribution service. Reread your press release and proof it for errors. Research and follow each outlet's submission guidelines. Determine the timing of your press release. Submit your press release according to the required guidelines. Add media such as photos and videos to your submission to increase your readership. Follow up with a phone call.

https://www.wikihow.com/Train-a-Rottweiler-to-Be-a-Guard-Dog

How to Train a Rottweiler to Be a Guard Dog

Before you train your Rottweiler to be a guard dog, you'll need to teach it basic obedience with commands like "sit," "stay," and "speak." Then, practice leaving your dog at home alone and having someone it doesn't know knock on a window or shake the fence to your yard. If your Rottweiler barks, have the person run away, and then give your dog a treat to reinforce the behavior. Repeat the process so your dog learns to bark at strangers whenever they come onto your property.

Start with the “sit” command. Take your Rott to a quiet, calm room and get its attention by showing it a treat or a toy. Using a calm, friendly tone, say “sit” as you raise the treat or toy above your Rott's head. As your Rott follows what you have in your hand, it will lose its balance and sit its butt on the floor. Once they're sitting, immediately give them the treat or toy. You should repeat this process often, so your dog learns the command. If your Rott isn't putting its butt down, gently press on its back above its tail so it learns that “sit” means putting its butt on the ground. You can use toys or treats to teach this command, but since Rotts are notorious for easily becoming overweight, toys might be the better route. Teach your dog the “no” command. When you see your dog doing something they shouldn't, say “no” in a firm voice, in a lower tone than you normally use. Your dog will learn that this tone of voice means they are being disciplined. If “no” doesn't work right away, repeat it while showing your dog what you don't want them to do. As soon as your Rott stops, continue with whatever you were doing as normal. For example, if your dog is chewing on a shoe, tell them “no” in your disciplining voice. If they keep chewing, repeat “no” in the same tone of voice and take the shoe away. Teach your dog to “stay” last. Put your Rott's collar and leash on it. Ask your dog to sit first (and praise it when it does). Say “stay” in a firm, clear voice, and slowly back away, letting your dog's leash run through your hand. If your dog walks toward you, tell them “no” and “sit.” Once they do, continue walking backwards. Repeat this process until your dog actually stays. Then walk to your dog and give it a toy or treat. Don't tug on your Rott's leash, since this will tell it to move. Don't have your Rott come to you for its reward, since this is the opposite of what you're trying to teach them with “stay.” Teach your dog to “speak. ” Since dogs bark from time to time, this is an easy command to teach. When the doorbell rings or someone knocks on the door and your Rott barks, say “speak,” and give them a treat. This associates barking, the command “speak,” and a reward in your Rott's brain and teaches them the command. If you don't have a doorbell, show your Rott a treat and get it excited about it by using an excited voice yourself. Get your Rott to sit, and then show it the treat and say “speak.” Even if your Rott makes a soft grunt, praise it and give it the treat. Teach impulse control. Once your Rott has the basic commands down, use them when you have other people in your home. If there's a lot of people around and you tell your Rott to sit, it will learn that it doesn't have to protect your home from everyone who comes in. Socialize your dog. You don't want your Rott to think that all strangers are a threat. Take your dog for walks frequently, including at dog parks. Invite friends and family over and let your dog get used to them. This way, your Rott learns that not all strangers are threats. Consider professional training. You can train your Rott to be a guard dog, but you can also have them trained professionally. Professional trainers will know exactly how to treat and teach your dog safely and quickly. If you don't want to get your dog trained by a professional, you can read a book on dog training. Many bookstores have "animal" sections, or you can find training books online. Run your properties boundaries with your Rott. This teaches your Rott what is “theirs” and what they should eventually protect. Leave your dog alone where it should be guarding. Once your Rott has learned basic commands and knows the boundaries of your property, leave it alone there. This will teach your Rott that this is their area to guard, because you're not there to do it. Ask someone your dog doesn’t know to come up and make noise. If your dog is in the yard, this person can knock on or shake the fence. If your dog is inside, ask this person to knock on the window. They shouldn't make a lot of noise, just enough to get your Rott's attention. The person you ask should not be familiar to your dog. If your dog catches this person's scent and it's someone they know, they won't guard the house against them. Have the stranger pretend to be frightened and run when your dog barks. This teaches your dog that when someone they don't know causes a disruption, they should bark to scare them away. It will also increase your dog's confidence. If your dog instead runs up to the stranger with its tail wagging, try it again. Restrain your dog if necessary. When you're having a "stranger" help you train your dog, keep their safety in mind. If your dog has a tendency to snap at others, make sure they have their leash on and that their leash is secured. This keeps your dog from being able to bite anyone. Reward your dog’s protective behavior. Once the person you've asked to help runs away, go to your dog and praise it and give it a treat. This will teach it that there certain situations in which it should protect your home. Stay near enough to your dog so that it can hear you. But you shouldn't be close enough that it can see you, since that will tell the dog you're there to protect your territory. You need to be there to give your dog the proper commands when they become distracted. Ask the “stranger” to introduce distractions. The stranger can start with something like a piece of meat. If there is anything that particularly distracts your Rott, ask the “stranger” to repeat the process with those things. Tell your dog “no” when it goes to investigate. When your dog stops barking and goes to inspect the distraction, say “no” from where you are. This will teach your dog that although their job is protect this area, they shouldn't be distracted by other things. Reward your Rott when they ignore the distraction. When your Rott begins barking at the “stranger” again, have the stranger run off and then reward your Rott. This will teach it that what is should do is ignore the distraction and protect your home.

Start with the “sit” command. Teach your dog the “no” command. Teach your dog to “stay” last. Teach your dog to “speak. Teach impulse control. Socialize your dog. Consider professional training. Run your properties boundaries with your Rott. Leave your dog alone where it should be guarding. Ask someone your dog doesn’t know to come up and make noise. Have the stranger pretend to be frightened and run when your dog barks. Restrain your dog if necessary. Reward your dog’s protective behavior. Stay near enough to your dog so that it can hear you. Ask the “stranger” to introduce distractions. Tell your dog “no” when it goes to investigate. Reward your Rott when they ignore the distraction.

https://www.wikihow.com/Improve-Your-Decision%E2%80%90Making-Skills

How to Improve Your Decision‐Making Skills

Improving your decision-making skills is all about thinking rationally and considering the consequences of each possibility. Before you make any decision, do as much research as you can about the outcomes so you're not missing any key information. Think about the long-term consequences of your decision, not just how it affects you right now. For example, if have just enough money to get a new car on credit, think about other things you might need to pay for in the future, like repairs and maintenance. It's easy to get emotionally involved in important decisions, but try to focus on the facts, since your emotions can easily change. Consider writing down the pros and cons of each option to help you work out which one is objectively better. If you're not confident with the decision you end up with, step back from the situation and give yourself time to think about it. This will help you avoid making impulsive, emotional decisions.

Gather information about the situation. Understand the factors involved in the problem or situation. Talk with the involved parties or research what additional information you may need to make an informed decision. Avoid making a decision based on limited information. Critically think about what is the important information needed to make a decision. Prioritize the most important pieces of information first. For example, let's say you're planning for what to do after high school. Think about your interests, school performance, finances, and family which may all factor into your decision. Take some time to gather the information, rather than basing your decision on too-little information. Make a list of questions you want the information-gathering session to answer in order to keep the search focused. Avoid making impulsive or emotionally-charged decisions. If you're too emotionally invested in the issue, your judgment may be clouded. Avoid acting impulsively, and instead use careful, rational thinking. Focus on the facts of the situation rather than your ego, personality differences, or impulsive desires. Making decisions when anxious, stressed, or upset will likely lead to poorer outcomes. Learn to take a step back when you know you may be acting out of emotion. Avoid being pressured into making a decision. Learn to say to others, "I want to make sure that I am making an informed decision. I need to take a step back and think about this more clearly." Give yourself time to thoughtfully make a decision. Oftentimes, you may feel rushed to make decisions. Sometimes those are big decisions that require more thought and careful examination. Don't feel obligated to make a decision before you're ready. For example, let's say that your friends invite you for an overnight backpacking trip this weekend, but you had made plans to help your family with some important housework and still have school work to finish. Make sure to give yourself time to reflect on your other responsibilities before you say "yes." Depending on the situation, it is usually good to give yourself at least a few hours or more to make decisions that could affect your day or week. But if the decision affects your long-term plans, a few days or more will give you more time to process the situation. Look at the situation in both the short-term and long-term. Oftentimes, you may be so focused on the short-term problems that you don't look at the situation from a long-term perspective. Being short-sighted will likely have a negative impact in the long-run. For example, let's say you just got paid. You want to go out and have fun with your friends, but at the same time you want to be able to save for a future car. You think about how much fun it would be to party and go to a concert, but then you realize that you can't afford to party each weekend and save at the same time. Consider the possible risks of failing to think long-term. You may not be able to afford a car when you need one, or you may be faced with unexpected expenses and not have the money to pay for them. Weigh the costs and benefits of the situation. For each decision that you make, whether you're buying an item at a store, planning your career, or making life decisions, it's important to assess the costs and benefits of each. By weighing the pros and cons of the situation, you are likely to feel more in control of your decisions. See how your decision may impact you financially, professionally, emotionally, or physically. For example, you like to shop regularly for new clothes because it makes you feel good, but your weekly shopping trips are costing you a third of your income. Look at the financial costs and the personal benefits of regular shopping trips for new clothes. For big decisions, you may want to write down the pros and cons of the decision. For example, let's say that you are thinking about changing careers, this may require more work and time to assess your decision. Focus on the high priorities first. When making a decision, consider ranking your priorities from high to low. Understand what matters to you most in this situation. Consider putting your responsibilities such as having an income or keeping your grades up as high priorities, while maintaining a balance by having time with friends and family. For example, let's say you're trying to decide whether to attend a close relative's birthday party, but you know that a big project is due on Monday. You had made plans to go to the party, but feel like you might not get your work done if you go. Learn to prioritize what can help you in the long term. If you fail to complete your project, you may face a lower grade or fail the class. Think about if this outweighs the benefits of holding on to your plans to go to a birthday party. Consider alternatives. Think about how there are likely alternatives in each situation. You may think the only option is one way or the other, and that's all. Avoid black and white thinking by understanding all the alternatives, including ways to compromise. Consider how each situation could have many different alternatives. Imagine that there is a Plan A, B, and C. While some plans seem more likely than others, it's important to carefully think about each option. For example, you want to trying to decide whether to buy a new car. You have your sights set on a specific make and model. But then you're concerned about how to afford it. Instead of just deciding between your current car or the one that you want, consider alternatives like buying a different type of car that may be lower priced, or a car that better fits the needs of your family. If your current car works, you could also consider saving up for the car you want, rather than taking out a loan. Plan for the possibility of errors or problems. Have a contingency plan in place so that you are not taken by surprise. Being prepared for the possible problems or issues that could arise will make you less stressed. While problems may not occur, it's better to anticipate them rather than ignore them. Planning ahead is a key part of better decision making. You can feel more confident when things don't go as planned. Plan for a "worst case scenario" about a situation. For example, you're considering a trip this winter, and planning to book your flight. When planning out your trip, have a plan in place about what might happen if you miss your flight, the flight is severely delayed, or the trip is cancelled. By thinking ahead, you are less likely to be frustrated in the middle of a problem. Learn to delegate tasks and boost others' decision-making skills. Avoid feeling that you are the only one responsible for a decision, particularly at work, in your family household, or in a team setting. Many decisions are made with input from more than one person. Help others to feel more confident in their decision-making in order to ease the pressure that you may be feeling. Some decisions impact more than just you. In those cases, it's important to have a variety of people's input. Make sure that others feel included in the decision-making process. Consider assigning people to various tasks that can help to gather information or plan ahead for problems. By utilizing others, this may help to enhance your decision-making. Whether you're a manager at work, a parent, or a leader for a group project, it's important to help others find their confidence so that better decisions are made. Make sure to get other people's input when making a big decision on a project. Talk with trusted friends, family, or experts on the matter. Ask others who you have trusted in the past. Consider seeking out experts or people who can provide clarification on a tricky situation, too. Avoid overlooking the wisdom of others who have been through similar situations, or may be clear-headed in their thinking. If you have been struggling to make a decision, talk with your trusted friends and family. Pick people who have offered sound and helpful advice in the past. Even if they are saying what you don't want to hear, think carefully about the pros and cons of what they say. Depending on the decision you're making, it may be necessary to seek expert advice, particularly if it is a major financial decision, a medical issue, or a legal matter. Find professionals that can give you an unbiased opinion on the situation. Distance yourself from the situation if needed. If you are continuing to feel overwhelmed or burdened by the decisions at hand, find ways to distance yourself. It is important that you take care of your mind and body, particularly during stressful situations. Get some rest. Consider taking a day off, or a few-hour break, from work, school, or family. Find a place where you can clear your thoughts and feel comfortable. Do an activity that you enjoy that helps to distract you from the challenges ahead. Exercise. Watch a movie. Read a book. Hang out with friends. Do something relaxing. Come back to the issue after a brief break. See if your mind is clearer. By supporting yourself, both mind and body, you will feel more prepared to face tough decisions.

Gather information about the situation. Avoid making impulsive or emotionally-charged decisions. Give yourself time to thoughtfully make a decision. Look at the situation in both the short-term and long-term. Weigh the costs and benefits of the situation. Focus on the high priorities first. Consider alternatives. Plan for the possibility of errors or problems. Learn to delegate tasks and boost others' decision-making skills. Talk with trusted friends, family, or experts on the matter. Distance yourself from the situation if needed.

https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Literary-Analysis

How to Write a Literary Analysis

Before writing a literary analysis, read the text and take notes on the main topics, common themes, and literary devices the author uses. Then, develop a thesis about what the author's purpose is and how they achieve those goals. Next, incorporate your thesis and main points into an introductory paragraph before using the body paragraphs of your essay to back them up. As you make your points, include quotes from the text to illustrate what you're trying to say. Finally, write a conclusion tying all your points together and restating your thesis.

Write down ideas as you read through the text. The first time you read through your text, take notes on things that stand out, such as the main conflict, the characters' motivations, the tone, and the setting. Mark pieces of the text that seem interesting or noteworthy. Does the author seem to be making a major statement in one section? Are they suddenly being more philosophical? Highlight or make a note about that section. For instance, one of the main quotes you see repeated from George Orwell's novel 1984 is "War is peace. Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength." As it's the Party's (the country's only political party) main slogan, that keys you into the fact that it's going to be important to the story. It's a good idea to use a certain color highlighter to mark this statement every time it's made. This makes it easier to spot the statement so you can analyze where, when, and why Orwell is repeating the line. Note the literary devices the author uses. Literary devices are things the author uses to tell the story or make a point. They could include alliteration, imagery, metaphors, allusions, allegories, repetition, flashback, foreshadowing, or any number of other devices the author employs to write the story or poem. For instance, imagery is how the author uses vivid language to help create mental pictures. It can set the tone of the work. Take this example from George Orwell's novel 1984, which is presented as the fourth paragraph in the novel: "Outside, even through the shut window-pane, the world looked cold. Down in the street little eddies of wind were whirling dust and torn paper into spirals, and though the sun was shining and the sky a harsh blue, there seemed to be no colour in anything, except the posters that were plastered everywhere." Just from this short text, you get a sense of the harshness of the world, drained of color and very cold. Focus on the key themes the author seems to be expressing. Themes are the major ideas the author seems to be repeating throughout the text. They can be things like religion, government, good versus evil, authority, social structure, coming-of-age, war, education, or human rights, to name a few. Identify the themes as early as you can in your reading, as this makes it easier to annotate examples of the themes as you read. In 1984, some of the main themes Orwell focuses on are war, authority, and social structure. Look at the form of the work. The form refers to how the text is constructed. In a long work, it can mean how the work is divided and whether it's in first-person or third-person. In a poem, look at the line breaks, the stanza arrangement, the shape of the poem, and even the negative space the writer uses. Think about why the author chose this particular form and how it helps present the ideas. Think about how the form and content relate to each other. Then, consider how they might be in tension with each other. For example, a poem often contains less information than a novel, so the writer might use the form to draw attention to the unknown or unanswered questions. Consider the historical context of the work. No work is written in a vacuum, so the time period and location where the author is writing will affect the text. Research where the author lived, the time period the novel was written in, and what was going on at the time. For instance, 1984 came out just after WWII in 1949, when fascism had threatened to take over the globe. However, equally important, Orwell had witnessed the problems of totalitarian regimes in places like Spain and wanted to warn against the advancement of totalitarianism in any form, from the political left or right. Decide what the author's purpose is in writing the text. An author can have several purposes for writing a text. Your job is to identify at least one of them you can write about. Don't worry about what you choose, as long as you can back up what you think the purpose is with evidence from the text. When identifying the author's purpose, examine the historical context of the novel, as well as the author's themes. You can also read other analyses and reviews of the text, as well as interviews of the author. For example, one of Orwell's main purposes in writing 1984 was to show how if citizens don't keep their government in check, it can lead to a totalitarian government where every movement and thought is scrutinized. Brainstorm about how the author shows their main purpose. Connect the notes you took on the text with what you consider to be one of the author's main purposes. Think about how the author is using these devices to make their point. For instance, in the slogan "War is peace. Freedom is slavery. Ignorance is strength," you get a introduction to the author's purpose. It gives the reader a view of what's ahead: citizens in this society are required to swallow contradictory statements from the government without question, a concept known in the novel as "doublethink." Decide on your argument by focusing your topic. Focus on one element of the story that exemplifies what you think the main purpose is. Think about what stands out about that particular topic to you. Why does it seem important? For example, maybe you decide that you want to focus on how imagery sets up the tone for the novel 1984. Why is that important? Without that imagery, the novel would be very different, and Orwell would have had difficulty setting up a believable world for the reader. Write a thesis statement. The thesis statement is the main idea of your paper. You want to cover your basic argument to let your readers know what you plan to argue. For a literary analysis, you should connect the main idea or theme of the work to a specific way the author shows it. For example, you might write, "In 1984, Orwell's use of imagery to establish a bleak and dreary world is key to bringing home his theme that totalitarianism is something to be avoided at all costs." Organize your argument from start to finish. How you organize your essay is up to you. One typical method is to go through the book in order, providing your evidence starting at the beginning of the book and moving towards the end. Alternatively, it may make sense to you to begin with a historical introduction to the work to provide context. Another method is to present your most important part of the argument first and work down from there. Set up your main ideas or paragraphs. Write down a Roman numeral for each main idea you want to cover in your essay, as well as your introduction and conclusion. Next to the Roman numeral, jot down that main idea in a shortened form. For instance, you might write: I. Introduction II. Provide background information and historical context for 1984 III. Introduce the author's main theme IV. Establish how imagery helps create the theme V. Conclusion Add the main points you want to cover in each paragraph. Under each Roman numeral, use letters and then Arabic numerals to go into more detail about what you want to cover in each section. You can be very specific or just cover the basics. However, the more specific you are, the easier it will be to write your essay. Your detailed outline might look something like this: I. Introduction A. Introduce work, including author, title, and date B. Thesis: In 1984, Orwell's use of imagery to establish a bleak and dreary world is key to bringing home his theme that totalitarianism is something to be avoided at all costs. II. Provide background information and historical context for 1984 A. Discuss World War II B. Bring up Orwell's experiences in Spain 1. Experiences of fascism influenced work 2. Feared totalitarianism on the right and left C. Coined phrase "cold war" III. Introduce the author's main theme A. Warning against totalitarianism 1. Party in complete control 2. No privacy, even for thoughts 3. Orwell thought this was the logical conclusion of a complete totalitarianism IV. Establish how imagery helps create the theme A. Book begins with bleak, colorless imagery, sets up tone B. Description of urban decay creates a feeling of the world falling apart B. Contrasting imagery when Winston has experiences with Julia, re-establishes purpose of main imagery V. Conclusion Introduce each main topic with a couple of introductory sentences. With each point you make, provide a short introduction to it at the beginning of the paragraph. This just establishes what the idea is. It can also connect the idea to the rest of your text. For instance, you might write, "From the very beginning of the novel, Orwell establishes that this world is bleak and dreary, one that no one would want to live in." When writing a literary analysis, you must draw your argument out through the whole essay. That means that with each paragraph you add, you need to connect it to the main thesis of the essay. Doing so helps your reader see the overall point you're making. Backup your points with quotes from the text. When you're writing a literary analysis, you must show your reader where you found the evidence in the text. That means, when you make an assertion about the text, you need to add a quote or paraphrase the text to back up what you're saying. Go over your annotations to find good quotes. Then, explain what the quote means and how it supports your point. Make sure your analysis of the quote takes up at least as much space as the quote itself. For example, you might add, "From the very beginning of the novel, Orwell establishes that this world is bleak and dreary, one that no one would want to live in; he writes: 'Outside, even through the shut window-pane, the world looked cold. Down in the street little eddies of wind were whirling dust and torn paper into spirals, and though the sun was shining and the sky a harsh blue, there seemed to be no colour in anything, except the posters that were plastered everywhere.'" Don't forget to provide proper citations for the text. Analyze how your evidence backs up the main point you're making. With this step, you need to answer why the point you're making is important. Show the reader that the evidence you provide relates to your main argument. For example, to complete the paragraph after the quote you provided, you might write the following: This world is harsh to inhabitants, "cold" and foreboding, without even color to break up the monotony. A bright, sunny day doesn't even provide a reprieve from this bleakness, and Orwell uses passages like these to establish that this world could be the future, a harsh reality with no escape into fantasy or pleasantries. Write your introduction. If you haven't already, fill in your introduction. Part of your introduction should be your main thesis, but you should also introduce the main points you want to make throughout the essay, as well as the work itself. Try to draw your reader in with your introduction. You could write: Imagine a world where every facial expression, every movement, every word you say is endlessly scrutinized by an overreaching government. Anyone who breaks the rules or steps out of line is punished harshly. If it sounds like a bleak reality that no one would want to live in, that was entirely George Orwell's point in writing the novel 1984, a book that creates a picture of a dystopian future where citizens are controlled by a totalitarian government. In 1984, Orwell's use of imagery to establish a bleak and dreary world is key to bringing home his theme that totalitarianism is something to be avoided at all costs. This point was driven home for him by his time spent in Spain under fascism, as well as political climate of the time, which was World War II." Create your conclusion. In the conclusion, you need to draw your argument back together and tie it up neatly for your reader. That way, they can see how everything fits together. For example, you might write: For Orwell, the fact that the world could be headed towards totalitarianism was disastrous. That fate, no matter whether it came from the right or left, was something every citizen should fight against. In his novel, Orwell shows the logical conclusion of a world controlled by totalitarianism, and it's through the literary device of imagery that he draws the reader into that world. Once the reader experiences that dreary world, they will want no part of a government that could thrust them into that harsh reality. Make sure your argument makes sense from beginning to end. Try to read through your essay as if you had never read the text you're analyzing. Can you follow the argument with just the assertions, evidence, and analysis you've provided? If you can't, try going back through and filling in any blanks. You can also ask a friend to read through it to see if they can follow it. Take out phrases like "I think" or "In my opinion. " When you're first writing a literary essay, you may be timid about your analysis. Most everyone is! However, when you present your argument, leave out these phrases. It weakens your argument, and signals to the reader you're not confident in what you're doing. Proofread your essay by reading it out loud. Watch for any mistakes your spellcheck catches, but you should also check it yourself. Reading it out loud helps you slow down and catch more mistakes in the text. For instance, you may notice words that are wrong or places where the sentence structure sounds a little funky. Let someone else proofread it. It always helps to have another set of eyes when proofreading. Ask a friend, parent, or classmate to go over your essay to see if they catch any grammatical mistakes.

Write down ideas as you read through the text. Note the literary devices the author uses. Focus on the key themes the author seems to be expressing. Look at the form of the work. Consider the historical context of the work. Decide what the author's purpose is in writing the text. Brainstorm about how the author shows their main purpose. Decide on your argument by focusing your topic. Write a thesis statement. Organize your argument from start to finish. Set up your main ideas or paragraphs. Add the main points you want to cover in each paragraph. Introduce each main topic with a couple of introductory sentences. Backup your points with quotes from the text. Analyze how your evidence backs up the main point you're making. Write your introduction. Create your conclusion. Make sure your argument makes sense from beginning to end. Take out phrases like "I think" or "In my opinion. Proofread your essay by reading it out loud. Let someone else proofread it.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Guinea-Pig-Toy

How to Make a Guinea Pig Toy

To make a guinea pig toy, stuff an empty cardboard paper towel roll with timothy hay, and place it in your guinea pig's cage to snack on and play with. You can also try stuffing a sock with timothy hay and tying off the open end. Then, cut a few holes in the sock so the hay pokes out, and watch your guinea pig work to pull the hay out through the different holes. Or, you can cut some holes into a shoebox and give it to your guinea pig to play inside of.

Get a brown cardboard paper towel or toilet paper roll. Don't use the white cardboard rolls because these have been bleached. The untreated brown cardboard rolls are perfectly safe for guinea pigs to munch on. Make sure that any cardboard rolls you use are clean and don't have any kind of glue residue on them. Stuff the tube with timothy hay. Get some timothy hay from a pet shop and fill the cardboard tube with it. Timothy hay is the recommended hay for guinea pigs. You shouldn't stuff the tubes with alfalfa because it is too high in calcium for guinea pigs to consume in large quantities. Use alfalfa in small quantities as a treat for adult guinea pigs. Place the stuffed cardboard rolls in your guinea pig’s cage. Your guinea pigs will munch on these tubes and eat all of the hay inside. This will help them keep their teeth filed down and keep them entertained and happy. You can shove a treat in the middle of the hay inside of the tube to provide an extra incentive for your guinea pigs to reach the middle! Save your old cardboard rolls to make new toys once your guinea pigs finish all the hay and chew up the rolls. Find a clean old sock that you don’t need anymore. Save all those old socks that you can't find the partner to. Put them through the wash first if you aren't sure whether they are clean. Long socks will be easier to tie off after you stuff them. Stuff the sock with hay and tie off the open end. Fill the sock up with timothy hay from the pet store. Tie off the end of the sock around itself, with a piece of fabric, or with a piece of wool or cotton string. You should be able to tie off long socks around themselves. If it is difficult to tie off the sock, you could cut off a strip of fabric from the end of the sock to use to tie it closed. Cut out some holes in different places of the sock. Use scissors or a knife to carefully cut some small slits in a few places on the sock. Pull out a bit of hay through each hole to give your guinea pigs something to pull on. You could stuff a guinea pig treat or two inside the sock as well for them to try to reach. Lay the sock down in your guinea pig's cage. They will enjoy pulling the hay out through the different holes to munch on. They will even drag the sock around and play with it like a ball. You should remove the sock from the cage once they have pulled all of the hay out, or if it looks like it's getting dirty. Get a brown cardboard shoebox with as little printing on it as you can find. Your guinea pig will chew on the box. Brown, unprinted cardboard is the safest cardboard for your guinea pigs to gnaw on. Make sure the boxes don't have any glue or another residue on them. Cut off and remove any parts that do. Cut some holes in the sides and top of the cardboard box. Use scissors or a knife to carefully cut holes big enough for your guinea pig to run in and out of. A hole in the top will allow them to poke their head out and climb up on top of the box. You can even use multiple cardboard shoe boxes or other cardboard boxes to create bigger houses with multiple rooms and levels for your guinea pigs to explore. Put some hay, treats, and chew toys in the shoebox house. Add some timothy hay to the house for the guinea pigs to snack on and hide some treats in the hay for them to find. Add other chew toys, like cardboard rolls stuffed with hay, that they can play with, then introduce your guinea pigs to their new playhouse! Be sure to let your guinea pigs play in the house in an area of your home that it is safe for them to run around in or within a closed playpen. Get a piece of fleece that will fit in your guinea pig’s cage. Buy a few pieces of fleece from a craft supply store, or cut up an old fleece blanket into some rectangular strips. Cut a rectangular piece of fleece approximately 14 in (36 cm) wide by 30 in (76 cm) long. The measurements are just a general guideline and you can modify them to whatever fits in your guinea pigs cage. Cut strips on either side of the rectangular piece of fleece. Cut the strips every 2 in (5.1 cm) on the shorter sides of the fleece. Make them about 12 in (30 cm) long so that there is a connecting piece in the middle that you will drape over the cage. Think of the curtains that you drive through at the car wash. This is what your fleece forest should resemble. Put the fleece piece over the top of the cage with the strips hanging down. Place the middle piece of the fleece somewhere on top of the cage so that the strips you cut dangle down into the cage to create your fleece forest curtain. Your guinea pigs will enjoy running through it and hiding in it. You can make several fleece curtains and hang them in the same part of the cage to create a denser forest for your guinea pigs.

Get a brown cardboard paper towel or toilet paper roll. Stuff the tube with timothy hay. Place the stuffed cardboard rolls in your guinea pig’s cage. Find a clean old sock that you don’t need anymore. Stuff the sock with hay and tie off the open end. Cut out some holes in different places of the sock. Lay the sock down in your guinea pig's cage. Get a brown cardboard shoebox with as little printing on it as you can find. Cut some holes in the sides and top of the cardboard box. Put some hay, treats, and chew toys in the shoebox house. Get a piece of fleece that will fit in your guinea pig’s cage. Cut strips on either side of the rectangular piece of fleece. Put the fleece piece over the top of the cage with the strips hanging down.

https://www.wikihow.life/Polish-Marble

How to Polish Marble

Before polishing marble, clean the surface with a clean, damp rag, then use a poultice to remove any stains, if necessary. Apply a polishing compound using a soft cloth, working in small sections and using circular movements. When you've finished polishing, use a dry cloth to wipe away excess compound and wait 24 hours. When the marble is completely dry, apply a sealant and wait for 10 minutes, then wipe it off with a dry cloth. Let the marble dry again for 8 hours before placing anything on it.

Gather your supplies. You will need a mild detergent, 3-4 soft cloths, a poultice for stain removal (optional), a polishing compound, a low-speed polisher with a felt wheel (optional), and a marble sealant. You can collect the items yourself or purchase a kit. Avoid harsh and acidic cleaners, like vinegar, citrus, or ammonia, since they can damage the sealant on your marble and allow bacteria to leech into it. If you have cultured marble, make sure that your product says it's for cultured marble. If you do not have access to a polisher, you can apply your marble polish with a soft rag; however, this method is very tiring. If you have stains, remove them with a poultice before polishing. Keep in mind that if you use a poultice you will need to wait at least 24 hours to continue to the next step. Use an etch remover polishing compound if you have water rings. Tape the area around the marble. If your marble is surrounded by other surfaces such as wood or chrome that could be damaged by the products you will use, protect them with painter's tape. Cover wood and chrome surfaces. If you have wood floors, consider taping around the edges of the bottom of the cabinet if you will be using a spray product because the product could land on the floor. Clean the surface with a mild detergent and soft rag. Test a small area before you clean the entire slab. If you have stains, try removing them with just your detergent by gently working the area with your damp cloth over the stain. Apply your poultice (optional). A poultice will remove stains that have settled into the porous surface of your marble. Polishing your marble will not remove the stains; instead, you will be sealing them in. You can purchase a commercial poultice or you can make your own. To make a poultice, mix just enough hydrogen peroxide into flour to create a paste. Smooth the poultice onto the stain and seal it by taping plastic wrap over it. Leave your poultice on for at least 24 hours. Old stains may require more time. Determining the time needed to remove old stains is a trial-and-error process. After 24-48 hours, remove the plastic, pour a little water over the dry poultice, and wipe it away with a soft cloth. Thoroughly dry the area. If the stain persists, repeat this process again. Apply a small amount of polishing compound. Consult the side of the container for proper measurements, as different products recommend different amounts. Put the compound on the small section where you will begin work. Do not apply polishing compound to the entire piece of marble at once. How much polish you should apply will depend on the type of polish you choose and the size of the space you are polishing. If you are not sure how much polish to apply, start with a little and add more as needed. It's easier to add more than it is to remove excess. Choose a low-speed polisher or a soft cloth. While you can use either, it takes longer to use a soft cloth, and if you do not keep up the same level of pressure it could affect your results, so a low-speed polisher might be your best bet. If you have a drill, you can replace the drill bit with a felt-top sanding disk so that you can use it as a polisher. Work in small sections. Only work on one small section of 1-2 feet at a time to create an even finish and avoid having your polishing compound dry out or begin to clump up. Working in small sections also helps you evenly distribute the polish because you are able to add small amounts of polish as you go. Start in a corner and work your way around the entire area to make sure you apply an even polish. If you start in the middle, then you may miss a spot. Work in the polish. If you're using a soft cloth, make tight, circular movements. If you're using a polisher, slowly move it in a controlled circular motion. When you finish with the flat sides, polish the corners with a soft rag, continuing your circular movements. Use a low to medium speed if you're using a polisher. Remove the excess polish. Use a dry cloth to wipe away the residue, and then finish with a damp cloth to ensure a clean surface. Allow your marble to fully dry. Wait 24 hours before applying your sealant. If your cultured marble still has stains or shows damage, you can polish it with a buffing compound and then again with a polishing compound. If neither of these products works, cultured marble can be wet sanded using 1,000-grit wet/dry sandpaper. Don't try buffing compound or wet sanding on natural marble because it is more easily damaged. Choose your sealant. Sealants can be topical or impregnator. Topical sealants sit on top of the marble and prevent staining, while impregnators go below the surface and repel water and oils while still allowing the marble to breathe. Countertops and vanities are usually sealed with an impregnator, while floors and other types of marble may be better served by a topical sealant. Don't seal cultured marble because it's stronger and doesn't need a sealant. Some cultured marbles won't take a sealant. You don't need to seal marble in a shower unless you plan to use products that stain. Personal care products don't stain marble unless they're allowed to sit. Shaving cream can cause etching, but that's not prevented by a sealant. Apply your marble sealant. A sealant won't prevent all stains, but will provide some protection to your marble surface. You can purchase marble sealant in a spray bottle at a hardware or home goods store. As you spray on your sealant, make sure that the entire surface of your marble is wet. Don't let the sealant fully dry or it will streak. You can add water to the sealant by spraying on water or dabbing with a damp cloth. Adding water to sealant that is drying too fast will prevent streaking. Wipe off the sealant residue. Consult your container for the application time. After your sealant has been on the marble for the recommended time, use a dry cloth to wipe the surface dry. Most sealants recommend a wait time of 10-20 minutes. If you let it sit longer than the recommended time, the sealant will streak. If your sealant recommends two applications, then repeat the steps once. Wait for your marble to dry. Allow your marble to sit for 6-8 hours. Avoid using or placing anything on your marble until it has completely dried because the seal needs time to set. You don't want to risk getting the sealant that's seeped into the surface wet while it's still fresh. Marble should be sealed every 6-12 months.

