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https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-Binoculars | How to Choose Binoculars | To choose binoculars, go with a pair that has 7x to 10x magnification for general use. If you plan to use your binoculars while hunting or to observe the night sky, look for higher magnifications like 10x or 12x. Binoculars with larger objective lenses have the widest fields of view, making them the best choice for bird-watching. If your concern is image quality, go with glass lenses. Buy binoculars with plastic lenses if durability is more important to you. | Choose binoculars with a 7x to 10x magnification for general use. The number that comes before the “x” when describing binoculars refers to the magnification factor, or how much closer objects will appear to be. If you just want binoculars for general use, rather than for a specific hobby, binoculars with 7x to 10x magnification are best. These will give you adequate magnification for most activities and won't be destabilized if your hand slightly shakes. Binoculars are referred to with 2 numbers, such as 7 x 35 or 10 x 50. The second number is the diameter of the main (objective) lenses in millimeters; 7 x 35 lenses are 35 millimeters (1.38 inches) in diameter, while 10 x 50 lenses are 50 millimeters (1.97 inches) in diameter. While binoculars with relatively small magnification factors produce images that are less magnified than those produced by binoculars with higher magnification factors, these images will be sharper and your field of view (how widely you can see) will be wider. If you need a wide field of view, such as for viewing a football game from high seats, choose a lower magnification. Look for high magnification for long-range hunting. If you're hunting in the mountains or in wide open ranges, you'll want to use binoculars with larger magnifications, such as 10x or 12x. Note that the higher the magnification of your binoculars, the dimmer the image will be. Although the image you see will be larger, your field of view will narrow and it'll harder to keep the image focused. If you choose binoculars with 10x magnification or greater, get a pair with a tripod socket so you can mount and steady your binoculars when needed. If you're hunting in a forested area, you may find that binoculars with a 7x to 10x magnification factor are more appropriate. Prioritize larger lenses for bird watching or low-light activities. Binoculars with larger objective lenses have wider fields of view, which are better for finding and following birds when bird watching. They're also able to gather more light, which is important in low-light activities such as hunting at dawn or dusk. If you're interested in astronomy, get as large an objective lense (70mm is common) and lowest magnification to see large dim objects like nebulae and galaxies like Andromeda (M31). If you're more interested in seeing the details on smaller birds at greater distances, then you may want to opt for binoculars with larger magnifications and smaller lenses. Note that the larger the lenses are, the more the binoculars will probably weigh. Generally speaking, standard-sized binoculars have objective lens diameters larger than 30mm, while compact-sized binoculars have lens diameters smaller than 30mm. Determine ahead of time what your price range will be. It's generally true that the more expensive, top-of-the-line binoculars have higher image quality and are also more durable. However, there are also a lot of cheaper binoculars that are adequately durable and have decent optical quality. Thus, pick a price range that you feel comfortable buying binoculars at and don't feel compelled to go beyond it. Think about how you intend to use your binoculars; a pair you intend to keep at home to look out the window don't need to be as durable as a pair you want to take hiking with you. Decide how heavy a pair of binoculars you can handle. As noted, high-magnification and large-lens binoculars weigh more than standard binoculars. If you plan to travel long distances or don't have a lot of storage room, you may want to settle for less powerful but lighter binoculars. You can compensate for the weight and stabilize the binoculars by mounting them on a tripod or with a strap that lets you carry them around your neck How you intend to use the binoculars is especially relevant here. If you plan to carry them around your neck while hiking, heavy binoculars may be a real burden. Consider waterproof versus water-resistant binoculars. If you don't plan on using your binoculars in bad weather or in conditions where they'll get wet very often, you can get by with water-resistant binoculars. If you plan to take them along whitewater rafting or skiing, get waterproof binoculars instead. Note that waterproof binoculars are usually more expensive than water-resistant binoculars. Choose glass lenses for better quality images. Most binoculars have glass lenses, which generally provide better image quality. Glass also partially reflects the light that hits it, although this can be compensated for with the right coating. If image quality is your highest priority, make sure the binoculars you plan to buy have glass lenses. Note that glass lenses are also typically more expensive than plastic lenses. Binoculars made with Extra-low Dispersion (ED) glass produce the most high quality image, though these are also one of the most expensive types of lens material used in binoculars. Lens coatings are described with the following codes: C means that only some surfaces have been coated with a single coating layer; FC means that all glass lens surfaces other have been coated; MC means that some surfaces have been coated with multiple layers; and FMC means that all glass lens surfaces have been coated with multiple layers. Multiple-layer coatings are generally superior to single coatings but add to the cost of the binoculars. Opt for plastic lenses for durability. Plastic lenses might not give you the most quality image, but they're much more rugged than glass lenses. If you intend to use your binoculars mainly outdoors and in rugged conditions where durability is an important factor, choose a pair with plastic lenses. For example, binoculars with plastic lenses are the best choice for activities such as hiking and mountain climbing, or for children who are handling binoculars for the first time. Note that while plastic lenses are generally inexpensive, a set of plastic lenses that provide the same image quality as a set of glass lenses will cost more. Evaluate the eyepieces. The eyepiece lenses should rest a comfortable distance from your eyes, and even further if you wear glasses. This is called "eye relief" and normally ranges from 5 to 20 millimeters (0.2 to 0.98 inches). If you wear glasses, you'll need an eye relief of 14 to 15 millimeters (0.55 to 0.59 inches) or greater, as most eyeglasses rest from 9 to 13 millimeters (0.35 to 0.5 inches) from the eye. Many binoculars include rubber eye cups around the eyepieces to help you seat the eyepieces over your eyes when using the binoculars. If you wear glasses, look for binoculars with eye cups that retract or flip out of the way. Test the focusing function. Look at how closely you can focus the binoculars in the store and measure the distance between them and the object you're looking at. If you care about spotting tiny details from far away, you'll need to make sure the binoculars have good focusing ability. Binoculars focus in 1 of 2 ways. Most binoculars have a center-post mechanism, as well as a diopter corrector in case one of your eyes is stronger or weaker than the other. Waterproof binoculars, however, usually have individual focusing for each lenses, with controls on each eyepiece. Some binoculars are "focus-free," with no ability to adjust the focus whatsoever. These binoculars can cause eyestrain if you attempt to focus on something closer than the pre-set distance. Look at the prism design to gauge how good the images will be. Most binoculars have their main lenses spaced wider than the eyepieces, thanks to the Porro prisms they use. This makes the binoculars larger but makes nearby objects appear more 3-dimensional. Binoculars that use roof prisms let the main lenses rest in line with the eyepieces, making the binoculars more compact but usually at the cost of image quality. However, roof prism binoculars can be made to deliver images of quality equal to Porro prism binoculars but at greater cost. Less expensive binoculars use BK-7 prisms, which tend to square off one side of the image, while more expensive binoculars use BAK-4 prisms, which deliver more light and sharper, rounder images. Check out the manufacturer's reputation and guarantees. Consider how long the manufacturer has been in business and what other optical products they make, if any, as well as how they'll handle matters if the binoculars get damaged. Note as well whether the manufacturer offers a warranty for the binoculars. If you buy an expensive pair of binoculars and they become damaged, having a warranty or guarantee from the manufacturer would make it much easier for you to get them replaced. | Choose binoculars with a 7x to 10x magnification for general use. Look for high magnification for long-range hunting. Prioritize larger lenses for bird watching or low-light activities. Determine ahead of time what your price range will be. Decide how heavy a pair of binoculars you can handle. Consider waterproof versus water-resistant binoculars. Choose glass lenses for better quality images. Opt for plastic lenses for durability. Evaluate the eyepieces. Test the focusing function. Look at the prism design to gauge how good the images will be. Check out the manufacturer's reputation and guarantees. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Airline-Pilot | How to Become an Airline Pilot | If you want to become an airline pilot, focus on taking math and science classes if you're still in school, since they'll be most the most helpful for your future career. You should also plan on getting your undergraduate degree if you don't already have one, which is required by most major airlines. Once you graduate, you can enroll in an accredited flight school and start gaining experience. For a cheaper option, you can join the military and train to be a pilot that way. Either way, you'll eventually need to take a written and practical exam to earn your pilot's license so you can start flying on your own! | Graduate from high school with courses in math and science. Although there are no high school course requirements for becoming an airline pilot, generally courses in math and science will be most helpful for your future career. Enroll in advanced placement classes if they are offered by your school. Consider taking part in extracurricular activities related to flying. In the UK, for instance, you could join the Air Training Corps (ATC), a volunteer-military youth organization for people under the age of 18. Earn a 4-year college degree to fly for a large commercial airline. A bachelor's degree or equivalent is required to become a pilot for a major airline. It's preferable to get a bachelor of science with an emphasis in aviation, but your degree doesn't necessarily have to be aviation related. Some regional airlines only require a 2-year degree. Certain colleges and universities, such as the University of North Dakota, offer flight training in concurrence with academic classes. Obtain a first-class medical certificate. Make an appointment with a certified aviation medical examiner. A doctor will review your medical history and conduct a physical examination to ensure that you're both physically and mentally capable of operating an airplane. Contrary to popular belief, you can still become a professional pilot if you wear glasses or contacts, as long as your vision is correctable to 20/20. In the United States, you must visit the office of a certified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME). A list of AMEs in your community can be found here: https://www.faa.gov/licenses_certificates/medical_certification/ Enroll in an accredited flight school or training program to gain flight experience. Training generally comes in two forms: integrated and modular. Integrated training programs are more expensive, but allow you to complete your training more quickly—generally 14-18 months. Modular programs allow you to pay as you go and are better if you want to train part-time, potentially taking breaks between modules. If you're in the United States, completing classes at an FAA-approved flight school can reduce the amount of flight experience required for a pilot's license. Consider military flight training for a subsidized option. Enrolling in flight school and acquiring the required number of flight hours can be an incredibly expensive process. If you enlist in the military, however, your flight training will be subsidized. The flip side, of course, is that you must agree to a multi-year commitment to the armed forces (10 years, in the United States). The Air Force , Navy , Army , and Coast Guard offer flight training if you are a U.S. citizen. Job prospects are generally good for those leaving the military to become an airline pilot. Get a student pilot’s license to fly a plane on your own. Apply for a student pilot's license through the official aviation board in your country. These licenses are free to apply for, but you may need your instructor sign-off to prove your skills. You can start taking flying lessons before you've applied for a student pilot certificate, but you'll need one to operate a plane by yourself. A private pilot's license, your next step, requires a certain amount of solo flying hours. You can often apply for a student pilot certificate at the same time as your medical certificate. Take a written exam to start earning your private pilot’s license. The written exam can be taken at any time before the practical exam—some instructors and flight schools require it to be completed successfully before you start flying. The test consists of 60 multiple-choice questions. However, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) recommends that you complete a solo cross-country flight before taking the written exam. A list of testing centers in the U.S. can be found here: https://www.faa.gov/training_testing/testing/media/test_centers.pdf. Pass a practical flight exam and obtain your private pilot’s license. To take your practical exam, you must have completed 40 total hours of flight time. Those 40 hours must include a minimum of 10 hours flying solo, of which 5 must be a solo cross-country flight, and 20 hours with an instructor. The flight exam is administered by an FAA examiner and usually lasts 1-2 hours. You must provide your own plane for the exam. Once you've completed this process, you're officially a licensed pilot. You will be comfortable with the fundamentals of flying a single-engine plane. You cannot receive payment for your services when you hold this license. Add an instrument rating to fly in inclement weather. An instrument rating requires 50 hours of cross-country flight time while serving as the pilot in command. You also need 40 hours of actual or simulated instrument flight experience to qualify. To prove your flight hours, your instructor will review your pilot logbook and set up an appointment with a dedicated pilot examiner. Then, you'll be asked to plan a cross-country flight using instrument flight rules (which you may or may not actually fly), as well as an oral exam and flight test. This rating allows you to pilot a plane during periods of low visibility, guided solely by the airplane's instruments. Earn a commercial pilot’s license to be paid to fly. To qualify for an FAA Commercial Pilot License, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have at least 250 hours of flight experience. Like your private pilot license, you'll need to pass a written and flight exam. The commercial certificate requires 250 flight hours (including 100 hours as pilot in command, 50 hours cross-country, and 10 hours of dual instruction in a complex aircraft). The written exam for a commercial license contains 100 multiple choice questions. You will be given 3 hours to complete the test, and the minimum score is 70%. The practical exam must be administered by an FAA-approved examiner, a list of which can be searched here: http://av-info.faa.gov/DesigneeSearch.asp. Add a multi-engine rating to legally fly a twin engine aircraft. To work as an airline pilot, you must acquire a multi-engine rating to fly planes with two engines. You'll need an endorsement from your instructor and will also have to take a practical test that includes a detailed verbal test. The oral exam can be administered by the instructor and includes questions about weight and balance, aircraft systems, and minimum controllable airspeed. No written test is required. Earn your airline transport pilot’s license. To apply for this license, you must 23 years or older and have at least 1,500 hours of flying experience (that includes both night and instrument flying). You'll also be required to pass written and flight examinations. The written exam is multiple choice and addresses subjects like flight planning and monitoring, radio navigation, meteorology, and air law. The practical exam is administered by either an FAA Inspector or an FAA Designated Pilot Examiner. It's divided into two sections: an oral exam and a test flight. This license allows you to operate as the captain (or the “pilot in command”) of a commercial aircraft. Apply for jobs with regional airlines. To work for a major airline, you will typically need 3,000 hours total flight time including at least 1,500 hours multi-engine, and at least 1,000 hours as pilot in command of a turbine-powered aircraft. To gain that experience, you can start by working at a regional airline, which often requires only 1,500 hours of flight time. Many pilots start out at smaller airlines where they can gain experience flying on scheduled flights in a variety of weather conditions. Then, they use that experience to get higher paying jobs at bigger airlines. Complete your certified flight instructor rating to work at a flight school. Some flight schools offer you flight hours in exchange for working as an instructor there. This is a very common route to earning the hours needed to fly for a major airline since it allows you to earn money and while building up your flight hours. Similarly, find a job as an instructor at a simulator company. Even if they cannot pay you a salary, see if you can trade your instructor hours for hours using the simulator and gaining experience to use in future job interviews. Volunteer as a pilot to gain experience while helping others. Safety pilots, for instance, keep an eye out while another pilot is wearing a view-limiting device that simulates low-visibility weather conditions. You can donate your time while also earning flight hours. Or, if you are in the U.S., you can work with the Civil Air Patrol (CAP)—the official civilian auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force. It conducts search-and-rescue missions and educational flights for younger cadets using a feel of smaller aircraft. Some CAP flights require a private pilot's license at minimum, while others have more stringent requirements. Find “low-time” pilot jobs in your community for additional hours. Options include scenic flights, glider towing, aerial photography, towing banners, and pipeline patrol. These jobs may be hard to find when the market is bad for pilots, since other, more experienced pilots may be looking for work. These jobs can usually be found via word-of-mouth or contacting businesses in your area that you think might be hiring part-time pilots. Apply to airlines as soon as you meet the minimum requirements. Prepare a one-page professional pilot resume. The resume should be broken down into sections with your contact information, ratings and flight hours, experience and chronological job history and any awards or accomplishments. Ask other pilots who have direct knowledge of your flying skills to write letters of recommendation. Prepare for the interview by researching the airline. Figure out what types of planes they operate, as well as their hub cities. Look them up online to see if there's been any recent news about the company. Also, make sure your logbook is complete and you have an accurate record of your flight time. Check professional pilot websites where pilots share airline specific interview experiences. You may want to bring copies of records such as college transcripts, military records, and licenses to the interview. If the airline conducts a simulator check, rent a simulator at your local airport or flight school to brush up. Some companies offer airline-specific interview simulator preparation, although this specialty interview prep can be pricey. Complete your initial training once hired. Onboarding for airline pilots typically includes a week of company training, 3-6 weeks of ground school and simulator training, and 25 hours of initial operating experience (including a check ride with an FAA aviation safety inspector). Once trained, you'll be required to complete regular training and simulator checks. These usually occur once or twice a year. Start working at the airline as a flight engineer. Depending on the type of aircraft, new airline pilots start as first officers or flight engineers. Although some airlines favor applicants who already have a flight engineer's license, they may provide flight engineer training for those who have only the commercial license. Advance to first officer after 1-5 years. In the airlines, advancement is usually predetermined by seniority provisions stated in union contracts. After a period of 1-5 years, you will likely be promoted to the role of first office. A first officer (also known as the co-pilot) is the second-in-command to the captain. Become a captain after 5-15 years on the job. Gaining seniority will also help you acquire preferred flight assignments. Your time with the airline will determine when you fly, if you fly on weekends, or if you'll be in the air during Christmas or other holidays. Any time you change airlines, by choice or because you've been laid off or your airline has gone out of business, you will be starting at the bottom again at your new airline in terms of your position, schedule, and pay—regardless of experience. | Graduate from high school with courses in math and science. Earn a 4-year college degree to fly for a large commercial airline. Obtain a first-class medical certificate. Enroll in an accredited flight school or training program to gain flight experience. Consider military flight training for a subsidized option. Get a student pilot’s license to fly a plane on your own. Take a written exam to start earning your private pilot’s license. Pass a practical flight exam and obtain your private pilot’s license. Add an instrument rating to fly in inclement weather. Earn a commercial pilot’s license to be paid to fly. Add a multi-engine rating to legally fly a twin engine aircraft. Earn your airline transport pilot’s license. Apply for jobs with regional airlines. Complete your certified flight instructor rating to work at a flight school. Volunteer as a pilot to gain experience while helping others. Find “low-time” pilot jobs in your community for additional hours. Apply to airlines as soon as you meet the minimum requirements. Prepare for the interview by researching the airline. Complete your initial training once hired. Start working at the airline as a flight engineer. Advance to first officer after 1-5 years. Become a captain after 5-15 years on the job. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Donate-Blood | How to Donate Blood | If you want to donate blood, make an appointment at a local blood bank. The day of your appointment, wear loose-fitting clothing, drink at least 16 oz. of water, and eat a well-balanced meal. At the appointment, you'll need to provide your ID, answer questions about your medical history, and submit to a brief physical to make sure you're in good health. When it's your turn to donate, you'll feel a small poke, then you can just relax for 8-10 minutes while the machine gathers your blood. Don't exert yourself for 15-20 minutes after giving blood. | Determine whether you’re an eligible donor. To give blood, you must be at least 17 years of age and a healthy weight, usually 110 pounds or heavier. In some places, you can donate blood as young as 16, provided you can show proof of parental consent. Call your local blood center ask about what they look for in a donor. A few factors that may disqualify you from donating blood include having a cold or the flu, pregnancy, sexually transmitted diseases, and organ transplants. Certain medications, like antidepressants, hormonal birth control, and pain relievers like aspirin can also affect the properties of blood, which may make you ineligible to donate if you've taken them recently. Find a local blood bank or blood drive. Your best bet is to visit a regional chapter of the American Red Cross, an organization which collects almost half of all blood donations in the US. Some other reputable organizations seeking donations include America's Blood Centers, a network of community-based, independent blood programs across North America, United Blood Services, a non-profit center that serves 18 states, and The Armed Service Blood Program, a military-sponsored program with 20 locations around the world. Log onto the website of the American Red Cross and use their Blood Drive Locator to find out where you can go to give blood in your area. If there's not a chapter of the Red Cross or a similar organization nearby, look into mobile donation centers. These are basically traveling blood drives that move from place to make giving blood more convenient for people in out-of-the-way places. Drink plenty of water. It's important that you be nice and hydrated when giving blood, as water is essential for healthy blood chemistry and circulation. Try to drink at least 16 oz. of fluids prior to donating. Water, juice, or decaffeinated tea is best. Loading up on fluids will also prevent you from feeling lightheaded while your blood is being drawn. Avoid caffeinated beverages like coffee or soft drinks—these can actually dehydrate you if you consume too many of them. Eat a well-balanced meal a few hours before giving blood. Make sure you put something nutritious on your stomach prior to heading to the clinic. All the major food groups should be represented, including fruits, vegetables, complex carbohydrates (such as bread, pasta, or potatoes), fiber, and lean protein. Add a little extra iron to your diet in the weeks prior to your donation by increasing your intake of red meat, spinach, beans, fish, and poultry. Your body needs iron to produce red blood cells. Since fats can accumulate in your bloodstream and impact the purity of your blood, it's best to limit them to small quantities. Bring your ID. Most clinics require donors to have 2 valid forms of photo identification when checking in. This could be a driver's license, passport, or military ID, but some clinics may also accept student ID cards or similar forms of identification. You'll present your ID to the person at the desk when you arrive. Don't forget to bring your official Blood Donor card if you've donated in the past. Showing it will allow you to skip a lot of unnecessary paperwork. Dress appropriately. Certain types of clothing can help speed up the donation process. Short sleeves or long sleeves that can be rolled up quickly will make it much easier for the technicians to find a suitable spot on your arm. Loose-fitting items are a plus, since they don't restrict blood flow. If you're bundled up for cold weather, make sure your outer layer is something you can remove quickly. Even if it's not chilly outside, it's a good idea to bring a sweatshirt or light jacket. Your body temperature drops slightly when you give blood, which may cause you to feel a little chilly. However, if your arm begins to feel noticeably colder than the arm not giving blood, tell the technician there, as that could be dangerous for you. Provide your basic medical information. Upon checking in, you'll be given a few short forms to fill out. These forms will ask for your relevant medical history, as well as any illnesses, injuries, or unusual conditions you've recently experienced. Answer each question as honestly and accurately as possible. Be sure to mention any prescription medications you've been taking, along with any other health-related details that might be worth looking out for. It may be a good idea to write down key parts of your medical history beforehand if there's anything important you might forget. Sit for a physical. Next, you'll undergo a brief examination to confirm that your heart rate, blood pressure, and hemoglobin levels are normal. The technician may also record other physical stats like height, weight, sex, and age. They'll then prepare you to give blood by positioning your arm and swabbing the injection site. A quick checkup is needed to assess your physical condition and ensure that the donated blood is coming from a healthy individual. To measure your hemoglobin and iron levels, the technician will prick your fingertip an analyze the blood droplet. Sit up or lie down. Let your technician know whether you'd prefer to be in an upright or reclined position while having your blood drawn, as well as which arm you want to give from. Once you're ready to begin, relax and get comfortable. You'll feel a small poke, then a subtle cool sensation while the machine slowly extracts your blood. The donation process itself takes about 8-10 minutes, during which 1 pint of blood will be collected. Keep yourself entertained while the technicians draw your blood. A book, smartphone, or mp3 player can be a welcome distraction while you're attempting to sit still. If you've come unprepared, you could also pass the time by chatting with your technician or going over the day's to-do list in your head. 8-10 minutes may sound like a long time, but it will be over before you know it. Make sure whatever activity you bring isn't too much of a disturbance. You may be asked to keep your arm perfectly still while your blood is being drawn. If the sight of blood makes you squeamish, focus your attention elsewhere around the room. Rest up. After you've finished making your donation, take it easy for at least 15-20 minutes. Most blood drives provide a designated rest area with places for donors to sit until they've regained their strength. If you feel dizzy or disoriented over the next 24 hours, lie down and put your feet up, elevated above your heart. The feeling will soon pass. Avoid strenuous activities like exercising, playing sports, or mowing the lawn for at least 5 hours after donating. Be careful getting around if you're prone to fainting. Low blood pressure can cause you to become lightheaded. It may be a good idea to use the handrails while walking up and down stairs or have someone drive you around until you're no longer disoriented. Keep your bandage on to let your arm heal. Leave it in place for the next 5 hours or so. Once the needle puncture stops bleeding, you don't need the bandage anymore. You may experience swelling, inflammation, or bruising over the next 24 hours. Icing the affected area will help reduce the severity of these symptoms. If the technician applied a separate compression wrap over the bandage, it's okay to remove it after 2 hours to give your arm a chance to breathe. Wash the bandaged area periodically with soap and warm water to avoid a rash or infection. Replenish your fluids. Load up on water or other non-caffeinated fluids over the next couple of days to make sure you're properly hydrated. Water is vital for producing healthy blood. Any fatigue or disorientation you may have experienced should disappear within a few hours. It's normal to feel a little tired after giving blood. This is due to your body's fluid levels and oxygenated blood levels being lower than you're used to. Don't drink alcohol for at least 24 hours. Alcohol consumption can thin out your blood, lengthening the time it takes for the needle site to close up, which could make you feel worse and lead to an increased risk of bleeding. Alcohol also causes you to urinate more, so your body loses even more fluid. Wait at least 8 weeks before donating again. Should you decide to give blood again, it will be necessary to wait 56 days between donations. This number is 84 days for women, taking into account the iron loss from the menstrual cycle. This is about how long it takes for your blood cells to fully replenish themselves. After this time is up, your blood concentration will be back to normal and you'll be ready to donate again, without posing any unnecessary risks to your health. If you're only donating platelets, you can make another donation after 3 days or return to donate whole blood after a week. There's no limit to the number of times you can give blood. In fact, the more you donate, the more of a difference you stand to make. | Determine whether you’re an eligible donor. Find a local blood bank or blood drive. Drink plenty of water. Eat a well-balanced meal a few hours before giving blood. Bring your ID. Dress appropriately. Provide your basic medical information. Sit for a physical. Sit up or lie down. Keep yourself entertained while the technicians draw your blood. Rest up. Keep your bandage on to let your arm heal. Replenish your fluids. Wait at least 8 weeks before donating again. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Burglarproof-Your-Doors | How to Burglarproof Your Doors | Making your doors burglarproof is an important part of improving your home security. Make sure your doors have deadbolt locks and cylinder guards, which provide an extra layer of security. If you have a sliding door, use keyed locks to secure it. You should also reinforce your door frame with 3-inch screws so a burglar can't pry it away from the wall with a crowbar. Additionally, install a peep hole in your outside doors so you can see who's there without opening the door. If your outside doors are hollow or have windows in them, replace them as soon as possible, since these will be easy to break through even with extra security. | Get the right doors. If your front and back doors are hollow, you need to replace them immediately. How do you know if your door is hollow? Simply knock on it. Hollow doors are merely sheets of veneer over a cardboard core. All exterior doors should be solid and made from the following materials: Fiberglass Solid wood Solid wood core (a layer of veneer over solid wood) Metal (Note: make sure metal doors are reinforced inside and have what is called a lock block. Otherwise, they can be bent out of the frame using a car jack) If installing/replacing a new door and frame, consider a fiberglass door that swings outward rather than inward (and don't forget using security hinges). Having a door open in this way helps absorb any type of forced entry. Replace all windowed exterior doors with windowless doors. For maximum security, all doors should be windowless, and you should not have windows close enough to the door so that a thief could break the window and unlock the door from the inside. A deadbolt isn't much help on any door like this for that reason. A big dog's the only possible hindrance with these doors, but only with the landlord's permission. If you do have sliding glass doors, glass door panels or nearby windows, however, cover the glass with a security grate or grille on the outside or a clear, unbreakable polycarbonate panel secured behind the glass on the inside. Install deadbolt locks. With the exception of sliding doors, all exterior doors should have a deadbolt lock in addition to the lock built into the doorknob. The deadbolt should be high quality (grade 1 or 2, solid metal with no exposed screws on the exterior), with a throw bolt (the bolt that comes out of the door) at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) long. The lock should be properly installed. Many homes have lower quality deadbolts or throw bolts less than 1 inch (2.5 cm). These must be replaced. Install a dead-lock. Adding an additional lock will provide extra security when you are home. The dead-lock (sometimes called an 'exit-only deadbolt') is a deadbolt that does not have an external key. It may be clearly visible on the door from the outside, but it cannot be broken into without destroying the door, frame, or lock itself. While this security won't help directly when you aren't home, its visibility may discourage an intruder from trying the door. Secure sliding doors. The best way to secure sliding doors is to install keyed locks at the top and bottom. You can also make or purchase a bar that swings down from the door frame to the middle of the door to prevent the door from sliding. At the very least, place a rod (a thick wooden dowel, for example) in the bottom track of the door to keep it from being opened. Regardless of the method you use, it's a good idea to reinforce the glass with polycarbonate panels, as recommended in the previous step. Install cylinder guards around the lock cylinders (the part where you insert the key). Burglars can sometimes remove or damage lock cylinders by hammering, wrenching, or prying. Protect these with metal guard plates or protective rings on both sides of the door. Install guard plates with round-head carriage bolts to prevent them from being unscrewed. Free-spinning rings around the cylinders will prevent the use of a pipe wrench to twist out the cylinder. Many locks come with these already, but if yours doesn't, you can purchase them. Replace flimsy strike plates. The strike plate is the metal plate that surrounds the lock-set (the hole in the door frame where the lock bolt enters). All exterior doors should have heavy-duty metal security strike plates secured by four 3-inch screws. Many homes are built with lower quality strike plates or have strike plates that are secured with short screws that just attach to the door jamb, not the underlying stud. Secure exposed hinges. Hinges should be on the inside of the door. If yours are not, rehang the door or secure the exposed hinges with non-removable pins. You can do this by removing at least the two center screws of the hinge (on each side) and replacing them with non-removable hinge pins (you can get these at the hardware store) or double-headed masonry nails. Even hinges that are not exposed should be secured to the frame with 3-inch screws. Fortify your frame. Even if your door is strong and has high-quality, properly installed locks, a burglar may be able to gain entry by breaking or prying the door frame. Most door frame moldings are simply tacked to the wall, so a crowbar or a solid kick can easily separate the frame from the wall. Secure your door frames to the walls by installing several 3-inch screws along the frame and doorstop. The screws should reach the wall stud. Install viewers. Viewers (also called peepholes ) allow you to see who is on the other side of the door. Install wide-angle viewers at eye level on all exterior doors. If you have to open your door to see, your locks won't do you much good. Try to find peepholes with covers to prevent people from looking back in with special tools, like a reverse peephole viewer. | Get the right doors. If installing/replacing a new door and frame, consider a fiberglass door that swings outward rather than inward (and don't forget using security hinges). Replace all windowed exterior doors with windowless doors. Install deadbolt locks. Install a dead-lock. Secure sliding doors. Install cylinder guards around the lock cylinders (the part where you insert the key). Replace flimsy strike plates. Secure exposed hinges. Fortify your frame. Install viewers. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Cat-Litter-from-Tracking | How to Keep Cat Litter from Tracking | To keep your cat litter from tracking, make sure you're only filling the box with 1 to 2 inches of litter, which your cat will be less likely to spread over the floor. Additionally, place a scatter mat under the box to catch any litter that does fall out. Alternatively, change to a coarser litter so it's less likely to stick to your cat's paws. If the problem persists, try buying a bigger litter box, since cats are less likely to kick the litter out of a large box. You could also buy a box with a tracker trap, which absorbs litter on your cat's paws. | Get the biggest litter box you can find. Cats bury their urine and feces after they use the litter box, so they are more likely to kick litter out of the pan if the litter box is too small. To reduce the amount of litter that gets kicked out of the pan, make sure that you provide your cat with the biggest litter box you can find. If possible, get an auto mechanic's oil change tray to use as your cat's litter box. These trays have high sides and they are nice and big to help contain more of your cat's litter. Look for a litter box with a tracker trap. Some litter boxes have built-in tracker traps around the edges that absorb some of the litter on your cat's paws. Try to find a litter box that has a built-in tracker trap to help reduce litter tracking. Place your cat’s litter box inside of another litter box. You can also nest your cat's litter box inside of another litter box to prevent litter from getting out of your cat's box. Try placing your cat's litter box inside of another box with shallow sides. If you can't find another litter box or just don't want to buy one, then a cardboard box will also work. Try a covered litter box. Covered litter boxes can reduce litter tracking because they have walls on three sides, so your cat will not be able to kick as much litter out of the box. However, these types of boxes do not completely solve the problem because your cat may still kick litter out of the front entrance to the box. Keep in mind that some cats dislike covered litter boxes because they keep odors inside the box and they are confining. If you have never used a covered litter box with your cat before, try adding one and see if your cat will use it. Find a top entry litter box. Getting a top-entry litter box may also be a good solution to the problem. Top entry litter boxes are closed on all sides and your cat has to enter through the top of the box. Just keep in mind that top-entry boxes are not ideal for all cats. For example, if your cat is older or arthritic, then she may have a hard time getting in and out of her box. Some cats also dislike these boxes because they are confining. Place a scatter mat under your cat’s litter box. Scatter mats are like floor mats for cats. You can place a large scatter mat under your cat's litter box so that he will have to wipe his feet after he leaves his litter box. These mats can help to absorb some of the litter on your cat's paws and prevent him from tracking litter all over. For extra litter trapping power, try placing multiple mats around your cat's litter box. There are lots of different kinds of mats that you can try. You can go with a basic floor mat, a plastic mat, a sisal mat, or even get a mat that looks like fake grass. Switch to a different type of litter. Cats prefer a fine-grained litter, but if it is too fine, then too much may be sticking to your cat's paws. Try changing to a litter that is slightly coarser than the litter you are using now. Cat litter comes in two basic types (clumping and non-clumping), but there is a lot of variation in the materials used to make cat litters. Clumping litter. Clumping litters are those that form a lump around urine so that it is easy for you to scoop litter out of your cat's litter box. Clay clumping litter is the most common, but you can also find clumping litter that is made from corn. You might find that a corn-based litter will not lead to as much tracking as clay litter. Non-clumping litter. You can also look into different types of non-clumping litters. Non-clumping litters are available in clay, sawdust, wheat, and pine. Some of these litters come in large particles or pellets, so these might be harder for your cat to track out of the box as well. Fill the litter box with only one to two inches of litter. Cats do not need a deep bed of litter. Having too much litter in the pan may even lead to more litter ending up outside of the box. Instead, only fill your cat's litter box with about one to two inches of litter. Vacuum or sweep around your cat’s litter box daily. Taking a few minutes to vacuum or sweep around your cat's litter box each day may also help to reduce tracking. Although this creates more work for you, keeping the area around your cat's box clean will keep her from walking through litter and tracking it to other areas of the house. Consider toilet training your cat. If you are tired of cleaning your cat's litter box, then you might consider toilet training your cat. As long as your cat is not elderly or arthritic, then you may be able to train her to use a toilet. Toilet training a cat is easier with some special equipment, such as training seats that fit over your toilet bowl. Keep in mind that the process of toilet training a cat will take lots of time and patience. If you do not have the time to invest in training your cat to use the toilet, then you may want to stick with the litter box. | Get the biggest litter box you can find. Look for a litter box with a tracker trap. Place your cat’s litter box inside of another litter box. Try a covered litter box. Find a top entry litter box. Place a scatter mat under your cat’s litter box. Switch to a different type of litter. Fill the litter box with only one to two inches of litter. Vacuum or sweep around your cat’s litter box daily. Consider toilet training your cat. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Vegetarian-Cannelloni | How to Make Vegetarian Cannelloni | To make vegetarian cannelloni, start by heating up garlic and olive oil in a large pan, then adding vinegar, sugar, and tomatoes once the garlic has softened. After about 20 minutes of simmering, stir the basil into your now completed sauce, set it aside, and preheat your oven to 400°F. Next, boil the cannelloni noodles and fry up the spinach, which you'll combine with ricotta cheese and egg for the filling. Finally, stuff the cannelloni noodles with the filling, pour the sauce over them in a baking dish, and put them in the oven for about 40 minutes. | Heat three tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan. While the pan is heating, crush eight cloves of garlic and add them to the oil. Stir the crushed garlic in the oil for one minute or until it starts to soften. If you are short on time, you can choose to use store-bought tomato sauce instead. Store-bought garlic and basil tomato sauces work particularly well for this recipe. Add the vinegar, sugar, and tomatoes to pan. These ingredients will make up the majority of your sauce. Turn the heat down to a simmer and let the sauce cook for approximately 20 minutes. Make sure that you stir the sauce occasionally so that it doesn't burn on the bottom. Add the basil to the sauce. Once the sauce is done simmering, you can add the basil, give it a good stir, and then set the sauce aside. Either keep it in the pan or put in a container if you plan on making your cannelloni later in the day. You can also separate the sauce into two different baking dishes if you prefer to have the sauce under the cannelloni. Or, pour half the sauce into the baking dish and save the other half of the sauce to pour over the cannelloni. Make the mascarpone topping. This is an optional step but highly recommended. Scoop 250 grams of mascarpone (approximately two tubs) into a medium sized bowl. Add three tablespoons of milk to the mascarpone and beat the ingredients together. Add any desired seasoning and then set this topping aside. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204.4°C). While the oven is heating, fill a large with water. Add a dash of salt and bring the pot to a boil. You don't want to cook the cannelloni the whole way through--the goal is actually just to soften them up a little bit. Place the cannelloni into the water once it is boiling. Cook them for several minutes. They should should begin to get a little softer while still retaining their shape. You can also use square pasta pieces, rather than traditional cannelloni. Lightly heat them as well. Rinse your spinach. Once rinsed, do not pat it dry. Instead, transfer it to a frying pan and bring it to medium-high heat. Stir the spinach until it becomes wilted--this should take about one minute. Once wilted, place the spinach in a colander and use the back of a spoon to press out any remaining moisture. If you are pressed for time, you can also use a package of frozen chopped spinach. Simply stick it in the microwave and then place it in a colander and use the back of a spoon to press any excess liquid out. Place the spinach on a chopping board. Chop it finely using a large chopping knife. The spinach will make up part of the filling, so the finer you chop it, the smoother your filling will be. Scoop the ricotta into a medium bowl. Add the spinach to the ricotta. Use a large wooden spoon to mix the ingredients so that they become smooth. Add salt and pepper to taste. Once the filling is seasoned to your taste, add one egg and stir it into the mixture. If you aren't planning on using the filling right away, cover it with tin foil or plastic wrap and stick it in the fridge. There are many variations on what you can add to the filling of the cannelloni. You may also wish to consider adding some pine nuts, a touch of nutmeg, or roasted vegetables. Snip of the corner of a large resealable bag. This will be your filling device. If you happen to have a piping bag lying around, you can use that instead. Scoop the ricotta filling into the plastic bag. Carefully squeeze the bag so that the ricotta mixture fills up the cannelloni. If you chose to use the pasta squares, lay them out flat. Use a spoon to scoop ricotta filling onto the squares in a neat line down the middle. Roll the pasta sheet up and around the filling. Lay the pasta tubes side by side. They should not be lying on top of each other, but rather perfectly side by side (so you can fit as many into the dish as possible without the pasta sticking together). Pour the toppings onto the cannelloni. If you chose to make the mascarpone sauce, spoon it onto the cannelloni. Pour the rest of the sauce onto the cannelloni and sprinkle parmesan on top of the sauce. If desired, you can pour half of the remaining sauce onto the cannelloni and keep the rest in a bowl. When the cannelloni is done cooking, heat up the remaining sauce and let your dinner guests spoon as much sauce as they would like onto their cannelloni. Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil. Place the dish in the oven and bake it for 20 minutes. Once the 20 minutes have passed, remove the aluminium foil and continue to bake the cannelloni for another 20 minutes or until the top becomes golden. Remove the cannelloni from the oven. Let it stand for five minutes before serving it up. Enjoy! Finished. | Heat three tablespoons of olive oil in a large pan. Add the vinegar, sugar, and tomatoes to pan. Add the basil to the sauce. Make the mascarpone topping. Preheat the oven to 400°F (204.4°C). Rinse your spinach. Place the spinach on a chopping board. Scoop the ricotta into a medium bowl. Snip of the corner of a large resealable bag. Lay the pasta tubes side by side. Pour the toppings onto the cannelloni. Cover the baking dish with aluminium foil. Remove the cannelloni from the oven. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Varnish | How to Remove Varnish | If you have an old piece of furniture or a wood floor that you want to update with a new color or stain, you'll need to remove the varnish first. Make sure to work in a well-ventilated area and use safety goggles, a mask, and gloves to protect yourself. Start by sanding off the old varnish with 150-grit sandpaper. After you remove as much as you can, move to 220-grit sandpaper until all of the varnish is gone. When you're done, wipe off any dust with a damp cloth. Another way to remove varnish is to use a water-based solvent or a traditional paint-stripping solvent. Start by sanding down the area a bit first so the solvent penetrates better. Then, liberally apply the solvent and rub the area down with steel wool. After using the solvent, you'll need to wipe the surface down with a neutralizer, like water or mineral spirits. | Create good ventilation. Whether you're sanding or using a chemical solvent, it's a good idea to have ventilation. Open windows and use fans to create cross-ventilation if you're inside. If you can, take the piece outside or in a well-ventilated area to work on it. To create cross-ventilation, place one fan so it's blowing into the area, and one so it's blowing out a window. Protect the area from varnish and dust. If you must work in an area with other furniture, protect it with drop cloths. Also, spread a drop cloth on the floor to protect it if you're not removing varnish from the floor. If you're stripping floors, remove all furniture so you have room to work. Use safety goggles, a mask, and gloves to protect yourself. Wear safety goggles. If you're using a solvent, put on rubber gloves, long clothing, and a respirator mask. If you're just sanding, a dust mask and gloves should do. Remove any hardware. If you're removing varnish from a piece of furniture, take off any hardware you can. Unscrew knobs, and remove hinges from cabinet doors. Put them in a safe place so you can find them later. If you are removing a lot of hardware, put it in separate plastic baggies and label the bags with a permanent market to make it easier to put back together later. Start by using 150-grit sandpaper. To make it easier on yourself, use an orbital sander if you're doing a flat surface. If you're not doing a flat surface, use a sanding block or sandpaper in your hand. Always go with the grain of the wood, not against it, and make sure to get into the nooks and crannies. Move on when you've removed most of the varnish and you need to smooth out the surface. Sanding is the most effective way to remove varnish. If that doesn't work, you may need to move on to a solvent like paint remover. Move up to 220-grit sandpaper. After you've gone over the piece with 150-grit paper, choose 220-grit next. Go over the whole piece or floor with this sandpaper next, using the orbital sander or sanding block. Stop when you've removed all the varnish. Nooks and crannies will be more difficult, so pay them special attention. You'll likely need to get into those areas with the sanding block or just sandpaper in your hand. Wipe off any dust. When you're done, use a damp tack cloth to go over the area. You don't want to leave dust on the piece, as it will stick in the stain or paint. Let the area dry before moving on. Pick water-based solvent or a traditional paint-stripping solvent. If you're sensitive to fumes, try something water-based, such as Safest Stripper or Citristrip. These don't work as fast as harsher solvents, but they are a bit gentler. Otherwise, a traditional brushable solvent will do the trick. Typically, these solvents are labelled "paint strippers." Sand down the area with coarse sandpaper. Even though you're using a solvent to take off the varnish, it helps to sand it down a bit first. Sanding it will let the solvent penetrate better. Spend at least 10 minutes going over the whole piece if you're doing a piece of furniture, going along the grain. If you're doing the floor, just make sure to give the whole area a good, quick scrubbing all over. Try a grit somewhere in the 40 to 70 range. Apply the solvent. Liberally apply a solvent that will remove varnish to the whole area. Paint it on thick, as it needs to be thick to remove the varnish. Make sure you get it into all the small nooks, so it can work everywhere. Make sure you have plenty of ventilation for this step. Leave the solvent on the area. You'll need to let the varnish soak in to work. How long you let it soak depends on the solvent. With some solvents, it can be as long as 2 hours. With others, it may be as little as 20 minutes. Read the back of your bottle to find out how long it should sit. If you need to leave it longer than an hour or 2, cover it with a tarp so the solvent stays wet. Rub the area down with steel wool to remove the varnish. Using fine steel wool (#0000), scrub the area down. Make sure you move in the direction of grain instead of against it. The steel wool will remove any varnish on the furniture with the assistance of the solvent. If it's particularly thick varnish, you may need to use a metal scraper or brush instead. Apply the package-recommended neutralizer. After using a solvent, you'll generally need to wipe it down with something to neutralize it. That could be water or mineral spirits. Others have brand-specific neutralizers. Read the package to find out what you need. Whatever you use, you can apply it with a paper towel, moving with the grain of the wood. Clean up with fine sandpaper. When everything is mostly removed, use 150-grit sandpaper to take off any bits of varnish you see leftover. You can also smooth out any rough spots while you're at it. Wipe it down with a wet rag to remove any residue. | Create good ventilation. Protect the area from varnish and dust. Use safety goggles, a mask, and gloves to protect yourself. Remove any hardware. Start by using 150-grit sandpaper. Move up to 220-grit sandpaper. Wipe off any dust. Pick water-based solvent or a traditional paint-stripping solvent. Sand down the area with coarse sandpaper. Apply the solvent. Leave the solvent on the area. Rub the area down with steel wool to remove the varnish. Apply the package-recommended neutralizer. Clean up with fine sandpaper. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Groom-Your-Collie | How to Groom Your Collie | To groom your collie, you'll need either blunt-nosed grooming scissors or an electric hair trimmer. To get started, trim the hair around your collie's ears and paws so it doesn't get matted. Then, cut the hair on the back of your collie's legs, and clip any long hairs on its tail. Just avoid shaving or shearing your collie, even during the summer, since collies use their fur to regulate their body temperature year round. | Brush weekly. While it may seem like you need to attend to their long fur more often, once a week should be sufficient for most Collies. You may want to brush them twice or more week during their shedding season, which typically takes place once a year during mid to late summer. Check your dog at the end of each day to comb out any ticks or debris caught in the coat. Be especially careful to check paws, ears, armpits, and groin. Start by finely misting your Collie's coat with water using a spray bottle to keep their hair supple. Use a slicker brush or long-tooth comb to comb their fur with the grain (that is, from their neck towards their tail). Be sure to gently remove any tangles as you go. Keep brushing until you can work the brush easily through their hair without feeling any resistance. For stubborn mats, use a comb to pick them out. If they still don't budge, trim them using a blunt-nosed grooming scissors. Place your middle and forefinger on either side of the hair just under the mat and against your Collie's skin to put a barrier between them and the scissors. Then, clip away the mat, leaving as much of their fur as you can. Pay special attention to their legs and ears. Rough collies tend to grow long tufts of hair around their ears and on the back sides of their legs. These sensitive areas are especially prone to matting, so it's wise to give them extra attention during your dog's weekly brushing. Hold down each ear in turn while gently combing the hair behind it back, away from the ear. If you encounter any tangles, hold the hair below them while you use a comb to pick them out. Be sure to brush out the fringes of fur behind their front legs and in their armpits along the grain of the hair. Do the same for their “pants,” the ruff of hair at the back of their hind legs. Wipe down their fur. Use a damp cloth or flannel to wipe down your Collie's coat after brushing. Follow the grain of their fur, moving from their neck to tail. Apply enough pressure to pick up any lingering hair or dirt, but avoid rubbing since that can press debris into their coat or skin instead of removing it. infrequently using a mild dog shampoo. Bathe them Collies don't usually have a “doggy” smell, and frequent bathing or exposure to human bath products can dry out or irritate their skin while depleting the natural oils in their coats. Give them a bath only when necessary or a few times a year unless otherwise directed by a vet. Bathe them in a tub, shower, or outside using a hose with a gentle spray nozzle. It will be easiest to do if they're in an enclosed space with a mobile water source (like a detachable shower head). Wet your dog's coat from the neck down using luke-warm water. Lather their fur from their neck down with a mild, hypoallergenic, fragrance-free dog shampoo. Rinse away the suds with luke-warm water until the water runs clear. Once you've given your Collie a thorough rinse, let them shake the water out of their coat. Then, use a large, absorbent towel to gently pat them dry. If your Collie is often dirty from outings, rinse away the mud with plain water rather than bathing them more often. Get the right equipment. You can use a blunt-nosed grooming scissors and/or an electric hair trimmer. The scissors will help you trim hair more precisely, but the electric trimmer can be quicker and safer. If your Collie is skittish when it comes to grooming, use the latter. Trim around your Collie’s ears. Long-coated Rough Collies will often get tufts of hair around their perky ears. Keep them in check by clipping away any excess fur with your grooming shears or trimmer. Start by pressing your Collie's ear forward against their skull to expose any surrounding tufts behind or on either side of their ear. Cut the hair immediately surrounding their earn down to about an inch in length. You can also trim any long hairs growing out of the ear themselves. Clip them close to your Collie's ear, being careful to avoid snipping their actual ear. Trim the fur around their paws. Any long hair around your Collie's foot pads is liable to become easily matted or caked with mud and dirt. To ensure your pet's comfort, keep the fur around their feet, on top of their toes, and between their pads very short. Use a small, blunt-nosed scissors or an electric hair trimmer to remove excess paw hair. Tidy up their back legs. Rough Collies may have a profusion of hair growing on the back sides of their hind legs. If that's the case, comb it straight out away from their legs with your slick brush, and trim it using your scissors. Clip it evenly, following the line of your dog's leg. You can trim it down to be short enough to match the hair on the front of their hind legs. Clip long hairs on their tail. The fur on a Collie's tail often grows wild and can accumulate a lot of dirt. Stick to trimming away just the fly-away hairs or uneven fur that's sticking out. Trimming down all the fur on their tail would look odd and patchy. Avoid shearing your Collie. While you want to trim away mats and excess fur in sensitive areas that are prone to matting, it's not a good idea to shave or significantly trim your dog's fur in general. Collie's double-coats may seem like a burden in warmer weather, but they actually help regulate their body temperature year-round. Their fur insulates in the winter and cools them down in the summer. Consider taking your Collie to a groomer. For major trims, it's wise to call in a professional. Taking your pet to a groomer every three months or so will help make the regular maintenance of their thick double-coats a whole lot easier. Trim their nails monthly. Regular clipping will keep your Collie's claws from cracking, breaking, or scratching. To do so, you will need a scissor-like Miller's Forge trimmer designed for medium-sized dogs as well as some styptic powder to address any bleeding. Frequently, the powder will come packaged with the clippers. Going one paw at a time, firmly hold each foot around the ankle with your less dominant hand while using your dominant hand to operate the clippers. Before trimming, look for the tiny red nerve ending called the “quick” on the underside of each claw. Only clip the bit of the nail that extends beyond the quick, always erring on the side of leaving too much. If you accidentally clip through the quick or see blood, press styptic powder firmly into the end of their nail to staunch the bleeding. Give your dog lots of praise and treats to reassure them that everything's alright. If your Collie is not a fan of this process, recruit another person to hold them in place and comfort them while you clip their nails. If they still don't stop squirming, it's probably best to leave this task to a professional. Wash their ears weekly or as required. Keep your Collie's perky ears free from wax and dirt by cleaning them with a mild canine ear cleaner. Start by checking for any signs of infection like swelling, bad smells, rashes, or discharge. If you notice any of these symptoms, take your dog to the vet. If you don't notice any discharge, waxy buildup or smell then should should leave them alone. To clean your Collie's ears, drip a small amount of the cleaning solution into each ear. It should be just enough to fill each ear canal. Massage the base of your dog's ear for 10-20 seconds; then, let them shake their head to get the cleaner out. Use a clean cotton ball to gently wipe away any liquid, dirt, and wax that was released by the cleaning solution. To avoid damaging to your Collie's inner ear, don't use cotton swabs or poke into their ear canal. Brush their teeth daily if possible. Good oral hygiene is essential to warding off bad breath, tartar buildup, and bacterial infections. Brushing your Collie's teeth is the easiest way to promote their oral hygiene. To maximize convenience and effectiveness, get an angled toothbrush and toothpaste made especially for medium-sized dogs. Dog toothpaste comes in a variety of meaty flavors that your Collie will enjoy and doesn't need to be rinsed out of their mouths. Human toothpaste can be poisonous or harmful to dogs, especially those with fluoride and/or baking soda. Pull up your Collie's lips, and brush their teeth along the gumline with quick, gentle circular motions. You only need to brush the front-side of their teeth. You can also minimize plaque buildup by feeding your dog dry kibble and providing them with dental chews. Watch out for signs of infection. As you groom, be on the lookout for any potential symptoms of infections like sores, rashes, redness, discoloration, swelling, scabs, and/or discharge. These could be indications of allergies, skin conditions, or systemic issues that can negatively impact your Collie's health. If you see any worrying symptoms, make an appointment with a vet seek a diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Take your Collie to the vet for regular check-ups. Be sure that your pet is well cared for, inside and out. Register your Collie with a local veterinary practice, and make regular visits so that you can catch any health issues early. Besides reminding you to schedule annual health exams for your Collie, your vet will help you ensure that your pooch is up-to-date with vaccinations and parasite control treatments. Up until age 7, Collies should go in for at least one check-up a year. After that, it's best to schedule one every six months. | Brush weekly. Pay special attention to their legs and ears. Wipe down their fur. infrequently using a mild dog shampoo. Get the right equipment. Trim around your Collie’s ears. Trim the fur around their paws. Tidy up their back legs. Clip long hairs on their tail. Avoid shearing your Collie. Consider taking your Collie to a groomer. Trim their nails monthly. Wash their ears weekly or as required. Brush their teeth daily if possible. Watch out for signs of infection. Take your Collie to the vet for regular check-ups. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Fork-Bracelet | How to Make a Fork Bracelet | To make a fork bracelet, start by choosing a silver or sterling silver fork since these will be the easiest to bend. Next, hold the end of the handle in one hand and the root and tines of the fork in the other, and bend it into a “U” shape. If bending the fork by hand proves difficult, then cover the fork with a protective cloth, secure the handle with an adjustable wrench for leverage, and bend your fork into a bracelet shape. If you want to add some unique details to your bracelet, use the needle nose pliers to bend the tines into various shapes. | Choose your fork. Look to buy forks at garage sales or thrift stores. Usually, silverware sold at garage sales and thrift stores are relatively cheap. The fork that you buy also needs to be made of silver or sterling silver. That's because silver and sterling silver is very easy to manipulate and bend. Forks that are silver or sterling silver will have the numbers “900” or “925” stamped on the back of the fork. Consider looking for forks that have decorative detailing on the handle. It can add some flair when you wear it as a bracelet. Because stainless steel is less pliable, avoid using stainless steel forks to make your bracelet. Bend the fork with your hands. Use your hands to bend the fork following the natural curve of the back of the fork (the curves area around the base of the fork tines). Position the fork upside down, with the face of the fork turned toward the ground. Grip one hand over the root and tines of the fork, and position your other hand on the end handle of the fork. With the hand that is gripping the end of the fork, extend your thumb out to the neck of the fork, so it can act as a fulcrum while you bend. Apply pressure to bend and curve the front portion of the fork (with the tines) downward. Once the root and tines are bent, slide your hands down the body of the fork, bending the handle little by little. When you are finished bending the fork with your hands, the fork should be bent into a relatively even “U” shape. Secure the end of the fork. Use an adjustable wrench to hold steady the end of the fork as you bend the body of the fork with pliers. Twist the adjustable screw on the head of the wrench to open up the wrench jaws. Position the end of the fork between the jaws of the wrench, placing the fork on the stationary top jaw. Twist the adjusting screw to raise the lower jaw of the wrench, and clamp down tightly on the fork's end. Wrap the fork with a protective material. Wrap the end portion of the fork with a small square of thick cloth material like corduroy or denim. The cloth can be as small as a square inch, it just has to completely surround and cover both the top and bottom surfaces of the fork. This is so the pliers don't leave small indents in the body of the fork as your grip and bend it. Hold the protective cloth in place with a couple fingers of the hand that is gripping the adjustable wrench, so you can pick up the pliers with your free hand. Bend the body of the fork. Position the wrapped end area of the fork in between the open pinchers of the needle nose pliers. Squeeze together the handles of the pliers to clamp down the pinchers on the wrapped portion of the body of the fork closest to the tines of the fork. Firmly grip the adjustable wrench, and apply force to turn the needle nose pliers down, bending the body of the fork. Each bend you make, slide the protective material and the pliers down toward the end of the fork (toward the wrench) and keep making little bends. When you are finished bending with the pliers, the body of the fork should look rounded instead of the “U” shape from earlier. Curve the fork tines. Once the body has been bent into a rounder shape, loosen and remove the adjustable wrench from the end of the fork. Wrap the tines of the fork with the protective material, and use the same needle nose pliers to clamp down over the protective material. Position the pliers so they clamp down on two of the four fork tines. While one hand is holding the body of the fork, use downward pressure to bend two tines at a tine, following the natural curve of the fork tines. Once you curve two tines into a rounder shape, flip the fork to the other side, clamp the pliers down, and bend the other two tines. Be sure to make your tine bends smooth and even. You can adjust and move the pliers in small increments to bend the tines at different points, but try to avoid making choppy and rough bends in the tines. Roll the outer fork tines. Use the tip of your jewelry pliers to grip the tip of one of the outside tines of the fork. Twist the pliers laterally, to roll the tine outward until the tip of the tine is rolled and touches the outside edge of the tine. Do this on both outside fork tines. Roll one of the inner fork tines. Use the tip of the jewelry pliers to grip the tip of one of the inner fork tines. Twist the pliers to roll the tine back on it self, rolling in the opposite direction of the curve of the bracelet and the natural curve of the tines. Roll the tine all the way down to the root of the tines. Release the small jewelry pliers and grip the needle nose pliers along the sides rolled up tine (the pliers should be parallel with the rest of the fork tines). Twist the roll to the side, so it's perpendicular to the fork tines. Then bend down the rolled tine so it can lay flat on the back of the fork root. The rolled tine will most likely not be completely flesh against the fork root, so use the needle nose pliers to clamp down on the rolled tine, and press it flat against the fork root. Curve the other inner fork tine. In the same manner you rolled the outer fork tines to the sides until the tips met the edges of the tines, roll back the tip of the other inner fork tine. Grip the inner tine with the small jewelry pliers, and twist the pliers to roll the tine back on itself, moving in the opposite direction of the natural curve of the tines. Roll the tip of the tine backward until the tip touches the tine again. Make adjustments. Use your hands to bend the bracelet and make any adjustments to the curvature or opening of the bracelet. You can pull apart or push together the bracelet ends to modify how large you want to bracelet opening to be. | Choose your fork. Bend the fork with your hands. Secure the end of the fork. Wrap the fork with a protective material. Bend the body of the fork. Curve the fork tines. Roll the outer fork tines. Roll one of the inner fork tines. Curve the other inner fork tine. Make adjustments. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-Tiger-Salamanders | How to Take Care of Tiger Salamanders | To take care of your tiger salamander, put it in a glass, 10-gallon tank with secure wire mesh for a lid so air can circulate. Inside of the tank, put at least 4 inches of organic top soil that's free from chemicals, fertilizers and pesticides so your salamander doesn't get too dry and can do some burrowing. You should also put the tank somewhere where it gets natural light during the day so its temperature stays at around 77 degrees Fahrenheit, which is a healthy environment for your salamander. Since salamanders are carnivores, feed your pet a varied diet of 3 to 4 insects, such as meal worms, crickets, and caterpillars, every day. You also need to give it clean fresh water in a shallow dish that's large enough for it to climb into since it will absorb the water through its skin. Remember to change this water daily to keep the bowl clean. | Get a suitable enclosure. The best type of enclosure for adult tiger salamanders is a vivarium or aquarium tank. These glass enclosures allow you to observe your salamander closely as well as being very sturdy and reliable. The tank will need a secure wire mesh for the lid to allow a free circulation of air. One adult tiger salamander will need a 10-gallon tank. The dimensions of this will be approximately 50x25cm, or 20x30 inches. Two salamanders require a 20-gallon tank (73x30cm/29x12 inches). Do not house two males together or they might fight. Tigers are often best kept individually. The surface area of the tank, that is the length x width, is more important than the height. A cheaper alternative to an aquarium tank is a plastic storage tub with a tightly fitted lid. If you opt for this you will have to drill plenty of small holes to enable the circulation of air. Provide good substrate. You should get a good substrate that will prevent desiccation and enable your salamander to do some burrowing. It should be at least 4 inches or 10cm deep. You should get a substrate that retains some moisture, but doesn't become muddy, or dry out. It should also be able to break down some organic matter, such as uneaten food and faeces. Good substrates include organic top soil which is free from chemicals, fertilizers and pesticides. Coco-fiber is another good choice. A mix of the two is recommended. You should avoid peat moss, or soil mixtures that contain peat moss. These are often acidic and can lead to your salamander becoming ill. Similarly, you should always avoid using gravel or pine or cedar chips. Create hiding spaces. Tiger salamanders will like to have places to hide in their habitat. You should provide two hides on each side of the tank. They should be dark and secure, and can be easily fashioned using pieces of cork bark. You can also buy commercially produced coconut halves which make excellent hides. Alternatively, you can just turn an empty plant pot on its side. You can introduce plants and stones to create a more varied and stimulating environment. Your tiger will want around and explore his surroundings. If you introduce anything from outside, such as stones or branches, you need to sanitise them first. Soak them in chlorine/water solution, rinse thoroughly, soak in clean water, and then allow them to dry naturally. Fake plants available from pet stores are a more straightforward option. Monitor the temperature and lighting. Compared to some other amphibians, it is relatively straightforward to provide the appropriate temperature and lighting for good health. Tigers will do well kept at a temperature of around 77 Fahrenheit, or 22 Celsius, or a little lower. In captivity they generally tolerate lower temperatures better than they do higher ones. Sustained exposure to temperatures over 78°F (25.5°C) can be stressful and harmful. Tiger salamanders don't need additional UV lighting like some other amphibians. As long as the salamander has exposure to ambient light during the day, and is in a dark environment during the night, you should not need to make any further provisions. Feed him appropriately. Salamanders are carnivores. They are attracted to prey by its movement. They will hunt for food and it can be interesting to watch them feed, and they will most often just ignore already dead prey and food pellets. Because of this, you will need to feed your tiger with a varied diet of insects every day. Good food choices include meal worms, crickets, earthworms, flour beetles, caterpillars and moths. Try feeding your salamander 3 or 4 insects in one session each day. Your salamander may get insufficient calcium and vitamins from the insects. You should guard against this by dusting the live food with calcium and vitamin supplements once a week. Crickets are a particularly poor source of calcium so don't rely on these too much. You can feed your salamander an occasional pinkie mouse, but keep this irregular as your salamander can easily become obese if he has regular mice. Provide clean fresh water daily. Your tiger salamander will need access to water in the air which he will absorb through his skin. You should provide a water dish that your salamander can climb into that is large enough for him move around in, but still shallow. The water should be changed daily and the bowl kept clean. If you are using a heat bulb, ensure the water bowl is on the opposite side of the enclosure. As well as a water bowl, you will need to mist the enclosure by spraying water into it. This will help maintain the environment and provide more water for your tiger. There is no fixed amount amount that you should mist your enclosure, but monitor the substrate, and mist when it looks to be losing moisture. Misting a few times a week will often be enough. You can provide a variety of different levels of moisture in different parts of the enclosure and allow the salamander to seek out the environment it wants at that moment. Keep the enclosure clean. You should spot clean the enclosure every day to remove any uneaten food, shed skin, and faeces. You can do this when you change the water and check the moisture level of the substrate. Clean out and sterilise the tank completely every few weeks. Use a reptile/amphibian-friendly disinfectant which you can buy from your local pet store. Be sure to sterilise all the items in the tanks including plants, logs, and stones. Avoid it as much as possible. Tiger salamanders have very sensitive skin so you should generally avoid handling them. These are not creatures which you can play with in the same way you would with a different kind of pet. The fun comes from observing them rather than handling them. There may, however, be occasions when you need to handle a tiger salamander, so it's important to know how to do this safely. Ensure your hands are clean. If you are going to handle your tiger salamander it's crucial that you make sure your hands are clean first. Salamander skin is very sensitive to oils, salts and any other residues on your hands. Because salamanders absorb liquid through their skin, exposure to the elements on your hands can cause health problems, and can cause the tiger to become dehydrated. Wet your hands with bottled water. After washing your hands be sure to thoroughly rinse them with purified water, such as bottled mineral water, before you handle the salamander. After washing and rinsing, wet your hands again with purified water before you handle the salamander. Wetting your hands like this will limit the chances of your tiger becoming dehydrated. Even after taking these precautions, you should only handle your salamander for short periods. If you are moving your salamander to a separate container while you clean the main tank, ensure that you have wet the floor of this container with purified water before you put him in. | Get a suitable enclosure. Provide good substrate. Create hiding spaces. Monitor the temperature and lighting. Feed him appropriately. Provide clean fresh water daily. Keep the enclosure clean. Avoid it as much as possible. Ensure your hands are clean. Wet your hands with bottled water. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Tofu | How to Make Tofu | To start your tofu, line a plastic tofu container with a piece of cheesecloth so that the cloth drapes over the sides. Then, heat 3 cups of soy milk over low heat, and mix 1 cup of water and 1/2 teaspoon of nigari in a separate bowl. When the milk reaches 140 °F, stir half of the coagulant into the pot. After 5 minutes, stir in the rest and simmer the mixture on low After 15 minutes, scrape the tofu into the container, place a weight on the box to strain out moisture for 20 minutes. Chill the tofu in a cold water bath and serve! | Soak the soybeans in water overnight. Place them in a bowl and cover them with six cups of water. The beans should triple in size. If you want to change the amount of soybeans you're using, just be sure to always use a volume of water three times the volume of the soybeans. Drain the water. When the beans are soft, drain the soaking water from them using the strainer or colander. When they are completely drained, empty the beans into a bowl or other container. Boil 4 quarts of water. Use a large stockpot or dutch oven, so you won't risk having the water and beans boil over the rim. Pulverize the beans. Process them in a blender on high speed for 3 to 4 minutes, until they are completely pureed. Cook the pulverized beans. Measure out 8 ounces of the beans and add them to the boiling water. Reduce the heat to medium and cook for 15 minutes, stirring constantly. When the mixture starts to boil again, add 2 or 3 drops of vegetable oil to keep it from boiling over. Don't turn down the heat. Cook for another 7-10 minutes. Strain the mixture. Line a strainer with cheesecloth and set it over a large bowl. Pour the boiled soybean mixture slowly through the lined strainer. This separates the soybean milk from the mash. Pick up the corners of the cloth, gather them, and twist tightly. Using the long-handled spoon, press repeatedly on the cloth bundle to force the remaining liquid into the bowl. You've now produced soy milk. Get your tofu box ready. Line a plastic tofu container with holes through the bottom with a piece of cheesecloth about four times the size of the box. Let the ends drape over the sides of the box. You can use another loosely woven cotton cloth in place of cheesecloth. If you don't have a special tofu box, you can poke holes in a different plastic container. Cook the soy milk. Measure the liquid into a large cooking pot and heat it over low heat. It should stay at about 140 F. Prepare the coagulant. Put a cup of water in a clean bowl. Add 1/2 teaspoon of the nigari and mix until dissolved. You can use gypsum as a coagulant instead of nigari; it results in a slightly softer tofu. Combine the soy milk and coagulant. Slowly add half the nigari mixture to the liquid in the pot. Stir constantly as you're combining the liquids. After 5 minutes, slowly add the other half of the nigari mixture, stirring constantly. Simmer the mixture. Cover the pot, reduce to the lowest possible heat, and simmer for about 15 minutes. The mixture will begin to coagulate, and the curds will separate from the whey. When you see the white curds completely separate from the yellowish whey, it's time to transfer the tofu. Transfer the tofu. Use a wooden spoon to scoop the tofu out of the pot into the lined tofu box. Pat it smooth and even. Wrap the excess cloth over the top. Place the lid on the container, then put a large pot of water on top of the container to serve as a weight. Let the container sit for 20 minutes to allow it to drain. Chill the tofu. Fill a large mixing bowl with cold water. Immerse the container of tofu in the bowl of water. Turn it over and gently remove the container. Remove the gauze. The solid block of tofu is now ready to eat. Make a coagulant solution. Stir the nigari into a cup with a few tablespoons of water. Keep stirring until the coagulant has completely dissolved. Add the coagulant to the soy milk. Place both ingredients in a bowl and use a wooden spoon to gently fold them together. Don't agitate them too much, or the mixture will turn lumpy. Distribute the mixture into heatproof bowls. You can use heatproof cups, ramekins or small baking dishes. Place the dishes in a deep pan. A cast iron skillet or dutch oven works well. Pour a few inches of water into the bottom of the pan, so that it rises up the sides of the heatproof bowls, but doesn't enter them. Cover the pan with a lined lid. Use a dishcloth to line the lid, them make sure to place it tightly on the pan. Simmer the tofu. Turn the heat to medium and let the water come to a steady simmer. Simmer the tofu for about 10 minutes, or until the tofu is just set, like a quiche or custard. Remove the tofu from the pan and let it rest. Place it on a table and let it sit at room temperature so it can continue to set. Serve the tofu. You can serve it warm or chill it in the refrigerator for later. Popular toppings include lemon zest, shaved cucumber, sea salt, bonito flakes, grated ginger, and soy sauce. You can also cook with tofu instead of serving it alone. Dango is a popular snack that is made of silken tofu. | Soak the soybeans in water overnight. Drain the water. Boil 4 quarts of water. Pulverize the beans. Cook the pulverized beans. Strain the mixture. Get your tofu box ready. Cook the soy milk. Prepare the coagulant. Combine the soy milk and coagulant. Simmer the mixture. Transfer the tofu. Chill the tofu. Make a coagulant solution. Add the coagulant to the soy milk. Distribute the mixture into heatproof bowls. Place the dishes in a deep pan. Cover the pan with a lined lid. Simmer the tofu. Remove the tofu from the pan and let it rest. Serve the tofu. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Maintain-a-Positive-Attitude | How to Maintain a Positive Attitude | If you're struggling to maintain a positive attitude, try improving your mood by listening to upbeat music or watching positive, funny shows. Alternatively, remind yourself of all the good things in your life by writing down what you're grateful for at the end of each day. Additionally, do some form of exercise or physical activity at least a few days a week, which can help reduce stress and anxiety. You should also try surrounding yourself with positive people, whose mannerisms and attitudes can help you keep your goal of remaining positive. | Feed positivity into your brain. These days, it feels like a lot of negativity is coming at us which causes our thought process to be negative. If TV, social media, or news leaves you thinking “the world is awful” or “there is so much evil out there,” stop watching or listening. Change or counteract what you are letting in from negative to positive and it will be easier to maintain your positive attitude. Listen to music with uplifting lyrics and beats. Read and seek out positive content through books. Follow organizations and websites that promote positivity such as Upworthy or Little Things. Tap into the power of positive thinking. Getting into the habit of thinking positively can change the way you process new thoughts, feelings, and events. Your brain is like a muscle, so like any other muscle you have to exercise even when you may not feel like it. In addition to helping you maintain a positive attitude, positive thinking can provide other great benefits. Lower levels of distress and rates of depression Increased lifespan Help with better coping skills during hardships Improved immune system Use the positive reframing technique. It may be difficult in situations or during times of situational stress to stay positive. To help, there is a cognitive technique that can assist you in changing the way you react to those stressors. Positive reframing asks that you notice negative events or harmful thoughts and make a conscious choice to change them or change the way you see them. This technique does not change what is happening, but it can change how you feel resulting in a more consistent ability to stay positive. Change the way your mind questions your experience. Alter “Why is this happening to me?” into “How can I learn from this and use it to grow?” Challenge any assumptions you may be having about yourself or the situation you are in. Change the language you use when speaking. Change “He hates me and is just trying to drive me crazy” to “Yes, he was not nice, but maybe he is having a really difficult day today.” Practice gratitude. Remaining positive begins with being able to see the positive everyday. Think of and concentrate on the things you are thankful for by writing down 3 new things you are grateful for that day. Being actively grateful can change your thinking to be more positively oriented and help you focus on what you have rather than thinking about what you don't have. Make sure you relish small pleasures as well as big ones. If you are still struggling, you can purchase gratitude journals online, or utilize gratitude journal applications on your smartphone with prompts to help you. Work on your gratitude journal at night, so you can end with a positive attitude about every day. Redirect or limit your negative thoughts. You are not going to be able to stop yourself from having negative thoughts. You will be able to train yourself to think more positively, but negative thoughts will still occur. When they do, you can redirect or limit them. Agree on a short time limit (5 minutes) to engage the negative thinking. Acknowledge it, give it time and space, and then say enough, and move on with positive thinking and reframing. Get involved in a positive activity until the negative thoughts subside, like helping someone, calling a friend, or exercising. Sing your favorite songs so that the lyrics are what you are focusing on instead of your negative thoughts. Choose happiness. This may sound strange, but when something happens in your life, you get to choose if it is a positive or negative experience for you. Even if it is something bad, you can choose what your take-away is; what you can learn from it or what positivity you can take away from it. Where? Instead of looking outward for happiness and positivity (e.g.- a good job, a nice house, money), look inward (e.g.- contentment, pride, intelligence). When? Make happiness and positivity your top goal, search and look for it all the time. Linger on little positive moments, seek out the knowledge and skills from the world and others. Smile. Even if you don't feel it completely, find a reason to smile and let that positivity help with an instant attitude boost. Smiling releases feel good hormones in your brain like dopamine, serotonin, and endorphins. Instead of waiting for something positive to come along to boost your day, be that positivity for yourself and for others. Think of the funniest joke you know. Remember a happy memory. Look at pictures or mementos that make you smile. Read an uplifting story. Change your emotional language. Maintaining your positivity may be as simple as changing the language you use when discussing how you feel. Make sure you are not using mediocre words, really identify how you feel and use more descriptive emotional words to convey it. For example, don't feel “okay” or “fine,” feel “great” or “amazing!” Get professional help. If you have tried to gain or maintain a positive attitude but you find that you are always feeling down, sad, or crying, it may be time to consider getting a psychologist to speak to. Alternatively, if you are a positive person and you have been maintaining a positive attitude, but a recent event has made that difficult, it may also help to talk to a professional. Professional mental health workers, like psychologists or counselors, are trained to help you discover what is happening and help you reach your goal of getting back to your positive self. Walk away from negativity. If somebody taunts you or tries to act negatively towards you ignore it, or if you cannot ignore it, walk away. Likewise if you are in areas or surrounded by pessimism, anxiety, distrust or negative judgments, it can affect your ability to remain positive. Remove yourself from those places and those people in an effort to maintain your positive attitude. If it is a work situation or other situation that you cannot walk away from, try to make the interactions as brief as possible. Surround yourself with positive people. While trying to maintain a positive attitude, you want to make sure you surround yourself with positive people. Our outlooks, mannerisms, and attitudes can affect each other the more time we spend together, so make the time you spend be affected by positivity. Additionally you want to have a positive support group of family and friends as well, to help support you and keep your goal of remaining positive. Write down a list of the people you spend the most time with. Consider what you observe to be their primary qualities. Note if you feel they add to or take away from your positivity, or how you feel after spending time with them. Participate in active community service. A great way to obtain and maintain a positive attitude is to get out into the community and begin doing good deeds for others. Helping others provides you with a longer lasting sense of happiness and positivity. Additionally, it will allow you to see the positive impact you are making on the world. Help someone you know. Volunteer at a local church serving meals. Work for a larger non-profit organization. Engage in advocacy. Practice self-care. Keeping positive includes allowing yourself time to “recharge your batteries,” which you can do by practicing self care. Self-care is extremely important to remaining positive and can include anything you do with the intention of truly taking care of your physical, mental, and emotional health and needs. Engage in physical self-care. Taking care of your physical self is incredibly important to your body's response to stress and your ability to remain positive and in good mental health. Addressing your physical self-care includes: Eating regularly and eating well. Getting good quality sleep and enough hours of sleep. Attending to any medical needs or medical problems you have been having. Ascetic self care such as pampering yourself with a home spa day. Practice mental self-care. Attending to you mental health is just as important as attending to your physical health. Just as your physical health can negatively affect your mental health, your mental health can actually weaken your immune system, cause fatigue, and headaches. Maintaining your mental self-care can include: Practicing meditation. Engaging counseling services like individual therapy. Performing relaxation exercises such as deep breathing. Using visualization to see yourself succeeding. Maintain your emotional self-care. Recharge your batteries by keeping your emotional self healthy. Take the time to recover from any negativity that comes your way, and get yourself back to a place where you can access the positivity you have worked so hard for. Emotional self-care can include: Participating in fun activities. Talking with someone you have not seen in a while Giving yourself something to look forward to like a vacation. Create a morning ritual that you love. Exercise. Exercise is one of the simplest way to get an emotional boost. It is recommended to fight common mental health issues such as depression and anxiety, as well as stress from health conditions and more serious mental health concerns. Exercise has also been shown to release chemicals triggering a positive response in your body. Maintaining a positive attitude may include integrating some exercise into your schedule. Choose whatever exercise and level of exercise works for you. If you do not know of one, consider yoga, which focuses on exercise, but also on principles of happiness and mindfulness, both incredibly useful to maintaining a positive attitude. | Feed positivity into your brain. Tap into the power of positive thinking. Use the positive reframing technique. Practice gratitude. Redirect or limit your negative thoughts. Choose happiness. Smile. Change your emotional language. Get professional help. Walk away from negativity. Surround yourself with positive people. Participate in active community service. Practice self-care. Engage in physical self-care. Practice mental self-care. Maintain your emotional self-care. Exercise. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Waste-Time-in-Class | How to Waste Time in Class | If you're bored in class, there are some fun, subtle ways you can waste time while you're waiting for it to be over. Try hiding your phone behind a book or in your lap so you can play games, scroll on social media, or text your friends. If you have friends in your class, start a group chat and see who can make everyone laugh the loudest. If you can't use your phone, try tearing out a sheet of paper from your notebook and making some origami with it. Or, you can draw a fake tattoo on yourself in pen or decorate the cover of your notebook by doodling on it. | Doodle in your notebook. Doodling is a great way to waste time in class because it just looks like you're taking notes. You can draw things like geometric shapes, crazy designs, or whatever you see outside the classroom window. You can even color your drawings in with colored pencils or markers. Make sure you have a page of notes to flip to in case your teacher walks by your desk. Make your drawing interact with the binder paper. Have a worm poke out of the binder ring hole, or a stick figure climb up the blue lines like a ladder. If you do plan on taking notes alongside your doodling, draw in the margins of your paper. This will free up the rest of the page for note taking. Make origami with sheets of notebook paper. With origami, the possibilities are endless. Tear out a sheet of paper and try making an origami crane , an origami heart , or an origami turtle. You can even make your own origami wallet. Make the origami in your lap below your desk so your teacher doesn't see you. You can also tilt your notebook back and use it as a barrier to do your origami behind. Most origami designs are made from square sheets of paper, so you should turn your binder paper into a square first. Draw a fake tattoo on yourself with a pen. Write your name on your wrist or draw a symbol like an arrow or a heart. If you like henna, draw a fake henna tattoo on the top of your hand using a pen instead of actual henna ink. If you need design ideas, look some up on your phone, or print them out before class to be more discreet. If you want something more subtle, draw a fake ring on your finger. It doesn't even have to be your actual "ring finger." Make a collage with sticky notes. Make the collage on a sheet of paper, the front of your notebook, or on your desk. You can make different shapes with the sticky notes, or do rows of different colors. When you're finished, you can draw on the sticky notes and rearrange them so they turn into a puzzle! For example, you could arrange the sticky notes in a square first, draw a picture, then take it apart. Try to put the picture back together again. Draw on your nails with marker. Fill all of your nails in using the same color, or mix and match colors for a wilder look. You can also take a black marker and draw intricate designs on your nails. Use markers, not pens. Pens don't color on nails very well. Pass a note back and forth with the person sitting next to you. You can make plans for after school, write about how bored you are, or draw each other funny pictures. Fold the note up into a tiny square so it's easier to pass back and forth. Don't pass the note until your teacher isn't looking or you could get caught! The note doesn't have to be a square. It can be a heart or even an origami frog. Make a paper airplane and play catch with someone. Use a sheet of your notebook paper to make the plane. Before you make it, write a note or draw a doodle for your friend on the paper. Then, toss it to them when your teacher isn't looking. You should only do this if you're certain that your classmates won't draw attention to it or tattle on you. Play games with your neighbor. You can play tic tac toe or dots and boxes in one of your notebooks. You can also play 20 questions by passing the questions and answers back and forth on a tiny piece of paper. Try playing "I spy." Pick a random object in the room, write a hint about what it is on a piece of paper, and pass it to your friend. They have to keep writing down their guesses and passing them to you. If they guess the object before class is over, they win! Another fun game to play is where you each write a sentence of a story. See how far you can get! If you are feeling more creative, you can pass a sheet of paper back and forth and add a doodle to it to complete a larger picture or scene. Text your friends funny jokes and pictures. If your friends are in the same class as you, even better. You can see who makes the other person laugh the loudest. Make sure your phone is on silent, and wait for your teacher to turn away so they don't catch you. Don't stare at your phone screen for too long or your teacher might get suspicious. Make a to-do list. Write down all the things you have to do after school, or make a list of your plans for the weekend. Your teacher won't even notice — they'll think you're taking notes! A shopping list is another great option. If you want something more fun, try listing all of your favorite bands, songs, shows, or books. Read a book. Open the book in your lap or hide it under a piece of paper on your desk so your teacher doesn't see. You might be able to get through a whole chapter by the time class is over. If you're worried about your teacher noticing, make a book cover for your book so your teacher can't tell what you're reading. Do your homework for a different class. Even though you might not feel like doing homework, getting it out of the way now means you won't have to do it later. Also, if you forgot to do your homework for a class you have after this one, you can do it now so it's not late. If you're having trouble focusing because of the background noise in class, try putting in headphones or earplugs. Just make sure they're not visible and that you can still hear what your teacher is saying in case you get called on. If wearing headphones or earplugs isn't an option, work on the easiest parts of your homework that don't require a lot of concentration. Play games on your phone. Turn the volume all the way down and hide your phone in your lap or behind a notebook. Play games that don't require a lot of attention so you're not staring at your phone screen the whole time. Use a stylus that looks like a pen to play the games on your phone so it looks like you're taking notes. If you are in a class where you are allowed to use laptops, you can play games on that instead. A simple card game will be more discreet than a fancy mmorpg. Look out the window to see if anything interesting is going on. You never know what might be going on outside — maybe there's a bird building a nest or a storm rolling through. Try to find something interesting to focus on and before you know it, class will be over! If you aren't near a window, you could try looking out the classroom door. See if you can find something interesting going on in the class across the hall. Alternatively, you can always study your fellow classmates. Look only at the people in front of you; the teacher will notice if you turn around to look at the people behind you. | Doodle in your notebook. Make origami with sheets of notebook paper. Draw a fake tattoo on yourself with a pen. Make a collage with sticky notes. Draw on your nails with marker. Pass a note back and forth with the person sitting next to you. Make a paper airplane and play catch with someone. Play games with your neighbor. Text your friends funny jokes and pictures. Make a to-do list. Read a book. Do your homework for a different class. Play games on your phone. Look out the window to see if anything interesting is going on. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Recover-From-a-Herniated-Disk | How to Recover From a Herniated Disk | To recover from a herniated disk, use cold packs like an ice pack or frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel to reduce any inflammation and swelling in the first few days. After that, switch to a hot water bottle or heating pad to increase blood flow and reduce pain. If your doctor prescribed any painkillers, take them as directed, or if not, use over-the-counter painkillers as necessary. You may need to rest for the first few days after your disk herniated, but when you feel up to it, try and do some light exercise like walking or swimming to prevent your muscles from stiffening up. If you find it difficult to get comfortable in bed, try lying on your stomach on pillows or lying in the fetal position to relieve pressure from your herniated disk. | Recognize the symptoms. The most frequent areas for herniated disks are in the lower spine and the neck. If your herniated disk is in your lower back, then you will probably have pain in your legs. If the herniated disk is in your neck, then your shoulder and arm will probably hurt. Symptoms include: Pain in your limbs. The pain may become more intense when you cough, sneeze, or move in certain ways. Numbness or feelings of pins and needles. This occurs when the nerves that run to that extremity are affected by the herniated disk. Weakness. If your lower back is affected you may be more likely to trip and fall. If your neck is affected, you may have difficulty carrying heavy items. Go to the doctor if you think you have a herniated disk. The doctor will do a medical exam to determine exactly where your pain comes from. The doctor will likely ask about your medical history including any recent injuries. The doctor may also test your: Reflexes Muscle strength Coordination, balance, and ability to walk Sense of touch. The doctor may test whether you feel light touches or vibrations on various different areas of your body. Ability to raise your leg or move your head. These movements stretch the spinal nerves. If you get increased pain, numbness, or pins and needles, it may suggest that a disk is herniated. Get imaging tests if your doctor recommends it. These tests can be used to exclude other possible causes of your pain and to let the doctor see exactly what is happening to your disks. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or think you could be pregnant because it may influence which tests the doctor recommends. An X-ray. Your doctor may ask you to get an X-ray to verify that your pain is not caused by an infection, tumor, broken bone, or misalignment of the bones in your spine. The doctor may also suggest a myelogram with the X-ray. This involves putting dye into your spinal fluid which will show up on an X-ray. It helps the doctor see where disks might be pressing on your nerves. A computerized tomography scan (CT scan). During a CT scan you will lie on a table that moves into the scanner. The scanner will take sequential X-rays of the area of interest. The doctor may ask you to hold your breath briefly to make sure the picture will be clear. It will not hurt, but you may be asked to fast for a few hours before the test or be given a contrast dye beforehand. The test will probably take about 20 minutes or less. This test can help the doctor determine exactly which disks are affected. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). An MRI scanner uses magnets and radio waves to create pictures of your body. An MRI is especially useful for determining exactly which disk has herniated and what nerves it might be pressing on. This test does not hurt, but requires that you lie on a table that will slide into the scanner. The scanner will make loud noises and you will probably get earphones or earplugs to wear. It may take up to an hour and a half. This is the most sensitive imaging test, but also the most expensive. Get nerve tests. If the doctor is concerned that you may have damage to your nerves, you may be asked to get nerve conduction tests and an electromyogram. During the nerve conduction tests the doctor may administer a small electrical pulse to determine if it is correctly conveyed to specific muscles. During the electromyogram, the doctor inserts a thin needle into your muscle to measure the electrical pulses that arrive. Both procedures may be uncomfortable. Apply ice or heat as needed. The Mayo Clinic recommends these as home remedies for dealing with the pain of a herniated disk. Which one you chose to use may depend on the stage of your injury. In the first few days, cold packs can help reduce inflammation and swelling. You can use an ice pack or package of frozen vegetables wrapped in a towel. Apply it for about 10 minutes, then give your skin a chance to warm up. Do not apply the cold pack directly to your skin. After the first few days, you can use warmth to relax tense muscles. Use a hot water bottle wrapped in a towel or a heating pad. Do not put the heat source directly on your bare skin to avoid burns. Stay active, if you can. You may need to rest for the first few days after the disk herniated, but after that, staying active will keep you from stiffening up and help you recover faster. Talk to your doctor or a physical therapist to find out what exercises they may recommend for you. Avoid doing activities that could make it worse. This may include carrying heavy items, lifting, or reaching. Your doctor may suggest swimming because the water will support your weight and relieve the pressure on your spine. Other possibilities include biking or walking. Try pelvic tilts if your doctor approves it. Lie on your back with your knees up and put your hand beneath your lower back. Tilt your pelvis so that you are pushing down on your hand. Hold it for five seconds. Repeat this 10 times. If this causes pain, stop and talk to your doctor. Do buttock squeezes. While lying on your back with your knees up, squeeze your buttocks together and hold it for five seconds. Repeat this 10 times. This should not cause pain. If it does, do not continue and discuss it with your doctor. Adjust your sleeping position. You may get relief by lying in positions that take the pressure off your spine and your nerves. Your doctor or physical therapist may suggest: Lying on your stomach on pillows so that your back is rounded. This may reduce the pressure on your nerves. Lying in the fetal position with a pillow between your knees. The side with the herniated disk should be up. Lying on your back and stacking pillows underneath your knees so that your hips and knees are bent and your lower legs are parallel to the bed. During the day you may want to lie on the floor and rest your legs on a chair. Get social support. Living with chronic pain is extremely stressful and can trigger depression and anxiety. Maintaining your social network will help you to cope and feel less alone. You can get social support by: Talking with friends and family. If there are physical activities that you can no longer do alone, let them help you. See a counselor. A counselor can help you learn coping techniques and determine if you have unrealistic expectations for your recovery. Your doctor may be able to recommend someone that specializes in helping people cope with pain. Join a support group. This may help you to feel less alone and to learn coping mechanisms. Manage stress. Stress makes you more sensitive to pain. By developing techniques for dealing with stress, you may be able to better handle the pain. Some people benefit from the following techniques: Meditation Deep breathing Music or art therapy Visualizing calming images Progressive tensing and relaxing the different muscle groups in your body Talk to a physical therapist about alternative therapies. There may be ways that you can change how you move or sit to avoid making your condition worse. You may also benefit from alternative methods of pain management, but always talk to your doctor to be sure that these methods will be safe for you. Possibilities include: Short-term bracing for your neck or back to protect it and give you stability Traction Ultrasound treatments Electrical stimulation Deal with moderate pain with over-the-counter painkillers. This is likely to be the doctor's first suggestion if your pain isn't too severe. Possible medications include ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB) or naproxen (Aleve). Though non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can be very helpful, they may not be right for you if you have high blood pressure, asthma, heart or kidney problems. Talk to your doctor about these medications before you start because they can interfere with other medications, including herbal remedies or dietary supplements. NSAIDS are especially known to cause gastric ulcers. Consult your doctor if over-the-counter medications do not help within 7 days. Combat severe pain with prescription medications. Depending upon your symptoms and medical history, your doctor may suggest: Nerve pain medications. These medications are increasing in their popularity because the side effects are often less severe than those produced by narcotics. Common ones include gabapentin (Neurotin, Gralise, Horizant), pregabalin (Lyrica), duloxetine (Cymbalta), and tramadol (Ultram). Narcotics. These medications are likely to be prescribed when over-the-counter medications weren't strong enough and nerve pain medications weren't helpful. They may cause side effects including sedation, nausea, confusion, and constipation. These medications often have codeine or a mixture of oxycodone and acetaminophen (Percocet, Oxycontin). Muscle relaxants. Some people get painful muscle spasms and these medications can help this. A common one is diazepam. Some muscle relaxants may cause sedation and dizziness, so they are best used at night, just before bed. Read the packaging to determine whether you should avoid driving or operating machinery while taking them. Get cortisone injections for the pain. Cortisone can suppress inflammation and swelling. If need be, your doctor may offer to give you an injection directly into the area that is causing the pain. Your doctor may also use oral steroids when trying to decrease swelling. Corticosteroids are often used to delay or possibly eliminate the need for surgery. The hope is that once the inflammation goes down, the body will naturally heal over the long-term. When given at high doses over the long-term, cortisone can cause weight gain, depression, diabetes, high blood pressure, osteoporosis, increased bruising, acne, and a vulnerability to infections. Discuss surgery with your doctor. Your doctor may recommend surgery if other options are not improving your symptoms, your nerves are badly compressed. There a few different types of surgery your doctor may suggest: Open discectomy. During this procedure the surgeon makes a cut into your spine and takes out the damaged part of the disk. If the damage is extensive, the surgeon may remove the whole disk. If the whole disk is removed, it may be necessary to fix the vertebrae around the missing disk to give you stability. This is called fusion. Prosthetic intervertebral disk replacement. During this procedure, after the surgeon removes the damaged disk, it is replaced with a prosthetic disk. Endoscopic laser discectomy. During this procedure the surgeon will make a small cut into your spine, then insert a thin tube that has a light and a camera on it (an endoscope). The damaged disc will then be removed using a laser. Follow your doctor’s instructions when recovering from surgery. Surgery helps most people who get it, but it may take you several weeks to recover. You may be able to go back to work after two weeks to a month and a half after the surgery. If you notice signs of any complications arising from the surgery, contact your doctor immediately. Though rare, possible complications include infections, damage to the nerves, paralysis, hemorrhaging, or temporarily losing sensitivity to touch. Spinal surgery works for a while. But if the patient fuses two vertebrae, the load is often transferred to the next adjacent vertebrae, which may require additional surgery. An important question to ask the doctor is if you may require additional surgeries in the future. | Recognize the symptoms. Go to the doctor if you think you have a herniated disk. Get imaging tests if your doctor recommends it. Get nerve tests. Apply ice or heat as needed. Stay active, if you can. Adjust your sleeping position. Get social support. Manage stress. Talk to a physical therapist about alternative therapies. Deal with moderate pain with over-the-counter painkillers. Combat severe pain with prescription medications. Get cortisone injections for the pain. Discuss surgery with your doctor. Follow your doctor’s instructions when recovering from surgery. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Start-an-Online-Store | How to Start an Online Store | To start an online store, start by registering a domain name that's short, catchy, and easy to remember. Then pick a web hosting service, and design your website or hire someone to design it for you. Next, research and select e-commerce software for your site, which allows customers to view and purchase your product. Finally, set up an account with a bank or another financial institution, like PayPal, so your customers can pay for your products with a credit card. | Decide what you want to sell. If you want to start an online store, you probably already have an idea for a great product to sell. Keep in mind that certain things are conducive to selling well online, while other items may be more difficult to sell when they can't be viewed in person. In any case, you should believe passionately in the value of your product - otherwise, it will be hard to connect with customers. Here are some questions to consider: Is it a physical product that needs to be shipped, or is it a digital product that can be sent through the Internet? Are you going to have an inventory (more than one) of each product, or will they be one-of-a-kind (e.g. artwork, vintage items)? Are you going to want to sell a wide variety of products, or do you plan to specialize, like selling just t-shirts or books? Are you creating the product yourself? If so, make sure you'll be able to keep up with demand. Form a relationship with a reliable supplier. If you don't plan to make the product yourself, you'll need a good manufacturer. Research different companies to find the one that works for your business idea. Decide how your product will be shipped. Create a plan to ship the product from your home efficiently, or work out a storage and shipping plan with a warehouse. You could also look into drop-shipping if the product is being manufactured by a third party. You are going to be intimately involved with your product or service. In order to effectively spread the word and market your store, you are going to need to socialize with people from this industry. Make sure the product is something you can get behind for the long haul. Find a niche. Knowing what product you want to sell is only part of creating a successful online store. You'll need to figure out what differentiates your services from all the other similar services people can choose, both in person or online. Why should a customer buy your hand-knit sweaters when they have 100 other online shops to choose from? Size up the competition. Don't just jump into selling a certain product line until you've looked at the websites you'll be competing with. Consider the main online marketplaces you plan to advertise your products; and check out the competition within those portals. Offer something truly original. If you're selling handmade crafts or works of art , the originality of your work may itself be the draw that sets your product apart. Try to strike a balance between something that is highly original and also has general appeal. Offer expertise. Perhaps the quality that sets your company apart from the rest will be your expertise on the type of product you are selling. Maybe you're a former baseball pro selling a line of baseball gloves, for example. Make your passion and expert knowledge part of the package. Offer a user-friendly purchasing process. Even if your product is very similar to other things for sale online, you can set your store apart by making the shopping experience fun and easy. Make sure your website is easy to navigate and fun to share. Be responsive and provide great customer service where others don't. Test the waters by selling your items on a small scale. In the real world, it'd be wise to try selling your products through other, low-commitment avenues (consignment, flea markets, craft shows , etc.) before taking the plunge and starting an entire store. The same is true for selling online. Try selling your items individually on eBay, Craigslist, Half.com and the like. Here's what you'll want to look for: Who is buying your product? Offer a discount coupon or free gift if they answer a brief survey. Find out where else they shop online. How much are they willing to pay? Experiment with different prices. How is customer satisfaction? This is a good time to test how well you can get your product to the customer. Are you using good packaging? Is the shipping method reliable? Are they happy with their product? Did you describe it well? Make a business plan. Before you start the process of opening your online store, take the time to draw up a detailed business plan, whether or not you're planning on getting outside funding from investors. It will help you plan the steps you'll need to take to make your business successful. Figure out your cost of operation and map out a marketing strategy. You'll want to take these factors into account: Production costs, whether you're creating your product yourself or contracting with a manufacturer. Shipping costs. Taxes. Employee wages, if applicable. Fees for reserving your domain name and web hosting service. Register your business according to your state's laws. When you're ready to make things official, you'll need to come up with a business name and fill out the necessary legal and tax paperwork to register your business. Register a domain name. Choose a name that's short, catchy, and easy to remember. It should also be unique, since the most obvious names are already taken. Look up a domain registration company and try different names until you find one that satisfies you and isn't already in use. If the name your heart is set on is already taken, get creative. Spell numbers out, add a small extra word or try hyphenation. The domain registration service will provide suggestions for close alternatives if the name you want is taken. Choose a web hosting service. It's worth finding a good service for your website, since the site is the backbone of your online store. If it's finicky, sales will certainly suffer. Free web hosting services are available, but since you're selling products online, you'll need to pay for a service that offers the options you need. You'll need enough space for growth if your business does well. Choose a hosting service that allows for customization if you're planning on doing your own programming. Design your website. Either design the website on your own or hire a web designer to create it for you. The emphasis should be on showcasing your product and making it as easy as possible for customers to make a purchase. Don't fall into the trap of making the website too flashy - the more straightforward, the better when it comes to online shopping. Include a way to gather email addresses, so you can send advertisements and special offers. The customer should have to make no more than two clicks to check out with a product. Choose just a few colors and fonts to use. Choose e-commerce software. This allows customers to view products and make a secure purchase. The software stores customer information and financial information. In some cases, e-commerce software factors into marketing, since it can be used to send emails to customers. Take a lot of time to research companies before making a choice, since the one you choose will play a huge role in your customers' experience and your company's success. Set up a merchant account. You'll need to set up an account with a bank financial institution so that your customers can pay with credit cards. Going with a bank can be pricey, so many small online store owners go with PayPal as a less expensive option. Research all-inclusive e-commerce services. If you don't have the inclination to set up your own website from scratch, there are plenty of services that offer a platform for an online store you can set up in just a few hours, for a very low cost. This way you will not have to learn how to code or hire a web designer, and you'll have all the tools you need to start selling your product right away. All-inclusive services usually take a small cut from each sale you make. The services have benefits, but there are also limitations, since you have to operate within their systems. Get familiar with the different services before choosing one. If you don't find one that suits the business model you have in mind, reconsider starting a new online store on your own. Consider general e-commerce services. Companies like Shopify and Yahoo! Stores will allow you to set up professional-looking online storefronts when you ship your own inventory. Hosted e-commerce solutions go further to provide storefront design, secure payment, hosting, mailing lists, selling statistics, customer support. This is attractive for those who don't want to do their own programming. Look into reselling products for a profit. Affiliate store services such as Amazon eStores LLC allow you to resell products carried by Buy.com and other merchants by writing reviews of products and focusing on a theme that makes consumers' lives easier. Amazon eStores stores allow you to get running quickly, but don't allow you to carry your own physical inventory. Take eBay to the next level. If you've already sold some stuff on eBay, and you're confident that most of your customer base will find you there, then you can "graduate" to an eBay store to save money on listing fees. If you haven't used eBay before, this approach may not be for you, since it's best to start with an existing customer base. Your customers will need to be web-savvy enough to feel comfortable using eBay. Note that eBay tends to attract people searching for bargains and one-of-a-kind items. Consider Tips for general sales. Tips is an online marketplace where you can post one item or create an entire catalog for free. You upload some photos, describe the items and price them to sell. It's free to post goods for months without having to update the listing. When the item sells and is $35 or less, it's a 5% fee. If the item is $35 or more, the fee is 3%. On top of putting goods up for sale you can embed videos, blog about your products and services and connect to your Twitter account directly from the site for free. if you're selling customized items. Try Cafepress Cafepress is a service worth considering if you're selling mostly t-shirts, and other stuff you can "stamp" with your unique designs, such as mugs, stickers, and buttons. Customers browse your store, order their stuff, and Cafepress processes the order and the items for you. You can start a basic shop for free, and pay a monthly subscription for more features. Sell crafts on Etsy. Etsy is a popular choice for people who make what they sell. There's a 20 cent charge for every item listed, and Etsy keeps 3.5% of your sale price if the item is sold. You get paid directly and are responsible for shipping the item. You're charged fees (depending on what sold) on a monthly basis. Try selling on Instagram. Instagram is world's most rapidly growing social network with highly engaged audience that is great for selling fashion items, handmade goods and products for home. Upload pictures of your items for sale to Instagram and then sync your account with inSelly.com to create personal online shop from Instagram pictures. Payments will be powered by PayPal, service doesn't take membership fees or sales commissions. Promote your store on Facebook and Twitter. Social media platforms are an important way for businesses, especially online businesses, to market themselves. Start an account and encourage people to "like" and "share" your store's page to spread the word. Offer incentives for customers to promote your store. You could offer a discount or a free giveaway for those who participate. Be sure to keep the accounts up to date with information on new products and deals. Start a blog. Pairing your products with expert knowledge is a great way to attract more people to your site. If your product is fashion-related, start a style blog that features some of your products from time to time. Find a way to participate in online conversations related to the product you are selling. Some all-inclusive services offer a blog feature as part of your "storefront." Feature other companies' products on your blog, and ask them to feature yours in return. This is a common practice among small online vendors. Send samples of your product to prominent bloggers or websites that do product reviews. Do guest posts on other people's blogs. For example, if you're selling homemade cookie mix, debut your product on a prominent baking blog. Email customers about promotions. Use an email program like MailChimp to organize customer email addresses and send well-formatted email blasts informing customers about special deals. Don't abuse this method of getting in touch with customers, though - they may end up unsubscribing if you send emails too often. | Decide what you want to sell. Find a niche. Test the waters by selling your items on a small scale. Make a business plan. Register your business according to your state's laws. Register a domain name. Choose a web hosting service. Design your website. Choose e-commerce software. Set up a merchant account. Research all-inclusive e-commerce services. Consider general e-commerce services. Look into reselling products for a profit. Take eBay to the next level. Consider Tips for general sales. if you're selling customized items. Sell crafts on Etsy. Try selling on Instagram. Promote your store on Facebook and Twitter. Start a blog. Email customers about promotions. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Potted-Plants | How to Grow Potted Plants | To grow potted plants, choose a container with holes at the bottom for drainage, and enough space for the plant to grow. Fill the pot with store-bought potting soil for the type of plant that you want to grow, and place the plant into the soil. Soak the soil with water after planting to encourage growth, and then water the plant on a regular schedule according to its needs. Place the pot in an area that gets the right amount of sunlight, and prune your plants when you see dead leaves. | Choose containers with drainage holes. Pots come in plenty of colors, shapes, and sizes, but the most important consideration is drainage. Make sure any container you purchase has small holes at the bottom so your plants' roots won't drown. If you can't live without a pot that doesn't have drainage holes, purchase a slightly smaller plastic container that has drainage holes and fits inside the pot without holes. Grab the saucer that matches your pot. A saucer fits under the pot, collects drained water, and prevents messes. Select light-loving plants if you plan to put them in full sun. The best location where you'll keep the pot depends on the type of plants you purchase. Keep plants with tags labelled “full-sun” in outdoor sun-soaked spots and indoor areas by windows. If you have a spot for the pot in mind, observe the area before purchasing your plants. Make sure it gets at least 6 hours of direct sunlight. If it doesn't, go for a plant marked for shade or partial sun. Full-sun options include most flowering plants, such as petunias, geraniums, salvias, true lilies, canna lilies, and lilacs. Other sun-loving plants include those that bear fruits and vegetables, like tomatoes, peppers, and cucumbers. Most herbs, including basil, lavender, and thyme, also require lots of sun. Opt for shade plants to put in spots that don’t get much sunlight. When you're at the nursery or home improvement store, check for plant tags marked “shade-tolerant” or “moderate sun.” This means the plants need around 3 hours of sunlight or less per day. Good flowering options include begonias, impatiens, crocuses, periwinkle, lilies of the valley, and some tulips. Ajuga and coleus are shade tolerant and produce attractive leaves in a range of colors. While they grow best with moderate sun, spider and snake plants tolerate low light levels. They're popular houseplants and require little maintenance. Use potting soil that has the right drainage requirements for your plants. Topsoil from your yard would dry out and clump, and store-bought garden soil is too dense to allow proper drainage. If you have a bag of garden soil and don't want to splurge on potting soil, combine equal parts of garden soil, peat moss, and perlite. Store-bought potting soil is the best choice for most plants. However, some have specific requirements. If you're planting orchids, you'll need to get a growing medium that's full of bark and other large chunks of organic matter. Fruits and vegetables prefer nutrient-rich clay or loam soils that retain moisture. Cacti and other succulents prefer well-drained, sandy soil. Go for a store-bought cactus mix or combine equal parts of sand and potting soil. Amend the soil if necessary to ensure it has the right pH. You can test your soil's pH and amend it to suit your plants' preferences. Add sphagnum peat or sulfur to make it more acidic, and powdered limestone or wood ashes to make it less acidic. Some plants, such as banksias and grevilleas, are phosphorus-sensitive and need a low-acid, low-phosphorus soil. On the other hand, camellias and azaleas thrive in phosphorus-rich acidic soil. When shopping for potting mixes, match the soil's pH and phosphorus levels to the recommendations on your plants' tags. Provide the right amount of space for your plants. Shrubs, like hibiscus , fuchsia, and bougainvillea, and plants that bear fruits and vegetables typically need lots of room to grow. Go for containers that are at least 1 to 2 feet (30 to 61 cm) deep and hold at least 5 to 10 gallons (19 to 38 L) of soil. Plants like rubber trees, tomatoes, peppers, and carrots usually do best on their own. They have large root systems and consume lots of nutrients. Plants with more modest root systems, like pansies, dusty millers, daisies, ajugas, creeping Jenny, and succulents, do well with other plants. To allow room for growth, space them about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) apart, or according to the instructions on their tags. Fill the bottom third of the pot with rocks, broken pots, or foam peanuts. Unless you're planting a small tree or shrub with an extensive root system, line the bottom of the container with rocks, shards of broken pots, foam packing peanuts, or crushed cans and milk jugs. Fill the container about 1/4 to 1/3 with your choice of material. Filler material will encourage drainage and reduce the amount of soil you'll need, which can get expensive. Smaller objects, like rocks and pieces of broken pots, are great for drainage-loving succulents and herbs planted in small pots. Use larger objects, like cans and milk jugs, for larger containers. Limit the amount of drainage material you use for plants with extensive root systems, such as small citrus trees, hibiscus and other shrubs, tomatoes, and strawberries. A 1 to 2 inch (2.5 to 5.1 cm) layer of rocks or broken pot shards will provide drainage without smothering the roots. Add soil to within 2 inches (5.1 cm) of the container’s rim. Dump the bag of potting soil into a large container, or use a trowel to fill a small pot. Keep the soil loose, and shake the pot to even out mounds instead of packing it. Leaving about 2 inches (5.1 cm) between the top of the soil and the container's rim will allow you to water the container without it spilling over the edge. The space between the soil and rim will also give you room to scoop out holes for the plants. Water your plants thoroughly, then knock them out of their plastic cup. Soak your plants to prepare them for transplant. Pick one up, and place your hand on top of the cup so the plant's stem is between your fingers. Turn the cup upside down and carefully squeeze the sides of the cup to remove the roots and soil ball. Don't pull the stem to remove the plant from the cup, and try to disturb the roots as little as possible. Knock the plants out of their cups one by one. Remove a plant from its cup, transplant it, then move on to the next. Massage the root ball gently to encourage growth. After removing the cup, lightly massage the roots with your fingertips to loosen them from the soil. Don't unravel the root ball, rub hard, or work away all of the soil. You just want to loosen the roots a bit to encourage them to spread out in their new home. Dig a hole equal in size to the plant's root ball. Dig a hole in the center of the soil bed large enough to accommodate the root ball. It should be deep enough so the crown (where the roots meet the stem) will be level with the top of the soil. Place the root ball in the hole, then fill in soil to level the surface. If you're just growing one plant in an individual pot, you don't have to worry about planning the arrangement or spacing other plants. Place the tallest plants in the middle, if you’re using a variety of plants. Start by scooping a hole in the center for the tallest plant. Place the root system in the hole so the plant's crown is level with the top of the soil, then fill in the hole so the surface is even. For example, if you have tall grass, spiky Dracena, or phormium, plant it in the center of the pot. Provided you have a deep enough pot, azaleas, hibiscus, and elephant ears work well as tall focal points. Add smaller plants closer to the container’s edges. When you're finished with the tallest plant, work your way toward the edges as you you plant flowers, vines, or other smaller specimens. Create a middle layer of flowering or brightly-colored plants, and place vines that will spill out over the sides of the pot about 2 inches (5.1 cm) from the edges. Great filler plants include coleus, ajugas, and hostas. Petunias, salvias, pansies, and geraniums are popular choices that add pops of color. Good spillers, or plants with foliage that trails over the pot's edges, include creeping Jenny, clematis, English ivy, and sedum. Space the plants about 4 to 6 inches (10 to 15 cm) apart from each other, or according to the instructions on their tags. Don't worry if the container looks a bit sparse. Your plants need room to grow, and they'll fill in empty spaces within a few weeks. Soak the soil when you finish planting. Thoroughly soaking the soil will help prevent transplant shock. Water the container until the pot starts to drain and the top of the soil is saturated. Depending on the container's size, it could take several minutes to water it completely. Water will drain from the bottom of the container, so be sure to place the pot on a saucer. Stop watering when you see water leaking from the drainage holes at the bottom. Room temperature water is ideal, especially for tropical plants, like elephant ear, bougainvillea, and orchids. If water from your hose or faucet feels ice cold, fill a pitcher or watering can and allow it to warm to room temperature. Tap water is usually fine, as long as you don't use water softeners. Water treated with softeners can cause salt buildup. Distilled water is best for carnivorous plants, like pitcher plants and Venus fly traps. They prefer low-nutrient soil and don't like the minerals in tap water. Keep a saucer under the pot to catch drained water. A saucer will prevent dirty water from pooling on your floor, windowsill or desk. Empty the saucer about an hour after watering to prevent root rot. If the container is too heavy to lift and you can't remove the saucer, use a bulb baster to suck up the water. Water the pot when the soil is dry or according to the tag’s instructions. The right amount of water depends on your plants, the size of your container, and whether you keep the pot indoors or outdoors. As a general rule, stick your finger into the soil and water only when it's dry. If the soil is moist and your finger can easily penetrate it, don't water the pot. If the soil feels dry and your finger can't easily penetrate it, your plant needs water. For most plants, watering thoroughly and letting the soil dry completely is better than keeping the soil damp. Most flowering plants, fruits, vegetables, and herbs need to be watered daily. Cacti and other succulents should only be watered every 2 to 4 days at most. When in doubt, check your plants' tags and water them as directed. Add slow-release fertilizer beads monthly, or as the tag recommends. Nutrients leech from the soil every time you water, so you'll need to fertilize your potted plant regularly. All-purpose fertilizer beads that release nutrients over time are good for most plants, but you should check plant tags for specific instructions. Use about 1/2 teaspoon of fertilizer beads for 1 gallon (3.8 L) of soil. Spread the granules over the soil, and use your fingers or a small trowel to work it about 2 inches (5.1 cm) deep. In general, flowering plants, fruits, and vegetables need more nutrients than herbs and succulents. During mid-season, or when they produce ripe fruit, fertilize plants like tomatoes and peppers every 1 to 2 weeks. Keep an eye out for yellow leaves, which could indicate you're over-fertilizing. You don't have to be fussy about fertilizing herbs, like basil, cilantro, lavender, and rosemary. They're prone to over-fertilization, so 1 application every 3 to 4 months is best. Cacti and other succulents only need to be fertilized once or twice a year. Prune your plants whenever you see dead leaves. Use clean pruning shears to cut dead flowers and leaves. Trim them at a 45 degree angle just below the brown or dead area. Clip new growth at a 45 degree angle about ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm) above the nodule to keep a rapidly growing plant in check. The nodule looks like a small bump or bud where new growth emerges. If you're clipping herbs or pruning a rapid grower, avoid removing more than 30% of the plant at a time. Clipping too much can shock and kill the plant. Pruning encourages new growth and will lead to fuller, more robust plants. Cut off any part of the plant that has rot or fungus. In addition to regular pruning, you'll need to remove diseased leaves as soon as you spot them. Signs of disease include black or brown spots, yellowing, white patches, and foul odor. If the problem persists, purchase an antifungal spray labelled for plants. Look for a fungicide formulated for your specific plant at a gardening center. Read its instructions, and apply it as directed. Common plant diseases include black or white fungal and bacterial blights, fungal rusts (which are characterized by a rust-colored coating), and cankers, or areas of dead, oozing tissue on wood stems. Apply insecticide, if the plant becomes infested with pests. If you need to deal with pests, look for a plant insecticide at a garden center. If you keep your plant indoors, make sure the product is labelled for houseplants. Read your product's instructions and use it as directed. Most plant insecticides are recommended for specific plants, which are listed on the label. Check labels for your plants or ask an employee at the garden center for help. Common pests include aphids, ants, gnats, spider mites, and whiteflies. While aphids, ants, and flies are visible, mites are tough to spot. Look for patches of fine webbing with tiny, barely visible specks. Signs of mite infestation include tiny light green spots on leaves and stems, yellow discoloration, and curled or dead leaves. | Choose containers with drainage holes. Select light-loving plants if you plan to put them in full sun. Opt for shade plants to put in spots that don’t get much sunlight. Use potting soil that has the right drainage requirements for your plants. Amend the soil if necessary to ensure it has the right pH. Provide the right amount of space for your plants. Fill the bottom third of the pot with rocks, broken pots, or foam peanuts. Add soil to within 2 inches (5.1 cm) of the container’s rim. Water your plants thoroughly, then knock them out of their plastic cup. Massage the root ball gently to encourage growth. Dig a hole equal in size to the plant's root ball. Place the tallest plants in the middle, if you’re using a variety of plants. Add smaller plants closer to the container’s edges. Soak the soil when you finish planting. Keep a saucer under the pot to catch drained water. Water the pot when the soil is dry or according to the tag’s instructions. Add slow-release fertilizer beads monthly, or as the tag recommends. Prune your plants whenever you see dead leaves. Cut off any part of the plant that has rot or fungus. Apply insecticide, if the plant becomes infested with pests. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Substitute-for-Toilet-Paper | How to Make a Substitute for Toilet Paper | If you're out of toilet paper, there are several substitutes you can use until you're able to get some more. One option is to use wet wipes or baby wipes. If you're in a bind, you can also use crumpled up pieces of paper. Crumpling the paper multiple times helps to soften it. Any kind of paper will work, like paper towels, newspaper, napkins, or printer paper. Another option is to make reusable cloth toilet paper. Cut some soft fabric into squares and store them in your bathroom. When you're finished using one, toss it in a sealed container to be washed later. | Tear up rags for a trial run. Wash whatever rags or old clothing you have around. Tear them into squares measuring 4x4 inch (10x10 cm) or larger. Try a sports jersey or washcloth, since these tend not to fray. This is a cheap way to try out the idea. Keep reading for more durable options, followed by instructions for use. Make your own from flannel. With a little initial expense, you can make a long-lasting, comfortable "toilet paper." In the long run, it will make a big difference in household expense and environmental impact. Here's how: Buy a yard of cotton flannel from a fabric store. Choose a patterned cloth to hide stains. If your family is squeamish about sharing these, buy one pattern per person. Cut into squares between 4 and 6 inches (10–15 cm) on each side. Ideally, use pinking shears to reduce fraying. Optionally, stitch around the edges with a serger, preventing fraying. Flannel rarely frays anyway, so this is not required. Set up your storage system. Set up an open container for the clean cloths. Choose a second container with a lid for the used cloths. Ideally, use a small trash can that you can open by stepping on a pedal. Line this with a pillowcase so you can easily transfer the cloth to the washing machine. Some people add water and vinegar to the used container to disinfect the cloths. A wet container becomes much smellier and grosser than a dry one, so this is not recommended. This may not even reduce bacteria, since they thrive in moisture. Place a "Cloth only" sign on the used container. Wet before wiping (optional). You can use the cloth toilet paper dry, which keeps odor low in the used container. However, a little water might make the cloth more comfortable and easier to wash. There are several ways to add this to your bathroom routine: Wet the cloth in the sink or with a spray bottle before wiping. Rinse yourself with a bidet before wiping. Dampen the stack of clean cloths each time you load the container. Due to the risk of mildew, you'll need to wash remaining cloths every two or three days. Wipe as usual. There's no special trick here. Cloth will clog the plumbing if flushed, so tell the household to use the container for used cloth. You can use "personal cloth" for both urine and feces. Some households choose to use it only for urine, and stick to regular toilet paper for feces. Wash the cloth. About every two or four days, toss the pillowcase and the used cloth into the washing machine. You can combine them with any other laundry except for towels, kitchen cloths, or jeans (which may trap the cloth in pockets). To ensure they are disinfected, follow these guidelines: Agitation is an important part of cleaning. Wash laundry loads large enough to rub against each other, without tightly packing the machine. If residue remains, increase the length of washing or the amount of detergent or (for high-efficiency washers) the amount of water. Use the high-temperature setting. Add bleach to the laundry, or sun-dry as a more eco-friendly disinfectant. Rinse with a spray bottle. Spray yourself clean with a peri bottle, or any other water-spraying device. You can find a peri bottle in a pharmacy or baby supply aisle. Identify soft leaves. Most leaves are scratchy and unpleasant. A few species are soft enough to earn the names "cowboy's" or "lumberjack's toilet paper." Look these up in a local wildlife guide before your camping trip: Common mullein ( Verbascum thapsus ), found throughout the world. Lamb's ear ( Stachys byzantina ), native to Asia but cultivated in most temperate climates. Pine needles still attached to the branch. This may not be as comfortable as other options, but the natural brush shape makes it easy to wipe. Moss is comfortable, but messy if it falls apart. Use a smooth stone. An oval river stone is a common wiping tool in cultures without toilet paper. It sounds strange, but these are easy to find and comfortable to grip. Just make sure not to point any sharp edges at the wrong place. Carry around a tissue pack. Stick a travel-size pack of tissues in your purse or luggage. This is the next closest thing to toilet paper. Prepare the cardboard paper roll. You know that cardboard tube that's still hanging up on the roll when all the toilet paper is gone? Start peeling the layers of paper off it until you have enough to wipe with. Wet it at the sink to make it soft and comfortable. Flush when done. Wipe with a sponge. Although popular among the Romans, this method is no longer considered a great idea. Sponges pick up filth and bacteria quickly, so you'd better know where the sponge has been. After you're done, submerge the sponge in diluted bleach, any product containing quaternary ammonium, or boiling water. Take it out after five minutes. | Tear up rags for a trial run. Make your own from flannel. Set up your storage system. Wet before wiping (optional). Wipe as usual. Wash the cloth. Rinse with a spray bottle. Identify soft leaves. Use a smooth stone. Carry around a tissue pack. Prepare the cardboard paper roll. Wipe with a sponge. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-Hostas | How to Care for Hostas | To care for hostas, water them at the base whenever the soil begins to look dry so its always moist and the leaves stay green. You'll also want to cut your hostas back to a couple of inches after the first frost so they'll return strong in the spring. In addition to cutting them back, compost the soil they're in and put down a layer of mulch to help retain moisture. After 3-4 years, dig the hostas up to divide them at the root, which helps maintain the overall quality of the plants and multiplies your hostas! | Choose a planting site. Hostas do well in partially shady areas, making them a great choice for planting under trees or near taller plants in your garden. They need soil that drains well and will stay evenly moist. The type of hosta you choose should also factor into where you decide to plant it; if your hosta is capable of getting quite tall, make sure you plant it in a place where it will get ample shade from the sun once it grows larger than the plants around it. Since hosta roots crowd out the roots of weeds, they are a good choice for use as a ground cover. If you're going to use them for this purpose, however, you need to be sure the planting site is sufficiently shady. Make sure the site you choose is not too windy. Choose a place that is sheltered from winds exceeding 35 mph (56 km/h). Plant hostas in the spring. Planting hostas in the early spring, after the last frost has occurred, gives them time to take root and settle in before the hot summer months arrive. Prepare the soil for planting. Hostas do well in most climates and thrive in moist soil, but they're at their best in average or damp soils that are slightly acidic. Prepare the planting site by using a garden rake or hoe to loosen the soil to a depth of about a foot, then mixing it with a light application of fertilizer or compost. This will enrich the soil and help the hostas do well in a variety of weather conditions. Dig holes for the hostas. The holes should be as deep as the root ball and twice as wide. Space the holes 1 to 3 feet (0.3 to 0.9 m) apart, depending on what variety you are planting. Plant the hostas. Set the hostas into the holes so that the top of the root ball is level with the ground. Fill in the hole with soil and pat it gently around the base of the plants. Water the planted hostas well. Water your hostas frequently. Hostas will wilt and turn brown if their soil gets too dry, so make sure to water them frequently to keep the soil moist. Water hostas under the foliage at their bases to prevent the leaves from getting burned by the sun. Watering hostas in the morning will help keep them hydrated during hotter parts of the day during the summer. You can sprinkle mulch around the bases of the hostas to help keep the soil moist. Cut hostas back after the first frost. Hostas don't stay green all winter, so after the first frost of fall, you'll probably want to cut them back - otherwise they'll look dried out and dead all winter long. Use pruning shears or a scissors to cut them back to a couple of inches. They'll come back out in the spring. You can also cut hostas flowers. Whether you cut your hostas when they're flowering or once the bloom has faded is up to you! Compost the soil in the spring. At the beginning of the growing season, help bring the hostas back by adding compost to the soil. Add a layer of mulch to help retain moisture. Water the area thoroughly to help the new growth emerge. Divide your hostas after 3 or 4 years. Hostas are quite durable, and it's easy to divide them to share with friends or plant in other areas of your garden. To divide a hosta, lift it out of the ground and separate a few stems and their roots from the main part of the plant. This is best done in early spring, when the leaves are still curled, but you can do it at any point during the summer if your plants are healthy. This will help maintain the overall quality of your Hostas and will make doubling your Hosta population easier. Protect your Hostas from pests. Hostas are favorites of deer, snails, and slugs. If these animals are common in the area you live, take precautions to protect against these species. Keep deer away by building a fence around your yard, or luring them to the edges with other deer-friendly plants. Many gardeners find that setting out shallow bowls of beer around the hostas is an effective way to get rid of slugs. Eliminate black vine weevil with an insecticide soap. Prevent nematodes by removing or drying overly wet foliate. If you see nematodes, which look like roundworms and feed on leaves, remove affected plants and destroy them. Protect your hostas from disease. Maintaining the correct watering, mulch, and conditions are the key to keeping disease away from your hostas. Here are some measures you can take to prevent and combat disease: Use fungicide spray if you see large spots with a dark border on your hostas, as this could be a sign of Anthracnose. Fight Anthracnose by preventing your hosta plants from getting too wet. If you see brown and wilted leaves along with white masses on the plant, pull any mulch away from the hostas, as this could be a sign of Sclerotium Blight. Water responsibly and prevent your hosta plants from getting too wet in order to combat Crown Rot. | Choose a planting site. Plant hostas in the spring. Prepare the soil for planting. Dig holes for the hostas. Plant the hostas. Water your hostas frequently. Cut hostas back after the first frost. Compost the soil in the spring. Divide your hostas after 3 or 4 years. Protect your Hostas from pests. Protect your hostas from disease. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Solve-Exponential-Equations | How to Solve Exponential Equations | To solve exponential equations with the same base, which is the big number in an exponential expression, start by rewriting the equation without the bases so you're left with just the exponents. Then, solve the new equation by isolating the variable on one side. To check your work, plug your answer into the original equation, and solve the equation to see if the two sides are equal. If they are, your answer is correct. | Determine whether the two exponents have the same base. The base is the big number in an exponential expression. You can only use this method when you are presented with an equation that has an exponent on either side, and each exponent has the same base. For example, 6 5 + y = 6 3 {\displaystyle 6^{5+y}=6^{3}} has an exponent on either side of the equation, and each exponent has the same base (6). Ignore the base. Since the exponents are equal and have the same base, their exponents must be equal. As such, you can ignore the base and write an equation for the exponents only. For example, in the equation 6 5 + y = 6 3 {\displaystyle 6^{5+y}=6^{3}} , since both exponents have the same base, you would write an equation for the exponents: 5 + y = 3 {\displaystyle 5+y=3}. Solve the equation. To do this, you need to isolate the variable. Remember that whatever you do to one side of an equation, you must do to the other side of the equation. For example: 5 + y = 3 {\displaystyle 5+y=3} 5 + y − 5 = 3 − 5 {\displaystyle 5+y-5=3-5} y = − 2 {\displaystyle y=-2} Check your work. To make sure that your answer is correct, plug the value you found for the variable back into the original equation, and simplify the expression. The two sides should be equal. For example, if you found that y = − 2 {\displaystyle y=-2} , you would substitute − 2 {\displaystyle -2} for y {\displaystyle y} in the original equation: 6 5 + y = 6 3 {\displaystyle 6^{5+y}=6^{3}} 6 5 − 2 = 6 3 {\displaystyle 6^{5-2}=6^{3}} 6 3 = 6 3 {\displaystyle 6^{3}=6^{3}} Isolate the exponential expression. Make sure that there is an exponential expression on one side of the equation, and a whole number on the other side. If not, you need to rework the equation so that the exponent is alone on one side. For example, if your are trying to solve 3 x − 5 − 2 = 79 {\displaystyle 3^{x-5}-2=79} , you first need to isolate 3 x − 5 {\displaystyle 3^{x-5}} by adding 2 to each side of the equation: 3 x − 5 − 2 = 79 {\displaystyle 3^{x-5}-2=79} 3 x − 5 − 2 + 2 = 79 + 2 {\displaystyle 3^{x-5}-2+2=79+2} 3 x − 5 = 81 {\displaystyle 3^{x-5}=81} Rewrite the equation. You need to determine whether the whole number can be converted to an exponent with the same base as the other exponent. If you can't convert the whole number in this way, you cannot use this method. For example, look at the equation 3 x − 5 = 81 {\displaystyle 3^{x-5}=81}. You need to change 81 to an exponent with a base of 3, so that it matches the other exponential expression in the equation. By factoring out 3, you should see that 3 × 3 × 3 × 3 = 81 {\displaystyle 3\times 3\times 3\times 3=81} , so 3 4 = 81 {\displaystyle 3^{4}=81}. The new equation then becomes 3 x − 5 = 3 4 {\displaystyle 3^{x-5}=3^{4}}. Write the equation for the exponents only. Since you converted the whole number, you now have two exponential expressions with the same base. Since the bases are the same, you can ignore them and focus on the exponents. For example, since 3 x − 5 = 3 4 {\displaystyle 3^{x-5}=3^{4}} has two exponents with a base of 3, you can ignore the base and simply look at the equation x − 5 = 4 {\displaystyle x-5=4}. Solve for the variable. To do this, you need to isolate the variable on one side of the equation. Make sure that whatever you do to one side, you also do to the other side. For example: x − 5 = 4 {\displaystyle x-5=4} x − 5 + 5 = 4 + 5 {\displaystyle x-5+5=4+5} x = 9 {\displaystyle x=9} Check your work. You can see if your answer is correct by plugging the solution you found back into the original equation. After simplifying each expression, both sides of the equation should be equal. If they aren't, you miscalculated and need to try again. For example, if you found that x = 9 {\displaystyle x=9} , you would plug in 9 {\displaystyle 9} for x {\displaystyle x} in the original equation and simplify: 3 x − 5 = 81 {\displaystyle 3^{x-5}=81} 3 9 − 5 = 81 {\displaystyle 3^{9-5}=81} 3 4 = 81 {\displaystyle 3^{4}=81} 81 = 81 {\displaystyle 81=81} Make sure that the exponential expression is isolated. One side of the equation should be the exponent, the other should be the whole number. If not, modify the equation so the exponent is alone on one side. For example, you need to isolate the expression 4 3 + x {\displaystyle 4^{3+x}} in the equation 4 3 + x − 8 = 17 {\displaystyle 4^{3+x}-8=17} by adding 8 to both sides: 4 3 + x − 8 = 17 {\displaystyle 4^{3+x}-8=17} 4 3 + x − 8 + 8 = 17 + 8 {\displaystyle 4^{3+x}-8+8=17+8} 4 3 + x = 25 {\displaystyle 4^{3+x}=25} Rewrite the equation. Set up the equation so that you are taking the log of both sides. A log is the inverse of an exponent.. You can find a base-10 log using most scientific calculators. For now, you are just rewriting the equation, indicating you are taking the log of each side. For example, if you take the base-10 log of both sides of 4 3 + x = 25 {\displaystyle 4^{3+x}=25} , you would rewrite the equation like this: log 4 3 + x = log 25 {\displaystyle {\text{log}}4^{3+x}={\text{log}}25}. Rewrite the log of the exponent. Rewrite it using the rule log a r = r log a {\displaystyle {\text{log}}a^{r}=r{\text{log}}a}. Rewriting the exponential expression this way will allow you to simplify and solve the equation. Do not calculate the logs yet. For example, log 4 3 + x = log 25 {\displaystyle {\text{log}}4^{3+x}={\text{log}}25} can be rewritten as ( 3 + x ) log 4 = log 25 {\displaystyle (3+x){\text{log}}4={\text{log}}25} Isolate the variable. To solve, you need to rewrite the equation so that one side contains the variable, and the other side contains all of the numbers. You will need to divide each side of the equation by the log of the exponential expression. You will also need to add or subtract any constants to both sides, and perform any other necessary operations. For example, to isolate the x {\displaystyle x} in ( 3 + x ) log 4 = log 25 {\displaystyle (3+x){\text{log}}4={\text{log}}25} , you first need to divide each side of the equation by log 4 {\displaystyle {\text{log}}4} , then subtract 3 from both sides: ( 3 + x ) log 4 = log 25 {\displaystyle (3+x){\text{log}}4={\text{log}}25} ( 3 + x ) log 4 log 4 = log 25 log 4 {\displaystyle (3+x){\frac {{\text{log}}4}{{\text{log}}4}}={\frac {{\text{log}}25}{{\text{log}}4}}} 3 + x = log 25 log 4 {\displaystyle 3+x={\frac {{\text{log}}25}{{\text{log}}4}}} 3 + x − 3 = log 25 log 4 − 3 {\displaystyle 3+x-3={\frac {{\text{log}}25}{{\text{log}}4}}-3} x = log 25 log 4 − 3 {\displaystyle x={\frac {{\text{log}}25}{{\text{log}}4}}-3} Find the logs in the equation. You can do this using a scientific calculator. Type the number you are finding the log of, then hit the LOG {\displaystyle {\text{LOG}}} button. Rewrite the equation using these new values for the logs. For example, to find log 25 {\displaystyle {\text{log}}25} , hit 25 {\displaystyle 25} , then LOG {\displaystyle {\text{LOG}}} on your calculator, to get about 1.3979. To find log 4 {\displaystyle {\text{log}}4} , hit 4 {\displaystyle 4} , then LOG {\displaystyle {\text{LOG}}} on your calculator, to get about 0.602. You new equation will now be x = 1.3979 0.602 − 3 {\displaystyle x={\frac {1.3979}{0.602}}-3}. Complete the calculations. This will give you the value of the variable. Your answer will be approximate since you rounded when finding the logs. Remember to use the order of operations when making your calculations. For more instructions on how to calculate using the order of operations, read Evaluate an Expression Using PEMDAS. For example, in x = 1.3979 0.602 − 3 {\displaystyle x={\frac {1.3979}{0.602}}-3} you should divide first, then subtract: x = 1.3979 0.602 − 3 {\displaystyle x={\frac {1.3979}{0.602}}-3} x = 2.322 − 3 {\displaystyle x=2.322-3} x = − 0.678 {\displaystyle x=-0.678}. | Determine whether the two exponents have the same base. Ignore the base. Solve the equation. Check your work. Isolate the exponential expression. Rewrite the equation. Write the equation for the exponents only. Solve for the variable. Check your work. Make sure that the exponential expression is isolated. Rewrite the equation. Rewrite the log of the exponent. Isolate the variable. Find the logs in the equation. Complete the calculations. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Chevron-Friendship-Bracelet | How to Make a Chevron Friendship Bracelet | To make a chevron friendship bracelet, cut at least 6 strands of craft thread so they're 60 to 65 inches long. Tie a knot at the end of the strands and tape it to a work surface. Arrange the thread so the two outer strands are the same color, and so on going inward. Next take the outer right string, tie a right knot twice on the second to the right string, and work your way to the middle. Repeat this process on the left side, then connect the two middle strands. Once you reach the desired length, knot it off. | Prepare the embroidery floss. Cut the embroidery floss or craft thread about 60–65 inches (152.4–165.1 cm) for each color depending on your wrist size. You'll need at least six strands of string (two strands of three colors), but you can use any even number of strands. The more strings you use, the more complex your color arrangements will be and the wider the width of your bracelet. Use whatever colors you want; just make sure that you have two strands of every single color that you choose. Secure the strands. Tie a knot at the end of the strands of string and secure it in any number of ways to make it easier to hold steady while you finish the bracelet. You can clip it to your clipboard, safety pin it to your pants or a pillow, or tape it to your work surface. You can also use a binder clip with a binder or book. Alternatively, you can just tie it to a drawer handle. Arrange the strands. Using the thread, make a mirror-image pattern so that the two outside strands are the same color and so on going inwards. Pretend there is an imaginary line in the middle and create the same color pattern with the string on both sides of the line. Begin the right knots. Starting with the outer-right string, tie a right knot twice on the adjacent string (the second from the right). To tie a right knot, make a ninety-degree angle with the tying string over the top of the string you are tying it to. Then loop the tying string underneath the other string and pull tight. Note: Remember to make two knots on each string. Once you have knotted the outer right string to the one next to it, do the same to the next string closer to the middle. Continue this process until you've reached the middle. Note: The string you began tying with (the outermost right string) should now be in the middle. Begin the left knots. From the left side, tie left knots with the outer-left strand until you reach the middle. To tie a left knot, do the same as the right knot but reversed. Make a ninety-degree angle with the tying string over the top of the string you are tying it to and loop the tying string under the other string and pull it tight. Tie the middle knots. Tie a left or right knot (doesn't matter) with the two middle strands to connect the two sides (be sure to tie the knot twice). Note: If you have done everything correctly up to this point, the strands you are tying together in the middle will be the same color and you will begin to see the V-pattern emerge. Continue the pattern. Repeat steps 4, 5, and 6 until you reach the desired length, always starting with the outermost strands on each side. These strands should always be the same color. Finish the bracelet. Tie a knot at the end of the pattern and use the excess string to tie the bracelet onto your wrist or the wrist of a friend. Alternatively, you can create a button-loop closure for the bracelet. Attach a button to one side by pulling any two strands through the holes in the button. Then, tie the strands together and cut off the excess of all strands (even the ones not used for the button). On the other end of the bracelet, there should already be a loop that exists between the knot at the end and the place where the knots begin. Pull the button through the loop once you have finished all the steps. Prepare the embroidery floss. For this bracelet, you'll need four different colors of thread. Cut two strands of each color that measure about 65 inches each. This should leave you with eight strands. Once you've cut all of the thread, fold the bundle of strands in half and cut at the center. This will leave you with 16 strands in total. Secure the strands. Tie a knot in one end of the string and secure it to a flat surface you can work on with some sturdy tape (like masking tape or duct tape). Alternatively, you can safety pin it to your pants, tie it to a dresser drawer, or clip it on a clipboard. Arrange the strands. Using the thread, make a mirror-image pattern that repeats twice so that there are two exact replicas of the same pattern right next to each other. For example, your pattern may look like this: 1 2 3 4 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 4 3 2 1 Pretend there is an imaginary line in the middle and create the same color pattern with the string on both sides of the line. Then repeat this pattern again. Begin the right knots. Starting with the outer-right string, tie a right knot twice on the adjacent string (the second from the right). To tie a right knot, make a ninety-degree angle with the tying string over the top of the string you are tying it to. Then loop the tying string underneath the other string and pull tight. Note: Remember to make two knots on each string. Once you have knotted the outer right string to the one next to it, do the same to the next string closer to the middle. Continue this process until you've reached the middle. Note: The string you began tying with (the outermost right string) should now be in the middle. Begin the left knots. Take the far left string from the middle and tie left knots with the outer-left strand until you reach the middle. To tie a left knot, do the same as the right knot but reversed. Make a ninety-degree angle with the tying string over the top of the string you are tying it to and loop the tying string under the other string and pull it tight. This will complete one side of the double mirror image. Complete the other half. Repeat Steps 4 and 5 for the left side of the double chevron pattern. Tie the middle knots. Tie a left or right knot (doesn't matter) with the two middle strands to connect the two sides. Be sure to tie the middle knot twice. Note: If you have done everything correctly up to this point, the strands you are tying together in the middle will be the same color and you will begin to see the double V-pattern emerge. Continue the pattern. Repeat steps 4, 5, and 6 until you reach the desired length, always starting with the middle-most strands and moving outward in each direction to complete the double mirror-image pattern (1 2 3 4 4 3 2 1 1 2 3 4 4 3 2 1). Finish the bracelet. Tie a knot at the end of the pattern and use the excess string to tie the bracelet onto your wrist or the wrist of a friend. Alternatively, you can create a button-loop closure for the bracelet. Attach a button to one side by pulling any two strands through the holes in the button. Then, tie the strands together and cut off the excess of all strands (even the ones not used for the button). On the other end of the bracelet, there should already be a loop that exists between the knot at the end and the place where the knots begin. Pull the button through the loop once you have finished all the steps. | Prepare the embroidery floss. Secure the strands. Arrange the strands. Begin the right knots. Begin the left knots. Tie the middle knots. Continue the pattern. Finish the bracelet. Prepare the embroidery floss. Secure the strands. Arrange the strands. Begin the right knots. Begin the left knots. Complete the other half. Tie the middle knots. Continue the pattern. Finish the bracelet. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Charge-a-BMW-Key | How to Charge a BMW Key | To charge your BMW key, try doing so while you drive. Just make sure it's turned to position 1 or 2 while you're driving, and your key will charge. You'll need to drive it for 30 minutes to charge your key enough to perform 15 presses. You can also charge your key with a wireless phone charger. Simply leave it on top of the charging pad overnight to fully charge the key's battery. If you own an electric toothbrush charger, place your key on the charging stand to charge it. | Keep your BMW key battery charged with regular driving. Each time your key is inserted into the ignition and turned to position 1 or position 2, the battery will automatically charge. If you don't drive your car regularly, try to at least take it on 1 or 2 long drives per year to make sure the battery stays charged. Position 1 or “KL R” turns on the accessories. Position 2 is when the car is running. Drive your car for 30 minutes to refresh the battery. Driving your car for about 30 minutes will charge the key battery enough to get 15 key presses on the fob. The longer you drive, the more the battery will charge and the more key presses you will be able to make. Drive 30 hours total to fully recharge a dead key battery. The discharge time on the key battery is about 18 months. Since the key battery charges while you drive, it's not likely that your key will ever fully die until it reaches the end of its life. At this point, the battery (or the entire key, depending on the model) will just need to be replaced. A completely dead key most likely occurs with a spare key that has gone unused for at least 18 months. Invest in a wireless cell phone charger to double as a key charger. Wireless phone chargers charge cell phones by inductive charging, which uses electromagnetic fields to transfer energy between 2 objects. This will work to charge your BMW key as well. Simply set your key on top of the charging pad and keep it there for a few hours or overnight. You can find a wireless charger online or in your local department store for as little as $10.00. Charge the key on an electric toothbrush charger if you own one. The BMW key charges through induction and so does an electric toothbrush. Take the electric toothbrush off of its charging station and place the key there instead. Allow the key to rest on the charging station for a few hours or overnight. Place the key on a smart watch charging station if you have one. Simply set the key in the cradle of the smart watch charging station. Allow it to sit for about 30 minutes to recharge the battery in your key. Insert the display key into the charging pocket for wireless charging. Open the center console of equipped BMW models and locate the charging pocket along the side of the console, closest to the driver's seat. Put the display key into the center of the pocket. Make sure the lock button on the key fob is facing upwards. Ensure that the blue LED light is illuminated. Once the display key is properly inserted into the charging pocket, the blue LED light will turn on to indicate that the key is charging. If the light is not on, re-position the display key until it comes on. Plug the display key into a micro USB cable for wired charging. Insert the power connecting end of the USB cable into the USB port in your car. Plug the device-connecting end of the micro USB cable into the charging port on the display key. You can also charge the display key on a micro USB cable connected to your home computer or another charging station in your home. | Keep your BMW key battery charged with regular driving. Drive your car for 30 minutes to refresh the battery. Drive 30 hours total to fully recharge a dead key battery. Invest in a wireless cell phone charger to double as a key charger. Charge the key on an electric toothbrush charger if you own one. Place the key on a smart watch charging station if you have one. Insert the display key into the charging pocket for wireless charging. Ensure that the blue LED light is illuminated. Plug the display key into a micro USB cable for wired charging. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-Body-Parts-for-Preschool | How to Learn Body Parts for Preschool | It's important for preschoolers to learn the different body parts, and you can help teach them with fun songs, games, and activities. When you first introduce a body part, say the name out loud. Then, have the children touch or move that specific body part so they remember it better. To help them practice, play Simon Says with tasks like, “Lift your leg” or “Wiggle your fingers.” Another fun way to learn body parts is to turn on some music and ask the kids to dance with specific parts of their body. You could also have them listen to a song like “The Bone Dance” that talks about different parts of the body. | Familiarize yourself with what students are expected to learn about body parts during preschool. As a brief outline, preschool students should know the name and function of the following parts of the human body. Head (including hair, eyes, ears, nose, lips and teeth) Neck Shoulders Arms (including elbow and wrist) Hands (including fingers and thumb) Chest Stomach (preferably also know other names such as belly and tummy) Legs (including thighs) Ankles Feet (including toes) Show the student where each body part is located by pointing it out and saying its name. Ask the student to point and repeat the name. Say the name of a body part out loud and ask the student to move it. The movement creates a link between the child's mind and body because the name is processed from thought into action, which increases the chances of retaining the name in the child's memory. Ask students to match images of different body parts to their names. This will help the child learn how the name of each body part is spelled. Play the "Simon Says" game. In this game, you ask the students to perform different tasks involving parts of their body. For example, you could ask them to touch their nose or lift their leg. Explain the game to the students and make sure you say, "Simon says" when you want them to do something otherwise they will not do it (this is the main rule of the game). Sing songs that help students learn about anatomy. 1 of the most popularly used songs is James Weldon Johnson's "Dem Bones" (also known as "Dry Bones" and "Dem Dry Bones"), which describes how different parts of the body are connected to each other. Here are some more songs you may want to sing with the children. The Bone Dance" by Hannah Montana and Miley Cyrus. The Bone Bounce" by Lucy Jensen. The Parts of You and Me" by The Little Blue Globe Band (Toddler World TV) The Bone Song" by Animaniacs (this song describes the importance of each body part in relation to the rest of the body). Put some music on that the students enjoy and ask them to dance by moving specific parts of their body. Dancing is a fun way for children to learn preschool anatomy. Tickle the students on different parts of their body and ask them if it tickles. Then ask the students to name which parts of their body are ticklish - preferable places are the sides, belly, armpits, collar and knees. | Familiarize yourself with what students are expected to learn about body parts during preschool. Show the student where each body part is located by pointing it out and saying its name. Say the name of a body part out loud and ask the student to move it. Ask students to match images of different body parts to their names. Play the "Simon Says" game. Sing songs that help students learn about anatomy. Put some music on that the students enjoy and ask them to dance by moving specific parts of their body. Tickle the students on different parts of their body and ask them if it tickles. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Install-a-Distributor | How to Install a Distributor | Before you install your new distributor, you'll need to remove the old one. First, disconnect the plastic cap from the ignition, taking care to note where each wire goes so you can connect them to the new distributor in the right place. Make sure you also mark the position of the rotor before you remove the old distributor, since your new one will need to match up in order to start the engine. After you've removed the distributor, check that the rotor on the new distributor is in the same position as it was on the old one. Then, attach the distributor with bolts or screws to the engine. Connect each ignition wire in the correct place, then replace the cap. | Locate the distributor. Park the vehicle in a safe, secure place (like a garage or a level stretch of ground) and open the hood to access the engine compartment. Look for the distributor - often, this is a cylindrical part with thick wires coming out of it that sits near the engine. Most distributors are located above ordinary V6 and V8 engines and to one side of inline I4 and I6 engines. The distributor has a plastic cap with spark plug wires coming out of it. There will be one wire for each cylinder of the engine. There will also be one additional wire connected to the ignition coil. Find the timing specifications for your vehicle. Replacing the distributor requires you to use a timing light to set the timing of the engine after the new distributor is installed. To do this, you'll need to use the timing specifications unique to your vehicle. Often, these are on a sticker under the hood or in the engine compartment. You may also be able to find these in your vehicle's manual or online. If you can't find the timing specifications for your vehicle, don't attempt to install a new distributor. In this case, it's much safer and easier to simply bring your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Disconnect the distributor cap. As noted above, most distributors have a plastic cap from which the ignition wires emerge. To begin removing the distributor, remove this cap. This may or may not require basic tools - some caps have clamps that can be loosened by hand, while others may require screwdrivers or even socket wrenches to unscrew screws and/or bolts holding the cap in place. Remove all wires attached to the distributor. Before disconnecting each wire, mark it so that you'll be able to reconnect it in the same place in the new distributor. Electrical tape works well for this purpose - use the tape to give each wire a "tag" and, if you'd like, make notes on the tag with a marker. As when working with any sort of electrical system, you'll want to use a healthy amount of common sense. Never tamper with a vehicle's electrical wires while the vehicle is running or any electrical current is flowing through the engine compartment. Mark the engine mounting point. To make it a little easier to install the new distributor, it's a good idea to mark a location on the outside of the distributor housing where the distributor is mounted to the engine. Choose a spot for which you can find a corresponding location on the new distributor. This can make it simpler to line up the new distributor's housing with the engine mounting point (which you may also want to mark). Mark the position of the rotor. This step is crucial - if the position of the rotor in your new distributor doesn't match the position of the rotor in your old distributor, your engine may not start with the new distributor installed. Carefully make a mark inside the distributor housing to indicate the position of the rotor. Be precise - the rotor in your new distributor will need to match this position exactly. Remove the old distributor. Remove the bolts that hold the distributor housing to the engine. Carefully and delicately pull the distributor away from the engine. Note that it's easy to accidentally move the rotor when you remove the distributor - if this happens to you, use the position of the rotor that you originally marked as your reference point, not the position of the rotor after you remove the distributor. Recreate the marks you've made on your new distributor. If you haven't already done so, remove your new distributor from its packaging. Make the same marks that you made on your old distributor on your new distributor. In other words, mark your old distributor's rotor position inside the housing of your new distributor and mark the location on the outside of the distributor that lines up with your engine's mounting point. Ensure that the rotor is in the marked position before installing. As noted above, the position of the rotor in the new distributor must match the rotor position in the old distributor exactly or your vehicle won't be able to start. Ensure your rotor is lined up with the marking you made. As you install the distributor, take care not to accidentally move or nudge the rotor. Mount the new distributor on the engine. Re-fasten the distributor in the same spot as the old distributor, lining up the marked location on the distributor housing with the engine mounting point. Re-screw any screws or bolts as needed to hold the distributor in place. Don't tighten these fasteners all the way - you'll want to be able to move the distributor very slightly by hand. Re-connect the distributor's wires and replace the cap. Connect each wire to the distributor according to the markings you made. Ensure that you fasten each wire in its correct place - each one should be re-attached in the location that corresponds to its original location on the old rotor. Start the vehicle. Double check all of your connections and attempt to start the vehicle. If the vehicle won't start, but sounds "close", try adjusting the position of the rotor a tiny amount (no greater than the width of the mark you made) and trying again. If the engine sounds less close to starting , adjust the rotor in the other direction. If it sounds closer to starting , continue to adjust it slightly in the same direction. When you get the vehicle to start, allow it to "warm up" until it idles smoothly. Adjust the timing. Stop the engine and put a timing light on the #1 spark plug. Restart the engine. Adjust the timing by rotating the distributor housing by very small amounts. Be sure to follow the instructions specific to your vehicle which you located before replacing the distributor - as noted above, these instructions will vary from vehicle to vehicle. Don't leave this up to guesswork! When you've adjusted your timing to the proper setting, tighten the fasteners you left slightly loose previously. Take your vehicle for a test drive. You're all finished - test out your new distributor by putting your vehicles' engine through a variety of different accelerations. You may notice differences in the way your vehicle performs. If anything about your vehicle's performance seems out of order, take your vehicle to a mechanic. Don't risk lasting damage by running your vehicle for long periods of time with distributor problems. | Locate the distributor. Find the timing specifications for your vehicle. Disconnect the distributor cap. Remove all wires attached to the distributor. Mark the engine mounting point. Mark the position of the rotor. Remove the old distributor. Recreate the marks you've made on your new distributor. Ensure that the rotor is in the marked position before installing. Mount the new distributor on the engine. Re-connect the distributor's wires and replace the cap. Start the vehicle. Adjust the timing. Take your vehicle for a test drive. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Twice-Baked-Potatoes | How to Make Twice Baked Potatoes | If you want to make twice baked potatoes, start by baking the potatoes in the oven at 400 degrees F for 1 hour, then cut them in half lengthwise. Next, mix the butter, milk, and sour cream for the filling before scooping out the potatoes and adding them to the mixture. To complete the filling, stir in the bacon and cheese, and season to taste. Finish by stuffing each potato shell with the filling and baking at 350 degrees F for 15 minutes. | Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Turn your oven on to “bake” and set it to 400 degrees. As it is heating up, run through your ingredients to make sure you have everything you need. For an average serving of twice-baked potatoes, you'll need 4-5 large russet potatoes, olive or canola oil, milk, butter, sour cream, bacon, sharp cheddar cheese and diced green onions. This recipe will serve approximately 8-10 people. Use more potatoes and increase the amount of other ingredients proportionately to serve more people. Rub the potatoes with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Start by washing the potatoes and removing any dark or bruised spots. Coat the outside of the potatoes with a liberal amount of olive or canola oil. Oiling the potatoes will allow them to cook faster, and will also make the skins crispy. Arrange the potatoes on a large baking sheet. The shells of twice-baked potatoes are packed with nutrients and can be eaten along with the rest of the potato, much like potato skins. Bake the potatoes for one hour. Put the potatoes in the preheated oven on the center rack. Bake them for one hour or slightly longer until they are cooked through. Since you'll be scooping out the contents of the potatoes to make the filling, they'll need to be done and slightly soft. The outside of the potatoes should give a little to the touch when they're fully cooked. Larger potatoes will need to cook longer, whereas smaller potatoes will get done faster. For this reason, it's better to test the potatoes by feel rather than simply timing them. To make the best use of your time, begin cooking the bacon, shredding the cheese, dicing the onion or preparing other dishes as the potatoes are baking. Remove the potatoes from the oven and cut them in half lengthwise. After the potatoes have finished, take them out of the oven. Let them sit for a few minutes to cool until they're ready to be handled. When the potatoes have cooled sufficiently, use a sharp kitchen knife to cut each of them in half lengthwise and place them back on the baking sheet, skin-side down. Each potato will produce 2 twice-baked potatoes after it's been halved and stuffed. Combine the dairy ingredients. In a large mixing bowl, combine 4 tablespoons of butter, ½ cup of milk and ½ cup of sour cream. Stir these together until the butter has melted. Together, the dairy components will give the potatoes a creamy texture. You can add more butter or sour cream to taste, as long as you don't use enough to change the consistency of the filling. Avoid using too much milk, as this can oversaturate the filling with liquid and make it soupy. Scoop out the potatoes and add them to the filling mixture. Use a serving spoon to scrape the insides of the potatoes out into the mixing bowl. Try not to damage the skin, as you'll be refilling them later. Use a potato masher or electric hand mixer to combine the potatoes with the dairy ingredients. For best results, the mixture should be blended but still slightly chunky. Leave a small amount of potato in the shells to ensure that they're sturdy enough to withstand refilling and baking. Mash the ingredients more thoroughly or use an electric mixer on a higher setting to give the potatoes a smoother consistency. Just don't mix them too much, as this can cause the starches to separate and make them pasty. Mix in bacon and cheese. Take ½ to 1 full cup of shredded sharp cheddar cheese and add it to the potato mixture. Cook 4-6 strips of bacon and crumble them into the mixing bowl. Mash everything together again until the cheese has melted and the bacon pieces are evenly distributed throughout the filling. You can also use pre-cooked bacon bits if you're in a pinch, but the flavor and texture may not be as good as freshly cooked bacon. Set aside some cheese and bacon to add to the tops of the potatoes before baking them a second time, or simply grate or cook a little more. Season to taste. Add salt, cracked black pepper and/or seasoned salt or garlic powder to the filling mixture until it tastes the way you want. Be careful not to oversalt. The filling will be quite salty on its own due to the butter, bacon and cheese. Mix the ingredients together once more after seasoning. A little salt and pepper is all you'll really need to season the filling. Otherwise, you risk overpowering and losing the flavor of the potato. Stuff each potato shell with the filling. Spoon the completed filling back into the potato shells. The potatoes should be full enough for the filling to rise above the edge of the shell. Repeat until each potato has been stuffed. Pack any leftover filling onto the top of the potatoes. You'll likely have filling remaining after stuffing the potatoes. This is because adding the other ingredients changes the volume of the filling. Extra filling can be refrigerated or frozen to be used later, or simply eaten plain. Top with extra cheese and bacon. As an optional step, keep a little bacon and cheese set aside to cover the potatoes before you put them back in the oven. As the potatoes bake, the toppings will form a crisp outer crust and their flavors will cook into the filling. Once the filling is done, additional toppings are up to your discretion—pile each potato with cheese and bacon to your heart's content! Bake again for 15-20 minutes. Reduce the temperature of the oven to 350 degrees. Place the potatoes back in the oven and let them bake for another 15-20 minutes, or until they're heated through. Keep an eye on the potatoes as they bake. They likely won't need to stay in the oven long since they have already been cooked. Sprinkling a little extra cheese on the top can also be a good indicator of when the potatoes are done. Once the cheese is melted and forms a crust on the potatoes, they're ready to eat. Garnish and serve. Remove the potatoes from the oven. The outer shell and filling will be extremely hot, so let them sit for a couple minutes before serving. If you want, you can dice a fresh green onion and use it to garnish the potatoes for added zest and color. Dig in! Some people prefer to mix in the green onions with the other filling ingredients, although this can make them chewy if they bake too long and may not please picky eaters who don't like onions. | Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Rub the potatoes with oil and place them on a baking sheet. Bake the potatoes for one hour. Remove the potatoes from the oven and cut them in half lengthwise. Combine the dairy ingredients. Scoop out the potatoes and add them to the filling mixture. Mix in bacon and cheese. Season to taste. Stuff each potato shell with the filling. Top with extra cheese and bacon. Bake again for 15-20 minutes. Garnish and serve. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Separation-Agreement | How to Write a Separation Agreement | If you're legally separating from your spouse, you'll need to write a separation agreement that you both agree on. Fortunately, many state courts have fill-in-the-blank forms to make the process easier. Your agreement will need to determine who stays in your family home and how your property, capital, assets, and debts are divided. If you have children, you'll also need to agree on parenting time and child support. If you and your spouse have difficulty communicating, try using a court mediator to help you stay objective. You don't need an attorney, but it's best to have one look over your agreement before you sign it to identify any gaps or contradictions. Once you've come to an agreement, you'll need to get it signed in front of a notary, then file it with your local court. | Approach negotiations from an objective, neutral standpoint. It can be easy to let emotions get the best of you in this situation, especially if the separation wasn't your idea. Try to look at things objectively, as though you were merely dissolving a business partnership rather than a romantic relationship. If there is anything that you aren't willing to compromise on, state that upfront. Your partner may have some things like that as well. If you get those out of the way first, you'll find everything else is that much easier. If you're still too upset or emotional to be objective, you might want to consider using a mediator. Your local court will have a list of approved mediators in your area. You can likely also find a list on the webpage for your state or local bar association. Determine your priorities and your partner's priorities. Before you sit down and talk to your partner about the separation, both of you should have a clear idea of what you want out of the separation and what things are most important to you. Make a list of the basic categories your separation agreement will cover. Then each of you can set your priorities within those categories. Some of the basic categories you should evaluate are: Who stays in the family home Division of property, including furniture, cars, personal property, and pets Finances, including debts, banking, and investment accounts Joint bills and obligations Parenting time and child support , if you have children Talk about how to separate your physical property. Much of your physical property will likely be fairly easy to divide, such as clothes, books, and other items. For things that aren't as easy, think about which of you will get more benefit out of it or which of you can replace it more easily. When negotiating, it's typically best to start with the easiest things and get them out of the way so you can focus on particular items that might be sticking points. Don't be afraid to bargain with these items. For example, you might agree that your partner can have the newer car if you can have the living room furniture that you picked out. If you and your partner own a home, talk about who will live in the home and who will find accommodations elsewhere. If you have children, it usually makes sense for the parent that will have the bulk of the parenting time to also keep the house. However, if one of you dislikes the house or can't afford to make the mortgage payments on it, that's also something to take into consideration. In most states, pets are considered property. However, you can also negotiate shared custody of your pets if you want and these arrangements will typically be upheld by a court as long as both of you are in agreement. Divide your marital debts and other bills. In many states, debts such as mortgages, credit cards, and car loans are the responsibility of both partners, even if they're only in one partner's name. Write up a list of debts and other bills and decide which of you will be responsible for each of them. For example, if you have 2 cars, both of which you're still making payments on, you may decide that each of you gets 1 car and is responsible for the car payments for that car. If you have credit cards, decide who is responsible for each card. If your partner is responsible for a particular credit card and you have a copy of that card, destroy it or give it to your partner. Likewise, if you have access to the online account, have your partner change the password. Other joint bills typically follow the person who has the property associated with that bill. For example, if you are going to live in the house, you typically would be responsible for the mortgage, homeowner's insurance, property taxes, utilities, and other costs associated with the home. If any of these bills is in the other person's name, change the name of the responsible party on the account. Evaluate your separate income to determine spousal maintenance. If one of you makes significantly more money than the other, you'll likely want to address spousal maintenance. In most states, this is temporary support to allow the lower-income spouse to get situated on their own. Most states have spousal maintenance or spousal support worksheets or calculators that can help you determine whether such payments would be required in your situation. For example, if your partner stayed at home to care for your 2 young children while you worked, you may be obligated to pay your partner some support for a few years until they can find a job and start paying bills themselves. Instead of actually exchanging money, you can also adjust for income disparity with the way you divide your debts and obligations. For example, if you have 2 cars, both of which you're still making payments on, the partner who makes more money might agree to pay both car payments and maintain insurance, even though each of you gets 1 car. Work out parenting time and child support arrangements. If you have children, most states require any separation agreement to include parenting time and child support provisions. While you're typically free to make any agreement you want, you can't eliminate one parent's responsibility entirely. This means a court usually won't approve an agreement in which neither parent pays any child support at all. Your state has parenting time worksheets and child support calculators available on the internet, usually on the state court's website. Simply search for "child support calculator" with the name of your state, then "parenting time worksheet" with the name of your state. Make sure any forms you use are approved by your state's court system or child services agency. If you're planning to get your separation agreement approved by a judge, the judge will likely look at your parenting time and child support agreement separately and may change it. The judge evaluates this agreement based on the best interests of the child, not the best interests of the parents. Discuss if either of you wants to change your name. If either of you changed your name after the marriage, you might want to change it back to the name you had before the marriage. If so, you can include a clause to this effect in your separation agreement. This clause only takes effect if you're planning on getting the separation agreement approved by a judge. Otherwise, your agreement is just a contract between you and your partner, not a court order. If you view the separation as a temporary thing while you work out issues, and both of you ultimately hope to get back together, you may find this discussion premature. Still, it doesn't hurt to talk about it. Decide what happens to the separation agreement in the event of a divorce. If the two of you are creating a separation agreement because you want to live apart for a while and try to work out your problems, divorce is probably the last thing you want to talk about. However, it's a good idea to at least figure out if the things you've agreed on are only temporary or if you would want to make them permanent. There are 4 basic things that can happen to the separation agreement if one of you files for divorce: The separation agreement can become part of the divorce agreement, which would mean you would have fewer (if any) issues to deal with if one of you filed for divorce. You can create a clause to the effect that the separation agreement goes away if either of you files for divorce, leaving you free to negotiate everything again. You can stipulate that parts of the separation agreement will go away while others will stay and become part of the divorce agreement. The separation agreement can live on as its own thing, regardless of any divorce agreement. In effect, this means that at least portions of the separation agreement will either become part of the divorce agreement or be superseded by it. Find out if your state recognizes legal separation. A few states still recognize legal separation. In those states, a separation agreement may not be enough. You may also need to file a petition and attend a court hearing to ask the judge to approve your separation agreement. The website of your state's court system typically states out front whether the state recognizes legal separation or not. Search for "legal separation" with the name of your state. In states that recognize legal separation, you can still have a separation agreement between you and your partner and not go through the court process. However, you may have a difficult time getting the agreement enforced if there are problems, and you likely won't be able to merge it with the divorce agreement if either of you files for divorce. Look for state-specific separation agreement forms. Your state's court system likely has fill-in-the-blank forms you can use to create a basic separation agreement. Search for "separation agreement" with the name of your state. If you can't find forms on the website for your state's court system, you may be able to find them through your state's legal aid society. If your state recognizes legal separation and you plan to file for that, you'll also need a form for the petition to file along with your agreement. You may be able to find other general forms from online legal services for free, but these forms typically are not approved by your state's court system, so you can't guarantee that a court would enforce them. Some state courts do not have pre-approved forms. However, if you go to the clerk's office of the nearest civil court or family court, you may be able to get a copy of a separation agreement filed by someone else that you can use as a guide for the basic form of the agreement. There are online commercial legal services, such as LegalZoom and RocketLawyer, that may also have state-specific separation agreements. Typically, you'll have to pay to get a custom agreement made. However, these agreements typically are reviewed by a staff lawyer and are less expensive than hiring a lawyer to draft an agreement for you. Identify each of the partners and the details of your marriage. The first part of a separation agreement lists the full legal names of you and your partner and the date and location of your marriage. Then, you'll need to provide a date when you became legally separated. The date of separation doesn't necessarily have to be the exact date one of you moved out. It could be the date you finished negotiating the separation agreement or even a later date. However, it can't be a date before the two of you started living apart. Outline the division of real estate and personal property. In the next part of your separation agreement, list any real estate and titled property (usually cars, trucks, boats, and other vehicles) that the two of you own and who will get that property. For general household property, you can make descriptions for big things, but usually, you'll just have a general statement to the effect that the two of you have divided up your personal property to your joint satisfaction. If you have certain items that are particularly valuable, you might want to include them. For example, if you had antique furniture that was handed down to you from your grandmother, you might want to include specifically that you would get the antique furniture. You may also want to make provisions for insurance here, in terms of who is maintaining the insurance on motor vehicles or real estate and has responsibility for paying these bills. List all banking and investment accounts. Even if you and your partner have separate banking and investment accounts, those may still be considered "marital property." For this reason, include every account in your separation agreement with a clear statement of which partner has the right to the proceeds from that account. Some states have particular legal provisions regarding retirement accounts that require them to be divided between married partners. This may not be something you can handle through a separation agreement. If either you or your partner has a retirement account, you may want to talk to a lawyer about how to handle them. Provide a list of al marital debts. Marital debts include all debts incurred in the marriage, even if only one of you is listed on the account. For each account, identify which of you will be responsible for paying that debt. If you've agreed to pay off or close accounts, include that in your agreement as well. For secured debts, such as a mortgage or a car loan, identify which partner retains possession of the actual property. Include your agreement regarding spousal support. If either of you is paying spousal support, list how much is being paid, how often, and for how long. If your state has a spousal support worksheet or calculator, you might attach that to your separation agreement to show how you came to the conclusion you did. In most states, you aren't required to provide spousal support at all. However, if a judge needs to approve your separation agreement, they are going to consider whether it is fair and equitable. If one partner makes a lot more money than the other, the judge may order spousal support. Describe your parenting time and child support arrangements. If you have children, an outline of your parenting time and child support is perhaps the most important part of your separation agreement. If your agreement needs to be approved by a judge, this is the part the judge will scrutinize the most closely. Include the names and ages of the children, where they go to school, and who will have primary custody of them. You can attach school schedules as well as a holiday schedule showing your agreement as to who the kids will spend their holidays with. Don't forget to put birthdays on the holiday schedule, as well as days such as Father's Day and Mother's Day. Provide a copy of the agreement to your partner. Once you've finished your draft of the agreement, give your partner the opportunity to read through it. They might also want to have an attorney look over it as well. It can help to give them a deadline so they don't procrastinate. For example, if you email them a copy of it, tell them you want to sign the final agreement in 2 weeks. You can also give them dates and times you're available if they want to meet and discuss it with you. Discuss any issues not addressed by the agreement. Go back and look at the list of priorities you made and make sure everything that was important to you is covered in the agreement. Your partner should do the same. If anything seems unfair or if you've left anything out, you'll need to go back over the agreement and figure out what needs to be changed. Even if you drafted the agreement yourself, it's possible that you overlooked something. Take a step back and evaluate each clause. Think about the future and make sure the agreement is something you can afford and are comfortable with. If there's anything you don't feel right about after a second read-through, discuss it with your partner. Expect your partner to potentially have second thoughts about what's in the agreement. They may also want the agreement to cover something that neither of you thought about before. For example, suppose you and your partner have season tickets to the local baseball team. You might want to discuss whether to share these tickets if you continue to get them or simply cancel them. Make changes to the agreement as necessary. After you and your partner have had the chance to look over the agreement again, add anything else you've thought about or adjust the existing clauses as necessary. Have your partner look over the revised agreement. Keep in mind you may end up having to do this several times. Don't expect to cover everything in the first draft of the agreement. Even attorneys can leave things out on the first draft that need to be added later. Sign the agreement in front of a notary. Once you and your partner decide the agreement is finished, print 2 copies so that each of you has one. Make an appointment with your partner to appear in front of a notary so you can both sign the agreement at the same time. Sign each of the 2 copies so that each of you has an original. Each of you will need to bring a valid government-issued photo ID with you. The notary will validate your IDs and confirm that each of you is signing the agreement voluntarily. However, the notary won't read the agreement or evaluate its legality. File your agreement with the local court. In some states, you have to file your agreement with the family court in your county if you want it to be enforceable. Contact the clerk of court to find out specifically how you need to do this. Typically, you'll bring the original documents to the clerk and have them stamped. Some courts may require a cover sheet or other form to accompany your agreement. The clerk will have blank copies of any of these forms. You will likely pay a fee to file your agreement with the court. This fee varies among courts but typically isn't more than $200. You and your partner can split the fees if you want, but the entire fee must be paid at the same time. | Approach negotiations from an objective, neutral standpoint. Determine your priorities and your partner's priorities. Talk about how to separate your physical property. Divide your marital debts and other bills. Evaluate your separate income to determine spousal maintenance. Work out parenting time and child support arrangements. Discuss if either of you wants to change your name. Decide what happens to the separation agreement in the event of a divorce. Find out if your state recognizes legal separation. Look for state-specific separation agreement forms. Identify each of the partners and the details of your marriage. Outline the division of real estate and personal property. List all banking and investment accounts. Provide a list of al marital debts. Include your agreement regarding spousal support. Describe your parenting time and child support arrangements. Provide a copy of the agreement to your partner. Discuss any issues not addressed by the agreement. Make changes to the agreement as necessary. Sign the agreement in front of a notary. File your agreement with the local court. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Prednisone | How to Take Prednisone | If your doctor has told you to take prednisone, make sure to follow the prescription instructions closely, as they may start you on a higher dose before dropping you down to a maintenance level dose. To take prednisone in pill form, avoid crushing, chewing, or cutting the tablets since that might affect how it is absorbed in your stomach. Also, take your tablet immediately before or after eating to reduce any stomach irritation. If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember instead of doubling up next time you eat. While prednisone has common side effects like bruising, acne, and increased facial hair, get immediate medical attention if you have rarer side effects like stomach pain, bloody or black stool, extreme depression, and vision problems. | Give your doctor a detailed medical history. When your doctor examines you to make a diagnosis, they'll ask you questions about your medical history. Because prednisone may weaken your immune system, it's important to let the doctor know if you've recently had or been diagnosed with: Ulcers Diarrhea Liver, kidney, or heart disease High blood pressure Diabetes Depression Follow the doctor's dosing instructions. Once your doctor has diagnosed your condition and prescribed prednisone, talk with the doctor about how to take the medication. The doctor may start you on a higher dose of prednisone before dropping you down to a maintenance level dose. This might mean that you'll need to take prednisone several times throughout the day. When prednisone is prescribed for short-term use to treat a temporary condition, it's usually taken for 5 days, with a different dosage each day. If you're taking prednisone long-term to treat a chronic condition, your doctor will likely start you at a higher dose to get your condition under control. Then, they'll wean you down to a lower dose for maintenance. Your doctor might need to change the dose if you experience stress from infection, fever, or an extreme illness. In some cases, they may lower the dosage, such as when you're recovering from an infection. However, they may increase your dosage if the condition they're treating with prednisone worsens. Swallow prednisone pills if your doctor prescribed the tablets. Prednisone tablets are often enteric-coated so the medication is slowly released in your stomach. Though this isn't always the case, it's best to avoid crushing, chewing, or cutting the tablets before you swallow them. Depending on your dosage, you may need to take just 1 or up to several tablets throughout the day. Measure prednisone solution if your doctor prescribed the syrup. Use the measuring cup or spoon that came with the medication and pour the prescribed amount. Take the prednisone once or several times throughout the day depending on your prescription. If the medication doesn't come with a measuring cup or spoon, ask the pharmacist for one. Take prednisone immediately before or after eating. Although prednisone tablets are usually coated to make them easier to swallow, you shouldn't take them on an empty stomach. The food will line your stomach which can reduce irritation so eat right before or after you plan on taking the prednisone. Learn about common side effects. The longer you take prednisone and the larger the dose, the more likely you are to experience side effects. You might notice thinning skin that bruises easily, redistribution of body fat, acne, and increased facial hair. Most side effects of prednisone are caused by long-term use, particularly changes in weight or skin thinning. If you're using it as a short-term treatment, you likely won't have any major side effects if you aren't allergic to the drug. Some people report impotence and menstrual problems after being on prednisone for a while. Monitor your blood sugar if you've ever been diagnosed with diabetes. If you've been diagnosed with latent diabetes and aren't on insulin or you're managing your insulin levels, be aware that prednisone can interfere with your diabetes medications to make them less effective. You may need to begin insulin or increase your medication dosages to manage your diabetes. Look for skin or breathing changes if you have an allergic reaction. Although it's unlikely that you develop an allergic reaction to prednisone, recognize the signs of a reaction. If you're going to have an allergic reaction, it'll happen when you start taking it, such as within your first few doses. If you think you're having an allergic reaction, contact your doctor and tell them you're experiencing 1 or more of these symptoms: Rash Itching or swelling (especially around your face or throat) Severe dizziness Difficulty breathing Get immediate medical attention if you have severe side effects. Although it's rare, prednisone can cause extreme stomach pain, bloody or black stools, extreme depression, behavioral changes, and vision problems. If you experience any of these severe side effects, get emergency medical attention. Talk with your doctor if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Studies suggest that taking prednisone during pregnancy can increase the risk of birth defects, though the risk is highest in the first trimester, and cause low birth weight. Let your doctor know if you become pregnant while taking prednisone. You should also avoid taking prednisone if you're breastfeeding because the medication is transferred to breast milk. If your doctor believes that prednisone is essential to your treatment, they may put you on the lowest dose. If you're breastfeeding, the doctor might have you wait 4 hours after taking the medication before you feed your baby. However, this may not be necessary, so talk to your doctor. Talk to your doctor if you get a fungal infection. If you have a fungal infection, it's important to tell your doctor. They may not prescribe prednisone because it may weaken your immune system and make it harder to fight the infection. Your doctor will determine if you need to avoid taking prednisone until the infection clears. This may not be an issue if you're taking a low dosage of prednisone. However, it's best to talk to your doctor. If you develop a fungal infection after you've started taking prednisone, tell your doctor immediately. They may advise you to temporarily stop taking prednisone. Take a missed dose as soon as you remember. If you've forgotten to take 1 of your daily prednisone doses, don't double up on the medication when you remember. Instead, take the regular amount as soon as you remember. If you remember just before it's almost time to take another scheduled dose, just take the upcoming dose without doubling up. Don't stop taking prednisone completely. When you're ready to stop the medication, the doctor will gradually reduce your dosage. Contact poison control or emergency services if you overdose. If you've taken more than the recommended dosage, call the poison help line (1-800-222-1222) or emergency services. This is especially important if you experience: Trembling and convulsions Elevated blood pressure Fever Heart attack or stroke Avoid drinking alcohol while you're taking prednisone. Because alcohol and prednisone affect people differently, doctors recommend not drinking while taking the medication. Alcohol and prednisone may increase your risk for gastrointestinal bleeding and ulcers. | Give your doctor a detailed medical history. Follow the doctor's dosing instructions. Swallow prednisone pills if your doctor prescribed the tablets. Measure prednisone solution if your doctor prescribed the syrup. Take prednisone immediately before or after eating. Learn about common side effects. Monitor your blood sugar if you've ever been diagnosed with diabetes. Look for skin or breathing changes if you have an allergic reaction. Get immediate medical attention if you have severe side effects. Talk with your doctor if you're pregnant or breastfeeding. Talk to your doctor if you get a fungal infection. Take a missed dose as soon as you remember. Contact poison control or emergency services if you overdose. Avoid drinking alcohol while you're taking prednisone. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Admit-You-Like-Someone | How to Admit You Like Someone | To tell someone you like them, first make sure to choose a time when the two of you are alone together and not too busy. Then, instead of telling them your feelings right away, start with a few icebreakers, like a funny story or a movie you'd like to see. When you feel comfortable, remember to stay calm, be confident, and keep it simple. For example, try something like “I've been thinking about you a lot, and I want you to know that I like you.” | Be confident. When you tell someone how you feel, it is important to show confidence. If you are timid and unsure, how will that make your crush feel? He or she will not want to be with someone who seems unsure. Smiling is one of the easiest ways to broadcast confidence. A relaxed, natural smile shows others that you are sure of yourself and will impress them. Stay calm. Don't panic when you admit your feelings. This can be a very stressful situation and it is easy to lose your cool, but you must remain calm during the whole conversation. If you panic and seem nervous, it will not help your case at all. If you start to feel like you are panicking, try focusing on your breathing. Take deep breaths and calm down. Or pretend like you are talking to an old friend, not someone you like. This will make it easier to talk to them. Keep it simple. Let them know how you feel about them, but do not go over the top and act like they are the most important thing in the world. Let them know what is going on and why is it that you feel that way about them. Avoid discussing any huge relationship commitments, as it may make your partner feel uncomfortable or uneasy. Ease into it. Do not just jump into that subject right away. Start off talking about something that happened that day, and work your way up to talking about your feelings. This will give your crush some time so that they won't be surprised or caught off guard when you tell them how you feel. Try talking about something cute or funny to make you more comfortable with the conversation initially. Tell your crush about a funny thing your brother did or talk about a new movie you really want to see. Say the words. Tell your crush that you like them. Just say it. It might be intimidating, but they'll never know if you don't tell them. Be brave and tell them how you feel. Try something like, “I've been thinking about you a lot and I want you to know that I like you.” Don’t pressure them. Make sure you tell the person you like that you don't expect anything in return – you just wanted to tell them how you feel. That way they can have some time to think about what you said without feeling pressured to respond right away. When you're done expressing yourself don't ask, "So, how do you feel about me?" It is up to them when and if they are willing to let you know. If they say no, then accept their answer and move forward. Say how you really feel, but don't throw a tantrum. If they say they like you too, that's great. But don't make them feel like they owe you a response right away. If they say yes, then you could ask them out. But if you're younger, you should just be friends. Choose an appropriate time. There are many things that can go wrong when you expose your feelings to another person. So, take some time considering how and when you'll do it beforehand to minimize these negative possibilities. Choose a time when the person is alone. This is a private matter between the two of you and you should be alone when it happens. You don't want the object of your affection to have to think about how to react in front of other people in addition to handling the news you just told them. Consider your crush's schedule too. Don't tell them how you feel at a time when they are busy and stressed. This might overwhelm them even more and make them respond in a more negative way than they otherwise would. Pick an appropriate location. Try to choose an intimate setting, a place where both of you are comfortable. You want your crush to feel at ease when you admit that you like them. Choosing a place that you both enjoy and feel comfortable in can make all the difference in how someone will receive news like this. Try telling them in the peaceful park near your house or when you are both alone in your car. Do it in person. If possible, don't tell them in a text or over the phone. Maintain eye contact while you are talking to him/her and tell them how you feel. Doing it in person is more meaningful, but it will also let you gauge their reaction because you'll be there to see it. However, if either of you are the nervous type that might stutter or get sweaty, sending a text or writing a note might be a better option. That way you can think about what you want to say before you actually say it. But keep in mind that texting should be used as a last resort to tell someone how you feel. If you must send a text, try something like, “Hey, I like you. Want to hang out some time?” Don't ask someone else to tell him or her for you unless you feel it is absolutely necessary because you are too embarrassed or for some other reason. Make sure if you do ask someone else to tell your crush how you feel that it is someone you trust so they won't spread rumors about you. Don’t expect too much. Nothing is guaranteed. It is very possible that the object of your affection won't return your feelings. But you shouldn't tell them only to get a positive response. It is nice to know people like you and your crush should appreciate your honesty, regardless of the outcome. If they have nothing to say in response to how you feel, move on and don't be discouraged because of their response. React well if they say they don’t return your feelings. If they do let you know how they feel about you, but it is not the same way you feel about them, don't stress it and don't make the mistake to take it back. Eventually they may feel the same way and if they don't, again just move on. The important thing here is to react with grace. If you get upset or say something mean in response, then it negates all of the nice things you just did and said. And it will definitely eliminate any chance of your crush deciding that they do really like you in the future. Don't indulge in a pity party or get visibly upset in front of your crush. Give it time. Sometimes people need time to think about their feelings and make a decision like this. Strong emotions often take time to develop. So it's possible that they will think about what you said and change their mind in the future. Continue being their friend and try to act as if nothing has changed. This will give them a chance to see you in a new light. | Be confident. Stay calm. Keep it simple. Ease into it. Say the words. Don’t pressure them. Choose an appropriate time. Pick an appropriate location. Do it in person. Don’t expect too much. React well if they say they don’t return your feelings. Give it time. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Dye-Your-Hair-With-Manic-Panic-Hair-Dye | How to Dye Your Hair With Manic Panic Hair Dye | To dye your hair with Manic Panic hair dye, first, use clips to split up your hair into several sections. Then, cover the top of your forehead and neck with petroleum jelly or conditioner, so you don't get dye on your skin. When you're ready, apply a generous amount of hair dye to each section of hair using a brush. Comb through each section of hair before moving on to the next section so the dye fully covers each strand. Once your whole head is covered, wait at least 30-60 minutes before rinsing out the dye. | Choose Classic dye for color that lasts 4-6 weeks. This is Manic Panic's regular semi permanent dye. If you're testing out a new color, this is a great option as it only lasts up to 6 weeks. If you're thinking about bleaching your hair so the color shows up better, purchase their bleach kit as well. Choose a Classic dye from your local beauty store or online. Select Amplified dye if you want your color to last up to 8 weeks. The Amplified hair dyes have 30% more pigment than the regular Classic dyes, making the color last longer. Choose an Amplified color from Manic Panic's website that you think would look great on your hair. Prepare to bleach your hair before using the Amplified dye if you want your color to show up super well. Protect your work surfaces to prevent stains. Place newspaper or plastic bags over the surface where you'll be working. Put down multiple layers for extra protection, and stay away from any carpeting or furniture that you don't want stained. The bathroom or kitchen is a good place to dye your hair. Plastic trash bags work well to protect any surfaces. Bleach your hair to get the best results. If you have darker hair or want a super vibrant color, it's best to bleach your hair using the Manic Panic Flash Lightning bleach kit. Read the instructions that come with the kit, mixing the bleach powder with the developer thoroughly before applying the bleach to your hair evenly. The kit comes with plastic gloves, bleach powder, developer, a plastic container for mixing, a tint brush, and a plastic cap. How long to leave the bleach in will depend on the natural color of your hair, so check it every ten minutes to see how light your hair has gotten. Wash your hair several times using shampoo if you bleach it to make sure all of the bleach is out of your hair. Bleaching your hair beforehand is especially important if you're dyeing it a pastel shade. Wash and dry your hair thoroughly before dyeing it. Use a regular or clarifying shampoo to wash your hair, making sure it's super clean and rinsed out. Let your hair air dry or use a blow dryer to dry your hair thoroughly before starting the dye process. Don't use conditioner on your hair beforehand, as this will prevent the dye from adhering to your hair correctly. Spread petroleum jelly along your hairline to avoid staining your skin. Apply it to your hairline using your fingers, spreading it around your ears and neck to prevent the dye from leaving color on your skin. Keep the petroleum jelly off of your hair or else the dye won't absorb properly. Once you're completely done with the dye process, the petroleum jelly will wash right off. Do a strand test to see how the color will affect your hair. Testing one small section of your hair with the dye will help you get an accurate idea of how your hair will look. Pick out a small section of your hair that's hidden from view and apply the dye to it. Let it sit for 30 minutes, and then rinse it out with cold water. Dry your hair thoroughly to see what color the dye makes your hair. The test section only needs to be about 0.5–1 in (1.3–2.5 cm) in width. While it's not required that you do a test strip, it's a good way to know for sure how the dye will affect your hair before applying it to your whole head. Do a patch test using the hair dye by spreading a dot of it on your skin to make sure you're not allergic to it. Put on plastic gloves and old clothing before starting. Wear plastic gloves to help keep the dye off of your hands. Pick out clothes you don't mind getting stained, like an old t-shirt or sweatpants. Sometimes a hair dye kit will come with plastic gloves, so check the box before purchasing an extra pair. Brush the dye onto your hair starting 0.5–1 in (1.3–2.5 cm) from the roots. Use a tint brush to apply the dye to your hair, one section at a time. Start a small distance from the roots, brushing the dye onto each strand of hair and working your way down to the ends. If desired, you can use your fingers (with gloves on!) to rub the dye into each strand more thoroughly. Consider separating your hair into sections to make it more manageable to dye, if desired. Short hair will likely use about half of a jar of dye, while longer hair will need a full jar. Apply the dye to your roots last, then comb it through your hair. Brush the dye onto your roots last because your roots will develop the color the fastest. Use a comb to brush through your hair, distributing the dye evenly. When your hair is saturated with color, it will become frothy. If you're not noticing the dye become frothy, apply additional coats onto your hair. Put on a plastic cap and wait at least 30 minutes. Create a pile of your dyed hair on top of your head, and put on a plastic cap. Let the dye soak into your hair for at least 30 minutes, though you can leave it on longer if desired. If your hair doesn't absorb dye well, leave the dye in for at least an hour. Set a timer so you know how long you've had the dye in your hair. Some people rinse the dye out after 30 minutes, while others leave the dye in for hours. Check your hair color after 30 minutes to see if you'd like to keep it in longer. Heat your hair with a blow dryer to make the dye set faster. If you want to speed up the coloring process, keep the plastic cap on your head and use a blow dryer. Move the blow dryer over your hair, keeping it out of contact with the plastic cap. Only use the blow dryer for part of the processing time, not the entire 30 minutes to an hour. Rinse your hair using cool water. Once you're satisfied with the color, rinse your hair in a sink or shower using cold water to remove the dye. Try to rinse your hair out away from your face so you don't get dye on your skin. Use a stainless-steel sink if possible to avoid stains from certain dye colors. Rinse your hair until the water is clear or only a slight tint of your color comes out. Consider rinsing your hair with water and vinegar to help the dye last longer. Dry and style your hair as usual once it’s rinsed. After all the dye is rinsed out, you're ready to blow dry your hair or let it dry naturally. Style your hair the way you like, and enjoy your new color! To keep your new hair color looking vibrant, avoid clarifying shampoos or washing your hair too much, as well as chlorine, saltwater, or lots of exposure to sunlight. | Choose Classic dye for color that lasts 4-6 weeks. Select Amplified dye if you want your color to last up to 8 weeks. Protect your work surfaces to prevent stains. Bleach your hair to get the best results. Wash and dry your hair thoroughly before dyeing it. Spread petroleum jelly along your hairline to avoid staining your skin. Do a strand test to see how the color will affect your hair. Put on plastic gloves and old clothing before starting. Brush the dye onto your hair starting 0.5–1 in (1.3–2.5 cm) from the roots. Apply the dye to your roots last, then comb it through your hair. Put on a plastic cap and wait at least 30 minutes. Heat your hair with a blow dryer to make the dye set faster. Rinse your hair using cool water. Dry and style your hair as usual once it’s rinsed. |
https://www.wikihow.fitness/Stretch-Your-Glutes | How to Stretch Your Glutes | To stretch your glutes sitting down, do a twisting buttock stretch by putting your legs out in front of you, bending your left leg, and keeping your right leg straight. Then, turn your body to the left, place your right arm over your bent leg, and anchor yourself by touching your right elbow to your left knee. Keep your left arm behind you for balance, hold the stretch for 30 seconds, and switch sides. | Shift your hips from right to left for an easy dynamic stretch. Grab a mat or find a carpeted spot in your home. Get on your hands and knees, stacking your hips above your knees and your shoulders over your wrists. Next, shift your hips to the right and hold for 1-2 seconds. Then, shift your hips to the left, holding here for 1-2 seconds as well. This completes a “rep” of this exercise. Do 6-8 reps total for the best results. Stand with one hand on a wall to do leg swings. You should just be using the wall to support yourself, so keep your touch light. Lift your opposite leg and swing it in front of you and then behind you. Allow your leg to go as high as it can without causing pain or discomfort. Swing it 10-12 times, then switch sides. So, for example, if you're supporting yourself with your left hand, you'll swing your right leg. Switch sides by turning around so you can support yourself by placing your other hand on the wall. If you want to mix things up, try a standing hip abduction. Stand on one leg with the other leg lifted slightly off the ground next to it. Do this without holding the wall. Lift the leg that's not touching up to the side with a straight knee at a 10-20 degree angle. Slowly lower the leg back down, keeping your core tight. Repeat 10-12 times then switch legs. Cross one leg over the other while standing for a standing glute stretch. Transfer your weight to your left leg. Then, lift your right leg and place your right ankle on your left thigh just above your knee. Lower yourself into a seated position by bending your left leg. To increase the stretch, gently press down on your right knee. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then switch sides. This stretch may be a bit tough the first few times you try it. Start with 10 seconds if you need to and slowly increase the amount of time you hold the stretch. You can even hold it for longer than 30 seconds if you want to! If you need to, keep your balance by placing your opposite hand on a wall. So, if you're crossing your right leg over your left, balance yourself with your left hand. You can also try leaning your back up against a wall and sliding down the wall to ease into the stretch. Do a series of bridges to warm up your glutes. Choose a carpeted spot or get a mat to keep from hurting your back. Lie down with your back flat against the floor and your legs bent at a 90 degree angle. Raise your body until your buttocks are 1-3 in (2.54-7.62 cm) off the ground. Hold this position for 2 seconds, then lower your body. Repeat the exercise 10-12 times. Keep your feet flat on the floor! Your heels shouldn't raise up at all during the bridges. Start in tabletop position to rock from your hips to your heels. Get on your hands and knees on a soft surface. Stack your knees above your ankles and your shoulders over your wrists. Next, cross your left ankle over your right calf. Move your body back so your hips are pushing toward your right heel. After 2 seconds, rock forward so your shoulders are again over your wrists. Rock back and forth 6-8 times, then switch sides. When you rock backwards, your arms should be stretched out in front of you. Perform front lunges for a tougher exercise. Stand tall with your feet together. Next, take a large step forward and bend your back leg to lower into a lunge. Your front thigh and calf should now form a 90 degree angle. Use your glute muscles to push back into a standing position. Repeat this motion 10-12 times on each leg. Make sure your posture is steady and upright. Roll your shoulders back and together and check to make sure that your lower back isn't compressed. Keep your eyes straight in front of you focused on a single object to maintain your balance. You can also put your hands on your hips to steady yourself. Sit on a mat to do the twisting buttock stretch. Put your legs out in front of you. Bend your left leg and keep your right leg straight. Next, turn your body to left, placing your right arm over your bent leg. Anchor yourself here by touching your right elbow to your left knee. Keep your left arm behind you for balance. Hold the stretch for 30 seconds, then switch sides. Lean forward with a straight back while in a cross-legged position. Sit on the floor with crossed legs. Reach forward with both arms until you feel a stretch in your glutes. Hold this position for 30 seconds, and then release it. You'll also feel this stretch in your hips. Get a sturdy chair to try the figure 4 glute stretch. Sit down in the chair and look ahead of you. Check your posture to make sure you're sitting up straight. Lift your right leg and cross it over your left thigh. Lean forward (keeping your back straight) until you feel the stretch. Hold the position for 30 seconds, then repeat 2-3 times. Switch sides once you're finished. If you're very flexible, extended your legs straight out in front of you while sitting on the edge of the chair seat. Place one heel on top of the toes of the other foot. Make sure your bottom leg extends straight forward from the hip. You will feel the stretch on the back side of the hip of the top leg. Start in a tabletop position to do the pigeon pose. Begin on your hands and knees. Move your left leg out in front of you, bending your knee so your heel is pointed back toward your body. Then, stretch your right leg out behind you. Sink down so the outer edge of your left thigh angles toward the floor. Hold for 20-30 seconds. Finally, bring your right leg forward so you can switch sides. If you prefer, begin in downward dog. Lie down on your back to do the pretzel stretch. Bend both knees and cross your left leg over your right thigh. Thread your hands in between your legs and grasp your right leg. Gently pull it back toward your chest. Keep hold of your right leg for 30 seconds, release it, and repeat the movement another 1-2 times. Then do the other leg. Lie flat on your back for the happy baby pose. Bring your legs up in the air and bend your knees toward your chest. Reach your hands up and grab your ankles. Pull your feet farther down to your chest, moving them until you feel a stretch in your glutes. Maintain this pose for 20-30 seconds. Your arms should be on the inside of the half-loop created by your lifted legs. Cross one leg over the other while lying down. Extend both your legs and arms once you're lying down. Your arms should be straight out to either side, and your legs should form a “V.” Lift your right hip and shift your right leg over your body. It should now be pointing out to the left. Remain in this position for 20-30 seconds, then change over to the other side. Include a dynamic glute stretch in your pre-workout warm up. Dynamic stretches are the best way to get your body ready for any kind of workout. Unlike static stretches (which can actually strain cold muscles), dynamic stretches provide a gentle warm up that will help you avoid injury. Doing a dynamic glute stretch is especially important if you're about to go for a long run or do squats and lunges. Finish your workouts with static glute stretches. Even if your workout didn't specifically target your glutes, it likely engaged them at least a little bit. Perform at least 1-2 static seated or lying down stretches to make sure your glutes don't tighten up overnight. Stretch your glutes every day if you sit a lot at work. Over time, hours and hours of sitting can cause your glute muscles to become sore or even atrophy. The best way to avoid these problems is to perform daily glute exercises and stretches. Do at least 1-2 dynamic and static stretches each day. You can also avoid muscle injury or atrophy by eating right and getting in a moderate-intensity exercise session at least 3 times per week. Incorporate standing glute stretches into your workday. Do a few leg swings while you're waiting for the train or even the elevator. Perform a lunge or two during your lunch break if you have a private office. Adding these exercises to your daily routine can help you stay healthy and fit. | Shift your hips from right to left for an easy dynamic stretch. Stand with one hand on a wall to do leg swings. Cross one leg over the other while standing for a standing glute stretch. Do a series of bridges to warm up your glutes. Start in tabletop position to rock from your hips to your heels. Perform front lunges for a tougher exercise. Sit on a mat to do the twisting buttock stretch. Lean forward with a straight back while in a cross-legged position. Get a sturdy chair to try the figure 4 glute stretch. Start in a tabletop position to do the pigeon pose. Lie down on your back to do the pretzel stretch. Lie flat on your back for the happy baby pose. Cross one leg over the other while lying down. Include a dynamic glute stretch in your pre-workout warm up. Finish your workouts with static glute stretches. Stretch your glutes every day if you sit a lot at work. Incorporate standing glute stretches into your workday. |