Gather your supplies. Tape the area around the marble. Clean the surface with a mild detergent and soft rag. Apply your poultice (optional). Apply a small amount of polishing compound. Choose a low-speed polisher or a soft cloth. Work in small sections. Work in the polish. Remove the excess polish. Allow your marble to fully dry. Choose your sealant. Apply your marble sealant. Wipe off the sealant residue. Wait for your marble to dry.

https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Laughing-After-Every-Comment

How to Stop Laughing After Every Comment

Whether you find yourself laughing when you're feeling anxious, trying to break the tension, daydreaming, or struggling to focus, there are a few simple ways to break this habit. If you feel an inappropriate laugh coming on, close your lips and slowly inhale for 2 to 3 seconds through your nose. Then, exhale slowly through your lips as you purse them together. Continue this process until you feel yourself calm down and the impulse to laugh disappears. Another way to stop laughing is to pinch yourself on your arm or leg, bite your lip, or curl your toes before leaning forward on them. This will help you focus on something other than laughing. If you simply can't compose yourself, walk away for a few minutes, let your laughter out, then reset before rejoining the conversation.

Figure out if you’re anxious, nervous or scared when you laugh. People laugh after other people speak for a variety of reasons, and figuring out why you're laughing will make it easier to stop. Every time that you notice you're laughing a lot, ask yourself, “How do I feel right now?” If you're nervous or afraid, the laughter is probably a subconscious defense mechanism against feelings of anxiety or nervousness. The best way to avoid laughing when you're anxious is to develop coping strategies to make social interactions more comfortable for you. There are plenty of preventive measures and physical tricks that you can use to calm your body. Determine if you’re laughing because you aren’t actively listening. Many people laugh when they daydream, don't know what to say, or find something inappropriate funny. When you find yourself laughing frequently in a conversation, take a moment to self-reflect. If you're comfortable, relaxed, and don't have any issue with the conversation itself, the odds are that you're laughing to fill gaps in the conversation or because you aren't actually engaged in the conversation. If you're laughing because you picture something funny when people talk, don't know what to say, or find yourself daydreaming, work on your listening skills and focus on the conversation to avoid laughing. Practice controlling your laughter in one-on-one conversations. It's a lot harder to be comfortable, focus on listening, and control your impulses in large crowds or social settings. To get a better sense of why you're laughing so frequently, stick with intimate and private conversations whenever you can. As you identify your triggers and determine what the issue is, you can work your way up to controlling your laughter at larger social gatherings. It can be hard to focus on listening when there are a ton of distractions. Sticking with one-on-one conversations will help limit the amount of background noise so you can focus on the interaction. Consult a doctor if you’re laughing uncontrollably for no reason. If you really can't stop yourself from laughing and can't figure out why you're doing it, consult a doctor. You may have something called an involuntary emotional expression disorder (IEED), which can be treated with medication and therapy. Symptoms of IEED include excessive crying, irritability, mood swings, and a lack of restraint. Seeing a psychiatrist and engaging in talk therapy can help you cope with the symptoms of IEED. In extreme cases, doctors may prescribe antidepressants to calm your emotional responses and manage the symptoms of the disorder. Slow your breathing down as soon as you start laughing. If you feel an inappropriate laugh coming on, focus on your breathing. Close your lips and slowly inhale for 2-3 seconds through your nose. Then, exhale slowly through your lips as you purse them together. Continue this process until you're inhaling for 5 seconds and exhaling for 5 seconds. Controlling your breathing will make it difficult to laugh while giving your body something else to focus on. If you don't want people to notice that you're doing this, bend down and act like you're tying your shoe or turn away and act like you're responding to a text message. Pinch yourself to redirect your impulse to break out in laughter. On an inconspicuous section of your arm or leg, pinch your skin right before you feel like you're going to laugh. Pinch hard enough to feel it, but not so hard that you cause yourself extreme pain. This physical sensation will redirect your impulse to laugh, and you'll find it easier to stay quiet. Pinching yourself is a great way to avoid laughing at inappropriate or serious comments that don't merit laughter. Instead of pinching yourself, you can bite your lip or curl your toes before leaning forward on them. Tuck your thumb in your fist and squeeze to distract yourself. If you think you may laugh in the upcoming conversation, take your thumb and tuck it into your palm. Then, wrap your other 4 fingers around your thumb to make a fist. Squeeze firmly to distract your body and stop a laugh from happening. You can do this on either of your hands—it won't make much of a difference. You can also do this on both hands if you prefer. This is a trick used to stop the gagging impulse if you feel like you might throw up. Activating your arm muscles tenses your chest at the same time, making it harder for your body to contract as you laugh or gag. This makes it a great way to prevent anxious laughter. Look away and focus on something else to avoid eye contact. If you find yourself laughing frequently during an interaction, take a few seconds to stare off into the distance behind the speaker. Find a tree, bird, or building to inspect and look at it for 10-15 seconds. Focus on the object that you're looking at instead of the speaker until you feel yourself relaxing and zoning out. Then, reenter the conversation after you've reset your focus and mood. This is a great choice if you're in a social setting where other people are talking in front of you. It won't do much help if you're engaged in a private conversation though, since you'll be expected to respond at some point and have to maintain focus. Fidget with an object to redirect your anxiety elsewhere. When you're in an uncomfortable social setting, play with a pen, coin, or scrap of paper to naturally calm yourself. Twirl the item around in your fingers and rub it repeatedly to keep your senses activated. This will give your body a simple action to focus on while you passively listen to someone else, making it harder to break out in laughter every time that someone stops speaking. This is not necessarily the best choice if you're in a professional setting where you aren't supposed to be fidgeting. You can also tap your fingers on something if you don't have a random item in your pocket. Think of something boring to distract yourself from laughing. Another way to cut back on laughing after every comment is to distract your mind with something boring. You can do this by counting sheep , thinking about household chores, or reciting a random song in your head. Any topic will work so long as it doesn't trigger laughter. This is a great choice if you're in a situation where you are only supposed to be listening, like if you're watching a movie or attending a lecture. Use verbal hums or say “ok” to show people you’re listening. Some people passively laugh or chuckle as a form of nonverbal communication to indicate that they're engaged in the conversation. If you think this is you, start incorporating a different sound or simple, “Ok” after people speak to replace the laughter. A basic, “Mmm” is an easy alternative that won't require any actual speaking while still showing people that you're engaged. Many of the people who do this laugh to show that they're engaged because they're subconsciously nervous about being excluded from a conversation. This tends to be a combination of anxiety and poor listening. Incorporate tricks from both methods if you have an issue with both types of laughter. If you want a nonverbal option, consciously nod a little after someone finishes talking. Pretend that you’re trying to memorize what people say as they talk. Another way to stay engaged and avoid giggling while people speak is to try memorizing what people say. As someone starts to talk, repeat each word that they say in your head. Picture each individual word and pretend that you're trying to memorize it to make a game out of it. The more focused you are on the words, the more likely you are to be engaged without the subconscious need for laughter. This is a great trick if you find yourself daydreaming while people talk. This can also help you avoid laughing at inappropriate or innocuous comments. Mirror the tone and facial expressions of the person you’re talking to. Another way to stay engaged and avoid laughing is to mirror the speaker's behavior. Subtly try to copy the speaker's tone when replying and focus on their facial expressions to make them easy to duplicate. If they smile, smile back. If they scowl, do the same. Mirroring the speaker's behavior will also make it easier to gauge when it's appropriate to laugh. Ask clarifying questions to meaningfully engage in the conversation. You can't laugh after every comment if you have something to say. As someone is speaking, think of a follow-up question or engaging comment that you want to share. Formulate your comment or question in your head, and wait for the other person to stop speaking before sharing it. This will ensure that you remain engaged and don't have time to laugh after someone stops speaking. For example, if someone is talking about their sick dog and they say, “The vet thinks that Fluffy will be okay, but I'm not sure,” ask, “What aren't you sure about?” or say, “Well, I hope Fluffy is okay. He's a good dog.” This way, you're participating instead of observing the conversation. Take a break and leave for a few minutes if you need to relax. If you really feel the laughter building up and you're struggling to focus, walk away. Say that you need to check your phone or write something down and leave the room for 3-5 minutes. Let any laughter out and control your breathing to reset your body before rejoining the conversation.

Figure out if you’re anxious, nervous or scared when you laugh. Determine if you’re laughing because you aren’t actively listening. Practice controlling your laughter in one-on-one conversations. Consult a doctor if you’re laughing uncontrollably for no reason. Slow your breathing down as soon as you start laughing. Pinch yourself to redirect your impulse to break out in laughter. Tuck your thumb in your fist and squeeze to distract yourself. Look away and focus on something else to avoid eye contact. Fidget with an object to redirect your anxiety elsewhere. Think of something boring to distract yourself from laughing. Use verbal hums or say “ok” to show people you’re listening. Pretend that you’re trying to memorize what people say as they talk. Mirror the tone and facial expressions of the person you’re talking to. Ask clarifying questions to meaningfully engage in the conversation. Take a break and leave for a few minutes if you need to relax.

https://www.wikihow.health/Use-a-Tongue-Scraper

How to Use a Tongue Scraper

To use a tongue scraper, first open your mouth as wide as is comfortable and stick out your tongue as far as you can since this will make it easier for you to clean. When you're ready, get the scraper and move it from the back of your tongue to the front in one slow, smooth motion. You should always move your tongue scraper forward, not backward, so you don't spread any debris. While you are scraping, apply firm pressure but not so much that it feels uncomfortable. You can repeat this motion 4 to 8 times to effectively remove any coating or residue on your tongue, but remember to rinse it after each time to get rid of bacteria.

Open your mouth. You'll want to open your mouth as wide as is comfortable, but not so wide that it causes discomfort. This makes your tongue more accessible and increases the ease of scraping. Stick out your tongue. The goal here is to comfortably increase access to your tongue, so stick your tongue outside your mouth as far as you are able. Avoid pointing your tongue, as this decreases surface area and makes scraping less effective. Pick up the scraper. Holding the handle of the tongue scraper, place it on the rearmost part of the tongue. How far to place the scraper is entirely reliant on your comfort. Just remember that the farther back it is placed, the more surface area that is scraped. If you feel a tickle or a gagging sensation, that's too far. After many scraping sessions, you may be able to place the scraper further back into your mouth than you were in your initial session. Begin scraping. Apply firm pressure to the tongue scraper. In one slow, smooth motion, pull the scraper from back of your tongue to the front. The rough edge of the scraper will rub against the tongue surface and remove any coating or residue. Scraping should involved firm pressure, but never discomfort or abrasion to the skin. When you begin scraping, it is best to err on the side of lighter, rather than heavier strokes and gently increase pressure until the right amount is achieved. A maximum number of four to eight movements should be enough for the day. Never move the scraper in a backwards direction. Always remember to move your scraper from the back of your tongue to the tip. Going backwards spreads the scrapings back over your tongue and requires you to repeat the scraping. Rinse the scraper after each stroke. The scraper pushes the coating it removes to the tip of the tongue with every stroke. It may be advisable to rinse the scraper and your mouth after each stroke. You can also dip the scraper in a small cup filled with chlorhexidine mouthwash, as the antibacterial substance will destroy almost entirely any bacteria on the scraper. Clean the scraper after use. Rinse the scraper under the faucet after use, removing any debris or saliva. Ensure that your tongue scraper stays clean and dry between sessions, storing it in a drawer or medicine cabinet. Consider tongue size. If you have a large tongue, a wide profile, u-shaped scraper is the most efficient way to clean your tongue. Children or people with smaller tongues may want to choose a y-shaped scraper. Think about your comfort. If you have a very sensitive gag reflex, consider this when choosing your scraper. Some people opt for a tongue brush, which combines elements of a toothbrush and a scraper. This type of tongue scraper is narrower than the u-shaped scraper but does have a taller profile, which may also trigger discomfort. A good rule of thumb is to consider how comfortable you'd be placing your toothbrush near the back of your mouth. If that's problematic, opt for a y-shaped tongue scraper. These are smaller and usually have bent sides to accommodate sensitivity. Look for efficiency. If sensitivity is less of a concern, get a scraper with multiple blades. Multiple blades expedite the removal of debris. These can be y-shaped, usually with dual blades; however, there are narrower versions with four to five blades that have a similar size-profile to a toothbrush. Consider material. Tongue scrapers are typically made of stainless steel, copper, or plastic. A metal scraper can be kept long-term and periodically disinfected by boiling in water. Plastic scrapers are cheaper; however, they are intended to be disposable and must be replaced every three to four months. Think about tongue scraping as part of your oral hygiene. By itself, tongue scraping cannot ensure good oral hygiene; however, as part of a regimen including brushing and flossing, it has proven benefits. Halitosis is caused by bacteria that act on residual food particles in the mouth. These bacteria release volatile sulphur compounds (VSCs), which produce a bad smell. Tongue scraping can remove food particles and bacteria on the tongue and provide a 75% reduction of halitosis symptoms, 30% more than just brushing alone. Tongue coating is a common symptom of smoking, dry mouth, and yeast infections. It is unsightly and contributes to halitosis. By scraping this coating off the tongue, patients report better overall oral hygiene and personal comfort. Research indicates that, by removing food particles and bacteria from the mouth, tongue scraping can reduce plaque buildup and cavities. Know that tongue scraping can improve taste. Research indicates that tongue cleansing generally exposes tastebuds and, after two weeks, patients noted improved sense of taste. These results were substantially enhanced by including a tongue scraper in cleansing sessions. Consider possible digestive benefits of tongue scraping. The Ayurveda, a holistic medical text that originated in ancient India, argues that the "toxic residue" of bacteria and dead cells that forms on the tongue can actually have a negative impact on the digestive system.

Open your mouth. Stick out your tongue. Pick up the scraper. Begin scraping. Rinse the scraper after each stroke. Clean the scraper after use. Consider tongue size. Think about your comfort. Look for efficiency. Consider material. Think about tongue scraping as part of your oral hygiene. Know that tongue scraping can improve taste. Consider possible digestive benefits of tongue scraping.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Popcorn-on-the-Stove

How to Make Popcorn on the Stove

To make traditional popcorn on the stove, heat peanut, canola, or coconut oil in a pot to around 400 °F. Place 3-4 kernels into the heat, cover the pan, and wait for them to pop. Then, add the rest of the popcorn, cover the pot, and remove it from heat for 30 seconds. Place the pot back on the heat for the kernels to pop all at once, and gently shake the pot back and forth with the lid slightly ajar. Remove the pan from heat when the popping slows to about every 3 seconds, and dump the popcorn into a large bowl. Add butter and seasoning and enjoy!

Heat the oil in a 3-quart (or larger) saucepan on medium-high heat. You'll want to use an oil with a high smoke point, like peanut, canola or coconut. If using coconut oil, allow all of the solid oil to melt before adding kernels. Make sure your pan or pot has a lid that goes with it. The best popping temperature is between 400 and 460 degrees Fahrenheit. Oil burns at 500 degrees. If your oil starts to smoke, it's too hot. You can also add salt to the oil to help season the popcorn from within, instead of adding it on top after the popcorn is fully popped. Put 3 or 4 popcorn kernels into the oil and cover the pan. When the kernels pop, add the rest of popcorn kernels in an even layer. Cover, remove from heat, and count 30 seconds. This method first heats the oil to the right temperature, then waiting 30 seconds brings all of the other kernels to a near-popping temperature so that when they are put back on the heat, they all pop at roughly the same time. Return the pan to the heat. The popcorn should begin popping soon and all at once. Once the popping starts in earnest, gently shake the pan by moving it back and forth over the burner. Try to keep the lid slightly ajar to let the steam from the popcorn release (the popcorn will be drier and crisper this way, rather than chewy). Remove the pan from heat when popping slows to about 3 seconds between pops. Remove the lid, and dump the popcorn immediately into a wide bowl.. With this technique, nearly all of the kernels pop, and nothing burns. Melt butter in the now empty, but hot pan. Drizzle over popcorn and toss to distribute evenly. Note that if you let the butter get just a little bit brown, it will add an even more intense, buttery flavor to the butter and to your popcorn.. Add salt to taste. Sea salt is a great alternative to traditional table salt. You can also add other flavorings and seasonings, like smoked paprika, cayenne powder, chili pepper, curry powder, cumin, grated Parmesan or cheddar cheese, and fresh herbs like rosemary. If you want to make your own sweet and salty popcorn, sprinkle some sugar over the top and mix thoroughly while the popcorn is still hot. Alternatively, you can also add the sugar to the kernels once you've placed them in the oil and they begin to sizzle. Place the oil, popcorn, and salt in a large, 6-quart, metal mixing bowl. Cover with heavy-duty aluminum foil and poke 10 slits in the top with a knife. The slits will let the steam from the popcorn release and help make the popcorn crispier, with just the right crunch. Place the bowl on the stove and turn to medium heat. Shake the bowl constantly, using a pair of tongs to hold the bowl. Continue shaking until the popcorn finishes popping, approximately 3 minutes. Remove the bowl from the heat and carefully remove the foil. Stir in any salt that is on the side of the bowl with a spatula. Slowly drizzle melted butter over the popcorn, while spinning the bowl. Serve immediately. This method is slightly quicker than the traditional method, since you don't test 3 or 4 kernels and then wait the 30 seconds once those have popped. This method also creates fewer dishes, since the bowl you use on the stove to pop the kernels is also the bowl you serve the freshly popped popcorn in. Make sure that the bowl is cool enough to be passed around or placed in someone's lap. If it's still too warm, put a dishtowel underneath it.

Heat the oil in a 3-quart (or larger) saucepan on medium-high heat. Put 3 or 4 popcorn kernels into the oil and cover the pan. Return the pan to the heat. Remove the pan from heat when popping slows to about 3 seconds between pops. Melt butter in the now empty, but hot pan. Add salt to taste. Place the oil, popcorn, and salt in a large, 6-quart, metal mixing bowl. Place the bowl on the stove and turn to medium heat. Remove the bowl from the heat and carefully remove the foil. Slowly drizzle melted butter over the popcorn, while spinning the bowl.

https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Low-Power-FM-Radio-Station

How to Start a Low Power FM Radio Station

To start a low power FM radio station, start by figuring out what type of radio station your community needs. For example, hang flyers around town that say "What do you want to hear on the radio?" to get feedback from your community. Then, search your local FM stations to find one that isn't being used by listening for channels where there aren't other voices or sounds. After that, try appealing to local organizations that might be interested in your programming for funding, or use an online fundraising platform to reach a broader audience.

Understand unlicensed broadcasting. Unlicensed broadcasting is legal using a low powered transmitter which was discussed in Part 15 of the FCC's rules. These devices are limited to 200 feet (61 meter) range. The transmitters are manufactured under the regulation of the FCC and have visible indicators for you to tell. One of the disadvantages of this system is that you have to accept any disturbance from a higher powered radio station. Find an available frequency on the radio. Before you take into account the necessary expenses of a low power FM radio station, you should seek out availability. The FCC allows commercial radio stations to bleed into or overpower your radio station. Search through your local FM stations and find a station without any radio programming. The key is to find the purest static channel. Make sure there aren't other voices or sounds lingering in the background. If there are a couple “clean” stations in a row, then you're in good shape. If you live in a metropolitan city like Chicago or L.A., you will have trouble finding a station like this. You can do a quick check by visiting radiospark.org/rfree for a search of available stations in your area. Find out what type of station your community needs. You are a member of a community and feel the need to power a radio station that your community is lacking. Consider if other members of your community want the same type of programming on the airways. A good way to receive feedback is by creating flyers with information about your radio station. Hang the flyers around town and in community active spots like a coffee shop, library, or a venue space. If the station becomes popular, it is legal to profit from advertisements. Say on the flyer, “What do you want to hear on the radio?” in big bold letters, and then explain what your station does. Make a list of necessary equipment. It'll help you keep track of what you need by making a quick list of all the equipment you'll need to power the station. This includes a transmitter, antenna, and basic sound equipment (microphones, mixer, CD player, etc.). Take a quick inventory of media devices you own like a turntable, CD player, cassette player, etc.). Do a basic search online to determine a rough price of the gear you'll need. Create the mission and vision for your station. Mission statements are meant to be a brief write up of your organization. This is an area where you can share the philosophy model you are basing your radio station around. Other items to include are your goals and your performance standards. These are goals to strive for with a mission statement: to make it memorable, credible, inspirational, and simple. Take a look at some mission statements for nonprofit organizations online. Here's an example from the station AshevilleFM: "At AshevilleFM, we're reflecting and adding to the rich stew of arts, culture and community involvement that is Asheville. We're bringing music, news, and the unusual to the airwaves at 103.3FM here in Asheville while having a global reach through our online stream with over 1.7 million hits a month." Fundraise. Depending on how far you plan to take your station, fundraising in the beginning can benefit your long term goals. Look into some organizations that could be interested in your radio station. Once you find a local organization, draft a letter explaining your fundraising goals and include your mission statement. There are many websites that allow you to make a fundraising pitch online. Gather your source equipment. Your source equipment includes a CD player, cassette player, record player, or other form of media players. You aren't required to have this equipment available, but it will benefit you if you are a music based station. Consider getting used audio equipment from craigslist or other music posting websites. Use a reliable computer. There are many benefits to having a computer for your radio station and studio. You can generate the bulk of your station's broadcast with only a computer playing music, miscellaneous sounds, and even your own voice. Many radio stations record shows on computers and play them at a selected time over the airways. If you are first starting out, a computer will cut down on a lot of your audio costs. You can upload your radio show as a podcast or as an internet radio station with a computer. Get a microphone and audio console. Unless you plan to play music alone, you should invest in at least one microphone, if not two. You will also need an audio mixer to switch between multiple audio outputs like a turntable, microphone, and computer. For a good quality microphones invest in a Sennheiser MD 421 or a Shure SH 55. There are options if you don't want to deal with audio equipment. You can invest in a USB microphone that goes directly into your computer. These mics have been continuing to grow and offer a range in quality. Consider getting help from a tech-savvy friend if you're beginning to feel overwhelmed. Obtain other audio equipment. Asides from the microphones and mixing boards, you'll need cables to attach everything together. Most transmitters take an ⅛” jack (headphone jack), so you'll need to use the right converters for your mixer. Other cables that might help you are XLR cables (for microphones) and RCA cables (for external audio players). If you went with the USB microphone, you don't need to worry about this step. You'll also need one or two sets of headphones depending on how many people plan to talk. For future endeavors, you should have two headphones or more. If you use multiple headphones, you will also need a headphone splitter. Acquire a Part 15 Transmitter. Search through the internet for a professional grade, low powered FM transmitter. There are several options available that are all verified by the FCC. You can spend a small amount of money ($80), or spend a larger sum of around $300. For a cleaner signal, shop for a mono transmitter opposed to a stereo transmitter. Some transmitters come with an antenna, but these models aren't as powerful or reliable. Use a good antenna. Remember a good antenna is a must for clear and long transmission. An antenna that works well on one frequency may not work as well on another. Some audio stores will have antennas for FM transmitters, but you will probably have more luck shopping online. You can also purchase a custom antenna, tuned to your radio frequency. Check out radio brandy for custom antennas: http://www.radiobrandy.com/FMAntenna.html Prepare a few programs. If your station is dedicated to music, prepare music specials. If your station is about science, create some interesting programs related to science. Consider if you want the length of your programs to be 30 minutes or an hour. You could also plan to do a quick 10 minutes of talking every hour of a music show. Plan for a week of broadcasting and choose certain programs for individual days. Consistency is important for programs to develop a following. The key to planning programs is that each show is exciting in some way. When in doubt, throw on a catchy playlist. Plug everything in. Before going live, you should ensure that everything is plugged in and properly connected together. Follow each cable in your system and double check each end to be sure everything is in the proper place. Do a quick test of your broadcast and check the levels on your audio mixer or computer. Tune to the station. Power your transmitter on and tune to the radio frequency, you choose, that isn't occupied by another station. If you haven't found a station yet, go through the FM stations using a normal radio. Take note of the channels that don't have any broadcasting. Begin broadcasting. Have a friend listen to the station in a separate room. You can't have the radio tuned to your broadcasting station in the room with you. When the microphones are turned on, it can create feedback that will be audible over the radio. When the microphone is turned off, you can listen to the radio in the same room. Consider the future. Build your station up to fit your own means, and eventually you can build it into a legitimate station. It is good to begin broadcasting with a Part 15 transmitter to learn all the mechanics of radio and audio. If you develop a fan base, you can contact local businesses for advertising slots. If you're a successful station, you can announce an advertisement opening on a popular time slot. The FCC rarely opens applications for licenses for low powered FM stations. If they do anytime soon, you can take the steps to become licensed and upgrade your transmitter to a more powerful device. Once you begin broadcasting your show, you can also stream your show in a podcast form or even as an internet radio show.

Understand unlicensed broadcasting. Find an available frequency on the radio. Find out what type of station your community needs. Make a list of necessary equipment. Create the mission and vision for your station. Fundraise. Gather your source equipment. Use a reliable computer. Get a microphone and audio console. Obtain other audio equipment. Acquire a Part 15 Transmitter. Use a good antenna. Prepare a few programs. Plug everything in. Tune to the station. Begin broadcasting. Consider the future.

https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Mystery-Story

How to Write a Mystery Story

Before you write your mystery story you'll want to create some characters and outline the plot. You might make your main character a detective or just a curious citizen who witnessed a crime. Once you have characters, choose a setting and a mystery such as a murder or a robbery of a precious artwork. If you want to make your story dramatic, add in cliffhangers and red herrings, or clues that lead to dead ends.

Understand the distinction between the mystery genre and the thriller genre. Mysteries almost always begin with a murder. The major question in a mystery is who committed the crime. Thrillers usually begin with a situation that leads to a major catastrophe, like an assassination, a bank robbery, a nuclear explosion, etc. The major question in a thriller is whether or not the hero can prevent the catastrophe from occurring. In mystery stories, your reader does not know who committed the murder until the end of the novel. Mysteries are centered on the intellectual exercise of trying to figure out the motivations behind the crime, or the puzzle. Mysteries tend to be written in the first person, while thrillers are often written in the third person and from multiple points of view. In mystery stories, there is usually a slower pace as the hero/detective/main character tries to solve the crime. There are also limited action sequences in mysteries than in thrillers. Because mysteries are often slower paced, the characters are usually more in-depth and well rounded in a mystery story than in a thriller. Read examples of mystery stories. There are many great mystery stories that you can read to get a sense of a well-plotted, well-developed mystery. The Woman in White by Wilkie Collins. The 19th-century mystery novel was originally written in serial form, so the story moves forward in measured steps. Much of what became standard in crime fiction was done by Collins in this novel, so it is an engaging and instructive introduction to the genre. The Big Sleep by Raymond Chandler. Chandler is one of the genre's greatest writers, creating engaging stories about the trials and tribulations of private detective Philip Marlowe. Marlowe is a tough, cynical, but honest P.I. who becomes entangled in a plot with a General, his daughter, and a blackmailing photographer. Chandler's work is known for its sharp dialogue, great pacing, and riveting hero, Marlowe. The Adventures of Sherlock Holmes by Sir Arthur Conan Doyle. One of the genre's most famous detectives, along with his equally famous sleuthing partner Watson, solves a series of mysteries and crimes in this collection of stories. Holmes and Watson inject their unique character traits into the stories along the way. "NANCY DREW' by Carolyn Keene. The whole series is situated in the United States.Nancy Drew is a detective. Her close friends Helen Corning, Bess Marvin and George Fayne appear in some mysteries. Nancy is Carson Drew's daughter. Carson Drew is the most famous lawyer in River Heights, where they live. "Hardy Boys by Franklin W. Dixon.This is similar to Nancy Drew.It is about two brothers: Frank and Joe Hardy, who are talented detectives.They are the sons of a very famous detective, and they sometimes help in his cases. A Crime in the Neighborhood by Suzanne Berne. This recent mystery novel is set in 1970s suburban Washington. It centers on the “crime” in the neighborhood, the murder of a young boy. Berne intersperses a coming of age story with the mystery of the death of the young boy in bland, boring suburbia, but manages to make the story anything but bland or boring. Identify the main character in an example story. Think about how the author introduces the main character and how the author describes the main character. For example, in The Big Sleep , Chandler's first-person narrator describes himself through his clothing on the first page: “I was wearing my powder-blue suit, with the dark blue shirt, tie and display handkerchief, black brogues, black wool socks with dark blue clocks on them. I was neat, clean, shaved and sober, and I didn't care who knew it. I was everything the well-dressed private detective ought to be.” With these opening sentences, Chandler makes the narrator distinct through his way of describing himself, his outfit, and his job (private detective). Note the setting or time period of an example story. Think about how the author situates the story in the setting or time period. For example, in the second paragraph of the first page of The Big Sleep , Marlowe places the reader in the time and setting: “The main hallway of the Sternwood place was two stories high.” The reader now knows Marlowe is in front of the home of the Sternwoods and it is a larger home, possibly wealthy. Consider the crime or mystery the main character needs to solve. What is the crime that the main character has to solve or deal with in some way? This could be a murder, a missing person, or a suspicious suicide. In The Big Sleep , Marlowe is hired by General Sternwood to “take care” of a photographer who has been blackmailing the General with scandalous pictures of the General's daughter. Identify the obstacles or problems the main character encounters. A good mystery will keep readers hooked by complicating the main character's mission (to solve the crime) with obstacles or problems. In The Big Sleep , Chandler complicates Marlowe's pursuit of the photographer by having the photographer killed in the early chapters, followed by the suspicious suicide of the General's chauffeur. So Chandler sets up the story with two crimes that Marlowe has to solve. Note the resolution of the mystery. Think about how the mystery is resolved at the end of the story. The solution to the mystery should not feel too obvious or forced, but it also should not seem too out of left field or implausible. The resolution of the mystery should feel surprising to your reader, without confusing them. One of the benefits of a mystery is that you can pace the story so the solution unfolds gradually, rather than in a rushed or hurried manner. Create your detective or sleuth. Your main character can also be a private citizen or innocent bystander to a crime who gets drawn into solving the mystery. Brainstorm specific details of your main character, including: Body size and shape, hair and eye color, and any other physical characteristics. For example, you may have a short female main character with dark hair, glasses, and green eyes. Or you may want a more typical detective character: tall with slicked-back hair and a five o'clock shadow. Clothing and dress. Your character's clothing will not only create a more detailed image for your reader, it can also indicate what time period your story is set in. For example, if your main character wears heavy armor and a helmet with a crest, your reader will realize your story is set in medieval times. If your character wears a hoodie, jeans, and a backpack, this will tip off your readers that the story is likely set in modern times. What makes your main character unique. It's important to create a main character who stands out to your reader and feels engaging enough to sustain many pages in a story or novel. Consider what your character likes and dislikes. Maybe your female sleuth is shy and awkward at parties, and has a secret love of reptiles. Or perhaps your detective is a complete klutz and doesn't consider himself a strong or smart person. Focus on details that will help to create a unique main character and don't be afraid to draw on details from your own life or your own preferences and tastes. Determine the setting. Place the story in a setting you know well, like your hometown or your school. Or do some research on a setting you are unfamiliar with, like 70s California or 40s Britain. If you use a setting you have not experienced first hand, focus on specific settings, like a suburban home in 70s California or a boarding house in 40s Britain. If you decide to set your story in a time period or location you are unfamiliar with, conduct research on the time period or location through your local library, online sources, or interviews with experts in a certain time period or location. Be specific with your research and during your interviews to ensure you get all the details of a setting or time period right. Create the puzzle or mystery. Not all mysteries need to have a murder or major crime. But the bigger the crime, usually the higher the stakes in the story will be. High stakes are important because they engage your reader and give him or her a reason to keep reading. Possible sources for mystery could be: An item is stolen from your main character or someone close to the main character. A person close to the main character disappears. The main character receives threatening or disturbing notes. The main character witnesses a crime. The main character is asked to help solve a crime. The main character stumbles upon a mystery. You can also combine several of these scenarios to create a more layered mystery. For example, an item may be stolen from your main character, a person close to the main character disappears, and then the main character witnesses a crime she is later asked to help solve. Decide how you are going to complicate the puzzle or mystery. Build up tension in the story by making it difficult for your main character to solve the puzzle or mystery. You can use obstacles like other people, or suspects, false leads, misleading clues, or another crime. Create a list of possible suspects your main character may encounter throughout the story. You can use several suspects to point the detective and/or the reader in the wrong direction to build suspense and surprise. Write a list of clues. Red herrings are clues that are false or misleading. Your story will be stronger if you include several red herring clues in the story. For example, your main character may find a clue that points to one suspect, but it is later revealed the clue is actually tied to a different suspect. Or your detective may find a clue without realizing it is the key to unlocking the entire mystery. Use cliffhangers to keep the story entertaining. A cliffhanger is a moment, usually at the end of a scene, where the main character is in a situation that traps them or places them in danger. Cliffhangers are important in a mystery because they keep your reader engaged and propels the story forward. Possible cliffhangers could be: The main character is investigating a possible lead alone and encounters the murderer or killer. The main character begins to doubt his/her abilities and lets his/her guard down, allowing the murderer to kill again. No one believes the main character and he/she ends up trying to solve the crime alone,and he/she ends up getting kidnapped. The main character is injured and trapped in a dangerous place. The main character is going to lose an important clue if he/she can't get out of a certain location or situation. Create a resolution or ending. Wrap up the story with the solution to the puzzle. At the end of most mysteries, the main character has a positive change or shift in his/her perspective. Possible resolutions include: The main character saves someone close to them, or an innocent person wrapped up in the mystery. The main character saves himself/herself and is changed by his/her courage or smarts. The main character exposes a bad character or organization. The main character exposes the murderer or person responsible for the crime. Write a story outline. Now that you have considered all the aspects of your story, create a clear outline of the plot. It's important to map out how exactly the mystery will unfold before you sit down to write the story, as this will ensure there will are no loose ends in the mystery. Your outline should be in the order the events or plot points are going to occur in the story. It should include: Introduction of main character and setting. The inciting incident, or the crime. The call to adventure: The main character gets involved in solving the crime. Tests and trials: The main character finds clues, encounters potential suspects, and tries to stay alive as he/she pursues the truth. Close ones might be kidnapped as a threat Ordeal: The main character thinks he/she has found a key clue or suspect and believes he/she has solved the crime. This is a false resolution, and is a good way to surprise your reader when it turns out the main character got it wrong. Major setback: All seems lost for the main character. He/She found the wrong suspect or clue, someone else is killed or harmed, and all his/her allies have abandoned him/her. A major setback will amp up the tension in the story and keep the reader guessing. The reveal: The main character gathers all interested parties together, lays out the clues, explains the false leads, and reveals who the murderer or guilty person is. Use the five senses to describe the setting. One of the best ways to create a setting or atmosphere is to focus on the five senses: sight, sound, smell, touch, and taste. Descriptions of sensory details can also create backstory for your character. For example, rather than tell the reader your character had cereal for breakfast, you can have the character taste the remnants of cereal on his/her tongue. Or she can smell the cereal she spilled on his/her hands. Think what your main character might see in a certain setting. For example, if your character lives in a home much like yours in a small town, you may describe his/her bedroom or his/her walk to school. If you are using a specific historical setting, like 70s California, you may describe your character standing on a street corner and looking at the unique architecture or the cars that drive by. Consider what your main character might hear in a certain setting. Your sleuth may listen to the birds chirping and the sprinklers on the lawns on the way to school. Or your detective may hear the roaring of cars or the crashing of ocean waves. Describe what your main character might smell in a certain setting. Your main character might wake up to the smell of coffee being made in the kitchen by his/her parents. Or your detective may be hit with the smell of the city: rotting garbage and body odor. Describe what your character might feel. This could be a light breeze, a sharp pain, a sudden jolt, or a shiver down his/her spine. Focus on how your character's body might react to a feeling. Think about what your character might taste. Your main character may still taste the cereal she had for breakfast in his/her mouth, or the drink from the night before. Start the action right away. Skip long paragraphs of description of setting or character, especially in the early pages. You want to hook your reader by starting right in the action, as your main character is moving and thinking. Think about being concise with your language and description. Most readers continue reading a good mystery because they are invested in the main character and want to see his/her succeed. Be brief but specific when describing the main character and his/her perspective on the world. For example, Chandler's The Big Sleep starts by situating the reader in a setting and gives the reader a sense of the main character's perspective on the world. “It was about eleven o'clock in the morning, mid October, with the sun not shining and a look of hard wet rain in the clearness of the foothills. I was wearing my powder-blue suit, with dark blue shirt, tie and display handkerchief, black brogues, black wool socks with dark blue clocks on them. I was neat, clean, shaved and sober, and I didn't care who knew it. I was everything the well-dressed private detective ought to be. I was calling on four million dollars.” With this beginning, the story starts in action, with a specific time, date, and description of the setting. It then presents the main character's physical description and job title. The section ends with the main character's motivation: four million dollars. In three lines, Chandler has covered many of the essential details of the character, the setting, and the story. Show, don’t tell. If you tell your reader, “the detective was cool”, the reader will have to take your word for it. But if you show your reader the detective was cool by describing the clothing she wears and the way she walks into a room, the reader can see how cool the character is. The impact of showing your reader certain details is much more powerful than simply telling the reader what to think. Think about how you would react in a situation if you were angry or scared. Have your character react in ways that communicate angry or scared, without telling the reader about the character's emotions. For example, rather than “Stephanie was angry,” you could write: “Stephanie slammed his/her water glass down on the table so hard his/her dinner plate rattled. She glared at him, and started ripping the thin, white napkin into shreds with his/her fingers.” Showing, rather than telling also works well for descriptions of setting. For example, in The Big Sleep , rather than tell the reader the Sternwoods were wealthy, Chandler describes the luxurious details of the estate: “There were French doors at the back of the hall, beyond them a wide sweep of emerald grass to a white garage, in front of which a slim dark young chauffeur in shiny black leggings was dusting a maroon Packard convertible. Beyond the garage were some decorative trees trimmed as carefully as poodle dogs. Beyond them a large greenhouse with a domed roof. Then more trees and beyond everything the solid, uneven, comfortable line of the foothills.” Surprise your reader but don’t confuse her. When creating a mystery, it's important that the resolution does not feel abrupt or cheap. Try to always play fair and aim to surprise, rather than confuse, your reader. The clues presented in the story should lead to the solution in a logical and clear way, despite any red herrings or false leads. Your reader will enjoy the ending if you make him/her think, “It's so obvious, I should have known!” Revise your first draft. Once you have created a first draft of your mystery story, go through your pages and look for key aspects, including: Plot. Ensure your story sticks to the outline and has a clear beginning, middle, and an ending. You should also confirm your main character shifts or changes at the end of the story. Characters. Are your characters, including your main character, distinct and unique? Do all the characters sound and act the same or are they different from each other? Do your characters feel original and engaging? Pacing. Pacing is how fast or how slow the action moves in the story. Good pacing will feel invisible to the reader. If the story feels like it is moving too fast, make the scenes longer to draw out the emotions of the characters. If it feels like the story gets bogged down or confusing, shorten the scenes to only include essential information. A good rule of thumb is to always end a scene earlier than you might think or want. This will keep the tension from scene to scene from dropping and keep the pace of the story moving. The twist. The twist can either make or break a good mystery story. This is completely optional, but many of the best stories have a twist at the end. Make sure that a twist is not too "cheesy". The more unique a twist is, the easier it is to write. When writing an overused twist, such as "then they woke up", you'll need to be a very good writer to make it sound good. A good twist not only fools the audience, but fools the character(s) too. Consider hinting towards the twist during action scenes, so that when the reader looks back on the story, they'll wonder how they missed it. Try not to make the twist evident too early on.

Understand the distinction between the mystery genre and the thriller genre. Read examples of mystery stories. Identify the main character in an example story. Note the setting or time period of an example story. Consider the crime or mystery the main character needs to solve. Identify the obstacles or problems the main character encounters. Note the resolution of the mystery. Create your detective or sleuth. Determine the setting. Create the puzzle or mystery. Decide how you are going to complicate the puzzle or mystery. Use cliffhangers to keep the story entertaining. Create a resolution or ending. Write a story outline. Use the five senses to describe the setting. Start the action right away. Show, don’t tell. Surprise your reader but don’t confuse her. Revise your first draft.

https://www.wikihow.com/Find-Someone-in-Immigration-Custody

How to Find Someone in Immigration Custody

To find someone in immigration custody, visit the ICE Detainee Locator System website, where you can search for a detainee. Once you're on the site, enter the person's first and last names, and date of birth to begin your search. If you have their A-number, which is usually 9 digits long, you can enter that instead. Once you find out where they are, call the facility to make sure they're still being held there, since the online system is sometimes out of date. If you don't find the detainee in the ICE system, check local jails or prisons in case they're being detained there. Alternatively, contact the local ICE field office, which may be able to advise you where a detainee is if they've only recently been arrested.

Use the ICE Online Detainee Locator System. ICE has a webpage you can use to search detainees in their custody and find out where they are being held. To use the system, go to https://locator.ice.gov/odls/homePage.do. You can search for a detainee using his or her A-Number (the nine-digit Alien Number assigned to the person, usually found on his or her green card or work permit) if you have such a document available. You also must enter the person's home country. If you don't have the detainee's A-Number, you can search by entering his or her first and last name, country, and date of birth. Name and home country are required, and must match ICE's records exactly – meaning you may have to try several alternate spellings of the person's name to find him or her. Entering a date of birth is optional, but can help narrow your search. Keep in mind you can only use this service to find detainees over the age of 18. Call the facility to verify the detainee's presence there. Given the time it can take to update the online system, call and make sure the detainee hasn't been transferred. The system typically is updated within a few hours after a detainee has arrived at a new location, if he or she has been transferred. You can find a list of ICE detention facilities and contact information at https://www.ice.gov/detention-facilities. ICE typically won't transfer detainees if they have immediate family, such as parents or children, who live near the facility. However, it's important to make your presence known as quickly as possible if ICE isn't already aware of family in the area if you want to avoid the risk of transfer. Keep in mind that detainees can be transferred quickly and without warning, or even removed from the country within a matter of days after being detained. Check nearby jails or correctional facilities. If the detainee doesn't show up in the ICE system, he or she may be housed in a local jail rather than an ICE facility. The ICE online system only has records of detainees housed in ICE immigrant detention facilities. If the person has been charged with a crime, he or she typically will be held in a correctional facility rather than an immigration detention center. The federal prison system and most state correctional institutions also have online search capabilities. Do an internet search for "inmate search" with the name of the state or county where the detainee was last seen. Contact the nearest ICE field office. The field office can help you find detainees who have only recently been detained or whose information isn't available in the online system. You can find contact information for all ICE Enforcement and Removal Operations Field Offices online at https://www.ice.gov/contact/ero. When you call the field office, tell the agent who answers the phone that you are seeking information about a detainee. Give the agent the detainee's name. He or she will provide you the information or direct you to someone who can better assist you. Find out the name and location of the detainee's deportation officer. When you call the ICE field office, ask if you can speak to the deportation officer that was assigned the detainee's case. The deportation officer is in charge of the detainee's well-being while he or she is in immigration custody, as well as administering his or her immigration case. If the deportation officer won't take your calls, you may need to work with an immigration officer to open those lines of communication so you can help the detainee with his or her case. Explain who you are. You will need to tell the deportation officer your name and your relationship to the detainee. The deportation officer likely will be more willing to talk to you or give you information about the detainee if you are a close relative. Be careful when speaking to the deportation officer. Remember that anything you say can potentially be used against the detainee in his or her immigration proceedings, so avoid making any statements about the detainee's immigration status or activities he or she is involved in. Ask how you can visit the detainee. The deportation officer can provide you information about how and when you can arrange a visitation. If the detainee requires regular medical care, you should let the deportation officer know so he or she can make arrangements. The deportation officer will let you know how you can visit the detainee, whether you can bring items the detainee might need, and what sorts of items are permitted. Find out what relief options are available for the detainee. Deportation officers have the authority to offer certain forms of release such as voluntary departure. While it's important to know what options are on the table, make sure you evaluate each available form of relief carefully before you make any decisions, and don't commit to a plan of action without discussing the matter with the detainee. Depending on the forms of relief available, you may want to consult an immigration attorney to understand what those options might mean for the detainee's future ability to enter the U.S. or seek permanent residency or citizenship. Determine whether bond has been set. ICE may have set a bond, similar to bail in an ordinary criminal court, that must be paid before the detainee can be released. You can ask the deportation officer about the detainee's bond. If the officer tells you the detainee doesn't have a bond, you need to find out if this is because the detainee isn't eligible for a bond or because the bond hasn't been set. The minimum bond is $1,500, but depending on the circumstances, it may be $20,000 or more. A higher bond indicates ICE believes the detainee to be a substantial flight risk. Bonds also may be higher if the detainee has a criminal record or no significant ties to the area. Just as with bail in criminal court, the bond guarantees the detainee's appearance in court. If the detainee fails to appear, the person who paid the bond forfeits the money. However, you will get your money back provided the detainee shows up for all scheduled hearings. If the detainee has a prior removal order, or has a record of committing certain crimes such as violent felonies, drug offenses, or terrorism-related offenses, the law mandates detention and he or she cannot be released before removal proceedings are completed. Request a bond hearing. If bond has not been set, or if you believe the amount of the bond is excessive, you can file a motion for a bond hearing. Every detainee is entitled to a bond hearing, but you don't have to wait until the detainee's first hearing to have bond determined. You also should consider asking for a bond hearing if you can't afford to pay the bond. A judge may lower the amount, particularly if you are a close relative with strong ties to the area who can vouch for the detainee's appearance at his or her hearings. Often a judge will set bond at the detainee's initial hearing – but you can request an earlier hearing simply to determine the amount of the bond. To request this hearing, you must file a document called "Motion for Bond Redetermination" with the Immigration Court on behalf of the detainee. If you need to file a motion, you definitely should consider hiring an experienced immigration attorney to assist you. If you're concerned about the expense, you can check with the nearest legal aid office or call a nonprofit immigration organization for connections to free or reduced-fee legal assistance. Arrange to pay the bond. The detainee will only be released if the set bond is paid. Keep in mind that you must have legal status in the U.S. to pay a detainee's bond. In other words, you must be a citizen or lawful permanent resident. You must pay the bond at your nearest ICE field office using a cashier's check made out to "Department of Homeland Security." They won't take cash, credit cards, or personal checks. You must bring your Social Security card and a government-issued photo ID with you when you pay the bond. You also must have the detainee's name, date of birth, and A-Number so the bond can be applied to the right person. Because many detention centers will not arrange for the transportation of a detainee upon release, you should make arrangements to pick up the detainee at the detention center when he or she is released.

Use the ICE Online Detainee Locator System. Call the facility to verify the detainee's presence there. Check nearby jails or correctional facilities. Contact the nearest ICE field office. Find out the name and location of the detainee's deportation officer. Explain who you are. Ask how you can visit the detainee. Find out what relief options are available for the detainee. Determine whether bond has been set. Request a bond hearing. Arrange to pay the bond.

https://www.wikihow.com/Avoid-Mononucleosis

How to Avoid Mononucleosis

To avoid mononucleosis, don't share items that might have come into contact with someone else's saliva, like drinks, straws, and food, since that's how mono is usually spread. You should also avoid kissing anyone who has mono, since you could end up catching it from them. Having a weakened immune system can put you at a greater risk of getting mono, so make sure you eat healthy, exercise, and get enough sleep every night so you're as healthy as possible. Additionally, remember to wash your hands regularly throughout the day to kill any germs on them.

Avoid sharing items that come into contact with saliva. Since mono is most commonly spread through saliva, sharing things that commonly come into contact with mouths and saliva is a risky behavior, particularly when someone has beginning symptoms. Avoid things like inhalers, drinks, straws, food, and cigarettes in particular. Anything that touches another person's saliva or mouth and then comes into contact with yours, puts you at risk of contracting the disease. Exercise caution around people with mono. Because EBV is not airborne, family members and roommates of those who have the virus are only at a slightly increased risk of contracting it themselves. However, sharing close quarters with someone infected does increase your chances of contracting the virus, especially while their coughing and sneezing symptoms are acute. This may go without saying, but if your significant other or partner has contracted mono, avoid kissing them or other actions that involve the swapping of saliva. Also, just because they are feeling better, this does not mean they are no longer contagious. They may need follow up tests until you know whether they're actually over the disease, even if they're asymptomatic. If you have had mono before in the past, you won't have to worry as much because most people are able to build an immunity after having it. Stay healthy to lessen chances of contracting mono. Although people of all ages can get mono, it is most common among people ages 15 to 19 years old. If you are in an environment like a college where mono is commonly spread, take extra precautions to stay healthy and keep your immune system strong. Eat a balanced diet, including more foods high in antioxidants. Good sources of antioxidants include green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, blueberries and cherries. Engage in daily aerobic or weight bearing exercise. Get eight hours of sleep each night to avoid being over tired and rundown. Exercise extra caution if you are susceptible to disease. People with compromised immune systems; particularly elderly, young children, or those with immune compromising diseases like HIV are much more susceptible to contracting mono. If you fit any of these criteria, exercise extra caution to avoid contracting mono. Wash hands frequently. Although mono is a virus, and thus cannot be killed by anti-bacterial soap, using good hygiene habits can be effective to lessen germs lingering on your hands and other shared utensils. Cleaning products with bleach can also kill bacteria and viruses on surfaces. Recognize symptoms early. Even if you do your best to avoid mono, you still may catch it. Recognizing symptoms early can help curb how long the illness lingers. Some common symptoms of mono include: fatigue sore throat fever swollen lymph nodes swollen tonsils. Get tested if you suspect you may have contracted mono. If you have symptoms of mono, the only way to find out for sure is to get tested and confirm the presence of the virus in your blood stream. There are two main tests for mono: Mono spot test (heterophile antibody test). This is a test that screens for antibodies that form during certain infections. A blood sample is looked at under a microscope and if heterophile antibodies are in the sample, the blood will clump. This usually indicates mono. EBV antibody test. This too, is a blood test that will show antibodies present against EBV. They can use a variety of methods to look at the specific types of antibodies to determine whether you were infected recently or a while ago. Mono tests may not be accurate in the first days or week of infection. Your body needs time to build up the antibodies to the infection. By two weeks, they are usually accurate. Take precautions if you have mono symptoms. If you get back a test showing you have mono, your doctor may have medications for you to begin taking. Antibiotics are not effective, but in some cases, steroids can be used to help fight tertiary symptoms. But it may also help to take your own precautions. Get plenty of rest, maybe even bed rest if the illness is bad enough. Gargle with salt water or use throat lozenges for a sore throat. Take acetaminophen or ibuprofen to reduce fever and relieve a sore throat and headaches. Avoid contact sports and heavy lifting. Drink plenty of fluids to avoid dehydration.

Avoid sharing items that come into contact with saliva. Exercise caution around people with mono. Stay healthy to lessen chances of contracting mono. Exercise extra caution if you are susceptible to disease. Recognize symptoms early. Get tested if you suspect you may have contracted mono. Take precautions if you have mono symptoms.

https://www.wikihow.com/Check-Your-Air-Conditioner-Before-Calling-for-Service

How to Check Your Air Conditioner Before Calling for Service

To check your air conditioner before calling for service, troubleshoot by noticing if it isn't running at all or if it just isn't blowing cool air. If it isn't working, check to make sure the unit is plugged in and the thermostat is set to cool. If those elements are set, check your circuit breakers and fuses to make sure they are in place and turned on. If your unit isn't blowing cool air, check the fan blower belt for damage or breakage and replace it if need be. Additionally, clean the coils and filters of dust and debris to keep the unit working properly.

Assess the problem. Is the unit simply not working at all, is it not cooling the air much, or is it simply blowing around warm air? It's not working at all: the condenser (for an outdoor unit) or air handler/furnace (indoor unit) are not running. Make sure it's plugged in. This may seem obvious, but there are occasions when this is exactly the problem. Whether kids, dogs, or an accidental tap with the vacuum cleaner, the plug could be partially or completely dislodged. Check the circuit breakers and fuses. Make sure they are in place, turned on, and functioning properly. Circuits, especially with older homes, are easily overloaded if the air conditioner shares a circuit with appliances such as irons, refrigerators, or microwaves. Check your thermostat (cooling control) and make sure it is set to cool at the current temperature, and working properly. As with plugs, sometimes settings can change by accident. Check your fan blower belt for excessive slack, damage, or breakage. This can cause low air flow which allows ice to form, and thus causes low cooling performance. Repair or replace the blower belt. Allow the ice to melt before restarting the AC unit. Check the coils and filter. If they are caked with dust and debris, clean them thoroughly. Make sure you let any ice melt before restarting your unit. Call for service. If you've verified that everything is connected, powered, set up properly, and clean, it may be time to call the service department. Wash your condenser coil once a season, or as needed. Turn off your air conditioner, get a garden hose, and spray the coil using an up-and-down pattern. Be particularly attentive if your condenser is close to a dryer vent, or if your neighborhood is full of cottonwood trees. These two items are "air conditioner killers". Clean or change your filter regularly. This simple step alone can increase the efficiency of your air conditioner. It will also run less, increasing the life span of your equipment. A good sign that your filter needs changing is the fact of ice forming inside your inside cooling unit (evaporator section). This may be difficult to see as the unit is sealed, but touch the outside metal and feel for a noticeable temperature difference. You may also see ice on the large line going to the outside unit (suction line). If ice is forming, it is possible that your air filter is severely dirty and restricting your normal air flow. This allows ice to form due to the fact that not enough heat is being introduced to your cooling section.

Assess the problem. It's not working at all: Check your fan blower belt for excessive slack, damage, or breakage. Check the coils and filter. Call for service. Wash your condenser coil once a season, or as needed. Clean or change your filter regularly.

https://www.wikihow.com/Install-Plastic-Lawn-Edging

How to Install Plastic Lawn Edging

To install plastic lawn edging, start by measuring the perimeter of your garden bed using rope to determine how much edging you'll need. Then, dig a 3-6 inch deep trench around your garden bed that's slightly wider than the width of the edging. Next, place the plastic edging in the trench so the lip on the bottom is pointing toward your garden bed and not the lawn. If you need multiple rolls of edging, use a connector to attach the ends of the rolls. Finally, fill the trench in with soil and install a stake every 5 feet along the edging.

Measure the outline of the garden bed using rope. Lay out a piece of rope around the garden bed where you plan to install the edging. Then, measure the rope with a tape measure to determine how much edging you'll need. You can purchase edging from most gardening centers and home improvement stores. Plastic lawn edging is commonly sold in 20 ft (6.1 m) lengths. The height of plastic lawn edging varies across brands. It typically ranges from 3–6 in (7.6–15.2 cm) high. Generally, 3 in (7.6 cm) edging is inexpensive and widely available, yet short enough for the grass rhizomes to easily grow into the garden bed, while 6 in (15 cm) is more expensive and difficult to find, yet will make garden bed maintenance easier in the long run. Unroll the plastic lawn edging the day before you want to use it. Remove any plastic coverings or packaging. Lay the plastic lawn edging flat on the ground. Dig a 3–6 in (7.6–15.2 cm) deep trench around the garden bed. Use a shovel to dig a neat trench around the whole bed where the plastic edging will go. Dig to the depth of the leading you plan to use. Keep the soil that you have dug up close by, as you'll be using it again soon. The width of the trench must be slightly larger than the width of the edging. Although it depends on the width of your particular edging, approximately 2 in (5.1 cm) is normally sufficient. You can use a rototiller rather than a shovel if you prefer. Make sure you dig the trench deep enough so the plastic edging doesn't stick up out of the ground. If the edging sticks up too much, you could hit it with your lawn mower and cause damage. Cut off any small roots that are in the way of the trench. Use pruning shears to remove any plant roots that are interrupting the 3–6 in (7.6–15.2 cm) deep trench. Leave any large, tree roots that are in the way, however, as it will be easier to cut the edging to accommodate these. Once you have cut away the small roots, remove them from around the trench so that you have a clear space to work. Place the plastic edging into the trench. Push the edging firmly into the trench and against the garden bed. Make sure that the top, decorative edge is just at the surface level of the trench. Cut a notch in the plastic edging if there is a large tree root. Use scissors or a utility knife to cut a gap in the edging if there is a large root. Line it up with the root to check that you have the right spot. Avoid placing edging around garden beds where there are many large tree roots, as you don't want to cut away at the edging too much. Use a connector if the trench is longer than 1 roll of plastic edging. Slide the connector onto the end of each roll, so that the ends meet in the middle. Firmly push the connector down onto each end so that it feels sturdy and attached. With an 8 in (20 cm) long connecter, 4 in (10 cm) from each end of edging will be used. The plastic lawn edging kit will come with connector pieces that you can use to connect 1 roll to another. Fill the soil back into the trench. Use a shovel to place the soil that you previously dug up back into the trench. Fill the soil to the height where only the top ½ or ⅓ of the decorative, circular, edge is visible. Make sure that the soil is tightly packed. The edging will be the right height so that a lawnmower won't get caught on it. Stomp along the curves of the edging with your feet. Flatten the soil to make it compact. This will push the edging outwards along the curve. Install a stake at every 5 feet (1.5 m) along the edging. Place the stake into the soil so that it is right next to the top of the edging, and the pointed tip is going towards the "V" shape at the bottom. Hammer the part of the stake that is above the soil, to make the pointed tip go through the edging. Stakes for plastic lawn edging are either straight or perpendicular in shape. These are installed in the same way. Water the edging to settle the soil. Walk along your newly installed edging with a garden hose. Water the soil on both sides of the edging lightly. You don't need to saturate or flood the soil, as just enough water to make it moderately damp will do. Backfill the edging into any gaps in the soil. Use your hands to push soil into any small gaps that you may have missed between the garden bed and the lawn. Check to see that the edging feels sturdy in all places, and add more soil to any areas that require more support.

Measure the outline of the garden bed using rope. Unroll the plastic lawn edging the day before you want to use it. Dig a 3–6 in (7.6–15.2 cm) deep trench around the garden bed. Cut off any small roots that are in the way of the trench. Place the plastic edging into the trench. Cut a notch in the plastic edging if there is a large tree root. Use a connector if the trench is longer than 1 roll of plastic edging. Fill the soil back into the trench. Stomp along the curves of the edging with your feet. Install a stake at every 5 feet (1.5 m) along the edging. Water the edging to settle the soil. Backfill the edging into any gaps in the soil.

https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Back-Pain-by-Relaxing

How to Stop Back Pain by Relaxing

To try progressive muscle relaxation (PMR), tense 1 muscle, such as your foot, for 5 seconds, then relax and slowly move on to other muscle groups. Start with your feet, then move up through your lower body, torso, chest, and shoulders. For the best experience, find a quiet place to sit and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Once you get the hang of PMR, practice it 3-4 times a week for best effects. If your back pain is not improving, talk to your doctor to try other forms of treatment.

Learn how to tighten different muscle groups. Progressive muscle relaxation works by focusing on tensing and then relaxing various muscle groups. In clinical studies, it's shown to be effective for some in alleviating back pain. Learn the different muscle groups, and how to tense and relax them, before engaging in PMR. To tense and relax your lower body, focus first one foot, then your foot and calf, and then your entire leg. Begin by curling your toes, then pulling your toes towards you to tighten your calf, and then finally squeezing your thigh muscle. Then, you'll focus on your sides, tightening your left and right sides one at a time. Tighten your hand by clenching your fist and then tightening your biceps by bringing your forearm towards your shoulder. You should move then to the buttocks, stomach, chest, neck, and shoulders. You pull your buttocks together to tighten it, you suck your stomach in, and tighten your chest by taking a deep breath. Then, tighten the muscles on your face. Open your mouth wide, clench your eyelids shut tight, and raise your eyebrows as far as they can go. Get ready. Once you've familiarized yourself with how to tighten various muscle groups, prepare to engage in PMR. Find a quiet, comfortable place to sit that's free from outside distractions. Sit with your eyes closed. Remove your shoes and wear loose, comfortable clothing. Tense your muscles. The first thing you do when engaging in PMR is choose one muscle group to focus on. Tense these muscles as discussed earlier. For example, start with your lower body on the left side. Curl your toes toes on your left foot, then your tighten your calf, and then tense your entire left leg. Hold the tension for about 5 seconds. It's important to squeeze hard and really feel the tension building. This may cause some discomfort or shaking. If you start to feel intense, shooting pain stop tensing your muscles and relax. While some discomfort is normal, you could end up hurting yourself if you feel pain and this may worsen back pain. Relax your muscles. Release all the tightness in the tensed muscle group. Notice the difference between tension and relaxation. Exhale and allow the muscles to become loose and limp. Focus on relaxing for 15 seconds before moving on to the next muscle group. Repeat with the other muscle groups. Repeat the process with all other muscle groups. Continue to practice PMR twice a day until you get used to it. After that, you can practice it once a day or even only 3 or 4 times a week. Learn different bodily sensations. Autogenic relaxation has shown to improve symptoms of back pain for some patients. Autogenic relaxation is somewhat similar to PMR in that you pay attention to different sections of the body. In autogenic relaxation, however, you're more focused on different bodily sensation than tensing or relaxing different muscle groups. Learn about the different sensations you should focus on before attempting autogenic relaxation. Heaviness - Does your body feel weighted down in certain areas? Light in others? Warmth - Are certain areas of your body warmer or colder than others? Heartbeat - Pay attention to the beating of your heart. Try to stay in tune to the rhythm. Breathing - Allow yourself to breath naturally and take stock of your normal rate of inhaling and exhaling. Prepare. To prepare for Autogenic training, find an area of your house with few outside distractions. Choose a comfortable place to sit or lie down. Wear loose-fitting clothing. Choose a position. There are three different positions you can use to practice autogenic relaxation. Select one of the following: Choose an arm chair that supports your arms and hands. Tilt your head back. Sit in a stool with your body slumped forward slightly. Rest your arms on your thighs and place your hands between your knees. Lie down with your legs eight inches apart, toes pointed forward, and your arms resting on your sides without touching your body. Focus on different sensations in your body. Once you're chosen a position, autogenic relaxation takes about 8 minutes. Move from one section of the body to the next. Many people find it easiest to move from their head to the feet or vice versa. Focus on the sensations in various body points. Do you feel warm, cold, heavy, relaxed? Focus on your heartbeat and breathing as you move through your chest. Pay attention to the cooling and warming sensations of your head and abdomen. Once you're finished, take a few slow, deep relaxing breaths. Try diaphragm breathing. Diaphragm breathing has been helpful for some when it comes to easing back pain. It's fairly easy to do and could be a simple way to reduce your pain. You can engage in diaphragm breathing either sitting or lying down. Place one hand on your chest and another on your lower belly. To inhale, breathe through your nose. Channel air in such a way that it moves into your stomach. The hand on your belly should rise. Hold for about 3 seconds. Exhale through your mouth. Breathe out until the hand on your stomach is back in its original position. Repeat for 10 to 15 breaths. Visualize. Visualization is a relaxation technique that may help alleviate back pain for some. You use your imagination to focus on picturing a calm, relaxing scene. Try to use as many sensations as possible. What does this scene look like, smell like, feel like? What kind of sounds are present? You can engage in relaxation during back pain flare ups throughout the day and before bed at night. It can help to close your eyes and strive to really put yourself in a specific scene or moment. Try as best you can to experience the sensation of existing in a relaxing setting. Journal about what you're going through. Try spending at least 5-10 minutes a day writing about how you're feeling. Expressive writing can help reduce both emotional and physical symptoms of pain. It's also a great way to track the progress of your condition. For instance, when you're feeling tense or tight, you might write about the things that make you feel upset, angry, scared, or excited. That can help you release some of the tension you might be holding in your mind as well as your body. Seek distractions. Sometimes, a simple distraction can help you disengage from back pain. Find something relaxing you enjoy and distract yourself with it when experiencing back pain. Listen to music. Watch a movie. Take a warm bath. Do a crossword puzzle. Any activity that is personally enjoyable for you can help alleviate your back pain by distracting you from the sensation. Try soaking in a warm bath or hot tub to help relieve muscle spasms in your back. Sometimes, people have back pain due to stress. To help alleviate your stress, try writing about your feelings for about 10-15 minutes every day. That can help you process your emotions, which may help you feel like you can handle them more easily. Stretch for relaxation. There are a variety of stretches you can do that will alleviate your back pain by relaxing your muscles. These can be particularly helpful for lower back pain. Try the pelvic tilt. Lie on your back with your knees bent and the small of your back touching the floor. Tighten your abdominal muscles so your back is flat against the floor, hold for five seconds, and then release. Repeat 3 times. Gradually build up to 10 repetitions. Engage in a knees-to-chest exercise. Lie on your back with your legs bent straight. Bring one knee to your chest and hold for 5 seconds. Repeat 5 times and then repeat with the other leg. To do a back stretch, lie on your stomach. Push your upper body off the floor with your arms. Hold for 5 seconds and then repeat 10 times. Take a Yoga or Pilates class. Yoga and Pilates both promote relaxation and might also help loosen and relax tense muscles that cause back pain. Look into yoga or Pilates classes in your area. You can also find guided yoga and Pilates routines online or purchase a DVD. Make an appointment with a doctor. If your back pain is not responding to relaxation techniques, consult a doctor. Your doctor will perform a routine physical exam to try and figure out what's causing your back pain. Depending on your medical history and current health, the doctor may run some blood tests or order x-rays, CAT scans, or MRIs. He or she will then come up with a treatment plan for your based on the underlying causes of your back pain. In some cases, it may help to see a therapist as well as your primary care provider. That way, you can explore some of the emotional pressures and stresses you're under that might be manifesting as pain. Get a massage. Massages can help you relax, which might lead to a reduction in back pain. Look for a well reviewed masseuse in your area and make an appointment. Let the masseuse know where your back pain is located. It might be a good idea to talk to your doctor before making an appointment with a masseuse to make sure this is okay for you given your current health. Try acupuncture. Acupuncture is a form of alternative medicine in which needles are placed into specific points of the body to relieve tension. While scientific studies of the effectiveness of acupuncture are conflicted, many people find it provides relief for back pain. It is widely considered a safe medical treatment. Ask your regular physician for a referral to an acupuncturist in your area and see if the treatment works for you.

Learn how to tighten different muscle groups. Get ready. Tense your muscles. Relax your muscles. Repeat with the other muscle groups. Learn different bodily sensations. Prepare. Choose a position. Focus on different sensations in your body. Try diaphragm breathing. Visualize. Journal about what you're going through. Seek distractions. Stretch for relaxation. Take a Yoga or Pilates class. Make an appointment with a doctor. Get a massage. Try acupuncture.

https://www.wikihow.com/Determine-Directions-to-North,-South,-East,-and-West

How to Determine Directions to North, South, East, and West

To determine directions to North, South, East, and West, use the compass app or the GPS on your phone to see which direction you are facing. If you don't have your phone with you or want to use primitive methods, plant a stick upright into the ground. Then, place a rock where the stick's shadow ends to mark the spot. Wait 15 minutes and place another rock where the shadow is now. Connect the 2 rocks with a stick and this line will go from East to West, with the first rock being West.

Collect your tools. Since the sun rises in the east and sets in the west, the shadows it casts will always move in the opposite direction, and you can observe their motions to determine directions. For this method, you will need: A straight stick that's between two and five feet long A straight stick that's about one foot long Two rocks, stones, or other objects (heavy enough that wind won't blow them around). Plant your stick upright in the ground. Place one of the rocks on the ground to mark the tip of the stick's shadow. Wait 15 to 20 minutes. The shadow will have moved. Take the second rock and mark the new location of the tip of the stick's shadow. If you can wait longer, do so, and place more rocks to mark the changing shadow. Connect the dots. Either draw a straight line on the ground between the two marks or use the other stick to connect the dots and make a straight line. The shadow moves in the opposite direction of the sun, so this line denotes the east–west line: the first dot represents west and the second dot represents east. Note that this method is only approximate, and can be off by 23 degrees or so at the equator on the first day of winter or summer. The variance will be more the farther you get from the equator. For instance, the sun will rise about 33 degrees north of east on the first day of summer at 42 degrees latitude in the northern hemisphere and 33 degrees south of east on the first day of winter. It rises due east on the first day of spring and fall all over the world. Assemble your tools. This method is similar to the stick method, but it's more reliable partly because it uses a longer observation time, but mostly because it uses equal times before and after local noon. Locate flat ground and collect your tools: A stick or pole that's two to five feet long One small sharp stick Two small rocks Something like a long string Put the long pole in the ground. This must be done before noon. Wherever the shadow of the pole ends, place a rock. Attach the string to the stick and pole. Tie the sharp stick to one end of the string, and the other end of the string to the pole, making sure it's just long enough to reach the rock on the ground. With this method it is important that the top of the stick, the part that casts the shadow, is directly over the part of the stick that is in the ground. Draw a circle around the pole. With the rock as your starting point, use the sharp stick that's attached to the pole to draw the circle in the ground around the pole. Wait. When the shadow from the pole finally touches this circle again, mark the point where it connected with the other rock. Connect the dots. The straight line that connects the first rock with the second rock is the true east–west line, where the first rock represents west and the second rock represents east. To find north and south from this point, north will be ninety degrees clockwise from west, and south will be ninety degrees clockwise from east. Look for the sun at noon. At noon, the sun can point you in the general direction of north and south, and consequently east and west, but it will not tell you due north or due south. In the Northern Hemisphere, walking directly toward the sun at noon will lead you south, while walking directly away from the sun will lead you north. In the Southern Hemisphere, the opposite is true: toward the sun will lead you north, and away from the sun will lead you south. Use sunrise and sunset for approximate directions. The sun rises in the general direction of east and sets in the general direction of west every day, so you can use the location of sunrise or sunset to get an approximate idea of direction. Face the sunrise and you are facing east; north will be on your left and south will be on your right. Face the sunset and you are facing west; north will be on your right and south will be on your left. The location of sunrise and sunset only provide an approximate idea of direction 363 days of the year, because the sun rises due east and sets due west only on the vernal and autumnal equinoxes (the first day of spring and fall). Look at how vegetation is growing. While using vegetation to determine direction isn't an exact science or a precise method, oftentimes it can give you a basic idea of which direction's which. Living north of the equator, the sun is usually in the southern part of the sky, and the opposite is true south of the equator. This means that leaves and foliage will tend to be thicker and denser on the southern side of a tree or bush. The opposite is true in the Southern Hemisphere, where vegetation will be more lush on the northern side. Many guidebooks will note that moss only grows on the north side of a tree in the Northern Hemisphere, but this is not true. However, while moss can grow on all sides of a tree, it is true that it will often be denser on the side that is shadier (the north in the Northern Hemisphere and the south in the Southern Hemisphere). Calculate direction with an analogue watch and the sun. The sun can be used in conjunction with a non-digital wristwatch to provide an approximate idea of the cardinal directions if you find yourself lost in the woods but at least have a wristwatch. In the Northern Hemisphere, point the hour hand on your watch at the sun. South will be halfway between 12 o'clock and the hour hand. In the Southern Hemisphere, align 12 o'clock on the watch with the sun, and the midway point between that and the hour hand will point north. When you are facing north, east is on your right and west is on your left. When you are facing south, east is on your left and west is on your right. During daylight saving time, use one o'clock instead of 12 o'clock on the watch. For this method to work, your watch must be set for the correct time. It can also have a margin of error of about 35 degrees, so this method is only reliable for an approximate idea of direction. Recognize Polaris. Polaris, also called the North Star, can be used in the Northern Hemisphere to help you find north. This is one of the quickest ways to determine your directions at night if you don't have a compass or GPS. Polaris, or the North Star, is not one of the brightest stars in the night sky (it clocks in at 48th brightest). It is, however, the brightest star between the Big Dipper and Cassiopeia. Because it's located in the sky around the North Pole, it doesn't move around much, meaning it's useful and accurate for navigating. Locate Polaris. Find the Big Dipper (also known as the Plough) and the Little Dipper (aka Ursa Minor). Think of the Big Dipper like a ladle (hence the name), where the handle holds a cup, and the outer edge of the cup (the farthest from the handle) points out into the sky and toward Polaris. For confirmation, Polaris is the last star that makes up the handle of the Little Dipper. Draw an imaginary line from Polaris to the ground. This is approximately true north. When you face Polaris, you are facing due north; behind you is due south, and due west will be on your left, while due east will be on your right. Recognize the Southern Cross. In the Southern Hemisphere, the constellation of the Southern Cross (aka Crux) can be used to guide you in a southerly direction. Five stars make this constellation, and its four brightest form an angled cross. Use the Southern Cross to find south. Find the two stars that make up the lengthwise portion of the cross and imagine a line that extends out four and a half times greater than the full length of the cross. When you reach the terminus of that imaginary line, draw another imaginary line that extends to the ground. This is, in general, the direction of south. When the cross is lying horizontal, the "four and a half times" mark will be less than one degree from true south. When the cross is vertical or upside down, the mark will be about two and a half degrees (about a thumb's width) from true south. Choose a guiding landmark. Once you've determined the general direction in which south lies, it might be helpful to find a landmark at that location on the ground so that you don't lose where south lies. Gather your tools and equipment. A compass is a round instrument with all the cardinal directions printed on it. A rotating needle uses the Earth's magnetic field to determine what direction the compass is facing. You can make your own rudimentary compass if you have a few items available. You will need: A metal sewing needle and magnet A bowl or cup filled with water Pliers and scissors A cork (or just a leaf). Rub the needle against the magnet. Do this at least 12 times if you are using a weak magnet like a refrigerator magnet, or about five times if you have a stronger magnet. This will magnetize the needle. Cut a one-quarter-inch disk of cork. Then, use the pliers to push the needle through the cork disk. (If you don't have a cork, you can place the needle on a leaf.) Place the cork disk in the center of the bowl of water. The needle will be free to spin around like a compass needle, and will eventually align itself with the poles. Wait for the needle to stop spinning. If it was properly magnetized, it should tell you the north–south line. Note that unless you have a compass or other reference, you will not know if the needle is pointing north or south, just that it's pointing to one or the other. Many websites and books say that you can magnetize a metal needle by rubbing it with wool or silk, but that will only create static electricity, not magnetism. Find your direction with a compass. Day or night, using a compass, GPS, or cell phone equipped with either is the best and easiest way to determine directions. These devices are also the most accurate, making them the most reliable methods. But, it's important to note that when your compass points north, for instance, it's pointing you in the direction of magnetic north, which is different from true north (the same goes for magnetic south versus true south). As you spin around in different directions, the compass needle will spin as well, indicating which direction you are facing. A compass will give false readings around metal objects like keys, watches, and belt buckles. The same is true for magnetic objects, such as certain rocks or power lines. Use a global positioning system. A GPS is arguably the easiest way to determine direction or find your way, because these electronic devices use satellites to position your location. A GPS can be used to tell you where you are, give you directions to a specific location, and track your movements. A GPS must be charged and have a working battery to be functional. It should also be initialized before use, so that it orients itself (knows where it is) and downloads the most current and accurate maps. Turn on your GPS, and allow it to load and acquire signal. Not only will the GPS have a compass you can use to determine which way is east, west, north, or south, but on its map it will also have an arrow that points in the direction you are facing. Your coordinates will appear at the top of the screen, also giving you your longitude and latitude. Because a GPS navigates using satellites, tall buildings, large trees, and other geographic structures can interfere with its signal. Turn your cell phone into a navigation device. Most modern smartphones are equipped with a compass, GPS, or both. There are also applications you can download or software you can install to equip your phone with these features. To use the GPS function on your phone, it must be connected to Wi-Fi or your network, and your GPS or location services must be on. To access these devices, look for apps called “compass,” “maps,” or “navigation.”

Collect your tools. Plant your stick upright in the ground. Wait 15 to 20 minutes. Connect the dots. Assemble your tools. Put the long pole in the ground. Attach the string to the stick and pole. Draw a circle around the pole. Wait. Connect the dots. Look for the sun at noon. Use sunrise and sunset for approximate directions. Look at how vegetation is growing. Calculate direction with an analogue watch and the sun. Recognize Polaris. Locate Polaris. Draw an imaginary line from Polaris to the ground. Recognize the Southern Cross. Use the Southern Cross to find south. Choose a guiding landmark. Gather your tools and equipment. Rub the needle against the magnet. Cut a one-quarter-inch disk of cork. Place the cork disk in the center of the bowl of water. Wait for the needle to stop spinning. Find your direction with a compass. Use a global positioning system. Turn your cell phone into a navigation device.

https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-French-Braid

How to Start a French Braid

To start a French braid, first, separate a large chunk of hair from the top of your head into 3 even sections. Start a normal braid by crossing the right strand over the middle, then the left strand over the new middle. Pull the braid tight and hold it in one hand. At this point, gather a section of loose hair from near your right ear and join it to the right strand in the braid. Pass the right strand over the middle like normal. Then, add more hair from your left side to the left strand of the braid and passing it over the middle. Repeat the process, alternating between the right and left half of your hair, until you've braided all of your hair.

Get away from the mirror. To start the look, find a space away from mirrors. Mirrors seem like they would be helpful to the process, as they allow you to see what you're doing. However, mirrors can actually provide more confusion. You will be watching mirror images of your hands, which can cause you to reach for the wrong strands of hair. It's easier to braid your hair without relying on a mirror for guidance. Comb your hair backwards. To start, comb out your hair gently to remove any tangles. Once your hair is smoothed and combed through, comb all your hair backwards and away from your forehead. If you have very long hair, drape it over your shoulder so you start with your hair all on 1 side. You could also use clips to hold the hair you aren't braiding out of the way. Separate a chunk of hair into 3 sections. Reach to the crown of your head. Pull out a large chunk of hair. Separate this chunk into 3 sections of roughly even size. Hold the strands in place between your 2 hands. The larger the chunks are, the larger the braid will be. One strand should fall entirely in the right hand, another should fall entirely in the left hand, and the strand between them should be held by both your right and left hand. Cross the right-most strand over the middle strand. You start a French braid by braiding the first 3 sections you separated. Take the strand you're holding in your right hand. Cross this over the middle strand. The right strand is now your new middle strand. The middle strand is now the right strand. Cross the left-most strand over the middle strand. Take the strand you're holding in your left hand. Cross this strand over the middle strand. Be sure to cross your left strand over the middle strand that was once the right strand. Do not cross the left strand over the former middle strand. Pull the braid tight to secure. Pull on your strands to bring your braid together. This should tighten the knot-like structure you just created. This will help keep your braid in place as you continue to French braid. If you're new to French braiding, the braid might be loose or a little messy. Don't worry, though! You'll be able to create tight, neat braids with a little bit of practice. Transfer the braided hair to your left hand. Use your fingers to keep your hair separated into 3 different strands. Carefully transfer all 3 strands to your left hand. Make sure to keep them separate using your fingers even while holding them with 1 hand. Gather a section from the right side of your head. Use your free right hand to gather a section of loose hair near your right ear. You are going to be incorporating new strands into your braid. This section should be the same size as the sections you're holding in your left hand. Add the new right strand to the current right strand. Use your right hand to pass the strand you just made into the current right strand. Push the sections together to make a bigger, thicker right strand. Cross the right strand over the middle strand. Use your right hand. Take the new right strand and pass it over the middle strand. Pull the braid slightly to tighten it up. Transfer your hair to your right hand. Take all your hair and transfer it to your right hand. Use your fingers to keep the sections separated into three distinct strands. Repeat the process on the left. On the left side, you will repeat this same process again. Make a new strand on the left side of your head. Incorporate it into your existing left strand. Pass this new left strand over the middle strand. Then, transfer your hair to your right hand. This is the start of a French braid. Continue this pattern until you reach the end of your hair.

Get away from the mirror. Comb your hair backwards. Separate a chunk of hair into 3 sections. Cross the right-most strand over the middle strand. Cross the left-most strand over the middle strand. Pull the braid tight to secure. Transfer the braided hair to your left hand. Gather a section from the right side of your head. Add the new right strand to the current right strand. Cross the right strand over the middle strand. Transfer your hair to your right hand. Repeat the process on the left.

https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Vertical-Leg-Crunches

How to Do Vertical Leg Crunches

To do vertical leg crunches, start by lying flat on your back, folding your hands, and putting your hands behind the base of your head. Then, cross your legs at your ankles and lift your legs up in the air so that they're almost completely straight and perpendicular to the floor. Next, contract your core and lift your shoulders off of the ground. Hold the position for 2 seconds and slowly return to the starting position, keeping your abs engaged. Be sure to keep your legs elevated in the starting position after you've lowered your shoulders to the ground. Repeat the same movements, aiming for 12 to 16 repetitions per set.

Lie flat on your back on the ground. Start the exercise by lying down, extending your legs, and pointing your toes upward to form a straight line with your body. Relax your shoulders and neck and find a comfortable position. Use a yoga mat, a towel, or work on a carpeted or padded floor to make the exercise more comfortable. Fold your hands and place them behind your neck. Interlace or stack your fingers and place them behind your neck to help support your head during the exercise. Your hands should rest comfortably behind your neck and shouldn't pull on your head. Don't round your neck and spine. If you have shoulder flexibility or mobility issues, you can place your fingertips on the sides of your head. Raise both of your legs so they’re perpendicular to the ground. Keep your legs together and extend them so they're straight. You can bend your knees slightly if your flexibility doesn't allow you to keep them straight, but work to straighten your legs out over time. Try doing yoga to stretch your hamstrings to improve the flexibility of your legs. You can cross your ankles if it makes it more comfortable for you. Contract your core to prepare for the movement. Once you're in a good position with your legs elevated, take a breath and brace your core for the movement by contracting and keeping it tight. Keep your back fully connected to the ground. There should not be any space between your lower back and the ground. Curl your upper body to lift your shoulders off of the ground. Engage your abdominal muscles to raise your upper body off of the ground, stretching toward your feet. Imagine lifting your chest to the sky so you don't round your shoulders and spine. Exhale as you contract your abdominal muscles and raise your shoulders. Hold the position for 2 seconds. Stop moving upwards when you feel your shoulders start to hunch forward, and hold the crunch for 2 seconds to fully engage your core. Keep your elevated and be careful not to pull on your neck or extend your chin to avoid straining your neck. Keep your legs straight and pointed upward and keep them from moving while you hold the crunch. Lower your upper body slowly. After 2 seconds, slowly return back down to the starting position with control, keeping your abdominal muscles contracted. Imagine lowering back down one vertebra at a time in a smooth and fluid motion. Try to keep your legs from moving or swaying while you lower your shoulders back to the ground. Do not slam on the ground or fall backward or you could injure yourself. Keep your legs elevated in the starting position after you've lowered back down to the grown. Repeat the movement for 12 to 16 repetitions. To get a good abdominal workout using vertical leg crunches, you need to do at least 12 reps. Remember to exhale as you crunch and take a breath when you return to the starting position. It's okay to take a break and lower your legs before finishing up your reps. Do 3 sets of 15 repetitions. To really challenge yourself with a difficult routine, do 3 sets of 15 vertical leg crunches, with a brief pause in between sets to keep your muscles working. The shorter the rest period in between sets, the more difficult of a challenge the workout is for your core. Add other abdominal exercises to this routine to make the workout even more intense. Use good technique throughout the whole workout; don't let your form break down as you get tired. Take a rest if you need to, then return to the movement using good technique. Extend your arms to increase the difficulty. Instead of supporting your head with your hands, extend your arms and reach toward your toes when you perform the crunch. Reach as far as you can and hold at the top of the movement for 2 seconds before you slowly lower back down to the ground. Reach as far as you can without rounding your shoulders and upper back. Hold a weight on your chest or behind your head. To really ramp up the difficulty of the vertical leg crunch, hold a rounded weight plate against your chest or behind your head when you perform the movement. Use good form and hold at the top of the movement for 2 seconds before you lower back down with control.

Lie flat on your back on the ground. Fold your hands and place them behind your neck. Raise both of your legs so they’re perpendicular to the ground. Contract your core to prepare for the movement. Curl your upper body to lift your shoulders off of the ground. Hold the position for 2 seconds. Lower your upper body slowly. Repeat the movement for 12 to 16 repetitions. Do 3 sets of 15 repetitions. Extend your arms to increase the difficulty. Hold a weight on your chest or behind your head.

https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Roses

How to Grow Roses

To grow roses, start by buying a bare root or potted rose from a nursery. Then, soak your root in water or water your potted rose thoroughly before you plant it. Next, dig an 18-inch by 18-inch hole in a spot that gets at least 6 hours of sunlight a day, and add compost or fertilizer before you plant your rose. Finally, fill the hole with soil, water your rose, and add mulch to your rose bed. Water your rose frequently enough to keep the soil damp, and fertilize it from early spring through late summer. Remember to prune your rose to keep it healthy and beautiful.

. Choose rose varieties Did you know there are 13,000 varieties of roses? Some roses grow better in certain regions than in others. When you're choosing what type of rose to grow, take some time to research the specifics of your growing region, then look for roses that have characteristics you find appealing. Take their shape, size, and color into account when choosing varieties to grow. Roses fall into the following categories: Hybrid tea roses are beautifully shaped, colorful roses that often make appearances in flower shops and as part of bouquets. Floribunda roses are the most colorful of all the varieties. Each bush has many blossoms, rather than just one to a stem. Grandiflora roses are a cross between the hybrid tea and Floribunda roses, and they grow to be quite tall with several rose clusters to a stem. Climber roses can be trained to stretch vine-like along fences and walls. Miniature roses are intricate and tiny, perfect for planting in a container. Shrub and landscape roses are quite hardy, resistant to pests and disease. They come in many colors, shapes and sizes. Tree roses are roses that have been grafted to a long stem, giving them the appearance of trees. They require a bit more care than some of the other types of roses. Buy bare root or potted roses. Once you've picked out the types of roses you want to plant, decide in what form you want to buy them. Bare roots are the roots of roses that are planted directly into the ground. You can also buy young roses that have already been planted in a small pot, and transplant them to the ground or another pot. Either type may be purchased in a nursery. Rare rose varieties may be found online. Bare root roses are planted in early spring, giving them time to take root before sprouting several weeks later when the weather warms up. Potted roses can be kept inside during the winter, then placed outside in the spring. Get rose gardening supplies. Aside from the bare root or potted plant itself, you'll need a few other supplies to get your rose garden started. Go to your local nursery or check out online retailers to pick up the following: Pruning shears. Pruning roses keeps them healthy, promotes the growth of blooms, and keeps them in a pretty shape. Shears are essential equipment for growing roses. Get small curved-edge shears and larger lopping shears. Gardening gloves. Protect yourself from thorns with a thick pair of gloves. Fertilizer. Roses should be fed with fertilizer a few times a season. You can buy fertilizer specifically formulated for roses, but this is not strictly necessary. Mulch. Mulching rose beds can help keep pests away and distribute more nutrients to the roses. Get wood chips, pine needles, peat nuggets, or another type of mulch suitable for your area. Compost or rose planting mix. Mixing this with the soil when you plant the roses helps them grow. A shovel and spade. You'll need these to dig holes when you plant the roses. Decide on a planting spot. You'll need a spot that gets at least 6 hours of good sunlight a day. Choose a spot that's not crowded with the roots or branches of other plants and trees. The soil should be loose and have good drainage; if yours has a lot of clay, loosen it and add some gypsum pellets before planting. Roses do best when the soil has a pH of 6.3-6.8. To determine whether a site has good drainage, walk around it after a good soaking rain. If the soil is damp, but not waterlogged, it should be fine. If you see puddles or large mud spots, you'll need to find another site or work on this one to make it more conducive to growing roses. Water the roses to prepare them for planting. If you're planting bare roots, soak them in a bucket of water for a few hours before planting. If you're planting a rose you bought in a pot, water it thoroughly before you prepare the planting bed. Prepare a large hole. You'll need one for each rose bush you're planting. Use a garden spade or shovel to dig a hole 18 inches (45.7 cm) wide and 18 inches (45.7 cm) deep. The measurements don't have to be exact, but a hole this wide and deep will be suitable for most roses. Mix the soil you removed from the hole with compost, and use some of it to form a small mound in the base of the hole. Add some bonemeal or rose fertilizer. If you're planting more than one bush, allow several feet of space in between, so the roots have room to grow and stretch. Plant the roses. Place the bare root or potted rose on top of the mound. Use a shovel to fill the hole back up with soil. The rose's bud union should be located about 2 inches (5.1 cm) below the surface of the ground. If you live in a colder region, you may need to plant your roses deeper to protect them from low temperatures. If you're planting a potted rose, loosen the soil around its roots to expose them before planting it in the hole. Make sure the soil is firm around the roots; press down with your hands to remove any air pockets. Water the roses. Thoroughly watering the area where you planted the rose helps compact the soil against the roots, stabilizing the plant. Make sure it gets a good soaking right after you're finished planting. Add mulch to the rose bed. Place mulch over the area where you planted the rose. If you planted a potted bush, place the mulch around the stem. This will keep the temperature consistent and protect the roses during the early stage of growth. Grow your roses indoors, alternatively. You can also raise roses in a greenhouse. You'll need containers that are at least 9 inches (22.9 cm) wide. Spread 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) of small pebbles at the bottom of each pot to ensure good drainage and fill each with halfway with well-draining soil. Plant the roses just beyond the graft point and then water well. Place your containers somewhere sunny in the greenhouse and arrange them so that the roses don't shade each other out. They will need at least 6 hours of direct sun per day. Prune the plants severely after planting, trimming each branch back about 3 inches (8 cm) from the main stem. Water the plants so that the soil stays slightly moist, but don't allow the water to touch the stems or leaves. Mulch the containers with a 2-inch layer to retain moisture in the soil, and fertilize the plants with water-soluble rose food every two weeks once new growth begins. Keep your greenhouse temperature at around 60 °F (16 °C) during the day and 40 degrees at night for optimal growth. Be aware of your variety’s needs. Rose care will depend a lot on the variety you're raising. Some roses like William Baffin and Lady Hillingdon climbing roses are more drought tolerant, for example, while others need more water. Some varieties can withstand less sunlight than others. Rose varieties should also be pruned differently depending on the variety and your climate area. Be sure to read up on the variety of rose that you are raising and know what it needs in terms of care. A hybrid tea rose has to be pruned back much more severely than a floribunda, for example, while old garden roses need only light grooming. Water them frequently in the summer. In very general terms, roses need a lot of water to grow healthy. Don't let the soil dry out; when you see it getting dusty give the roses a deep watering. For established plants, and depending on your region, you'll need to do this about once a week. Fertilize the roses. After they are established, roses should be fertilized a few times per growing season. Use fertilizer (either liquid or granule) in early spring, when you see the first few leaves sprout. Use it again after the first bloom, and again if there's another bloom. Stop fertilizing the roses at the end of the summer, just before Labor Day. Some fertilizers are slow-release, so they don't have to be applied as often. Don't over-fertilize the roses; this can lead to disease. Try cow, goat or manure made of kitchen waste to help them to grow better. Prune the roses. Pruning roses keeps them both beautiful and healthy. The goal is to clear away crowded areas to open up the bush, which helps prevent rotting and disease. The pruning strategy differs according to the season, but the cut you make is always the same: prune just above a bud eyes, the areas where branches form. They look like small circular swells and are usually located above a set of mature leaves. Make a down-slanted cut on an outward-facing bud eye. It's very hard to over-prune a rose, since new growth is always directed to the next closest bud eye. Keep this in mind when you choose bud eyes to prune, as it will affect the shape of your rose bush. Remember that the key is to prune with an eye toward opening the bush's growth up to allow for air circulation. In the late winter or early spring, trim the dead canes away. Cut away the rootstock, also called suckers, which are smaller offshoots of the main plant that suck away the nutrients from the rosebush. Leave 8 or so canes, trimmed back to 1/3 of their height. This will promote healthy growth as the weather warms up. In the summer, remove deadheads, which are dead blooms. This encourages new blooms to grow. Protect the roses over the winter. Roses that are left tall may be damaged by heavy winds and frosts during the winter. Trim the canes down to 2 feet (0.6 m). Tie them together with twine, to help protect them from inclement weather. Heap a mound of compost around the base of the bush, then top it with a layer of straw. When the weather warms to above 51 degrees, remove the compost mound. Spray aphids and spider mites off with water. These mites are quite common among most of the rose varieties. Using water is the most effective way to get rid of these pests. Use the hose to spray them away when you see them on your rose plants. Keeping the roses adequately watered also helps reduce pest infestations. Use insecticides sparingly. They can end up harming your roses and other plants in your garden, and kill bugs that are actually helping your plants. Remove leaves that look discolored and shriveled. If mites continue to be a problem, try making a solution of dish soap and water and spraying that on the rose leaves once a week. You can buy natural rosemary oil pesticide to spray on the leaves; this discourages mites without killing beneficial insects. Protect your roses from black spot and powdery mildew. Choosing varieties that are resistant to these common diseases, such as knockout roses, is your best bet. You can also protect your roses by using a fungicide at the beginning of the season. Go to your local nursery to ask about how to best protect plants from these diseases in your region.

. Buy bare root or potted roses. Get rose gardening supplies. Decide on a planting spot. Water the roses to prepare them for planting. Prepare a large hole. Plant the roses. Water the roses. Add mulch to the rose bed. Grow your roses indoors, alternatively. Be aware of your variety’s needs. Water them frequently in the summer. Fertilize the roses. Prune the roses. Protect the roses over the winter. Spray aphids and spider mites off with water. Protect your roses from black spot and powdery mildew.

https://www.wikihow.com/Relieve-a-Tension-Headache

How to Relieve a Tension Headache

If you need to relieve a tension headache, try taking an over-the-counter medication like acetaminophen, ibuprofen, or naproxen. Next, turn off all sources of noise and light in your immediate surroundings and try to rest for a little while. You can also apply a hot or cold compress to your forehead or the back of your neck to relieve pain and muscle tension. Peppermint essential oil can be soothing and ease discomfort, so you can experiment with applying it to your forehead and the back of your jaw.

Take over the counter headache medication. These include acetaminophen (Tylenol), ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) naproxen sodium (Aleve), and aspirin. Never take more than the amount recommended on the package, and use the lowest dose that relieves your headache. Ask your doctor about prescription medication. If your tension headaches do not go away with OTC drugs or lifestyle changes, your doctor may prescribe stronger medication. These include naproxen, indomethacin, and piroxicam. These prescription medications can cause side effects such as bleeding and upset stomach and raise your risk of heart problems. Your doctor should tell you about any side effects or complications before prescribing these to you. If you experience chronic tension headaches and migraines, your doctor may prescribe a triptan to relieve the pain. But opiates and narcotics are rarely prescribed because of their side effects and the risk of addiction or dependency. Try acupuncture. Acupuncture involves the insertion of fine needles into specific points in your body. The needles are then manually stimulated or stimulated electrically. This increases blood flow to the area around the needles and releases any tension or stress that could cause headaches. See a chiropractor. Studies suggest that spinal manipulation therapy performed by a licensed chiropractor may help treat tension headaches, especially if they are chronic. You can find a list of Chiropractic Licensing Boards in several countries at the Federation of Chiropractic Licensing Boards website. Always have treatments performed by a trained, licensed chiropractor. Ask your doctor about massage therapy. Medical massage therapy is a little different than massages given just for relaxation. Targeted massage therapy for the neck and shoulders has been shown to be effective at treating tension headaches and reducing their occurrence. Ask your doctor for a referral for medical massage. Health insurance companies may not cover massage. However, they are more likely to do so if you have a doctor's referral. Speak with your health insurance provider to determine whether this option is covered. You can find licensed and certified massage therapists with the directory search provided by the American Massage Therapy Association here. Have your eyes examined. Eye strain is a common tension headache trigger. If you have frequent headaches (two or more per week), schedule an eye examination. Difficulty with your vision could be contributing to your headaches. If you wear glasses or contacts, consider contacting your eye doctor for a new exam. Your vision can change, and if your prescription is no longer what you need you could be straining your eyes. Rest in a dark, quiet room. Stress is one of the main causes of headaches. And once you have a tension headache, you may be sensitive to light or sound. To counteract this, sit or lie down in a dimly lit room. Close your eyes and try to relax your back, neck, and shoulders. Do a deep breathing exercise. Deep breathing can help you relax and reduce any stress in your body, including your head. Take slow, even breaths and try to relax. Apply a hot or cold compress to your head. Heat and cold can help to relieve pain and muscle tension in your neck and head. Apply a moist hot towel or warm compress to the back of your neck or on your forehead. You can also take a long, hot shower, being sure to run water down your head and on the back of your neck. Wrap an ice pack in a towel and place it on the back of your neck or on your forehead. Apply peppermint oil to your temples, your forehead and the back of your jaw. Peppermint can have a nice soothing effect and ease any discomfort or pain. Once you massage in a few drops of oil, you should feel a cooling sensation on area. Breathe deeply and find a quiet place to sit or lie down. If you have sensitive skin, dilute peppermint oil with a drop or two of olive oil or water before applying it. Hydrate with water or herbal tea. As soon as you feel tension in your head, drink several glasses of water. Or make yourself some herbal tea to put yourself in a relaxed state of mind. Dehydration may trigger headaches. Avoid consuming caffeine or alcohol, as these will only dehydrate you more. Massage your face, head, and hands. Do a targeted mini-massage on your upper body. Use your fingertips to rub the back and sides of your head. Then, gently massage the areas under your eyes. Move your scalp gently back and forth using your fingertips. Don't move it more than a half-inch or so. You can also run your fingertips along the inside of each of your fingers and rub your palms. Try an acupressure massage to ease headache pain. This is a simple acupressure technique you can do on yourself at home. Exercise regularly. Physical activity can help to release any stress or tension in your body and produces endorphins in your brain, which fight off pain in your body. Do 30 minutes of walking, biking, or running at least three times a week. Be consistent with your exercise routine. Stand in Mountain Pose to improve your posture. Having good posture can help keep your muscles from tensing up. It can also release tension in your head. Doing yoga poses like Mountain Pose will improve your posture and relax you. Stand with your feet hip-width apart. Roll your shoulders back and place your hands at your sides. Pull in your abdomen and tuck your tailbone toward the floor. Tuck your chin towards your chest. Try to hold this pose for at least 5-10 breaths. Sit in Stick Pose. This is another good yoga pose to improve your posture and practice deep breathing. Sit with your legs straight out in front of you. Flex your toes so they move towards you. Roll your shoulders back and place your hands at your sides on the floor. Pull in your abdomen and tuck your tailbone towards the floor. Tuck your chin towards your chest. Try to hold this pose for at least 5-10 breaths. You can also cross your legs if straight legs is uncomfortable for you. Avoid food that contains MSG and caffeine. MSG or monosodium glutamate is a flavor enhancer commonly found in Chinese food. Some people react to MSG by developing a headache. But there is no scientific link between MSG and headaches. Other foods that may cause headaches include: Get at least 8 hours of sleep a night. A consistent sleep schedule will ensure your brain and body are free of anxiety and stress, two big causes of tension headaches. Keep a headache diary. This can help you to identify the source of your headaches and how you can adjust your environment and habits to avoid them. Practice relaxation and stress management techniques daily. This could be a morning yoga class, a 15 to 20 minute meditation or a deep breathing practice before you go to bed. Exercise at least three times a week to keep your anxiety and stress at bay. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and smoking. Get 8 hours of sleep a night and take care of yourself by avoiding stress at home and at work. Eat balanced meals that do not contain MSG or other headache-inducing foods. Drink lots of water every day and stay hydrated. Talk to your doctor about preventative medications if you have chronic tension headaches. Your doctor will examine you to make sure your headaches are not actually migraines or something more serious. If your headaches continue despite other pain medication and therapies, your doctor may prescribe preventative medication. These include: Tricyclic antidepressants. These are the most commonly used medications to prevent tension headaches. Side effects of these medications include weight gain, drowsiness, and dry mouth. Anticonvulsants and muscle relaxants, such as topiramate. However, more study is needed to determine the effectiveness of anticonvulsants and relaxants for tension headaches. Keep in mind preventive medication can take several weeks or more to build up in your system before they take effect. So be patient and continue taking the prescribed dosage, even if you do not see improvements as soon as you begin taking the medication. Your doctor will monitor your treatment to see how effective the preventive medication is for you.

Take over the counter headache medication. Ask your doctor about prescription medication. Try acupuncture. See a chiropractor. Ask your doctor about massage therapy. Have your eyes examined. Rest in a dark, quiet room. Do a deep breathing exercise. Apply a hot or cold compress to your head. Apply peppermint oil to your temples, your forehead and the back of your jaw. Hydrate with water or herbal tea. Massage your face, head, and hands. Try an acupressure massage to ease headache pain. Exercise regularly. Stand in Mountain Pose to improve your posture. Sit in Stick Pose. Avoid food that contains MSG and caffeine. Get at least 8 hours of sleep a night. Keep a headache diary. Practice relaxation and stress management techniques daily. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Talk to your doctor about preventative medications if you have chronic tension headaches.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Honey-Lip-Scrub

How to Make Honey Lip Scrub

To make a honey lip scrub, all you'll need is honey, oil, and sugar. Start by microwaving 1 tablespoon of honey for about 20 seconds or until it's mostly liquid. Stir in 1 teaspoon of olive, jojoba, or almond oil. Then, mix in 1 tablespoon of sugar, which will help exfoliate your lips. To use your lip scrub, dip your finger or a cotton swab into the mixture and rub it on your lips for about 10 seconds. Leave it on your lips for 2 minutes, then rinse it off. If you have any lip scrub left over, store it in an old makeup container.

Microwave a spoonful of honey. Start with 1 tbsp (15mL) honey. Microwave it for about 20 seconds, until the honey is mostly liquid. This makes it easy and fast to mix in the sugar. Stir in a little natural oil. Stir in 1 tsp (5mL) oil to keep your lip scrub smooth and help moisturize your lips. Olive oil, jojoba oil, and almond oil are popular options that keep the lip scrub light. Add a spoonful of sugar. Stir in 2 tsp (10mL) sugar, an exfoliant that scrapes away dead skin. Most people prefer brown sugar, which can be a little softer than white granulated sugar. If you have sensitive or sore lips, use superfine (caster) sugar instead, which has extra-small, gentle grains. Your lips themselves carry very little dead skin. A little exfoliation might help, especially if the skin around your lips is flaky, but moisturizing is often more important. This scrub does both. If all of your sugar dissolves, just add in more until the mixture is a little gritty. Rub the mixture onto your lips. Dip a clean finger or cotton swab into the scrub, making sure you pick up some sugar grains. Gently rub this over your lips for about 10 seconds. Some of the sugar might dissolve, while other grains will sit on top of your lips. Leave on for up to two minutes. Exfoliation should only take a few seconds, but the scrub can also moisturize your lips and soothe cracks and sores. Rinse off with warm water. We won't tell anyone if you decide to lick it off instead. Once it's gone, check out your lips in the mirror. Hopefully, they look fresher and feel smoother. If you're looking to keep your lips moisturized long-term, apply homemade lip balm after rinsing. Store the rest of the lip scrub. An old eyeshadow or lip balm case will work perfectly, although sterilizing is recommended to avoid germs. Depending on how fresh your oil was, this usually lasts about one or two weeks in the fridge before it becomes moldy or rancid. If the honey crystallizes, just place the container in a shallow bowl of hot tap water until the honey melts. Honey is a natural preservative, making this safer than most homemade scrubs. It is much less effective when diluted, so don't expect an oil-heavy recipe to last too long. Adjust the ratio of ingredients. There are many variations on this recipe, and it all comes down to personal needs. If you're not satisfied with the scrub, try these changes: If your lips are extra-dry, add another 2 tsp (10mL) oil. If your lips are sore or rubbed raw, mix in more honey until the scrub feels soft against your lips. If your lips still feel flaky after scrubbing, try a lip balm first. You can try to add more sugar to the scrub instead, but this can backfire by making your lips raw and damaged. Switch to a heavier oil for extra moisture. Shea butter or coconut oil contain beneficial fats that add smoothness and flexibility to skin and lips.  Whip the product to make it smoother, then stir 1 tsp (5mL) into your lip scrub — or replace the oil completely. If these feel too greasy to you, try jojoba oil or another light, extra-moisturizing oil. Petroleum jelly is not a great choice for a lip scrub since the lips won't absorb it. It's better in a lip balm, where it sits on top of your lips and stops moisture from evaporating. Flavor the scrub with vanilla extract. Is it possible to make sugar and honey even more delicious? Answer the question by stirring in ⅛ tsp (0.6mL) vanilla extract, or another food-safe extract. These extracts do contain alcohol, which can dry out your lips. Add essential oils cautiously. Essential oils can add a great scent and possible health benefits, but many can burn your lips or even poison you if ingested. Check with a doctor or an experienced herbalist before adding one to your lip balm. If you do find a safe option, just stir in two or three drops (or 1–2 drops per tbsp/15mL of lip scrub). Lavender, sweet orange, and green mandarin essential oils are typically safe for lips. Peppermint, spearmint, cornmint, and tea tree oils are popular choices, but should never be used on young children. Overuse can also dry out your lips. "Synthetic Flavor Oils" are non-natural alternatives that are generally safe for lips.

Microwave a spoonful of honey. Stir in a little natural oil. Add a spoonful of sugar. Rub the mixture onto your lips. Leave on for up to two minutes. Rinse off with warm water. Store the rest of the lip scrub. Adjust the ratio of ingredients. Switch to a heavier oil for extra moisture. Flavor the scrub with vanilla extract. Add essential oils cautiously.

https://www.wikihow.com/Install-Vertical-Metal-Siding

How to Install Vertical Metal Siding

To install vertical metal siding, start by applying horizontal furring strips and sheathing to the surface you're working on if it's uneven. Then, install the corner posts that came with your siding and nail j-channel along the top and bottom of the wall. If there are any windows or doors, nail j-channel around the edges of those as well. Next, install the siding one panel at a time by snapping it onto the panel before it and nailing it to the sheathing.

Inspect the surface you're working on to see if it's level. Metal siding looks best when it's installed on a flat, level surface. If the surface you're working on is uneven, the metal siding will look wavy and distorted. Check the wall beforehand so you know whether or not you'll need to level it out before you get started. Use a level to see if the surface is even and feel for any noticeable dips or bumps in the wall with your hands. Install horizontal furring strips every 16 inches (41 cm) if the wall is uneven. Furring strips are thin, wooden strips that you can find at your local hardware store. Putting up furring strips will help even out the surface you're working on so the metal siding doesn't look wavy. To install the furring strips, start by cutting them to size so they run from one end of the surface to the other. Then, nail them to the surface you're working on, leaving 16 inches (41 cm) between each strip. Make sure you install the furring strips horizontally and not vertically. They need to run in the opposite direction of the metal siding. Apply sheathing over the wall if you installed furring strips. Installing a layer of sheathing, like plywood, over the furring strips will give you an even, insulated surface to work on. Simply cut the material to size and nail it to the furring strips so the entire surface is covered. Choose sheathing that's no more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick so you're not building too far out from the wall. You can find sheathing at your local home improvement center. Skip furring strips and sheathing if you're working with an even surface. Sometimes it's not necessary to even out the surface you're working on, especially if you're installing siding over a relatively new building. If that's the case, you can put the metal siding up on the wall as is. Install the corner posts that came with your metal siding first. The corner posts are the pieces of siding that will wrap around the corners of the surface you're working on. The exact installation process may vary depending on the siding you're using, but generally you will need to position the posts on the corners and then nail them into place using the cut-out nail slots. Hammer in a nail about every 12 inches (30 cm) down both sides of the corner posts. Nail j-channel along the bottom of the wall you're working on. J-channel is an accessory to the siding that's used to receive and hide the ends of the panels so the final product has a smooth and finished appearance. Use the nail slots on the j-channel to secure it to the wall, just like you did with the corner posts. You'll need to measure and cut the j-channel to size so it fits along the bottom edge of the surface you're working on. Leave a ⁄ 4 inch (0.64 cm) gap between each end of the j-channel and the corner posts so it has room to expand and contract. You can cut j-channel using tin snips or a power saw. Install j-channel along the top edge of the wall. The j-channel at the top of the surface you're working on will receive one end of the siding panels, while the j-channel at the bottom will receive the other end. Nail j-channel along the top of the wall just like you did with the j-channel at the bottom, except this time the nail slots should be facing down. Leave a ⁄ 4 inch (0.64 cm) gap at each end like you did with the other j-channel. Secure j-channel around the edges of any windows and doors. If there are any windows or doors on the surface you're working on, some of the metal siding will need to be secured to the edges of them. Therefore, there needs to be something there to receive and conceal the ends of the siding, which is where the j-channel comes in. Install the j-channel like you did along the top and bottom of the wall, with the bottom edge of the j-channel pushed up against the edge of the windows or doors. There needs to be j-channel along each edge of the frame around any windows or doors. If your windows or doors already have a built-in receiver for siding, you don't need to install j-channel around them. Measure the length of the wall to see how many panels you'll need to use. Depending on the length of the wall, you may need to cut and use partial panels. For example, if the wall is 11 feet (3.4 m) long, and each siding panel is 2 feet (0.61 m) long, you would need 5 panels and 1 half-size panel. Measure the wall before you start installing the panels so you know exactly how many panels and partial panels you need to use. Siding panels come in different sizes depending on the brand and type that you purchase, so make sure you measure your panels before you get started. If you need to cut your panels to size, you can use tin snips or a power saw. Distribute partial panels evenly on both sides of the wall for a balanced finish. To keep your vertical metal siding looking polished and balanced, you want to avoid installing a partial panel on only one side of the wall. Instead, you should cut two partial panels that are each half the length of the partial panel you need and install them on each end of the wall. For example, if you need to use a partial panel that's 1 foot (0.30 m) long for your installation, you would cut two 6 in (15 cm) panels that would go on the ends of the wall. If you cut partial panels, punch tabs every 6 inches (15 cm) along the cut edge to use as nail slots. If you don't need to use partial panels for your installation, you can skip this step. Nail furring and utility channels along the corners if you're using partial panels. Since you'll be cutting off the edges that are supposed to snap into the corner posts when you make partial panels, you'll need to install a vertical furring strip and utility channel next to the corner posts so the partial panels have something to lock into. First, nail the vertical furring strip to the sheathing so it runs along the edge of the corner post. Then, insert a strip of utility channel into the edge of the corner post and nail it into place using the nail slots. If you're not using partial panels for your installation, there's no need to install furring strips or utility channels. Install the first panel by snapping it into the receiver on the corner post. Line the edge of the panel that doesn't have the nail slots up with the edge of the corner post and then slide it into place. You should hear it click as it locks into place. If you're using a partial panel, slide the cut edge of the panel into the utility channel you installed until it locks into place. Make sure the top and bottom ends of the panel are locked into the j-channel you installed along the top and bottom of the wall earlier. Hammer nails into the nail slots every 16 inches (41 cm) down the panel. Once one edge of the panel is locked into place, you'll need to nail the other edge to the sheathing to secure the panel. Make sure you hammer a nail into the top and bottom nail slots on the panel. Install the second panel so it overlaps with the first panel. First, snap the edge of the second panel into the receiving groove on the first panel so it locks into place. The second panel should cover the nails that you used to secure the first panel to the sheathing. Then, nail the second panel to the sheathing just like you did with the first panel. Repeat with the rest of the siding panels. Continue to lock and nail the panels into place until you reach the other side of the wall. If you're using partial panels, install the second partial panel when you reach the other corner post. If the surface you're working on doesn't have any windows or doors that you need to work around, you're finished! Cut panels to fit around any windows and doors on the wall. If you need to panel around any windows or doors, start by holding the panel over the section of the window or door you're working with. Then, measure and mark where you need to cut out space for the frame on the panel. Cut out that section of the panel and then snap the cut edge of the panel into place using the j-channel you installed around the window or door earlier. Once the panel is locked into the j-channel, nail the panel to the sheathing using the nail slots that are above and below the window or door.

Inspect the surface you're working on to see if it's level. Install horizontal furring strips every 16 inches (41 cm) if the wall is uneven. Apply sheathing over the wall if you installed furring strips. Skip furring strips and sheathing if you're working with an even surface. Install the corner posts that came with your metal siding first. Nail j-channel along the bottom of the wall you're working on. Install j-channel along the top edge of the wall. Secure j-channel around the edges of any windows and doors. Measure the length of the wall to see how many panels you'll need to use. Distribute partial panels evenly on both sides of the wall for a balanced finish. Nail furring and utility channels along the corners if you're using partial panels. Install the first panel by snapping it into the receiver on the corner post. Hammer nails into the nail slots every 16 inches (41 cm) down the panel. Install the second panel so it overlaps with the first panel. Repeat with the rest of the siding panels. Cut panels to fit around any windows and doors on the wall.

https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-a-Stalker

How to Get Rid of a Stalker

To get rid of a stalker, contact the police immediately if you think you are in danger, and discuss the possibility of getting a restraining order. Avoid interaction with the stalker if at all possible and tell them clearly that you do not want to see or talk to them again. If they attempt to contact you after that, ignore them and block their phone number, e-mail, and social media accounts. You can also protect your personal information by having mail sent to a secure P.O. box and not giving out your information to strangers.

Call authorities immediately if you feel like you are in danger. If you've been threatened or feel threatened, do not wait to act. Furthermore, if you've noticed any unquestionably illegal behavior such as stealing your things, assault, or trespassing on personal property, make an immediate note and call authorities. Depending on your age and situation, contact: Police School or workplace security Teachers or administrators Counselors or therapist Parents Notify friends, family, and coworkers about the situation and request their support. Stalkers thrive on secrecy and privacy. Notify your family, friends, neighbors and employers to not to give out your personal information, regardless of the innocuousness of the request or the identity of the questioner. Notify everyone to be cautious of any individual loitering around your neighborhood or place or employment. Give security and friends the description and, if possible, license plate numbers for the stalker's vehicle. Avoid traveling alone whenever possible. Having another person with you will greatly deter most stalkers from approaching. Walk out to your car with a coworker, join a jogging group instead of going alone, and ask someone to come along for errands. There is safety in numbers. Keep a record of any and all incidents. This may include letters, phone messages, emails, lurking, or any contact the stalker has attempted to make. Record the date when each contact occurred and keep this record in a safe place. If possible, make copies and give them to a trusted relative or friend, or place them in a safety deposit box. This can be used as evidence if you need to consult the police. Save every bit of evidence, as well as a copy. Keep them in separate locations. Save all digital communications, such as emails and phone calls, as well. Write everything down. If you can take pictures, do so. You can never have enough evidence, no matter how small or trivial it seems. Take measures to protect your children from strangers. If you have children, make sure that they are always accompanied to and from school and activities. Notify your children's school(s) not to give out any of your information, and provide them a list of individuals who are allowed to pick up your children. Ask staff to request that anyone on that list provide photo ID to validate their identity. If you cannot pick up your children, contact the school to let them know exactly who will be picking them up. Give your children a "secret word." If the person who comes for the children does not know the secret word when asked (by the children), then your children do not go with him/her and instead call for help immediately. Secure and protect your pet(s). Some stalkers, if they are unable to gain access to you, will target your animals. Do not leave pets outside unattended (even in a fenced in yard), and do not have pet doors. Have contact information for animal boarding homes and no-kill shelters in the case of an emergency where you are unable to take proper care of your pet(s). Improve your home security systems. Install more secure door locks, a stronger door, and a peephole. Make your windows and doors more burglar proof with shatter-proof windows or a bars. Install security lights and a security system. Put your indoor lights on a timer system so someone always appears home A dog (or even a 'beware of dog sign') is a deterrent to home invasions. Ask police to do regular check ups of your property if you see the stalker outside or frequently driving by. If you live in an apartment or condominium, ask management about its security policies and make sure that there is not a listing of tenants easily accessible to the public. Consider carrying a personal defense system like a taser or pepper spray. Carry it in a proper manner and familiarize yourself with how it is used. Only consider carrying a firearm if you have proper training in their use and are in compliance with your state's firearm laws. Keep in mind that any weapon that you carry could be used against you during an attack. This is a subject that you should discuss with law enforcement and an abuse/stalking counselor. Personal defense classes are a good way to protect yourself without having to carry a weapon or defense system. Prepare an emergency plan that you can easily utilize in case of a break-in or an attack. You must have a plan in place that allows you to protect yourself as much as possible. Have a safe place where all family members can arrange to meet in event of an emergency (the location only being known to a very trusted relative or friend). At this safe location, have needed supplies in a 'flight kit' (money, clothing, medication etc.), as well as emergency numbers for police, legal assistance, and abuse/stalking assistance. Be ready to leave at a drop of a hat if needed. Instead of always worrying, have a plan in place so that you can flee without having to think or pack. Discuss a temporary restraining order (TRO) or protective order (OOP) with police and abuse/stalking counselors. Keep in mind that a TRO or an Order or Protection is to initiate and assist the legal process -- it can not physically protect you from a stalker who is inclined towards violence. You must be responsible for your safety even with a TRO or OP in place. Always carry on your person two copies of the TRO or OOP that was issued, so that you can easily provide one to police and the stalker can not falsely claim to police that he/she wasn't aware of the TRO or OOP. An abuse/stalking counselor or victim's advocate may better assist you in determining what the best options for your situation are. When discussing your options, bring any evidence and logs of harassment that you have. Avoid talking to your stalker unless absolutely necessary. You should never try to "fix" the situation or the stalker. You should avoid contact as much as possible. That said, especially in the case of former partners or friends, some contact is inevitable. The following steps will help you if you absolutely must see/talk to someone, but the interaction should be kept brief and to the point. Never try to reform a stalker or assume that you can work through it. Your only option is to totally break contact. State your desire to avoid them clearly and without qualification. Simply state that you are no longer interested in pursuing a friendship with them. Keep it quick and simple, then hang up or leave. Never add terms, like "we could hang out if..." or suggestions that "time will fix things." Do not leave a door open for future harassment. "I do not want to see you again, ever. Is that clear?" "You and I are no longer together. You need to leave now." "This relationship is over." Warn the offender clearly of consequences. Tell the stalker in as few words as possible that they are not to contact you. "Do not contact me again." Do not engage in a lengthy dialogue or set of apologies. Let them know that you will call the police if they try. Your goal is to inform the stalker that their actions are harassment and warn them never to make contact with you from that point on. Record how and when you gave the warning along with any future incidents. Do not listen to "their side of the story," no matter how much they beg. They are far beyond that point. Ignore all further interactions. Your stalker may try to deliberately rile you by making provocative comments. Any response, even a negative one, only feeds into the stalker's belief that he/she is getting to you. Be strong and keep walking, and refuse to listen to any voicemail messages. It doesn't matter how low they stoop -- just move on. Don't try and fix things, retaliate, or get a point in. You want no contact at all -- nothing positive, negative, or neutral. The only thing you should say is, "please leave before I call the police." Avoid contact with family, friends, and associates of the stalker. Unfortunately, these individuals may willingly or unknowingly provide information about you to the stalker, such as new addresses or contact information. Do not allow people to act as "go-betweens" in an attempt to make contact with you. The stalker must be completely cut out of your life. Immediately ban or block their number and any social media profiles. Find them on Facebook, Twitter, and any other online forums and ban or block them from contact. Set all social media profiles to "Friends Only" instead of "Public" view. In your phone's "contacts" section, find their number and select "block caller." You do not want them to get any personal information from you at all, and ending all calls is much easier than trying to ignore them. If they know any of your passwords, especially your email, change all of them immediately. While it is a pain, permanently changing your email and phone number is the best way to ensure they cannot contact you at all. Open a PO safety deposit box to protect vital documents and mail. Use this to keep copies of all documents pertaining to the stalking behavior. Also include important personal and financial papers, passport, social security and insurance information, and other vital information that you can access in the event of an emergency. At the very least, put a lock on your mailbox. Do not let them get into personal information that may be delivered to you. Remove your details (name, phone number and address) from phone directories. Contact your phone company and ask for them to make your number and details private. You can also search yourself on the internet to see if there is anything you have missed. Refrain from mentioning your itinerary on social media. Finally, use creative usernames for Skype, IM and other accounts where people can search for you. Do not use your real name online unless absolutely necessary. Something like SportsLover86 is far safer than anything that hints at your true identity. Get out of town temporarily. If you feel that your home is being watched, stay somewhere else, such as your parents' home or the homes of relatives or friends. If you are living away from family and have not yet made solid friendships in your new town, seek advice from a campus counselor or from the local police for alternatives or to request check-ups on your property. If you must move permanently, leave early and rent a moving service to get your things discretely. Do not wait around the house with your things. Do not open envelopes whose return address you do not recognize. Do not open unexpected packages. Never open anonymous mail. The same goes for emails and attachments. Do not give out personal information to strangers. Keep everything close the chest, from living situations to your email address and phone numbers. While difficult, you must become more guarded and cautious to avoid leaking information to your stalker. Stay away from your common spots. This is no fun, but it is necessary. Ditch your longstanding running route, pick a new park or restaurant to frequent, and avoid the spots you're generally known to visit. Eventually, you may be able to return here, but for now they are common spots where a stalker might wait for you. Learn how to avoid being stalked on social media. Following these steps will prevent the stalker from spying on you and figuring out where you are and what you're doing. Be sure to set all of your social networking website information to "private" and make all attempts to block the stalker from accessing your information.

Call authorities immediately if you feel like you are in danger. Notify friends, family, and coworkers about the situation and request their support. Avoid traveling alone whenever possible. Keep a record of any and all incidents. Take measures to protect your children from strangers. Secure and protect your pet(s). Improve your home security systems. Consider carrying a personal defense system like a taser or pepper spray. Prepare an emergency plan that you can easily utilize in case of a break-in or an attack. Discuss a temporary restraining order (TRO) or protective order (OOP) with police and abuse/stalking counselors. Avoid talking to your stalker unless absolutely necessary. State your desire to avoid them clearly and without qualification. Warn the offender clearly of consequences. Ignore all further interactions. Avoid contact with family, friends, and associates of the stalker. Immediately ban or block their number and any social media profiles. Open a PO safety deposit box to protect vital documents and mail. Remove your details (name, phone number and address) from phone directories. Get out of town temporarily. Do not open envelopes whose return address you do not recognize. Do not give out personal information to strangers. Stay away from your common spots. Learn how to avoid being stalked on social media.

https://www.wikihow.com/Put-Your-Cat-to-Sleep

How to Put Your Cat to Sleep

It can be really hard to make the decision to put your cat to sleep, but if it's in poor health and is unlikely to recover, it may be the right thing to do. When it's time, bring your cat to your vet's office, or ask if the vet can come to you. Try to stay calm so you don't upset the cat, since it won't know what's going on. Most vets will allow you to be in the room during the procedure, but it's up to you whether you want to be present or not.

Decide whether your cat needs to be put to sleep. Besides a cat being in pain from an inoperable or untreatable condition, there is the cat's quality of life that needs to be taken into consideration. Talk to your veterinarian about any concerns you have regarding your pet's quality of life. These can include the following factors: Complete loss of appetite or unwillingness or inability to eat Trouble standing or walking. Falling over when standing or trying to walk. Difficulty with breathing or every breath is labored Incontinence or soiling problems Chronic pain or inability to get comfortable Chronic vomiting or diarrhea that threatens to leave your pet dehydrated Prepare yourself to say goodbye. Before making the appointment you will want to prepare yourself and your family members for life without your beloved cat. Make sure you have photos of your cat, spend some time with your cat petting and comforting it, and giving it a special treat or food. Remember to let any people that cared for and loved the cat join in this process. Do not lie to them that the cat is going to another home or that it ran away. Instead, explain to them the decision making process to euthanize the cat and explain the death to them in an age appropriate manner. An excellent book for kids is When a Pet Dies by Fred Rogers of Mr. Roger's Neighborhood fame. Decide how you would like your cat's end of life to happen. You will need to decide if you want to be with your cat to the end of its life. Only you can decide if you want to present for the process. Some people want to be, some don't. It only depends on what is right for you and your cat. Most veterinarians and their staff will be fine with you being present and will explain the process to you. If you can't be present they will understand that decision as well. When you call for the appointment to euthanize your cat you can ask if they will come to your home to do the euthanasia. Many cats get extremely anxious or stressed out with car rides or being at the veterinarian's office, so this may be a final kind thing you can do for your cat. Or you may prefer to have it done at the veterinarian's office to avoid unpleasant memories at home. Either the way the procedure is similar. Decide what you want to happen with your cat's body. You will need to decide on the disposition of the body after the euthanasia is completed, basically whether you want the cat's body cremated or not. Connected to this, you will also decide whether you want to take its ashes or body home with you for burial. Do you have a box or a special blanket to wrap the body in? Or will you decide to have the veterinarian's office arrange for cremation, which will add more money to the final bill. Do you have room to bury the body in your yard? Can you dig in the yard if it's winter time? Is there a safe spot to dig? You may have to check with your local utilities to make sure you don't damage any buried lines on your property. Bring your cat to the veterinary office or prepare a space in your home, if the euthanasia is happening at home. Pay any fees upfront, as you don't want to have to deal with this after your cat has passed away. Try to stay calm for the cat's sake. It will not know what is going on, so its best to not make is scared at the end of its life. Understand how your cat will be euthanized. Many times a sedative will be given to your cat in one of its muscle. This will help it relax, as the euthanasia solution needs to be given in the vein, usually using a front leg vein. After access to the vein is achieved the solution is slowly given and the cat's heart will soon stop. This normally takes place very quickly. Many veterinarians will place a small catheter into the vein while others are adept at using a plain needle on a syringe full of the euthanasia solution. The veterinarian will usually need their assistant to help hold the pet and keep its leg steady, but you should be able to stroke and speak to your pet if you want to. Occasionally a cat with heart or circulation troubles will take a bit more time for the solution to work. The cat may give a sigh or a couple of deep breaths. The veterinarian will check with his or her stethoscope to make sure your cat's heart is stopped before pronouncing your cat dead. They will assist you in respectfully readying your cat's body for a proper disposition. Grieve for your pet. Grieving at the loss of your beloved companion is normal. Your cat gave you companionship, loyalty and unconditional love which will be sorely missed. Everyone grieves differently: some cry, some get angry, some feel sadness. Here are some tips to help you cope with your loss: Create a memorial. This could be a spot on a shelf with your cat's framed photo, a special photo album with photos or you could plant a tree or bush in your cat's memory. Write your feelings in a journal. Ask your humane society or veterinarian if there are any pet loss support groups in the area. Call a pet loss hotline to speak with a counselor Most of all remember the happy times with your cat and enjoy those good memories.

Decide whether your cat needs to be put to sleep. Prepare yourself to say goodbye. Decide how you would like your cat's end of life to happen. Decide what you want to happen with your cat's body. Bring your cat to the veterinary office or prepare a space in your home, if the euthanasia is happening at home. Understand how your cat will be euthanized. Grieve for your pet.

https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Radishes

How to Cook Radishes

To cook radishes, start by preheating your oven to 450°F (230°C). Then, grease a baking tray. Chop off the top 1/4 inch (1cm) of each radish and slice them in half length-wise. Season them with olive oil and salt. Spread the radishes out on the tray and bake them in the oven for 18 minutes until they're tender on the inside and a little crispy on the outside.

Preheat the oven to 450 °F (232 °C) and grease a baking sheet. Get out a rimmed baking sheet and drizzle it with a little olive oil. Use a pastry brush to evenly coat the bottom of the sheet with the oil to prevent the radishes from sticking. You could also use canola, vegetable, or coconut oil. Rinse and cut the radishes. Rinse 2 bunches of radishes and cut off the top 1/4 inch (1 cm) with the greens. Chop the greens into bite-sized pieces and put them aside. Slice each radish in half lengthwise and transfer them to a mixing bowl. You can use red, pink, purple, or daikon radishes for this recipe. Season the radishes and spread them on the sheet. Pour 1 1/2 tablespoons (22 ml) of olive oil onto the radishes and sprinkle them with salt according to your taste. Stir the radishes to coat them in the oil and then spread them on the greased baking sheet so they're in single layer. If you don't want to use olive oil, you could use coconut, canola, or vegetable oil. Roast the radishes for 18 minutes. Put the baking sheet in the oven and roast the radishes until they're tender in the center and a little crispy on the outside. Stir the radishes 1 to 2 times while they roast to ensure that they cook evenly. To test if the radishes are cooked, insert a fork or knife into the center of one. You should be able to pull it out easily. Combine browned butter with lemon juice. While the radishes cook, put 2 tablespoons (28 g) of unsalted butter in a small saucepan. Turn the heat to medium-high and melt the butter with a pinch of salt. Keep cooking the butter until it smells fragrant and turns golden brown. Turn off the burner and stir in 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of fresh lemon juice. Pour the browned butter over the roasted radishes and serve them. Remove the roasted radishes from the oven and transfer them to a serving platter or bowl. Pour the browned butter over the radishes and sprinkle them with the chopped radish greens. Serve the radishes immediately. Refrigerate the leftover radishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Eat the radishes cold or heat them in a microwave for 30 seconds to 1 minute. To warm them on the stove, heat them in a pan for a few minutes until they're as hot as you like. Rinse and trim the greens from the radishes. Rinse 4 bunches of radishes under cold water to remove any dirt or grit. Dry the radishes and greens on a kitchen towel and then place them on a cutting board. Cut off the the greens and separate them from the radishes. Use red, pink, purple, or daikon radishes for this recipe. Chop the greens and slice the radishes into wedges. Use a sharp knife to chop the greens into coarse pieces. Set them aside and cut off 1/4 inch (1 cm) from both ends of the radishes. Discard the ends and slice the radishes into wedges that are 1/2-inch (12-mm) wide. Sauté the radishes with butter and salt for 12 minutes. Melt 1 1/2 tablespoons (21 g) of the butter in a heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Once the butter foams up, stir in the radish wedges and 1 teaspoon (5.5 g) of salt. Stir and cook the radishes until they become soft in the center and tender on the outside. You can substitute your favorite cooking oil for the butter. Insert a fork or knife into the center of a radish to see if it's finished cooking. The fork or knife should easily slide out. Cover and keep the radishes warm. Transfer the sautéed radishes to a large platter and cover them loosely with a sheet of aluminum foil. This will keep them warm while you make the browned butter. Sauté minced garlic in butter for 30 seconds. Peel 1 clove of garlic and mince it while you melt the last 1 tablespoon (14 g) of butter in the skillet. Turn the heat to medium and add the minced garlic to the melted butter. Stir and sauté the garlic until it's fragrant. This should only take 30 seconds or the garlic may start to burn. 1 clove of minced garlic generally equals 1/2 teaspoon. Stir in and sauté the radish greens for 1 minute. Add the coarsely chopped radish greens and cook them over medium-heat until they wilt. This should take 1 minute. Stir the sautéed radishes into the greens and garnish with chives. Remove the aluminum foil from the radish wedges and add them to the skillet. Stir them until they're combined with the greens. Sprinkle 3 tablespoons (9 g) of chopped fresh chives over the top and serve the dish immediately. Store leftover sautéed radishes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. You can eat the radishes cold or microwave them until they're as warm as you want. If you prefer, heat the radishes in a skillet on the stove for several minutes. Rinse and slice the radishes. Get out 2 bunches of radishes and rinse them to remove any dirt or grit. Set the radishes on a cutting board and trim off the greens. Set the greens aside to use as a garnish for the soup. Use a sharp knife to slice the trimmed radishes into 1/4-inch (1-cm) thick slices. You'll need 2 cups (230 g) of sliced radishes. Use your favorite radishes such as red, pink, purple, or daikon. Sauté some of the radishes with the onion for 5 minutes. Pour 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of extra-virgin olive oil into a large saucepan and turn the heat to medium-high. Stir in 1 3/4 cups (200 g) of the sliced radishes and ½ cup (75 g) chopped onion. Stir and sauté the vegetables until the radishes become translucent and the onions soften. If you don't have extra-virgin olive, oil, you can use canola, vegetable, or coconut oil. Chop 1 potato and add it to the saucepan with milk, salt, and pepper. Peel 1 medium Yukon Gold potato. Cut the potato into cubes that are 1-inch (2.5-cm) wide and add them to the saucepan. Stir in 2 cups (475 ml) of low-fat milk, ½ teaspoon (2.5 g) of salt, and ½ teaspoon (1 g) of ground pepper. Heat the soup and simmer it for 5 minutes. Keep the soup at medium-high heat until it starts to boil. Stir the soup and turn the burner to medium so it bubbles gently. Cover the saucepan and simmer the soup until the potato is completely soft. Stir the soup occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the bottom of the pan. Blend the soup. Put an immersion blender into the soup and turn it on to blend the soup until it's completely smooth. If you don't have an immersion blender, carefully pour some of the hot soup into a blender. Cover the blender and pulse it until the soup is smooth. Return the blended soup to the saucepan. If you're using a blender, pulse the soup in batches to avoid overfilling the blender. Cut the rest of the radishes into matchsticks. Place the remaining 1/4 cup (30 g) of sliced radishes on a cutting board. Cut the radishes into long thin strips the size of matchsticks. Garnish the soup and serve it. Pour the soup into 4 serving bowls and sprinkle a little of the radish matchsticks on top. Dollop 1 tablespoon (12 g) of reduced-fat sour cream on top of each bowl of soup. Roughly chop the reserved radish greens and sprinkle them over the soup. Store the leftover soup in an airtight container. Refrigerate and use the soup within 3 days. Warm the soup for 1 to 2 minutes in the microwave or heat it on the stove for about 5 minutes.

Preheat the oven to 450 °F (232 °C) and grease a baking sheet. Rinse and cut the radishes. Season the radishes and spread them on the sheet. Roast the radishes for 18 minutes. Combine browned butter with lemon juice. Pour the browned butter over the roasted radishes and serve them. Rinse and trim the greens from the radishes. Chop the greens and slice the radishes into wedges. Sauté the radishes with butter and salt for 12 minutes. Cover and keep the radishes warm. Sauté minced garlic in butter for 30 seconds. Stir in and sauté the radish greens for 1 minute. Stir the sautéed radishes into the greens and garnish with chives. Rinse and slice the radishes. Sauté some of the radishes with the onion for 5 minutes. Chop 1 potato and add it to the saucepan with milk, salt, and pepper. Heat the soup and simmer it for 5 minutes. Blend the soup. Cut the rest of the radishes into matchsticks. Garnish the soup and serve it.

https://www.wikihow.com/Fold-a-Towel-Elephant

How to Fold a Towel Elephant

To fold a towel elephant's legs, start by folding the edges of bath towel 6 inches, twice. Next, roll these edges toward the middle to form a double scroll, fold, then prop the towel up. For the elephant's head, roll the edges of a hand towel towards the center to create a long, V-shaped double roll. Then, turn it over and roll the narrow end into a tight curl to form the trunk. Finish the head by unrolling the flat top from the center to create the elephant's ears. Combine and voila!

Lay your bath towel out flat. If it's not reasonably flat, you may need to iron it. Fold the ends in by 6 or so inches (15 centimeters). Fold the folded ends in again the same distance. Roll your hem edges toward the middle of the towel, forming a double "scroll" look. Fold the "scroll" so that the rolls are facing "out". (This forms the body and legs of the elephant.) Stand the legs up and set aside. Lay the hand towel flat. Pin or clip the center of a long side to something (such as the leg of a chair). Place your hands on the towel edge near the fastened point and begin to roll the edge away from that point, sliding your hands away from the point as you roll, forming a long, pointed, double roll. The trick is to pull the towel taut as you roll it. Continue to the center till you can't roll it anymore. Turn the roll over so that the flat, non rolled side faces up, toward you. Roll the narrow pointed end (where you fastened the middle point) up in a tight roll to form the trunk. Squeeze slightly to help the towel keep a curl in it once it's released. Grasp the flat area of towel between your two towel points at the side that's facing down and unroll it away from the center. This will spread the "wide end" points out into "ears" and form the "forehead" of the elephant. Place the head on top of the legs, positioning for most natural look. Display proudly- Enjoy your elephant!

Lay your bath towel out flat. Fold the ends in by 6 or so inches (15 centimeters). Fold the folded ends in again the same distance. Roll your hem edges toward the middle of the towel, forming a double "scroll" look. Fold the "scroll" so that the rolls are facing "out". Stand the legs up and set aside. Lay the hand towel flat. Pin or clip the center of a long side to something (such as the leg of a chair). Place your hands on the towel edge near the fastened point and begin to roll the edge away from that point, sliding your hands away from the point as you roll, forming a long, pointed, double roll. Continue to the center till you can't roll it anymore. Turn the roll over so that the flat, non rolled side faces up, toward you. Roll the narrow pointed end (where you fastened the middle point) up in a tight roll to form the trunk. Grasp the flat area of towel between your two towel points at the side that's facing down and unroll it away from the center. Place the head on top of the legs, positioning for most natural look. Display proudly- Enjoy your elephant!

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Plastic-Bottle-Mosquito-Trap

How to Make a Plastic Bottle Mosquito Trap

To make a plastic bottle mosquito trap, first mark halfway down a 2-liter (2-quart) plastic bottle with a marker. Then, carefully cut the bottle in half at that point using a box cutter. Heat 1 cup (240 mL) of water in the microwave until it's steaming hot, then pour it into the bottom half of the plastic bottle. Next, add ¼ cup (50 g) of brown sugar to the water and let the mixture cool. When it's cooled, add a ½ teaspoon (1 gram) of yeast to the mixture. The yeast will eat the brown sugar and produce carbon dioxide, which will attract mosquitoes. Now, remove the cap from the top of the plastic bottle. Turn the top of the plastic bottle upside down and place it inside the bottom half of the bottle. Make sure the top of the bottle is above the water line. Tape the edges of the top half to the edges of the bottom half. Finally, place your mosquito trap in a spot where you've noticed mosquitoes. Replace the mixture in the trap every 2 weeks or whenever the bottle is full of mosquitoes.

Gather your materials. You will all of the items below to make a plastic bottle mosquito trap. Every item is easily found at your local grocery and hardware store. An empty, plastic 2 liter bottle A marker or pen A box cutter A tape measure 1/4 cup brown sugar 1-1 1/3 cup hot water 1 gram of yeast Measuring cup Tape (duct, scotch, or electrical are fine) Make a mark halfway down the plastic bottle. About 4 inches (10 cm) from the lid of the 2 liter bottle is about half of the bottle. You can use a ruler or measuring tape to find where 4 inches down the bottle is. Extend the tape measure 4 inches. Hold the end of the tape up to the end of the bottle's lid. Using your pen, make a mark where the tape measure ends; this is 4 inches. Draw a circle around the bottle 4 inches from the lid. You will be cutting the plastic bottle in half. The measurements here do not need to be exact, but drawing a marked guide line will be helpful. Using the pen mark you just drew as a guide, draw a circle around the bottle 4 inches down from the lid. This will guide you in cutting the bottle in half. Cut the plastic bottle in half. Cut carefully along your marked guide line until the bottle is in two sections. Keep both parts of the bottle; you'll use them both to make the trap. Be careful of sharp plastic edges as you cut. The edges don't have to be perfect, so don't worry if you're a bit off from the marked guide line. Measure 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Use your measuring cup to measure out 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Leave the sugar in the measuring cup; you will pour it into the bottle in the next step. Heat up 1-1 1/3 cup of hot water. You can heat up the water over the stove or in the microwave, whichever is more convenient. When the water begins to steam, it is hot enough for the trap. Pour the hot water into the lower half of the bottle. Pour the water slowly; since it is hot, you do not want to splash any water because it could burn you. Pour the brown sugar into the lower half of the bottle. Carefully pour the brown sugar from the measuring cup into the lower half of the bottle. Try not to spill any over the edges. Set the measuring cup aside once you've emptied it. Allow the mixture to cool. Set the bottle aside for however long it takes the hot water to cool. Twenty minutes should be long enough. Add 1 gram of yeast to the plastic bottle. You don't have to stir the mixture together. The yeast will consume the sugar and produce carbon dioxide, which attracts the mosquitoes. Hold the top half of the bottle upside down. The lid of the bottle will be facing downwards at this point. While you are holding the top half of the bottle upside down, grab the bottom half with your other hand. Place the top half upside down inside the bottom part of the bottle. Push the top inside gently until the cut edges align. Ensure the top of the bottle is above the water line. Adult mosquito should have enough room to fly in the bottle and down the lid. If there is not enough room for them to fly in the bottle, empty a bit of the solution out. Now, insects can fly into the trap and die from suffocation or starvation. Secure the edges with tape. Use tape to keep the edges aligned. A few pieces of tape placed around the bottle will suffice to keep the edges in place. Place the trap on a sturdy surface near the mosquitos. If there is a room or area where mosquitos have infested, place the trap there. A steady surface is optimal, such as a desk, counter, or the floor. Keep the trap out of people's way so it won't get knocked over. Notice when the bottle is full of dead insects or is ineffective. Eventually, many mosquitos will die in the bottle, and you will have to clean the trap for it to be effective again. Even if there are not many mosquitos, the liquid in the trap eventually loses its effectiveness because all the yeast has finished eating the sugar and no longer attracts mosquitos; many sources say this takes two weeks. Use a calendar to keep track of when you will need to change the liquid. Change the liquid when the bottle is full of insects, even if two weeks have not passed. Change the yeast and sugar solution when necessary. Luckily, this mosquito trap is reusable! Disassemble the trap by removing the tape. Then, wash both halves of the trap by rinsing it with water. Next, fill it up with more of the mosquito trap liquid.

Gather your materials. Make a mark halfway down the plastic bottle. Draw a circle around the bottle 4 inches from the lid. Cut the plastic bottle in half. Measure 1/4 cup of brown sugar. Heat up 1-1 1/3 cup of hot water. Pour the hot water into the lower half of the bottle. Pour the brown sugar into the lower half of the bottle. Allow the mixture to cool. Add 1 gram of yeast to the plastic bottle. Hold the top half of the bottle upside down. Place the top half upside down inside the bottom part of the bottle. Secure the edges with tape. Place the trap on a sturdy surface near the mosquitos. Notice when the bottle is full of dead insects or is ineffective. Change the yeast and sugar solution when necessary.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Questionnaire

How to Make a Questionnaire

To make a questionnaire, write short, simply-worded questions. Use closed-ended questions, like those that require a yes-no or true-false answer, when you want responses that fall into a specified range. You could ask, for example, “Do you shop at this store?” When you want feedback on people's experiences, write open-ended questions, such as “Why do you shop at this store?” Use a combination of these types of questions to get the information you want from your questionnaire.

Decide what you want to learn from administering your questionnaire. Ask yourself what data you require and how you will use it. This will help you come up with useful questions, as well as the order in which you will ask them. Plan questions that will help you get the information you need. Begin with a broad span of questions, then narrow them down until each one relates to your goals in some way. Keep questions and answers simple, using as few words as possible. You may want to rely on open-ended questions, closed-ended questions, or a mix of the two. Use closed-ended questions to gather specific answers. Closed-ended questions have a specific range of options respondents can choose from. These questions may be yes-or-no questions, true-or-false questions, or questions that ask the respondent to agree or disagree with a statement. Closed-ended questions may look like open-ended questions, but will have only a few options respondents can use to answer. Closed-ended questions might look like these: "Have you shopped here before?" "If so, how often do you shop here?" (This question would have a few explicit answers from which respondents could choose--"once a week" to "once a month," for instance) "How satisfied were you with your experience today?" (Likewise, this question would have limited responses--"very satisfied" to "very dissatisfied") "Would you recommend this store to a friend?" Use open-ended questions to solicit feedback. Open-ended questions solicit answers that you may not anticipate, and do not have a specific range of answers to choose from. Open-ended questions are a chance for respondents to communicate their specific experience or expectations. Such questions might look like these: "How will you use your purchase?" "Where else do you normally shop?" "Who referred you to this store?" Open-ended questions are good for clarifying a previous answer--"Why do you feel this way?" Ask questions in such a way as to avoid confusion and bias. Avoid leading questions especially; Leading questions indicate that the asker is looking for a certain answer and will limit what answers your responders are comfortable supplying. Either tailor possible answers or change the wording of your question so as to avoid leading your respondents to answer in a particular way. Questions should be worded so as to maximize clarity. Confused respondents will skew your data, so questions should be as understandable as possible. Avoid double negatives, unnecessary clauses, or unclear subject-object relationships. Think about how you will deliver your questionnaire. There are many options open to you. You may use an online service to design your questionnaire. You can then send links to your questionnaire over e-mail. You may use a phone or mail campaign to cold-call respondents. Or you can execute a campaign in-person, using professionals or volunteers to lead surveys. Design your questionnaire according to your delivery method. There are advantages and disadvantages to each method, and each method has limits on what you can do. Ask yourself which delivery method best suits the subject matter of your questionnaire, as well as the data you want to receive. For instance: Surveys delivered on the computer, by phone, and by mail can reach a broad range of people, whereas surveys administered in-person are time-intensive and limits who can participate (which may be useful). Surveys delivered on the computer, in person, and by mail can utilize pictures, whereas phone interviews cannot. Respondents may be too shy to answer certain questions in person or by phone. Decide if you want to give clarifications to your questions if the respondent doesn't understand something; only interviews given by a live person can deliver clarifications. A computer survey will require the respondent to have access to a computer. If your questionnaire concerns private issues, a computer survey may work best. Consider the order of your questions. The form of your questionnaire matters just as much as its content. You should aim to order questions so that they follow each other logically or mark clear shifts from section to section. Other kinds of questions may impact how a respondent fills out the questionnaire. "Qualifiers" are questions that screen certain respondents out, preventing them from completing other questions. Position these at the beginning of your questionnaire. If demographics are of major concern, ask demographic questions up front. Save personal or complicated questions for the end of the questionnaire. Respondents will not feel as overwhelmed by these questions and may be more likely to be open and honest. Decide if you will offer incentives for completing the questionnaire. It's often easier to attract respondents if you offer something in return for their time. Online, mail, or phone questionnaires could offer a coupon after questionnaire completion. In-person questionnaires could offer merchandise in exchange for participation. Questionnaires are also a good way to attract attention to mailing lists or membership offers, which may otherwise go unnoticed by respondents. Test your questionnaire before you begin surveying people. Friends, employees and family members can be good testers. You may have them try your questionnaire while it's still in development, or you may have them test a finished draft. Ask your testers for feedback. They may alert you to sections that confused them or felt out of place. User impressions about the questionnaire are just as important as the actual questionnaire. After you test, do some number crunching to ensure you are collecting the data you need. If you are not getting the information you want, adjust the questionnaire. You may need to reword some things, add introductions, or rearrange, add, or delete questions so your questionnaire leads you toward your goals. Review your data to understand what your questionnaire was really asking. Remember that a questionnaire is often part of a larger campaign. They can be altered and reused multiple times in order to target different demographics, ask different questions, or better align with your goals. After reviewing your results, you may find that, though your questions make sense, they aren't quite the right ones you need to achieve your goals. For instance, you may find that a question such as "How often do you shop here?" limits your demographic to those who shop at a brick-and-mortar store. If you want to see how people purchase a specific product, you may want to broaden your question to include online shopping. Your implementation method may also be limiting your data. For instance, surveys administered online may be answered largely by respondents with higher-than-average computer knowledge. Further revise your questions. Some of your questions may work during testing, but may not work as well out in the field. Your questions must make sense to the specific demographic you are targeting. Ask yourself if your respondents are truly understanding what is being asked, or if your survey is so standard that respondents are not responding thoughtfully. For instance, a question such as, "Why do you shop here?" may be too broad a question, which could mislead your respondents. If you want to know if the store's decor has an impact on shopping habits, you could instead ask respondents to describe how they feel about the store's decor, branding, etc. Review your open-ended questions. See if your open-ended questions are working the way you need them to work. They may be too open, in which case respondents may ramble. They may not be open enough, in which case the data you received won't be as valuable. Ask yourself what role your open-ended questions are playing in your questionnaire and tailor them as needed. As above, broad questions such as, "How do you feel while shopping here?" may not give your respondents enough direction. You could instead ask, "Would you recommend this store to your friends? Why or why not?" Decide how you will respond to missing data. Not all respondents will answer all questions, which may or may not be a problem for you. Ask yourself which questions are being skipped or answered incompletely, if at all. This may be due to the order of the questions, the wording of the questions, or the subject matter of the questions. If missing data is important, consider rewording skipped questions to make them more or less specific. Review what sort of feedback you are receiving. See if you have unusual trends in your data and decide if this reflects reality or if this is due to a flaw in your questionnaire. For instance, your closed-question answers will limit the sort of information your respondents can give you. Your answers may be so limited as to make strong opinions look the same as weak opinions, or may not provide for a full range of reasonable answers. For instance, if you are asking respondents to rate an experience, you should provide them with the option to respond with "very dissatisfied" as well as "very satisfied," and many options in between.

Decide what you want to learn from administering your questionnaire. Plan questions that will help you get the information you need. Use closed-ended questions to gather specific answers. Use open-ended questions to solicit feedback. Ask questions in such a way as to avoid confusion and bias. Think about how you will deliver your questionnaire. Design your questionnaire according to your delivery method. Consider the order of your questions. Decide if you will offer incentives for completing the questionnaire. Test your questionnaire before you begin surveying people. Review your data to understand what your questionnaire was really asking. Further revise your questions. Review your open-ended questions. Decide how you will respond to missing data. Review what sort of feedback you are receiving.

https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Quartz-Crystals

How to Clean Quartz Crystals

To clean a minor tarnish or stain off your quartz crystal, use an old toothbrush dipped in water. When you're done removing the stains, dry the crystal in indirect sunlight. If you need to remove iron stains from your crystal, use a high-pressure water gun. Alternatively, soak your crystal in a weak solution of oxalic acid overnight, then rinse it with water the next day. For algae deposits, soak your crystal in a bowl filled with water-diluted bleach for several days.

Use an old toothbrush. If you have just a few quartz crystals or crystals that are only slightly tarnished by clay, you can use an old toothbrush to clean them off. Simply wet the toothbrush with water and scrub the quartz crystals in your hand. You can even use scouring powder and a steel brush for tougher stains, as quartz is a very durable material. Dry the quartz crystals in the sunlight. If your quartz crystals are covered by a large amount of clay, you can place them outside in indirect sunlight for several hours to let the clay dry and crack. Once the clay is sufficiently dry, you should be able to brush off the remnants. You may need to repeat this process several times. Be sure not to place the crystals in direct sunlight because this could cause them to heat up too quickly and become damaged or cracked. This method will only work to remove dried clay from your quartz crystals. If the quartz is covered in iron deposits, you'll need to use an oxalic acid method. Remove iron stains with a high pressure water tool. Most iron stains can be removed with a high pressure water gun. Simply shoot the water spray at the quartz crystal and watch the stains disappear. This will work for most iron stains on your quartz, leaving only some slight staining in the cracks of the crystal. You can also try removing many of the iron stains with a high pressure air tool. Soak overnight in oxalic acid to remove iron deposits. If your quartz crystals have only a small outer layer of iron, you should be able to thoroughly clean them by soaking them in a weak solution of oxalic acid overnight. Put the quartz crystals in a plastic bucket with the oxalic acid and cover the bucket overnight. You can rinse the crystals with a garden hose or in the sink the next day. Be sure to stopper the sink so that you don't lose any of the crystals. Oxalic acid can be purchased from most drug stores in powder form. Remove stains by soaking in a store-bought solution. You can purchase a cleaning solution called Iron Out at most home improvement or household stores (like WalMart). Simply soak the quartz crystals in the cleaning solution and watch the stains disappear. You may have to let the crystals soak for days or even weeks for them to become completely untarnished. Be sure to rinse the quartz crystals with water when you finish. If you want to make your own Iron Out cleaning solution, you can combine 33 grams of sodium dithionite, 28 grams or sodium bicarbonate, 59 grams of sodium citrate, and 800 milliliters of water. Simply swirl the mixture around until all of the chemicals are dissolved in the water. Remove algae deposits by soaking the crystals in bleach. If your quartz crystals are covered in algae deposits or other minerals, you can try cleaning them with household bleach. Soak the crystals in a bowl filled with water-diluted bleach and let them sit for several days. Be sure to rinse the quartz crystals well after taking them out of the bleach solution. Let the crystals dry thoroughly (for at least one day) before you begin any other kind of chemical cleaning. Perform the cleaning in a well-ventilated area. Whenever you are cleaning quartz crystals with oxalic acid, you need to do it in a highly ventilated area. These fumes can be very harmful to you if you inhale them. Acidic fumes can be poisonous to animals and humans. Wear gloves when handling any type of acid. In addition to being harmful if inhaled, acid can burn you if it comes into direct contact with your skin. Be sure to wear rubber gloves when handling oxalic acid and while cleaning quartz crystals. Make sure to wear rubber gloves and not fabric gloves. The acidic residue could remain on the fabric gloves or seep through to your skin. Dispose of the acid waste properly. Since oxalic acid waste is considered a hazardous material, you need to neutralize it first before you can dispose of it. At the end of the cleaning process, the oxalic acid will be in a liquid form. You need to add garden lime (CaO) to the liquid until there is no longer any visible reaction. You can do this outside on the ground and wash away the remnants with a hose. Or you can do it by using a funnel to pour the spent oxalic acid into a gallon jug and add the lime in there. Then simply throw away the jug and its contents in a trashcan or dumpster.

Use an old toothbrush. Dry the quartz crystals in the sunlight. Remove iron stains with a high pressure water tool. Soak overnight in oxalic acid to remove iron deposits. Remove stains by soaking in a store-bought solution. Remove algae deposits by soaking the crystals in bleach. Perform the cleaning in a well-ventilated area. Wear gloves when handling any type of acid. Dispose of the acid waste properly.

https://www.wikihow-fun.com/Look-Like-a-Modern-Style-Elf

How to Look Like a Modern Style Elf

To look like a modern-style elf, wear flowy tops in green, blue, brown, or silver, and pair them with normal bottoms, like jeans or a skirt, so you look modern. You can also wear subtle accessories, like forest-inspired earrings, necklaces, or bracelets. If your hair isn't already long, consider growing it out since elves tend to have long, flowy hair. In addition to looking the part, remember to treat people, animals, and the environment with respect like an elf would.

Wear things in colors that suit your environment or the type of elf you want to be. For example, if you want to be a forest elf, wear green, brown, blue, and silver. Other colors may be added, Don't limit yourself (or your 'elf). You may continue to wear clothes that suit your style of fashion without compromising your elven style. You can wear denim mini shorts successfully if you wear them with a floaty top and/or accessories. Skirts are quite good. Long, short, denim, cotton, silk, it doesn't matter. There is absolutely no need for a cap (this would detract from your "normality"). Accessorize with accessories that go with the style you are aiming for. Silver, green, blue, brown are good base colors for forest elves. Brown, orange, yellow, red and blue are good for desert elves. Don't be afraid to add splashes of other colors and don't limit yourself only to these colors. Be adventurous sometimes. Be careful though, and always remember that Elves are subtly beautiful. They see no need to go flashing their wealth and beauty to everyone. Add matching makeup. Elves are always beautiful but don't let this dishearten you if you feel you are not. You will almost certainly look beautiful if you are confident in yourself. You will require lovely skin though. Find a good skin care regime with antibacterial products for acne. You don't need to wear make-up: an elf has a natural beauty, and having clean skin should be all you need. I f you really like make-up, you may want to wear it, but stick to natural colors or greens and browns. Make sure that the colors you choose look natural on you and complement your natural skin tone. Eyeliner applied skillfully will make eyes look bigger and angled upwards. Do this by putting eyeliner on the top of your eyes but only from the middle to the outer side. Flick it out gently if you wish. Then apply it on the bottom but only on the outer quarter. Blend it with the top and smudge for a more natural look. Bronzer and blush may look good but don't overdo it, elves are naturally beautiful, you want to make it look like you aren't wearing makeup at all. Keep lips moist and healthy with balm. Nail polish is fun too. Style your hair. It doesn't really matter about hair, but long usually looks right. Short hair will still look really cool, but you may look more pixie than elf (nothing wrong with that though!). Colour and texture do not matter. Keep it clean though and wear it out usually. As long as it's clean, any style will do; however, it's usually most elven-looking to not have it hanging in your face. Braids look really good; you can try french braids, one long braid, pulled-back braids, braiding small sections, putting braids in buns, etc. Half-ponies and buns are also good. Try to match your body height and size with the type of elf you want to be, but don't go too far. Elves are usually tall and thin so you may want to exercise to lose weight BUT DON'T STARVE YOURSELF! If you are short this doesn't matter, wear high heels if you want but it won't matter really. Hold your self tall and confidently but don't act like a snob. Pull your shoulders back and push your chest forward but not overly so. You don't want to look like you are showing of your breasts. Hold your head high and proud. Walk and talk musically and elegantly. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/3b\/Look-Like-a-Modern-Style-Elf-Step-5.jpg\/v4-460px-Look-Like-a-Modern-Style-Elf-Step-5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/3b\/Look-Like-a-Modern-Style-Elf-Step-5.jpg\/aid519844-v4-728px-Look-Like-a-Modern-Style-Elf-Step-5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Change your personality slightly to match one of an elf, but still be yourself. Don't change your personality entirely. Keep your own self in there somewhere but don't become angry quickly, be calm, have dignity, be kind to all animals, the environment and other people and stand up for what you believe in and what is right. Elves are loyal to their allies (i.e. your friends).

Wear things in colors that suit your environment or the type of elf you want to be. Accessorize with accessories that go with the style you are aiming for. Add matching makeup. Style your hair. Try to match your body height and size with the type of elf you want to be, but don't go too far. Change your personality slightly to match one of an elf, but still be yourself.

https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Fake-Poop-for-a-Prank

How to Make Fake Poop for a Prank

If you want to prank someone with fake poop, try using an old toiler paper roll. Just tear the roll open, soak it in the water, then shape it to look like poop. For fake poop that's a little more realistic, mix powdered sugar, peanut butter, cocoa powder, and milk in a bowl. Once you've mixed them into a dark brown lump, shape it into poop, and leave it to dry. Then, just leave it around someplace for people to find.

Gather the ingredients. For this method, you'll need 1.5 cups of powdered sugar, ⅓ cup of peanut butter, ⅓ cup of cocoa powder, and 1 tablespoon milk. You won't need any cooking supplies besides a large bowl in which to mix the ingredients. The ingredients will form a dough that you mold into fake poop. The peanut butter you use can be creamy or chunky. Chunky peanut butter can add a little texture to the eventual product. If you've only got creamy peanut butter, but want to add some texture, you can include some chopped nuts of any kind. Mix the ingredients in a large bowl. There's no special order in which you need to add ingredients. Just throw them in as you'd like. Spend about 2 minutes stirring with a large spoon until all the ingredients are well-mixed. The color should be a dark brown and you shouldn't be able to spot any constituent ingredients. If the mix seems too thick for shaping, add more milk until it feels malleable enough to mold into pieces. If it seems too runny, consider adding a bit more cocoa powder or peanut butter. Shape the mix. Once all the ingredients have been combined and mixed in with one another, you'll want to begin to mold your fake poops. The size is entirely up to you, though it's important to keep it reasonable if you'd like the fake poop to be believable. Depending on the size of your mold, this mix should yield six to eight separate pieces. Set aside to dry. Once you've molded all the individual pieces, set them aside on a large plate, uncovered, to dry. Due to the milk used in the mix, the pieces will still be a little moist for use. There's no precise amount of time you ought to wait; continue checking the pieces until you feel they're dry enough to handle. These fake poops contain dairy products. You'll want to make use of them within the day. If you want to make them last longer, refrigerate them. Fill a bowl with water. In this method, you'll need only a cardboard toilet paper roll (with the toilet paper gone) and some water. To begin, fill a relatively large bowl with water. Be sure the temperature of the water is comfortable enough to put your hands in. You could also fill a sink for quick drainage later. Open the cardboard roll. On your toilet paper roll, you should see that it is formed by a spiral glued to itself. Generally, the ends of the spiral will be pointed tips at either end of the toilet paper roll. The cardboard should be soft enough that you can rip it yourself, undoing the glue and unfurling the paper roll into a cardboard sheet. If the cardboard doesn't seem to want to budge, don't hesitate to get scissors and simply cut the roll lengthwise in half. Submerge the paper roll. Take the now open cardboard roll and push it to the bottom of the bowl of water. You'll most likely need to hold it at the bottom with your hand. Allow a minute or so for the cardboard roll to fill with water. Once soaked, it will be pliable and capable of molding into your fake poop. Don't fret if the cardboard ends up ripping. Once you begin the mold, you can simply stick the fallen pieces back on. The only concern is pieces falling off once the mold dries. Mold your fake poop. Remove the cardboard from the water. You may need to hold it above the bowl for a few seconds to allow the excess water to fall off. The cardboard is best molded by laying it flat in your hand and squeezing into a closed fist. This will compress the cardboard into your fake poop. Like the previous method, this fake poop is also used best shortly after its creation. Otherwise, the cardboard may dry out and begin to crack and fall apart. You may be able to make your fake poop last longer by sprinkling a bit of water over it as it begins to dry. Collect your ingredients. For this method, you'll need a 1/2 cup of white glue. Elmer's glue is the go-to here or any other white school glue. You'll also need a small amount (about 1 teaspoon) of brown paint or brown food coloring, 1/2 a cup of warm water, and 1 teaspoon of borax powder. You'll need two containers for mixing, at least one of which is fairly large for the final mix. If you have neither brown paint or brown food coloring, use chocolate syrup. You will need a slightly higher amount of chocolate syrup than you would brown paint or food coloring. This is not the method to use if you think there's any risk of anyone or any pet eating the fake poop. Borax, while not deadly in small amounts, is still harmful and very upsetting to the stomach. Combine your ingredients. First, in the large bowl which will eventually contain the entire mix, combine the 1/2 cup of white glue and whatever you're using as brown coloring. Add color until you have your desired hue. In another container, mix your borax and water until the borax is visibly dissolved. Once both individual mixes are complete, combine them in the larger bowl, stirring constantly as you do so. You should immediately notice the mixture begin to thicken and become more viscous, almost like pudding. Knead the mixture for about a minute. The mixture, once combined, quickly becomes too thick to be mixed by hand and must be kneaded like dough. Using your hands, take the borax dough and push into it, pull on it, and remove it from the walls of the bowl. It should be ready for molding once you've formed it into a ball, with no mixture remaining on the sides of the bowl. Form your fake poop. Again, the ultimate size of the fake poop(s) will be up to you. This one can be used altogether as a single lump or broken into individual pieces. Prank-wise, this fake poop is best to be stepped in, as it matches texture with the real thing closer than many other methods will allow.

Gather the ingredients. Mix the ingredients in a large bowl. Shape the mix. Set aside to dry. Fill a bowl with water. Open the cardboard roll. Submerge the paper roll. Mold your fake poop. Collect your ingredients. Combine your ingredients. Knead the mixture for about a minute. Form your fake poop.

https://www.wikihow.com/End-a-Codependent-Relationship

How to End a Codependent Relationship

It's often for the best to end a codependent relationship, because they're often destructive and harmful to both people. The first thing you'll need to do is make time to talk to the other person so you can explain your reasons to them. During your discussion, it's important to stay firm in your decision, since the other person may try to make you change your mind. For example, you might tell them that you've been neglecting your own needs and that you're not willing to do this anymore. Try to remain calm by speaking slowly and softly to avoid escalating the situation, since the other person may respond angrily or aggressively. If you've been caring for a close friend or relative, they may persist in trying to win you back, so you'll need to make your boundaries clear to them. For instance, you may move out if you've been living together or refuse to help them with something. If your siblings or a friend can help, like by doing more to take care of the other person, talk to them so you're not carrying all of the burden.

Recognize your choices. You may feel as if you do not have choices in this relationship. However, you do have the freedom to love someone because you choose to and not through dependency. You have the freedom to leave a destructive or harmful relationship. Recognize your ability to choose what you want and what serves you best. The relationship may feel like it is serving the other person much more than it is serving you. Is it your responsibility to take care of this person? Think about what options you have, and that the other person is capable of making choices, too. Be firm in leaving. Often, codependent people may become so engrossed in someone else's care that they neglect their own needs and become out of touch with their own desires, wants, and needs. If you're ready to end the relationship, be firm in your assertion to end the relationship, and know that this decision is what you want and need. Before going into a discussion, remind yourself that you are firm in your decision and are not open to renegotiating the relationship or giving it “another shot.” Chances are, you've probably already given this person “just one more chance” without much changing. If you end the codependent relationship yet the person is still in your life (like a parent or sibling), be firm in enforcing your boundaries. Be firm, even when the person pleads with you to stay. Say, “I've given this a lot of thought and I am sure of my decision. I am not willing to waver on my decision.” Have a talk. Ending a codependent relationship may be difficult just to walk away from and may require a discussion. The other person may feel confused if the dynamics of the relationship suddenly change and their needs are no longer being met in the same way without explanation. Choose a time when there are no interruptions, and open the discussion. You can say, “I've noticed that the way we interact isn't healthy. I'm realizing how little I take care of myself. It's important for me to keep boundaries, and that means ending this relationship with you.” Act calmly. The other person may not take your decision well. He or she may react in anger, rage, upset, hurt, or sadness. Even if the person threatens you, remain calm in your demeanor. Don't raise your voice, yell, or swear. If the person is yelling, respond with a soft and gentle voice. It's likely the person will mirror your behaviors. If the person starts to accuse you, say, “I'm not willing to talk about things from the past or get into an argument with you. I'm letting you know how I feel and that I am leaving.” For more information, check out How to Calm an Angry Person. Express your feelings. It's up to you how much you wish to discuss with the person. You may wish to say, “I cannot go on with this relationship” or you may wish to elaborate and say what is not working for you. When talking about your feelings, keep the focus on you and avoid blaming the other person. Use “I” statements instead of “you” statements. For example, “I” statement keep the focus on you and not on blaming the other person. Instead of saying, “You take all of my attention and you wear me out” say, “I've put myself in this position and find myself tired all the time. This isn't good for me.” Set limits. Ending some codependent relationships may mean completely walking away, while others may end a codependent relationship in favor of a healthy relationship, such as family relationships. You may feel entirely responsible for the action of others. Or, you may feel like you have to go over and above your share of the responsibilities. Start to set limits on what you are willing and unwilling to do. For example, If your brother is hungover and wants you to call his work with an excuse, say to him, “It was not my decision to drink last night. This is a consequence you have to deal with on your own.” if you need to study for a test and a friend calls you to talk about her problems, say, “I care about you and want to support you, however, it's important for me to study for my exam tomorrow. Why don't we check in tomorrow?” If you want to set specific boundaries, let the person know. Say, “We may have to work some things out, but I'm unwilling to meet with you face to face. I want to limit our communication to texts.” For more information, check out How to Stop Being a People Pleaser. Think about what the relationship fulfilled for you. While you may feel like you put in a lot of effort to this relationship-- including caretaking roles-- it's likely you've also gained from this relationship. If you did not find some fulfillment in the relationship, you probably would have ended the relationship much sooner. Consider how this relationship has served you and why it no longer serves you. For example, you may have felt like you had a sense of purpose by taking care of someone who was an alcoholic or that had a major medical condition. You may love the feeling of “being needed” or being in control. Work through feelings of abandonment. People in codependent relationships tend to have a fear of abandonment. This can be one reason they choose a helping role in a relationship: taking care of someone and having someone depend on them means this person won't likely abandon them. If you have a fear of people leaving you, see a therapist. Therapy can help you work through feelings of abandonment, explore ways to care for yourself, and trust others. Often, abandonment issues start in childhood or with a traumatic event. It's beneficial to work through these issues in order to help you free yourself from the fear of abandonment. Validate your own self-worth. Chances are, you find at least part of your self-worth in caretaking. Instead of relying on helping others to validate you, learn to validate yourself without needing others to validate you. You may feel as if you need others to tell you how important you are, but you can do this on your own. As you think about ending the codependent relationship, reflect on where you derive your sense of self-worth. How do you perceive yourself? What are your own thoughts about who you are and what you deserve? Do other people seem more able to attain success or happiness than you? Meet your own needs. You may be so caught up in meeting someone else's needs that you neglect your own needs. While it may feel like the person depends on you, recognize what is within your own responsibility. It's likely that by devoting your time, attention, and resources on this person, you've neglected taking care of yourself. You may feel like you have no idea who you are outside of taking care of this person, or that your full identity is taking care of someone. Start to regain a sense of what your own needs are. For instance, do you need alone time to recharge after a stressful day? What do you do to cope with stress? Have you neglected your nutritional or exercise needs? What about sleep? Create physical distance. Spend less time with the person and don't clear your schedule to take care of the person's needs. If you live with the person you are in a codependent relationship with, move out. Living together may exacerbate the need to caretake for the person. Moving out can create physical distance between the two of you, which can help decrease the need to caretake. Help create emotional and physical space between the two of you by spending less time together. You can also create emotional distance from this person. Gently let the person know that you are not willing to respond to texts, emails, or phone calls. Say, “I want this relationship to be complete. I don't want this to be confusing and I think we both need time to process. For that reason, I don't plan to respond to texts, phone calls, or emails.” Process your feelings. Don't stuff your feelings down, or tell yourself that everyone is just fine. Instead, process how you feel and pay attention to your feelings. Reflect on the relationship and your sense of identity after it. Identify and process each emotion that comes up and don't ignore how you feel. You may choose to process your feelings through a journal , by talking to a friend, or by seeing a therapist. Accept your grief. Undoubtedly, it will be difficult to end the codependent relationship. Accept that it will be hard and may hurt. Don't repress your grief, which may lead to depression. Instead, accept it and allow yourself to feel it. Grief can include feelings of disbelief, anger, fear, and sadness. Other symptoms of grief may include feeling tired, tense, empty, or having changes in sleep or eating habits. Allow grief to run its course. Let go of what may have been and accept what is. One way to work through grief is by observing your body. The more you think , the less connected you are to your emotional experience. When experiencing emotions, pay attention to how it feels in your body. Where do you feel it, and what kind of sensation do you feel? Let the bodily sensations and the emotions move through you. Seek social support. It can be difficult to separate yourself from a codependent relationship. Have someone to talk to about ending the relationship who will support you. Reach out for emotional support by talking to a friend or family member. A trusted friend can help guide you through making tough decisions, then support you as you follow through with difficult choices. For more information, check out How to Build a Social Network. Go to therapy. If you find it difficult to process the end of the relationship on your own, a therapist may be helpful. Therapy can help you address your thoughts, attitudes, emotions, and behaviors and discover what is beneficial and what is hurting you. Therapy can help you increase your self-awareness and your coping skills. A therapist's role is to challenge and support you. Be prepared to grow and approach difficult aspects of yourself in therapy.

Recognize your choices. Be firm in leaving. Have a talk. Act calmly. Express your feelings. Set limits. Think about what the relationship fulfilled for you. Work through feelings of abandonment. Validate your own self-worth. Meet your own needs. Create physical distance. Process your feelings. Accept your grief. Seek social support. Go to therapy.

https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-Stage-Makeup

How to Apply Stage Makeup

If you're a performer, use stage makeup so the bright lights won't wash out your facial features. Start with an oil-free foundation that matches your skin tone to keep your face from looking shiny onstage. Then, put some blush along the line of your cheekbones to contour your face. To help your eyes pop, use a light eyeshadow color on your lids and under your brows and a darker neutral color on the creases of your eyes. To further accentuate your eyes, use black or brown eyeliner on your upper lash line and mascara on your upper and lower lashes. Finally, fill in your brows with a brown pencil to help frame your face.

Wash your face thoroughly and apply a good moisturizer. Clean and moisturized skin provides a smooth base for your makeup and helps it last longer during a performance. Wash your face thoroughly, then pat your skin dry with a soft towel. Apply a good moisturizer all over your face and neck, followed by a light, colorless balm on your lips. For dry skin, try an exfoliating cleanser to smooth out flaky areas. If you have oily skin, use an alcohol-free toner after you wash, then apply moisturizer. Apply an oil-free foundation. Use a sponge or brush to apply foundation to your entire face. Choose a shade that matches your skin tone or, if you're very pale, you may want to go one shade darker. Use makeup with a warm, yellowish undertone, since stage lights tend to be cool in tone. Blend well around your hairline, temples and jaw so that everything looks even. Oil-free foundation will keep your skin looking matte onstage. Contrary to popular belief, you don't need to slather on the foundation. Apply just enough to even out your skin tone. Opt for waterproof cream foundations, which do well under stage lights. You can also use cake makeup, which is formulated for the stage. Emphasize your cheekbones with blush. Apply blush from the middle of your cheeks (just outside the center of your eyes) to your ears with a fluffy brush. Aim for the area just below your cheekbone, which is the “hollow” of your cheek. This contours your cheekbones and makes them stand out onstage. Blend the blush in well. In general, women should go with a rosy shade. For men, go with a shade or two lighter than that. If you're concerned about your blush running under the stage lights, use a cream formula. Apply a light eyeshadow color on your lids and under your brows. Select a neutral eyeshadow that is 1-2 shades paler than your skin tone. Use an eyeshadow brush to apply the palest color just beneath your eyebrows. You can use the same color on your lids, or you can use an eyeshadow that is one shade darker. Blend both areas well. Cream formulas work well for eye makeup, especially under hot stage lights. Apply a dark neutral color into the crease of your eye. Use an eyeshadow brush to apply a dark neutral color, like brown, to the area between the brow and lid, where the skin creases. Be sure to blend the eyeshadow well so there are no hard lines. Depending on the performance, you may be asked to use a brighter color in the crease. If nothing is specified, a neutral brown shade works well. Use brown or black waterproof eyeliner on the upper lash line. Pencil and liquid liners both work, as long as they're waterproof. Start at the inner corner and draw a firm, thin line along your upper lash line to the outer edge of your eye. Don't make the line too thick, unless your role calls for a dramatic look. Make sure the lines are even and both eyes match. Brown and black both work, but black liner will give you more definition. For a more natural look, men may want to go with brown. Optionally, you can apply a white eyeliner pencil to your lower waterline, which makes the eyes look brighter and whiter. Apply waterproof mascara to your upper and lower lashes. Aim for 1-2 coats of mascara on the upper lashes and a single light coat on the bottom lashes. Put the wand at the base of your lashes, press lightly, then move it along the lashes to the tips. You can use brown or black mascara, but black provides more definition. Brown works best for men, since it defines the eyes without being too drastic. Make sure you use waterproof mascara, or it could run once you start to sweat beneath the bright stage lights. Fill in your brows with a brown pencil. For more dramatic roles, you may want to opt for black, but dark brown is a good neutral choice for everyone. Fill in any patchy areas so that your eyebrows appear firm and full. Use the pencil to enhance the natural arch of your brow, which will help to frame your face. Line your lips with a red or rosy color. Lip liner helps your lipstick stay in place and can prevent it from bleeding outside the lip line. It also gives your mouth a lot more definition than lipstick alone. Draw a firm, dark line that follows the natural shape of your lips – you don't need to go outside the lip line unless your role calls for an emphasized mouth. Avoid doing a nude lip onstage, or your mouth will look non-existent. Lip color requirements usually vary, depending on your role. Most men use a more natural shade. Check with your director if you're unsure. Fill in your lips with a matching lipstick. Follow the natural shape of your lips and fill them in with a lipstick that matches your lip liner. Choose a long-lasting formula, such as a liquid lipstick or a lip stain, since you probably won't get an opportunity to reapply during your performance. Try to avoid creamy formulas, since they don't have a lot of staying power. These can fade fast, leaving you with dark lip liner and pale lips. Set your makeup with a dusting of translucent powder. Use a fluffy kabuki brush for this, which will give you an even dusting. Dip the brush into the container of powder, then tap it on the edge of the sink or counter to get rid of the excess. Apply one layer of the powder all over your face and neck. This will “set” your makeup, and help it stay in place during your performance. If you're involved in a vigorous performance and worried about keeping your makeup in place, try misting your face with a setting spray before you apply the powder. Step back from the mirror and look at yourself. Your makeup should have an exaggerated look to combat the bright stage lighting. The audience will see you from different distances and angles. The people in the front will see you very clearly, so you want to look natural to them. The people who are in the nosebleeds must be able to see your expressions, so stage makeup will help you to accomplish this.

Wash your face thoroughly and apply a good moisturizer. Apply an oil-free foundation. Emphasize your cheekbones with blush. Apply a light eyeshadow color on your lids and under your brows. Apply a dark neutral color into the crease of your eye. Use brown or black waterproof eyeliner on the upper lash line. Apply waterproof mascara to your upper and lower lashes. Fill in your brows with a brown pencil. Line your lips with a red or rosy color. Fill in your lips with a matching lipstick. Set your makeup with a dusting of translucent powder. Step back from the mirror and look at yourself.

https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-a-Microwave-Oven

How to Choose a Microwave Oven

To choose a microwave oven, go with one that has a high wattage if you want your food to cook faster and more evenly. However, microwave ovens with a high wattage are usually pretty large, so you may want to go with a lower wattage if you don't have a lot of space for it. If you're looking for convenience, consider getting a microwave oven with specialized cooking buttons on it, like a popcorn setting or leftover setting, so there's no guesswork. Whichever microwave you decide on, always read the reviews first so you know you're getting a reliable model.

Determine the external size you want. Microwaves come in multiple sizes, usually ranging from 10x18x14in (25.4x45.7x35.6cm) (Height-Width-Depth) to 14x24x20in (35.6x61x50.8cm)(HWD). To choose the right size for you, first establish where you will place your oven. Then, consider how large your kitchen counter is and how much food you expect to be cooking. Measure the space where you plan to put your microwave prior to purchasing the appliance. Determine the internal capacity you need. The internal capacity of a microwave can range from less than 1 cubic foot to over 2 cubic feet. This will typically be listed on the box when you buy the appliance and can help you determine whether your favorite dishes will fit inside the microwave. Decide how fast you want your food to cook. Wattage is key here: higher wattage ovens typically cook food faster and more evenly than lower wattage ovens. Larger microwave ovens usually offer a higher wattage (power) than smaller ovens. Wattage is listed on the box the microwave comes in. Review your options. There are many different kinds of microwaves on the market. Learn about what each type can offer you so you can make an informed decision: Countertop microwave ovens. These take up counter space but are typically cheaper and easier to install than the other two options. Over-the-range microwave ovens. Microwaves in this category are vented to the outside and typically require installation by an electrician. On the plus side, they free up counter space. Built-in microwave ovens. These are designed to be built into a wall or surrounded by cabinetry. They are a great option if you don't have counter space, since they can be installed in a microwave drawer under the countertop and they can glide out when you need to warm your food. They are more expensive, ranging from $350-$1500, but can look more streamlined than the other types. Some countertop microwaves will have a build-in option. Set a budget. Pricing for microwave ovens can vary significantly depending on the type, size, and brand of microwave. For example, a midsized countertop microwave could cost you anywhere from $70-$500. Set a maximum for how much you're willing to spend and refrain from going over that amount. Look for deals. You can find great deals by searching for used microwaves on websites like Craigslist or eBay. Keep an eye out for yard sales as well, since people who are moving will often drop prices just to get rid of the items quickly. Some stores also offer scratch and dent appliances, which may have damage to the exterior but are often cheaper and can look and work like new. Thoroughly inspect any used microwave you are considering purchasing. Ask the seller if they can demonstrate that the microwave works, and look to buy a microwave from a seller who offers at least a 14-day return policy. Read reviews. Prior to purchasing a microwave oven, look up the models you are considering online and read reviews by other users. This will allow you to gauge the efficiency, ease of use, and longevity of the appliance at no cost to you. Look up user reviews of the specific model you're thinking of buying on Amazon. The manufacturer's website will often also feature customer reviews. Look for your must-have features. Microwave ovens offer a variety of features such as defrosting or specialized cooking buttons such as a popcorn setting or a TV dinner setting. These can take the guesswork out of your meal planning and preparation and thus can simplify the cooking process. Purchase a microwave oven with a turntable. The advantage of using this type of oven is that you don't have to stop and turn the dish while cooking. The turntable does this for you automatically, allowing your food to cook evenly. Consider a model with a metal rack. Microwaves that don't have metal racks often only heat up the top layer of food, so you end up with a dish that is half warm, half cold. A metal rack will elevate the food. The heat will then be distributed evenly around your dish, allowing all of your food to heat. With this feature, then, your food will cook more evenly.

Determine the external size you want. Determine the internal capacity you need. Decide how fast you want your food to cook. Review your options. Set a budget. Look for deals. Read reviews. Look for your must-have features. Purchase a microwave oven with a turntable. Consider a model with a metal rack.

https://www.wikihow.com/Appreciate-Yourself-More-Than-You-Do

How to Appreciate Yourself More Than You Do

To appreciate yourself more than you do, try keeping a gratitude journal and writing down five things every day that you're thankful for. For example, you might put things like witnessing a beautiful sunrise, your spouse's sense of humor, and going to the gym. You should also try to avoid comparing yourself to others, as you often only see their best side, especially on social media. Additionally, try to accept compliments, instead of brushing them off, by smiling, making eye contact, and saying “Thank you”, which will make you more confident.

Appreciate your strengths (and your weaknesses). It can be easy to appreciate your strengths — your sense of humor, or generosity, or analytical skills, for example. And it is also easy to get down on yourself for having various personality traits you perceive as weaknesses — maybe you are quick to anger or always running late, for example. Instead of getting down on yourself for your weaknesses try instead to reframe them as something positive — as traits that make you uniquely you. Make a list of all your strengths. Include the big ones that are huge components of your personality, like your patience, all the way down to the small things you are good at, like juggling or making amazing oatmeal cookies. Read the list and see how many great qualities you contribute to the world! Now make a list of all your weaknesses. Write down things you don't like about your personality or you feel are negative traits. Look at your list of weaknesses. Think about ways you could see those weaknesses as positives. For example, say one of your weaknesses is that you think you talk too much. You could reframe this to a positive as, “It's easy for me to express my opinion.” “I'm too sensitive” could be reframed as, “I have empathy for others.” Stay true to yourself. To appreciate and accept yourself, it is important to know who you are. It may be helpful to identify your personal values. Knowing what is important to you and making decisions based on your personal values helps you be authentic and appreciate your true self. Make sure your values are your own and you are not simply taking on the values of your friends or family. Figure out what is important to you. Explore which values are important to you and write them down. A concrete list of your values may help you recognize when you are being inauthentic to yourself and your values. You may feel like other people may not like you if they see the “real” you. It may be helpful for you to explore these feelings with a therapist or by writing in a journal. Determine when you feel most yourself and when you feel the need to pretend to be someone else, and explore the differences between those situations. For example, if you feel you cannot be yourself around certain friends or family, perhaps because you fear being made fun of, then it it may be a sign that you fear rejection about revealing your true self. The first step to changing your behavior is noticing when you do it. Pay attention and later, spend some time reflecting on what triggered your behavior in a particular situation. It may take a while for you to feel comfortable enough to be your authentic self around other people. Don't be too hard on yourself if you can't do it right away. Avoid comparisons. Comparing yourself to others can leave you feeling discouraged and judgmental. Remember, you generally see only a piece of others' everyday lives (particularly on social media). Comparing yourself to someone else's “highlight reel” will only set you up for disappointment and feeling bad about yourself. Measure your growth by comparing yourself to who you were in the past instead. For example, think about your life 10 years ago. Has it changed? Have you acquired new skills, new relationships, or left dysfunctional life patterns behind? If you feel you have stagnated, take some steps to make some positive changes in your life. You can also look at your life now and imagine what you would like it to look like five or 10 years in the future. If you dream of getting a promotion at work in a few years, for example, what can you do today to start making progress towards your goals. Working toward a goal can help you to feel more self-worth and in control of your life. Take risks. If you are not feeling great about yourself, pushing yourself outside of your comfort zone may sound like the last thing you want to do. But taking a risk — whether it's trying a new activity , asking someone on a date , or trying a new recipe for dinner — can help you learn more about what you are capable of achieving. Tap into the skills, knowledge, and tenacity you may not have even known was there — most of the time, when faced with a challenge, we can rise to the occasion to tackle it. Seeing what you're capable of can help you appreciate yourself more and gain a new perspective of yourself. Being challenged and seeing how you can overcome those challenges can help you build a greater appreciation for yourself. You may be worried that if things do not go as planned, this will cause you to feel worse about yourself. But it actually presents another opportunity for you to step up — trying again after a failure shows great character and is something you can really appreciate about yourself. Keep a gratitude journal. Practice focusing on the positive in your life by keeping a gratitude journal. Keeping your eyes peeled for the blessings in your life helps you better appreciate all you are, and all you have been given. For example, you could decide to look for five things in your life every day, or every week, for which you are thankful and appreciative. This might include your gratitude for a particular relationship, nature, or even something small like a conversation with your neighbor. There are numerous smartphone apps you can download where you can record your thoughts. They may also have reminders that can help you turn this into a daily habit. An entry in a gratitude journal might look like: “Today I am grateful for the beautiful sunrise, my coworker bringing donuts, listening to my daughter laugh with her friends, my wife's sense of humor, and getting to the gym.” Consider downloading a gratitude journal app that can remind you to record all the things for which you are thankful. Be content with less. Don't look to material things to help you appreciate yourself. Make an effort to avoid purchasing an item that you think will help you feel better about yourself — most of the time, things cannot make us happier long-term. Look for fulfillment within yourself and having meaningful relationships with others instead. Being content with all that you already have helps gets you out of a competitive, if-only-I-had-this mindset that prevents you from appreciating who you are at the present moment. Try telling yourself, “This new thing will not make me better. I already am enough and have enough.” It's okay to pamper yourself, but try pampering yourself with experiences rather than items. For example, take a vacation instead of buying something expensive that costs the same amount. Show yourself compassion. Often people are much harder on themselves than they would ever be on someone else — try to treat yourself with the same compassion you would show a friend. If you catch yourself thinking something negative about yourself, stop and consider if you would ever say those things to a loved one. Self-compassion includes your self-talk as well as tending to physical, mental, and emotional self-care. Don't call yourself names or beat yourself up for mistakes. If you catch yourself doing so or engaging in any other forms of negative self-talk, stop an re-evaluate. For example, “No, I'm not stupid for forgetting about that meeting. I had a busy morning and was rushing around.” Instead of beating yourself up, figure out something you could do to do better next time. For example, if you missed your meeting because you were rushing around that morning, you could say, “I'll start waking up 15 minutes earlier so I am less rushed in the morning. I'll also put reminders in my phone as soon as I know about an event.” Stay in the moment. Being mindful and present helps you stay out of judgment of yourself and others. Staying present or mindful means staying focused on your breathing, the sounds and sights and smells around you, and observing thoughts without judgement. The result of this practice reduces brain chatter, which will help reduce any negative self-talk you may have. Staying present helps you stay peaceful. Instead of focusing on all the things you need to do (or haven't done), you focus on the moment and your breath. Everything else that isn't connected to the moment (your feelings, your to-do list, your worries) can be exhaled out with your breath. This takes practice, so don't become too frustrated if you don't get the hang of it right away. Stick with it! Volunteer. A great way to give yourself a feeling of accomplishment and a sense of self-worth is to serve others through a volunteer organization. If you are working with less fortunate populations, it will also help give you some perspective on your life and help you count your blessings. Volunteering can give you plenty of ways to help you appreciate yourself: Studies have shown it to lower depression, as well as increase your happiness, satisfaction with your life, self-esteem, and your sense of control over life. Volunteer with an organization whose vision you support. Figure out how your skill set can benefit their mission. Utilizing your skills to help those in need will help you to appreciate your talents and experience. For example, you could say, “I'm interested in volunteering for your organization. I have an accounting background, and was wondering how we might be able to incorporate my skills into a volunteer role.” Give to charity. If you need a self-appreciation boost, try donating money to a favorite charity. Studies have found that giving money to others will make you feel happier and better about yourself than if you were to spend the money on yourself instead. If you do not have a favorite charity, considering giving to someone. You could send a friend who is struggling a gift card, pay for a stranger's coffee, or buy breakfast for a homeless person. These acts of kindness will make you feel good about yourself, and help someone else out, too. See the good in other people. Looking for others' positive characteristics and actions will help you better appreciate them and, in turn, help you better appreciate yourself. The good you see in others is also in you. Acknowledge other people's good intentions, abilities, and traits. You could say, “Susanna, I love how patient you are with kids. You have such a good heart with them, and it shows. All the kids in the neighborhood just love you!” Let yourself be vulnerable. Talk to people you trust about your feelings or other things that make you feel vulnerable. Chances are, the person you talk to will be able to relate to your feelings and may be able to offer you some understanding. You may feel less alone, and your negative feelings about yourself may not feel so difficult to manage when you realize that many people struggle with the same insecurities. Expressing any vulnerable feelings will help you feel more empowered and less afraid. You could say something like, “It's hard for me to talk about how lonely I feel sometimes, because I don't hear other people struggling with this like I think I do. Do you ever feel like that?” Show others how you want to be treated. People will treat you by the standards you set. If you don't appreciate yourself, other people will see that in your behavior and treat you accordingly. Set boundaries with others and enforce your being treated with respect. Healthy boundaries allow you to maintain your self-esteem and self-respect. Setting boundaries requires firm, clear communication. For example, if your friend is routinely late when you get together, you could say, “John, it seems like every time we get together you are always about a half hour late. If you are running late, please text me and let me know.” Accept compliments. Be gracious when someone pays you a compliment. Smile genuinely, make eye contact, and say “Thank you!” Being able to accept a compliment shows that you value and have confidence in yourself. For example, say someone compliments you on your shirt. You could say, “Thank you! It's one of my favorites!” instead of, “Oh, this old thing is falling apart. I wear it all the time.” Look for role models. Find other people in your life or in the public eye that you see as people who appreciate themselves and their gifts to the world. What do they do that makes them seem as though they appreciate themselves? Watch them and apply those behaviors to your own life. Ask a friend who has these qualities how they appreciate themselves. You could say, “You seem to really value yourself. What kinds of things do you do in your life to help you appreciate yourself?” If you admire a politician or celebrity, for example, consider taping their picture somewhere where you will see it regularly (like by your computer or on your refrigerator), to remind you that you want to imitate their self-confidence and self-worth.

Appreciate your strengths (and your weaknesses). Stay true to yourself. Avoid comparisons. Take risks. Keep a gratitude journal. Be content with less. Show yourself compassion. Stay in the moment. Volunteer. Give to charity. See the good in other people. Let yourself be vulnerable. Show others how you want to be treated. Accept compliments. Look for role models.

https://www.wikihow.com/Improve-Attention-to-Detail

How to Improve Attention to Detail

To improve your attention to detail, train your brain with attention-building exercises, like memory cards, “what's wrong with this picture” puzzles, and math problems. You can also improve your attention to detail in your day-to-day life by paying close attention to images, then trying to remember as many details as you can. For example, try looking at an advertisement and then closing your eyes and seeing how much of it you can remember.

Get organized. You will need to have organization in your life to have any hope of paying attention to the small things. This means having organization in your work or school life by keeping track of appointments and tasks that need to be accomplished so that you aren't surprised when it's time to turn them in. Make lists. Lists are one really useful way to be organized and to make sure that you know when and how everything needs to come together. You'll be less likely to lose track of the details when you have them written out and kept somewhere that you see every day (a lost list is about as useful as a lead balloon). Have a long-term list and a short-term (weekly or daily) list so that you are able to plan for things in advance. When the items on the long-term list come up, put them on your short-term list, but this way you won't be surprised by anything in your schedule. Once you've completed an item on your list, check it off. That way you'll know that you actually did do it and you won't be in a dither trying to remember whether you've completed each step of a certain list item. Keep to a specific schedule. If you're running around willy nilly and each day is a different mess of times and items, try to sort it into a routine that follows the same general rhythm. Your brain will be quicker to notice when you've dropped the ball on a detail than when each day is a hodgepodge of different things. Make sure that you go to bed and get up at the same times each day. For example, you go to bed at 10:30 pm every night and get up at 7:30 am every morning. This way your body will be in a single routine and you'll be getting enough sleep so that your memory will be working better anyway. Limit distractions. Distractions come in a variety of forms: your family, your friends, that annoying coworker who won't stop talking, everything ever on the internet, even being hungry. When you're distracted and you're trying to pay attention to the details of a project or your homework, you're not going to be able to recall things as easily and you're more likely to forget the details. Try to work in an area that is conducive to focus; not too hot, with good lighting and fewer people coming in and out (for school, a nice corner in the library is usually a good choice; at work, do your best in your office or cubicle to be cool and well-lit). Put your phone on silent and tell your friends and family members not to call you when you're working unless it's an emergency. If you're working at home, avoid working in your bed and try to have a designated, organized workspace. For your annoying coworker, if you can keep your door closed do that, otherwise simply say to them "I'd love to catch up, but I really have to get this project finished. I'll come by and chat with you in a bit." Or you can tell them to go away, depending on what your relationship with them and your co-workers is like. Don't multitask. Multitasking spreads your attention out over a variety of items instead of focusing it on one specific item, which means that you end up unable to give full attention to each item and you won't be able to get all the details in order. Using the list that you've drawn up, you can go from project to project, giving each your full attention without checking your phone and your Facebook and planning what you're going to eat for dinner. If you find yourself doing things like planning for dinner or wondering whether you've paid your bills, write down your idea or concern (you can add it to your list) and return to the project you're supposed to be working on. This way you know that you will remember to take care of the concern and you don't have to obsess over it. Sometimes you have to multitask, or you have to conserve your energy by letting some of the details of a project slip because you have so much to do. Focus your attention on the most important projects so that they get your attention to details, while giving less attention to the less important projects. Get exercise. Exercise helps improve your memory and your concentration abilities while also being good for your whole body. To help improve your attention to detail and to keep your memory strong, you'll want to engage in at least 30 minutes of exercise each day. Your exercise routine could be as simple as walking to the grocery store after work, or biking to and from work (remember to bring your work clothes with you in case of rain or mud). You could do 30 minutes of yoga, or go for a run, or even just put on some music and dance. Take breaks. A good way to keep your brain sharp and willing to focus on the smaller details is to allow it to take breaks. Make sure that you schedule them around the same time each day and try for 10 to 15 minutes each. This will give your brain a chance to relax in time for the next project. A break can be something as simple as stretching and taking a short walk around your office, or going for coffee down the street. When you find that you are getting really distracted or sleepy, this is a good time to find a place to do a little exercise, like jumping jacks, to get the blood flowing. Practice using memory cards. There are good ways to practice paying attention to the details so that your brain stays sharp and engaged. One of these ways is by using memory cards. You'll gather a group of pairs (start small, maybe 8-10 pairs) and place them face side down. Flip two over, look at them, and turn them face side down once more. Each time you find a pair, remove it from the game. Your ability to remember where the cards are on the table will help you to pay attention to the details in all the different parts of your life. You can also play this game with a friend (especially once you're really good and you can show off your impressive skills!). Use "what's wrong with this picture" puzzles. These can be found in any children's magazine ever. The child-level ones are pretty easy, but you can easily find more difficult puzzles. The more you practice these puzzles the better you'll find that you are paying attention to other details. Hone your math skills. Mathematics is a subject that requires a lot of attention to detail (after all, if you get one number wrong the whole answer ends up being wrong) and are a great way to improve your attention to detail. Do things like balancing your budget by hand. Pay close attention to the numbers and make sure to double check your work. Memorize an image. Look closely at a scene (you can do this anywhere: at work, on the bus, at a coffee shop) and close your eyes. Recall as many details about the scene as you possibly can. The more you practice the better and more attentive to the details you'll become. Another easy way to do this is with an unfamiliar photograph. Look at it for a couple seconds and then flip the photograph over. Recall as many of the details as you can. Repeat this exercise with a different photograph each time. Memory sketches are similar to the memorizing an image exercise. Look at a scene for about a minute and then turn away. From memory, sketch what you saw in the scene, or make a list of the things you saw. When you've finished, compare what you saw with what was actually there. Learn to meditate. Meditation is something that is incredibly useful for a wide variety of things. It can help you with your physical health, your mental health, and it can help you with your memory and your attention to detail by calming your mind and by reducing your stress (it helps put your brain on more positive neuro-pathways). Find somewhere quiet to sit for about 15 minutes each day (when you're more advanced at meditation you can do it anywhere: at your desk at work, on the bus, etc, but it's good to start somewhere without many distractions). Close your eyes and take deep breaths all the way down into your belly. Focus on your breathing. When you find distracting thoughts coming into your head, acknowledge them but do not focus on them. Return to your breathing by saying to yourself "Breathe in, breathe out."

Get organized. Make lists. Keep to a specific schedule. Limit distractions. Don't multitask. Get exercise. Take breaks. Practice using memory cards. Use "what's wrong with this picture" puzzles. Hone your math skills. Memorize an image. Learn to meditate.

https://www.wikihow.com/Write-an-Outline

How to Write an Outline

The easiest way to write an outline is to gather all of your supporting materials, like quotes, statistics, or ideas, before getting started. Next, go over your materials and take notes, grouping similar ideas together. Then, organize your ideas into subtopics and use your materials to provide at least two supporting points per subtopic. Be sure to keep your outline concise and clear, since you'll have to refer to it later!

Decide if you will write your outline by hand or type it. If you're preparing your outline just for your own use, choose what works best for you. If you're preparing your outline for an assignment, follow your instructor's directions. Some people process their ideas better when they write them down. Additionally, you can easily draw diagrams or examples, which might help you conceptualize the subject. However, it might take longer to write out your outline, and it won't be as neat. Typing your outline might be easier if your notes are already typed on the computer, as you can just copy and paste them into your outline. Copying and pasting also allows you to easily rearrange your sections, if necessary. Also, it will be easier to copy and paste information from your outline into your paper if you type your outline. On the other hand, it's harder to jot down notes in the margins or draw out organizational diagrams. Narrow down your topic. Outlines help you organize your thoughts, ideas, or research regarding a topic. Without a main topic, your outline has no purpose. Your topic may be based on an assignment or could stem from a personal goal. If you're working on a creative project, such as a novel, identify your concept, genre, or premise. Then, allow the outlining process to help you structure your work. It's okay if your topic is somewhat broad when you first start, but you should have a direction. For example, your history paper topic could be French life during the German occupation of France in World War II. As you write your outline, you might narrow this down to the resistance fighters called maquisards. Identify the purpose of your outline, such as inform, entertain or reflect. Think about what you hope to accomplish with your outline. Will you complete an essay assignment? Write a novel? Give a speech? This allows you to determine what that essay, book, or speech will do for the reader. Typically, the purpose could be to inform the reader, entertain the reader or share the writer's reflections with the reader. Know your intended audience. In some cases, you'll be writing an outline as a class or work assignment. However, many times you are preparing them for yourself, either to help you complete an assignment or to help you accomplish a goal. If the outline is for school or work, you need to follow the formatting instructions and present your ideas in a way that's understandable to others. For a school assignment, review the assignment sheet or talk to your instructor. If the outline is for work, use an existing outline as a model for yours. If you are the only person who will see the outline, you can choose formatting that works for you. For example, you might write your outline in shorthand. Assemble your notes, research or supporting materials, if applicable. In many cases, you'll be incorporating information you gathered through research, note taking, or personal experience. It's important to review this information before you start your outline because you'll be pulling your points and subpoints from it. You might incorporate some of the following: Paraphrased ideas Quotes Statistics Historical facts Brainstorm to identify your argument or main ideas. Jot down your ideas, important bits of research, and any questions you might want answered. For a creative project, you might write down scene ideas or plot points. Write down everything you might include in your outline. You can always eliminate ideas later! Here are some ways to organize your thoughts: Freewrite as ideas come to you. Create a mind map. Write your thoughts on index cards. Develop a thesis or controlling idea for your outline. In most cases, this will be the thesis you use to complete the final product, such as an essay. However, it's okay to use a general controlling idea or premise when outlining for a novel or study guide. Your thesis will help guide your outline as you create sections and subsections organizing your information. For example, you may be writing a paper about policy change. Your thesis might read, “Policy makers should take an incremental approach when making policy changes to reduce conflict, allow adjustments, and foster compromise.” Each of the 3 reasons listed in your thesis will become its own main point in your outline. Write an alphanumeric outline for the easy approach. Although you might not recognize the name, most outlines follow the alphanumeric format. Each level of your outline will be organized using a letter or number. Here's how an alphanumeric outline is organized, moving from main ideas to subpoints : Roman Numerals - I, II, III, IV, V Capitalized Letters - A, B, C Arabic Numerals - 1, 2, 3 Lowercase Letters - a, b, c Arabic Numerals in Parentheses - (1), (2), (3) Make a decimal outline to highlight the relationship between ideas. A decimal outline looks very similar to an alphanumeric outline. However, a decimal outline only uses numbers, and each sublevel is set off with decimals. This allows you to illustrate that each sublevel is a part of a larger argument. Here's how it might look: 1.0 - Incremental policy change fosters compromise 1.1 - Both sides influence the policy 1.1.1 - Each side presents a case before the vote 1.1.2 - Citizens voice their opinion 1.2 - Neither side gets everything they want Decide if you want to write full sentences or short phrases. Most outlines include short phrases, which are also called topic outlines. However, using full sentences can help you better understand your ideas. If you're writing a paper based on your outline, then full sentences will give you a head start on your final paper. You might use short phrases to quickly organize your ideas, to outline a speech, or to create an outline that's just for you. You might use full sentences to make it easier to write a final paper, to make a good study guide, or to fulfill the requirements of an assignment. Group your ideas together. Review your brainstorming, placing related ideas in the same group. It's okay if you have a lot of information at first. You can always eliminate ideas you realize are unnecessary. These groups will become main points, so narrow your groups down until you have your desired number of main points. For an essay or speech, that often means 3, but a creative piece may have more. If you jotted down your ideas or made a mind map, use different colored highlighters to identify ideas that belong in the same group. Sort your index cards, if you used them to brainstorm. Put cards with related ideas together. For example, you can put them in stacks, or you can line your cards out in rows to make them easier to read. Put each group in order from broad ideas to specific details. Broad ideas are more likely to be your main points, while details are the bits of information you will use to support those ideas. Depending on the purpose of your outline, you may have many subpoints and supporting details. However, aim to have at least 2-3 subpoints and 2-3 supporting details for each main idea. For example, your main point might be that Mary Shelley's Frankenstein champions emotion over reason. Your subpoints might be that Victor Frankenstein is restored by nature and that his scientific efforts create a monster. As supporting details, you might include quotes from the book. If you're writing a story or presenting a historical argument, a chronological order makes sense. For an essay or speech, pick the subtopic with the most supporting materials, and lead with this argument. From there, order your major subtopics so each one naturally flows into the next. Your broad ideas should connect back to your thesis or controlling idea. If they don't, rewrite your thesis to reflect the main ideas you're putting into your outline. Outline your introduction as the first main point for a speech or essay. You can use either phrases or full sentences, depending on which you chose to use. Some people prefer to write out their introduction, which is also okay. Here are the points you need in your introduction: Hook to grab the audience 1-2 general statements about your topic Thesis Create your body headings, if you haven’t already. The outline headings are your main points. You'll label these headings with Roman Numerals for an alphanumeric outline (I, II, III) or with Arabic Numerals for a decimal outline (1.0, 2.0, 3.0). If you're writing an essay, this would be the body of your essay. These ideas should be drawn directly from your thesis or controlling idea. For example, your outline heading for the main point presented above would look like this: Phrase outline: II. Frankenstein champions emotion over reason Full sentence outline: II. In Frankenstein , Mary Shelley champions the use of emotion over reason. Write at least 2 subpoints for each main idea. Your subpoints are the second level of your outline, so you'll label them as A, B, or C for an alphanumeric outline or to 1 decimal place for a decimal outline (1.1, 1.2). These are the ideas that further explain your main point. In an essay, they might be your reasons for making your argument. In a creative work, they might be parts of your plot point. Depending on the purpose of your outline, you might have more subpoints. For example, a novel may have many subpoints. Similarly, a study guide will likely have several subpoints, as well. Add at least 2 supporting details for each subpoint. Supporting details back up or illustrate the point you're making. They might include direct quotes, statistics, facts, or examples. This is the third level of your outline, so you'll use Arabic Numerals for your alphanumeric outline (1, 2, 3). For a decimal outline, you'll go to 2 decimal places (1.1.2). In an essay, this is often where you “prove” your argument. For a creative work, you might include essential details you must include in that scene, such as an internal conflict in your main character. Similar to subpoints, you may have more supporting details, depending on your purpose. A novel or study guide will likely have more supporting details. Include more layers of your outline, if necessary. Most basic outlines will include 3 layers, but you may need more. If this is the case, you can continue creating sublevels using the formatting structure you chose, either alphanumeric or decimal. For example, you might need more layers to provide more details. In the Frankenstein example above, you might include a 4th layer to write out your commentary about the quotes you used to support your point. Here's how you would continue your layering: Alphanumeric: Roman Numeral Capital Letter Arabic Numeral Lowercase Letter Arabic Numeral in Parentheses Decimal: 1.0 1.1 1.1.1 1.1.1.1 Outline your conclusion, if you’re writing an essay or speech. Don't expect to write out your final conclusion, as it will be much easier to write it once you've completed the essay or speech. However, it's a good idea to start organizing your thoughts. Your subpoints might include the following: Restate your thesis. 1-2 summarizing sentences. Write a concluding statement. Read over your outline to make sure you’ve achieved your purpose. Your outline should relate back to your thesis or main idea, address the purpose you set out to achieve and reflect your audience. If it doesn't, you may need to revise your outline. This also gives you a chance to look for missing parts or ideas that aren't fully fleshed. If you see areas that leave questions unanswered, it's best to fill in those gaps in information. Revise your outline if ideas are missing or not fleshed out. In some cases, you may need to add more information, such as additional supporting details. The revision process allows you to do that. You might also want to rewrite sentences or phrases to make your ideas clearer. If you are making an outline for yourself, you might not worry about this. Edit your outline if you’re turning it in for an assignment. Check for typos, grammatical errors, and formatting flaws. This will ensure you get full credit for your work. Keep in mind that it's okay to have sentence fragments if you're making a phrase outline. It's a good idea to have someone else check it for errors, as it's often hard to recognize errors in your own work. While you edit your outline, refer back to your assignment sheet or rubric to make sure you've completely fulfilled the assignment. If not, go back and correct the areas that are lacking. Add layers if necessary. If you need to add additional sub-layers, use lowercase Roman numerals (i, ii, iii, iv, etc.), then lowercase letters (a, b, c, d, etc.) and then finally switch to numbers again (1, 2, 3, 4, etc.). In most cases, three or four layers will be enough. Try to combine points first before you add a fifth. You can use more layers if you want to include more information. You might also include additional layers for a long creative work or a detailed study guide.

Decide if you will write your outline by hand or type it. Narrow down your topic. Identify the purpose of your outline, such as inform, entertain or reflect. Know your intended audience. Assemble your notes, research or supporting materials, if applicable. Brainstorm to identify your argument or main ideas. Develop a thesis or controlling idea for your outline. Write an alphanumeric outline for the easy approach. Make a decimal outline to highlight the relationship between ideas. Decide if you want to write full sentences or short phrases. Group your ideas together. Put each group in order from broad ideas to specific details. Outline your introduction as the first main point for a speech or essay. Create your body headings, if you haven’t already. Write at least 2 subpoints for each main idea. Add at least 2 supporting details for each subpoint. Include more layers of your outline, if necessary. Outline your conclusion, if you’re writing an essay or speech. Read over your outline to make sure you’ve achieved your purpose. Revise your outline if ideas are missing or not fleshed out. Edit your outline if you’re turning it in for an assignment. Add layers if necessary.

https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-White-Rice

How to Cook White Rice

To cook white rice, start by putting equal parts white rice and water in a pot. If you want to give the rice more flavor, add some salt and butter to the pot as well. Then, bring the pot to a boil. Once the water starts boiling, cover the pot and reduce the heat to low. Let the white rice simmer for 20 minutes, or until all of the water in the pot has disappeared. Finally, take the pot off the burner and let the rice sit, covered, for 15-20 minutes before serving.

Rinse 1 cup (225 g) of rice under cool, running water. Pour the rice into a fine, mesh strainer, then hold the strainer under cool, running water. Gently sift the rice with clean hands so that every grain gets rinsed off. Keep rinsing and sifting the rice until the water runs clear. You don't have to dry the rice off, but it would be a good idea to shake it to dislodge any excess water. You can cook however much rice you want, as long as you adjust the ratio of rice-to-water accordingly. Combine the water and rinsed rice in a 2  qt (1.9 L) pot. Pour the water into the pot first, then add the rice. Do not stir the rice and water. Instead, gently swirl the pot to mix them together. How much water you use depends on what type of rice you are cooking: Short-grained: use 1 cup (240 mL) of water for every 1 cup (225 g) of rice. Long-grained: use 1 ⁄ 4 cups (300 mL) of water for every 1 cup (225 g) of rice. Add some salt and butter, if desired, and bring the rice to a boil. Plan on using 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt and 1 tablespoon (15 g) of unsalted butter for every 1 cup (225 g) of rice. Once you have everything in the pot, bring the water to a boil over high heat. The salt and butter are there only for flavor. Do not stir the rice. Swirl the pot gently to combine everything instead. Cover the pot and simmer the rice for 18 to 20 minutes. Place a tight-fitting lid on top of the pot, then reduce the heat to low or medium-low. Wait for the water to reduce to a simmer, then set the timer for 18 minutes. Check the rice; if it's not done, cook it for another 1 to 2 minutes. The rice is ready when the water disappears. Consider using a glass lid. This way, you'll be able to tell when the water is gone. Take the rice off the burner and let it sit, covered, for 15 to 20 minutes. If there's a lot of condensation on the lid, take the lid off and place a tea towel over the pot. Put the lid back on the pot, over the towel, and wait 15 to 20 minutes. This prevents water from dripping back onto the rice. You need to let the rice rest, because if you don't, it won't finish cooking evenly; the bottom will be mushy and the top will dry. Fluff the rice with a fork before you serve it. Serve the rice straight from the pot, or transfer it into a serving bowl instead. Store any leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge. Eat it within 5 days. Rinse 1 cup (225 g) of rice with cool water. Place the rice into a fine, mesh strainer, then hold the strainer under cool, running water. Gently sift the rice with your fingers until the water runs clear. You can use less rice if you want, but don't use more than 1 cup (225 g) for this method. Combine the rice and water in a 1 1⁄2  qt (1.4 L) baking dish. Use 2 cups (470 mL) of water, regardless of the type of rice you are cooking (long, medium, or short grain ). This sounds like a large dish for such as small amount of rice, but the rice will expand as you cook it. For extra flavor, you could add 1/8 teaspoon of salt. If you used less rice, adjust your water accordingly. You'll need twice as much water as rice. Microwave the rice, uncovered, on HIGH for 10 minutes. Check your microwave to ensure that the power is set to "high." Next, place the rice into the microwave, and cook it for 10 minutes. Do not cover it. The rice is ready when you see tiny steam holes in it. If you don't see steam holes in the rice, continue to cook it at 1-minute intervals until you do. Cover the rice with a lid or plastic wrap, then cook it for 4 minutes. Use a potholder or oven mitts to take the dish out of the microwave. Cover the dish with its matching lid or a sheet of plastic wrap, then put it back into the microwave. Cook the rice on high for 4 minutes. Make sure that the lid is microwave-safe. If it isn't, use plastic wrap. Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish cooking on a gentler heat. It is similar to how you'd let rice rest after cooking it on the stove. If the rice isn't done after these 5 minutes, cook it at 1-minute intervals until it is done. Remove the cover, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve it. Be very careful when removing the lid or plastic wrap, as there will be lots of steam. Once you have the cover off, fluff the rice with a fork. Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container and eat them within 5 days. Rinse 1 cup (225 g) of rice in a strainer with cool water. Use your hands to gently sift the rice so that every grain gets rinsed off. Keep doing this until the water runs clear. You may be able to cook more or less rice, but this may affect the cooking time. Place the rice and 1 cup (240 mL) of water into a rice cooker. For extra flavor, stir in 1/2 teaspoon of salt. If possible, double-check the manual for your rice cooker. Some rice cookers require a different ratio of rice-to-water. If your rice cooker requires a different ratio of rice-to-water, then use that instead. Turn the rice cooker on and let it cook until it turns off. Simple rice cookers typically have an on/off switch, but fancier rice cookers may have multiple cooking options. In this case, you'll need to select the correct cooking option before it starts cooking the rice. Which cooking option you select depends on the type of rice cooker you have as well as the type of rice you are using: short, medium, or long grain. Leave the rice in the rice cooker, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the steam to escape from the cooker at a slower rate, resulting in fluffier rice. If you don't do this, the grains may appear mushy, sticky, or clumpy. Do not take the lid off. If you do, the steam will escape too fast and ruin the texture of the rice. Use a rice paddle or a rubber spatula to serve the rice. Don't use anything made from metal, or you'll scratch the coating inside the rice cooker. Serve the rice straight from the rice cooker, or put it into a serving bowl instead. Place any leftovers into an airtight container. Keep them in the fridge and eat them within 5 days. Be sure to clean out your rice cooker afterwards with a damp cloth.

Rinse 1 cup (225 g) of rice under cool, running water. Combine the water and rinsed rice in a 2  qt (1.9 L) pot. Add some salt and butter, if desired, and bring the rice to a boil. Cover the pot and simmer the rice for 18 to 20 minutes. Take the rice off the burner and let it sit, covered, for 15 to 20 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before you serve it. Rinse 1 cup (225 g) of rice with cool water. Combine the rice and water in a 1 1⁄2  qt (1.4 L) baking dish. Microwave the rice, uncovered, on HIGH for 10 minutes. Cover the rice with a lid or plastic wrap, then cook it for 4 minutes. Let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Remove the cover, fluff the rice with a fork, and serve it. Rinse 1 cup (225 g) of rice in a strainer with cool water. Place the rice and 1 cup (240 mL) of water into a rice cooker. Turn the rice cooker on and let it cook until it turns off. Leave the rice in the rice cooker, covered, for 10 to 15 minutes. Use a rice paddle or a rubber spatula to serve the rice.

https://www.wikihow.life/Wash-Feather-Pillows

How to Wash Feather Pillows

To wash feather pillows, put two pillows in the washer to balance the machine and add some liquid laundry detergent. Put in less detergent than you would normally use and run the machine on the delicate cycle. Use hot water to kill dust mites or cool water to ensure the feathers are not damaged. After your pillows are washed, use towels to remove excess water from the pillows and then dry them on low or no heat, fluffing them after each cycle until they are dry.

Take the pillow out of the pillowcase. If the pillow is inside a pillow protector (a zippered, padded pillowcase), take it out of that as well. Check the pillow for any rips or holes. Be sure to check along the seams. If there are any rips or tears, you will need to sew them back up. Put two pillows into the washing machine. This will help things balanced inside the washer. If you are unable to fit the pillows in the drum, squeeze them first to get the air out. Try not to use a top-loading washer, as the agitator may damage the pillows. If you do not have a front-loading washer, consider visiting a Laundromat; they should have one available that you can use. If you must use a top-loading washing machine, put the pillows in vertically instead of horizontally. That way, they won't get tangled in the agitator. Pour a low-sudsing laundry detergent into the detergent compartment. Use less detergent than you normally would. This will prevent any buildup or residue. Also, try to use liquid detergent instead of powder one. Powder detergent is more likely to cause buildup and residue. This can lead to skin irritations and allergies. Pillows are bulky, so they do not rinse out well. The less soap you use, the less you will have to rinse them. Set your washing machine to the delicate cycle. If you can, try to use hot water. This will help kill any dust mites that might be living inside your pillow. Keep in mind, however, that hot water may also damage the feathers. If you are worried about this, use warm or cool water instead. Consider using an extra rinse and spin cycles. This will help get any soap residue out. The extra spin cycle will help get rid of any excess moisture. Squish the water out of the pillows using a towel. Place the pillow between two towels, and press down on it. The towels will help soak up any extra water. Repeat this step for the other pillow. Do not wring or twist the pillows. Put the feather pillows into the dryer. Use a delicate cycle, with either a low-heat or no-heat setting. Using low-heat will help the pillows dry faster, but it may damage the feathers inside. Using the no-heat or air-only cycle may take longer (and two to three cycles), but it will be the safest for the feathers. Be sure to fluff the pillow between cycles. Do this by taking it out of the dryer and beating it. This will also help break up any clumps inside the pillow. If you are using a low-heat setting, consider using the air-only setting towards the end of the cycle. This will help keep the pillows from overheating and getting ruined. Add some dryer balls into the dryer to keep the pillows fluffy. If you do not have any dryer balls, you can use some clean tennis/canvas shoes instead; be sure to put them inside a clean pillowcase first, however. You can also stuff a tennis balls into a clean sock. This will help keep the pillow fluffy as it is drying. You can also add a thick towel into the dryer. This will help soak up any water that might be left in the pillow. Fluff the pillow once you take it out of the dryer. Even with dryer balls, there may still be some clumps inside the pillow. Hold the pillow by two corners and shake it up and down for a few minutes. Repeat this step for the other side. Cover the pillows with clean pillowcases once they are dry. Do not use your pillows if they are still damp. Doing so can lead to rot and mildew. Add 1 cup (240 milliliters) of hydrogen peroxide and ½ cup (120 milliliters) of white vinegar to whiten yellowed pillows. Set the washing machine to a "soak" cycle. Add the hydrogen peroxide and white vinegar directly into the drum. Once the soak cycle has finished, add the detergent. Use ¼ to ½ cup (45 to 90 grams) of baking soda to get rid of smells. Use ¼ cup (45 grams) if you have a front-loading washer, and ½ cup (90 grams) if you have a top-loading one. Add it directly to your detergent. Baking soda may also help get rid of stains. Use ½ to 1 cup (120 to 240 milliliters) of white vinegar to get rid of mold and mildew. Add it into the detergent compartment. White vinegar may also help get rid of smells. Try adding a few drops of essential oil into the rise cycle. This will give the pillow a nice, subtle scent. Try something soothing, such as lavender, rosemary, or vanilla. Think about using pillow protectors. These are padded pillowcases that you put over the pillow. You can then put a fabric pillowcase over these. Pillow protectors will help keep the pillow clean longer, and keep it from getting stained. Set musty-smelling pillows out in the sun. If your pillow still smells musty, leave it out in the sun for a few hours. The sunlight, heat, and fresh air will help kill any odor-causing bacteria. It may also make your pillow smell fresher.

Take the pillow out of the pillowcase. Check the pillow for any rips or holes. Put two pillows into the washing machine. Pour a low-sudsing laundry detergent into the detergent compartment. Set your washing machine to the delicate cycle. Consider using an extra rinse and spin cycles. Squish the water out of the pillows using a towel. Put the feather pillows into the dryer. Add some dryer balls into the dryer to keep the pillows fluffy. Fluff the pillow once you take it out of the dryer. Cover the pillows with clean pillowcases once they are dry. Add 1 cup (240 milliliters) of hydrogen peroxide and ½ cup (120 milliliters) of white vinegar to whiten yellowed pillows. Use ¼ to ½ cup (45 to 90 grams) of baking soda to get rid of smells. Use ½ to 1 cup (120 to 240 milliliters) of white vinegar to get rid of mold and mildew. Try adding a few drops of essential oil into the rise cycle. Think about using pillow protectors. Set musty-smelling pillows out in the sun.

https://www.wikihow.com/Smile-Naturally

How to Smile Naturally

To smile naturally, use your eyes in addition to your mouth, since a genuine smile engages all the muscles in your face. Practice your smile in front of the mirror, looking out for small crinkles around your eyes. Instead of saying “cheese”, say a word that ends in an “ah” sound, which will make you open your mouth slightly while raising your cheekbones. To get in the mood to smile, try thinking about a funny joke, a fond memory, or a loved one.

Know what makes a real smile. Most people can fairly readily tell a forced smile from a real one, sometimes called the “Duchenne” smile after a pioneer in smile research. This is because the two use different muscles and different parts of the brain. But what exactly happens? What makes a real smile look “real”? During a genuine smile, there is voluntary and involuntary contraction of two muscles: the zygomatic major and the orbicularis oculi, which raise the corners of your mouth and the areas around your cheeks and eyes, respectively. A forced smile only uses mouth muscles, however, because we cannot voluntarily contract the orbicularis oculi. This is why some people say a real smile uses the whole face, especially the eyes. Real smiles engage separates part of the brain, as well. While a forced smile uses the motor cortex, the real deal engages the limbic system, or the brain's emotional center. Exercise your smile. Like the rest of your body, your facial muscles will get better at their job if you exercise them often. They can be strengthened and toned through use, making it easier for you to flash your smile. Facial exercises and smiling can also make you look healthier and younger. For a simple exercise, try a plain smile. Stretch the corners of your mouth laterally and hold for 10 seconds. Then, part your lips slightly and hold another 10 seconds. Repeat, even expanding your smile if you want. Try this exercise to erase fine lines around your mouth: pucker your lips and suck in your cheeks, then try to smile. Hold this pose until the muscles start to tire. Do it once a day. Another exercise is the “silly rabbit.” For this one, smile as widely as possible without parting your lips. Then, try to wiggle your nose back and forth. This will engage the cheek muscles. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat. Learn to smile with your eyes. As said, a real smile does not just use the mouth and lips. It also engages the upper face, causing small crinkles around our eyes. In fact, this is probably the strongest give-away between a fake smile (using only the mouth and teeth) and a full, genuine one. A natural smile should light up your entire face. Remember to lift your cheek muscles when smiling. Your eye brows may also be engaged and slightly raised. Try practicing in front of a mirror. As an added aid, cover your mouth so that only your eyes and eyebrows are visible. You should be able to “see” the smile only from your eyes. If you worry about fine lines around your eyes, consider ways to reduce the wrinkles other than keeping a strictly neutral expression. Smoking, lack of sleep, and exposure to the sun are much bigger culprits than smiles. Cut them out of your routine. You shouldn't have to sacrifice smiling. Practice with a mirror. Flashing your smile in front of a mirror is a great way to practice. It will help you to discover what your natural smile looks and feels like, but also how to control it and use it to best advantage. As children we're often taught to say “cheese!” for photos. Actually, “cheese” isn't great for a natural smile. Sounds that end with “ah” like mocha or yoga are much better at opening your mouth while slightly raising your cheekbones, looking more natural. Practice! Pay attention to angles. Your face and smile might look better at certain angles than others. Experiment in the mirror. Find your best side. Then, use that angle in real interactions. Some fashion models also use the following trick: touch your tongue to the roof of your mouth, just behind the front teeth. The movement should open your jaw very slightly and better define its lines when you smile. Create the right mood. People smile because they're happy. But did you know that smiling increases our happiness even more? This is because how we feel emotions isn't just limited to our brain but is affected by our bodies, as well. Using the facial muscles reinforces and even increases happiness. Smiling should naturally make you want to smile more. This idea was actually first proposed by Charles Darwin, better known for his ideas on natural selection and evolution. Try smiling, even if it means that you are faking it. Just using those muscles can put you in a more smiley state of mind. Associate with happy people. Like using our own facial muscles, there are certain things we can see that will make us more apt to smile. One of these is other people smiling. Although the reasons are still unclear, smiling is “contagious.” Humans have a deep drive to smile whenever we see others doing so. To maximize this mood-builder, spend time with happy-go-lucky friends or family members. Got a funny aunt? Spend some time with her and let her mood rub off on you. Strangers work, as well. We get the same mood-boosting effect even from people that we do not know and with whom we have no connection. Try visiting a happy place to benefit, like a park, a zoo, or the movies. Somewhere you'll know you'll find happy people. Think happy thoughts. Another way to increase your mood – and your ability to smile – is to think of a particularly happy moment in your life or of a loved one. Choose someone or something that gives you a warm, radiant feeling. It could be a childhood memory, it could be your mom or your grandparents, or it could be your spouse. It works! Try to visualize the person or event. If talking to someone, pretend that the person is your smile-inducing loved one. This technique can work even if you are speaking over the phone or writing an email. Somehow, we can tell from a person's voice whether they are smiling even without seeing their face. The same might be true for emails, as well. Become comfortable with your smile. Whether from shyness, embarrassment, or other feelings, some of us have a difficult time smiling. Men, for example, smile less than women because it is probably considered less socially OK for them. Don't let these things get in the way. Getting over your fear of smiling takes just a small change in thinking. It may take some practice, though. Consider working on your form. If you are self-conscious for another reason like your teeth, for example, you can still take steps to improve your smile and to make you feel better about yourself. Set your face to best advantage. By studying yourself in the mirror, you should learn what sets your smile to best advantage. Experiment with angles but also with the wideness of your smile and accessories. You can also use tricks of light to improve your smile's appearance. Smile according to your face shape. If you have a longer face, a more vertical smile (i.e. bigger part at the mouth) will suit you better. If you have a square face, aim for a wider, more vertical smile. Do you have a full upper lip? Try showing off a bit of teeth when you smile. For thin upper lips, try smiling so that the bottom of your upper teeth touch your lower lip. To make your teeth sparkle a bit more for a picture, wet them with a bit of water. Adding some color can make your smile stand out even more. For example, red or pink lipstick can cause your teeth to look brighter, while coral or orange will make them appear somewhat yellowed. Brush and floss regularly. To get that perfect smile, and to banish any feelings of self-consciousness, make sure to practice good oral hygiene. Brush every day. Rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash. Also, visit your dentist at least once a year to keep your mouth healthy. Don't forget about your gums. Gum health is an important part of a healthy smile. Make sure to floss at least once per day. Consider carrying a small kit with you to work or when you go out, in your purse, backpack, or carry-all. You'll be able to brush or just clean stray bits out of your teeth after a meal. Avoid Botox. You may have considered getting a Botox injection at some point to smooth over wrinkles. Of course, this sort of decision needs to be made with the help of a medical professional. However, you should know that Botox can freeze muscles in the face. This can weaken your ability to smile. Botox around the eyes can be as bad as those around the mouth, since the eyes play a big part in a genuine smile. Some studies show that feeling of unhappiness and depression were 50% higher in people who used Botox. While the cause is not clear, this may have to do with how Botox interferes with expressing natural emotions. Whiten your teeth. If minor imperfections in your smile make you self-conscious, you can try to fix these. Teeth are naturally some shade of grey or yellow and they darken with age. They can also be stained through heavy use of tobacco, coffee, or tea. Although teeth are not meant to be perfectly white, many people use whiteners to lighten the hue of their smile. Surface whiteners are abrasives that help to get rid of stains. You can buy these products at your local pharmacy. Given that they contain many ingredients found in normal toothpaste, regular use should not cause tooth wear. Tooth bleaching is a more powerful form of whitening. You should talk to a dentist before doing this, particularly as some treatments do not work on all tooth discolorations. For example, bleaching might not work for patients with root canals, fillings, crowns, or extreme staining. Bleaching should only be done under a dentist's supervision. Consider dental intervention. Unfortunately, some people are unable to get good dental care or never learn proper oral hygiene. Having missing teeth, crooked teeth, or bad gums can be very embarrassing. The job of corrective dentistry is to fix these sorts of issues. For more serious problems, you may want to consult with a dentist about taking reconstructive steps. The dentist should be able to help you personally or refer you to an oral surgeon.

Know what makes a real smile. Exercise your smile. Learn to smile with your eyes. Practice with a mirror. Create the right mood. Associate with happy people. Think happy thoughts. Become comfortable with your smile. Set your face to best advantage. Brush and floss regularly. Avoid Botox. Whiten your teeth. Consider dental intervention.