https://www.wikihow.pet/Deal-with-Common-Mating-Problems-in-Dogs | How to Deal with Common Mating Problems in Dogs | To deal with common mating problems in dogs, make sure that both dogs are at least 2 years old to ensure that they're mature enough to mate. If it's the female's first time, you may want to hold her in place, since it's important that the dogs are joined together until the male retracts from the female. If the dogs are successfully mating, but the female has trouble getting pregnant, have her tested for hormonal imbalances like persistent estrus. You should also have the male tested for prostate problems, which can affect the quality of its sperm. | Make sure your dog gets a pre-breeding health check. Before you decide to breed your dog, you should make sure that they are healthy enough to do so. Make an appointment with your vet. Explain that you are planning on breeding your dog, and ask the vet to examine your dog to ensure they are healthy enough for breeding. Dogs can also contract sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), so you need to make sure your dog is tested before you breed it. Canine STDs can infect both dogs and cause breeding complications. Try saying, "Dr. Johnson, I am interested in breeding Fluffy. Can you examine her to make sure that she's healthy enough to have a litter?" Know when your female dog is in heat. Not knowing when your dog is capable of mating is a common problem. When your female dog is in heat, her eggs mature, making her fertile and capable of producing puppies. If your female dog is not in heat, she cannot mate. In order to address this problem, you should be aware of your female dog's heat cycle. You should look for: Swelling of the vulva Tendency to mount objects or other dogs Vaginal discharge ranging from pink to red Avoid breeding your female dog at first heat. While it might be tempting to allow your female dog to mate during her first heat, you should avoid it entirely. While a female dog will go into her heat when it is between 6 and 12 months old, the dog is still maturing and should not mate. You should wait to breed your female dog until it is at least 2 years old. Make sure your male dog is ready to mate. While a male puppy might engage in mounting behavior as early as 3-4 weeks of age, a male dog will not produce sperm until much later. You should wait until your male dog is at least 2 years old before you allow it to mate. Understand dog intercourse. The breeding tie is the intercourse between a male and a female dog. The male's penis will enter the female's vagina. The penis glands will then swell inside the female's vagina, creating a tie. It's important that the two dogs not be separated during this time. The tie will last for 10-30 minutes, and during this time the majority of the male's sperm will be deposited in the female's vagina. If this is the female dog's first time breeding, then it's a good idea to hold the dog in place. Otherwise, it may move out of nervousness, potentially breaking the tie. If you have specific questions about dog intercourse, ask your veterinarian when you take your dog in for its next checkup. Prevent injuries during the breeding tie. After the male's penis enters the female's vagina and creates a breeding tie, it is important that you actively work toward preventing injuries to one or both dogs. You should stay near the dogs during the tie. Work to keep both animals calm, and do not let the female squirm free from the tie as this can injure the animals. Make sure the male dog's penis has retracted after the tie, as an injured dog will have difficulty breeding in the future. Understand some dogs will reject each other. A common mating problem is when a dog refuses to mate with another dog. For example, a female dog might refuse a male dog because he is her housemate. Submissive males, on the other hand, might refuse to mate with dominant females. If your dog refuses to mate with a particular dog, try using another mate. Test your dog for brucellosis. If you are having trouble mating your dog, it is possible your dog could be suffering from brucellosis. Brucellosis is an infectious bacterial disease that affects dogs. It can cause spontaneous abortion in pregnant dogs, and it can cause sterility in both male and female dogs. Symptoms include lethargy, swollen lymph nodes, difficulty walking, vaginal discharge, and swollen testicles. Have your male dog tested for prostate problems. It is not uncommon for male dogs to suffer from prostate problems. These issues are one of the major contributing causes of infertility in male dogs. Ask your vet to examine your dog for prostate problems that might affect its ejaculate volume and sperm mobility. Symptoms include difficulty urinating, lethargy, difficulty walking, and bloody discharge from the penis. Get your female dog tested for hormonal disturbances. Female dogs often do not produce puppies because of hormonal imbalances and the medical issues associated with such imbalances. Examples include persistent estrus, split heat, and hypothyroidism. Ask your vet to conduct tests to determine if your female dog is suffering from a medical condition resulting from hormonal disturbance. Consider a reproductive specialist. While some mating problems in dogs, such as poor timing, are easily remedied, others require extensive testing or treatment. If your dog is having reproductive issues that cannot be easily solved by you or your vet, consider taking your dog to a reproductive specialist. Veterinary teaching hospitals, for example, often have such specialists. Consider the ethics of breeding dogs. Before you decide to allow your dog to mate, you should seriously consider the ethical implications. It is important to understand that there is an overpopulation of dogs, and that every day dogs are euthanized. Instead of producing puppies, consider adopting a shelter dog. Breed for improvement. If you breed your dog, you should embrace the philosophy of “breed to improve.” This means that you should examine your dog carefully and note its flaws. Then, you should choose a mater that can either balance or entirely eliminate those flaws in offspring. For example, if your dog suffers from arthritis, you should breed her with a dog that does not have arthritis. If your dog suffers from a breed-specific health problem, such as hip dysplasia, try breeding him with a mate who does not suffer from the same ailment. Work to encourage genetic diversity. If you choose to breed your dog, you should make an effort to cooperate with other breeders in geographic regions other than your own. This will help facilitate the movement of genes within a breed between locales. This is especially important if you are dealing with a breed whose population is small. For example, you should not breed your dog with a dog that lives in your town. If possible try to make connections with a breeder in another part of your state or country. Make sure you ask for the genealogical history of any dog you choose to mate with your dog. This can ensure that you are not breeding your dog with a distant (or close!) relative. | Make sure your dog gets a pre-breeding health check. Know when your female dog is in heat. Avoid breeding your female dog at first heat. Make sure your male dog is ready to mate. Understand dog intercourse. Prevent injuries during the breeding tie. Understand some dogs will reject each other. Test your dog for brucellosis. Have your male dog tested for prostate problems. Get your female dog tested for hormonal disturbances. Consider a reproductive specialist. Consider the ethics of breeding dogs. Breed for improvement. Work to encourage genetic diversity. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-Cat-with-Kidney-Failure | How to Care for a Cat with Kidney Failure | It can be scary to hear that your cat has kidney failure, but with proper care, you can help improve its quality of life, and even help it live longer. Consider asking your vet to recommend a prescription diet low in protein, phosphate, and minerals, as these are difficult for a cat's kidneys to filter out. Your vet will probably also recommend a phosphate binder such as Renalzin, which you mix into your cat's food. Also, make sure your cat has plenty of fresh water to help compensate for the fact that its kidneys will lose the ability to retain water. | Consider a prescription diet. If your cat has kidney failure, talk to your veterinarian. He or she may prescribe a special renal diet that contains restricted amounts of high-quality protein and minimal amounts of phosphate and certain minerals. Protein, phosphate, and minerals are very difficult for the kidney to filter, so prescription diets that restrict these substances place less strain on the organ. Studies show that phosphate can also cause scar tissue to build up on the kidney, so it is doubly important to restrict phosphate in your cat's diet. Discuss the best protein and nutrient sources with your veterinarian if you plan to use a home-prepared diet. Veterinarians used to suggest relying primarily on white meats – chicken, turkey, and white fish – because they are easier to digest and place less strain on the kidney than other foods. However, a cat with kidney failure still needs to consume a balanced diet, including good sources of vitamins and certain minerals – especially calcium, which is essential for the heart, bones, and eyes. Your veterinarian may therefore recommend a more balanced mix of foods. Over time, a diet made up only of white meat may cause your cat to develop swollen joints, fragile bones, failing vision, or heart failure. Provide foods that your cat likes. The most important thing, for a cat with kidney failure, is to make sure it eats something. Some cats will starve themselves if they don't like the food they are offered; there's no point, then, in providing a prescription or home-prepared renal diet that remains uneaten. It's better to compromise and give your cat something appealing to eat. If your cat won't eat, it may develop a form of liver failure called hepatic lipidosis, which is just as dangerous as kidney failure. Talk to your veterinarian if you think this may be a concern. If your cat has a poor appetite (a common symptom of kidney failure), try hand feeding – many cats will start eating if offered food straight from their owners' fingertips. Alternatively, try dabbing a spot of food on your cat's whiskers so that it grooms the food off and gets the flavor in its mouth. Doing so can sometimes encourage a cat to eat. You can also try warming the food in the microwave so that it has a slightly stronger aroma and a more appealing temperature. Some cats will refuse cold food but eat if you warm it up. Give your cat phosphate binders. Phosphate binders cling to the phosphate in food, so that it remains in the digestive tract rather than crossing into the blood. Feeding your cat a phosphate binder will therefore lower its blood phosphate levels and slow the rate of scar tissue formation in the kidney. Talk to your veterinarian about the best phosphate binder for your cat. One of the most common, Renalzin, comes in a paste; you simply mix it with your cat's food, and it starts working with the first mouthful. For most cats, one pump of Renalzin, twice a day, is the optimal dose. If you have a larger cat and serve it bigger portions, your veterinarian may recommend two pumps of Renalzin, twice a day. Get an aluminum-based phosphate binder since they are more effective and have fewer side effects compared to ones that are calcium-based. Make sure your cat drinks plenty of water. A diseased kidney loses its ability to retain water and begins to produce weak urine. This loss of fluid must be replaced, so make sure your cat drinks lots of water. If your cat likes to drink from running water, consider purchasing a cat drinking fountain. Otherwise, try serving water in a very wide bowl; some cats seem not to like their whiskers to touch the edge of a dish. Give your cat antacid medications. Cats with failing kidneys tend to develop inflamed stomach linings, which causes heartburn and, in some cases, gastric ulcers. To provide some relief and encourage your cat's appetite, your veterinarian may recommend antacids. The typical prescription is omeprazole, a proton pump inhibitor that is extremely effective at reducing gastric acid secretion. Smaller cats usually get 1 mg/kg by mouth once a day; larger cats usually take half a 10 mg tablet once a day. If you do not have a prescription for omeprazole, you can also try famotidine, which is sold over the counter as Pepcid. Pepcid blocks histamine-induced gastric acid production. Unfortunately, dosing can be difficult. Larger cats typically need a quarter of a 20 mg tablet, but smaller cats usually need an eighth of a tablet, which can be impractical. Supplement with B vitamins. B vitamins are important for digestive health and a good appetite. This group of vitamins is water soluble, so your cat's increased thirst may wash them away too quickly into the urine. Your veterinarian may therefore recommend a course of injections – usually one injection a week for four weeks – to keep sufficient B vitamins in your cat's blood. Consider stimulating your cat’s appetite with medication. If your cat has no appetite – even if you've given antacids and made sure there's no problem with dehydration – you may need to provide an appetite stimulant. Ask your veterinarian about a low dose of intravenous diazepam, which sometimes gets cats to eat. Another possibility is Periactin, an antihistamine that has appetite-stimulating side effects. The usual dose is 0/1-0.5 mg/kg twice per day. Larger cats may require half a tablet, twice a day. Another appetite stimulant is mirtazapine which may only need to be given every 2-3 days. Medicate with ACE inhibitors. When given in the early stages of kidney disease, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE inhibitors) can prolong the life of the kidney. These drugs change the blood flow through the kidney and lower the pressure gradient so that less damage is inflicted on the micro circulation within the kidney. A common prescription is a 2.5 mg tablet of Fortekor once daily. Talk to your veterinarian about the best option for your cat. Note that ACE inhibitors will not cure kidney disease; they will simply protect your cat's kidney from some wear and tear. These drugs are not effective in advanced kidney disease. Understand the problems associated with hypertension. Cats with failing kidneys tend to have high blood pressure (also known as hypertension). This problem places them at greater risk of throwing blood clots and having strokes. In addition, hypertension can cause fluid to accumulate between the retina and the back of the eye, causing retinal detachment and sudden blindness. Check your cat's blood pressure regularly. Because hypertension is such an issue, you should make sure that your veterinarian checks your cat's blood pressure regularly. If your cat's blood pressure is slightly high, an ACE inhibitor may reduce it by as much as 10%. If the hypertension is more severe, your veterinarian may recommend an antihypertensive medication, such as amlodipine. The average dose is 0.625-1.25 mg once per day – this is about an eighth of a 5 mg tablet. Watch for urinary infections. Because cats with failing kidneys have weaker urine, they are more prone to urinary infections. Lower-grade infections may produce no symptoms, but they still need to be treated because bacteria can travel from the bladder into the kidney, contributing to renal damage. Your veterinarian should perform a urine culture at least twice a year in order to identify infections. He or she may prescribe antibiotics if the culture turns up positive. | Consider a prescription diet. Discuss the best protein and nutrient sources with your veterinarian if you plan to use a home-prepared diet. Provide foods that your cat likes. Give your cat phosphate binders. Make sure your cat drinks plenty of water. Give your cat antacid medications. Supplement with B vitamins. Consider stimulating your cat’s appetite with medication. Medicate with ACE inhibitors. Understand the problems associated with hypertension. Check your cat's blood pressure regularly. Watch for urinary infections. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Perk-Coffee | How to Perk Coffee | To perk coffee, begin by adding water to the reservoir of the percolator and ground coffee into the basket above it. Next, replace the lid and put the percolator on the stove over medium heat. If you see steam or if the water starts to boil, turn down the heat so that the coffee doesn't get too strong. After the coffee has percolated for 10 minutes, remove it from the heat. Then, open the percolator's lid and remove the basket with the coffee grounds before pouring yourself a cup of coffee. | Add water to the reservoir. As with other forms of brewing coffee (like "drip" brewing methods), the first thing you'll need to do is decide how much coffee you want to brew, then add this amount of water to the "tank" or "reservoir" portion of the percolator. Depending on how your percolator is assembled, you may simply be able to open the lid and pour your water in, or you may need to remove the upper "basket", which holds the coffee grounds during brewing, to access the reservoir. Most standard-size percolators will hold about 4 - 8 cups, though differently-sized varieties exist. As a reference point, four cups of coffee equates to roughly two standard-sized mugfuls. Add the chamber and tube assembly. Next, if you had to remove the upper basket/chamber or the central tube to add the water, replace them now. Though every percolator is different, the basic construction of most is nearly identical — the coffee grounds should sit above the water in a small basket or chamber lined with small holes. A narrow tube should extend from this basket down into the water below. When the water heats, it will naturally move us the tube and into the coffee grounds. As it soaks into the grounds, it will pick up some of their aroma and flavor and drain back down into the water below, where the cycle will repeat. Add ground coffee to the basket. Next, add your coffee grounds to the upper basket lined with small holes. You can use either fresh-ground coffee or pre-ground beans — which ever you prefer. Use roughly 1 tablespoon (15 ml) for each cup of water you use if you like your coffee strong. For weaker coffee, use 1 teaspoon per cup. As you use your percolator, you may find that you need to adjust these measurements to get your coffee tasting just right. As we'll discuss below, for most percolator brewing, you'll want to use a light, low-acidity roast and a fairly coarse grind — coarser than what you might use for a standard drip machine. Place your percolator over a medium heat source. You're ready to go — now, all you need to do is heat up the water in the bottom of your percolator and physics will do the rest. Your goal is to heat up your water to the point that it's quite hot, but not boiling. The hotter the water is, the more quickly it will absorb flavor from the beans, which means that boiling water can lead to coffee that's too strong. Use medium heat to get your water just below boiling, then reduce the heat to keep it hot, but not boiling or simmering. If you see steam at any point, your percolator is too hot and you should reduce your heat (or carefully move your percolator to a cooler area). In terms of heat sources, stove tops offer the most control, but you can also use campfires if you keep a careful eye on your coffee's progress. Always operate your percolator with medium heat from below — don't use an oven or another all-around heat source or you risk damaging your equipment and ruining your pot of coffee. Watch the glass globe to monitor your progress. Many percolators contain a glass or see-through globe at the top to allow you to monitor the progress of your coffee as it brews. As the water begins to circulate through the percolator, you'll notice it sputter or bubble within this globe. The faster the sputtering, the hotter your water is, and the darker the water, the more "done" the coffee is. Ideally, once you reach a nice medium heat, you want to see bubbling every few seconds or so. This represents a good "pace" for percolating. Don't use percolators with plastic globes — coffee aficionados claim that exposing hot coffee to plastic can cause the taste of the plastic to transfer into the coffee, resulting in a foul-tasting brew. Allow your coffee to percolate for about ten minutes. Depending on how strong you like your coffee and how hot you're heating your water, your percolator's ideal brewing time may differ. Note that brewing for ten minutes at the suggested medium pace will produce a pot of coffee that's fairly strong compared to an average pot of drip coffee. Obviously, for weaker coffee, you'll want to brew for less time, and for even stronger coffee, you'll want to brew for longer. Using a kitchen timer to keep track of your coffee's progress can be a smart idea, but don't simply set your timer and come back when it goes off — if you do this, it's easy to over-heat your coffee and create a bitter, muddy product. Remove your percolator from the heat source. When your coffee has finished percolating, carefully remove it from its heat source (use a towel or oven mitts to avoid burning yourself). Immediately open the percolator's lid and carefully remove the basket which contains the soaked coffee grounds. Discard the grounds (or recycle them ). Don't leave the grounds in the percolator — if you do this, they can spill into your cup when you pour the coffee and may continue to make your coffee stronger by dripping into the coffee in the reservoir. After removing the basket with the grounds, your perked coffee is ready to serve. Enjoy your strong, old-fashioned style cup of joe! Add water and coffee as normal. Automatic electric percolators operate according to the same physical principals as stove top percolators, but they generally require less work and supervision on your part. To begin, add your water and coffee as you normally would. Decide how much coffee you want, then add this amount of water to the bottom chamber. Remove the basket from the upper chamber and add your coffee grounds. The ratios for the amount of grounds you should use for your water is the same for electric percolators as it is for stove top percolators — use 1 tablespoon per cup of water for strong coffee and 1 teaspoon for weak coffee. Close the lid and plug your percolator in. Once your percolator is assembled and full of coffee and water, your work is basically done. Connect the percolator's plug to a nearby outlet. Most percolators will begin to heat automatically, but if yours has an "on" button, you may need to hit this at this point. Your percolator's internal heating element should activate and begin to heat the water in the bottom chamber, causing it to cycle up the tube, through the coffee grounds, and back down into the reservoir as it would in a standard percolator. Wait about seven to ten minutes for the coffee to brew. All you need to do now is wait. Most electric percolators take about as long to finish brewing as stove top percolators — usually about seven to ten minutes. Many electric percolators will have an internal sensor that prevent them from heating the coffee past its optimal temperature, but if yours doesn't, you may need to watch the percolator as it brews. Otherwise, assuming there are no small children or pets in the area who may burn themselves on the hot machine, simply set a timer and let your percolator do the rest. Remember that if you ever see steam coming out of the percolator, it's brewing too hot. If you see this with an electric percolator, unplug immediately and allow it to cool for a minute or two before re-connecting it. Unplug immediately and remove grounds after percolating. When your timer goes off (or, if you have a percolator with an automatic timer, it shuts off automatically), unplug your percolator. Carefully open the lid and remove the upper basket containing the soaked coffee grounds. Discard these as you wish. At this point, you're done! Serve your coffee and enjoy! Choose a smooth, low-acidity coffee. As noted above, coffee that's brewed in a percolator can tend towards being somewhat strong, bitter, and "muddy". This is because, unlike many other brewing methods, percolating involves continuously recirculating water through the coffee grounds, rather than simply allowing it to drain through once. However, with a few simple tricks, it's possible to make coffee in a percolator that's not over-strong. For instance, starting with a coffee roast that's classified as being light, smooth, low-caffeine, and minimally acidic can help reduce the bitterness of percolated coffee. Though percolating will usually make your coffee stronger than it would otherwise be, starting with "mild" ingredients helps minimize this effect. If you're looking for weaker coffee, try buying a roast labelled "mild" or "smooth" from your favorite coffee brand (like Folgers, etc.) or opt for a "dark" roast — though these can be bitter, they have lower caffeine content and acidity than light roasts. If you have the money to spend, you might also want to try a mild specialty roast, like Oromo Yirgacheffe Ground Fair trade Coffee. Also, don't forget that you also always have the option to brew decaf! Use a coarse grind. When it comes to coffee grounds, in general, the finer the beans are ground, the more quickly they'll transfer their flavor to the water and the stronger coffee they'll produce. Because of this, when you use a percolator to make coffee, you'll usually want to use a coarse grind. Coarse-ground beans will interact with the water less quickly, resulting in a final pot that's not quite as strong as it would otherwise be. If you have your own coffee grinder, try using its "coarse" setting. Otherwise, if you buy your coffee pre-ground, look for a "coarse" label on the packaging. Keep water temperature between 195 - 200o F (90.6 - 93.3o C). When percolating, temperature is key — too cold and the water won't travel up the central tube, but too hot and you risk having an over-done cup of coffee that unappealingly strong. For optimal brewing, you'll usually want to keep your water between 195 - 200 F for the duration of the percolating process. This is just below the point that water begins to steam and boil (212 F (100 C)), but not so cold that the brewing process will be needlessly prolonged. Try using a kitchen thermometer to check the temperature of your water as your coffee percolates. For an accurate reading, try not to touch the thermometer to the hot metal sides of the pot — instead, carefully submerge it in the liquid. Allow to settle after brewing to eliminate cloudiness. Percolated coffee has a reputation for being somewhat cloudy or "muddy". Luckily, in most cases, this is easy to fix. Simply allow your coffee to sit for a few minutes after percolating. This gives the particles and sediment suspended in the water time to settle, resulting in a clearer cup of coffee. Note that doing this can produce a "puddle" of sediment at the bottom of your cup when you're done drinking. You may want to avoid drinking this, as some coffee drinkers find this to be bitter and unappetizing. Keep percolating time short. If you can't get your percolated coffee to taste better with any other method, simply reduce the amount of time that you allow it to percolate for. As noted throughout the article, percolating coffee can produce an unusually strong final product compared to other methods, so reducing the amount of time that you allow your coffee to brew can counteract this. Though most brewing instructions will recommend percolating for about seven to ten minutes, it's OK to brew for as short as four or five minutes if it results in coffee that you find more palatable. If you're unsure of how long to percolate your coffee, err on the short side, but be willing to experiment to find the perfect brewing length that's just right for you. | Add water to the reservoir. Add the chamber and tube assembly. Add ground coffee to the basket. Place your percolator over a medium heat source. Watch the glass globe to monitor your progress. Allow your coffee to percolate for about ten minutes. Remove your percolator from the heat source. Add water and coffee as normal. Close the lid and plug your percolator in. Wait about seven to ten minutes for the coffee to brew. Unplug immediately and remove grounds after percolating. Choose a smooth, low-acidity coffee. Use a coarse grind. Keep water temperature between 195 - 200o F (90.6 - 93.3o C). Allow to settle after brewing to eliminate cloudiness. Keep percolating time short. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Dress-Like-a-Cowgirl | How to Dress Like a Cowgirl | If you want to dress like a cowgirl, go for a country charm look by putting on a pair of bootcut, blue denim jeans, which are the usual pants worn by cowgirls. However, if you'd rather wear a skirt or summer pants, you can choose a denim skirt or a pair of denim shorts. Pair this with a button-down shirt and roll the sleeves up to your elbows if it's long-sleeved. For your headwear, select the well-known Western-style cowboy hat in your choice of black, tan, brown or white. Complete your outfit with a pair of cowboy boots and you can choose from round, square or pointed toes. | Get a pair of bootcut, blue denim jeans. Alternatively, you can wear cutoff denim shorts or a denim skirt. Wear a button-down shirt. These shirts can either be short-sleeved or long-sleeved. For a more casual look, wear a t-shirt. Roll the sleeves of your button-down at your elbows. Find a Western-style cowboy hat. These kinds of hats come in black, brown, tan, and white. If you don't want to wear a hat, try a bandana that matches the color of your button-up shirt. Keep the tied part on the side of your head, and tie it like a bow. Get a pair of cowboy boots. Traditionally, cowboy boots are made of leather, but are also available in faux-leather and exotic skins like alligator, snake, and buffalo. These boots also come in a variety of toe styles: round toe, square toe, or pointed toe. If you plan on wearing your boots in muddy or wet conditions, consider getting a pair with rubber soles. Wear your hair down in braids or a low ponytail. Tie a bandana around your neck. Traditional cowboys and cowgirls alike used bandanas to absorb their sweat while working on the ranch. Nowadays, bandanas are mostly worn as a fashion statement. Tie the bandana behind your neck so that the triangle part is facing your front. (Only if you wore the cowgirl hat instead of the bandana) Wear a Western-style belt. Cowgirl belts are usually made of brown leather, and have large silver, gold, or turquoise buckles. For extra flare, find one with braided or medallion embellishments. | Get a pair of bootcut, blue denim jeans. Wear a button-down shirt. Find a Western-style cowboy hat. Get a pair of cowboy boots. Wear your hair down in braids or a low ponytail. Tie a bandana around your neck. Wear a Western-style belt. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Roast-Cauliflower | How to Roast Cauliflower | To roast cauliflower, start by removing the stem and leaves off of the cauliflower head, and then cut the head into four quarters. Next, drizzle olive oil, add spices, and toss the cauliflower to coat it uniformly. Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray and spread the florets out in an even layer. Then, drizzle any remaining oil or spices on top of the cauliflower, and roast in the oven for 30 to 40 minutes at 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally, turn the florets occasionally with tongs and test for doneness with a fork. | Purchase a medium head of cauliflower. Rinse it thoroughly under running water. Place a baking rack in the center of the oven. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 Celsius). Pull the leaves off of the base of the cauliflower head. Cut off the bottom of the stem and discard it with the leaves. Cut the head into four quarters. Separate the quarter into florets by cutting along the base through the hard center. Florets look like little trees. Each quarter should yield between six and eight florets. It's best to do this with a knife, rather than your hands, because the flat surfaces will caramelize in the pan. Place the florets in a bowl. Drizzle your olive oil over the cauliflower. Add your spices. Cauliflower can be seasoned with any number of spices, depending upon your tastes and the meal it is accompanying. Use salt and pepper for mild seasoning. You can also use these in addition to other spices. Mince two cloves of garlic and add a tsp. of lemon zest for a healthy, Italian flavor. Choose cumin or paprika to create a smoky flavor. Add oregano, thyme or an Italian spice mix for a bolder Italian flavor. Sprinkle with red pepper flakes to make the cauliflower spicy. Toss the cauliflower with your hands to coat it uniformly with spices and oil. Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray or brush with oil. Pour the florets onto the sheet. Spread them into an even layer. Drizzle any oil or spice at the bottom of the bowl over the top of the cauliflower. Place the tray into the oven. Roast for 30 to 40 minutes, turning occasionally with tongs. Test for doneness with a fork. If the florets are easily pierced, they are done. Both sides should be nicely browned and caramelized. | Purchase a medium head of cauliflower. Place a baking rack in the center of the oven. Pull the leaves off of the base of the cauliflower head. Cut the head into four quarters. Place the florets in a bowl. Drizzle your olive oil over the cauliflower. Add your spices. Toss the cauliflower with your hands to coat it uniformly with spices and oil. Spray a baking sheet with non-stick cooking spray or brush with oil. Pour the florets onto the sheet. Drizzle any oil or spice at the bottom of the bowl over the top of the cauliflower. Place the tray into the oven. Test for doneness with a fork. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Scratch-or-Be-a-Turntablist | How to Scratch or Be a Turntablist | To scratch or be a turntablist, first get the right equipment for a basic DJ set-up, which includes a pair of direct-drive turntables, a mixer, and an anti-static slipmat. Then begin to build up a collection of vinyl records to start sampling, but make sure to listen to the records before you buy so you can check to see if they have usable music to build sounds. Or, if you want more modern gear, consider buying a digital controller and CD turntables which can create beat loops on the fly and play tracks in reverse. | Get a basic DJ set-up. For most DJs, this means you need to get a pair of direct-drive turntables, a mixer, and collection of vinyl records to practice sampling and scratching. However, digital controller and CDJs (CD turntables) have become increasingly popular, and many offer features that enable them to be used to scratch, create beat loops on the fly, play tracks in reverse or at very fast or slow rates, and other functions that make them great fits for turntablism. If you don't own a turntable, buying your first can be an intimidating proposition, not to mention that to really be a turntablist, you'll need two. You can technically "scratch" with a single turntable, but it won't be making music. As long as you've got a direct-drive model, it should be fine for scratching. Don't break the bank. Find a mixer that has a curve adjustment on the cross fader. Curve-adjustment allows you to control the sound switching back and forth between your turntables more easily. A good scratch mixer includes a crossfader that does not have to be exactly in the middle before the sound is crossed over into the new channel. You don't absolutely have to have one of these mixers, but they make mixing a lot easier later on when you start doing advanced techniques. Use a slipmat between the platter and the record. Anti-static slipmats are essential to the scratching DJ. You want to be able to put a finger or your hand on the record and stop the record from moving without stopping the whole platter from moving. If you have a cheaper set of turntables you may need to cut additional pieces of plastic, wax or parchment paper. Plastic carrier bags from the supermarket work really well. You can buy a product called "magic carpet" that will help reduce friction. If you want to use your own slipmats or have a problem with stoppage or you can pick up a product called "butter rugs" and just use those as your permanent slipmat.They are the slickest slipmats available. You may still need to reduce the friction further but it depends on your taste and equipment. Build up your collection of records to sample. A turntablist needs an eclectic variety of vinyl records from which to build music. A turntablist is a mixmaster, using the beats from some records and sampled portions of other records to build sounds. It's a complicated collage-style way of making music that can only be accomplished with lots of practice, and lots of records. Most scratch records have a series of samples, alternating break-beats and sound effects. Don't just buy any record you find online, it's best to listen to the records to make sure they have something on it that is usable in your practice/performance. For DJs, non-skippable records have been designed to repeat the samples in a way that if your needle skips (as it will) you will remain on the sounds you are trying to use. If you don't have regular records, then try to wear in the record a little by finding the samples that you like and then pushing the record back and forth to get the needle and the groove. You can use a capella records or records that you already have and try to find a sample to use, but most DJs normally end up picking up a few scratch records to use in practice and battles. Find a sample or sound on your record to practice scratching on. Listen to records with an ear for little moments around which you might build a whole song. Break-beats, the moments during which all the instruments drop out and the drums remain, are commonly isolated for use as the beats in hip-hop tracks, while instrumental tracks often make good melody lines to pair them with. Listen closely to records and stop the record when you hear something you might like to use. Go back and try to find the exact moment that sound begins. Mark the groove. In the old days, DJs would take small, round stickers that teachers would use on essay papers and place the sticker directly on the record, next to the groove, just beyond the sample. This provides both a visual cue to where the sample starts, and will bump the stylus back into the groove to re-bump the sample. Some DJs prefer not to put stickers on the vinyl itself, though it's the classic way of doing it. You can also try to mark the groove however works best for you, if you're going to tape your beats or mix them on the fly. Stop the record with your fingertips. After the sound finishes playing and then slowly bring the record backwards at close to the same speed as it played forward. It should sound like you just hit reverse on your turntable. The classic "scratch" sound comes from picking an appropriate blank beat, like a trumpet blast or some other long sound effect, and rocking the platter back and forth over that sound, producing the distinctive "scratch" sound. Put on another song and do this to the beat. A scratch by itself would be like a movie made entirely of explosions. Cool at first? Sure. Boring after a couple minutes? You bet. To scratch properly, you've got to pair your samples and your manipulations of the record with a beat. Find an appropriate beat on which to build your music. Look for the break-beats in songs that you like, especially old soul and R&B samples make for good break-beats from which you might build music. Push the record forward over the sample instead of allowing the sound to play at regular speed or slowing it down. You will get a high pitched sound. Do the same for the reverse, pull it back at a similar speed. Then, do this to music. This is sometimes known as the baby scratch. Start with a slower beat and then get faster and faster as you go along. When you are able to do them at a good speed, try to vary the rhythms by throwing in rests to the beats you develop. Listen closely to some beat-makers. Do some research into beat-making and explore the way your favorite DJs and producers make beats, adding sounds and textures from a variety of sources. If your ultimate goal is to battle or just to make cool analog songs, you need to learn from the greats. RZA pioneered the lo-fi use of classic soul and samurai film samples, incorporating a few elements into unforgettable beats for the early run of Wu-Tang albums and solo projects from the individual members. Check out Raekwon's "Ice Cream," which features a sped-up easy-listening guitar sample, a beat, and nothing else. Madlib's use of jazz records and 80's ephemera makes him one of the most sought-out modern producers, fusing old and new in surprisingly fresh ways. Check out Madvillainy, his project with MF Doom, and his record with Freddie Gibbs for great examples of turntablist technique. Learn to beat-match on the fly. It's very important to match the beat of one sample to the beat of another, or your music is going to sound chaotic and, frankly, bad. Use a metronome as you're messing around to get a sense of the beats-per-minute of the different samples that you like using and match one to the other. Build music by matching the beats. Many DJs will mark the BPMs on the record sleeves themselves, making it easy to quickly build beats and songs while you're working. Layer different sounds to create music. Experiment and play around with a variety of sounds and textures to make music that sounds good. For some DJs, the ultimate goal is to take little samples from the most unexpected sources: latin jazz, spoken word recordings, or easy listening lounge music. Turn it into danceable awesomeness. Turntablist rule of thumb: Combined with a drum track by the Meters, almost anything sounds cool. Play records at different speeds. Don't be contained to playing a track at the exact same speed to match the beats. RZA sampled a corny Earl Klugh guitar track, sped up and pitched up, to create the distinctive sample that runs all throughout "Ice Cream." The only limit on your music making is your imagination. Don’t over-scratch. Nobody wants to hear a DJ who spends an entire set making scratch noises on the records. Think of it as a little seasoning for the song, not as a primary way of making music. There's usually only one or two guitar solos in a rock song, and there should only be one or two scratches in a DJ beat. Learn some basic music theory. A turntablist is a percussionist, which means you need to have a good understanding of rhythm. You will be practicing scratching to music and then eventually making music using records. When you are scratching to a beat, you are scratching out a rhythm. If you have a complete understanding of rhythm, you can develop your skills to recreate these rhythms properly. Most hip-hop and dance music is in 4/4. That means for each bar of music there are 4 beats to the bar. Each beat can be subdivided in only a finite amount of ways. Count these out loud while you listen to music. Each beat will be place between [brackets]: [1] [2] [3] [4] [1 and] [2 and] [3 and] [4 and] [1 e and a] [2 e and a] [3 e and a] [4 e and a] [1 trip let] [2 trip let] [3 trip let] [4 trip let] [1 trip let and trip let] [2 trip let and trip let] [3 trip let and trip let] [ 4 trip let and trip let] Learn how to count these to the beats of songs you already like. A good way to introduce yourself to beats is to play the snare drum. You can go to the Vic Firth website listed below to get a feel for how beats are subdivided, and how the subdivisions that include rests sound. Once you can sing these rhythms or at least some of them out loud, you can start using these as a foundation for the scratches you develop. | Get a basic DJ set-up. Find a mixer that has a curve adjustment on the cross fader. Use a slipmat between the platter and the record. Build up your collection of records to sample. Find a sample or sound on your record to practice scratching on. Mark the groove. Stop the record with your fingertips. Put on another song and do this to the beat. Push the record forward over the sample instead of allowing the sound to play at regular speed or slowing it down. Listen closely to some beat-makers. Learn to beat-match on the fly. Layer different sounds to create music. Play records at different speeds. Don’t over-scratch. Learn some basic music theory. Learn how to count these to the beats of songs you already like. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Protect-Outdoor-Furniture | How to Protect Outdoor Furniture | To protect your outdoor wooden furniture, start by cleaning it with a scrub brush and a solution made from water and dishwasher detergent, making sure to scrub with the grain of the wood. Then, let the furniture dry completely and brush on a coat of furniture protector using a paint brush. Next, paint the wood with a wood stain or an oil-based paint to protect it from the sun's UV rays. Once the paint is dry, brush on a coat of water repellent and finish with a coat of polyurethane. | Remove fabric. If your cushions have removable fabric, throw them in the wash. Follow the manufacturer's instructions carefully, and allow them to air dry completely before inserting the cushion back inside. If your cushions have a non-removable cover, you'll have to use another method if you want to clean them. For cushions with non-removable fabric, consider purchasing slip covers for protection. Clean the upholstery. Make sure the upholstery or cushions have been thoroughly spot-cleaned with dish soap or laundry detergent and warm water using a soft brush, but avoid using harsh chemicals. Scrub the fabric in every area, and let the soap sink in to the cushion. You can also try tossing your cushions into a power washer if possible. Rinse the upholstery. It's best to rinse the cushions with a hose to dilute the chemicals. If you can't use a hose, soak a towel in water and use the damp towel to rinse the fabric. Let the upholstery dry. After washing, make sure that the upholstery dries completely. Wet or damp upholstery may interfere and reduce the effectiveness of protection. Furthermore, if the upholstery does not dry completely, there is a good chance that it will develop mildew. Apply a fabric protector. When the upholstery is dry, spray a fabric protector all over the entire surface to protect from discoloration. You can find fabric protectors at most stores that sell cleaning supplies. Check the can or bottle to make sure that the fabric protector will not damage or discolor your furniture. Reapply the fabric protector at the start of every season to minimize upholstery damage. Ground your cushions. If you must leave the furniture outside, make sure the wind doesn't blow your cushions away. An easy way to keep your cushions in place is to strap them to the furniture with Velcro. Store your cushions. Make sure your cushions are dry before placing them into non-plastic storage bags, to ensure no mildew builds up over time. Store your cushions in a cool, dry place such as the basement, away from humid areas. Remove any padding. Take off any upholstery or cushions before washing the wood with soapy water. Make sure that your furniture is in good condition before you go through the effort of protecting it, or else you may find that your efforts were wasted in light of internal rot and decay. Clean your wood furniture. Take your scrub brush and soak it in a water and dishwasher detergent solution. Scrub the wood going in the direction of the grain. Let the wood dry thoroughly, and sand and rough spots going in the direction of the wood. Protect the frames of the furniture. Apply a furniture protector using a paint brush to every area of the frame. Protection against the elements is important if you want to prolong the life of your furniture. Paint the wood. Paint is the best way to protect wooden furniture from the elements because the pigments in paint offer a good degree of protection against the sun's UV radiation. Some forms of paint can even protect against heat and water. Choose an oil paint with a spray-on sealer. Paint on outdoor furniture tends to chip and peel when used regularly, so you will need to reapply the paint once or twice every year. Another method is to sand it, then apply an oil or stain to protect the wood. Apply a stain or water repellent. This will prolong the aesthetic beauty of your furniture, especially if you have a lot of wooden furniture. Water repellents help prevent water from soaking into your furniture, and they also quicken the evaporation of moisture from within the wood. This reduces the chance that your furniture will warp, weaken, or rot. Apply a sealer coat of polyurethane after using a stain or water repellant. This will make it last longer. Keep in mind that stain and water repellents typically need to be reapplied every 2 to 3 years for maximum protection. When choosing a repellent, avoid repellents with high oil percentages. High amounts of oil will promote the sticking of particles to your furniture, which can detract from their appearance. Clean the metal. Wood and metal furniture should be scrubbed and wiped down with a sponge using a cleaning solution that is designed specifically for your furniture's material. Remove any tough stains with a toothbrush. Remove rust stains. Metal is prone to rust stains which should be carefully removed with a wire brush. You can also use the wire wheel attachment that comes with your power drill. Scrape the rust away making sure not to scratch off any design that comes with the furniture. Rinse and dry. Hose off the metal or wipe in down with a water-soaked towel ensuring no soap or rust is leftover. Let the metal dry completely before applying your protective coating. Coat metal furniture. Purchase a container of outdoor furniture protector, which is applied directly to the furniture's frame, and apply it with a paintbrush. This will minimize the impact of heat and UV radiation. When applying, be sure to be in a well-ventilated area, and wear rubber gloves and a mask. Apply a spray-on furniture varnish afterwards. Lift the furniture up when transferring it. You'll want to avoid having furniture bumping into another piece of furniture or any other obstacles that might be in the way in order to avoid chipping the metal. Lift the furniture off the ground when you transfer it. You will probably need more than one person for this job. Make sure that there's nothing surrounding your outdoor sofas, chairs and tables that won't fall or bump into them. Clean your wicker furniture. Clean your wicker furniture by scrubbing it with a sponge or rag that's been dipped in soap and water. Rinse the wicker with a hose. Tuck in any loose strands. When damp, wicker is easier to bend and move. If your wicker has any pieces sticking out, you can put them back into place while you're cleaning. Coat with wax. You can protect your wicker furniture by using a paint brush to apply wax, varnish, lacquer or shellac. After your furniture is dry, apply a thin layer of paste wax, then buff it out with a clean, dry cloth to make it shine. Measure your furniture. Before you invest in a furniture cover, you'll need to have its correct dimensions. Measure the height, width and length of your outdoor sofas, chairs and tables to ensure that you purchase the correct size. Choose a furniture cover. Covering your tables, chairs, benches and other outdoor furniture with a protective furniture cover can protect your furniture from water damage and UV radiation. Make sure you choose a vented furniture cover so that moisture doesn't build up and create mildew. Stack your furniture. Stack your chairs and tables, one on top of the other, if their structure allows it. This method will save you space, and you can cloak the whole lot of them under one furniture cover. Bring the furniture indoors during the cooler seasons. If possible, store your outdoor furniture in a shed or a garage when not in use, especially during the winter months. Keeping your furniture in a dry location will reduce the amount of exposure to sun, weather, and temperature. There's no better way to protect the metal, wood, fabric and other materials from damage. Place your furniture on top of wooden boards so the bottom doesn't get dirty. You can also make use of your outdoor furniture by using it as indoor furniture during winter. | Remove fabric. Clean the upholstery. Rinse the upholstery. Let the upholstery dry. Apply a fabric protector. Ground your cushions. Store your cushions. Remove any padding. Clean your wood furniture. Protect the frames of the furniture. Paint the wood. Apply a stain or water repellent. Clean the metal. Remove rust stains. Rinse and dry. Coat metal furniture. Lift the furniture up when transferring it. Clean your wicker furniture. Tuck in any loose strands. Coat with wax. Measure your furniture. Choose a furniture cover. Stack your furniture. Bring the furniture indoors during the cooler seasons. |
https://www.wikihow.life/Whiten-Clothes | How to Whiten Clothes | If you want to whiten clothes, try adding 1/2 cup of lemon juice or 1 cup of distilled white vinegar to your laundry during the wash cycle. If there are stubborn stains on your white clothes, make a thick paste of baking soda and water and apply it to the stain before washing it. After you wash your clothes, let them hang to dry in the sunshine, since the sun's UV rays will act as a natural whitener. | Use chlorine bleach to treat white clothes. Chlorine bleach is a powerful whitener, but it should only be used on white clothes. Start your washer with the regular detergent, add 3/4 cup of chlorine bleach to the water, then add the laundry. Check the clothing care tag to verify that you can use chlorine bleach on the garment beforehand, even if the clothing is white. Bleach can damage some fabrics. If you have a patterned or multi-colored item you want to brighten up, use a method aside from chlorine bleach. Use non-chlorine bleach to wash any washable clothing. Non-chlorine bleaches use oxygen or hydrogen peroxide to whiten fabrics. This is a safer bet for fabrics that aren't safe to use with chlorine bleach, because it's gentler. OxyClean, Clorox 2 and other products bleach items without using chlorine. Here's how to use them: Check the labels of your items to make sure it's safe to bleach them with non-chlorine bleach Make a solution of the non-chlorine bleach product according to the instructions on the bottle Soak your items in the solution overnight Wash as usual the next day Add 1/2 cup of distilled white vinegar to the washing machine for enhanced brightening Use non-chlorine bleach for spot treatments. You can also treat smaller stains with non-chlorine bleach or just plain hydrogen peroxide. Try to catch the stain before it dries and sets if you can. Here's an effective stain removal method: Pour the non-chlorine bleach or peroxide on the fresh stain, completely soaking it Let the item sit in a non-chlorine bleach/water solution overnight Launder the item as usual the next day Use bluing liquid. This liquid is a combination of ferric ferrocyanide and water. It brightens whites by adding the slightest hint of blue, offsetting that yellowish hue that t-shirts, socks and sheets can take on. Use sunshine as a whitener. Wash cotton and linen sheets, tablecloths and other white laundry items. Afterward, allow them to dry in direct sunlight. Hang them on a clothesline or lay them on the lawn to let the sunshine help whiten them. The sun's UV rays will brighten your items right up. Try lemon juice. Add 1/2 cup of lemon juice to the wash cycle, along with your detergent. Lemon is a great natural whitening agent. Be careful though - it can leave bleach marks on colored items. It's best to use lemon juice only on pure white items. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your laundry detergent. This is an excellent natural whitener you probably have in your kitchen cabinet. To remove stubborn spots from whites, pretreat the spot by applying a thick paste of baking soda and water. Use borax. Sodium borate, or borax, is a natural mineral that helps break down stains that cause items to yellow. Add 1/2 cup to your washing machine at the beginning of the wash cycle for best effect. Use distilled vinegar. Pour 1 cup of distilled white vinegar into the washer with your regular washing detergent. This is a great way to perk up clothes that are looking a little dingy. | Use chlorine bleach to treat white clothes. Use non-chlorine bleach to wash any washable clothing. Use non-chlorine bleach for spot treatments. Use bluing liquid. Use sunshine as a whitener. Try lemon juice. Add 1/2 cup of baking soda to your laundry detergent. Use borax. Use distilled vinegar. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Unhook-a-Fish | How to Unhook a Fish | To unhook a fish, start by holding it around its fins beneath the gills, and putting your first finger under its chin so it doesn't flop around. Then, if the fish is hooked along the edge of its mouth, slide the hook out of its mouth the same way it went in. For a fish that's swallowed the hook, try using a pair of long-nosed pliers or scissors to reach into its mouth and remove the hook. If that doesn't work, try cutting away a small piece of flesh surrounding the hook, but only if you think the fish can survive the cut. | Reel the fish in until you can grab it with your hand. Keep the fish in the water as long as possible—do not bring it onto land, where it can flop about wildly, until you are close enough to grab it. Land the fish quickly. Don't let it fight and jump until it's exhausted. Increase the drag on your reel, and make sure that your fishing line is in good condition. Hold the fish firmly so that it cannot wriggle free. Use one hand to grasp the fish around its pectoral fins (the fins below the gills). Place your index finger under the fish's chin to keep it from flopping around. This is a solid position, and it will be much more difficult for your catch to escape before you have removed the hook. Avoid dangling your catch by the jaw—it will flop around in the air trying to return to the water, and it will be difficult to grab it again. Consider placing the fish into a fine-meshed net that retains a bit of water. The fish will be less likely to flop around if it can lay in a bit of water. It can be much easier to remove the hook if the fish is relatively calm and you don't need to hold it in the air. You can find fine-meshed nets in fishing supply stores. Catch it quickly. A fish that's been reeled in slowly and pushed to exhaustion is much less likely to survive after it's released. If you catch and release a fish without subjecting it to undue stress, it can recover within 24 hours, to the extent that it will show no measurable effects from the experience. Use a barbless circle hook, not a "J" hook. If you plan to release the fish, it's important to use a humane hook that is less likely to fatally injure your catch. A J-shaped hook is much more liable to snag in a fish's guts and gill, making it difficult to humanely remove. The pointed end of the circle hook is turned perpendicular to the shank to form a loop-like shape. In general, long-shanked hooks (with a longer bit to grab above the actual hook) are much easier to remove than short-shanked hooks, although the latter may present bait better. One study showed that striped bass hooked with a circle hook were 11 times as likely to survive than those that were caught with "J" hooks. Also avoid using treble hooks—the type with three points. These hooks are much more likely to strike a blood vessel and fatally harm the fish. Consider buying soft-wire hooks that naturally unbend as you pull them from a fish. These hooks are less sturdy than traditional hooks, and thus perhaps less efficient when it comes to actually catching fish. They may be worth the lower catch count, however, if you value a humane and low-effort catch-and-release method. Pull a hook straight out of a fish's lip. If the hook is caught along the edge of your catch's mouth, you can slide it out. Try not to tear the fish's lip when you pull the hook out. Take your time, and pull the hook out the same way it went in. Remove a hook that a fish has swallowed. The way that you handle this situation depends on what you intend to do with the fish. If you plan to release the fish or keep it alive for another reason, you will need to be very careful not to harm the fish any further. If you plan to kill the fish anyway, you do not need to be as careful when you remove it. If you are going to eat the fish, remove the hook when you gut it. It's very important to remove the hook before cooking and eating the fish. You don't want to bite down on the hook yourself. If you cook the hook, the layer of lead that coats the hook will melt into the fish, and anyone that eats the fish will run the risk of lead poisoning. If you are throwing the fish back or otherwise keeping it alive, try to cut away a small piece of flesh and remove the hook. If you cannot remove the hook without killing your catch, cut the line as close as possible to the fish's mouth. Slide your bait over the shaft of the hook so that the fish will be able to feed regularly. Then, let the fish go. The fish will have a better chance of survival if you leave the hook in than if you rip it out. Use a pair of long-nosed pliers or scissors to reach into the fish's mouth. This tool may give you a more precise grip on the hook, and it removes any danger of the fish biting your finger. Slowly rotate the hook out the way it came. If the fish doesn't have sharp teeth, and hook is shallow enough, you can take the hook out with your fingers. Try using the pliers to bend the hook away from the entry point. If you straighten the hook, it may be easier to pull it out without harming the fish. You can also use pliers to dull the barb on your hook. This makes it easier for you to get the hook out, and catch-and-release fishing is much more humane if you don't mangle the fish. Consider using a disgorger. A disgorger is used in coarse fishing to remove a fishhook from deep inside the mouth of a fish—a hook that you cannot reach using fingers alone. The tool is typically made of plastic or metal, and it's typically used on smaller fish. To use the disgorger, slip the end over a tight line and slide it down to the bend of the hook. Push down on the tool to remove the hook. Under the pressure of the line, the hook will tighten against the end of the disgorger, allowing you to remove it from the mouth. Decide what to do with the fish. If you are strictly fishing for fun, you can practice catch-and-release and throw the fish back into the water. You can choose to keep the fish for cooking, trophy stuffing, or keeping in an aquarium. Ultimately, you are making one choice: keep the fish, or release the fish. Know the law. In the U.S., you must immediately return a fish to the water if it is too small, if it is caught out of season, or if catching it puts you over the daily catch limit. Before you go fishing, research the size and quantity limits for your area. If the Department of Fish and Game has placed restrictions upon fishing in a certain area, it has done so for a reason. If you don't abide by these limits, you run the risk of depleting local fish populations, destabilizing an ecosystem, and ruining the area for future fishermen. Catch and release. If you have an aversion to killing the fish (or simply don't want to go through the hassle of gutting it), you can remove the hook and release your catch back into the water from whence it came. This is the most humane choice. Be extra-careful when removing the hook—if you tear the fish's mouth or gills, it may bleed out in the water, and it may be vulnerable to attack from other fish. If you throw the fish back, release it where you caught it, and give it a chance to swim away before you cast again. Make sure to put the fish into a safe spot where it can quickly reorient itself. Never try to pull on the line to free the hook. This can severely damage the fish. Jerking the line may tug the hook through the flesh of the fish, creating deeper lacerations and making the animal more likely to bleed out in the water. Handle the fish as little as possible. If you must touch the fish, make sure that your hands are wet.The fish's scales and protective slime may stick to dry hands, making your catch much less equipped to survive in the water. Pacify the fish to make the hook easier to remove. Hold the fish belly up in the water to disorient the fish for a few seconds. This should briefly pacify the fish, giving you enough time to remove the hook and return it to its habitat. Slip the fish into the water; do not throw it. If you throw the fish at the surface of the water, it may be stunned or killed by the impact. Hold the fish firmly, in two hands, and bring it as close as possible to the water's edge before letting it wriggle free. If the fish doesn't swim away, gently move it back and forth in the water. This helps it get a fresh dose of oxygen by moving water over its gills. | Reel the fish in until you can grab it with your hand. Hold the fish firmly so that it cannot wriggle free. Catch it quickly. Use a barbless circle hook, not a "J" hook. Pull a hook straight out of a fish's lip. Remove a hook that a fish has swallowed. Use a pair of long-nosed pliers or scissors to reach into the fish's mouth. Consider using a disgorger. Decide what to do with the fish. Know the law. Catch and release. Handle the fish as little as possible. Pacify the fish to make the hook easier to remove. Slip the fish into the water; do not throw it. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Action-to-Help-Stop-Human-Rights-Violations | How to Take Action to Help Stop Human Rights Violations | If you see law enforcement or other government actors violating human rights, you can take action to help. Certain federal agencies, like the Department of Justice, help enforce human rights law, so try contacting them to see if they can help. You can also draft a petition and get as many signatures as possible to show the federal government that there's a public outcry over the issue. Another way to act against human rights violations is to call or write your senator or representative and see if they'd be willing to advance your interest in congress. Engaging in activism is another way to draw attention to your cause, so try starting a social media campaign or organizing a protest. | Contact the appropriate federal agency. Certain federal agencies such as the Department of Justice help enforce human rights law and prosecute human rights violations. For example, USAID provides human rights assistance around the world, as well as humanitarian aid and development assistance in foreign countries. This assistance may be tied to respect for certain basic human rights. The DOJ is interested in human rights violators who have entered the U.S., or U.S. citizens who have violated human rights abroad. If you know of such a person you can provide identifying information to the DOJ. You can remain anonymous if you want. Be prepared to let the agency know the suspect's name and a basic physical description, what they did that constituted a human rights violation, and how you came to know about it. You also may provide information about non-U.S. citizens living in the U.S. to Immigrations and Customs Enforcement at 1-866-347-2423. Draft a petition. Getting signatures on a petition can encourage the federal government to take notice of a particular human rights violation. Before you start your petition drive, research the requirements for a legal petition so you can make sure you're following the rules and that all signatures on your petition will count as legitimate and actually make a difference. While there are plenty of websites where you can build a petition for free, many of these sites do not check identification of anyone signing. If age and residency cannot be verified, the petition cannot be considered as more than suggestive to any governmental entity. Call or write your senator or representative. Your federal government representative may be willing to advance your interest in congress. If the violation is occurring in a different country, you should keep in mind that interventions to stop human rights violations are seldom unilateral. However, you may be able to spur the federal government to work with other countries or work collectively through an organization such as the UN to put an end to the practice. Writing an official can help explain the importance of the issue and persuade her to put her support behind any efforts to stop the human rights violation. If there currently aren't any government actions to fight this particular human rights violation, you may be able to get the issue on the table. Keep your letter straight and to the point, and stick to the facts. Explain what the issue is, why it is important, and who it affects. Choose the organization best suited to respond. While some organizations such as the UN have broader missions, there also are smaller organizations that focus on specific human rights issues such as human trafficking. For example, the Carter Center's Human Rights Program has been focused on the role of religion in advancing women's human rights. If you've witnessed a human rights violation that you believe falls within that focus, you might consider contacting the Carter Center or one of the activists working in its human rights program. Organizations that monitor human rights include nongovernmental organizations such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch. These organizations monitor, analyze, and research human rights in various areas and compile reports for individual governments and intergovernmental bodies to use. While nongovernmental organizations cannot enforce laws or punish those who violate laws, they can put pressure on governments to go after those who violate human rights or enact sanctions against countries with records of human rights abuses. Intergovernmental and governmental organizations can enforce human rights laws and international treaties, but their abilities and enforcement mechanisms may be limited. Many of these bodies such as the Human Rights Council engage in many of the same activities that the nongovernmental organizations. Human rights commissions such as the Commission for Human Rights of the Council of Europe are a third type of international human rights organization. These organizations typically are independent bodies affiliated with another international governing body that report to that body. Read international human rights law. Particularly if you intend to contact an international organization such as the UN, you must be able to point to the particular part of international law that is being violated. Basic human rights that most all cultures agree upon are articulated in documents such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights, and the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. The UN website for the Office of the High Commissioner of Human Rights also has information on specific human rights treaties and reports on the performance of signatory countries under those treaties. Draft your report. When you write your report to the organization you've chosen, be sure to include all relevant information and as many details as possible. At a minimum, your report should state all relevant facts in chronological order. Include dates, times, and places of all incidents, along with as many names as you can, both of victims and perpetrators. Include all the contact information you know along with your own. Basically, include anything and everything in your report that might help the organization investigate the report. Even if you think a detail is irrelevant, it could be what leads the investigator to find victims or perpetrators of human rights abuses and bring them to justice. When you observe a possible human rights violation, write down as many details as possible while it's happening, including taking pictures, to establish a record you can later pass on to the appropriate organization. Submit your report to the appropriate organization. Most international organizations have an address or toll-free telephone number you can use to submit tips or more extensive reports about human rights violations. Organizations such as Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International all have telephone numbers and email addresses where you can send reports of human rights violations. Cooperate with the organization in any follow-up activities. If a representative of the organization contacts you, be prepared to provide additional details, documentation, or the names and contact information of possible witnesses. Organize a protest. Talk to like-minded individuals about staging a protest at an embassy or government building to increase awareness of the human rights violation. You can use a public demonstration to increase public awareness of the issue and build support to stop the human rights violation. If you have enough people joining you, it also sends a message that you have a lot of support to stop the violations. Reach out to other groups who conduct public demonstrations on a regular basis and decide who will be in charge of which aspects of the protest. Once you've identified the location where you plan to stage your protest, find out what permits you will need to get, how long those permits will be effective, and what those permits will permit you to do. You have the right to protest in the United States, but governments do have the ability to restrict the time, place, and manner of your protests. For example, you may be able to protest outside the office building of a company you believe is violating the human rights of its overseas workers, but you may not be permitted to blast loud music or using bullhorns or megaphones while people in the offices are trying to work. Go to the media. Seek attention from news networks and newspapers to help inform the public about the human rights violation. If you are in another country when you witness a human rights violation, keep in mind that your telephone or email communications may be monitored. If you do talk to a journalist, be careful not to reveal names or contact information of any local sources over these channels. You don't want to get your witnesses in trouble. You also could consider writing a letter to the editor to major or high profile newspapers or news magazines. Include information on how readers can help join the fight to stop the human rights violations you describe. If your letter is published, you can help raise awareness about the issue among the general public. Start a social media campaign. Creating viral videos or status updates on social media networks can create a groundswell of support to stop the human rights violations. Although there has been much criticism of so-called "Hashtag Activism," social media campaigns can raise awareness for your issue in a way that forces mass media and the government to sit up and take notice. Especially if you are someone with few connections and little power to stop human rights violations on your own, starting a social media campaign can be a relatively simple and inexpensive way to get government or international officials to take action to stop the abuses you've observed. Volunteer for a human rights organization. If there is already a human rights organization working on stopping the violation, consider volunteering your time to assist its efforts. For example, Amnesty International has resources online that will allow you to sign petitions, participate in online activism, or volunteer to learn skills and work to protect human rights around the world. | Contact the appropriate federal agency. Draft a petition. Call or write your senator or representative. Choose the organization best suited to respond. Read international human rights law. Draft your report. Submit your report to the appropriate organization. Cooperate with the organization in any follow-up activities. Organize a protest. Go to the media. Start a social media campaign. Volunteer for a human rights organization. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Entertain-Kids-When-You-Are-Babysitting | How to Entertain Kids When You Are Babysitting | The best way to entertain kids when you're babysitting depends on how old the kids are. If you're babysitting toddlers, play easy baby games like peek-a-boo and Simon Says. If you're babysitting preschoolers, do mess-free crafts and play letter and number games. If you're babysitting kids in elementary school, play board games, do some painting, or play catch outside. If you're babysitting older kids in middle school, cook with them, play chess, or take them to a nearby park. | Play easy baby games if they seem calm. Stick with games that don't have very many rules. Toddlers won't be able to follow along with complicated games, and they can get frustrated quickly. If you're babysitting a 1-year-old toddler , play games like peek-a-boo or hide-and-seek with their favorite stuffed animal. If the toddler is closer to 2 years old, try making patterns using blocks or rolling a ball back and forth across the floor. If you're babysitting an older toddler, try games like Simon Says and Hot and Cold. Have them pick out a toy to play with if they're energetic. Go in their room or wherever their toys are kept and ask them to choose something to play with. If you're babysitting a younger toddler, you may need to choose a toy for them. Once they've got a toy, get on the floor and play with the toy with them. Read to them when it’s naptime. It will be easier to get them to sleep if you hang around and read them a quick story. Find a children's book they have and hold it so they can see the pictures. Point out the different characters in the pictures as you're reading along. Eventually, the toddler you're babysitting should drift to sleep. Find out from their parents if they have any special naptime rituals you should follow. Supervise them at all times. No matter what activity you're doing, you should constantly monitor the toddler you're babysitting. Toddlers can easily get into something they're not supposed to or accidentally bump into something and hurt themselves. If you're grabbing something from another room or setting up an activity, make sure they're in your line of sight. Play letters and numbers games if they're in the mood to learn. Preschoolers are just starting to learn to recognize letters and numbers, so look for games that focus on those things. Make sure the games are easy to understand so the preschooler you're babysitting can follow along. Play with them on a big ABC mat. Play with letter tiles. Hold up a tile and have them guess what letter it is. If they get it right, give them the tile. Play memory with a deck of cards. Spread all the cards out face down and have them flip the cards 2 at a time. The goal is for them to flip over 2 cards that are the same number. Play with playdough if they want to make something. If there's no playdough in the house, ask the preschooler to help you make some from scratch. Put the playdough on a tray or plate so the preschooler you're babysitting doesn't make a mess. Help them build things with it and show them how to roll the playdough with their hands. Don't forget to clean up when you're finished. Make sure the preschooler you're babysitting doesn't try to eat the playdough! Do easy, mess-free crafts if they're in a creative mood. Keep in mind that preschoolers may get things on their skin and in their mouth, so don't use any supplies that are toxic or messy. Stick with crafts that are simple and easy to clean up. Supervise them at all times so they don't make a big mess. Have the preschooler you're babysitting play with stickers. Give them a sheet of paper and help them peel off the stickers and stick them to the paper. Give them paper and crayons to draw with. Crayons aren't as messy as markers or paint, so you won't have to worry about a big clean up afterward. Have them draw shapes and then you cut them out. Then, let them position the shapes on a sheet of paper. You can tape or glue the shapes to the paper for them. Get permission to take them outside and do simple, low-key activities. Avoid strenuous or overly active games that could lead to the preschooler you're babysitting getting hurt. If you're going to bring them outside, stick with activities where you're sitting or walking, as opposed to running or throwing things. Go outside and draw with sidewalk chalk. Prepare some bubbles and let the preschooler you're babysitting play with them outside. Walk them around the backyard and teach them about the different plants and animals you encounter. Watch an educational TV show together if they seem tired. If you can't find a show on TV, search online and watch an episode of something on the computer. This is a great activity for later in the evening when the preschooler you're babysitting may be getting tired. Limit their screen time to 1 hour so you don't spend the whole time you're babysitting them watching TV. Make sure you get permission from their parents before you watch something with them. Ask the preschooler or their parents what their favorite TV shows are. Play board games if they want something simple to do. When you're looking for a board game to play, look on the box to see the recommended age range. Play easier, learning-focused board games with a younger gradeschooler. Play more challenging board games with an older gradeschooler. Try board games like Candy Land , Chutes and Ladders , and Guess Who if you're playing with a younger gradeschooler. If you're babysitting an older gradeschooler, you could play board games like Monopoly , cards, and Yahtzee. Paint or draw with markers if they're feeling creative. Lay newspaper down on the table and set up a painting and drawing station. Use washable, nontoxic kids paint and markers in case they get any on their clothes or skin. When they're finished, have them write their name on their artwork and give it to their parents when they get home. Get permission to do active outdoor games and activities. Grade schoolers have a lot of energy, and playing outside can be a great way for them to get some exercise and have fun. Make sure they're not running around near the street and that you keep an eye on them at all times. Play catch. Get a softball or wiffle ball and you can toss it back and forth. If they have a wiffle bat lying around, you can make bases and start a baseball game. Run around outside and play tag. You can try different tag variations like freeze tag. Have a scavenger hunt. Hide a bunch of items in the backyard and have them try to find them all as quickly as possible. Watch an age-appropriate movie if they want to relax. Ask the grade-schooler you're babysitting what movie they want to watch and watch it with them. You can even make popcorn so it's like you're at a movie theater. Before you watch the movie, check the rating to make sure it's appropriate for someone their age. Stick with movies that are PG, and avoid movies that are rated PG-13 or higher. Do complex arts and crafts if they want to make something. Come up with a challenging craft idea before you arrive to babysit and bring the necessary supplies with you. You can also look up a list of craft ideas on your computer or phone and ask the older kid you're babysitting which one they want to work on. Avoid projects that are too easy or older kids might find them boring. Try making flip books. Give them a notepad or stack of sticky notes and have them draw a slightly different image on the bottom right corner of each page. Then, when they flip through the book, their drawings will look like a short animation. Make jewelry. Bring a jewelry-making kit with you with thread, yarn, beads, and other things they can use to make bracelets or necklaces. Build molecules using cotton swabs, cotton balls, and glue. Play challenging strategy games if they want to do a low-key activity. Older kids prefer games that involve strategizing and thinking. Avoid easy games that older kids might find boring. You can even teach older kids a brand new game, or bring a game that none of you have played before. Teach them how to play chess. Play a strategy card game like Hearts or Rummy. Play strategy board games like Risk and Mastermind. Make food together if they're hungry. If you're in charge of dinner, ask the older kid you're babysitting if they want to help you make something instead of ordering out. You can make pizza or have breakfast for dinner. You can even have a mini cooking competition to see whose dish turns out better. Take them to a nearby park if you have permission. Try to find a park that has a playground. Pack a bag with water, snacks, and a blanket so you can sit on the grass. Bring some board games, cards, and a frisbee or ball to play catch with. Give them privacy if they need it. Older kids may not want to be constantly entertained by a babysitter. If they want to spend time in their room or do something on their own, let them. Watch TV, read, or find something else to do while they're busy. Just make sure they're not violating any rules their parents established. For example, if their parents told you they aren't allowed to use the family computer, check to make sure they're not using it. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries. Older kids may test your limits and push back when you try to enforce the rules. If the kid you're babysitting is doing something they're not supposed to, it's OK to tell them they need to stop. Don't yell or get angry, but do be serious and persistent if they try to ignore you. For example, if the kid you're babysitting is playing video games even though their parents said video games are off limits, you could say something like “Hey, your parents said you're not supposed to be playing video games. Turn them off and let's find something else to do. Want to order food?” | Play easy baby games if they seem calm. Have them pick out a toy to play with if they're energetic. Read to them when it’s naptime. Supervise them at all times. Play letters and numbers games if they're in the mood to learn. Play with playdough if they want to make something. Do easy, mess-free crafts if they're in a creative mood. Get permission to take them outside and do simple, low-key activities. Watch an educational TV show together if they seem tired. Play board games if they want something simple to do. Paint or draw with markers if they're feeling creative. Get permission to do active outdoor games and activities. Watch an age-appropriate movie if they want to relax. Do complex arts and crafts if they want to make something. Play challenging strategy games if they want to do a low-key activity. Make food together if they're hungry. Take them to a nearby park if you have permission. Give them privacy if they need it. Don’t be afraid to set boundaries. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Sign-%22I-Love-You%22-in-American-Sign-Language | How to Sign "I Love You" in American Sign Language | To make “I love you” in sign language, start by pointing to yourself. Next, make a gentle fist with both hands and cross them over your heart as if you're hugging someone. Then, point to the person you are talking about. An alternative way to sign “I love you” is to make a gentle fist, smile, and lift up your pinky finger, index finger, and thumb. | Point to yourself. Make a gentle fist with both hands, and cross them over your heart as if you're hugging somebody close. Point to your loved one. Put the steps together all at once, and say, “I love you! ” Make a fist. Don't make it too tight, and smile when you do it—you're about to tell somebody something wonderful. Lift up your pinky finger. This creates the sign language symbol for the personal pronoun "I.” Lift up your index finger. This would resemble horns with the two fingers. Unless you're ready to rock, move quickly to the next step! Lift up your thumb. The index finger and thumb create the letter "L," and the pinky finger in concert with the thumb creates the "Y.” Put the steps together all at once, and say, “I love you! ” | Point to yourself. Make a gentle fist with both hands, and cross them over your heart as if you're hugging somebody close. Point to your loved one. Put the steps together all at once, and say, “I love you! Make a fist. Lift up your pinky finger. Lift up your index finger. Lift up your thumb. Put the steps together all at once, and say, “I love you! |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cope-With-Canine-Epilepsy | How to Cope With Canine Epilepsy | To help your dog cope with epilepsy, take it to a vet if you haven't already, so they can prescribe medication to reduce its symptoms. In general, keep your dog away from water, since it won't be able to swim if it has a seizure. You should also learn to recognize your dog's early signs of a seizure, such as seeming nervous, disorientated, restless, or whining, so you know when they're coming. If you think your dog is having a seizure, move any furniture or other objects away that it could hurt itself on. Unfortunately, you can't stop a seizure once it starts, so just try to keep your distance to avoid being hit or scratched. Once your dog's seizure has passed, stroke it and reassure it in a calm, low voice to help it calm down. | Recognize when your dog is approaching a seizure. The period of time immediately before a canine seizure is known as the “aura.” Dogs often seem apprehensive, disoriented, or restless during the aura phase, and may exhibit nervous behaviors including whining. If your dog is showing signs of being in the aura phase, but still walking around, attempt to lead the dog to an open area where they will not be at risk of hurting themselves when the seizure begins. After the seizure has concluded, your dog will enter the appropriately named “post-seizure” phase. Although convulsions will have stopped at this point, the dog will be physically exhausted and may feel confused as well. Dogs can take hours to recover, so give your pet space while it reorients itself. Stay calm when your dog experiences a seizure. Don't panic or try to stop your dog from moving. You should leave the dog alone during this time, as the dog cannot control its movements and may lash out and strike you. If there are pieces of furniture, chairs, etc. near your dog, move these so that the dog does not injure itself on them. Be especially cautious around your dog's mouth while it's experiencing a seizure. The dog will not be in control of its muscle function, and could easily bite you if you put your hands on its head or near its mouth. Keep your dog out of the water. Although many dogs love to swim and splash around in lakes, rivers, or even a backyard pool, you should keep your epileptic dog out of deep water. If the dog were to have a seizure while in the water, it would be unable to swim to safety and would likely drown. If you live in an area where your dog could easily run to a large body of water, consider building a fence around a portion of your backyard to prevent your dog from reaching the water. Alternately, purchase a canine life vest for your dog, and put it on the dog each time it's in or near water. Monitor your dog’s weight. Most dogs who are on long-term antiepileptic medications gain weight as a side effect. While this may not present itself as an immediate problem, you will need to closely watch your dog's weight; excessive or rapid weight gain can be harmful to your dog's health. If you notice that your dog is gaining weight rapidly or is approaching an unhealthy or obese weight, talk to your veterinarian about putting the dog on a diet play. You can use a typical bathroom scale to weigh your dog in your own home. Since dogs are energetic animals and it's difficult to have a dog stand still on the scale, weigh your dog by holding the dog and standing on the scale, and then subtracting your own weight from the total. If you don't have a bathroom scale, or if you have a large dog that you can't pick up, your veterinarian's office will have an animal scale that you can weigh your dog on. Calm your dog after it experiences a seizure. Reassurance is important after a seizure; your dog is likely to be scared, confused, and disoriented, so soothe the pet by stroking it and speaking to it with a calm voice and a low tone. Keep your dog relatively static until it has regained its bearings and is acting normally. If the dog begins walking or running too soon after a seizure, it could fall and injure itself, run into the walls, or fall down a flight of stairs. Dogs will be unable to control their bowels or bladder during a seizure, so you may want to have towels or plastic bags on hand to clean up urine or feces. If your dog overheated during the seizure, rub it down with a damp towel or bring a small fan to blow air gently over the dog. Practice personal stress reduction. Living with and caring for an epileptic dog can be intensely draining and stressful for the owner. To reduce this stress and to help yourself mentally and psychologically cope with caring for your dog, first try taking a series of five deep breaths. Hold each breath for a few seconds and then fully exhale—the repetition of this breathing practice will decrease stress and help you calm down. It's also important to be physically active to help reduce stress. Taking a long walk or practicing yoga—even for as little as 15–20 minutes—can help your mind decompress, and reduce stress and worry. Communicate your stress to a personal network. Having a healthy network of close family and friends that you can talk with will allow you to cope with the stress that results from your dog's epilepsy. Don't hesitate to explain your canine-related worries and anxieties, and talk through whatever aspects of your dog's condition cause you the most concern. Talking through problems will help you feel better, and friends may present solutions to problems that have concerned you. Additionally, use time spent with these family members and friends to get some time away from your epileptic dog; this will allow you to focus on other aspects of your life. Do fun activities with friends: see a comedy show, go to a movie, or take a hike. Take your dog to a veterinarian or veterinary hospital. If your dog has only recently begun experiencing seizures, you'll need to bring it to a veterinary clinic or veterinary hospital as soon as possible. While seizures are not life threatening and generally only last from one to three minutes, epilepsy is a serious condition and should be dealt with promptly. The longer that epilepsy goes untreated, the higher the likelihood that the disease will cause brain damage to the dog. If you need to transport your dog while it is still experiencing an epileptic seizure, put the dog in a crate or kennel. Do not attempt to pick up or lift your dog while it's seizing, as it could unintentionally injure both itself and you. Help your vet diagnose the type of epilepsy your dog experiences. Canine epilepsy can take a variety of forms and is diagnosed by observing the type of seizure that the dog experiences and noting the age at which seizures begin. Often, epilepsy will be caused by physical and medical issues, including head injuries, kidney or liver failure, strokes, brain tumors, congenital defects, or extremes in body temperature. The resultant epilepsy is known as “secondary epilepsy.” If your dog's epilepsy has no discernible cause, it will be diagnosed with idiopathic epilepsy. Idiopathic epilepsy is also known as “primary,” “genetic,” “inherited,” or “true” epilepsy. As a rule, younger dogs are more at risk for primary and idiopathic epilepsy, while dogs who experience epilepsy when they're 4 years old (or older) are more likely to be diagnosed with secondary epilepsy. Work with your veterinarian on an antiepileptic prescription. Epilepsy is a genetic disorder and cannot be prevented, so medication is the primary method of fighting the disease. Veterinarians will commonly prescribe Phenobarbital to decrease seizures, and often pair this with Potassium bromide to control some of Phenobarbital's less pleasant side effects, including liver damage. Your vet may also prescribe Primidone, which is similar to Phenobarbital in its uses and side effects. It can take a while to find the right antiepileptic drug (or combination of drugs) for your epileptic dog. Once your dog is on a medication, record a video of your dog having a seizure and keep a written record of all of its seizures; note if they increase or decrease with each new medication and report back to your vet. This process will help the vet prescribe an effective medication for your dog's epilepsy. Administer daily medication to your dog. The medications that your veterinarian will prescribe for your epileptic dog need to be given daily, and comprise an important part of both the treatment for epilepsy and your practice of coping with the disease. Vets will commonly prescribe two or even three medicines; you should carefully follow the directions for daily drug administration and administer in the dosage that your vet has prescribed. Take your dog to follow-up appointments. Your dog will need to visit the vet's office for follow-up bloodwork after each change in medication or dosage, or if the dog experiences a seizure while on medication. In addition to this, it's a good idea to follow up with testing every 3-6 months to catch any adverse effects on the body organs, particularly the liver, before they become big problems. When a dog is first put on medication for epilepsy, frequent blood testing is necessary in order to assess medication levels. This way, the vet can make sure that there is enough of the medication in the dog's body to control seizures, yet not too much to be toxic to the dog. | Recognize when your dog is approaching a seizure. Stay calm when your dog experiences a seizure. Keep your dog out of the water. Monitor your dog’s weight. Calm your dog after it experiences a seizure. Practice personal stress reduction. Communicate your stress to a personal network. Take your dog to a veterinarian or veterinary hospital. Help your vet diagnose the type of epilepsy your dog experiences. Work with your veterinarian on an antiepileptic prescription. Administer daily medication to your dog. Take your dog to follow-up appointments. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Felt | How to Clean Felt | To clean felt, start by dabbing a small amount of gentle dish soap, such as Ivory or Dawn, directly onto the stain and blotting it with a soft, damp cloth. Alternatively, try using diluted white vinegar for stains that are particularly stubborn. Then, rinse the cloth with cool water to remove any soap or vinegar and use it to blot the stained felt again. Repeat this process until all the soap or vinegar has been rinsed from the felt. Afterwards, firmly press a clean, dry towel onto the area to soak up any excess moisture before allowing the felt to dry in a cool place. | Allow spillage to dry before cleaning. Whether the issue is food crumbs, dirt, mud or any other non-staining spillage, it must be allowed to dry before proceeding. If you attempt to clean the item before the spillage has dried, the substance will likely get ground into the fibers of the felt, making clean up far more difficult. Doing this could also result in ruining your felt item completely. If you suspect that the spillage will cause a stain, immediately skip to the spot cleaning and hand washing methods. Stains must be addressed promptly for successful removal from felt. Remove loose debris. Once the spillage is dry, shake off or brush away all loose debris from your felt item. Take care not to accidentally mash any debris into the fiber of the felt. You can simply use your hand to brush debris away, especially if the issue is very minor. Use a soft bristled brush to gently brush away any stubborn debris. Also try flicking the felt item from the back (if possible) to get off stubborn debris. Inspect the item closely. Everything, especially food particles, needs to be removed from the item. Allowing food particles to remain in the fibers of felt can lead to deep set staining, as well as pest or sanitation issues. If additional debris is found upon closer examination, gently use the soft bristled brush again. Wipe the surface gently with a baby wipe. This will clean any remaining debris from your item. Be very careful when wiping and avoid any aggressive scrubbing, since this can damage the surface of your felt. The wipe won't cause a lot of wetness to begin with, but still allow the moisture to air-dry before using or wearing your felt item. Do not air-dry in direct sunlight because this can damage the fabric. Use masking tape to remove any stubborn lint or hair. Persistent lint and hair can be eliminated by patting the sticky side of masking tape over the surface of the felt, then quickly pulling it off. You will see the lint and hair transferred from the felt onto the tape. Repeat if necessary. Dab a tiny amount of very gentle soap (Ivory, Dawn) directly on the stain. Be sure you dab the soap on without rubbing at the fabric. Spot cleaning small and relatively minor stains this way is preferable to immersing your felt item in water, since the dyed color in felt can run easily. Try to get started with the spot cleaning process as soon as possible after the stain occurs. Dampen a soft, clean cloth with cool water and dab at the stain until clean. Take care not to rub the fabric or agitate it in any way. If the stain is being stubborn, add another dab of soap on the remaining stain and dab again until it's gone. For extra stubborn stains, you can use diluted white vinegar to clean the felt. Use one part vinegar and two parts water to get the proper dilution for this. Concentrated vinegar can bleach the colors out of your felt. Repeat the same process of dabbing at the stain with your vinegar/water solution. The vinegar not only removes stains but can also destroy any bad odors. Rinse the rag with cool water to remove all of the soap. Once free of soap, re-soak it with cool water. Try to use approximately the same water temperature throughout the entire process. Dab at the spot again using the wet rag. This will force clean water through the stained area, rinsing any remaining soap from the felt. You may find it easier to use two wet rags to rinse the soap from the felt. Using a flat surface, put one rag on each side of the felt and press down over the cleaned area, forcing clean water through. Rinse out the rag and repeat the process, if necessary. Use a clean, dry towel to soak up any excess moisture. Simply press down on the spot a few times until the towel has soaked up the excess water. Allow the item to air-dry in a cool place. Do not air-dry felt in direct sunlight, because this is damaging to the fabric. Brush away any loose debris while the felt is still dry. If the spillage isn't completely liquid, brush away what you can of any loose debris with a soft bristled brush before moving on. Take care not to brush with too much pressure, or the debris will get embedded in the fiber of the felt. Use a clean towel to blot up any liquid spillage. Gently dab at the stain, taking care not to rub any of the liquid around or into the surface of the felt. Blot until there is no visible liquid left, just the stain. Fill your sink or a bucket with cold or cool water. Do not use warm or hot water because this will cause dyed color to run and bleed. Make sure there is enough water in the basin to submerge your item. Add a small amount of gentle soap to the water. Use as little soap as possible and make sure you are using something very gentle, such as Ivory or Dawn. Baby shampoo or wool wash (soap created specifically to clean wool felt) will also work well. If you are working with a dirty piece of felt that has a bad odor, cut up a couple of lemons and squeeze their juice into the water. Lemon will help to disinfect and remove odors from the fabric. Submerge the felt and gently wash the stained area. Do not use aggressive scrubbing motions, since these will damage your felt. Repeatedly squeezing and pushing on the felt under the soapy water will wash the stain away. Once clean, drain the soapy water from the sink. Rinse the soap from the felt using cool water from the tap. Make sure to rinse it carefully until all of the soap is completely removed from the felt. Try to do the rinsing as quickly as possible. The less time you have to submit your felt to water, the better. Once rinsed, shut off the tap and gently squeeze the item one time to remove excess water. Place the wet felt on a clean, dry towel. Use another dry towel to press down on the felt, so that both towels are soaking up moisture from the item. Repeat until the felt is damp rather than wet. Do not rub the felt. At this stage it is particularly vulnerable, and rubbing it can damage the fabric and cause it to pill. You made need to use additional dry towels to get the job done, depending on how large the felt item is. Lay the felt out flat and allow to air-dry in a cool place. Hanging the item from a drying rack is also acceptable. Make sure the fabric is completely dry before using or wearing your felt item. Do not let the felt air-dry in direct sunlight, as this can be damaging to the fabric. If all else fails, take your fabric to a dry cleaner to be cleaned by a professional. | Allow spillage to dry before cleaning. Remove loose debris. Inspect the item closely. Wipe the surface gently with a baby wipe. Use masking tape to remove any stubborn lint or hair. Dab a tiny amount of very gentle soap (Ivory, Dawn) directly on the stain. Dampen a soft, clean cloth with cool water and dab at the stain until clean. Rinse the rag with cool water to remove all of the soap. Dab at the spot again using the wet rag. Use a clean, dry towel to soak up any excess moisture. Brush away any loose debris while the felt is still dry. Use a clean towel to blot up any liquid spillage. Fill your sink or a bucket with cold or cool water. Add a small amount of gentle soap to the water. Submerge the felt and gently wash the stained area. Rinse the soap from the felt using cool water from the tap. Place the wet felt on a clean, dry towel. Lay the felt out flat and allow to air-dry in a cool place. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Whey-Protein | How to Use Whey Protein | Drinking a whey protein shake after your workout will give you more energy and to help prevent muscle breakdown. For an extra protein boost, try blending whey protein with milk, ice cubes, and fruit to create a smoothie. If you are trying to lose weight, drink a whey protein shake first thing in the morning to help you feel more full throughout the day. | Obtain a protein requirement chart from an online source or nutrition store. Too much protein in your daily diet can lead to adverse side-effects, and is particularly hard on your kidneys, so a protein chart is an important tool when adding whey protein to your diet. Calculate how much protein you need, based on your weight. It is recommended that both male and female adults (19–50) consume 8 grams (0.28 oz) of protein for every 20 pounds of body weight (0.8 g of protein per kg) per day. For example, a person weighing 155 pounds (70 kg) should get 56 g of protein per day. In general, speed and strength training athletes should get 1.2–1.7 g of protein per kg of body weight, while an endurance athlete may need more like 1.2–1.4 g of protein per kg of body weight. (To find your weight in kg, divide your weight in pounds by 2.2). So an athlete weighing 175 lbs. (79 kg) would consume 94.8 g of protein daily to meet the minimum of 1.2 g/kg. Determine the amount of protein you eat. With the help of a nutritional calculator, calculate how much protein you are getting with each meal and, if necessary, how much protein you consume each week. This will help you determine how much protein you need to supplement your diet with. There are several online resources for determining the protein content of the foods you eat each day or week. A useful example can be found here. Find the amount of protein you need to get from supplements. If the amount of protein you should have according to your protein requirement chart is more than you are getting from diet alone, you can make up the difference with whey protein. After figuring out your protein intake with a nutritional calculator, subtract the amount of protein you are getting in your diet from the required amount found on your protein requirement chart. The amount of protein left over is what you can get in supplement form from whey protein. Additionally, if you are a male who exercises regularly, you may benefit from whey protein supplementation to help you recover from exercise more quickly. Use a blender. Combining the ingredients in a blender is the most convenient way to make a shake. Follow the instructions on the whey protein container to measure out the proper amount of whey protein powder and blend with the recommended portion of liquid and any other ingredients until smooth. If you do not have a blender, you can use an electric mixer, blender bottle, or use a whisk or fork to mix the ingredients in a glass or bowl. Choose your flavor of whey protein. You can buy whey protein in a variety of flavors, which will affect the taste of your smoothie. Flavors include vanilla, strawberry, blueberry, banana, chocolate, and more. Mix in fruits or other ingredients. Whey protein shakes can be made with fruits and other ingredients to change the flavor and nutritional content. Many recipes can be found in books and online for various preparations of whey protein shakes. To make it easier to blend or mix fruits into whey protein shakes, add liquids first. Depending on your preference, add between one to two cups of one or more of the following: Fruit juice Banana Peaches Pears Mango Watery fruits, including oranges, pineapple and watermelon Milk, soy milk, almond milk, coconut milk or other low-fat milks Add ice cubes. Blended ice cubes will thicken and cool your whey protein shake, giving it the consistency of a smoothie or shake. Alternatively, you can freeze bananas, raspberries and other fruits (or buy them frozen) and add them to the drink. You can even make ice cubes out of milk and use these instead. Add flavor-enhancing ingredients. Whey protein shakes may benefit from the addition of ingredients that improve the flavor. Add these ingredients to your liking and you will improve your shake's flavor. Some ingredients to consider adding include: Honey Vanilla, nutmeg, cinnamon Yogurt Dried fruit, including raisins, apricots and dates Chocolate, vanilla, strawberry or other milkshake powders Eat a whey protein breakfast. Add 1 scoop of whey protein powder to your breakfast cereal, preferably oatmeal. Mix thoroughly with a spoon and eat immediately. Adding whey protein to food in this way lets you increase protein intake without having to adjust your diet too much. You can add 1 tbsp. (14.1 g) of peanut butter to this mixture for a little extra protein. Eat protein before your workout. Drink a whey protein shake 30 minutes before exercising. As you work out, your muscle fibers will be broken down, and your stored carbohydrates (glycogen) will become depleted. A pre-workout shake will help prevent muscle breakdown and provide more energy. Eat protein after your workout. You need to feed your muscles as soon as you are done exercising to help your body recover. There is evidence that consuming whey protein immediately after a workout increases protein synthesis and, as a result, strengthens muscles. Mix whey protein into your last meal of the day. Sprinkle some whey protein powder on food that is part of your last meal of the day. This keeps amino acids in your body at an elevated level as you sleep, which can also assist with building muscle. You can also drink whey protein before you go to bed to help prevent the protein breakdown that naturally occurs while you sleep, increasing overnight muscle protein synthesis. Determine how much whey protein to incorporate into your diet. There are many diet plans available for those who want to use whey protein for this purpose, but in general it is recommended that you only supplement your diet with whey protein rather than replace meals with whey protein shakes. The benefit of supplementing your diet with whey protein is generally that it will help you feel more full, which may cause you to eat less, thereby encouraging weight loss. Include whey protein in a low-calorie diet. Whey protein will work best as part of a healthy, balanced diet. Be aware that high-protein, low-carb diets can have negative side-effects on your health. Always aim for a healthy balance. Supplement your diet with whey protein shakes. When encouraging weight loss, you will want to include fiber and avoid too much sugar. You can achieve the inclusion of fiber with low sugar by incorporating some fruits and vegetables into your shakes. The following suggestions should help: Add blueberries or raspberries. Both fruits are high in fiber and low in sugar. Alternatively, add spinach or cucumber. Both vegetables are high in fiber, and don't taste as strong as some other vegetables, so you can mix them into your shake without making it taste strange. Avoid using honey, maple syrup, or sugar. These contain high amounts of sugar and will be detrimental to a diet plan. The fruit you add to a smoothie will sweeten it naturally. Drink a whey protein shake or smoothie before a meal. A protein shake can satisfy your hunger and give you energy, reducing your cravings for other foods. One study had people drinking protein shakes before a trip to a buffet, and the people who had whey protein shakes consumed less from the buffet than others. While it is not recommended, replacing your highest-calorie meal with a shake or smoothie should lead to the quickest weight-loss results. Replacing smaller meals with a whey protein drink will also encourage weight-loss, but at a slower pace. Drinking a shake can also reduce post-meal blood glucose and improve insulin levels. | Obtain a protein requirement chart from an online source or nutrition store. Calculate how much protein you need, based on your weight. Determine the amount of protein you eat. Find the amount of protein you need to get from supplements. Use a blender. Choose your flavor of whey protein. Mix in fruits or other ingredients. Add ice cubes. Add flavor-enhancing ingredients. Eat a whey protein breakfast. Eat protein before your workout. Eat protein after your workout. Mix whey protein into your last meal of the day. Determine how much whey protein to incorporate into your diet. Supplement your diet with whey protein shakes. Drink a whey protein shake or smoothie before a meal. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Impress-Your-Teachers-in-Middle-or-High-School | How to Impress Your Teachers in Middle or High School | To impress your middle or high school teachers, start by showing up to class on time with a smile on your face, since this will show you are friendly, mature, and respectful. Next, try taking good notes in class to show your teachers you're paying attention and working hard. Additionally, if you're struggling to keep up with all your assignments, try making lists and writing things down in a planner so you won't disappoint your teacher by turning in late work or forgetting assignments altogether. | Be on time to impress your teachers. Being late shows teachers you don't respect them, and disrespecting teachers will not impress them. Punctuality is a very important quality to develop and a sign of maturity that will be sure to impress your teachers. Get to know your teachers. Teachers are people too. Taking the time to learn about your teachers and letting them get to know you is a great way to get in their good graces. This will impress your teachers by letting them know you care and that you pay attention to details. Try striking up a conversation by asking about personal details you already know like, “How are your cats doing, Mr. Smith?” or “How is Mr. Evans doing, Mrs. Evans?” Look at the personal effects your teachers have on their desks. If they have a lot of pictures of mountains, ask them if they like to go hiking. Or tell them about a personal connection you might have with some mountains (maybe your family went there on vacation one summer?). Try making connections between yourself and the details you see about your teachers' lives. You can also give them a little card or gift during the holidays. A gesture of appreciation can mean a lot to your teachers. Just don't make it too extravagant of a gift or your teacher will feel uncomfortable accepting it. A simple card, a box of candy, or a $10 giftcard would be an acceptable gift. Respect yourself and others. Teachers are not impressed by bullies or students who get in trouble. Try to show your teachers that you respect them and your fellow classmates by treating others with kindness and generosity. Show your teachers that you respect yourself by not allowing others to treat you poorly. Stand up for yourself if someone bullies you and report bad behavior to the principal if you see something. Present your work neatly. This means neat and good handwriting when turning in assignments and keeping your notes and belongings organized in class. Spend time on your homework so that you don't make careless mistakes. Do your work in pencil when possible so that you can easily erase any mistakes you might make. If you have to write in pen, try to make as few mistakes as possible. But be prepared to start over with a clean sheet of paper if there are too many mistakes. Take notes in class. Taking diligent notes in class will show your teachers that you are paying attention to what they are saying in class. This will make them think you are a hard worker. Plus, taking notes will help you in the long run too. When test time rolls around, you'll be prepared with lots of notes from class to study from. Don’t turn in assignments late. It can be easy to fall behind in high school and middle school because you suddenly have many more classes and assignments, but the responsibility is all your own too. Turning in assignments late, asking for extensions regularly, or forgetting assignments altogether will not impress your teachers. Being organized is a big part of turning in assignments on time. Try keeping track of your homework by writing your assignments in a planner and notating the due dates for each assignment. Being organized and never forgetting assignments will impress your teachers. Do extra credit. Many teachers offer optional extra credit assignments. Take advantage of these opportunities and complete the assignments. It will be a great way to help your grades and to show your teachers that you are willing to go that extra mile. Dress neatly to impress your teachers. Most teachers dislike messy uniforms. Wear clothes that fit nicely. Make sure your clothing is as wrinkle-free as possible and meets all of your school's requirements. If you don't wear a uniform in your school, then don't dress inappropriately. Wear clothing that meets your school's dress code requirements. Dress like you would if you were going to church. This means collared shirts with slacks or nice jeans for boys and dresses (knee-length) or nice pants and a cute top for girls. Nothing should be overly tight or revealing. Smile more frequently. People are naturally drawn to others who appear friendly and open. This means that you should remember to smile in class, especially when speaking with your teachers. It will make your teachers like you more and give them a good impression. You don't have to smile every second of the day. Just try to smile often. Use body language to your advantage. Your body language is a great tool for impressing your teacher. You can let your teacher know you are being attentive in class by sitting up straight and making eye contact when your teacher is speaking. Consistently show that you are engaged in the class and your teacher will be impressed over time. | Be on time to impress your teachers. Get to know your teachers. Respect yourself and others. Present your work neatly. Take notes in class. Don’t turn in assignments late. Do extra credit. Dress neatly to impress your teachers. Smile more frequently. Use body language to your advantage. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-Pug | How to Care for a Pug | To care for your pug, feed it age-appropriate, small-bite food once or twice a day, based on the serving size recommendations on the packaging. Make sure you stick to the guidelines and limit treats, since excess weight can cause health problems. Additionally, try to get your pug out for a couple of short walks every day, and engage it in brief but active playtimes throughout the day, as well. Then, brush your pug 1-2 times a week, and clean its ears and facial folds every week. You should also bathe it once a month, and trim its nails when they start to get long. | Give their facial folds a weekly clean. Your pug's facial folds can hold onto food, saliva, dirt, and other debris that may be smelly and irritating. Use a cotton swab dipped in warm water to clean them out. Run the swab along the folds around your dog's nose and eyes, being careful to not let the swab make contact with their eyes, nostrils, or mouth. Don't leave the folds damp, as this could cause further irritation. Dry them with a towel or a dry cotton swab. While this is recommended as a once-weekly routine, you can do it as often as necessary if you notice your pug starting to smell. Brush your pug 1 to 2 times a week. Pugs shed, there is no way to avoid it. You can help keep their coat healthy by brushing them once or twice a week with a slicker brush or a specialty shedding brush. Brushing your pug regularly will also help keep their hair off of everything you own. Clean their ears with a specialty solution once a week. Those cute little pug ears are just the right shape to trap dirt and debris. Because of this, they should be cleaned regularly with a cleaning solution meant especially for dog's ears. Squirt the ears with the solution, then wipe the inside down with a cotton ball. Do not push the cotton balls into the ear canal or use cotton swabs, as this could damage the dog's ear. In you notice deep wax blockages, talk to your vet. Bathe your pug once a month. Regardless of whether your pug is dirty or smelly, a once-monthly bath is recommended. Be sure the bath water is shallow enough for your pug to stand. Use a shampoo formulated for dogs, which is available from most local pet stores. Make sure to rinse your pug thoroughly after shampooing it. Its folds will hold onto soap, so check carefully to make sure your pug is completely rinsed. Be sure to cover its sensitive eyes while you rinse them, too. Trim their nails as necessary. Pugs don't wear down their nails the same way more active dogs do, so regular nail trims are important. You can take your pug to a groomer or your vet for a nail trim. If you decide to trim at home , make sure to use clippers meant for dog nails to avoid cracking and splitting. Always cut below the soft center of the nail, called the quick. Injury to the quick can be very painful for your pug. If you cannot see the quick because your pug's nails are dark or opaque, it is best to have a professional trim your their nails instead. Feed your pug size-appropriate portions. Pugs love to eat, so it's easy for them to become overweight. You need to monitor their diet closely to ensure proper portion control. Feed them consistently once or twice a day according to the manufacturer's serving size recommendations. Remember that food packaging indicates the maximum your pug should eat for a day. If you feed your pug twice a day, divide the maximum serving in half to get the proper meal size. Learn to feel for your pug's ribs. Ideally you should be able to feel the ribs with minimum pressure but not see them. If the ribs are difficult to feel, your pug may be overweight. Give your pug an age-appropriate diet. Choose a quality small-bite dry food appropriate for your pug's age. If your pug is a puppy, it should eat puppy food. If it is an adult, it should be given an adult diet. If it is a senior, then you should feed it senior food. There are also specialized diets for specific medical issues, such as low protein and phosphorus diets for dogs with kidney disease. Talk to your veterinarian about whether a specialized diet is right for your pug. Reassess the pug's diet over time. If you follow the manufacturer's portion size suggestions and notice your pug gaining unhealthy weight, talk to your vet. They can help you modify meal sizes or switch to a more appropriate food for your dog. The appropriate amount of food your dog should eat depends greatly on its specific body and how much exercise and activity it gets. Limit treats. Treats can be an important part of training, as well as a way to reward your pug for good behavior. However, you need to remember to factor a pug's treats into their daily food intake. Too many treats could cause unhealthy weight gain, which could cause or exacerbate respiratory and joint problems. Stick to small treats with your pug, such as training treats. Treats meant for larger dogs should be broken or cut into small pieces. Try to use treats consistently for one or two behaviors, such as after a walk or a bathroom break. Avoid giving your pug extra treats outside of these times so you can limit the dog's calorie intake. Offer your pug several shorts bursts of exercise throughout the day. Pugs are active, but often in short bursts, since their flat noses make it hard for them to cool down when running and playing. Help your pug exercise by offering 1 or 2 moderate walks during the day, along with periods of playtime, such as playing fetch, tug-of-war, or chase in the home or in your yard. Ideally, a healthy adult pug should get two 15-20 minute walks a day, along with smaller play times with toys throughout the day. If your pug has health problems, walks may need to be shorter. Keep your pug out of extreme weather. Pugs do best when kept in moderate temperatures and weather conditions. In warm areas or seasons, adjust your walks so that your pug isn't out during the hottest part of the day. In cold climates or seasons, consider getting your pug a coat for outside time. Avoid walks during very windy or excessively rainy days, as these can cause eye problems. Pugs are prone to heat stroke if the weather is hot enough. Be sure to never keep them out in the heat on an especially sunny day and make sure that the pug stays hydrated when you are exercising it. Use a harness on your pug. Due to their short muzzles, pugs sometimes have a hard time breathing. Avoid relying on a collar while walking your pug, as this could limit its breathing further. Attach their leash to a harness instead. Dog harnesses are available at all pet stores and can be purchased online. Train your pug. Pugs are typically smart little dogs that respond well to basic training. They aim to please, so teaching them basic commands by using treats and positive reinforcement usually works well. Be sure to be consistent with your training schedule, taking time to work with your dog every day. This will make caring for your pug easier in the long run and it will strengthen your relationship with the dog as well. Teaching your pug how to sit, stay, lay down, and come can be very useful for day to day interactions with your dog. They can be especially helpful if you are trying to discourage bad behaviors, such as chewing or aggression. You may also want to teach it how to play games, such as fetch. If your pug is especially adept at responding to your commands, consider teaching it how to run through a little obstacle course. Enroll your pug in an obedience class. Regardless of whether you bring home a pug puppy or an older rescue, enrolling it in a training class is an important part of bonding with your dog. This will help both of you learn a shared set of commands and provide a designated time each week for the two of you to bond. Pugs, especially young pugs, are energetic and eager to please. Enrolling in training will help them learn how to channel that energy into constructive behaviors and help you learn how to manage destructive tendencies. Create a space especially for your pug in your home. Pugs require attention, but should also have a space of their own in which they feel comfortable when you are not home or are otherwise occupied. Provide your pug with an area of its own including a bed and blankets, some toys, and easy access to food and fresh water. Consider putting the space in the corner of a well-used area in your home. This way, even if you cannot pay attention to your pug for a moment, they do not feel alone. Remember that pugs are sensitive to very hot temperatures and rapid temperature changes. Avoid setting up their space in areas with continued direct sunlight or near heating and cooling vents. Be consistent in your daily schedule. Pugs are prone to nervousness and anxiety. You can help them calm down by being consistent in your daily routine. This means scheduling feeding times, walks, play times, and quiet times as close to the same time every day as possible. Your personal schedule may change, but it is important to you try to keep your pug's schedule the same. Ask a friend or neighbor to help you out with feeding and walks on nights you know you'll be home late. Get a new pug assessed by a veterinarian. The pug's distinct physiology makes them susceptible to a number of health problems, including breathing and joint issues. Because of this, it is important to schedule a vet check as soon as you bring your new pug home. Your vet will be able to check for common pug health complications and make suggestions for care, such as what to feed your new dog. Have your pug seen by a veterinarian bi-annually. It is important for your pug to be seen by a veterinarian regularly so that it can get preventative veterinary care. A bi-annual check up will ensure that your dog stays up to date on immunizations, preventative medications, and that any emerging health problems can be dealt with quickly. Talk to your veterinarian about an appropriate check-up schedule. Younger pugs may need to see the vet more often until they are spayed or neutered and have completed their first course of shots. Your vet will help you work out a preventative care schedule for things like annual shots, heartworm treatments, parasite elimination, vaccinations, microchipping, and teeth cleanings, all of which are important parts of keeping your pug healthy. Communicate with your pug effectively. If you want your pug to be comfortable, you'll need to learn how it communicates and how to properly respond to it. If you don't have a lot of experience with dogs, educate yourself on how they communicate so that you can interpret your pug's body language and respond appropriately. This is especially important if you have children in the house. Teach your children how to recognize when your dog is anxious or fearful, so that they know when to back off. For example, if a guest is petting your pug and its tail is between its legs, it is likely scared and/or uncomfortable. To make your pug comfortable, politely ask your guest to take a couple of steps back, crouch down to the dog's level, and hold out their hand so that the dog can come to them. | Give their facial folds a weekly clean. Brush your pug 1 to 2 times a week. Clean their ears with a specialty solution once a week. Bathe your pug once a month. Trim their nails as necessary. Feed your pug size-appropriate portions. Give your pug an age-appropriate diet. Reassess the pug's diet over time. Limit treats. Offer your pug several shorts bursts of exercise throughout the day. Keep your pug out of extreme weather. Use a harness on your pug. Train your pug. Enroll your pug in an obedience class. Create a space especially for your pug in your home. Be consistent in your daily schedule. Get a new pug assessed by a veterinarian. Have your pug seen by a veterinarian bi-annually. Communicate with your pug effectively. |
https://www.wikihow.health/Treat-Sensitive-Teeth | How to Treat Sensitive Teeth | To treat sensitive teeth, try using a soft-bristled toothbrush with a desensitizing toothpaste to keep your enamel healthy and strong. Additionally, brush with a gentle circular motion to prevent gum recession, which can lead to sensitivity. You should also limit acidic foods and drinks, such as wine, citrus, coffee, and carbonated drinks, since they can wear away the enamel on your teeth. When you do drink acidic beverages, use a straw to avoid too much contact with your teeth. If you're still having sensitivity after trying these at-home techniques, consider talking to your dentist about sealants. | Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. It might seem like using a medium or hard-bristled brush will get your teeth cleaner, but using such an abrasive brush can wear away the enamel on your teeth. When the enamel gets worn off, the teeth feel sensitive because the dentin has been exposed. The dentin contains nerves in small dentinal tubules that are instantly stimulated by external factors, such as hot and cold liquids. Switch to a soft-bristled toothbrush, which will get your teeth just as clean without causing further sensitivity issues or hurt your gums. Use gentle pressure and remember that power is nothing compared to good technique. Avoid toothbrushes with tough plastic bristles - those aren't necessary for getting your teeth clean. Brush with a gentle circular motion. The way you brush your teeth matters as much as the toothbrush you use. If you tend to press hard and use a back-and-forth sawing motion, you're probably wearing away the enamel and causing gum recession by exposing the root of your teeth. This creates a double negative effect by affecting the look of your teeth and causing increased sensitivity. Instead, use a gentle circular motion to brush your teeth. Always brush with vertical strokes which should start from the gum line covering the entire tooth surface. Run the brush over the gums above your teeth and this way you will prevent gum recession and also stimulate the blood circulation in your gums for better protection against bacteria. Take your time and spend about three minutes going over all of your teeth in one brushing session. If you have trouble applying the right amount of pressure and using a circular motion while brushing your teeth, it might be helpful to get an electric toothbrush. The bristles spin in a circular motion and all you have to do is hold the head of the brush next to your tooth. Your teeth will get perfectly clean with little effort on your part. Use fluoride toothpaste. Fluoride strengthens tooth enamel and leads to reduced sensitivity and pain. Start using a fluoride toothpaste so that your teeth get coated in fluoride every day. In addition, you can use a mouthwash with fluoride. Your dentist may recommend doing a fluoride treatment using a more concentrated amount of fluoride applied directly to the places where your enamel has worn away. However, this should only be applied locally and you must take care not to ingest the fluoride. Note that some organizations advise against the use of fluoride, stating that it has negative effects on human and environmental health. Conduct your own research and talk with your dentist about the right choice for you. Use desensitizing toothpaste. Desensitizing toothpaste is formulated to coat the teeth and shield them from the substances that cause them to feel sensitive and painful. They basically seal any porous enamel or exposed dentinal tubules. After using it for several weeks, you should notice a decrease in sensitivity. If this doesn't work, then you should ask your dentist about other treatments for sensitivity. Make sure you to brush and floss every day. Sensitivity can also be the result of gingivitis, which results from the buildup of plaque and tartar on the teeth. Gingivitis causes the gums to bleed, swell, change their color, and sometimes cover various portions of your teeth and feel sensitive. Gingivitis can be avoided by practicing good dental hygiene, including brushing your teeth twice a day using the proper technique and flossing once a day. Be sure to get regular dental cleanings as well, since it's not possible to remove plaque that accumulates with flossing and brushing alone. Eat less sugar and starch. The bacteria that causes cavities to form feeds on carbohydrates - sugar and starch. If your diet is high in sugar and starch, cutting back can help reduce your cavities and go a long way toward treating your sensitivity. Bread, pasta, snack foods, and beans are starchy foods that could lead to cavities. Ice cream, candy, baked goods, and other sugary foods should also be avoided. When you do eat sugar and starch, make sure to drink water and brush your teeth afterward so that the substances don't remain on your teeth. Also, don't rinse your mouth right away if you are using a fluoride toothpaste. Leave it on for two minutes before rinsing. Limit acidic foods and drinks. Acidic foods can contribute to wearing away the enamel on your teeth. Cutting back on acidic foods and drinks will help keep your enamel intact. Consider limiting or eliminating the following: Wine Citrus Tea Coffee Tomatoes Carbonated drinks Use a straw. When you do drink liquids that are highly acidic, like tomato juice, orange juice or tea, use a straw so that the beverage deposits at the back of your mouth instead of swishing around your teeth. That way, you'll be able to enjoy your favorite beverages without worrying that they're wearing away your enamel. Drink more milk and water. After indulging in an acidic food or beverage, rinse out your mouth with water and drink a bit of milk. The water rinses away the acid and the milk, which is basic, changes the chemistry in your mouth to prevent your enamel from eroding. You can also swish for one minute with an alkaline solution made out of a spoon of baking soda dissolved into a glass of water. Consider having a sealant applied. The most common way to treat teeth with spots bare of enamel is the application of a sealant, which coats the tooth and serves the same purpose as the enamel. Once the sealant is applied, the sensitivity and pain will go away and the occlusal surface of your back teeth will be easier to brush, making bacteria go away faster. Talk with your dentist about whether this treatment option is a good choice for you. Ask your dentist if you grind your teeth. Many people grind their teeth in their sleep without even knowing it. If you grind your teeth you could be wearing away your enamel bit by bit. A dentist will be able to tell whether you grind at night by examining your teeth with a magnifying tool. If you do grind your teeth, it is likely that your dentist will recommend that you wear a mouthguard at night to prevent further damage from occurring. See if you need a root canal. If your teeth are extremely sensitive as the result of a deep cavity, you might be in need of a root canal to fix the problem. A root canal fixes issues with the tooth's soft core, which can become very sensitive. Your dentist will assess whether getting a root canal is necessary. | Use a soft-bristled toothbrush. Brush with a gentle circular motion. Use fluoride toothpaste. Use desensitizing toothpaste. Make sure you to brush and floss every day. Eat less sugar and starch. Limit acidic foods and drinks. Use a straw. Drink more milk and water. Consider having a sealant applied. Ask your dentist if you grind your teeth. See if you need a root canal. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Tell-a-Girl-You-Like-Her-over-Text | How to Tell a Girl You Like Her over Text | To tell a girl you like her over text, choose a time like the evening, when she'll most likely be relaxed and not too busy. If you're nervous about starting the conversation, try a brief and friendly greeting like, "Hi, what's up? Is the math homework destroying you as badly as it's destroying me?" That way, she'll have something to respond to immediately, and won't be confused about why you're texting her. Then, follow up your initial text by steering the conversation in a positive direction, ideally toward something you both like. For example, you could ask for her opinion on something or give her a sincere compliment, so she knows that you like her. You could also revisit something you've talked about before, which will show her that you're a good listener. | Get to know your crush a bit. Your crush may be the prettiest person in the woodwind section, but if you don't know anything about her, how can you know if she's someone you'd want to date? Try to notice the important things about her: if she treats her friends well; if she's nice to little kids and less popular people; if she's passionate about something cool. Make sure you like both her personality and her face before trying to date her. If she's funny, notice what kind of jokes she makes. A nice person doesn't hurt other people's feelings to get laughs. If she's smart, see if she helps others, too. If she walks the person sitting next to her through a math problem, it's a sign that she's kind, too. Hang out in person. If you go to school together, or have friends in common, figure out a way to talk to your crush a bit in a low-pressure situation. For example, you and your lab partner could collaborate with her and her lab partner or a project. If you want to see her outside of school, maybe she and her friends can come out with you and your friends. Say "Ellen and Tyree and I are going bowling after school--want to come with us? You can bring other people, too." If you don't have any mutual friends, start by talking to her , but skip the pick-up lines. Just smile, greet her by name, and ask about something you both have in common. Group hangs are fun, but they aren't the same as dates. Remember that you aren't on a date unless both people know it's a date. Figure out if she likes you. Girls aren't a different species, and they don't need to be decoded. You won't be able to know if she likes you just because she plays with her hair or touches your shoulder a certain amount of times. What you can tell is if she enjoys spending time with you. If her face lights up when she sees you, or if you have a great time swapping jokes whenever you hang out, you're probably on the right track. If a girl touches your arm or shoulder a lot, it's a sign that she feels comfortable around you, which is a good sign. If she initiates plans with you, such as asking to be conversation partners in Spanish class, that means she enjoys your company. If conversation flows naturally when you're together, you probably have both mutual interests and compatible communication styles. That's also good news. Get your crush’s number. Once you're friendly, and if you're still interested in your crush, take the next step and get her phone number. If you both hang out and talk already, this won't be a outrageous request, so stay calm. When you ask, say something simple and matter of fact, like “Can we trade numbers? I want to be the first to hear your opinions on the new Marvel movie.” If you're working on a project together, this'll be even more natural. Say “We'll probably need to meet over the weekend to lay out the newspaper together. Can I text you?” You can also make this part of planning a group hang. Say “I'm stoked for the concert with you, Brian, and Jessica. Can I have your number so we can make sure we meet in the same place?” Start with a brief greeting. When you've started texting your crush, it's best to begin in a friendly, open-ended way. A salutation and question initiates conversation, and allows you to gauge whether she's busy or preoccupied. For example, send a text that says “Hi, what are you up to?” or “Hello, how are you today?” Don't just say “hi” or “hey.” It sounds lazy, and she might not know what to say in response. Use follow-up questions to show your interest. Ask her to tell you more about her quirky dance teacher, her semifinal softball game, or what it's like to babysit her little brother. Text with good spelling and grammar. Texting etiquette is complicated. For instance, everyone knows that ending every text with a period makes you sound angry. You don't need to write an English paper, but do your best to check your spelling and not put commas where they don't belong. This will show her that you like her enough to put thought into your writing. "Hi, what's up? Is the math homework destroying you as badly as it's destroying me?" looks a lot better than "hi whats ^ is the math hmwrk killing u 2." Text in the evening. Most people are more relaxed in the evening, following a busy day at school or work. You'll have more time to respond to each other's thoughts this way. Plus, communicating with her at night can feel more romantic than telling her you like her in broad daylight. Make sure not to text after bedtime, which can feel invasive. Wind down the texts after 10 PM or so. Text when you know she won’t be busy. You want to be able to give your full attention to the conversation, and you want her to be able to give you attention too. This means that it's best not to text her when she's told you about other plans. If she's told you that she's going out with friends, for instance, give her a little space. You can always text her tomorrow and ask how her girl's-night-out went. It works the other way, too--don't text her right before a movie if you know you'll be distracted. Steer the conversation in a positive direction. The more upbeat and positive the conversation, the more receptive a girl will be when you tell her you like her. Try to stay away from negative topics that can ruin the mood, such as problems at school or work, or controversial subjects that can upset her and turn conversation sour. Talk about pop culture you have in common. If you're both giant Potterheads, ask how she feels about the new movie trailer. Joke about something in your daily life you both share. If the school lunch was an inedible casserole, ask if she's having nightmares about it too. Revisit topics you’ve discussed before. This shows you're a good listener and that you care, and that you pay attention to everything she shares with you. For example, if she once mentioned that she likes bowling, ask about her highest score or favorite alley. Give a sincere compliment. This is often more effective than telling a girl you like her, because it shows you understand her and recognize her best qualities. For example, if you like her knowledge of comics, tell her that you learn something new about the X-Men every time you talk to her. Avoid complimenting your crush's physical characteristics, like her body or eyes, at this stage. It can come off as creepy. If your crush has recently rocked a performance or other big event, congratulate her on her skills. Don’t over-text. Texting is fun, but too much of it can become really intense. If you're texting your crush for several hours a day, it might be time to dial it back a bit. This is especially true if you seem to be putting more effort into your texts than she is. If you text your crush twice and she doesn't respond, back off for a while. If she's into you, she'll text you again when she's ready. Don't go too far in the other direction and never text her back. You may be trying to play it cool, but if she feels ignored, she'll feel bad. Plan what you want to say. You don't need to write yourself a perfect script, but take a little time and figure out when and how to tell your crush that you're into her. If you think ahead a little bit, you're less likely to fumble and forget yourself, or blurt out something too intense (“I've had a crush on you for seven years!”). Consider that it's often better to ask someone on a clearly-defined date. This way, you're telling her that you like her and giving her an opportunity for an action plan. Know how you’ll deal if you’re rejected. Rejection happens to everyone, and it's not the end of the world. It's easiest to say something like “Thank you for telling me! I enjoy hanging out with you as friends, so no worries,” take a bit of space, then return to the friendship after a couple weeks. Tell her you enjoy spending time together. This is a confident, indirect way to tell a girl you like her without actually saying you like her. Send this text after hanging out together, or even after an official date. For example, you could say something like “I had fun with you tonight and enjoyed your company! Can't wait to do it again.” Tell her that you like her. Be simple and direct. This shows that you're confident and feel strongly enough about your feelings that you're willing to admit it word for word. Make your statement more personal by sharing what you like most about her. For example, say “I'm into you because you're so passionate about social justice,” or “I like you because you're sunny enough to brighten anyone's day.” Just like with compliments, mention something specific about her personality that you like. For example, tell her that she cracks you up whenever you hang out, or that her commitment to saving the environment is powerful and cool. Ask her out. Now that you've laid your feelings bare, you probably want to take your relationship a step further by dating. The only way to date a girl is, of course, to go on a date with her. After you've told her you like her, invite her on an outing for just the two of you. Make it clear that it's not a “group hang” or a casual thing--it's a real date. Suggest a specific date and time. This way, if she likes you but can't make it, she'll reschedule. If she's not interested, it'll be a lot easier on your feelings to hear “I'm sorry, I can't make it” then “I don't feel that way about you.” Plan the date around things you both like, like mini-golf and milkshakes. There's no point in doing something neither of you like! | Get to know your crush a bit. Hang out in person. Figure out if she likes you. Get your crush’s number. Start with a brief greeting. Text with good spelling and grammar. Text in the evening. Text when you know she won’t be busy. Steer the conversation in a positive direction. Revisit topics you’ve discussed before. Give a sincere compliment. Don’t over-text. Plan what you want to say. Know how you’ll deal if you’re rejected. Tell her you enjoy spending time together. Tell her that you like her. Ask her out. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Talk-to-a-Girl-Without-It-Getting-Boring | How to Talk to a Girl Without It Getting Boring | To talk to a girl without it getting boring, start off with a light-hearted topic that you can both talk about, like your favorite bands or movies you've seen recently. Ask her a few questions to get her involved in the conversation, like what she wants to do for a living, but avoid asking her anything that's too personal. Once you've gotten the conversation going, try to find something you and the girl have in common. After you've talked for a while, end the conversation while you're both still having a good time so you can leave on a positive note. | Start with a light topic. When you first start talking to the girl, pick a light topic that you can both chat about pretty casually that won't make things awkward. Don't tell her about the weird rash on your back or ask her about her most embarrassing moment; you can save that stuff for when you get to know each other better. Stick to the PG topics that can still lead to an interesting conversation without making the girl feel uncomfortable. Don't use profanity. She likes to be treated like a lady! Here are some pretty safe but fun topics that you can start off with: Your favorite bands Movies you've seen recently Your pets Your siblings What you did over the weekend or what you're going to do next weekend Your plans for the upcoming vacation Avoid the personal stuff. Avoiding the personal stuff goes hand in hand with starting with a light topic. Though you can have a deeper discussion once the girl gets to know you better, for now, it's best to avoid talking about any deaths in the family, your first loves, your weird illnesses, or your fear of death. If you feel like you have an instant connection with the girl, then you really might be able to wade through the small talk faster to get to the important stuff, but you should still avoid highly personal topics when you just start talking or the girl may back off. Okay, if she introduces a personal topic and is game for talking about it, then you can pursue it and see where it goes, but still try to stay on your toes. Check out the girl's facial expressions and body language. If she backs away or looks upset when you ask her something that you thought was pretty simple, then she might actually view it as a sensitive topic. Keep smiling. Maintaining a smile and a positive demeanor will keep the girl's interest and will make her more likely to keep talking to you. Though you don't have to grin until your cheeks are numb, you should smile whenever it's appropriate. This will let the girl see that you really like talking to her and will leave her with a positive feeling. You may be so nervous that you forget to smile, so remember to keep yourself in check. Smiling is especially important when you first start talking to the girl and at the end of the conversation. It's important to start off and to finish strong. Make eye contact. Making eye contact is key for making the girl feel important and like you really care about what she has to say. You may feel shy about talking to her and could end up staring at your feet or looking around just because you're afraid to look at her face, but try to break this habit as much as you can. You don't have to hold intense, loving contact the entire time you're talking to her or she may feel a little creeped out, but you should try to look into her eyes when she's talking as much as you can so she feels important. If you struggle to make eye contact or prefer to avoid it, try looking at her nose - but don't stare. Not everyone in the world can hold eye contact during conversation - tell her if you brave enough, a nice girl who is worth talking to will understand. Ask her questions. It's key to make the girl feel special as soon as you can. You can show her that you do really care about her by asking her questions, whether you're asking her about herself or about the things she's been up to recently. It doesn't have to be super personal -- and in fact, it shouldn't be -- but you should make an effort to show that you're trying to get to know her. If she doesn't ask you anything back, then you can stay away from the questions for a while, or she may feel like she's being interrogated. Here are some things you can ask her about: Her favorite hobbies and interests Her favorite bands, books, or TV shows Her favorite subjects in school Her dream job Her best friends Her plans Give her a compliment. Once you've talked for a bit, you can give the girl a small compliment to make her feel appreciated. You don't have to go overboard and shouldn't compliment her unless you really mean what you say. You can compliment her sweater, her new haircut, a piece of jewelry, or even an aspect of her personality. You shouldn't get too graphic ("You have great legs") or she'll get uncomfortable. Pick something PG and tell her that you like it to show that you care about her but don't want to overstep your bounds. Just one compliment per conversation is a good goal. You don't want her to feel like she's smothered with compliments, or like you don't really mean what you say. Find common ground. Once you've gotten the conversation going, you can start to search for common ground so you and the girl can find something else to talk about. Though you don't actually have to have anything in common to have a great conversation, finding common ground can help you make a connection a bit more easily. When you talk to the girl, try to see if you can find something you share, whether it's a love for a certain sport or sports team, the fact that you grew up in the same place, or even a shared friend or teacher. Talking about something you share can lead you to open up, see that you can have an exciting conversation, and to talk about new topics. For example, you can start by talking about how much you both love the 49ers, and then you can share your craziest stories about visiting their stadium, and from there, you may end up discussing your favorite things to do in San Francisco, and so on. Let the things you both share come up naturally instead of trying too hard to ask her if she likes the same things you do. Keep things open ended, so the conversation doesn't shut down if it turns out she doesn't share your interests. For example, instead of saying, "Did you see Frozen ? That's my new favorite movie," you can say, "Have you seen anything interesting lately?" Ask for her opinion. This is another way to keep the conversation going and to show the girl that you really like talking to her and that she means something to you. If you ask for her opinion, from what she thinks about the current political situation to whether she likes your new shoes, she'll see that you see her as a human being and that you really value what she brings to the table. She'll see that you're not just trying to hit on her but actually care about her, and that you respect her as a person. Don't ask her questions that can only be answered with a "yes" or a "no" and ask open-ended questions instead, so she has room to talk. Try "What do you think about…" instead of "Do you think that…" Use your environment. If you're nervous and feel like the conversation is flagging, look around you and see if you can use your environment to your advantage. Maybe there's a flyer for a concert behind you and you can ask the girl if she likes the band. Maybe you're standing near a coffee shop and you can ask her if she ever goes there to read. Maybe you notice she's wearing a sweatshirt for a certain college that your sister went to and you can ask her about her connection to the school. Though you shouldn't start looking around distractedly the second you start the conversation, if you start running out of things to talk about, you can try to pick up some cues from what's around you. This is a creative way to keep the girl's interest and to keep her talking. She'll be impressed by how perceptive you are. Make her laugh. If you want to keep the girl's interest, then cracking her up won't hurt. If you make the girl laugh, then she'll want to keep talking to you, so look for opportunities where you can put in a bit of humor. You can lightly poke fun at yourself, make fun of a person you both know in a kind way, or just tell her a corny joke if you really think she'll respond well. If you have a funny story that you think will actually make her laugh, you can tell it, as long as it's not too long and complicated. Don't overdo it, but look for opportunities to make the girl laugh. If you're not naturally funny, then don't try so hard to be someone you're not. The girl will see that you're really making an effort and might feel bad for you. Instead, just work on being yourself, and if you can make the girl laugh in the process, then great. If you don't know the girl very well, then don't tease her unless you're already flirting and teasing each other. She may take it the wrong way and can get offended, and you definitely don't want that. Let her talk. You may be so nervous about not boring the girl that you could end up dominating the conversation so much that she can't get a word in. Talking the whole time does not mean that you are holding her interest; instead, pausing and leaving room for some silence can be a great opportunity for her to start saying something interesting, too. Don't put all of the pressure on yourself and make sure you are each talking about half of the time, or a little less or more if one of you is shy. If you talk about yourself the whole time, then you'll look self-involved, and she won't want to keep talking to you. Ask about her interests. Almost every girl loves talking about the things that mean the most to her, so don't forget to ask her about what she likes to do for fun, how often she does it, why she likes it, and why it means so much to her. You don't have to pry too much and you'll see that the girl's face lights up when she starts talking about something that is really important to her. This will make the girl feel special and like you really care about what makes her tick. If she's not too elaborate when she discusses her interests, then you can share yours, as well. Show her what makes you stand out. You don't have to do backflips to leave an impression. However, you do want to walk away from the conversation making the girl feel like she has gotten to know you a little bit and that she has a sense of what makes you stand out from all of the other guys out there. Maybe it's your sense of humor, your charm, or your love for the guitar. Whatever it is, let her in a little bit and show her who you really are. That way, when she sees you again, she'll have something to talk about and will have fond memories of your last conversation. She doesn't have to know everything about you by the end of your ten or fifteen minute conversation. But she should walk away with at least one or two interesting facts about you. If you were just making small talk the whole time, then it would be hard to get to know each other on a real level. Don't try too hard. Remember to stay relaxed and to be yourself and know that the girl is likely just as nervous as you are. This means that you don't have to tell wildly made-up stories to get her attention or to talk about something you don't really like, like motorcycles, just because you think it'll make you sound cool. You shouldn't curse or say bad things about people just because you think it'll catch her eye. Just take a deep breath, relax, and talk about the things that you would say to any friend of yours instead of putting on an extra performance for the girl. If you're trying too hard, then the girl will be able to tell. Your goal should be to make her see that you like talking to her without showing that you think your conversation is a big deal. Keep things positive. As you feel the conversation wrapping up, remember to stay positive, no matter what you're talking about. If you spent the last five minutes complaining about your parents, your teachers, the weather, or something else that has been getting you down, then the girl won't be left with a very positive impression. You want her to leave with good vibes and to remember that talking to you was actually fun, not annoying or even painful. You may feel like griping, and you can do it a little bit if you and the girl can bond over something that annoys both of you, but try to save your negative thoughts for someone who knows you a little better. Keep your confidence up. Remember to stay confident throughout the conversation. Show the girl that you really believe in what you're saying and that you're happy to be who you are. If she gets this sense, then she'll see that you're a guy who is comfortable in his own skin and someone who is fun and easy to talk to. If you're nervous, putting yourself down, or making comments about how you can't find anything to talk about, then she'll feel uncomfortable and will be less likely to want to talk to you again. You don't need to act like you're the most interesting guy in the world or that you're hot enough to be a movie star; just act like you're happy with being you and the rest will follow. There's a difference between bragging and being confident. If you brag too much, the girl will be turned off. Say goodbye while you're still having a good time. This is a great way to leave a positive impression. If you find that the conversation is going really well and that you're having a great time and have really clicked, then tell the girl you really like talking to her but that you have to go. Though it may seem ridiculous to leave in the middle of an amazing conversation, this is exactly when you should leave if you want to leave an unforgettable impression in her mind. If you wait too long, you may see that the conversation drags or that you have nothing to talk about, and why would she want to talk to you again after that? Wait until you've really hit it off and then tell her you have to go as nicely as you can. If you're really feeling bold and the conversation has gone super well, you can even work up the courage to ask her to hang out again. | Start with a light topic. Avoid the personal stuff. Keep smiling. Make eye contact. Ask her questions. Give her a compliment. Find common ground. Ask for her opinion. Use your environment. Make her laugh. Let her talk. Ask about her interests. Show her what makes you stand out. Don't try too hard. Keep things positive. Keep your confidence up. Say goodbye while you're still having a good time. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-a-Bored-Indoor-Cat-Entertained-While-You%27re-Not-at-Home | How to Keep a Bored Indoor Cat Entertained While You're Not at Home | To keep a bored indoor cat entertained while you're not at home, open up some of your blinds and curtains so your cat can look out the window. You can also try leaving your TV on with a nature show playing to give your cat something to watch. Also, put out plenty of toys for your cat to play with, even if they're just empty boxes or wadded-up pieces of paper. Alternatively, get an interactive treat dispenser to keep your cat occupied while you're away. | Make your own toy. You can make it simple by simply wadding up some paper for the cat to bat around. There are many ideas for making basic cat toys. However, you can also get some tools and build a toy that involves all the bells and whistles of a store-bought toy. Choose a toy that involves movement. Some toys allow a cat to bat around balls in tubes or on towers. There are even some toys that play the laser game with the cat. Cats love to follow movement, and these kinds of toys will help keep them from getting bored. There also toys that mimic the movements of cat's natural play that will help keep the cat entertained. Avoid toys that have pieces a cat could swallow while you’re gone. You don't want to come home to a vet emergency because your cat has swallowed something that will make it sick. Providing safe toys will help dissuade cats from going for more dangerous items, but the best bet is to secure unsafe items away from the cat's reach. Your best bet is to check any warnings on the packaging to see if they recommend against unsupervised play. Find a toy that a cat can hit with their paws. In addition to allowing for movement, this allows the cat to control the motion, unlike with a laser toy or a toy that constricts the movement to a specific space. The cat can bat toy mice or little balls across the room and then chase them. It also helps if some of the toys are ones that cat can carry. This will help the cat live out its natural prey drive, and keep it entertained when it's home alone. Choose an interactive toy with treats. Some toys are designed to challenge a cat before dispensing a treat. This will give the cat something to work out while you're gone, and give it a nice treat, too. This helps the cat work its mind and body. Buy or build spaces for the cat to climb. An enriching environment will invite the cat to do more while you're gone. Just make sure that the cat can easily get down from any of these spaces. There are all kinds of cat trees and cat climbing spaces available out there. If you're worried about design, there are also design-friendly cat climbing fixtures. You can buy a lot of different structures from your local pet store or online. You can build a cat castle by taping or stapling cardboard boxes together and cutting out holes for the cat to climb through. Cats love boxes. You can even put up cat shelves for the cats to explore. Arrange the structures so that the cat can easily jump or climb from space to space. You don't want your cat to break something trying to get to a high spot, so make it easy for them to climb to it. You also don't want the cat to injure themselves or damage furniture in trying to make the jump or climb, so it's best to make sure high places aren't too far apart. Test out the distances with your cat when you're home. Remove any dangerous or breakable items from the area. If you have breakable items that you value, you may want to have a closed-in curio to display them, so that your cat won't knock them over. Also remove dangerous houseplants, cotton balls, and anything else the cat might be interested in chewing up and swallowing. Leave cat toys around the house. Cats like to discover their toys and it can be a great way to keep them entertained. The more toys the better. You can leave them in high places and even some hidden places (under the couch, for instance). That way the cat has "prey" all around the house. Leave the blinds open so that the cat can look outside while you're gone. Cats like motion, so they will enjoy seeing birds and squirrels go by. It will help keep them entertained in a non-predictable way, and is very cost effective as well. You need not open all the blinds or curtains, just a few that are near the couch or the cat's favorite perch. Get a scratching post or three. This is a great way to keep a cat busy. Cats need to scratch, and scratching posts are essential if you don't want your furniture and carpet completely scratched up. Scratching posts may not completely resolve that problem, but it will mostly likely help. There are all kinds of scratching posts out there in many different designs and to fit many different budgets. Try out different designs to see which the cat likes best. This will help keep your cat away from the furniture. Keep the television on. The volume shouldn't be turned up too high, but at normal speaking level. Human voices will make your cat less lonely, and the TV can be set for colorful children's programs or nature programs featuring birds and fish. This will help keep a cat entertained with the movement on the screen. Put on some music or sounds that your cat likes. Classical is often a nice genre, but if you know your cat likes a particular kind of music, play that. Leave it on repeat so that the cat has music all day long. The music should help relax an anxious cat. Leave out a couple of small, light boxes for your cat to jump around in. Cats love strange hiding places. Boxes are a cost effective way to keep your cat entertained. They are also easy to modify for cat toy projects. Choose a space for the catio. You'll want a space where the cat can at least see outside. If you have a sunroom or a closed-in porch, that can function as the perfect catio. The cat will be able to see birds and squirrels, which will keep them entertained for hours. A window can be a great fit for a catio. Get any necessary permits or permissions. If you rent, you may not be able to add a catio without the permission of your landlord. If it is an easily removable catio, this might not be a problem, but if you are building onto the house, it will likely need permission. Permits may also be required by the city or home owners' association. Contact your local permit office to get more information. Order or build a catio. If you don't have a sunroom or closed-in porch, you may have to build or buy a catio. Many places have design plans you can buy, as well as pre-designed catios that you simple have to install. If you're making your own, you'll need a screen that a cat can't claw through, wood for structural support, and a hard piece of material for the base. You can always make the base cushy, once you have the basic support. Make sure you measure your window before ordering a pre-made catio. Install the catio. When you have your catio, install it in the window. If you've measured correctly, this should be as easy as installing a window air conditioning unit. You'll want to make sure that there is no space around the catio for the cat to escape. If the catio doesn't fit perfectly, place some kind of firm barrier that the cat can't move in the space. Check to make sure the catio is secure. Make sure there are no cat-sized spaces for the cat to escape. Also make sure the catio has enough structural support. You might want to place something that weighs the same as your cat or cats in the catio to see if it remains stable. Shake the catio to make sure it's firmly in place. The last thing you will want is to come home and find your cat has escaped. Don't forget to make sure that other animals, especially predators, can't get into or dislodge the catio. Let your cat go for a test run. This is important for a couple of reasons. Letting the cat go for a test run while you're home will allow you to see if there are any problems that could arise while you're gone. It will also let you see if your cat even likes the catio and how your cat interacts with it. | Make your own toy. Choose a toy that involves movement. Avoid toys that have pieces a cat could swallow while you’re gone. Find a toy that a cat can hit with their paws. Choose an interactive toy with treats. Buy or build spaces for the cat to climb. Arrange the structures so that the cat can easily jump or climb from space to space. Remove any dangerous or breakable items from the area. Leave cat toys around the house. Leave the blinds open so that the cat can look outside while you're gone. Get a scratching post or three. Keep the television on. Put on some music or sounds that your cat likes. Leave out a couple of small, light boxes for your cat to jump around in. Choose a space for the catio. Get any necessary permits or permissions. Order or build a catio. Install the catio. Check to make sure the catio is secure. Let your cat go for a test run. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-False-Eyelashes | How to Apply False Eyelashes | To apply false eyelashes, first grip one of the strips of lashes with a pair of tweezers. Apply a thin bead of eyelash glue to the band at the base of the eyelashes, then wait 5 seconds for the glue to harden and become tacky. Carefully lower the eyelashes over your eye so that the band meets the edge of your upper eyelid. Use your finger to gently tap them and push them down if they're too high on your eyelid. Once they're in place, wait 2 minutes for the glue to cure. Then, repeat the process with the other strip of eyelashes. Finally, use some liquid eyeliner to draw a line from the inner end of each band to the inner corner of your eye to blend your lashes into your lash line. | Size the lashes. Before gluing the lashes on, you will need to make sure they are not too wide for your eye. Hold the lash strips up against your eyelid, and trim them down on the sides if necessary. If the lashes are too long for your personal taste, consider trimming the individual lashes down to achieve a more natural look. Lashes should be longer toward the outer corner of the eye. Apply the lash glue to the outer seam of the eyelash strip with an applicator or small brush. Allow the glue to dry for a moment before applying it to your lashes. Alternatively, you can squeeze a thin line of lash glue onto the back of your non-dominant hand. Then, gently run the outer seam of the eyelash strip along it. Place the strip on your eyelid, positioning it as close as possible to your natural lashes. Bring the strip down from above, not from the front. This is to ensure that you get as close as possible to your lashline. Allow the glue to dry naturally. Once the strip is in place, you do not need to press or hold it. Apply mascara to your lashes. This will help blend your natural lashes with the false ones, achieving a more natural look. You can use black, brown, or dark gray mascara. Apply liquid eyeliner along your upper lids. Be sure to fill in any gaps between the false lashes and your own to make them look more natural. Use black, brown, or dark gray liner. Use makeup remover to remove false lashes. Dip a q tip in eye makeup remover and gently rub it along your lash line. Allow the remover to sit for a minute, and gently pull off the strip. Finished. | Size the lashes. Apply the lash glue to the outer seam of the eyelash strip with an applicator or small brush. Place the strip on your eyelid, positioning it as close as possible to your natural lashes. Allow the glue to dry naturally. Apply mascara to your lashes. Apply liquid eyeliner along your upper lids. Use makeup remover to remove false lashes. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Aerobics | How to Do Aerobics | Aerobics are exercises that engage the large muscle groups in your arms and legs and increase oxygen flow to your muscles. Before you do aerobics, warm up properly by performing dynamic stretches, like arm circles and leg raises. Continue your warm-up by marching in place, then move forward 3 steps and back 3 steps while swinging your arms. When you're warmed up, perform exercises such as heel digs and duck steps for low impact aerobics, or scissor jumps and jogging on the spot for high-impact aerobics. | Determine what sort of aerobics you want. Some people are happy putting together their own workout, but more often this involves finding a program that appeals to you. Aerobic classes tend to have a lot of factors to consider when joining one. Some major ones: Gym or home? Do you prefer going to a gym, or doing workouts at home with a DVD player, YouTube video, or the like? The type of aerobic genre. There are many types of workouts, including: Targeted audiences: Aerobics for senior citizens, men, pregnant women, and so on. Themes: boot camp, martial arts, hip hop dance, Latin salsa, and more. Instructor. Classes tend to focus around the directions of the leader, (whether in real life or virtual) and if it is not a good match for you, it can ruin the experience. Different aerobics instructors will have different personalities, sensibilities, and demeanors. High versus low-impact. A more lengthy explanation of the pros and cons are below. Your current fitness level. If you are in great shape, maybe a very energetic program is for you. But if you are just starting out, you will need a more beginner program. Set aside enough time to meet exercise recommendations. Regardless of your goals — losing weight or just improving overall health — you won't see or feel any change in your body unless you exercise regularly. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends that adults get at least 2.5 hours of moderate aerobic exercise (low-impact aerobics) or 75 minutes of strenuous aerobic exercise (high-impact aerobics) per week. So one hour-long low-impact aerobics class per week isn't enough to meet professional standards for a healthy lifestyle. Set aside enough time throughout the week to reach your exercise goals. Another way to approach your routine is to elevate your heart rate for half an hour every day, taking a day off here and there. If you are trying to lose weight, you should increase the amount of time you dedicate to exercise, as these recommendations are a minimum guideline for healthy living. Pre-prepare a workout plan. Regardless of what type of aerobics you're doing, you want to make sure you're working out your entire body in a thoughtful manner. Of the five recommended elements of physical activity — aerobic exercise, strength training, core exercise, balance training, and flexibility — aerobics itself is simply one piece of the overall picture. However, with a little bit of pre-planning, you can incorporate steps and tools into your workout plan that help you achieve the recommended balance. Aerobic exercise: obviously, you want to keep your heart rate elevated throughout. This is why aerobics instructors ask you to march in place in between steps rather than stopping and taking a break. If you can speak easily, you're not working out hard enough. Strength training: Holding hand weights while performing your aerobics routine will help build muscles in the arm, while adding ankle weights will build leg muscle. Core strength: Incorporate moves that target the muscles in your abdomen — windmills, for example. The addition of hand weights while performing windmills will result in an even better core workout. Balance training: Many moves in aerobics require you to shift your weight from one foot to the other. Focus on the slow, deliberate transfer of weight and the balance of your body when doing these steps. Hamstring curls and ski jumps, for example, are a good opportunity to focus on balance. Flexibility: When performing steps that require stretching, commit all the way to the stretch. Windmills are a great example of an exercise where you may not be able to reach your feet at first due to poor flexibility. With some attention and practice, your flexibility will increase over time. Wear clothes that let you move. Aerobics will lead you through a wide range of motion, so don't wear stiff clothes that will keep you from moving your arms and legs comfortably. You'll also sweat a lot, so wear clothes that won't make you overheat — athletic shorts and a t-shirt will work just fine. Make sure you're wearing shoes designed for exercise, not flats or work shoes. Prepare a large, clear area. You'll be swinging your arms, kicking your legs, and moving around while doing your aerobics routine. You don't want to knock things over, so pull tables and chairs into a corner, clearing a large space where you can move freely without having to worry about breaking something or hurting yourself by running into a table. Make a good workout playlist. Studies have shown a correlation between a good workout playlist and increased workout efficiency. Because the main point of aerobics is to raise your heart rate, choose only music that has a fast rhythm, so you'll have to work hard to keep up with the beat. Only choose songs that you like, though! The more you enjoy the music, the more you'll get into the steps you're doing, and the better your workout will be. Furthermore, if you enjoy the workout because of the music, you'll be less likely to get bored and stop working out after a couple of sessions. Do dynamic stretches before exercising. Dynamic stretches are movements that go through a full range of motion as opposed to static stretches that are held for twenty or thirty seconds. There are many different types of dynamic stretches that you can do to warm up. Arm circles can help increase the range of motion in your shoulders. Hold your arms out straight to form a T. Make small circles with them for ten seconds before reversing the direction of the circle. Raise your arms in front of you before bringing them straight above your head. Try to bring them down as far back behind you as they will go. Move them back to starting position, and repeat. Lie down to do hip and knee bends. Bend your knee as you bring it up towards your chest. Slowly straighten it back out again. Repeat with the other leg. Keep a water bottle handy. As you're sweating during your workout, your body will begin to dehydrate. If you don't replenish your body with water throughout your workout, you can overexert and hurt yourself, so keep water nearby and drink whenever you get thirsty or need to cool down a little. Understand reasons for choosing low-impact aerobics. Low-impact aerobics avoid movements that put a lot of pressure on joints, including movements like jumping, running in place, and the like. Low-impact aerobics is designed to minimize the risk of leg injuries, and is recommended for seniors, pregnant women, and overweight people. If you fall into one of those categories or have joint problems you should not attempt high-impact aerobics at all, unless you doctor approves it for you. If you're out of shape and want to ease your way into a workout regimen, low-impact aerobics is a great way to get your body used to a range of motions before you start pushing yourself. Low-impact aerobics are not only for people with "issues". Many workouts designed for minimizing impact are just as effective as high impact, without as much risk of injury. Not all "low-impact aerobics" are appropriate for everyone. It is not risk-free. A very overweight or out of shape person may still get injured if he or she is working out at too high a level. Using improper form or incorrect movement patterns may also cause injury. Cycle through a variety of different motions. It doesn't matter what order you go in, but stay in each motion for at least one or two minutes before moving on to the next motion. You should repeat the same motions repeatedly throughout your workout. If you are having difficulty with a more advanced move, return to more basic movements, such as stepping back and forth. Once your muscles stop burning, go back to the more difficult motions. March in place to warm up. Don't begin your workout in earnest until you've warmed up your body. In warming up, you gradually increase blood flow throughout your body and loosen up the muscle groups you'll be using, reducing the risk of muscle stress. Use the rhythm of the music you're playing to guide your steps, but the music should be fairly fast-paced to make sure you're moving fast enough to get your heart rate up. Your arms can hang naturally at your sides, or you can swing them in a sharp, but controlled motion to work out your arm muscles as well. Make sure to lift your knees enough to cause your legs to burn over a period of time. Simply shuffling in place will not make you sweat! Do this for at least two minutes to warm your body up in preparation for a wider range of more demanding movements. Get into the music! Clap your hands if you feel like it. The more fun you're having, the more likely you'll be to continue exercising. Travel forwards and backwards. Walk forward three steps, swinging your arms energetically at your sides; on the fourth count, tap your foot on the ground and clap your hands. Repeat this motion moving backwards, so you end up where you began. Remember to change which leg you being with. Repeat motion for as long as you'd like, until you get bored of it and want to move on to a new movement. Perform heel digs. Staying in place, extend each leg forward and tap the heel of the foot against the ground, alternating legs to the beat of the music. Lift your hands to shoulder or chest level every time you draw a foot back, and fully extend your arms downward with every foot extension. Keep your motions controlled and deliberate to make sure that you're engaging your muscles instead of letting gravity do all the work for you. Do step-touches. Take a wide, but comfortable step to the right (don't lose your balance!), then bring your left foot to your right foot and touch the ground with it. Move your left foot back out to your original position, then touch your right foot to the ground by your left foot. You can combine this with any number of arm movements, from controlled arm swings to shoulder rolls. A shoulder roll is simply when you pull one shoulder forward slightly, then roll it up and back. Alternate shoulders to the beat of the music, working out your shoulder and back muscles. Do duck walks. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Lower your body into a squat, and start taking small steps forward. Continue walking forward for thirty to sixty seconds. This increases the burn in your thighs. You can pump your arms in a controlled manner at your sides. It's important to keep a straight back during this step to prevent back pain. Do grapevines. Take a comfortably wide step to the left, but when you bring your right foot over to meet it, cross your right foot behind and past your left foot; with your weight on your right foot, bring your left foot over to the left to stand comfortably for a beat before bringing your right in to tap your left foot. Then repeat the process to the right side. Kick your leg out to the front on the last beat (when you would normally simply tap one foot to the other) to increase your activity rate. Begin the movement to the left with your arms down, and slowly lift them out to your sides and up over your head in a deliberate, wide motion, with your hands meeting over your head on the fourth beat. Bring your arms down during your movement to the right so the return to their beginning position. Perform hamstring curls. Take a comfortably wide step to the right, then lift your left heel behind you, bending at the knee. Don't swing your entire leg, just bend your heel back toward your bottom. Bring your foot back down, then repeat the motion on the left side, alternating sides to the rhythm of the music. You can push your arms forward as though pushing the air away from your chest on the leg curl, then pull your arms back into your chest when you return your foot to the ground. You can also do bow-and-arrows with your arms: extend one arm out directly to the side and tuck the other into your chest while keeping your elbow pointed out to the side. Alternate sides to match your feet movement. The motion should look a little bit like using a bow and arrow. To increase the muscle exertion, you can double or triple up on the curls you do on each side before moving on to the other leg. This way, you muscle doesn't get to relax immediately, and the workout is a little more difficult. Find a low impact aerobics class. There are many styles of low impact aerobic exercise, so you should be able to find a class that works for you. Keep an eye out for: Low impact step aerobics Low impact Zumba classes: though Zumba, a dance exercise that incorporates Latin and world music, usually involves a good amount of jumping and bouncing that can be stressful on joints, look for a class that offers a low-impact alternative. Power yoga: power yoga is a more athletic form of yoga that was invented in the United States. It's a rigorous exercise that will increase your heart rate without stressing your joints, but make sure to look for a beginner's class. A spinning class: these classes involve riding a stationary bike, but are often set to workout music chosen by the class's instructor Water aerobics: these classes take place in a pool. The water's natural buoyancy protects your joints, but also provides greater resistance to your movements, resulting in a safe and vigorous workout. Do high impact aerobics if you have healthy joints and are in shape enough. Research suggests that when healthy bodies engage in activities that exert force on the joints, it can actually help build and strengthen bone, and of course, more strenuous exercise raises the heart rate more. Again, do not attempt high impact aerobics if you have joint or bone pain, unless your doctor permits it. If you think you're in good enough shape to jump right into high impact aerobics, this is a great way to get your heart rate pumping harder and shape your muscles more than low impact aerobics. Just as with low impact aerobics, you will create your own combinations and routines from a range of steps, all performed to high-paced music. Warm up. Warm up just as you would for low-impact aerobics, by marching in place. This is just to get your body ready for physical exertion. Perform dynamic movements with a full range of motion. Start by doing arm, shoulder, leg, ankle and wrist circles. Gradually increase the range of motion by doing knee, neck and back bends. March in place for about two minutes before beginning your combinations. Do scissor steps. This motion calls for you to jump, moving your legs back and forth in a scissoring motion. You can keep your hands on your hips or swing them in a controlled motion at your sides, as you normally would during walking or running, but with a more exaggerated range. From a standing position, jump so your left foot is forward and your right foot is back. Jump again, switching the position of your feet. You should switch foot position for each beat of the song you're listening to. Make sure to center your balance. Put your arms out to the side to stabilize yourself if you feel like you're going to fall. Do windmills. This motion is stationary, in that your feet are set, but it's still a difficult motion and you can lose your balance if you're not careful. Begin with your feet about shoulder-width apart, in the “stride” position. Extend your arms out directly to your sides, making sure they stay parallel to the ground. Keeping your arms straight through the elbow, reach your right arm down to touch the instep of your left shoe. Do you best not to bend your knees. Your left arm should swing behind your body, and your face should rotate to look out to the left. Return to your original position, then repeat on the other side, touching your left hand to your right shoe. Keep your abs contracted. Make sure that your back straight as flat as possible instead of letting it slump and get rounded. Jog in place. Let your arms swing naturally at your side as they would during a normal jogging motion. If you want to make this motion more difficult, bring your knees up higher. Alternate between normal jogging and high-knee jogging to keep your heart rate up without wearing yourself out completely. Do ski jumps. Begin in a position like you do when you're skiing, with your knees bent, your torso leaned forward slightly, and your hands at your chest with your elbows tucked in. From your bending position, jump up and to the right side, making sure you jump with both feet at the same time, then land with both feet at the same time. Balance your weight over your heels and sink down into your bent stance again. The jumping movement should be completely lateral, not forward and back. As you're completing the jumping motion with your legs, bring your hands up to the sides of your head as you extend into the jump, then bring them down to your sides, keeping elbows bent, as you land and go back into your bent position. Jump from left to right, repeating this motion. To increase the level of difficulty, place an object next to you to jump over. By increasing the required height of the jump, you'll get a better workout. Do repeater movements of basic steps. Regardless of which step you're doing — from hamstring curls to windmills — repeat each motion three times before switching sides. This increases the level of difficulty and makes your muscles burn more quickly, since you don't get a chance to rest that side of your body immediately after performing a movement. Find a high impact aerobics class. There are many styles of high impact aerobic exercise, so you should be able to find one that meets your liking. Some examples of classes to keep an eye out for include: Step aerobics Zumba, a dance exercise that incorporates Latin and world music Crossfit training, a demanding exercise program that cycles you through a wide variety of exercises and styles Capoeira, a Brazilian martial arts form that incorporates dance and acrobatics set to music Tae Bo, an aerobic exercise form that combines elements of Tae Kwon Do, karate, boxing, and dance. Call your local gyms and inquire into the high impact aerobic classes they offer. | Determine what sort of aerobics you want. Set aside enough time to meet exercise recommendations. Pre-prepare a workout plan. Wear clothes that let you move. Prepare a large, clear area. Make a good workout playlist. Do dynamic stretches before exercising. Keep a water bottle handy. Understand reasons for choosing low-impact aerobics. March in place to warm up. Travel forwards and backwards. Perform heel digs. Do step-touches. Do duck walks. Do grapevines. Perform hamstring curls. Find a low impact aerobics class. Do high impact aerobics if you have healthy joints and are in shape enough. Warm up. Do scissor steps. Do windmills. Jog in place. Do ski jumps. Do repeater movements of basic steps. Find a high impact aerobics class. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Dispose-of-Knives-Safely | How to Dispose of Knives Safely | Before disposing your knife, use bubble wrap to safely coat the blade. Then, place the knife in a cardboard box, such as an old shoebox, for additional protection. If you don't have bubble wrap or cardboard, try covering the blade with newspaper or old clothes before putting it in the trash. Instead of throwing the knife in the garbage, contact your local recycling center to find out if they recycle knives or consider donating the knife to a local business, like the Salvation Army. | Use bubble wrap. If you're going to throw your knife away, bubble wrap is your best option. This safely coats the blade, preventing injury and accident during disposal. You might want to wrap the knife in butcher paper first. Then, wrap the knife in a few layers of bubble wrap. If necessary, wrap a layer of duct tape around the bubble wrap to keep it secure. Try cardboard. You should consider adding an additional layer of cardboard when disposing of a knife. Place it in an old shoebox or other cardboard container before throwing it out. This may also be effective if you plan on donating the knife. Make use of other materials. If you do not have cardboard or bubble wrap, you can use newspaper, old clothes, socks, or any material you can easily wrap around the blade. Simply wrap the knife in a few layers of your chosen materials. If necessary, wrap some tape around the material to keep the knife in place. Place the wrapped knife in a cardboard box and throw it away. If you're intent on throwing away the knife, place it in a box before throwing it out. Make sure to seal the box with duct tape before tossing it in the garbage. This minimizes the risk of injury to your garbage person. Recycle the knife. If your local recycling center accepts metal, you can recycle a knife. If you're unsure about your recycling center's policies, call during business hours and ask. Make sure your knives are wrapped and secure before recycling them. Contact a professional knife-sharpener. Even if you no longer have use for the knife, it may be worth your time to contact a professional knife-sharpener. Check the yellow pages and the internet to see if you can find a knife-sharpener in your area. A knife-sharpener may be interested in purchasing an old knife as it can be repurposed and used in repairs. Consider donation. You might also want to donate the knife. Even if the blade is dull, someone may be interested in purchasing it to sharpen and re-use. Check with local businesses like Goodwill and the Salvation Army to see if they take knives as donations. Sell it for scrap metal. Try to figure out what kind of metal your knife is made out of. Most knives are made of steel, iron, or some mixture of metals. Depending on the metal type, you may be able to sell it for scrap. Look online or in your yellow pages and make some phone calls. See if anyone is interested in buying your old knife for scrap. | Use bubble wrap. Try cardboard. Make use of other materials. Place the wrapped knife in a cardboard box and throw it away. Recycle the knife. Contact a professional knife-sharpener. Consider donation. Sell it for scrap metal. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Submit-a-Story-to-a-Magazine | How to Submit a Story to a Magazine | Before submitting your story to a magazine, read different publications to figure out where your story "fits" best. Look for university or indie presses, or magazines that are asking for submissions to story contests. When you've found a good fit, draft a cover letter that includes your contact information and a quick, 25-word overview of your story. Use a clean, professional font, like Calibri or Times, and include a short, three-sentence bio for the editors to use if you're published. | Write a cover letter. Whether you're submitting your story over the internet or printing it and mailing it in, including a cover letter helps the editors keep tabs on your submission and remind them what it is about after reading other submissions. The cover letter should include your name and address, maybe your bio, as well as a quick look at the story. The brief look at your story is not a summary. Rather, limit this to 25 words and quickly explain who the main character is and what the conflict is about. Address the letter to the editor by name. You can usually find the names of editors in the “About” sections of magazine websites or in books previously published. Write a brief bio about yourself. In case your submission is chosen, the editors may want to include a short bio about you, about 3 sentences long. To prevent them from having to do more work by asking you for a bio once they are ready to publish, furnish them with one in your cover letter. Keep this bio about your work, not your likes and dislikes. You may want to list where you live, work, and where else you have been published. If you've never been published, focus on your experience and education. Avoid decorative fonts. Decorative fonts like script or cursive make your writing unprofessional and your words difficult to read. Since the industry standard is plain, clear fonts like Calibri and Times, your submission should reflect understanding of this. If you want to be taken seriously, be serious about your font. Also avoid creative font colors and varying sizes of font. Make sure you revise. No matter what writing style editors prefer, they all like to get stories that are polished--and that means proofreading. Also look at your story for awkward wording and redundancy to boost the story's appeal. Take into account that many editors don't like to see overwriting. Paring down your extra adjectives and being conservative with adverbs can keep your language simple yet engaging. One way to trim the fat from your writing is to use simple dialogue tags like “said” instead of flowery verbs like “uttered.” Record where you submit. Write down or type up a list of where you send your stories and when. This way, if you send the same story to multiple magazines, it will be easy to figure out who to tell if your story gets accepted. You can't have your work published in more than one place at a time. If you do submit the same story to different magazines at the same time, inform the editors in your cover letter that it is a “simultaneous submission” and assure them that you will inform them if your story is chosen elsewhere before they get to it. Some journals and magazines do not accept simultaneous submissions. Such magazines will sometimes automatically reject your story if this is the case. Read closely when you send in your story to make sure it is ok to send it to more than one place at the same time. Read the magazine. One of the best ways to reduce your risk of getting rejected is to read the magazine you want to be published in. Some writers refer to this as “research,” and it truly is the only way to tell if your story will be a good fit for the magazine. Read the short stories they publish and look for tone and writing style. If yours doesn't match, it is doubtful you will be published. Another way to find a magazine that will fit the style of your story is to look at the publication history of your favorite contemporary author and see what magazines they submit to. Chances are that your style models theirs, so magazines that took their story might accept yours. Read submission guidelines. Another way to make sure you don't get immediately rejected is to read the submission guidelines. For example, many magazines only publish particular genres, and others change what kind of stories they want every few months. If your story doesn't meet the guidelines, you will quickly be rejected and perhaps even labeled as a lazy submitter. Submission guidelines are usually posted on the same page as the online submission portal or near the address where editors want stories received. Learn the types of magazines that take stories. Literary magazines, usually either university or indie presses, are mainly the ones who take short stories. There are many other magazines out there, from scientific to pop culture, but most of these magazines aren't looking for short stories. Focus on finding literary magazines. Literary magazines aren't the only magazines that take short stories. The New Yorker , for example, has a short story section. There are many articles on the internet that compile lists of magazines that accept stories. Find one of these lists to get started. Some magazines advertise for submissions to “contests” rather than directly to their magazines, so include the word “contest” in an internet search for magazines to submit to. Find submission portals. Look on the websites of different magazines to figure out how and where to submit your story. Some websites have submission portals where you simply upload your story, whereas others require you to mail in a paper copy. If the latter is required, the address to send the story will be published on the magazine's website or can be obtained over the phone and in previous magazine printings. Be ok with rejection. It can feel devastating to be rejected by a magazine, especially when you have put a lot of work into a story. But don't shut down. Rejections can happen for more reasons than simply that your story “wasn't good.” You may have misinterpreted the submission guidelines or been a bad fit for the magazine. Get back out there and find other magazines to submit to. Don't try to contact a magazine that has rejected your story. This displays immaturity and a misunderstanding of how the publishing industry works. You don't have to steer clear of a magazine just because they rejected one story. Unless they ask you to stop submitting, you can continue to submit other stories. The truth is that the publishing industry is very competitive, and even small presses get flooded with submissions. As a result, almost all submissions get rejected. Don't take it personally. Try again with other magazines if you are rejected. Keep submitting your stories to magazines. If you are a strong writer, one day you will most likely be accepted. Find other writers to encourage you when you get discouraged, and revise your stories. You can even tailor a story to fit the style of a particular magazine to increase your odds of being accepted. Send the editor what they need if accepted. Once you get accepted, the editors might want additional items from you, like your approval for edits they want to make. These will more than likely be formatting and proofreading changes rather than changes to the meaning of your words. Send a thank you letter when accepted. A thank you email works, but a real letter makes more of a lasting impact, which can increase your reputation and odds of getting published again. Buy copies of the magazine you are published in. Even though you are a writer in a publication and may receive free copies of the magazine as a result, it is polite to purchase a few copies. This helps the magazine stay running and gives you more copies to circulate among friends and colleagues. | Write a cover letter. Write a brief bio about yourself. Avoid decorative fonts. Make sure you revise. Record where you submit. Read the magazine. Read submission guidelines. Learn the types of magazines that take stories. Find submission portals. Be ok with rejection. Try again with other magazines if you are rejected. Send the editor what they need if accepted. Buy copies of the magazine you are published in. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Felony-Reduced-to-a-Misdemeanor | How to Get a Felony Reduced to a Misdemeanor | To get a felony reduced to a misdemeanor after you've been sentenced, you'll need to sign a petition with your court. First, check your state's requirements for reducing felonies, since every state is different. For example, you may be required to wait a certain number of years after finishing your sentence, and your state might only reduce certain types of felonies. If you're eligible, ask your court clerk for the relevant forms and fill in the details of your case. Make several copies of the documents, return them to the clerk, and pay the filing fee. You'll also need to get someone to serve a copy to the prosecutor of your case, such as your local sheriff or someone not involved in the case. Once you've filed the necessary forms, you'll be notified about your hearing to decide if your felony will be reduced. | Get a lawyer. You are entitled to have a lawyer represent you in most criminal proceedings, even if you can't afford to hire one yourself. Criminal defense attorneys and public defenders will have experience in plea negotiations and will most likely have an existing work relationship with the judge and prosecutor. Plead not guilty. Your first court appearance is usually the arraignment, at which you will be asked to enter a plea. By entering a "not guilty" plea, you require the prosecution to prove your guilt in court. To avoid trial, and because jails and courts are overloaded, the prosecutor will probably try to negotiate an agreement under which you will plead guilty in exchange for some trade-off. Approximately 90% of criminal cases end with a plea bargain. If you do not accept a plea bargain and are found guilty at trial, you are likely to face a much harsher punishment than what you could have accepted under the plea deal. Let the next stages unfold. The prosecution and your attorney will continue to work on the case, gathering evidence and working on a plan for the trial. You can have plea discussions at any time during the next stages. If the prosecutor discovers that your case will be hard to prove, you may get a better plea deal, including having a felony charge against you reduced to a misdemeanor. However, if the evidence against you is strong, the prosecutor may not offer a deal at all. The next stages of the case include: Discovery: Both sides in collect and exchange information as they assemble evidence and witnesses for trial. Motions: Written requests asking court to resolve a disagreement about the law or instruct the parties to do something. A motion's outcome can affect plea bargaining. For example, a successful motion to exclude important evidence from the prosecution's case can persuade a prosecutor to offer a favorable plea deal. Preliminary hearing: The prosecutor shows the court that the state has enough evidence and witnesses to justify taking the case to trial. The defense can try to prevent evidence from being used at trial by arguing why it should be excluded. Trial: Both sides take turns arguing that the you are guilty or innocent. At the end, unless the you waive your right to a trial by jury, the jury will deliberate and decide on a verdict. You can still engage in plea bargaining during pauses in the trial and during jury deliberations. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of your case. Your attorney will analyze the elements of the case that the prosecutor will have to prove, as well as how hard it will be for the prosecutor to prove them. Before your attorney enters into plea discussions, he or she should have a good idea of what pieces of evidence the prosecution will be able to use to prove each detail necessary to convict you, and what details are going to be hard to prove. Negotiate with the prosecution. Your attorney to contact the prosecutor to try to negotiate a plea deal. The attorney should be prepared to argue the strengths and weaknesses of your case, and to remind the prosecutor of the weaknesses in the state's case against you. The prosecutor will be trying to convince your attorney to persuade you to accept the maximum charge and punishment, while your attorney will be arguing that the prosecutor's case is weak. Accepting a misdemeanor instead of a felony is often a good middle ground for both sides. Consider this hypothetical: Don is charged with attempted murder, a felony, as a result of a fight between Don and Vic. There is only one witness, Walt, who said that Don tried to kill Vic during the fight. During discovery, Don's attorney finds out that Walt has always hated Don. Don's attorney tells the prosecutor that Walt probably embellished his testimony in order to get Don into more trouble. The prosecutor realizes that Walt may not be a good witness, and offers to drop the attempted murder charge if Don will plead guilty to battery, which is only a misdemeanor. Verify that charge reduction is available in your state. Some states offer the option to ask a court to reduce a charge from a felony to a misdemeanor after you have served your sentence. There are many reasons to seek a reduction of the charge, including being able to get a professional license, keeping the right to serve on a jury, restoring your right to own a firearm, and being able to deny ever having been convicted of a felony when filling out a job, housing, or loan application. If you are not sure whether your state offers charge reduction, research online or contact the court clerk's office, an attorney, or a librarian at a law library. Get the necessary paperwork. Ask the court clerk what forms you need to submit to ask the court to reduce a felony to a misdemeanor. The court may have pre-printed forms available for you to use. You will be required to enter your personal information, as well as information about the case, the punishment you received, and the reason you wan t the charge reduced. Meet the charge requirements. States typically require that the felony you want reduced not be a particularly serious offense. Check your state's requirements, which should be listed among the instructions of the form you request from the clerk. For example, in California, you can only get a felony reduced if the offense was a "wobbler." A "wobbler" is a crime that the prosecution can choose to charge as either a felony or a misdemeanor, such as burglary or assault with a deadly weapon. In Indiana, the charge must have been a "Class D" felony and not been related to a violent or sexual crime. Meet other requirements. In addition to certain requirements about the nature of the felony itself, different states impose additional requirements that must be met in order to ask the court to reduce the felony to a misdemeanor. These requirements should be listed on the forms. In California, you are not eligible if you served time in prison. You are still eligible if you were granted probation or only served time in county jail. in Indiana, you must wait three years after finishing your sentence before you apply. You must also not be a sex or violent offender, have any other felony convictions, or have any pending criminal charges. File your documents. Make several copies of your documents and take them to the court clerk. The clerk will stamp your documents, file the originals, and return the copies to you. You will be required to pay a filing fee. The fee may be either for a petition or a motion, depending upon how your court handles these requests. If you cannot afford to pay the fee, ask the court clerk for information on how to apply for a fee waiver. Serve the prosecutor. Unless the clerk's office routinely serves the prosecutor on behalf of applicants, you will need to give formal notice of your request to the prosecutor's office. You cannot serve the prosecutor yourself. Arrange for a process server, the sheriff's department, or anyone over 18 and not involved in the case to deliver the documents to the prosecutor's office. The server must complete and sign a "Proof of Service" or "Affidavit of Service." This form should be available from the clerk's office. Once the server completes the form, take the form to the clerk's office for filing. Attend the hearing. The clerk will notify you of your hearing date by mail. On the date set for your hearing, dress professionally, arrive in court early, and wait for your case to be called. The judge will ask you any questions he or she has about your request, and give the prosecutor an opportunity to object to your request. Be prepared to explain how you have turned your life around and why you want to have the felony conviction removed from your record. For example, explain to the judge that you are no longer abusing drugs or alcohol or involved with gangs, if those factored in to your conviction. The judge will want to see that you have been able to stay out of trouble and are not likely to commit another crime. If your request is granted, the judge will order that your criminal record be modified to reduce the felony charge to a misdemeanor. | Get a lawyer. Plead not guilty. Let the next stages unfold. Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of your case. Negotiate with the prosecution. Verify that charge reduction is available in your state. Get the necessary paperwork. Meet the charge requirements. Meet other requirements. File your documents. Serve the prosecutor. Attend the hearing. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Bees | How to Get Rid of Bees | To get rid of bees, it's best to contact your local government or a bee removal specialist since the process can be difficult and dangerous. Professionals may use smoke or strong pesticides to exterminate the bees, and removal of the nest itself could require carpentry work. Be sure all nests and honeycombs are removed, then make repairs immediately and clear your property of ideal nesting spots to prevent the bees from returning! | Make sure you’re dealing with bees. Whenever you spot what you think is a bee, take a good look at the insect before you attempt to do anything else. Confirm that it is indeed a bee and not a wasp or hornet. Tell the difference by: Hair: Bees appear furry all over. Wasps and hornets may have a small amount of hair on their bodies, but you'd need to inspect them very closely to see it. Food sources: Bees nourish themselves from flowers' nectar. Wasps and hornets prey on other insects and/or scavenge food waste. Thickness: Bees tend to be pretty plump in the middle, while wasps and hornets have thinner waists and more elongated bodies. Take a photo to determine what type of bee it is. Expect different types of bees to require different approaches when it comes to getting rid of them. Take a picture of them to show a professional exterminator or beekeeper, or compare it with online resources like http://www.adkinsbeeremoval.com/bee-id-chart.php. If you're in the United States, you'll most likely be dealing with honeybees, bumblebees, carpenter bees, or possibly Africanized honey bees. Distinguish between bumblebees and carpenter bees. Expect these two to appear fairly similar at first glance. If you're comparing photos online and believe that you have one or the other, do a little more digging to be sure. Tell the two apart by: Visual clues: Carpenter bees feature a black dot on the top of their thorax (the part where the wings and legs grow from). They also have less hair than a bumblebee. Sociability: Carpenter bees are solitary, while bumblebees tend to swarm. Use their nest to identify them if needed. If you're unable to take a photo (or if your photos don't come out that great), don't worry. Look for their nest. Use that to help narrow down the species. Honeybees' nests are often found within hollow spaces, such as tree trunks, logs, and fence posts. They usually don't use home structures to build their nests but are sometimes found in roofs, attics, and wall cavities if there is access from the outside. Bumblebees typically nest in or near the soil, such as in deserted rodent nests, compost piles, or underneath raised outdoor structures like sheds or porches. Carpenter bees usually burrow into wood to build their nests. Look for bee activity around coin-sized holes in things like eaves, porches, and trimming. Don't worry if you can't identify them. If you can't figure out what type of bee it is, don't beat yourself up about it. Knowing what type it is will help you anticipate how much work will be needed to get rid of them (and thus cost-compare between companies and budget accordingly), but it's not necessary to start the process. Just contact a pest-control company specializing in bees and arrange for an inspection so they can identify them for you. Ask yourself if getting rid of them is necessary. If the bees are only seen outside, consider leaving them alone unless someone is allergic to bees. Remember that they play a major role in the environment by promoting pollination and that honeybees, in particular, have been declining in population over recent years. Also keep in mind that: Although most bees have stingers, they usually only ever use them as a last resort, which means you really have to antagonize them before they sting you. As long as you stay relaxed when they're around, you should be fine. In fact, some bees (like male carpenter bees) don't even have stingers. One exception to this rule may be Africanized honey bees , which are much more likely to turn aggressive and stay that way once they're disturbed. Take care of bees nesting in your home. If you're seeing bees inside the house (or if you've spotted, say, carpenter bees burrowing into wooden portions of your house), consider this to be a situation where it's appropriate to get rid of them. Any damage they may cause to the structure will be minimal in the beginning, but expect the risk and extent of damage to increase over time if left untreated. Carpenter bees will continue to expand their nests throughout wooden structures if left alone. Honeybees create honeycombs. These can become quite heavy and possibly damage surrounding areas. The honey may also attract other animals. Have professionals take care of them. Killing a single bee is relatively easy, but expect to deal with a whole nest of them to be a much more involved and lengthy process. Keep in mind that if it isn't done correctly and thoroughly, you'll most likely end up with a new batch of bees appearing shortly. Also remember: Bees are usually happy to ignore you right up until you start messing with their nest. And though a single bee sting is pretty bearable, you may be faced with dozens, hundreds, or even thousands of the little guys when you attack them at the source. Depending on the type of bee you have, the method for removing them may vary. Professionals may use smoke, pesticides, or other means of extraction for the bees themselves, plus using the second hive to extract honey from the left-behind nest. Removal of the nest itself may also require carpentry work to gain access and repair damage to structures. Contact your local government first. First, determine if the bees' nest is technically on public property instead of your own. If so, contact your local government and report it so they can deal with it. If not, call them anyway, since they may offer free services to have the nest removed, depending on your area. What free services (if any) are available will depend on your area. They may include extraction of both bees and nests or only the bees themselves. They may or may not include repairs to any structural damage. Free services are more likely to be available if the nest is in a natural structure (like a tree) rather than your home or other manmade structure. However, it's still worth calling and finding out for sure about their policy regarding manmade structures on your property. Comparison-shop before going with “free services. ” If your local government does provide free bee removal, don't jump at it immediately. Keep in mind that even though the “free services” offered may technically be free, they won't necessarily cover all the work that needs to be done. Find out exactly what those services cover and then contact private companies on your own to explore your options. This is of particular importance if the nest is located within your home's structure. Gaining access to it may involve cutting into the structure to expose the nest. Free services may not include repairs needed afterwards. If repairs aren't done or are done improperly then new bees might take up residence in the same area. This means it may be cheaper in the long run to hire a private company that will remove the bees, make repairs, and offer a warranty covering future infestations. Call beekeepers before exterminators to remove honeybees. If you're sure that you have honey bees, look up local beekeepers in your area. Have the beekeepers remove the honeybees from your property if possible rather than kill them. Remember that healthy honey bees are in decline, which is unfortunate because they play an integral part in pollinating fruit and vegetable crops. If you aren't able to locate a beekeeper in your area, find a pest control company specializing in bees instead. They may also attempt to remove honeybees before resorting to extermination. Contact bee specialists rather than general pest control companies. If the bees have nested in your home's structure (or any other on your property), expect whomever you may hire to possibly have to cut through walls, floors, and ceilings to gain access. Obviously, this means repair work will have to be done afterwards. For this reason, search for pest control companies that specifically specialize in bees. Bee specialists are more likely to take care of repairs themselves, while a more general pest control company will probably only get rid of the bees. This means you will have to either do the repairs yourself or hire a contractor. Bee specialists are also more likely to offer you a warranty in case bees return to the same area, which may save you more money in the long run. Remove all nests and honeycombs. Make sure that whoever you hire doesn't kill or remove the bees and leave their nest and honeycomb behind. Expect these to attract new bees. Prevent a new problem by making sure that the old one is taken care of thoroughly. Make all necessary repairs immediately. If the company needed to cut into any part of your home's structure to reach the nest and didn't repair the damage themselves, do so immediately. Assume that if one bee colony found this area to be a good place to build a nest, others will, too. Seal off their access to it as soon as possible. Close any other gaps, cracks, or other points of access, too. Remember: if one bee colony set up shop within a structure, others will do the same. Assess the area and identify any points where bees could access it. Seal those points with caulk, insulation foam, or whatever the situation demands. Clear your property of ideal nesting spots. Limit the number of places where bees can build a nest. Remove any unnecessary junk that has accumulated and now offers bees a perfect spot to build a nest. Depending on which types of bees live in your area, also consider: Blocking access to crawl spaces and underneath raised structures like outdoor sheds, porches, or decks. Filling in old rodent dens and other holes in the ground. Putting compost into a container rather than leaving it as an open pile. Removing hollowed trees and logs. | Make sure you’re dealing with bees. Take a photo to determine what type of bee it is. Distinguish between bumblebees and carpenter bees. Use their nest to identify them if needed. Don't worry if you can't identify them. Ask yourself if getting rid of them is necessary. Take care of bees nesting in your home. Have professionals take care of them. Contact your local government first. Comparison-shop before going with “free services. Call beekeepers before exterminators to remove honeybees. Contact bee specialists rather than general pest control companies. Remove all nests and honeycombs. Make all necessary repairs immediately. Clear your property of ideal nesting spots. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-a-Bikini | How to Choose a Bikini | The best way to choose a bikini for your body is to find one you feel great in, but if you don't know where to start, consider your body type for some ideas. For example, if you have an apple-shaped body, try wearing a tankini that shows off your legs. Alternatively, if you are pear shaped, opt for an underwire top that enhances your bust. When it comes to curves, show off what you've got with a string bikini, or create the illusion of a shapelier figure by wearing ruffles instead. | Select a tankini if you are apple shaped. Apple shapes have a larger midsection and thin legs and arms. Tankinis with shirring or shapewear in the stomach can draw attention away from that area. A bottom with high cut sides will show off your legs. Pick a ruffle bikini if you have an athletic shape. Athletic shapes have a straight up and down body without many curves, and adding a ruffle can trick the eye. A bikini with a ruffle on top and bottom will give the illusion of a shapelier figure by adding volume to those areas. Ruffles can also be used on just one piece of a bikini to emphasize only one area. Choose a string bikini if you have an hourglass shape. Hourglass shapes have a small waist with nearly identical bust and hip measurements. A string bikini will accentuate your curves and draw attention to your waist. Many string bikini bottoms have side ties that allow you to adjust the fit. Select an underwire bikini if you are pear shaped. Pear shapes have larger hips with a small waist and bust. An underwire top will enhance your bust and draw the eye up. Pair it with a hipster bikini bottom as they offer more coverage in back while lending balance to your hips. Select light colors to draw attention. Lighter shades can highlight areas, especially when a used with a darker shade. If you are an apple shape and want to highlight your legs, wear a light blue bottom with a navy top. Similarly if you are an hourglass shape and want to highlight your waist, choose a light colored top and bottom. Look to dark colors for concealment. You can draw attention away from specific areas with dark colors. Black is a go to color for this, but any dark color can work. A dark colored top paired with a lighter or patterned bottom will help disguise a large bust area. Choose patterns to balance your figure. Patterns draw the eye and can create symmetry, especially when used with a solid. A small pattern top with a solid bottom can balance your figure if you are pear shaped. Use stripes to your advantage. If you want to give the illusion of longer legs, a vertical striped bottom can help. Drawing attention to your bust and hips with horizontal stripes can make your waist seem smaller. Try embellishments to show off your figure. Whatever part of your body you wish to highlight can be done with embellishments. Jewels, sequins, flowers, and cut outs can all draw attention to specific areas. If you aren't comfortable with a top and bottom with decoration, try it on just one piece and use a solid for the other piece. Choose a top that stays in place. The best way to see whether this is the case? Jump around in the fitting room with your bikini top on. If it slips out of place, digs into you, or feels awkward, it's not the right one for you - it'll do the same when you're moving around in the pool or ocean. Choose a comfortable bottom. The bottom part of the bikini should not only stay in place but also feel snug and not be on its way to giving you a wedgie. Look for a bottom that fits your measurements - you should measure your hips at their fullest point, which may not be your hipbones! Use a mirror to determine the largest part of your hips, then translate your measurements to bikini sizes. For example, in the U.S., a hip measurement of ⁄ 38 inch (2.5 cm) would be a size small. Buy your bikini in a store if possible. Trying on a bikini before you buy it will give you a chance to try multiple styles. This will also help ensure you have the correct fit. If you order your bikini online, check the site for a sizing chart and read reviews regarding fit. Make sure you read and understand the site's return policy. Try on mix and match bikinis. Many retailers offer consumers the option to personalize their bikinis. This will allow you to choose a top and bottom that you are comfortable wearing and fit you best. Mixing and matching is especially helpful if you need a different size for the top and bottom. Decide which material is best for you. There are advantages and disadvantages to the most common materials used in swimsuits. When choosing one, think of the activities you will be participating in as well as swimsuit longevity. For a strong material that is lightweight, choose nylon, Lycra, or neoprene. These are often mixed with other materials and have been treated to withstand the elements. If you want a suit to withstand chlorine and fading, choose Polyester. It is usually mixed with other materials to enhance the swimsuit's qualities. This is an extremely common material for swimsuits. For competitive suits, choose Polybutylene Terephthalate (PBT) for its natural stretching ability. This material also stands up to chlorine exposure. | Select a tankini if you are apple shaped. Pick a ruffle bikini if you have an athletic shape. Choose a string bikini if you have an hourglass shape. Select an underwire bikini if you are pear shaped. Select light colors to draw attention. Look to dark colors for concealment. Choose patterns to balance your figure. Try embellishments to show off your figure. Choose a top that stays in place. Choose a comfortable bottom. Buy your bikini in a store if possible. Try on mix and match bikinis. Decide which material is best for you. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Less-Naive | How to Be Less Naive | To be less naïve, be careful about sharing too much personal information with new acquaintances until they've proven themselves trustworthy. Additionally, be aware of people who ask a lot about your personal and financial situation since they may have ulterior motives for wanting to know you. You should also be wary of people who clear their throat a lot or fidget, because those can be signs of dishonesty. However, learn to trust your instincts and don't hesitate to distance yourself from someone who seems fishy or dishonest. | Meet people from different backgrounds. Sometimes, people are perceived as being naive because their worldview is narrow or they have only limited life experience. Getting out and interacting with people who live distinctively separate lives can be a learning experience that helps you understand the world with greater nuance. You might be naive because you grew up well-off and are blind to those less fortunate than you. Having friends from different socioeconomic backgrounds can help you to appreciate how fortunate you are. Individuals who grow up in small towns often are naive to urban lifestyles. Visiting a city and connecting with people who live there can empower you and bring you knowledge about worlds different than your own. Friendships between people from different cultures helps you to develop empathy for all human beings and respect other cultures' beliefs and practices. You could try joining a cultural club in your community, or learning a foreign language. If you know people from other cultures and walks of life, ask them questions (politely, of course) about their customs, views, and experiences. You can only learn as much as you're willing to listen. Engage in novel experiences. Some naive people are that way because they were raised in very sheltered environments. Maybe your parents didn't allow you to go to parties or hang out with other kids your age, so you missed out on certain experiences. Make up for lost time by doing all the exciting activities you can think of to change your perspective of the world and the people in it. Go skydiving, hike/camp through a national park, write a novel, or learn a new language. Novel experiences stimulate new brain cell growth. So, not only are you expanding your behavioral repertoire and collecting stories to tell, but you're also benefiting brain health. Go beyond your comfort zone. When you have always done things a certain way, it can be challenging to suddenly change the direction of your sails. However, you will never know exactly how talented you are or what you are capable of if you don't break out of the box you've been in. Don't settle for an ordinary life just because you're comfortable. Strive for the extraordinary in all your endeavors. You will become more knowledgeable about the world in the process. Stepping out of your comfort zone may help you to reinvigorate your life and get in touch with a part of yourself that, up until now, lies dormant. Claiming more new and challenging opportunities results in greater productivity, enhanced creativity and satisfaction. Travel more. Whether it's to the next state over or around the globe, visiting new places makes the world smaller. You instantly shed your "green" skin and become more worldly with travel. Naive individuals may have underdeveloped social skills, making them less likely to get out there. However, by traveling the world, you can acquire social skills and transform the way you view and interact with others locally and globally. Solo travel, for example, boosts your natural instincts and challenges you so that when you return home, making new friends, eating alone in a restaurant, or seeing a movie on your own are all much easier. Flying solo also enhances your confidence and removes the focus of a companion, increasing your chances of meeting new people and participating in new experiences. Just make sure you commit to being open to new experiences. "Culture shock" upon encountering a culture that's different to what you're used to is very real, and may be even more significant if you're a fairly naive person. Accept that when you travel, you will encounter experiences and people who are very different, and that you may even have times when your experiences make you uncomfortable. That's all part of learning about life in other places. Volunteer. Just as connecting with others from different backgrounds gives you a new perspective on life, so does helping out those in need. In addition, to helping you stomp out your inexperienced self, your efforts will also solve problems and improve communities. Believe it or not, volunteering is even good for your health. It has positive effects on physical and mental health, including giving people an increased sense of purpose and fulfillment. Consider what you have to offer. Many volunteering opportunities require no special skills, but if you're great with computers or a "people person," you may find opportunities that suit your skills and personality. Be more alert. Once you get out there more, you will realize that, no matter where you are, there are both good people and bad people. Be aware of the kind of people around you. Determine if people are trustworthy. Watch new acquaintances closely before deciding if they are loyal. Give people the benefit of the doubt until they prove themselves untrustworthy. If you have a tendency to get too close too fast, bring someone along for initial meetings with new acquaintances so that you can get a second opinion before beginning new friendships or relationships. The human brain takes just a few milliseconds to decide whether a person is trustworthy, so don't get frustrated with yourself if you can't help but quickly believe the best of people. Being less naive doesn't mean you have to become a cynic. Identify the signs of dishonesty. Meeting someone new can be fresh and exciting, but you need to watch for certain indicators that a person may not have your best interests at heart. Not all liars look away while telling a lie. The most experienced liars can hold eye contact even when being deceitful. Fidgeting may be a sign of dishonesty, especially if it only occurs during specific incidents or stories rather than being a general habit. Other body language that indicates dishonesty includes frequent throat clearing or swallowing, a hand near the base of the neck (such as toying with a necklace), learning backward, or a lack of "emphatic gestures" such as pointing or head tilting. No one sign is proof that the person is lying, and many of these behaviors could just be a sign of nervousness. However, if you see several of them at once, it may be a sign of dishonesty. Be wary of new people who are extremely interested in you. Individuals trying to learn too much about you too quickly are a red flag, particularly if they are concerned about your personal life, work, or financial situation. These people may have an underlying motivation to be friends with you. Listen more, talk less. Engage in surface-level conversations until you feel more comfortable with new acquaintances. Listen more to what the other person says rather than sharing so much about yourself. Plus, this kind of behavior with new friends can be a perk since most people enjoy talking about themselves and are often thrilled to have a willing listener. Keep your secrets close to your vest. Naive people often trust strangers too quickly. Don't let anybody know about your personal life and business except for your family and a trusted best friend or partner. Avoid over-sharing. Refrain from talking impulsively. If you are a person who rarely thinks before you speak, take action to avoid saying things you might regret. Pause and ponder your words before speaking. Learn to read people. What people say and what they feel deep inside are usually two different things. Words make up only 7 percent of our communication. 55 percent is body language and 30 percent is tone of voice. Is your acquaintance leaning away from you versus toward you? This could reveal that this person does not like you. Are your acquaintance's hands tucked under legs, in pockets or behind the person's back? This could reveal that the person is not interested in the conversation or interaction. Check for questionable body language. An open-arm posture facing you square on is indicative of someone who is comfortable with what's going on. Is your acquaintance grinding teeth or pursing lips? These are indicators that the person may be feeling tension in the current situation. If deep down, you think someone is fishy or dishonest, distance yourself from this person immediately. Learn to trust your instincts. Recognize that you can't "fix" people. Sometimes, people may be called naive if they believe that they can "fix" others by helping them, loving them, believing in them, etc. This is particularly common in romantic relationships. To become less naive, acknowledge that each person is responsible for his or her own behavior and actions. For example, a common sign of an unhealthy romantic relationship is that a person believes that s/he can "love" the other person into giving up unhealthy behaviors or becoming a better person. While you can certainly support your partner, you can't "fix" someone by loving. Have confidence in yourself. Even if you are naive, you still have something unique to offer the world. In fact, naive people may take more risks and be more productive than more experienced people who are always second-guessing themselves. Learn to accept how you are naturally. Give yourself time. You will not change from being naive overnight. Allow yourself a period of time to adjust to being more discerning of those around you. Go on a sabbatical from starting any new relationships for awhile until you feel more capable of judging the intentions of others. | Meet people from different backgrounds. Engage in novel experiences. Go beyond your comfort zone. Travel more. Volunteer. Be more alert. Determine if people are trustworthy. Identify the signs of dishonesty. Listen more, talk less. Learn to read people. Recognize that you can't "fix" people. Have confidence in yourself. Give yourself time. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Find-Money | How to Find Money | One easy way to find money is by scanning the floor near checkout counters and checking coin slots in vending machines for dropped or forgotten change. You can also look inside washers and dryers at public laundromats for spare change and bills that were left behind. Next, take a look around public restrooms and underneath bleachers at sports stadiums, since people often drop money in these places. Then, check under your couch cushions and even underneath the couch itself for any lost money! | Look on the floor near the checkout counter. One of the most reliable places to find a little bit of change is on the floor near the checkout of any restaurant, convenience store, or other place you have to walk up to a window and pay. People will often drop a few coins and not think twice about picking them up. Keep an eye out when you're at the window. Lots of people pay with cards now, but the bank still always deals with money. Instead of looking at the bank teller, check out the ground under the slow where you enter the money. Check coin slots in vending machines. It happens to everyone, you pay with a dollar and forget your change in the slot. Make a habit of regularly checking out the coin return on vending machines to see if someone made the same mistake. You can also check under vending machines or anywhere around the area a coin may roll out of site. Press the coin return a couple times, just to see if anything comes loose. Sometimes, someone will have loaded some money in without buying anything. The same goes for arcade games, as well. Check out the laundromat. Look in the bottom of the washer and dryer at public laundromats. Often, people will leave a little money in their pockets, and it'll come loose while they're doing a wash. You can make quite a lot of spare change doing a run through the laundromat. Check the lint trap as well, for paper money that might have gotten stuck. Even if it looks torn up, you can still often use it. This can also be a warning to you, though, make sure you clean out your pockets before doing a load of laundry. Check the floor in the bathroom. Sometimes someone will drop their wallet or purse in the bathroom and loose some spare change or a couple of bills. Of course it's not a lot, but it's something. Don't be afraid of germs, the coin has more germs than the floor of the bathroom you're in. Check under the bleachers at sports stadiums. Everything is more expensive at a big sports game, and almost everyone pays in cash. Because you're outside and the wind is blowing and sometimes people are drinking, a lot of that cash gets dropped. But it doesn't need to be lost forever. Check out the bottom of fences. While people aren't likely to drop money by fences, if a couple of bills get blown around, fences are great for trapping that money. When you're walking around town, keep an eye out for bills that might have been blown away, and caught by a chain-link fence. Look under couch cushions. Couch cushions are a classic money trap. When people lean back into a soft couch, the money just comes tumbling out and into the couch. Sometimes, you can find bills, but mostly you'll find lots and lots of change. And also probably some crumbs. Check under the couch as well. Sometimes, people will drop some and it'll fall all the way through the couch to underneath. Collect cans and return them. In many states, a soda can can be returned to a recycling pick-up station, and exchanged for a certain amount. You just have to find a grocery store or convenience store that has the soda can machine. Once you find one, you'll give the machine all your soda cans. Then it will reward you with a receipt which you then bring to a cashier or guest services for the money. Wait until recycling day and do an early morning run through the neighborhood, grabbing all the cans from the "trash." Somebody might as well make money for it. You can also walk around a lake, hiking path, sidewalk, or anywhere else and look for soda cans. Keep an eye out. When you're walking down the street on your way to school, work, a date, a concert, or when in a parking lot. Keep glancing at the street. Look for shiny stuff and only pick it up if it looks half-way promising. Make sure to keep a look out for green colored stuff amongst the beige sidewalk too, it's okay if you find a leaf- you can add it to your collection." Always report large sums of money. Some people with large stacks of cash make notes of the serial number combinations on the bills, in case some is stolen. If you find a large sum of money, you should always contact a nearby police station. If the owner has reported that their money has gotten lost, you could get into serious trouble. Always make sure to have the serial number read for you before you hand the bill out. If a large sum of money is found and an owner has reported it, but does not have the serial numbers at hand, then at least let them tell you the amount in forehand that is in question. If property is never claimed, or can be traced to no rightful owner, then the money is rightfully yours. Understand what unclaimed money is. Sometimes, you'll be owed a sum of money by the government, which doesn't try very hard to make you aware of your right to collect. As many as a billion dollars a year go unclaimed as a result of pensions, tax returns, investments, and other reasons. If you think you may be owed some money, you can learn where to look and how to collect it. Technically, this is money that is already yours. You can't claim money on the behalf of someone else who doesn't collect it, unless you're named as a beneficiary. Each type of money will be different, however, and vary state-to-state. You can search by the state you live in, to find unclaimed money, by clicking here. Check to see if you're owed pension. If you were laid off, or your company went out of business, you might be owed a pension that you're unaware of. Unclaimed pensions can be searched via the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation (PBGC) website, by searching for the name of the employer, or the name of the business. Make sure you get your tax refund. In some cases, you may have had tax money withheld from your paychecks, but were not required to pay taxes because of your particular bracket. In this case, you're owed a tax refund that you may not be aware of. You can check the status of your return from any year, and find all the proper forms and instructions on the Forms and Publications page of the IRS website. You can also call 800-TAX-FORM (800-829-3676). Check about getting a mortgage refund. If at any point you've held a Federal Housing Authority (FHA) insured mortgage, you may be eligible for a refund from the Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD). To find out if you're owed a refund, you can contact the department at (800) 697-6967, or email at [email protected]. It's also possible to search for your case number and name on their website directly. Be wary of scams. A common Internet-era scam is to pretend to be some kind of government agency issuing refunds or unclaimed returns, in exchange for a particular "tax" or other fee. If you're ever asked to pay feeds up front to earn your "winnings" for any type of unclaimed return, this is a scam. Federal employees and agencies never require up-front payments for owed money. Never pay for a prize, including a "lottery" or a fake debt. Never wire money to anyone you don't know. | Look on the floor near the checkout counter. Check coin slots in vending machines. Check out the laundromat. Check the floor in the bathroom. Check under the bleachers at sports stadiums. Check out the bottom of fences. Look under couch cushions. Collect cans and return them. Keep an eye out. Always report large sums of money. Understand what unclaimed money is. Check to see if you're owed pension. Make sure you get your tax refund. Check about getting a mortgage refund. Be wary of scams. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Birth-Control-Pills | How to Use Birth Control Pills | If you want to use birth control pills, first talk to your healthcare provider about your options since there are different pills available. They'll be able to help you choose a safe and effective option based on your needs, health, and current medications. For example, you may want to consider a combination pill if you're okay with taking estrogen and want a more effective birth control option. On the other hand, you may want to go with a minipill if you're older than 35 or have high blood pressure. Since different pills have different requirements for when you have to take them, remember to always take the medication as instructed to ensure they're as effective as possible. You should also take the pill at the same time every day to stay well protected. | Talk with your healthcare provider about your options. There are many safe and effective birth control options available for women. Birth control pills are widely available and can be inexpensive, making them an attractive option; however, depending on your needs, health, and pre-existing medical conditions, certain choices may be better for you, so it's important to discuss your birth control needs with your healthcare provider. There are two main kinds of birth control pills. Combination pills use the hormones estrogen and progestin. Another type, the minipill, uses only progestin. Combination pills also come in two types. Monophasic birth control pills all contain the same amount of estrogen and progestin. Multiphasic pills vary the amount of hormones in certain phases. Combination pills also come as “low-dose” pills. These pills contain less than 20 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol (normal birth control pills contain 50 micrograms or less). Women who are sensitive to hormones, especially estrogen, may benefit from the low-dose pill; however, the low-dose pill may also cause more bleeding between periods. Consider your health. Combination pills are commonly prescribed, but they are not always appropriate. Your doctor and you will make the final decision. If any of the following apply to you, your doctor may recommend that you do not use combination pills: You are breastfeeding You are older than age 35 and a smoker You have high blood pressure You have a history of pulmonary embolism or deep vein thrombosis or you have an inherited condition that increases your risk of clots You have a history of breast cancer You have a history or heart disease or stroke You have medical complications related to diabetes You have liver or kidney disease You have unexplained uterine or vaginal bleeding You have a history of blood clots You have lupus You have migraine with aura You will be having major surgery that immobilizes you for a prolonged period of time You take St. John's wort, anticonvulsants, or anti-tuberculous medications Your doctor may recommend that you do not use the minipill if you have breast cancer, unexplained uterine or vaginal bleeding, or take anticonvulsant or anti-tuberculous medications. Consider the benefits of combination pills. Combination pills offer a variety of benefits that make them an attractive choice for many women; however, they also carry some risks. When considering which type of pill is right for you, you may want to take both of these into account. Benefits of the combination pill include: Highly effective prevention of pregnancy when used correctly (99%) About eight in 100 women will become pregnant during the first year of using this pill due to incorrect usage Reduces menstrual cramping May protect against pelvic inflammatory disease Decreases your risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers Can reduce the frequency and heaviness of menstrual cycles Improves acne May help improve bone mineral density Reduces androgen production caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) Protects against ectopic pregnancy Reduces the risk of iron deficiency anemia due to heavy menstrual flow Protects against breast and ovarian cysts Consider the risks of combination pills. While combination pills offer many benefits, there are also risks that you should discuss with your doctor. Most of these risks are rare, but can be serious. Many of these risks increase if you have certain medical conditions or if you smoke. Risks of using combination birth control pills include: No protection against sexually transmitted infections or HIV (you must use condoms to protect against these) Increased risk of heart attack and stroke Increased risk of blood clots Increased risk of developing high blood pressure Increased risk of developing liver tumors, gallstones, or jaundice Increased breast tenderness Nausea or vomiting Weight gain Headache Depression Irregular bleeding Consider the benefits of the minipill. Minipills, or progestin-only pills, have fewer benefits than combination pills; however, they also tend to have fewer risks. You should talk to your doctor to determine whether the minipill is a good choice for you. Benefits of the minipill include: May be able to be taken even if you have certain health problems, such as blood clots, high blood pressure, migraines, or risk of heart disease Can be used during breastfeeding Reduces menstrual cramping May make periods lighter May help protect against pelvic inflammatory disease Consider the risks of the minipill. While the risks of the minipill are fewer than for combination pills, it is still possible to experience rare but severe side effects from using it. Speak with your doctor to consider whether the benefits outweigh the risks for you. Risks of using the minipill include: No protection against sexually transmitted infections or HIV (you must use condoms to protect against these) Potentially less effective than combination pills Backup birth control is required if you forget to take the pill within three hours of the same time every day Bleeding between periods (more common with the minipill than with combination pills) Increased breast tenderness Nausea and vomiting Increased risk of ovarian cysts Slightly increased risk of ectopic pregnancy vs. combination pills Possible increase in acne Weight gain Depression Unusual hair growth Headache Think about your menstruation preferences. If you are healthy enough for birth control pills, you have a few options. If you choose combination birth control pills — which many women do — you can choose to reduce the frequency of your menstrual cycles if you wish. Continuous-dose pills, also called extended-cycle pills, reduce the number of menstrual cycles you have each year. Women may have as few as four periods a year. Some women may stop having a period altogether. Conventional pills do not reduce the number of menstrual cycles. You'll still have a period every month. Know that some medications can interfere with the pill. Your doctor can help you determine whether you are taking any medications or supplements that will interfere with your birth control's effectiveness. Medications that are known to interfere with the effectiveness of hormonal birth control include: Several antibiotics, including penicillin and tetracycline Certain seizure medications Certain drugs used to treat HIV Anti-tuberculosis drugs St. John's wort Tell your doctor about any medications that you take. Before you decide on a birth control pill, tell your doctor about any medications and supplements that you're currently taking. Some medications interfere with the effectiveness of birth control pills, and many others may cause negative interactions and side effects. Make sure to mention if you take any of the following: Thyroid hormone drugs Benzodiazepines (such as diazepam) Prednisone drugs Tricyclic antidepressants Beta-blockers Anti-coagulants (“blood thinners” like warfarin) Insulin Follow your doctor’s directions. You should always follow the directions given to you by your physician. Different pills have different requirements. Some need to be started at a special time and some need to be taken at specific times. Start by reading the instructions and then follow the next steps. If you do not take the birth control pills as directed, they may not be effective and you may become pregnant. Do not smoke. Smoking makes taking the pill extremely dangerous to your health. Together they put you at a very high risk for blood clots, which can easily kill you. Women who are older than age 35 and smoke should not use any type of combination birth control pill. If you're smoking, stop. Even occasional, social smoking can be dangerous. If you're not smoking, don't start. Start taking the pill. Depending on the type of birth control pill you have been prescribed, you may need to start taking your pill at a certain time. Always ask your prescribing doctor how you should start your pill. In general, you have a few options: You can start combination pills on the first day of your period. You can also start combination pills on the Sunday after your menstrual period starts. If you have just given birth vaginally, you must wait three weeks to start the combination pill. You should wait at least six weeks after giving birth before starting the combination pill if you have an increased risk of blood clots or you are nursing. You can start taking the combination pill right away if you have had an abortion or miscarriage. Always start your new pack of combination pills on the same day of the week as you started the first pack. You can start the minipill (progestin-only) pill at any time. If you plan to have vaginal intercourse during the first 48 hours of using the minipill, use a backup form of contraception. You must take the minipill at the same time each day. Choose a time when you will remember to take your pill, such as when you get up or right before you go to bed. You can start the minipill right away if you have had an abortion or miscarriage. Know that it is still possible to become pregnant in certain cases. If you start taking your birth control pills on the first day of your period, it is effective at protecting against pregnancy immediately. If you started your pill on a different day, there is a chance that you could become pregnant if you have unprotected sexual intercourse. As such, it is recommended you use backup birth control for the duration of your first pill pack. If you begin your regimen at any other time it can take up to a full month for the pill to become fully effective. To avoid pregnancy, if you did not start your pill within 5 days of the start of your period, you should use an alternate form of contraception for a full month, or one full cycle of pills. Take the pill at the same time every day. You can take it at morning or at night, but most women find that they remember them better at night because their nightly routine for going to bed doesn't vary as much as their morning routines. If you fail to take your pill at the same time every day, you may experience spotting and you will not be as well protected. If you use the minipill, you must take each pill within three hours of the same time every day. If you do not, you must use a backup form of contraception for the next 48 hours. For example, if you usually take your pill at 8 PM but you forgot until midnight, you should take the pill but also use a backup form of contraception, such as condoms, for the next 48 hours. Setting an alarm on your cellphone to take your pills or putting them next to your toothbrush can help you remember if you tend to be forgetful. There are even mobile apps that will remind you to take your pill, such as myPill and Lady Pill Reminder. Take the pill about half an hour after eating to help you avoid nausea. Be aware of what type of pill you’re using. Combination pills come in several different “phases.” For some of them, the level of hormones in the pills changes throughout the month. If you are taking any pill other than a monophasic pill, you may have extra instructions on what to do if you miss a pill that are specific to the pill you're taking. Monophasic pills contain the same level of estrogen and progestin in all of the pills. If you forget to take one of these pills, take it as soon as you remember. Take the next day's pill at your regular time. Examples include Ortho-cyclen, Seasonale, and Yaz. Biphasic pills change the level of estrogen and progestin once during the month. Examples include Kariva and Mircette Ortho-Novum 10/11. Triphasic pills change the level of estrogen and progestin every seven days during the first three weeks of pills. Examples include Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Enpresse, and Cyclessa. Quadriphasic pills change the level of estrogen and progestin four times during the cycle. Natazia is the only quadriphasic pill prescribed in the US. Take combination pills according to your chosen regimen. Combination pills can be conventional or continuous-dosage (or extended-dosage). Depending on what type of combination pill you've chosen, you may take different pills at different times of the month. Refer to your instructions. For 21-day combination pills, you will take one pill at the same time every day for 21 days. For seven days, you will not take pills. You will generally have your period at this time. After seven days you start a new pack of pills. For 28-day combination pills, you will take one pill at the same time every day for 28 days. Some of these pills do not contain hormones, or may only contain estrogen. You will experience bleeding for four to seven days while you are taking these pills. For three-month combination pills, you will take one pill at the same time every day for 84 days. Then you will take one pill at the same time every day for seven days that does not contain hormones, or only contains estrogen. You will experience bleeding for these seven days every three months. For one-year combination pills, you will take one pill at the same time every day for the full year. You may have fewer periods, or may even stop menstruating altogether. Let your body adjust to the hormones. Remember that you may experience symptoms of pregnancy during the first month as your body adjusts to hormones (swelling breasts, sensitive nipples, spotting, nausea). Certain types of birth control pills may also cause you to stop having periods, so make sure you and your doctor are clear about which one you're on so you know what to look for. If you're concerned that you may be pregnant, you can use a home pregnancy test. They are accurate even while you are taking birth control pills. Watch out for spotting. Watch for spotting or breakthrough bleeding (bleeding in between periods) if you are taking pills that are designed to prevent you from having periods every month. Even pills that allow you to have periods can still sometimes lead to spotting. This is normal. It takes a while for your body to adjust to the new schedule and the spotting typically goes away within three months, but may take as long as six months. Spotting or “breakthrough bleeding” is more common with low-dose combination pills. Bleeding is also more common if you miss a day or if you do not take the pills at the same time every day. Make sure you refill in time. You don't want to run out of pills, so make sure to schedule an appointment with your doctor before you need a refill. You should generally schedule an appointment when you have two packs of pills left on your prescription. Try different birth control if the first one doesn't work for you. Don't be afraid to try different brands or different birth control methods. Talk to your doctor about taking a different brand of pill if you are bothered by symptoms of premenstrual syndrome or side effects of the particular pill you're on. There are many birth control methods other than the pill, many of which are easier to deal with. Other hormonal forms of birth control include combined estrogen and progestin patches and the vaginal ring. Other long-lasting, highly effective birth control methods include intrauterine devices (IUDs), contraceptive implants, and contraceptive injections. Keep an eye out for negative reactions to the medication. Stop taking the pills if you experience jaundice, abdominal pain, chest pain, leg pain, severe headaches or eye problems. Be especially alert for problems if you smoke. It's probably best if you quit smoking while taking birth control pills. Doing both significantly increases the chances of health complications, like blood clots. Know when to see a doctor. Birth control pills do present some risks. If you encounter any of the following, contact your doctor as soon as possible: Severe, consistent headaches Change or loss of vision Aura (seeing bright, flashy lines) Numbness Severe chest pain Trouble breathing Coughing up blood Dizziness or fainting Severe pain in the calf or thigh Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice) Try not to ever miss pills, but compensate if you do. When you forget a pill, take the pill as soon as you remember and take the next pill at the regular time. Certain combination pills, especially multiphasic pills, may have additional instructions that you should follow. For most pills, if you don't remember until the next day, you should take two pills on that day. If you forget your pill for two days, take two pills on the first day you remember and two pills on the next day. If you forget a pill at any time during your cycle, you should use a backup form of contraception (such as condoms) until you finish the pill pack. If you forgot a pill during the first week of a pack, you may need to use emergency contraception to prevent pregnancy. If you take progestin-only pills (instead of the more common combination pill), it is extremely important to take it at the same time every day. Even a few hours off can allow you to become pregnant. Contact your doctor. If you are not sure what to do if you have missed a pill, or if you want to know whether you need to consider emergency contraception, contact your doctor. Tell them exactly what happened (how many pills you forgot, for how many days, etc.). How you treat missing or forgetting a pill varies depending on the pill you're taking, so contacting your doctor is always a good idea. Consider alternative options when you're sick. Use another method of birth control if you are sick and experiencing vomiting or diarrhea because the pill may not stay in your digestive tract long enough to be effective. If you vomit or have diarrhea within four hours of taking a pill, it is likely to be ineffective at protecting from pregnancy. Use a backup form of birth control just as you would for a missed pill. If you suffer from an eating disorder and use vomiting or laxatives, an oral contraceptive is unlikely to be effective. Use a backup form of contraception. Consult with your doctor or a mental health professional for help. | Talk with your healthcare provider about your options. Consider your health. Consider the benefits of combination pills. Consider the risks of combination pills. Consider the benefits of the minipill. Consider the risks of the minipill. Think about your menstruation preferences. Know that some medications can interfere with the pill. Tell your doctor about any medications that you take. Follow your doctor’s directions. Do not smoke. Start taking the pill. Know that it is still possible to become pregnant in certain cases. Take the pill at the same time every day. Be aware of what type of pill you’re using. Take combination pills according to your chosen regimen. Let your body adjust to the hormones. Watch out for spotting. Make sure you refill in time. Try different birth control if the first one doesn't work for you. Keep an eye out for negative reactions to the medication. Know when to see a doctor. Try not to ever miss pills, but compensate if you do. Contact your doctor. Consider alternative options when you're sick. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Radiology-Technician | How to Become a Radiology Technician | If you want to become a radiology technician, consider whether you're capable of working with people in extreme pain. Additionally, make sure you can manage long hours, which is common for radiologists. You'll also need to be physically fit in order to lift and move patients. To get the necessary education, obtain a bachelor's or associate degree in radiology before taking the mandatory exams to get certified. | Get a high school diploma or a GED. You will need to pursue a higher education to become a radiologic technologist, so you will have to start here if you do not have this degree already. If you're still in high school and know you want to be a radiologic technologist, then you can try to take courses that can help you succeed in the field. Here are some courses you can focus on in high school: Anatomy Biology Chemistry Mathematics Physics Get a higher education. You can get the education you need in three ways: through a bachelor's degree, an associate degree, or a certificate program. You may find a B.A. program that offers a major in Radiologic Technology, though the most common path for radiologic technologists is getting an associate degree from an accredited community college or a private (for-profit) institution. The certificate program typically lasts 21-24 months and is perfect for individuals who already have experience in radiology technology. Whatever higher educational path you take, you will study the following subjects: Anatomy and physiology Patient care and management Equipment operation Radiographic procedures Radiation protection Image production Clinical practice Medical terminology Get the training. While you're getting your education, you will most likely have to get some hands-on training to learn the ropes of the career. Just make sure to take a program that is certified by The Joint Review Committee on Education in Radiologic Technology (JRCERT). You may have to take coding and medical office courses as well as to learn how to work with actual patients. Once you get your training, here are some of the things you will learn to do: Operate x-ray equipment. Organize, process and analyze medical images. Acquire and calculate accurate mathematical measurements. Perform quality control. Consider specializing. Specializing in a specific field of radiologic technology will give you a leg up in interviews and will make you a desirable candidate. You can specialize during your training or after you've gone on the job. Specialization requires more training and the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) certification in your field. Here are some fields that you can specialize in : Mammography Computer tomography (CT) Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Cellular imaging Medical sonography Medical imaging Radiography Pass the mandatory exams to become certified. To become a certified technologist, a student may be required to successfully pass the exams, as well as meet the Technical Standards and Essential Functions (TSEF). The exam may be given by your individual state or by the AART. It tests the following skills: Observation skills. The student must demonstrate the ability to assess and comprehend the diagnosis. Communication skills. The student must learn verbal, non-verbal and written formats. Motor skills. The student must execute basic movements to lift and move immobile patients. Intellectual skills. The student must be able to make decisions, interpret, collect and integrate information. Get licensed. Most states require individuals to secure a license along with their certification. You should look into the requirements of your state, since they differ; some states simply use the ARRT exams for licensing, but others may require additional work to be done. Contact your state's health board for more information on what you need to do to become a radiology technician in your state. Get on-the-job training to prepare for employment. Internships are great for getting training in a field. An internship will allow you to receive first-hand knowledge of the daily routines. This may also be more feasible if you're having a hard time finding full-time employment at first. Submit employment applications and get hired. Read the job description and posting thoroughly before completing an application. Make sure that you meet the necessary qualifications before you apply for the position. After getting hired, enjoy the employment benefit package. Go online to reputable websites such as the American Society of Radiologic Technologists (ASRT) site to see what opportunities are out there. Answer all questions with clear and precise information using buzz words. Buzz words are the words the human resources department will initially scan for when checking an application. If requested, submit all credentials such as a transcript, certification and references. Make a copy of paperwork for your file before submitting. The benefits packages may include: a pension plan, tuition reimbursement, paid vacation, holidays and sick days and insurance coverage. Join a professional organization to stay current on innovations in the field. Professional organizations keep members informed of new techniques, procedures, legislative acts, new licensure requirements and updates on conferences and continuing education programs. These organizations will also help you network and meet other people in your field who could help you find future work. Continue to develop your skills. If you want to be the best radiologic technologist that you can be, then you can continue to develop the skills you need to excel at your job. Here are the some of the qualities that you should posses and improve: Being detail-orientied. You have to follow the exact instructions you need to get the correct images that will help to diagnose and treat your patients. Science and mathematical skills. You must deepen your understanding of physiology, anatomy, and other sciences. Technical skills. You must have a deep understanding of how to operate the complex machinery at your disposal. Maintain your certified status. If you want to maintain your ARRT certified status, then you'll need to get 24 hours of continuing education every two years. This will help you brush up on your skills, learn new techniques, and to stay current in your field. Train entry-level technicians. As you become more experienced in your career, you may be asked to train or even to manage entry-level technologists. Make sure you know how to educate and manage others in a professional and helpful manner. Develop your interpersonal skills. Your job will require you to work closely with patients, many of whom will be under incredible stress or in extreme pain. They will need you to calm them down and to help them relax as you do your job. As you grow in your career, you will need to master small talk as well as the ability to make patients feel as calm and comfortable as possible. They will undoubtedly be nervous and they may ask you what you see on the machines. However, you cannot diagnose patients yourself or tell them what you see; you may notice a large tumor, but you must not show distress and keep telling the patients that only the doctors can diagnose the problems and that your job is just to operate the machine. Keep your stamina up. You will need both physical and mental stamina to succeed at your job. Though the average work week for a radiology technician is 40 hours a week, your job may require you to work evenings, weekends, or to take on other on-call work, especially when you're starting out. You will need to stay physically strong because you may have to lift and move patients, and you will have to stay mentally tough because the job can get a bit repetitive and can also be emotionally draining, as working with potentially sick patients may take a toll on you. Though the job can be a bit mentally and physically draining, at the end of the day, you should feel proud that you're helping patients diagnose their problems and to get on the road to recovery. Advance in your career. Though the position of radiologic technologist has less opportunities for clinical advancement, if you do want to advance, then you can move into several other fields that can offer a change of pace and in some cases, a higher salary. Here are the most common fields that experienced radiology technicians can enter into: Education Sales Consulting Industry | Get a high school diploma or a GED. Get a higher education. Get the training. Consider specializing. Pass the mandatory exams to become certified. Get licensed. Get on-the-job training to prepare for employment. Submit employment applications and get hired. Join a professional organization to stay current on innovations in the field. Continue to develop your skills. Maintain your certified status. Train entry-level technicians. Develop your interpersonal skills. Keep your stamina up. Advance in your career. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Business-Memo | How to Write a Business Memo | To write a memo, start by placing the word 'Memorandum' at the top of a page. Follow this up with a header that includes TO:, FROM:, DATE:, and SUBJECT: lines. When you're ready to write, compose an intro paragraph stating the purpose of the memo, then add between 2 to 4 paragraphs of related information. If necessary, you can break up the text with bullet points or subheadings. To finish your letter, write a closing paragraph that tells readers if they need to take further action. | Avoid language that is too casual. Generally speaking, your language should be straightforward and simple, yet professional. You should avoid taking too conversational of a tone in your memo. For example, avoid writing things like “Hey guys! TGIF, am I right? Anyway, I wanted to tell you about an important business matter.” Instead, get right to the point: “I'm writing to provide everyone with a progress report for Project Z”. Avoid using emotional language. It's also best to try to take a neutral tone when you write and avoid using emotionally-charged language. Do your best to refer to facts and evidence to support your claims. For example, avoid claims like “I think we'll all be so much happier if we're allowed to dress casually on Friday.” Instead, research to see if there are any studies on whether office morale increases when employees are allowed more autonomy in their choice of attire, and cite that in your memo. Use signal phrases. When you are about to cite evidence or refer to a source, be sure to use language which lets the reader know what you're doing. For example, try the following: “According to our findings,...” or “Research completed by the EPA has indicated that...”. Choose an appropriate font style and size. Your memo should be easy to read, so you should avoid using excessively small font—11 or 12 point is standard. You should also choose a simple font style such as Times New Roman. This isn't the time to play around with “fun” fonts like Comic Sans (you'll be made fun of if you choose this one!). Use standard margins for your memo. 1-inch margins are typical for business memos, though some word-processing programs may include pre-formatted memo templates with slightly wider margins (for example, 1.25 inches). Single-space your document. Business memos are usually not double-spaced. In order to keep the page number down, consider single-spacing, but leave spaces between individual paragraphs or sections. There is usually no need for you to indent your paragraphs. Decide if a memo needs to be sent. If you need to update several people on your team about an important business matter, then sending a memo is an excellent idea. You may even want to send one if you're communicating with just one person if, for example, you want or need to have a written record of your correspondence. However, in some cases, it may be more efficient to just talk directly to those you need to. Also, some information may be too sensitive to send out in a memo. Identify your purpose for writing. Depending upon your specific purpose, the content and organization of your memo may change. Most types of memos are written for the following reasons: To propose an idea or solution. For example, if you think you know how the scheduling problems for overtime can be worked out, you may want to write up your ideas in a memo, and send it to your superior(s). To issue an order. For example, sending a memo can be an efficient way to assign responsibilities for an upcoming conference that your department is hosting. To provide a report. You may also want to send a memo in order to update your colleagues about an event that's recently occurred, give an update on a project, provide a progress report, or report the findings of an investigation. Narrow your topic. You may be juggling a lot of projects and be tempted to send a memo updating your colleagues, superiors, or clients on everything you're currently working on. Keep in mind though, that business memos should be focused on just one issue. They should be concise, clear, and easy to read quickly by busy individuals; thus, you don't want important information to be overlooked. Keeping the memo focused will help ensure that your message is received and understood. Consider your audience. The content, style and tone of your business memo will all be affected by the intended audience, so think carefully about everyone who will receive your memo. For example, you'll write a different type of memo if you're writing to your colleagues about planning a surprise party for the people in the office with summer birthdays, as compared to when you're writing your supervisor about the results of your months-long investigation. Label your memo. There are many different types of business correspondence. Standard practice for a memo is to explicitly title the document as such. For example, type “Memo” or “Memorandum” at the top of the page. It's up to you as to whether you want to center or left-justify the title. A good rule of thumb is to examine the business memos you've received and copy the formatting. Write the heading of your memo. The first section of your memo should include four key pieces of information. We'll provide you with more detailed information about each component in later steps. TO: provide the names and titles of everyone who will receive your memo. FROM: provide your complete name and title. DATE: provide the complete and accurate date—don't forget to include the year. SUBJECT: provide a brief, yet specific description of what the memo is about. Note that it's also common practice to indicate the subject line with “Re:” or “RE:” (both of which are short for regarding). Choose your recipient list carefully. Make sure that you include everyone who needs to be informed or updated. Limit the distribution of your memo to just those who need to know. It is poor business practice to send your memo office-wide if only a few are concerned or affected. People will quickly become overwhelmed by the sheer volume of memos, and may be more prone to ignore them or not read them carefully. Use the appropriate names and titles for the people on your recipient list. Even if you're on a friendly first-name basis with your boss, it's best to keep your written correspondence more formal. For example, you may call her “Sue” when you meet in the hall, but for the purposes of your memo, address her as “Ms. Wells” or “Dr. Wells”. Keep this in mind when you're filling out the information for everyone on the recipient list: include full names and business titles. Research the proper titles of people you are writing to in an external memo. If you are sending a memo to someone outside of your office, it's also important to determine the proper form of address. Take the time to research their profile; their information is probably outlined on their company's website. For example, do they have a PhD? If so, it's generally a good idea to refer to them as Dr. So-and-So. What is their title? For example, are they a vice president or a dean? If so, be sure to refer them as such in your memo. Compose the subject line carefully. You want to be sure that your subject line, while short, is clear and not too general. For example, “New Business” is pretty vague, and if someone is searching through their files a few weeks or days down the road, they may have a hard time pinpointing your memo. Something better would be “Progress Report on Investigation for Expanding Customer Base”. Consider skipping the salutation. It's up to you whether you want to preface your message with a salutation like “Dear Ms. Winters,” or “Dear Colleagues”. Keep in mind though, that these greetings are not expected in a business memo. This is meant to be a quick and efficient means of communicating important information, and it should be clear to your audience who is receiving the memo and who it is from. Compose the first, introductory section of the memo. Clearly state your purpose for writing and sending the memo. For example, “I am writing because...”. The introduction should provide a brief overview of what the recipients can expect in the memo. Keep the introductory section brief. There is no need to provide all of the details and/or evidence in the first section of your memo. Keep it on the shorter side—a few sentences or a short paragraph will suffice. Decide on the organization of the body of your memo. After the introduction, a business memo usually contains an additional two to four paragraphs before concluding. The content and organization will vary depending upon your topic. For example, you may choose to arrange the information in the body by order of importance, or if you are explaining a process, you will divide the body sections of your memo to correspond with the various stages of the process. Decide if you want to include subheadings and titles. Your business memo should have clear sections. It's common for business memos to be divided into clear sections so that the recipients can read and digest the information with ease. You may further help them grasp the important points of your memo by labeling the subsections. Write specific subheading titles. Make sure that the focus of each subsection is clear to your audience. For example, you might include all of the following subsections when writing about the office's impending move: “New Location For our Head Office,” “Important Directives for Packing the Office,” and “Timeline for Completion of the Office Move.” Include topic sentences in each of the body paragraphs of your memo. The first sentence of each subsection or paragraph should tell the audience what the main point of that section will be. The individual paragraphs or sections of your memo should be focused on just one idea. Consider using bullet points. You may find it helpful to use bullet points or create lists if you want to highlight important points. This can help your readers zero in on the key points and help them be able to read the memo more quickly and efficiently. Keep it concise. Typically, a business memo should be no longer than one to two pages. This standard page limit is for a single-spaced document with spaces between sections. Decide if you need a summary paragraph. Generally speaking, you won't need to summarize what you've just written in your memo, especially if you managed to keep it under a page. However, if the information you outlined was complicated, or if you sent a longer-than-normal memo, it may be helpful for you to briefly sum up the key points. Include a closing section or paragraph. Even if you judge that it's not necessary to summarize the memo, you still need to end it on a concluding note. Think about the following: What is the take away from the memo? Do you need the recipients to do anything? Should they respond by a certain day? If so, clearly state it. If no further action is required, include a simple closing sentiment such as “I'm happy to discuss this further” or “Let me know if you have any questions or concerns”. Sign if you wish. It's generally not necessary to add your complete name or signature at the end of your memo. Keep in mind, though, that it's safest to follow the example of others in your field. If they sign formally (for example, “Regards, Ms. Smith), then follow suit. Even if you skip the signature, you may want to include your initials at the end of the document. Make a note about any attachments. If you included any attachments with your memo, such as tables, graphs, or reports, be sure to make a note of this at the end of your memo. For example, “Attached: Table 1”. You should also refer to the attachments in the body of the memo as well. For example, if you are writing to let your employees know about an upcoming office move, you may write something like the following: “We intend to be finished with the moving process by the end of the quarter. See the attached Table 1 for a more detailed schedule.” Review the memo carefully. Prior to sending the memo, be sure to carefully proofread. Verify that your sentences are grammatically correct, that there are no spelling or punctuation errors, and that the content makes sense. Consider holding off on sending it after your initial proofread if it is not time-sensitive. If you review the memo again after an hour or two, you may find mistakes that you initially overlooked. If the memo contains sensitive information, check your company policy to see who can review the memo for you and give you final approval on the content. | Avoid language that is too casual. Avoid using emotional language. Use signal phrases. Choose an appropriate font style and size. Use standard margins for your memo. Single-space your document. Decide if a memo needs to be sent. Identify your purpose for writing. Narrow your topic. Consider your audience. Label your memo. Write the heading of your memo. Choose your recipient list carefully. Use the appropriate names and titles for the people on your recipient list. Research the proper titles of people you are writing to in an external memo. Compose the subject line carefully. Consider skipping the salutation. Compose the first, introductory section of the memo. Keep the introductory section brief. Decide on the organization of the body of your memo. Decide if you want to include subheadings and titles. Write specific subheading titles. Include topic sentences in each of the body paragraphs of your memo. Consider using bullet points. Keep it concise. Decide if you need a summary paragraph. Include a closing section or paragraph. Sign if you wish. Make a note about any attachments. Review the memo carefully. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Dog-Lover | How to Become a Dog Lover | To become a dog lover, check out TV shows and online videos about dogs to get to know more about the animal. You might also want to grab a book or two about dogs to learn about the different breeds out there. Then, when you're ready for more hands-on experience, you can spend time with a friend's dog or volunteer at a local animal shelter. If you're curious about owning your own dog, consider fostering a dog from a shelter. | Buy dog paraphernalia. Stock up on t-shirts, stickers and posters of dogs. You don't have to spend a lot of money or buy anything in particular. If you're out and about and see something funny or cute that features a dog, go ahead and buy it. If you're on Pinterest, try doing a search for "cute dog stuff." There may be artwork, calendars or other items, which can provide you with inspiration for adding to your dog collection. Do online searches. To become a dog person, you should familiarize yourself with different breeds. There may be some you relate to and like more than others and by studying the different types of dogs, you have a better chance of finding the right match for you. Start by doing an online search to familiarize yourself with different breeds. Just Google, “dog breeds” and see what comes up. Start with the “A's” and work your way through the alphabet. Or, if you have a particular type of dog you think you may like, start there. It may help to find a dog that fits your personality. People have a tendency to gravitate towards pets that resemble them in some capacity. Think about your favorite characteristics and try including that in your search. Some sites, such as the American Kennel Club, feature a blurb about the dog's personality. You may be able to scroll through the list and pick out different qualities you like. Watch shows about dogs. Observing dogs and their behavior on TV is another great way to familiarize yourself with your new friends. You may even find yourself thinking about how it would feel to own a dog of your own. There are a lot of great shows on TV right now, which are about or pertain to dogs. Tune into Animal Planet or take a look at their website to see what shows they are currently airing. Some shows are about people who take care of dogs, while others are about training animals. Try to watch a mix of shows before focusing in on what suits your interests. If you're just looking for something cute and cuddly, try watching the Puppy Bowl. The event takes place before the Super Bowl and acts as a competition for furry “frienemies.” Another opportunity to familiarize yourself with dogs, is the National Dog Show, which takes place on Thanksgiving. The show features a wide range of dog breeds. While you may learn a little more about each dog's characteristics, more than anything you'll be able to observe many different types of breeds. Read a book. Whether it's a picture book or a heartwarming story; there are plenty of books available, which will transform anyone into a dog person. Oprah's book list for dog lovers is a great place to start. If you're looking for a picture book, narrow in on what type of picture book you're looking for. There are picture books by breed as well as books that will tug on the heartstrings, such as “Shelter Dogs in a Photo Booth.” Browse through Oprah's online list of dog books. There are brief descriptions of each book, so you're sure to find one book you can relate to or are interested in. Visit a dog park. If you want to do some more active research on dogs, visit a local dog park. Do a search for parks near you. Some are specifically designated for small dogs, while others are for larger ones. When you're there, ask people if you can pet their dog. Talk with them about why they chose the dog they have and what they like best about that particular breed. You may want to bring a few treats for the dogs. This will help them to warm up to you. Be aware though, that you may gain more friends than you feel comfortable with, as the dogs may swarm at the scent of treats! Volunteer at a local shelter. One of the best ways to be around dogs, is to find a local shelter where you can volunteer. There are many opportunities for volunteers including feeding and walking the dogs. Don't worry if you're not there yet, though! Do an online search for local animal shelters. You should be able to find more information as to how to volunteer, but if you're having a hard time, give them a call. There are usually a lot of great opportunities and what's more, there are a lot of great benefits to working with the animals. You'll discover new things about yourself, while helping to improve a dog's situation. Hang out with a friend’s dog. If you're not quite ready to be around a number of dogs, try starting with a friend's pet. It may be an easier transition if you have the owner close by to monitor the interaction. You may feel more comfortable meeting at a local park, while the dog is still on a leash. Ask your friend to meet you there. Once you've gotten to know the dog, you may feel more comfortable being around them at home. Let them smell your hand first and try bringing a dog treat with you, to start building the relationship. Walk dogs. If you're interested in getting some exercise and being around dogs, you may want to consider walking your neighbors dogs. You should start with just one dog. Familiarize yourself with the animal prior to the first walk. Ask to see the leash and learn about his/her walking habits. It may be best to start with a smaller dog, as they are often easier to control on a leash. Do not take on the responsibility if you can't ensure your safety and the safety of the dog, while walking. Foster a dog. After all of your dog research, you may begin to feel like you're ready to take on the responsibility of owning a dog. However, if you're not quite ready to commit to 11 years, which is the average lifespan of a dog , you should consider fostering one. Local shelters are often looking for foster families to provide temporary comfort, love and support to the many homeless dogs. Terms and conditions vary greatly, so be sure to ask a lot of questions. You should know everything from what your financial responsibilities will be, to how the dog interacts with other animals and children. If you have a child in your home, make sure you try introducing the dog to your child before committing to the animal. Even if the shelter says they are good with children, you will want to make the introduction on your own. Understand that if you fall in love with the dog, you may not be able to keep it and it may only be with you for a very short period of time. You should also be aware of the challenges you could face when fostering an animal. Many have come from poor conditions and bad situations. They may have health or behavioral issues. Choose to adopt. You're finally ready to take the leap and transform into a true dog person. Adopting a dog is a very big step! Remember, you're committing to your new friend for 11 to even 20 years. Adoption should never be taken lightly. The worst thing you can do to a dog is to give him/her back to the shelter because you are unable to handle the responsibility. Read up on the breed you're considering adopting. You should learn about potential health issues, as well their unique characteristics. Determine what the financial responsibilities will be and what basic care of a dog entails. If you work all day, you may need to find someone to let your dog out for potty breaks. These are all things to take into consideration before making the lifelong commitment. | Buy dog paraphernalia. Do online searches. Watch shows about dogs. Read a book. Visit a dog park. Volunteer at a local shelter. Hang out with a friend’s dog. Walk dogs. Foster a dog. Choose to adopt. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Encourage-Your-New-Cat-to-Come-Out-of-Hiding | How to Encourage Your New Cat to Come Out of Hiding | To encourage your new cat to come out of hiding, start by sitting near its hiding spot for 20 minutes at a time and speaking to it softly so it gets used to your smell and voice. As you talk to your cat, try holding out a treat, like a piece of chicken. If your cat comes out to take the treat, reward it with another one to reinforce the positive behavior. Then, hold your fingertip out to your cat when it comes out and let it smell you when it's ready. | Give your cat time to get used to its new home. The best way to make your cat comfortable enough to come out of hiding is to give it time to adjust to its new surroundings. Most cats take a couple of weeks to acclimate, but it might take a month or two. During this time, try not to force the cat to come out of its hiding spot. Avoid chasing or picking up your cat, especially during this initial timeframe. Be patient. If your cat isn't showing interest when you use these techniques, give it space and try again later. Sit near its hiding spot and talk to it. While your new cat is adjusting to its new home, you'll want to get it used to your presence. If it's hiding, sit near its hiding spot and talk softly to it. This will help get it used to your scent and sounds. Try sitting with it in intervals of about 20 minutes a few times a day. Touch its nose with your fingertip. If it comes out of hiding, hold your hand out with a fingertip extended. Let it approach you and smell you on its own. When it does, gently touch your fingertip to its nose to say hello. Cats greet each other by touching noses, and you can simulate this by using your fingertip. Offer your cat treats. Sit calmly near your kitty's hiding spot and offer it a treat, like a lean piece of chicken or a store-bought treat. If it comes out to take the treat, reward it with another one. Avoid eye contact and loud noise. Your cat will be a bit stressed out during its acclimation period. When you speak to it, be sure to speak softly, and avoid making lots of noise around it. Try not to make direct eye contact, as your cat will interpret this as a confrontation. Reducing your new cat's stress will help it become comfortable enough to come out of hiding. Give yourself plenty of time to get your cat in a carrier. You'll likely need a minimum of 20 or 30 minutes to get your cat out of hiding and comfortable enough to get into a carrier. If possible, work this into your schedule so you can avoid having to fight with it and force it into a carrier. Try keeping the carrier in its space at all times, and place its food inside the carrier so the cat will associate it with good things. Offer treats and toys. If you need to make a vet appointment or otherwise get your cat out of hiding in a hurry, try coaxing it with pet treats or a piece of canned tuna. You can also use a chase toy, like a feather on a string, to help it forget about its fear or shyness. Continue to play with it for 10 to 15 minutes. If you need to get it in a carrier, try placing treats in the carrier, and avoid forcing it in the carrier unless absolutely necessary. Try spraying Feliway. Feliway contains synthetic pheromones that can help soothe your cat. Spray it around your cat's hiding spot to encourage it to come out of hiding. It'll relax your cat and make it want to investigate the scent. Don't spray Feliway right in front of your cat. It could startle your cat, making it even less willing to come out of hiding. Once it's relaxed, it'll probably want to rub against you and be stroked. You should give it some loving attention after spraying Feliway instead of trying to rush it into the carrier. Keep your cat in one room when you first bring it home. Your cat will have a harder time acclimating if it's free to explore your entire home. Instead, keep it in your bedroom or a small, quiet room for at least the first two weeks after bringing it home. The room should have a door that closes and should be free of foot traffic. Try to keep your cat away from other people or animals while it gets used to your home. Make dangerous hiding spots inaccessible. Keeping your cat in one room will reduce the likelihood that it'll get trapped in dangerous hiding spots, but you should still take the time to cat-proof its room. Make sure HVAC ducts are secure, choose a space that doesn't have a fireplace, and make sure it can't knock over any furniture or objects. Try to keep your drawers closed, keep it away from appliances like washers or dryers, and keep your closet door closed if you want to keep it off limits. Let your cat out of its room at night once it becomes acclimated. Once your cat is comfortable with coming out to explore its room, you can start introducing it to the rest of your home. Since cats are nocturnal, start by leaving the door to its room open at night. If it's back in its room in the morning, close the door to avoid overwhelming it. If you can't find your cat after you've let it explore the house, put out a fresh can of cat food or treats and give it some time to come out of hiding. If it has a favorite toy that makes noise, give the toy a shake to get your cat's attention. Be sure to cat-proof before you let your cat explore the rest of your house. Close doors to limit the area that your cat can explore and potentially hide. Keep a secure screen (or, in a pinch, a piece of plywood) over any fireplaces, be sure your washer and dryer doors are closed, and check for loose HVAC ducts. | Give your cat time to get used to its new home. Sit near its hiding spot and talk to it. Touch its nose with your fingertip. Offer your cat treats. Avoid eye contact and loud noise. Give yourself plenty of time to get your cat in a carrier. Offer treats and toys. Try spraying Feliway. Keep your cat in one room when you first bring it home. Make dangerous hiding spots inaccessible. Let your cat out of its room at night once it becomes acclimated. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Help-Shelter-Dogs | How to Help Shelter Dogs | To help shelter dogs, contact local organizations to see what they need help with, like walking dogs, grooming, or helping families find the right dog for their lifestyles. Alternatively, you can donate money or supplies, such as dog food, beds, or toys. If you're looking to get a new pet, try adopting, or fostering a dog while it waits to be adopted. Additionally, encourage others to adopt from shelters by talking to friends and family or posting adoption alerts on social media. | Find your local animal shelter. There may be multiple shelters for you to volunteer at, or maybe you just have one local adoption group. Try to locate all of the shelters in your area so that you can choose the one that works best for you. The Shelter Project can help you identify all of the animal shelters and rescues in your area. Simply type in your postcode and click the option to find a “Pet Adoption Group.” Research what volunteer opportunities are available. Depending on the shelter's size and needs, there may be a variety of different jobs they need you to fill. Volunteers are often asked to socialize and train dogs to make them attractive for adoption. Other jobs may require you to take on a customer service role to help potential adopters at the shelter. Some jobs you may be able to do include: Walking dogs Bathing dogs Training dogs Providing veterinary care Grooming dogs Helping families find the right dog Working in administration Tell the shelter about any skills you have. Shelters often need assistance with fundraising, marketing, and caring for the dogs. Contact the shelter, and let them know if you have a particular skill that might help them with these specialized services. If you're a photographer, you may be able to take professional quality pictures of the dogs to post online. This will help the dogs be adopted more quickly. If you have experience in marketing, you may be able to help the shelter advertise their dogs. You should let the shelter know of any previous work you have with helping animals, including any veterinary training that you may have. Sign up for a job. Some shelters will ask you to fill out an online form to sign up; others may have you complete a physical application. This form may ask you to provide your age, experience with dogs, contact information, and availability. The shelter's website should state what their volunteer policies are. If they do not, try calling the shelter and asking them, “How can I volunteer to help the dogs?” Many shelters may require you to be at least 16 years old to volunteer. Some may let you volunteer with a parent or guardian if you are younger. Commit to going at your scheduled time. Animal shelters often rely on their volunteers to function at full capacity. It is important that you follow through on your promises when you volunteer. Most shelters will assign you a time when you should come to volunteer. Make sure you're able to be there when they need you. Some shelters may require you to commit to a length of time when you will volunteer. This period may be as long as year. You can work with the shelter to find a shift that fits your schedule. Be prepared to volunteer for between two and four hours per shift. Check that the shelter is reputable. It is always important to make sure that the shelter or rescue you are supporting is a legitimate non-profit charity. Sometimes puppy mills will disguise themselves as a rescue to sell puppies or dogs who do not live up to their standards. Others will pack in as many dogs as they can in filthy conditions to maximize profits from adoption fees. If a breed-specific rescue is only offering puppies, be aware that it might be a puppy mill. Legitimate rescues will normally offer dogs of many different ages. Visit the shelter. A filthy or overcrowded shelter is usually a sign that they are complying with local animal laws. If the dogs appear malnourished, they may not be using their funds for food. Puppy stores are not shelters. They sell the dogs for profit, and they often buy their dogs from puppy mills. Avoid donating to these stores. If you are worried about the welfare of these dogs, contact animal control instead. Ask them what they need. Some pet shelters may have a wish-list of items that they need desperately. Others may be trying to raise money for a new building, new bedding, or special medical care. To identify the best donation for your shelter, call them. You can ask: “Are there any special projects that the shelter needs money for?” “Are you in need of food, bedding, or other supplies?” “What is the proper way of donating money to your shelter?” “What types of items do you not accept?” Raise money for the shelter. Shelters need money to buy food, medical care, and food for dogs. By raising money, you can help improve the quality of life for dogs in the shelter. It may also allow the shelter to care for more dogs without euthanizing them. You can host a bake sale, garage sale, or other small scale sale to raise money at your own home, school, or office. If you have a birthday or wedding coming up, you might consider asking guests to donate to your local shelter instead of buying you gifts. You can set up a crowd-funding page for your local shelter on a platform like Go Fund Me or Generosity.com to solicit donations. Organize a supply drive. You can encourage people to donate dog food, toys, treats, and other dog items. This will save the shelter money. It may also give the dogs a special treat. Some things you can donate include: Food and water bowls Leashes Dog beds and blankets Toys like tennis balls, chew ropes, or KONG toys Both wet and dry dog food Adopt dogs instead of buying them. One of the best ways to help shelter dogs is to adopt one yourself. By giving a dog a permanent, loving home, you not only reduce the burden on the shelter but you also free a spot for another homeless dog at the shelter. Foster a dog. When you foster a dog, you care for the dog in your home while the shelter looks for a potential owner. This is a temporary situation. By letting the dog into your home, you open up a spot for another dog at the shelter. Make sure that you can handle giving the dog away when they are adopted. You may have to housebreak the dog and train them. This will help the dog find a good home more quickly. Spay or neuter your dogs. The best way to prevent overcrowding at shelters is to prevent more dogs from entering the system. Spaying or neutering your dog will prevent them from having puppies of their own. It may also help current homeless dogs find a home. If you do not have a dog, you can encourage others to spay or neuter their dogs. Point out the benefits of spaying and neutering. You might say, "spayed female dogs live longer" or "neutered male dogs won't wander from home as often." Tell your friends to adopt. If you can't adopt a dog yourself, you can encourage others to rescue a dog instead of buying one from a store or breeder. If a friend or family member is considering getting a dog, talk to them about the benefits of adoption. You might say, “You should consider adopting from the local animal shelter. It's a great way to save a life.” You can bring up the benefits of adopting. For example, you might say, “It is much cheaper to adopt a dog” or “many dogs in animal shelters are already trained.” Share notices of dogs needing homes. Social media is a powerful tool to help shelter dogs find homes. Like the pages of your local shelters social media pages. They will often post notices of dogs who need homes. Share these on Facebook, Twitter, and other networking apps to spread the word. This will help the dog find a home more quickly. | Find your local animal shelter. Research what volunteer opportunities are available. Tell the shelter about any skills you have. Sign up for a job. Commit to going at your scheduled time. Check that the shelter is reputable. Ask them what they need. Raise money for the shelter. Organize a supply drive. Adopt dogs instead of buying them. Spay or neuter your dogs. Tell your friends to adopt. Share notices of dogs needing homes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Monistat-3 | How to Use Monistat 3 | Monistat 3 is a good option for treating mild yeast infections. However, if your symptoms are more severe or don't go away with over-the-counter products, see your doctor. Monistat 3 comes in different forms, like pre-filled cream applicators, suppositories, and ovules. To use the cream applicators, take 1 out of the box and unscrew the cap. Push the small end of the plunger into the gray hole at the end of the applicator, then insert the applicator into your vagina as far as it will comfortably go. Push the plunger to release the cream. If you'd rather use a suppository, first, remove it from its wrapper. Then, set the suppository on the end of 1 applicator and insert it directly into your vagina. Pull the applicator back out and discard it. Both suppositories and cream applicators are best used right before bed so the treatment doesn't leak out right away. It's also a good idea to wear a pantyliner to protect your underwear from leakage. | Purchase Monistat 3 prefilled cream applicators for a cheap option. The box will come with 3 prefilled applicators that contain medicated cream. Each cream applicator has 200 mg of miconazole nitrate. The package may also have a tube of external anti-itch cream. The prefilled cream applicators are thought to be the messiest of the Monistat 3 options, but they're usually the least expensive. Get Monistat 3 suppositories for a simple treatment. A package has 3 suppositories that each contain 200 mg of miconazole nitrate. The package will also come with 3 applicators for inserting the suppositories. Suppositories often include a tube of anti-itch cream for external application. Buy Monistat 3 Less Mess ovules for flexible treatment during the day. If you'd like to use the Monistat treatment during the day instead of at night, buy the Less Mess ovules. The ovules aren't as messy as the Monistat suppositories. A package has 3 doses of 200 mg of miconazole nitrate. The package might also include 1 tube of anti-itch cream to use externally. The ovules are similar to suppositories, but they aren't as messy since they dissolve more slowly. Wash your hands before using any Monistat product. To prevent the spread of disease, wash your hands well with soap and water. Dry your hands thoroughly to make it easier to open the product packaging. Use 1 treatment per day for 3 days. Regardless of whether you choose the cream, suppository, or ovule, you'll need repeat the treatment once per day for 3 days. Only use 1 treatment rather than combining treatments or using multiple treatments. Apply the cream if you don't mind a messy treatment. Take out a prefilled applicator and unscrew the cap. Push the small end of the plunger into the gray hole at the end of the applicator barrel. Insert the applicator into your vagina as far as it can go comfortably. Push the plunger to get the cream into your vagina. Remove and throw away the plunger and applicator. Use a suppository for quick and easy insertion. Separate a suppository wrapper to remove 1 suppository. Set the suppository on the end of 1 applicator and insert it directly into your vagina. Insert it as far as it's comfortable and then pull the applicator back out. Discard the applicator. Try to lie down immediately after inserting the suppository since it will start to leak out as it dissolves. Opt for the ovules if you are more active. Push 1 ovule out of the foil packet and set it on the end of 1 applicator. Insert the applicator into your vagina as far as it feels comfortable. Push the end of the applicator toward you so the ovule is released into your vagina. Throw away the applicator once you pull it out. Use the prefilled cream applicators or suppositories right before bed. Because the treatment will begin to leak out as it dissolves, try to lie down immediately after inserting the cream or suppository. This is why most women use these Monistat treatments right before bed. It's also a good idea to wear pantyliners to protect your underwear from any leakage. The Monistat 3 ovules will dissolve without leaking, so you can use these during the day. Avoid using tampons while using a Monistat treatment. While you can treat a yeast infection during your period, don't insert tampons after you've used Monistat. The tampons can absorb the medication, so use pads instead. Avoid using condoms and rubber-based birth control barriers. You should avoid using condoms, diaphragms, or cervical caps until you've finished the treatment. The Monistat 3 medication can weaken these forms of birth control, so use an alternative form of birth control until treatment is complete. For example, switch to a hormonal method such as the pill or an intrauterine device (IUD). Stop using Monistat if you have side effects or an allergic reaction. You may experience some abdominal cramping, headaches, hives, or skin rash. If these side effects don't go away or become worse, you may have an allergic reaction. Contact your healthcare provider for advice about whether to stop using the Monistat. Switch to Monistat 7 if you experience burning. Some women notice a brief burning sensation when they start using Monistat 3. If you do, you might want to switch to Monistat 7, which is a lower dose. Keep in mind that you'll need to take the treatment for 7 full days instead of 3 because of the difference in dosing. Get medical attention if your symptoms don't improve after 7 days. You should notice an improvement in symptoms within 3 days, but talk with a doctor if the yeast infection isn't gone after 1 week. Your healthcare provider may find that the infection wasn't actually a yeast infection and prescribe a different treatment. Talk with your healthcare provider if the same symptoms come back within 2 months of treating it. This can mean that something else is causing your infections. | Purchase Monistat 3 prefilled cream applicators for a cheap option. Get Monistat 3 suppositories for a simple treatment. Buy Monistat 3 Less Mess ovules for flexible treatment during the day. Wash your hands before using any Monistat product. Use 1 treatment per day for 3 days. Apply the cream if you don't mind a messy treatment. Use a suppository for quick and easy insertion. Opt for the ovules if you are more active. Use the prefilled cream applicators or suppositories right before bed. Avoid using tampons while using a Monistat treatment. Avoid using condoms and rubber-based birth control barriers. Stop using Monistat if you have side effects or an allergic reaction. Switch to Monistat 7 if you experience burning. Get medical attention if your symptoms don't improve after 7 days. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Wrap-a-Groin-Injury | How to Wrap a Groin Injury | If you have a groin injury, you'll need to wrap it the right way to help it heal faster. Start the wrap at the inner thigh of your injured leg about halfway between your knee and crotch. Wrap the tape up your leg, overlapping itself, until you reach the top of your leg. Once you reach the top of your leg, continue around your outer leg, up over your buttocks, and over your opposite hip. Cross the tape over your lower abdomen and just below the hip bone of your injured leg. Overlap the wrap a few times on the upper leg of your first leg so it sticks and cut the end. | Start the wrap at the mid inner thigh on the injured leg. Have the injured person stand with their legs straight and evenly spaced, facing you. Start the wrap by sticking the elastic adhesive medical tape to their inner thigh about halfway between their knee and crotch. Angle the tape slightly upward, as you'll be wrapping in that direction. You can use an elastic non-adhesive sports wrap instead, if desired. You'll just have to tape the wrap in place when you're done. This wrap works best on bare skin, so remove or “hike up” as much clothing as modesty permits. Or, tape over compression shorts (and shirt) if necessary. Wrap the tape around and up the leg as high as possible. Come up over the front of the leg, around the back of the leg, and overlap your starting point by about half the width of the tape. Continue wrapping around and up until you are as close to the inner top of the leg as is feasible. You want the tape to cause some compression of the muscles, but don't pull it excessively tight. If the leg below the tape loses its normal color or tingles, the tape is too tight and must be removed and replaced more loosely. Bring the tape around and over both hips. Once you've reached the inner top of the leg, continue around the outer leg, up over the upper buttocks, and over the opposite hip (of the uninjured leg). Go right over the hip bone. Then, continue the tape over the lower abdomen and just below the hip bone on the injured side. Finish the wrap by overlapping the tape on the upper leg. From the same-side hip, go down around the back of the leg and around the existing tape job. Wrap the tape around the leg (and existing tape) once or twice for secure adhesion. Then cut off the tape and you're all set! If you've used a non-adhesive elastic bandage instead of tape, you'll need to wrap around the loose end of the bandage with athletic tape to hold it in place. Go around the entire leg once or—even better—twice with the tape. This type of wrap will allow for generally free movement, but should not be seen as a license to return to full physical activity. Consult your doctor or physical therapist for your proper recovery timeline. Position the injured person’s leg for wrapping. Have the person stand facing you with their hips square. Ask them to step forward slightly (about a half step) with their injured leg, turn their foot in slightly, and keep their knee bent enough that their heel lifts a few inches/centimeters off the ground. Their hips should remain square and facing you. For their comfort, place a rolled up towel or some other prop under their lifted heel while you wrap their leg. This leg maneuver tenses up the upper leg muscles and allows for a slightly tighter wrap with the non-adhesive elastic bandage. Start the wrap on the outer mid-thigh. Make sure that you use a large wrap. Place the wrap end on the outer leg, about one-third of the way up from the knee to the hip bone. Bring the wrap over the front of the leg and all the way around the leg, working slightly upward. Overlap the starting point by about half the width of the wrap. Pull the elastic bandage snug as you work. You want it to be tight, but if the person's leg loses its normal color or begins to tingle, the wrap is too tight and must be immediately replaced. Non-adhesive elastic bandages work better over clothing than elastic adhesive tapes, but the clothing should be skin-tight (e.g., compression shorts and shirt). If you choose to do this wrap technique with adhesive tape, wrap it over bare skin as much as possible. Wrap up to the top of the leg and over the hips. Once you've reached the inner top of the leg, come around the back of the leg with the bandage, then go up over the upper crotch/lower abdomen and onto the opposite hip bone (on the uninjured leg). Bring the bandage across the lower back/upper buttocks and over the hip bone on the injured side. Finish the bandage wrap around the leg. From the injured-side hip, bring the tape down over the front to the top inner thigh. Overwrap the existing bandage once or twice, going completely around the leg. Either keep wrapping around the leg until you run out of bandage or—better yet—wrap up and over the hips once or twice more. When you're finished wrapping, ask the injured person to hold the end of the bandage tight while you grab some elastic adhesive tape. Tape over the elastic bandage to hold it in place. You can simply tape around the leg a couple of times to hold the non-adhesive elastic bandage in place. For the best hold, though, repeat the entire wrap with the tape—that is, go around the leg, up over the hips, and back down over the leg with the tape. Like any other groin wrapping technique, this one should reduce your pain and increase your mobility, but it isn't a cure. You are still injured, and should follow your medical professional's advice about returning to activities. Keep the bandage close to the skin, but not so tight that it cuts off circulation. It should be snug and there should not be any wrinkles in it. Buy a groin wrap or specialized compression shorts. You can find many types of groin wraps online or at sporting goods stores. They are typically made of an elastic material and have Velcro closures to hold them snug. They'll typically wrap around your leg, up over your hips, and then finish back over the leg. You can also buy compression shorts that are specially-made to provide extra support to an injured groin. Both of these products are easier to apply yourself than are tape or elastic bandages, which are best applied by another person. A properly-done tape or bandage job may produce better results, however. Use a groin wrap as part of the RICE method for healing. No matter how you wrap it, you have to give a groin injury time to heal. Experts often promote what is known as the RICE method—Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate. Wrapping the injury fulfills the “compress” component. Get your doctor's input on how often to wrap your groin, how tightly to wrap it, and what types of activities you can do while it is wrapped. You don't want to risk further injury. Rest your injury as much as possible. You simply cannot rush the healing process of a groin injury. For a mild or moderate groin strain, expect to need at least 4-8 weeks to recover. During this time, you should rest the injured muscle as much as possible. Work with your medical professional regarding your timetable for resuming different levels of activity during your recovery. Groin strains come in three grades. A grade 3 strain means the muscle is completely or nearly completely torn. The recovery time here will be greater than 8 weeks, and surgery may be necessary. Make sure that you stop your activity and begin resting the injured muscles as soon as possible. Ice your injured groin to reduce pain. Especially in the days right after your injury, your strained groin may cause you a fair amount of pain. Under your doctor's guidance, apply a wrapped ice pack to the area 3-4 times per day as needed, for about 20-30 minutes at a time. Never apply ice or an ice pack directly to your body. The extreme cold can damage your skin. Elevate your groin while lying down. When you go to bed or are resting flat on your back, stick a pillow or two under your pelvis to elevate your groin area. Keeping the area elevated when possible will help reduce pain, swelling, and inflammation, especially in the days after the injury. Use caution when engaging in activities that may reinjure the muscles. You can easily reinjure your groin again when you return to the same activities that injured it in the first place. Make sure to give yourself plenty of time to recover. Also, make sure to use proper form when engaging in the activity again. It is also important to wear the appropriate footwear for the activity to help prevent another injury. Don't make any sudden movements or changes in direction as this will increase your chances of getting injured again. | Start the wrap at the mid inner thigh on the injured leg. Wrap the tape around and up the leg as high as possible. Bring the tape around and over both hips. Finish the wrap by overlapping the tape on the upper leg. Position the injured person’s leg for wrapping. Start the wrap on the outer mid-thigh. Wrap up to the top of the leg and over the hips. Finish the bandage wrap around the leg. Tape over the elastic bandage to hold it in place. Buy a groin wrap or specialized compression shorts. Use a groin wrap as part of the RICE method for healing. Rest your injury as much as possible. Ice your injured groin to reduce pain. Elevate your groin while lying down. Use caution when engaging in activities that may reinjure the muscles. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-a-Split | How to Do a Split | Before doing a split, warm up with some easy cardiovascular activity for 8-10 minutes and some light stretches involving your hamstrings, hips, and groin. Once you've warmed up, lower yourself down while relaxing and breathing deeply to get rid of any tension. For a side split, allow both feet to slide apart with your hands on the ground to brace yourself. If you're attempting a front split, let 1 leg slide forward while keeping the other leg behind you and your hands on either side of your body. | Wear flexible clothing. When you do your first split, you're probably (understandably) focused on possible injury or discomfort you might experience, so it's easy to forget that you can shred certain types of clothing by doing a split. Don't put yourself at risk for an embarrassing rip! Wear loose or flexible clothing, such as the following suggestions: Athletic shorts, leggings, track pants, skirt, or sweat pants. Loose t-shirts or tank tops. Skin-tight elastic material - spandex or lycra leotards, dance clothes, etc. Martial arts clothing - karate gi, etc. Socks or tights. You may also go barefoot. Warm up. Like with any athletic activity, warming up before doing splits can help you focus, decrease your discomfort, and prevent injury. To warm up, you'll want to raise your heart rate, then perform a few light stretches. To raise your heart rate, perform some light cardiovascular activity. 8-10 minutes of jogging, cycling, or jumping rope should suffice - whatever is enough to raise your temperature and heart rate. Stretch. Next, do a few stretches - try to focus on the muscle groups that are most important for doing splits, like your hamstrings, hips, and, if you want to attempt a side-split, groin. You don't need to run through your entire stretching routine like you would if you were trying to build flexibility to be able to do the splits in the first place, as these stretches are intended solely as a warm up. In fact, once you can do it confidently, doing a split itself can become part of your stretching routine. Get into position. When you've warmed up and stretched, get into a stance that allows you to transfer to a split with ease. This stance will differ based on whether you are attempting a front split or a side split. See below for the distinction: For a front split, lower yourself into a kneeling position with your back straight. Stretch your preferred leg forward in front of you. Your front knee should be straight and your back knee bent so the shin on that leg is resting on the ground. Make sure your back knee and foot are facing the ground and NOT to the side. This is a common mistake and can result in severe injury. For a side split, stand up straight, then take a wide straight-legged stance. Spread your legs slightly more than shoulder-width apart. Relax. Take deep breaths. Think of peaceful, relaxing thoughts. Try not to hold any tension at all in any of your body's muscles. Believe it or not, there is evidence that relaxation techniques can make a measurable difference in a person's flexibility, especially if they become a habitual part of a stretching routine. Take a deep breath in and as you let it out go down a little bit farther. Begin to lower yourself down. When you're warmed up, relaxed, and ready, slowly and gently lower yourself into either the front split or side split. Go down as far as you can without any major pain or discomfort - if you feel anything beyond mild "flexing" discomfort, stop your split attempt. Have your hands ready to brace yourself as you get close to the floor - it's very difficult to support your entire weight with your legs and keep them relaxed at this point. If you're attempting a front split, place your hands on the floor and slowly slide your front leg forward until your reach the floor. Point your back toes, as keeping them flexed can prevent you from sliding down properly. You should never excessively twist your lower back. If you're attempting a side split, allow your legs to spread out to the sides. You will probably need to lean forward and support your weight on your hands at some point. Don't overdo it. Forcing yourself into a split can cause painful injury that will decrease your ability to flex. Be satisfied with gradual progress. If this means that, for instance, on a given day, you can only go down to a foot off the ground while feeling a decent stretch, don't go any further. Cautiously continue to the floor. Surprisingly, doing it on a mattress can help you get down further, and also help you get the feel of doing the splits. When your legs have reached a 180 degree angle and your pelvis is resting on the ground, congratulations - you've done the splits! On your first attempts, you probably won't be able to do this all the way. This is normal. Don't try to push yourself past your point of maximum flexibility or to "bounce" to get slightly better results. Instead, use the opportunity to stretch and try again later. Hold your position. When you've performed your splits or reached the limit of your flexibility, try to hold this position for about 30 seconds.Then, get up, stretch, and repeat as much as you wish (alternating legs if you do front splits). Only do splits as often as you're comfortable, never fighting against the pain to do "just one more." Or you can try doing some other skills that involve the splits. Be patient. Never attempt to push yourself past your limit. Doing the splits requires lots of time and plenty of patient practice. Increasing your flexibility can take months. Since this is a process that happens gradually over time, you may not notice improvement every time you attempt the splits. Stick with it! You will get better as you practice every day. Keep in mind that the splits are not a comfortable position even for most people who have them. When you've mastered the splits, try the over split. Believe it or not, getting your legs to 180 degrees is not the most you can do when it comes to splits. By continuing to stretch, you can increase your flexibility to a point that you're able to bend your legs to an angle greater than 180 degrees. However, because this feat of flexibility is fairly extreme, care must be taken to prevent injury. To build up your ability to do a so-called "over split", start by performing a splits with a pillow on the ground next to you. Go into your split and put your heel on the pillow. You will be stretching just slightly further than in a normal split. Hold this as position as you normally would. As your flexibility gets better and better, you may gradually add pillows to increase the angle at which you flex. Be conservative - never add pillows until you're perfectly comfortable at your current level of flexibility. Know the muscles you need to stretch. Doing a split can appear deceptively simple. In actuality, this move requires a high level of flexibility in multiple muscle groups. The most important of these are the hamstrings and dorsal hip muscles (also called iliopsoas ), however, stretching a wide range of lower-body muscles will ensure greater overall flexibility, lessening your risk of discomfort, pain, or injury. Additionally, this comprehensive stretching regimen prepares you to do both types of basic split - side splits and front splits. Besides the hamstrings and hip muscles, try to add stretches for as many of the following muscles as possible to your fitness routine: Lower back (lumbar region) Buttocks (glutes) Groin (especially valuable for side splits) Calves Quadriceps The stretching recommendations included the following steps in this section will target many of these secondary muscles. However, if desired, you may substitute your own preferred stretches. Do a hamstring stretch against the wall. This stretch will help your hamstrings and lower back. Lie on the floor next to a straight wall. Position yourself so that your body is pointing perpendicular to the wall. Raise your legs and place them as high as you can on the wall while keeping your lower back on the floor. Reach towards your toes with your hands - go as far as you can without excessive strain or pain. Hold for 30 seconds. Repeat 2-3 times. Do a lunge stretch. This stretch targets your hip muscles. Begin as if you were doing an ordinary lunge exercise - plant one foot forward and lower yourself down to the ground by bending your front leg and sliding your back leg back until your shin lies on the ground. When you've reached the floor, put your hands on your hips and gradually shift your weight forward, keeping your back straight. Continue until you begin to feel the stretch in the top of the thigh where it meets the hip. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then return to your starting position and switch to your other leg. Repeat several times. Do a seated V stretch. This stretch hits your hamstrings, lower back, and, if you can reach your toes, your calf muscles. Sit on the floor and spread your legs in a wide "V". Raise your hands over your head. Gently and gradually bend your upper body as you reach towards one of your feet. Stop when you notice pain or discomfort or stretching becomes difficult. Hold for 20-30 seconds, then return to the starting position and stretch towards the other leg. You may not initially be able to reach your toes. This is O.K. However, when you can reach your toes, you may grab your foot and gently pull it towards you to stretch your calf. Do a butterfly stretch. This stretch mainly works your groin and inner thigh. Sit upright on the floor with your back straight. Don't slouch - if needed, you may sit against a wall. Bring your legs towards your body and press your feet together so that your legs make a diamond shape. Move your heels as close to your groin as you can without experiencing pain. You may also push your knees towards the ground with your hands for an added stretch, but use caution, as this can be somewhat hard on the knees. Hold this stretch for about 20 seconds, then rest and repeat. Do a quadriceps stretch. This aptly-named stretch mainly stretches your quadriceps - the large group of muscles on the front of your thigh. You'll need one or two pillows. Lower yourself into a kneeling position with your rear knee on the pillow(s). Raise your back foot, then, keeping your back straight reach back and grab it with your opposite hand. Gently pull your leg towards your bottom. You should feel a stretch in the front of your thigh. Hold for about 20 seconds, then switch legs. Alternatively, if you're worried about putting stress on your knees, you may do a standing quad stretch. Stand up straight, lift one leg up towards your bottom, then reach back and pull it with the arm that's on the same side. You may want to brace yourself against a wall with your other hand for balance. Do a calf stretch. Lay on your stomach on the floor. Raise yourself into a "plank" position - keep your back and legs aligned and support your upper body on your elbows and your lower body on your toes. Place one foot on top of the other so that you're balancing on one foot. Gently push back with your body weight until you feel a stretch in your foot and your calf. Hold for about 20 seconds, then switch feet and repeat. In addition to stretching out your calf muscles, you'll also get a light ab workout from holding the plank pose. | Wear flexible clothing. Warm up. Stretch. Get into position. Begin to lower yourself down. Cautiously continue to the floor. Hold your position. Be patient. When you've mastered the splits, try the over split. Know the muscles you need to stretch. Do a hamstring stretch against the wall. Do a lunge stretch. Do a seated V stretch. Do a butterfly stretch. Do a quadriceps stretch. Do a calf stretch. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Cyber-Bullying | How to Stop Cyber Bullying | To stop cyberbullying, take immediate action by blocking the bully on all online platforms so they can't communicate with you directly anymore. Try to avoid responding to cyberbullying, since the bully's goal is to get a reaction out of you and responding to them is exactly what they want you to do. It can also help to screenshot evidence that you're being harassed so you can easily report the bully to service providers, social media sites, school administrators, your parents, and even the police if you feel truly threatened. | Look for signs of harassment. Whether you're concerned that you may be getting bullied yourself, or you're a parent concerned that your child is being bullied, watching out for a few indicative signs is a good way to detect cyberbullying. Cyberbullying often takes the form of one person harassing another through emails, instant messages, text messages or other modes of electronic communication. Harassment is taking place if the bully is directly contacting someone with one or more of the following types of messaging: Hateful or threatening messages. This includes name-calling, attempts to control someone's behavior by threatening to expose embarrassing information, or threats of violence. Embarrassing or threatening images or videos. Multiple unwanted emails, instant messages, or texts, regardless of the content. Lies about the person to make them look bad. Look for signs of public online humiliation. Another common form of cyberbullying occurs when the bully harasses a target by way of public embarrassment, rather than directly contacting the victim. Cyberbullies may use public tactics, like spreading rumors and gossip using social media, text messages and other tools. Other means of public humiliation via online platforms include: Posting humiliating messages on a social media site, a blog, or another public space. Sharing pictures or videos that are embarrassing or explicit in nature on social media websites and through text messaging. Creating a website filled with defamatory images, insults, and rumors about the target. Look for signs of online impersonation. A less obvious, but equally harmful form of cyberbullying takes place when the bully attacks someone by impersonating them as a way to bring about humiliation or punishment. In some cases the bully may create a screen name nearly identical to the screen name used by someone else, then use that name to create embarrassing or threatening situations for them. In this case it is more difficult to identify the perpetrator. Report the impersonation to the website or your service provider. Ask the bully to stop their behavior. Some bullies start out as a friend, an ex, or someone else you know well. If it's possible to have a reasonable discussion with the person, ask them to stop. Have the conversation in person, not through email or text. Be clear and direct, and say something like, “I saw those things you said about me on Facebook. That's inappropriate and it hurt my feelings; I'd like you to stop saying those things about me.” If you don't know who the bully is, or if you're being bullied by a group of people, attempting to talk it out probably won't work. Don’t respond to the bully’s messages. If talking it out won't work, don't directly respond to the text messages, instant messages, emails or other communications you may have received from the bully. Bullies want to elicit a reaction from their targets, so firing back a text will only make things worse. Your best course of action is simply to disengage. Also, don't threaten the bully to get back at them. Sending a threatening message out of exasperation will only provoke the bully to keep up the bad behavior, and it may get you in trouble, too. Save the evidence of cyberbullying. Screenshot or save every email, text, instant message, social-media post, and any other evidence of cyberbullying that you come across. Record the time and date that each message was sent. If you can't screenshot the offensive messages, you can copy/paste them and save the text on your hard drive. Having as much information as possible about the bully's behavior will help you determine how to stop their behavior. You can also show this evidence to an authority figure to prove that you're being bullied. Block the bully on all online platforms. Immediately put an end to the bully's ability to harass you online by blocking that person from direct communication with you. Take advantage of social media sites' privacy settings to make sure the bully can't engage with you online anymore. Take the following steps to protect yourself: Delete the person from your email contacts and block instant messaging communication. Delete the person from your social networks and use the online privacy settings to ensure that the person can't get in contact with you again. Block the person from texting your phone. Tell a trustworthy adult that you’re being cyberbullied. If you're a child or teenager, ask an adult for help. Your parents, teachers, principal and school counselor are all in a position to put a stop to the situation before it goes any further. Don't assume the problem will go away on its own; speak up immediately to put a stop to it. You might be tempted to let the bullying run its course instead of bringing attention to the problem, but if you do that the bully will get the message that there's no penalty for harassing someone. Talk to your school administrators if you’re being cyberbullied. Tell a person in authority what's going on, and explain to them the ways in which you're being cyberbullied. If you're not comfortable talking to a principal, talk to your favorite teacher or the school counselor. Every school has a policy for dealing with bullying, and more and more schools have a specific plan for putting a stop to cyberbullying. No matter what your school's individual policy might be, it's part of the administrators' job to resolve the situation. If you're a child or teenager, know that taking this issue to the school is the right thing to do. Other kids at the school may be experiencing cyberbullying, too. The school needs to be made aware of the problem to take steps to end it. If you're a parent, set up a meeting with the school principal to address the problem head-on. Report the bully to your service providers and social media sites. Cyberbullying usually violates the terms of service laid out by social media sites, cell phone providers, and other service providers. Read up on your providers' policies and take steps to report threatening behavior. The provider may decide to penalize the bully or delete their account as a result of your report. You may have to send your records of the cyber bully's messages to the provider as proof you are being bullied. Contact law enforcement for cases of severe bullying. In some cases cyberbullying may be classified as a crime, which places it beyond the jurisdiction of schools and service providers. If the cyberbullying involves one of the following elements, call your local police department, or report to the officer stationed at your school. Threats of violence or death. Sexually explicit photos or descriptions of sex acts. If the images are of a minor, this may be considered child pornography. Secretly-recorded photos or videos that were taken without the subject's knowledge. Hateful texts or online messages that single out and harass the victim on the basis of race, gender, religion, or sexual identity. Avoid sharing sensitive personal information online. Cyberbullies often use pictures, status updates, and personal information they find online to harass their targets. It's fine to share information about yourself online, but never reveal something you don't want the whole world to know. Even if you want to have a serious, personal conversation with a friend, do so in person, not over tweets, Facebook posts, or Instagram comments. For example, don't take an explicit photo of yourself to post on a private Tumblr page. Information typed into a Facebook comment, Tumblr post, or Instagram comment could land in the hands of a cyber bully. Try not to discuss deeply personal information online. Don’t participate in cyber-bullying behavior. If you're feeling marginalized or picked on, it's tempting to channel those negative feelings into bullying activities, to give yourself a sense of power. But, even if you're the one doing it, cyberbullying is still wrong. Your behavior can influence other people's actions, so make it clear that you don't stand for cyberbullying by setting a good example for others. If your friends start teasing someone online or via text, don't participate. Ask them to stop, and let them know that cyberbullying has the same dangerous consequences as in-person bullying does. Install parental control software or apps on your PC and smartphone. This software or app will block attempts at bullying and keep your child from seeing inappropriate online content. If you don't already have this, then ask your parents about installing it. If you're a parent, then go ahead and install protective software—or turn on privacy apps—as a protective measure. | Look for signs of harassment. Look for signs of public online humiliation. Look for signs of online impersonation. Ask the bully to stop their behavior. Don’t respond to the bully’s messages. Save the evidence of cyberbullying. Block the bully on all online platforms. Tell a trustworthy adult that you’re being cyberbullied. Talk to your school administrators if you’re being cyberbullied. Report the bully to your service providers and social media sites. Contact law enforcement for cases of severe bullying. Avoid sharing sensitive personal information online. Don’t participate in cyber-bullying behavior. Install parental control software or apps on your PC and smartphone. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Set-up-a-Dressage-Arena | How to Set up a Dressage Arena | To set up a dressage arena, first mark the sides with surveyor's tape or a measuring wheel. If you're following standard measurements, make the arena 20 by 60 meters. You should also ensure each corner is a perfect right angle by forming right-angled triangles with stakes. Then, place equestrian fencing or a short wooden fence along the lines you've measured, with a gate on one side. Finally, measure and place the letters along each side for dressage performances. | Make sure your space is the right size. Before you set up the arena, you will need to make sure that you have a big enough place for the arena. A standard dressage arena is 20 meters by 60 meters (or about 66 feet by 197 feet). A short dressage arena is 20 meters by 40 meters (or about 66 feet by 132 feet). Find a space where you will have 1-2 meters (about 3 to 6 feet) of buffer around the outside of the arena. A standard-sized or larger arena (100x200 ft) will give you room for a full jump course and for advanced riders to practice longer gaits with more space. Make sure the arena has proper drainage. If your arena is dry, you can always water it. However, if your arena has bad drainage, you will spend lots of time and money to ensure proper drainage. It can also be a danger – if your arena doesn't drain well, the footing will be too soggy to ride without risking injury. Put your arena on a high point in your property. It will make a big difference! Find a place for the judge to sit. If you are planning on using the ring for show purposes, you will need to make sure that there is a place where you can set up the judge's table. Try to find a place where the sun will not be in the judge's eyes during early morning shows and where the judge can see all parts of the arena. Typically, the judge will sit on one of the “long sides” of the arena. Clear any debris in the area. Walk through the area you've chosen for your arena. Look for large rocks, debris, or any unevenness in the footing that could affect your measurement of the area or cause a horse to trip or spook. Assess the surroundings. Are there trees that could drop branches into the arena? Is there anything nearby that could fall and spook horses? Is there anything that could drain or wash into the arena during a storm? Carefully consider the area around your location to rule out potential hazards. Make a right angle. It's really important that you have an exact right angle for your dressage arena, because your arena will be rectangular. In order to make a rectangle, you must make a perfect right angle on the ground, for the perimeter for the rectangle. To do this, you should make a 3-4-5 triangle. By the Pythagorean Theorem, if the sides of a triangle are in the ratio 3:4:5 (or 6:8:10, etc.), then the angle formed by the “3” and “4” sides should be exactly 90 degrees. Put one stake in the ground. This will be one part of the corner of your dressage arena. Lay two stakes out in what looks like a right angle. With your measuring tape, measure out a distance of about 3 feet, perfectly in line with the stake. Mark the 3 foot place on the ground. Do the same with the 4 foot mark on the other side of the right angle. Measure from the 3 foot marker to the 4 foot marker. It should be exactly 5 feet. If it is not, adjust the stakes so that the 3 foot and 4 foot markers are exactly 5 feet away from one another. Mark out the long side. The long side of your arena will be either 40 meters or 60 meters, depending on the size of arena that you want and/or need. If you are using the ring for more advanced purposes (higher level competition) or want the standard arena size, you should mark out 60 meters. If you do not have space for the standard size arena or plan to use your arena more casually, you could mark out 40 meters. Ask your trainer which is better for you. Use surveyor's tape or a measuring wheel to mark out this distance from the first stake that you've used to create your right angle. Put another stake in the ground to signify this distance. Tie string between the two stakes and measure the distance again, to be sure. Mark out the short side. The short side of your arena will be 20 meters long, no matter which size of ring you're building. Mark out 20 meters with surveyor's tape or a measuring wheel and put another stake in the ground there. Tie string between the two stakes and measure the distance again, to be sure. Repeat this process for the other long and short sides. Now you should use the other two stakes as your initial starting corners and measure out right angles again. You should also still tie string around each stake and remeasure the distances to make sure that they are correct. Assemble your materials. You can make a dressage arena out of many different materials, but you probably want to purchase the fencing online from a specialty equestrian retailer or order it through a tack shop. If you do not want to spend that much money, you could use a short, low-cost wooden fence. Dressage arenas typically are no taller than a foot or so. Place the fencing along the lines you’ve measured. Make sure that the fencing is straight and lines up with the string you've tied around the stakes. Make sure that there is a gate or an opening so that horses can get in and out of the arena. This gate is typically on one (or sometimes both) of the short sides. Measure out where the letters will go. You will need one letter in the middle of each short side. Use a measuring tape to measure 10 meters, to the middle of the short side, and then put something there to mark it (like a rock or a stake). Next, measure where the other letters will go. On a standard arena, put a mark 6 meters from the short side, then another mark 12 meters from that mark. Put another mark 12 meters from that mark, and then another mark 12 meters from that one. Finally, put a mark 6 meters from the other short side. In total you'll have 5 marks for letters. Put marks in these same places along the other long side and also along the center line. So, you should have marks for 17 different letters on a standard arena. For a smaller arena, the process is similar. Still put a mark in the middle of each short side. Then, mark a place on the long side that is 6 meters from the short side. Then put another marker 14 meters from that marker, and then another marker 14 meters from that one, coming down the long side (this one should also be 6 meters from the other short side). In total there should be 3 markers on that long side. Put marks in these same places along the other long side and also long the center line. So, you should have 11 different letters on a small arena. Place the letters. Letters in a dressage arena, which are used for the purpose of memorizing and executing patterns, are always in a specific pattern. They are also different for standard arenas and small arenas. Placing your letters in the right order is very important. You'll need them in practicing and memorizing your patterns, which will give you confidence when you go to a show with similarly arranged letters. The easiest way to place dressage letters is to look at a diagram of the arena size that you want. These diagrams are available easily online. The letters for a standard dressage arena are in the pattern, if you are starting on the short side and moving counter-clockwise, A (on the short side), K, V, E, S, H (all on the long side), C (on the short side), M, R, B, P, F (all on the long side). Then, on the center line, moving away from A, there are D, L, X, I, G. The letters and placement are a little bit different for a small arena. Going counterclockwise, you should still place A in the middle of the short side, then K, E, H (all on the long side), C (in the middle of the other short side), then M, B, F (all on the long side), and then, going up the center line from A, D, X, and G. | Make sure your space is the right size. Make sure the arena has proper drainage. Find a place for the judge to sit. Clear any debris in the area. Assess the surroundings. Make a right angle. Mark out the long side. Mark out the short side. Repeat this process for the other long and short sides. Assemble your materials. Place the fencing along the lines you’ve measured. Measure out where the letters will go. Place the letters. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Put-on-Suspenders | How to Put on Suspenders | To put on suspenders, start by fastening them to the back of your trousers before you put your trousers on. Then, put your trousers on and lift the suspender straps over your shoulders, making sure the straps sit flat and comfortably against your back. Next, bring the straps down over your chest in 2 straight, vertical lines and attach them to the front of your trousers. Finally, use the buckles to adjust the straps so your suspenders fit perfectly. | Fasten the suspenders to the back of your trousers. Before you put on your trousers, secure the suspenders in place. Line up the suspenders with the center of your trousers. Clip or button them to the fabric, never the belt loops. Fasten X-back suspenders halfway between your spine and your sides. Y-back suspenders fasten in the center of your waistband above the 2 innermost belt loops. Pull up your trousers. Bring them up as high as possible since you won't be wearing a belt. Secure any buttons or zippers to help hold your pants in place. High-waisted pants work best with suspenders and offer the most support for your stomach. Skip putting on a belt. Suspenders make wearing a belt unnecessary. In addition, wearing a belt with suspenders is considered a fashion faux pas, so pick one or the other to wear when you dress in the morning. Raise the suspenders over your back. Lift the suspender straps over your shoulders. X-back suspenders will criss-cross over your back. Y-back suspenders will come up from your waistband to your center before splitting off into the 2 straps. Make sure the straps feel flat, comfortable, and centered against your back. Having the suspenders too low causes them to slip off your shoulders. Adjust the straps as needed. Bring the suspenders straight down over your chest. Regardless of the style, your suspenders should fall down in 2 straight, vertical lines. The front end will likely be spaced further apart than the back end. As long as the suspenders look even and feel comfortable, you've positioned them perfectly. Attach the suspenders to the front of your trousers. Finish attaching the suspenders by buttoning or clasping the straps the same way you did with the back ones. Clips fasten directly to your waistband, while button suspenders attach to pairs of buttons placed on the waistband. Slide the buckle on the suspenders to adjust them. Most suspenders are adjustable, so they'll fit even if they're not tailored to the exact size you need. Feel around for a buckle, which will either be where the straps cross on your back or at the bottom of the front straps. Slide the buckle to shorten or lengthen the straps to get the perfect fit! Suspenders labeled as elastic or one size fits all are always adjustable. Suspenders that aren't adjustable tend to be handcrafted, like leather ones. Get suspenders that fit your body. The best way to get fitting suspenders is to go to a store that sells them. Ask a store associate to try them on. Employees can usually help you put the suspenders on and get the perfect fit. Suspenders can be found at department stores or purchased online from suspender retailers. Suspenders are based on height. Suspenders 42 in (110 cm) long fit adults between 5 to 5.75 ft (1.52 to 1.75 m) tall. Suspenders can be often be found as small as 36 in (91 cm) long and as large as 52 in (130 cm). For sizes outside this range, speak with online suspender retailers to create a custom order. The midrange suspender thickness is between 1.25 to 1.5 in (3.2 to 3.8 cm). Smaller suspenders may appear more fashionable, but larger sizes offer more support. Pick X-back suspenders for sturdiness. X-back suspenders form an x on your back. They offer more support because the straps are spread apart. This makes them ideal for physical work and casual settings. Most of these suspenders fasten with clips since most pants don't have buttons on the sides. You can always have a tailor sew buttons onto your pants so you don't have to use clips on X-back suspenders. Choose Y-back suspenders for formal occasions. Y-back suspenders form a y on your back, attaching to your pants through a single strap that runs down the center. This makes them a little weaker than X-back suspenders, so it's important to get good quality. These suspenders are often seen at business or formal events. Use clip fasteners for pants without buttons. Suspenders with clips fasten directly to your pants, so they're always easy to wear and remove. Although they're appropriate to wear at any occasion, many people think these suspenders are less professional and less classy. Avoid wearing them in very formal settings. Clips can also damage your trouser fabric over time. Wear button-on suspenders for style. Button-on suspenders generally look better than clip-on suspenders. However, they need to attach to buttons inside your pant's waistband. Either use them with pants that have buttons or sew buttons onto your other pants. Y-back suspenders require 2 buttons in the center of the backside of your waistband. X-backs need 4 buttons total, 2 each off to the side. Both types require 4 buttons on the front. When sewing on buttons, put the suspenders on to see where they fall on the inside of the waistband. Mark those spots and sew on the buttons there. Color coordinate suspenders with the rest of your clothing. Incorporate suspenders into your overall outfit to make them into a fashion statement. Match them with same-colored shoes, pants, or a jacket, depending on your preference. Keep them under your jacket to stay classy in formal settings. When wearing your suspenders for work or a special occasion, keep them neatly tucked away beneath a suit jacket or vest. Pair them with a button-down shirt, suit jacket, suit pants, and dress loafers. Suspenders used to be thought of as underwear inappropriate for public display. While that's not commonly believed today, the rule still applies in formal settings. Wear suspenders over a collared shirt for a semi-professional look. Wear the suspenders over a dressy shirt, leaving the suit jacket off. Striped or seersucker suspenders are most common, but other colors and prints can be used. This look can be worn in public without making you seem overdressed. Pair the suspenders with linen suit pants or khaki pants and black or brown dress loafers. Adopt a punk twist with skinny suspenders. Put on colored suspenders with skinny straps to adopt a 1960s London style. Wear them with jeans and sneakers. This look has a punk or hipster appeal and can be worn every day in public. Rugged, durable pants like jeans or corduroy trousers are better for this look since it is inspired by the working class. A tucked-in, button-down shirt is still the classic way to go, but make it a little slack by leaving the top buttons undone, rolling up the sleeves, or wearing flannel print or other colors. Keep your shoes fairly durable. Opt for sneakers or boots over loafers. Wear leather for old-fashioned charm. Leather suspenders look unique and rustic. They match up well with tweed trousers, a button-down shirt, and old-fashioned accessories like a driving cap, a bowtie, or a trench coat. Dark jeans are another option for this look. Stick with leather loafers or leather dress boots to complete the look. Wear suspenders with dress pants for a semi-formal look. The most obvious way to incorporate suspenders into an outfit is to match them with dress trousers and a button-down shirt. A suit jacket is not necessary, but closed-toe dress heels or loafers are a good choice. Suspenders are not considered standard business attire for women, so this is a playful but professional look. Achieve a punk look with jeans and a t-shirt. Slip on a t-shirt or tank top underneath the suspenders, then put on a ragged pair of jeans. This creates a very noticeable but customizable punk style perfect for casual settings in public. Stick to sneakers, loafers, or flats with this style. Pair suspenders with shorts for a summer look. Attach the suspenders to high-waisted or nautical shorts. Slip on a comfortable t-shirt or tank top beneath the suspenders. Any casual, somewhat fitted tank top or t-shirt, such as a red-striped one, works well here. This look is still casual, but somewhat playful, so have fun with your footwear. A wedge heel, sandal, or embellished flat can accompany this look. Wear a skirt for a more feminine look. Put on a t-shirt but pair it with a skirt. Try to keep the outfit simple, colorful, and charming. Keep the clothing limited to a single pattern and 2 solid colors, then match it with flat sandals, kitten-heel sandals, or decorative flats. Accessorize suspenders with jewelry. Although suspenders are considered menswear, they don't have to be. Spruce up any pair of suspenders with details you like, such as dangling earrings, delicate necklaces, cocktail rings, and bangle bracelets. Accessories create an appealing, fashion-forward contrast with the suspenders. | Fasten the suspenders to the back of your trousers. Pull up your trousers. Skip putting on a belt. Raise the suspenders over your back. Bring the suspenders straight down over your chest. Attach the suspenders to the front of your trousers. Slide the buckle on the suspenders to adjust them. Get suspenders that fit your body. Pick X-back suspenders for sturdiness. Choose Y-back suspenders for formal occasions. Use clip fasteners for pants without buttons. Wear button-on suspenders for style. Color coordinate suspenders with the rest of your clothing. Keep them under your jacket to stay classy in formal settings. Wear suspenders over a collared shirt for a semi-professional look. Adopt a punk twist with skinny suspenders. Wear leather for old-fashioned charm. Wear suspenders with dress pants for a semi-formal look. Achieve a punk look with jeans and a t-shirt. Pair suspenders with shorts for a summer look. Wear a skirt for a more feminine look. Accessorize suspenders with jewelry. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Minnows-Alive | How to Keep Minnows Alive | To keep minnows alive, keep them in a dark, cool spot, like your closet or basement. Don't overcrowd your tank since too many fish decrease the oxygen and increase the heat, causing them to die quickly. If you plan to keep your minnows for a few days, use 1 ounce of hydrogen peroxide for every 3 gallons of water to assist with the formation of oxygen that the fish are depleting. | Decide when to purchase the minnows. Minnows do not usually live that long, especially when they are kept in less than optimal conditions. This means that you should purchase them close to the time you plan on going fishing. This can be a problem, however, if you plan on going fishing in the early morning, as many bait shops are not open early enough to accommodate buying minnows on the day you want to go fishing. A bait fish that is kept in poor conditions, such as being overcrowded, can die in less than 24 hours. In order to have your fish last longer, you need to care for them properly. The lifespan of a minnow varies greatly depending on the type of minnow and the conditions it is living in. Fathead minnows and bluntnose minnows, for example, can live several years in a natural environment, such as a pond. There are some minnows that can live as long as seven to ten years. When using minnows for fishing, however, the conditions are less than ideal. This means they are likely to die much, much quicker. Get a container to put the minnow in. Many people keep minnows in a foam camping cooler or some other disposable, insulated container. However, there are containers that you can buy that are made specifically to keep minnow in. Foam coolers should be available at most grocery stores. Containers made specifically to keep minnow in are usually available at sporting goods stores or specialty fishing stores. Specialty containers can come with a variety of special features, such as the ability to float the container in a body of water and aerator attachments. Prepare the container for the minnow. Fill your container with distilled water or water from a lake or creek right before you buy the minnows or quickly after you do. The water should be cold, as the fish need a cool temperature to stay alive. The chemicals in tap water can kill your minnows, so don't use it to keep the minnows in. The container you are using should maintain a constant temperature, helping keep your minnows alive longer. Add some of your water to the water the minnows are held in. Gently pour some of the lake, creek, or distilled water you are using into the plastic bag the minnows came in. This will give them the ability to adjust to the water, and its temperature, gradually. Put the closed plastic bag containing the minnows into your bait bucket. You do not want to simply dump them into your container immediately. Instead, allow enough time for the minnows to adjust to the temperature of the water in your bait bucket. Keep the bag shut and place it into the cooler of water for about 15 minutes. Add the minnows to your holding container. After 15 minutes, allow the minnows to leave the bag and swim freely in the foam cooler or bait bucket. The period of acclimation they went through should allow them to quickly adapt to their new surroundings. Don't overcrowd your minnow tank. Crowding too much bait into a container can cause the bait to die more quickly. Too many fish will deplete oxygen quickly and create too much heat. For example, only put about six dozen small minnows (3/4' to 1" long) in an eight-quart container. Store the container in a dark, cool spot. For example, you can store your bait container in a closet or a basement. Minnows are delicate and thrive better in cooler water. The water will warm up too quickly if you keep the cooler in a bright area. Put an aerator in the container. An aerator will add oxygen to the water so that the minnows don't use it up and suffocate. This is especially important if you need to keep the fish for a day or two, and if you don't plan on switching out the bait container water often. Those that sell minnows commercially usually use an aeration system that oxygenates their water in one of two ways: agitation or compressed oxygen. An aerator can help to increase the lifespan of your minnow. This is due to the fact that other ways of aerating the water, such as adding additional water or adding hydrogen peroxide, can stress the fish immensely. With an aerator, the minnows get to simply stay in the water that you have already acclimated them to. Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide into the cooler if you do not have an aerator. You only want to add one ounce of three percent hydrogen peroxide solution for every three gallons of water. The hydrogen peroxide assists in the formation of oxygen in the water, replacing oxygen that is used up by the fish. You can also add more distilled water as necessary to refresh the minnows' water. Adding hydrogen peroxide to water is a controversial idea. Some people believe that it helps to oxygenate the water and won't hurt fish but others argue that it could kill fish easily. If you are unsure or apprehensive about adding it to your minnow's water, find an alternative, such as an aerator or changing the water frequently. Keep the water cool. Place ice cubes in a jar in the water that's inside the bait bucket to keep it sufficiently cool for the minnows. Repeat this as often as necessary to keep the water cool. Although minnows can survive in warm water, the rate of death increases dramatically once holding water is above 60 °F (15.6 °C). Try to keep your water below this temperature. Don't add ice directly to the water the minnows are in. The ice may contain small amounts of chemicals or chlorine that will kill the fish. Immerse the bait bucket into the lake or creek where you are fishing. You can either do this by placing the container on the edge of the water, where it sits in the water but doesn't exchange water, or you can use a container that allows the water from the body of water to flow in and out of the container without losing fish. This will help the bait acclimate to the temperature of the body of water you are fishing in. Placing your bait bucket into the lake or creek, so that the water is replaced, oxygenates the water, which also helps keep the minnows alive. Attach the minnow to the hook. Pick a minnow to place on your hook and decide how you will attach it. There are several schools of thought about what way is best to connect the minnow. Make your decision based on what is the best combination of keeping the bait alive and how the attachment allows the bait to move in the water. Through the mouth: Push the hook through the fishes' bottom lip up through the nostrils. Through the back: Hooking a minnow through the back allows the minnow to be in a more natural position in the water. This may be more effective for catching fish. Be prepared to replace minnows. Once you have put a minnow on a line, no matter what way you have done it, it will die relatively quickly. If it stops moving in the water, it is a much less effective bait than when it was alive. Because of this, it's best to replace minnows on your hook after they die. The rate at which minnows die varied dramatically depending on their health when you put them on the hook and the conditions in the water. Just be aware when you are recasting whether the minnow seems to be alive still or not. | Decide when to purchase the minnows. Get a container to put the minnow in. Prepare the container for the minnow. Add some of your water to the water the minnows are held in. Put the closed plastic bag containing the minnows into your bait bucket. Add the minnows to your holding container. Don't overcrowd your minnow tank. Store the container in a dark, cool spot. Put an aerator in the container. Pour a small amount of hydrogen peroxide into the cooler if you do not have an aerator. Keep the water cool. Immerse the bait bucket into the lake or creek where you are fishing. Attach the minnow to the hook. Be prepared to replace minnows. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Pickle-Eggs | How to Pickle Eggs | To make pickled eggs following Mrs. Beeton's classic recipe, start by boiling the eggs for 20 minutes. Once the eggs have had a chance to cool, carefully peel them and put them in a sterilized jar. Next, boil vinegar, peppercorns, and the rest of your pickling spices in a saucepan for about 10 minutes. When that's done, pour the vinegar mixture into the jar with the eggs while it's still hot. After the contents of the jar have cooled, put the lid on the jar and refrigerate it. You can store your pickled eggs for up to a month. | Boil the eggs for 20 minutes. They must be very hard boiled. Remove from the hot water and set aside to cool. Then, peel the eggshell off the cooled eggs. To peel, gently knock each egg against the side of a bowl or something similar to create cracks. Use your fingers to pry open a small hole, then peel off the eggshell in pieces. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/50\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-2Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-2Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/50\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-2Bullet1.jpg\/aid2794784-v4-728px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-2Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"485","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>"} Place the peeled eggs into a sterilized large jar. Pour about half of the vinegar into a saucepan. Add the peppercorns, allspice and ginger to the vinegar. Bring to the boil for about 10 minutes. Pour the hot vinegar over the eggs. Cover completely. Let stand until cooled. Then cover with the lid. Store in the refrigerator for at least one week before consuming. Keep refrigerated for up to one month. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/49\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-6Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-6Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/49\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-6Bullet1.jpg\/aid2794784-v4-728px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-6Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"485","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>"} Boil the eggs for 20 minutes. They need to be very hard boiled. Remove from the hot water and set aside to cool. Then, peel the eggshell off the cooled eggs. To peel, gently knock each egg against the side of a bowl or something similar to create cracks. Use your fingers to pry open a small hole, then peel off the eggshell in pieces. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-8Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-8Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-8Bullet1.jpg\/aid2794784-v4-728px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-8Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"485","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>"} Place the peeled eggs into a sterilized large jar. Pour the spiced vinegar into a saucepan. Add the garlic cloves and heat gently for ten minutes. Towards the end, bring to a boil. Strain the boiling vinegar over the eggs. Let cool completely. The vinegar must cover the eggs completely. It is what preserves them and prevents bacterial growth, so be generous. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-11Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-11Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e8\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-11Bullet1.jpg\/aid2794784-v4-728px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-11Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"485","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>"} Cover the container with its lid. Place in the refrigerator. Allow to steep for at least one week before consuming. Keep refrigerated for up to one month. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/24\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-12Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-12Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/24\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-12Bullet1.jpg\/aid2794784-v4-728px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-12Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":306,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"485","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>"} Bring the eggs to a boil in a saucepan. Boil for 20 minutes. Remove from the heat. Cover and let stand for 10 minutes. Drain the eggs. Dip into cold water, then drain again. Peel off the eggshell. Place the peeled eggs into a glass or ceramic bowl. Press a fork lightly into several places of each peeled egg. This will help the pickling liquid to penetrate more easily. Add the remaining ingredients to the same saucepan. Bring to a boil over high heat. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer. Simmer for another 10 to 15 minutes, until the beet slices turn tender. Pour the hot spiced vinegar and beet liquid over the eggs. Let cool before covering. Place in the refrigerator. Keep the eggs in their container for at least a day or two before eating, preferably up to a week. This gives plenty of time for the flavor to infuse. Keep refrigerated for up to one month. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-20Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-20Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9c\/Pickle-Eggs-Step-20Bullet1.jpg\/aid2794784-v4-728px-Pickle-Eggs-Step-20Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":301,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"477","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>"} | Boil the eggs for 20 minutes. Remove from the hot water and set aside to cool. Place the peeled eggs into a sterilized large jar. Pour about half of the vinegar into a saucepan. Pour the hot vinegar over the eggs. Let stand until cooled. Boil the eggs for 20 minutes. Remove from the hot water and set aside to cool. Place the peeled eggs into a sterilized large jar. Pour the spiced vinegar into a saucepan. Strain the boiling vinegar over the eggs. Cover the container with its lid. Bring the eggs to a boil in a saucepan. Remove from the heat. Drain the eggs. Press a fork lightly into several places of each peeled egg. Add the remaining ingredients to the same saucepan. Reduce the heat to medium and simmer. Pour the hot spiced vinegar and beet liquid over the eggs. Keep the eggs in their container for at least a day or two before eating, preferably up to a week. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-Dengue-Patients | How to Take Care of Dengue Patients | To take care of patients with dengue, which is a virus transmitted by mosquitoes, you should take them to a hospital every day, if they're not staying there overnight, to have their fever and blood count assessed. When their fever has dropped below 100 degrees Fahrenheit for 48 hours, they can stay at home. While they're recovering, make sure they get plenty of bed rest to recover their strength. You should also encourage the patient to drink lots of fluids to prevent dehydration from sweating or vomiting. Additionally, you can give them Acetaminophen or paracetamol to treat their fever. | Be aware of the incubation period. It takes about a week for symptoms to appear after an individual is infected. The symptoms presented by those infected with dengue determine its severity and the treatment plan. After you've been bitten by a dengue-infected mosquito, symptoms will appear typically four to seven days later. These symptoms generally last about three to ten days. Consider whether the person shows serious warning signs. There are two major classifications of dengue: with and without warning signs. Dengue without warning signs is usually identified by the presence of a fever (40 degrees Celsius/104 degrees Fahrenheit) and two or more of the following: nausea or vomiting; a rash that causes the face to redden and red patches to develop on arms, legs, chest, and back; body ache and pain; low white blood cell count; swelling of glands in the neck and behind the ear. Dengue with warning signs is classified similarly to dengue without warning signs, but patients in this category exhibited one or more of the following: abdominal pain; persistent vomiting; fluid accumulation in abdomen and lungs; bleeding from gums, eyes, nose; lethargy or restlessness; enlarged liver. Such warning signs indicate that the dengue infection may be serious and could progress to associated bleeding and organ failure, or what is called dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF). If one or more of the above symptoms are present, the subsequent 24-48 hours of dengue infection could be lethal without proper hospital care. Determine whether the patient has severe dengue. Severe dengue includes symptoms from both of the above classifications along with any of the following: Severe bleeding or blood in urine Severe fluid accumulation in abdomen, lung Loss of consciousness Involvement of other organs, such as heart, leading to further fluid accumulation, low pressure, high pulse rate If any of these symptoms are present, take the person immediately to the nearest hospital. Visit the hospital for a checkup. All patients with severe dengue or dengue that presents with warning signs should go to the hospital as soon as possible. Those who present without warning signs should also visit the hospital for a thorough check-up and confirmation of diagnosis. Determine where treatment and care will occur. Treatment can take place either at home or in hospital. For severe cases or those that exhibit warning signs, dengue must be treated in hospital. Home care is an an option only if the patient meets the following three requirements: 1) there are no warning signs present; 2) the patient can tolerate adequate fluids orally; 3) the patient can pass urine at least every six hours. Note that there is no specific medication or cure for dengue. Treatment mostly focuses on treating the symptoms of dengue. Maintain a clean and mosquito-free environment. While treating dengue patients at home, it's important to prevent further contact with mosquitoes because the infection can spread from person-to-person via mosquitoes. In other words, controlling mosquitoes is key to preventing others from becoming ill. Use window and door screens at home to prevent mosquitoes from entering. Use mosquito nets while sleeping. Wear clothes that minimize skin exposure to mosquitoes. Apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin. Repellants like DEET, picaridin, and oil of lemon eucalyptus are effective. Children should not handle repellents. Adults should apply repellents to their own hands first and spread them on the child's skin. Do not use repellents on children under two months old. Prevent the breeding of mosquitoes by draining stagnant water around the house and cleaning water storage containers frequently. Take dengue patients to the hospital daily. Dengue patients must go to the hospital every day to have their fever and blood count assessed. These daily visits must occur as long as the patient exhibits a fever of more than 37.5 degrees Celsius (100 degrees Fahrenheit). This monitoring at the hospital can cease after there has been no fever over a 48-hour period. Ensure the patient gets sufficient bed rest. Permit the patient to slowly resume his previous activities, particularly during the long period of convalescence. Because dengue often causes significant tiredness and lethargy, it's important that patients get plenty of rest and progress back into their daily routines with caution. Give the patient Acetaminophen/paracetamol (Tylenol®). This medication will help treat the fever. Give one tablet of 325 to 500 mg. A total of four tablets can be given to the patient in one day. Do not give the patient aspirin, ibuprofen, or other nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. These can increase the risk of bleeding in those with dengue. Encourage the patient to drink a lot of fluids. Patients should be encouraged to drink water, fruit juice, and oral rehydration solutions to prevent dehydration from fever or vomiting. Adequate fluid intake decreases the chance that a patient with dengue will have to be hospitalized. Men and women (ages 19 to 30 years) should aim to drink three liters and 2.7 liters of water per day, respectively. Boys and girls should have 2.7 and 2.2 liters of water daily, respectively. For infants, the intake is 0.7-0.8 liters/day. You can also prepare a juice using papaya leaves for dengue patients. Papaya leaf extract has been reported to increase platelet count in dengue patients. , although there is not yet firm clinical research to support this. Keep a daily record of symptoms. Maintaining a daily record will help you observe any worsening of symptoms. It's important to monitor children and babies closely since they are more likely to develop more serious cases of dengue. Keep clear notes on the following: The patient's temperature. Since temperature varies during the day, it is preferable to record it at same time daily. This will make your daily reading reliable and valid. Fluid intake. Ask the patient to drink from the same cup each time; this will make it easier for you to remember and keep track of the total volume consumed. Urine output. Ask the patient to urinate into a container. Measure and record the amount of urine each time. These containers are commonly used at hospitals to measure 24-hour urine output. You will be provided with one or can inquire about it at the hospital. Take the patient to the hospital if her symptoms worsen. Head to the hospital immediately if the patient exhibits any of the following signs: High fever Severe abdominal pain Persistent vomiting Cold and clammy extremities (could be due to dehydration or blood loss) Lethargy Confusion (as a result of poor water intake or blood loss) Inability to pass urine regularly (at least every 6 hours) Bleeding (vaginal and/or bleeding, bleeding from nose, eyes or gums, red spots or patches on skin) Difficulty in breathing (due to fluid collection in lungs) Deliver intravenous fluids. To treat severe cases of dengue fever at a hospital, doctors will begin by introducing intravenous (IV) fluids and electrolytes (salts) into the patient's body. This treatment works to replace the fluids lost through vomiting or diarrhea. This step will only be taken if the patient is not able to take fluids orally (e.g., because of severe vomiting) or is in shock. Intravenous means "within a vein." In other words, liquid substances will be infused directly into one of the patient's veins via a syringe or intravenous catheter. The recommended first-line IV fluid is crystalloids (0.9% saline). Doctors will monitor the patient's fluid intake through IV due to newer guidelines recommending a more cautious intake of IV fluids than in the past. This is because overhydration can cause adverse effects, including intravascular fluid overload, or a flooding of the capillaries. For this reason, in most cases, doctors will administer fluid in increments, rather than a constant flow. Do a blood transfusion. In more advanced and severe cases cases of dengue, doctors may have to perform a transfusion to replace lost blood. This is often the required treatment for patients whose dengue has escalated to DHF. A transfusion can entail transfer of fresh blood into the patient's system or just platelets, which are parts of the blood that help the blood clot and are smaller than red or white blood cells. Administer corticosteroid injections. Corticosteroids are man-made drugs that closely resemble cortisol, a hormone produced naturally by your adrenal glands. These drugs work by decreasing inflammation and reducing the activity of the immune system. The effects of corticosteroids on dengue infection are still undergoing medical trials and are as yet inconclusive. | Be aware of the incubation period. Consider whether the person shows serious warning signs. Determine whether the patient has severe dengue. Visit the hospital for a checkup. Determine where treatment and care will occur. Maintain a clean and mosquito-free environment. Take dengue patients to the hospital daily. Ensure the patient gets sufficient bed rest. Give the patient Acetaminophen/paracetamol (Tylenol®). Encourage the patient to drink a lot of fluids. Keep a daily record of symptoms. Take the patient to the hospital if her symptoms worsen. Deliver intravenous fluids. Do a blood transfusion. Administer corticosteroid injections. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-Freshwater-Fish | How to Take Care of Freshwater Fish | To take care of your freshwater fish, place your tank in an area out of direct sunlight, which will prevent algae from growing in it. Once you find a spot for your tank, you'll need to install a heater, light, and filtration system to keep your fish healthy. After you purchase your fish, make sure to feed them twice a day at the same time each day to prevent them from overeating. You should also clean the tank every other week to clear prevent bacteria from making your fish sick. To do this, use a gravel siphon to remove roughly 1/4 of the tank water. Then remove and scrub any plastic plants or decorations. | Research different fish species. Look on the internet or at the library for information about your fish options. Take notes about the ones that seem particularly interesting to you. Do you like the bright color of goldfish or perhaps the unique shape of puffers? You can also ask the store clerk for assistance, but it is always best to go in with some prior knowledge. Joining a fish forum online is another good option. You can ask the members any questions and read through past posts. For example, they may be able to tell you that not all goldfish are the same. The rep cap oranda goldfish is a great starter fish, but requires a tank of at least 30 gallons. Consider your experience level. Freshwater fish are generally considered to be more 'beginner friendly' than their saltwater counterparts. However, there are still different levels of care. Ask yourself, how much time do I have to care for a fish? How much money do I have to spend on equipment? If you are limited in resources and time, a low-maintenance fish may be good for you. A fahaka puffer is an example of an expert-level fish. They are difficult to keep alive in captivity and require very large tanks well-stocked with plant life. In contrast, a standard betta is a carnivore that can live in a smaller tank, with a pretty straightforward diet of dried food. Take notice of compatibility. “Species tanks” or tanks with just one fish are nice, but if you want to add in other types, you will want to do some thinking beforehand. Consider the temperaments of the fish as well as their life requirements. Do not pair peaceful fish with aggressive ones. Make sure that all fish in your tank need roughly the same temperature and pH levels. Watch overcrowding. Match your tank dimensions to the final size of your full grown fish. Calculate the surface area of your tank by multiplying the length times the width (in inches) and dividing by 12. This will tell you the number of fish of that your tank can sustain. Coldwater fish require more room than their tropical counterparts. For coldwater, follow the same formula but divide by 30 instead of 12. Overcrowding is a serious issue as it can contribute to toxic ammonia levels, overtaxed filtration systems, injured or sick fish, and an overall dirty tank. Make the purchase. You can buy fish online, direct from a breeder, at a pet store, or at an aquarium store. Choose a company that has positive reviews and is well-established. Look for clean tanks with numerous fish options. Select fish that appear healthy and vibrant, swimming and inspecting their environment. Stick to your plans and don't overbuy to avoid overcrowding. Handle the fish bag carefully on the way home. Don't jostle or shake it or you will agitate the fish. Choose a tank location. Place your tank in an area without consistent direct sunlight, to prevent the growth of algae. You need a flat, level surface with access to a reliable electrical outlet. The area will also need to support the weight of the tank. You can estimate 10-12 pounds per gallon with gravel added. Keep the tank away from your home's AC or heater unit as it will cause the temperature to fluctuate dangerously. Add gravel. Most people like to include gravel as it increases visual appeal and helps to trap debris at the ground level. Estimate 1.5-2 pounds of gravel for every gallon of water in your tank. Rinse your gravel well before placing it in the bottom of your tank. Try to make it fairly level, although you can create a rise in the front of the tank, if desired. Be aware that not all fish do well with gravel. It can be dangerous to some as they will mistake it for food and try to eat it. You can also add in plants (live or plastic) and other décor. Just note that everything that you put in the tank needs to be rinsed beforehand and will require regular cleaning afterwards. If you are looking to invest minimal time, limit your add-ons. Install your heater and light. A heater is used to keep your aquarium temperature at a certain level. An aquarium light allows you to see clearly into the tank and is a requirement if you have live plants. There are many different heater options including those that hang off the side of the tank, submerge in the water, or generate heat under the tank gravel via a coil. An aquarium hood with a light and heater combo is often a good idea as it protects your fish from airborne particles and keeps them in the tank. Whatever lighting setup you choose, just remember to limit its operation to 7-10 hours a day to prevent the growth of algae. Most lights come with timers. Not all fish require the use of heater. Some cold water species, such as goldfish, are fine without one. Tropical fish, on the other hand, generally require a temperature between 75 and 80 degrees. Aquarium plants often do the best with a coil heater as it keeps the gravel (i.e. soil) at a steady, warm temperature. Healthy plant life also means healthy, happy fish. Choose your filtration system. A filter is a tank necessity as it removes debris from the water, keeping it safe for your fish. You have three options: biological, mechanical, chemical, or a combination. Some filters even include built-in heaters to process and release cleaned, heated water back into the tank. Biological filters use biomatter (microorganisms, etc.) to digest and remove contaminants. There are canister filters with biomatter contained inside. Or, even natural sponges that float in the water with biomatter growing on them. Mechanical filtration involves water flowing through a device that captures debris and holds it. Chemical filtration uses activated carbon to extract toxins from the water. The carbon is usually contained in a canister container, often being both a mechanical and chemical filter in one. “Cycle” your tank. Use room temperature water and fill up the tank. Don't pour the water in directly. Instead, use your hand or a plate to deflect it to the side of the tank then down, keeping your gravel intact. Add a few drops of water conditioner, or specifically a dechlorinator, to neutralize chemicals found in tap water that are dangerous to fish. To complete the cycle, you need to let the tank sit for at least 24 hours. Adding the fish. Float the plastic bag containing the fish (or other container) in the tank for at least 15 minutes. Then, at 5-10 minute intervals, put a little tank water into the bag. After this process is done, net the fish one-by-one and place them in the aquarium. You should not add the bag water into the aquarium. You can dispose of it. The goal is to create a controlled, relaxed transport in order to minimise trauma and stress to your fish. Feed on a schedule. Overfeeding is a common mistake as fish will always try to gorge themselves on food. Aim to feed your fish twice daily, so pick two times that work for you and stick to them. Only feed your fish what they can consume in a minute or two. Use a net to remove all extra food from the water's surface. Control the amount given by dropping in “pinches” of food at a time. Go slowly. Fish food If you are out of town you can set up a feeding block or automatic feeder. Some people also choose to use a feed/fast schedule. They do not feed their fish for one day out of the week. This is not harmful and can lead to a cleaner tank. Clean the tank bi-weekly. Use your gravel siphon to remove between 25-50% of the water (depending on your tank and fish species) out of the tank and into a clean bucket. As you siphon, try to remove as much debris around the gravel as you can. Remove and scrub any plants or decorations. Remove algae from the glass using your siphon and an algae pad. Fill another bucket with tap water, add water conditioner, and let it sit for a few minutes. Refill the tank with the treated water. You will want to unplug your filter and remove and rinse your filter pads. Use the water removed from the tank for rinsing as direct tap water will kill all the good bacteria. Make sure to unplug your heater or keep it lowered into the tank water during this process. Wipe down the outside of the tank with a paper towel or cotton rag after you are finished. Monitor the temperature. Get a stick-on thermometer and place it on the outside of the tank. Monitor the temperature on a daily basis, just by taking a quick glance. You should generally keep the tank between 76 to 80 degrees. If the temperature is off, you may need to think about changing your heater or the location of the tank. Invest in a water testing kit. You can purchase a simple kit at most pet and aquarium stores. It will contain testing supplies for ammonia, nitrate, nitrite, alkalinity, and water hardness. It will also contain information about the safe limits of these various elements. A kit will take of the guesswork away from maintaining your water. Ammonia is particularly toxic and dangerous as it originates from the feces of fish. It can cause stress and death. Another reason to monitor and maintain a functioning filtration system. Address any problems immediately. Go to the few pet store to stock up on extra supplies (filters, etc.) just in case. If you notice cloudy water, for example, you want to test the water right away. Keep an eye out for other visual signs of trouble, such as dead fish or frayed fish. You may need to isolate sick fish and dead fish need to be removed. | Research different fish species. Consider your experience level. Take notice of compatibility. Watch overcrowding. Make the purchase. Choose a tank location. Add gravel. Install your heater and light. Choose your filtration system. “Cycle” your tank. Adding the fish. Feed on a schedule. Clean the tank bi-weekly. Monitor the temperature. Invest in a water testing kit. Address any problems immediately. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-a-Programming-Language | How to Learn a Programming Language | To learn a programming language, consider starting out with a simpler language, like Python or Ruby, to introduce you to basic programming concepts. Regardless of the programming language you want to learn, use online tutorials to guide you when you're first getting started. Also, try to set aside time every day to practice since regular practice will help you pick up on the language faster. You can also participate in online programming forums to meet other programmers and learn helpful tips and tricks. | Determine your area of interest. You can start learning with any programming language (though some are definitely "easier" than others), so you'll want to start by asking yourself what it is you want to accomplish by learning a programming language. This will help you determine what type of programming you should pursue, and provide you a good starting point. If you want to get into web development, you'll have a whole different set of languages that you'll need to learn as opposed to developing computer programs. Mobile app developing requires a different skillset than machine programming. All of these decisions will influence your direction. Consider starting with a "simpler" language. Regardless of your decision, you may want to consider starting with one of the high-level, simpler languages. These languages are especially useful for beginners, as they teach basic concepts and thought processes that can apply to virtually any language. The two most popular languages in this category are Python and Ruby. These are both object-oriented web application languages that use a very readable syntax. "Object-oriented" means that the language is built around the concepts of "objects", or collections of data, and their manipulation. This is a concept that is used in many advanced programming languages such as C++, Java, Objective-C, and PHP. Read through some basic tutorials for a variety of languages. If you're still not sure which language you should start learning, read through some tutorials for a few different languages. If one language makes a bit more sense than the others, try it out for a bit to see if it clicks. There are countless tutorials for every programming available online, including many on wikiHow: Python - A great starter language that is also quite powerful when you get familiar with it. Used for many web applications and a number of games. Java - Used in countless types of programs, from games to web applications to ATM software. HTML - An essential starting place for any web developer. Having a handle on HTML is vital before moving on to any other sort of web development. C - One of the older languages, C is still a powerful tool, and is the basis for the more modern C++, C#, and Objective-C. Learn the core concepts of the language. While the parts of this step that apply will vary depending on the language you choose, all programming languages have fundamental concepts that are essential to building useful programs. Learning and mastering these concepts early will make it easier to solve problems and create powerful and efficient code. Below are just some of the core concepts found in many different languages: Variables - A variable is a way to store and refer to changing pieces of data. Variables can be manipulated, and often have defined types such as "integers", "characters", and others, which determine the type of data that can be stored. When coding, variables typically have names that make them somewhat identifiable to a human reader. This makes it easier to understand how the variable interacts with the rest of the code. Conditional Statements - A conditional statement is an action that is performed based on whether the statement is true or not. The most common form of a conditional statement is the "If-Then" statement. If the statement is true (e.g. x = 5) then one thing happens. If the statement is false (e.g. x != 5), then something else happens. Functions or Subroutines - The actual name for this concept may be called something different depending on the language. It could also be "Procedure", a "Method", or a "Callable Unit". This is essentially a smaller program within a larger program. A function can be "called" by the program multiple times, allowing the programmer to efficiently create complex programs. Data input - This is a broad concept that is used in nearly every language. It involves handling a user's input as well as storing that data. How that data is gathered depend on the type of program and the inputs available to the user (keyboard, file, etc.). This is closely linked to Output, which is how the result is returned to the user, be it displayed on the screen or delivered in a file. Install any necessary software. Many programming languages require compilers, which are programs designed to translate the code into a language that the machine can understand. Other languages, such as Python, use an interpreter which can execute the programs instantly without compiling. Some languages have IDEs (Integrated Development Environment) which usually contain a code editor, a compiler and/or interpreter, and a debugger. This allows the programmer to perform any necessary function in one place. IDEs may also contain visual representations of object hierarchies and directories. There are a variety of code editors available online. These programs offer different ways of highlighting syntax and provide other developer-friendly tools. Focus on one concept at a time. One of the first programs taught for any language is the "Hello World" program. This is a very simple program that displays the text "Hello, World" (or some variation), on the screen. This program teaches first-time programmers the syntax to create a basic, functioning program, as well as how to handle displaying output. By changing the text, you can learn how basic data is handled by the program. Below are some wikiHow guides on creating a "Hello World" program in various languages: Hello World in Python Hello World in Ruby Hello World in C Hello World in PHP Hello World in C# Hello World in Java Learn through deconstruction of online examples. There are thousands of code examples online for virtually every programming languages. Use these examples to examine how various aspects of the language work and how different parts interact. Take bits and pieces from various examples to create your own programs. Examine the syntax. The syntax is the way the language is written so that the compiler or interpreter can understand it. Each language has a unique syntax, though some elements may be shared across multiple languages. Learning the syntax is essential for learning how to program in the language, and is often what people think of when they think about computer programming. In reality, it is simply the foundation upon which more advanced concepts are built. Experiment with changes. Make changes to your example programs and then test the result. By experimenting, you can learn what works and what doesn't much quicker than by reading a book or guide. Don't be afraid to break your program; learning to fix errors is a major part of any development process, and new things almost never work right the first time. Start practicing debugging. When you're programming, you're invariably going to come across bugs. These are errors in the program, and can manifest virtually anywhere. Bugs can be harmless quirks in the program, or they can be major errors that keep the program from compiling or running. Hunting down and fixing these errors is a major process in the software development cycle, so get used to doing this early. As you experiment with changing basic programs, you're going to come across things that don't work. Figuring out how to take a different approach is one of the most valuable skills you can have as a programmer. Comment all of your code. Nearly all programming languages have a "comment" function that allows you to include text that is not processed by the interpreter or compiler. This allows you to leave short, but clear, human-language explanations of what the code does. This will not only help you remember what your code does in a large program, it is an essential practice in a collaborative environment, as it allows others to understand what your code is doing. Code daily. Mastering a programming language takes time above all else. Even a simpler language like Python, which may only take a day or two to understand the basic syntax, takes lots of time to become truly proficient at. Like any other skill, practice is the key to becoming more proficient. Try to spend at least some time each day coding, even if it's only for an hour between work and dinner. Set goals for your programs. By setting attainable but challenging goals , you will be able to start solving problems and coming up with solutions. Try to think of a basic application, such as a calculator, and develop a way to make it. Use the syntax and concepts you've been learning and apply them to practical uses. Talk with others and read other programs. There are lots of programming communities dedicated to specific languages or disciplines. Finding and participating in a community can do wonders for your learning. You will gain access to a variety of samples and tools that can aid you in your learning process. Reading other programmers' code can inspire you and help you grasp concepts that you haven't mastered yet. Check out programming forums and online communities for your language of choice. Make sure to participate and not just constantly ask questions. These communities are usually viewed as a place of collaboration and discussion and not simply Q&A. Feel free to ask for help, but be prepared to show your work and be open to trying different approaches. Once you have some experience under your belt, consider attending a hack-a-thon or programming jam. These are events where individuals or teams compete against the clock to develop a functional program, usually based around a specific theme. These events can be a lot of fun and are a great way to meet other programmers. Challenge yourself to keep it fun. Try to do things that you don't know how to do yet. Research ways to accomplish the task (or a similar one), and then try to implement that in your own program. Try to avoid being content with a program that "basically" works; do everything you can to make sure every aspect works flawlessly. Take a few training courses. Many universities, community colleges, and community centers offer programming classes and workshops that you can attend without having to enroll in the school. These can be great for new programmers, as you can get hands-on help from an experienced programmer, as well as network with other local programmers. Buy or borrow a book. There are thousands of instructional books available for every conceivable programming language. While your knowledge should not come strictly from a book, they make great references and often contain a lot of good examples. Study math and logic. Most programming involves basic arithmetic, but you may want to study more advanced concepts. This is especially important if you are developing complex simulations or other algorithm-heavy programs. For most day-to-day programming, you don't need much advanced math. Studying logic, especially computer logic, can help you understand how best to approach complex problem solving for more advanced programs. Never stop programming. There is a popular theory that becoming an expert takes at least 10,000 hours of practice. While this is up for debate, the general principle remains true: mastery takes time and dedication. Don't expect to know everything overnight, but if you stay focused and continue to learn, you may very well end up an expert in your field. Learn another programming language. While you can certainly get by with mastering one language, many programmers help their chances of success in the field by learning multiple languages. Their second or third languages are usually complementary to their first one, allowing them to develop more complex and interesting programs. Once you have a good grasp on your first program, it may be time to start learning a new one. You will likely find that learning your second language goes much quicker than the first. Many core concepts of programming carry over across languages, especially if the languages are closely related. Enroll in a four-year program. While not strictly necessary, a four-year program at a college or university can expose you to a variety of different languages, as well as help you network with professionals and other students. This method certainly isn't for everyone, and plenty of successful programmers never attended a four-year institution. Create a portfolio. As you create programs and expand your knowledge, make sure that all of your best work is saved in a portfolio. You can show this portfolio to recruiters and interviewers as an example of the work you do. Make sure to include any work done on your own time, and ensure that you are allowed to include any work done with another company. Do some freelance work. There is a very large freelance market for programmers , especially mobile app developers. Take on a few small freelance jobs to get a feel for how commercial programming works. Oftentimes you can use the freelance jobs to help build your portfolio and point to published work. Develop your own freeware or commercial programs. You don't have to work for a company to make money programming. If you have the skills, you can develop software yourself and release it for purchase , either through your own website or through another marketplace. Be prepared to be able to provide support for any software you release for commercial sale, as customers will expect their purchase to work. Freeware is a popular way to distribute small programs and utilities. The developer doesn't receive any money, but it's a great way to build name recognition and make yourself visible in the community. | Determine your area of interest. Consider starting with a "simpler" language. Read through some basic tutorials for a variety of languages. Learn the core concepts of the language. Install any necessary software. Focus on one concept at a time. Learn through deconstruction of online examples. Examine the syntax. Experiment with changes. Start practicing debugging. Comment all of your code. Code daily. Set goals for your programs. Talk with others and read other programs. Challenge yourself to keep it fun. Take a few training courses. Buy or borrow a book. Study math and logic. Never stop programming. Learn another programming language. Enroll in a four-year program. Create a portfolio. Do some freelance work. Develop your own freeware or commercial programs. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Tree-Sap-Off-Your-Hands | How to Get Tree Sap Off Your Hands | To get tree sap off your hands, rub a little bit of cooking oil onto your skin, scrubbing lightly for 30-60 seconds. If there's still sap on your hands, pour some baking soda directly onto the sticky spot, and mix it with the oil until the sap breaks down. Alternatively, try rubbing some peanut butter onto the sap to help it come off. You can also use toothpaste or rubbing alcohol. Whichever method you use, wash your hands with warm, soapy water when you're finished to get rid of any leftover residue. | Check the ingredients to see if the sanitizer is alcohol-based. Pick up a bottle of hand sanitizer and check the ingredients label on the back of the bottle. Make sure that it contains at least 60% ethanol, isopropyl alcohol, or n-Propanal to be effective. Non-alcohol-based hand sanitizer won't work, since it's the alcohol that dissolves the sap. Rub the hand sanitizer onto your hands to remove the sap. Grab the bottle of sanitizer and squirt a small amount into your palms, then rub it around vigorously. If there is any sap on the back of your hands, make sure you rub it all over your entire hand. If you have sap anywhere else on your skin, like your feet or your arms, you can use the sanitizer there, too. Just be careful not to get sanitizer on any open cuts or sensitive areas of your body, as it could burn. Hand sanitizer with alcohol in it is very drying, so use caution if you have sensitive or flaky skin. Wipe down your saw or pruners with hand sanitizer if they’re sticky. If you used any tools to cut or prune a tree and they have sap on them, squirt a few pumps of hand sanitizer onto a paper towel. Then, wipe down the blades of your tools with the hand sanitizer before you store them. If your tools are sticky, it could dull the blades or even make the tools stick together completely, leaving them unusable. Use cooking oil, like vegetable, olive, or canola, or margarine to get it off. Rub a small bit of oil over your hand, scrubbing lightly over the sappy spots for 30-60seconds. When you're done, wash your hands with warm water and some dish detergent to get the sap off you hands. For particularly difficult patches, pour a little dry baking soda directly onto the sap and rub it in with the oil to break it down. Put a spoonful of peanut butter on your hands. In the same way that it helps remove gum from your hair, the oils in peanut butter are great at removing sap from your hands. Rub it along the covered areas and massage it lightly into your skin. It should begin pulling the sap off your hands, and the rest will be removed after washing your hands with soap and warm water. Out of peanut butter? Try using mayonnaise in the same way. Use toothpaste. Liberally coat the area of sap with toothpaste and scrub it lightly between your hands. The abrasives in the toothpaste should have no problem removing the sap after 1-2 minutes. Wash away the toothpaste with warm water and soap to finish the job. Try rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover for big patches. These two liquids may dry your hands out, but they are incredibly effective. Pour some on a rag or sponge and use it to lightly scrub away the sap. Give it a little time to set in before trying to scrape it off your skin. and be sure to wash your hands with soap and water when you are done. Alcoholic wipes, used in first-aid kits or as a disinfectant are a great portable solution. Try a little WD40. Squirt some of the degreaser into your hands and use it to "wash" your hands as if it was liquid soap. Spend some time scrubbing the sap, which should come right off. Be sure to wash your hands with soap and warm water immediately after finishing. Make bath out of warm water, salt, and honey for a naturally softening clean. Take a large bowl and fill it about 2/3 with warm water. Add 2 tablespoons salt and a liberal squirt of honey and mix it together. You can then soak your hands in the bath for 3-5 minutes, scrubbing them occasionally. Air dry your hands and then wash them with soap and water to get off any remaining sap. Rub some loose dirt in the sap if you are in the wilderness. While the sap is still fresh and wet, rub a little dirt into it. Wait until it dries, when the dirt will make it fragment and keep it from sticking too hard to your skin, You can then use some simple soap and water to remove the sap from your skin. Always test your cleaning solution on a small section of the surface you're cleaning. Do not just spray a bunch of WD40 on some fabric and try and rub it out. Make sure that your solution, no matter what it is, won't ruin your clothing or surface by finding an inconspicuous "test area." Place a small drop of the cleaner on this surface and rub it in. Return 20 minutes later and check to make sure that the surface didn't discolor or warp as a result. Use isopropyl alcohol to get sap out of fabrics. Using cotton-balls dipped in rubbing alcohol (90% whenever possible), rub the sap stain with a circular motion to lift it from the fabric. This works for clothes, carpets, and curtains. Try and remove the sap before washing and drying your clothes, as this can harden the sap and make it impossible to remove. Try mineral oil to remove sap safely from hard surfaces. Mineral oils will gently remove the sap from your car, floors, or any other hard surfaces it might adhere to. The gentle, oil-based cleaner will need to be rubbed into the sap, but it should pull it off quickly. Use bug-spray. Odd as it sounds, a couple of squirts from some powerful bug spray can loosen the sap off of fabrics, flooring, and car roofs. Squirt the surface with spray and let it soak for a few minutes, then try and rub it away. | Check the ingredients to see if the sanitizer is alcohol-based. Rub the hand sanitizer onto your hands to remove the sap. Wipe down your saw or pruners with hand sanitizer if they’re sticky. Use cooking oil, like vegetable, olive, or canola, or margarine to get it off. Put a spoonful of peanut butter on your hands. Use toothpaste. Try rubbing alcohol or nail polish remover for big patches. Try a little WD40. Make bath out of warm water, salt, and honey for a naturally softening clean. Rub some loose dirt in the sap if you are in the wilderness. Always test your cleaning solution on a small section of the surface you're cleaning. Use isopropyl alcohol to get sap out of fabrics. Try mineral oil to remove sap safely from hard surfaces. Use bug-spray. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Classify-Music-by-Genre | How to Classify Music by Genre | To classify music by genre, listen to the instruments and vocals it uses, which are a bit different for each genre. Rock music tends to feature drums and electric guitar, which is sometimes distorted. Country music often has acoustic guitar and singing with a southern twang, which tells a story. Soul and Rhythm and Blues are genres rooted in African American culture, which often have powerful vocals and groovy melodies. You can easily identify rap music from the emphasis on fast vocals over a repeated beat. Electronic music, as the name suggests, uses lots of computers and synthesizers to layer melodies and rhythms. Modern pop music incorporates styles from all of these genres and indicates music in the charts or on the radio. | Classify rock music. Rock n' roll is a broad form of pop music that contains nearly a hundred spin offs and subgenres. The characteristic sound of rock n' roll is a strong beat, simple (sometimes advanced) chord structure, and played loudly. Rock n' roll was born in the 1950s out of rhythm and blues. It typically features an electric guitar (sometimes distorted), drums, bass, and vocals. There are several variations of rock n' roll that makes defining the genre difficult. Some of the early rock pioneers are The Kinks, Rolling Stones, The Beatles, Buddy Holly, and Bo Diddley. Rock n' roll evolved through the 1960s, 1970s, and each following decade. In the 1970s, punk rock was born. In the 1980s, metal and hair metal was born. In the 1990s, grunge hit the scene as well as countless other styles. If you hear a song with a strong beat and personality, you might be correct to classify it as rock. Identify top 40 pop music. Top 40 is a way of tracking the success of a pop song, based on listeners and popularity. Today top 40 has turned into a genre of pop of its own. Its music is written by songwriters and produced by a music corporation. The easiest way to find this music is by skimming through your radio stations until you find the “pop” station. The songs of top 40, more than any other genre, are designed to be catchy and get stuck in your head. With this idea embedded into the songwriting process, top 40 songs typically have a grandiose chorus that repeats several times. Some popular figures of top 40 hits are Justin Bieber, Katy Perry, Taylor Swift, and Keke Palmer. Classify country music. Country music, like all other genres, continues to grow and develop into subgenres. Country music's strongest emphasis is the narrative of the song. The song remains in a pop song format with a verse and chorus. It is also characteristic for the singer to have a bit (or a lot) of twang. Since country music is fixated more on the song's narrative, instruments play less of a role. Instruments popular in country music are acoustic guitars, pedal steel guitars, and other folk instruments. The roots of country start with the honky tonk days of the 1950s. The most celebrated star from this decade is Hank Williams. Folk music is another popular subgenre of country. Folk music takes the narrative focus of country and intensifies the storytelling. Popular folk musicians are Woody Guthrie and Bob Dylan. Understand soul and R&B. Soul and rhythm & blues are genres of music inspired by gospel and blues music. These genres represent a larger umbrella of genres of music created by African Americans. Soul music is characterized by powerful vocals and a catchy groove accompanying it. R&B is another large genre that has roots in the 1950s and transformed around the late 1980s into a catchier form of pop. Early soul pioneers include Solomon Burke, Ben E. King, and Aretha Franklin. Early R&B started in a minimal style like Big Joe Turner and Fats Domino. The genre took on more influences in the 1960s with the Mar-Keys and James Brown. Later R&B took on a hip hop influence with artists like Mary J. Blige and Boyz II Men. Another influential genre that took shape under these genres is funk. Funk is all about being exceptionally groovy. Listen to artists like Funkadelic, 1970s era James Brown, and Sly Stone and the Family Stone. Identify rap and hip hop. Rap and hip hop has an easy indicator to tell you what genre you're listening to. The name comes from the vocalist rapping over the beat. Rap is a form of poetry that accompanies music. Rap and hip hop got its start in the late 1970s with acts like Grandmaster Flash and Blowfly. The genre evolved, and continues to evolve. Today rap is a major influence on pop music. Some examples of rap's subgenres are gangsta, trap, chicano, and ghetto house. Classify electronic music. Electronic music is another umbrella that can crossover into multiple genres. The key indicator of electronic pop music is the heavy reliance on synthesizers or computers. Synthesizers became accessible to artist in the 1970s, which can be heard on Herbie Hancock's 1973 hit, “Chameleon.” Electronic music has developed into several genres of popular music. In the 1990s, techno became a popular dance music that is still happening. Techno evolved into EDM and dubstep, which are both popular. There is electronic aspects in a vast amount of music being produced today. Know experimental music’s roots. Experimental music began to take shape in the early to mid 1900s with the rising influence of Black Mountain College. Several classically trained composers began to experiment with what it means to write a composition. Today several artists and musicians take a pop genre, like techno, and experiment with it. The result, if done successfully, is an entirely different sound. An example is Stockhausen's “Helicopter String Quartet,” which requires four helicopters and each member of the quartet to occupy a separate helicopter while playing in unison. Determine a blend in pop and experimental music. Since the 1960s, certain musicians have been interested in blurring the line between a conventional pop song and something completely different. There is a trend in psychedelic experimental music to disrupt pop conventions. Bands like Acid Mother Temple do this by creating a hook through a melody and then branch off into a cosmic jam. Captain Beefheart's infamous album, Trout Mask Replica, is a fully composed album, but the record sounds like improvisation and insanity. Identify ambient music. In the mid 1970s, when the synthesizer were beginning to build momentum, certain artist found a new way to use the instrument. Being inspired from Indian ragas and other types of droning Eastern classical music, ambient music creates an atmosphere for the listener. Brian Eno popularized ambient music with compositions like “Music for Airports,” which was composed to be played in airports. Another interesting cross genre is noise music. Noise music is loud and chaotic, but it oftentimes creates a consistent ambient wall of sound. Know minimalist music. Minimalist music refers to a specific scene of musicians in the 1960s up to the present day, who wrote music “minimally.” The term itself does not fairly describe the music. Minimalist music is best characterized by several “minimal” layers of music stacked on top of each other to create something incredibly complex. Philip Glass wrote an opera called “Einstein on the Beach,” which embodies this idea of stacking minimal melodies to create something massive. Other pioneers of the genre, Steve Reich and Terry Riley, have their own style of creating minimalist music. Look at the time period the piece of music was written. For classical music, much of the classification relies heavily on what century the piece was written. Typically when people talk about “classical music” they are referring to European music. The date of a piece of music can tell you information about the art movement the piece was written. Art movements act, in a way, as genres for classical music. To best understand classical music and its characteristics, learn the different art movements. Identify early classical music. Early classical music refers to music created by monks and Roman Catholic church officials before the 9th century. The earliest example of this style is the Gregorian Chants. Legend claims the chants were written by Pope Gregory, but scholars are now skeptical of this claim. The chants were performed by a group of monks. This is the first time music was written down in musical notation and features melodies to be sung along with words (in Latin). A good indicator that music is from this time period is if it is a cappella and sung in Latin. Classify Baroque music. The Baroque era is best exemplified as being artistically grandiose and features elaborate decorations. The influence of the church started to weaken in this era, which roughly lasts from 1600 to 1750. The Baroque era birthed orchestral music and opera. Another key sound of the Baroque era is the harpsichord. The harpsichord is played like a piano, but instead of hitting the strings with soft mallets, the strings are plucked like a harp. This gives the harpsichord a unique and sharp tone. Identify the “classical” movement. The classical period contains some of the most identifiable pieces of music. This is the era of recognizable composers like Mozart, Beethoven, Haydn, and Schubert. Classical music is known for its finely tuned attention to detail and structural clarity. Instead of a rococo style of decorative detail, music from the classical age focused on symmetry and sensibility. This era runs parallel with the intellectual movement called the Enlightenment. The Enlightenment birthed the rising belief that human reasoning can overcome problems of the world. This influenced the way composers treated compositions. Identify the Romantic era. The Romantic era of music lasted from 1820 up into the 20th century, ending roughly in 1915. Key identifiers of music from this era are its implications of fantasy, spontaneity, and sensuality. The artistic movement itself was centralized on the idea of fleeting back to nature due to the Industrial Revolution. Another popular concept explored in the Romantic period was color. Composers began viewing the orchestra as a palette that could depict an array of exotic scenes. A sub-movement within the Romantic era is Impressionism. Similar to Impressionist painters like Monet, composers attempted to imprint an impression on the listener. For example, Erik Satie wrote a series of compositions called “furniture music,” which was the first time someone wrote music intended to be in the background. Understand modern classical music. Music from the end of the Romantic period, around 1915, into the 20th century is considered modern classical music. Modern music is exemplified by various moods of extreme. Since the history of music styles are so vast, composers of this era attempted to break new grounds with their compositions. For example, Igor Stravinsky broke new grounds by composing a ballet about a pagan myth. The premiere nearly caused a riot from the audience. The modern movement also birthed experimental music with such figures like John Cage and Karlheinz Stockhausen. Learn key figures and pieces of classical music. Take a look at the various movements and determine if you can name a piece of music or composer from each period. A good way to practice learning the different eras is by reading about the time period while listening to a piece of music from that movement. For music students, it is required to identify a piece of music based off a sound clip. Here are some pieces that accompany each time era: Early classical music is best heard in the Gregorian Chants and other choral music. Baroque music has two heavyweights: Bach and Handel. Bach's cello suite no.1 in G might be his most recognizable. The classical period has several popular composers. Popular pieces from this era include Mozart's Eine Kleine Nachtmusik or Beethoven's Symphony No. 9. For the Romantic era, listen to Liszt's Liebestraum or Chopin's Etude Opus 25. Modern music is so vast, but some key pieces are Stravinsky's The Rite of Spring and John Cage's 4'33. | Classify rock music. Identify top 40 pop music. Classify country music. Understand soul and R&B. Identify rap and hip hop. Classify electronic music. Know experimental music’s roots. Determine a blend in pop and experimental music. Identify ambient music. Know minimalist music. Look at the time period the piece of music was written. Identify early classical music. Classify Baroque music. Identify the “classical” movement. Identify the Romantic era. Understand modern classical music. Learn key figures and pieces of classical music. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-Flooring | How to Measure Flooring | To measure flooring, start by measuring the length and width of the room. Then, multiply the 2 numbers together to get the area in square feet. If the room you're measuring the floors in isn't a rectangle or square, divide it into smaller segments that are, and calculate the area of each segment. Once you have all of the individual areas, add them together to get the total area of the room. Don't forget to include closet space and subtract the area of any obstructions, like a kitchen island or support beam. | Map out the entire floorspace. Look around at all the floor that will need to be covered. This includes everything bordered by walls, but also less obvious places like the floor inside of closets. Sketch the floorspace out on a sheet of paper for reference. Measure the length and width of the room. Run a tape measure down one side of the room to get its length. Move the tape measure and record the other wall in the same way. Write these measurements down on the sketch you made for reference. If there aren't any obstructions or unusual aspects to the room, the length and width will be enough to calculate the area. Multiply to get the area. Take the length and multiply it by the width to get the area of floor space in square units. For instance, if one wall is 10 feet (3.0 m) and the other is 8 feet (2.4 m), multiply these to get a total floor space area of 80 feet (24 m) square. If there are any closets, obstructions, or angled areas in the room, you'll start with this basic area and adjust it with a few more calculations to get the actual total amount of floor space. Use an online calculator for a quick solution. If you have a simple room with no obstructions or unusual shapes, look up an online floor space calculator. Enter the length and width measurements, and the calculator will compute the area. Divide non-rectangular rooms into smaller segments. It the room is not simply a rectangle or square, you can cut it into a series of smaller, imaginary portions. Take the length and width of these, calculate the area of each segment, then add everything together to get the total floorspace area. For instance, imagine you have an “L” shaped room: The long part of the “L” is 14 feet (4.3 m) long and 8 feet (2.4 m) on one end and 12 feet (3.7 m) on the other. The other walls on the part of the “L” that sticks out are 6 feet (1.8 m) and 4 feet (1.2 m) long. This means you can divide the room into two rectangles. One will be 14 feet (4.3 m) by 8 feet (2.4 m). The other will be 6 feet (1.8 m) by 4 feet (1.2 m). Calculating the area of each rectangle, then adding the sums together gives you a total floorspace of 136 feet (41 m) square. Add any extra floorspace area. If you have something like floor space on the interior of a closet, calculate this separately, then add it to your total. If there is a 2 feet (0.61 m) by 3 feet (0.91 m) closet off of your “L” shaped room for instance, add its area of 6 feet (1.8 m) square to the main floor area to get a total of 142 feet (43 m) square. Account for any angular areas. Plan on buying extra flooring to account for these. That way you'll have enough material. For instance: Imagine you have a bay window that juts out in a trapezoidal shape. The base of this trapezoid (an imaginary line going from one end of its widest point to the other) is 4 feet (1.2 m). The height of the trapezoid (the distance from the imaginary line of the base to the point where the wall starts under the window) is 0.5 feet (0.15 m). Multiply these measurements to get a hypothetical rectangle with an area of 2 feet (0.61 m) square. The sides of the trapezoid will angle inwards, making the actual area less than 2 feet (0.61 m) square. You'll cut the flooring material to fit the trapezoid later, and discard the excess. Subtract the area of any obstructions on the floor. Check your floorspace and see there are things like a kitchen island, support beam, or floor vents that will not need to be covered by flooring. Subtract the area of these obstructions from the total area of floorspace to get the actual amount you need covered. Account for extra material. Take your total floor space area and multiply it by 1.05 for a 5 percent increase or 1.1 for a 10 percent increase. This ensures you buy enough material, whatever kind you're using, to have extra in case you need it. For instance, if the total floor space is 142 feet (43 m) square, a 5 percent increase would give you 149.1 feet (45.4 m) square. A 10 percent increase would give you 156.2 feet (47.6 m) square. Having extra material is a safeguard against mistakes or damages that occur either during installation or later. You can always replace the ruined piece with new material if you have extra on hand. Purchase your boxes of flooring. Check boxes of flooring to see how much area they cover. Buy enough to meet or exceed the amount of floor space (plus extra) you need covered. Divide the total area you want covered by the amount each box of flooring covers to find the number of boxes you need. Add a box if there is any remainder. For instance, if each box of flooring covers 10 feet (3.0 m) square, and you have 149.1 feet (45.4 m) square to cover, you'll need 15 boxes (149.1 divided by 10 is 14.91). Buy enough rolls of carpeting, alternatively. Carpeting is sold by the roll, but you can easily calculate the amount you'll need. For instance, if you are covering the area in carpeting that is sold in rolls 10 feet (3.0 m) wide, for example, you'll need a roll that's at least 14.91 feet (4.54 m) long, which would equal the total floor area you're covering. Calculate the number of tiles you’ll need, if applicable. If you are covering your floor in tile (or some other material sold in pieces), divide the area of flooring by the area of an individual tile to determine how many you'll need. For example: If you are using tiles that are 0.5 feet (0.15 m) square, and you want to cover a room that is 80 feet (24 m) square, you'll need 160 tiles (80 divided by 0.5 equals 160. Add 10 percent extra as a precaution, to equal a total of 176 tiles. | Map out the entire floorspace. Measure the length and width of the room. Multiply to get the area. Use an online calculator for a quick solution. Divide non-rectangular rooms into smaller segments. Add any extra floorspace area. Account for any angular areas. Subtract the area of any obstructions on the floor. Account for extra material. Purchase your boxes of flooring. Buy enough rolls of carpeting, alternatively. Calculate the number of tiles you’ll need, if applicable. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Crispy-Cream-Cheese-Wontons | How to Make Crispy Cream Cheese Wontons | To make crispy cream cheese wontons, start by softening some cream cheese at room temperature for 30 minutes. Then, mix minced green onion into the softened cream cheese and spoon the mixture onto some wonton wrappers. Next, fold the wonton wrappers over the filling so they look like stuffed triangles. Finally, fry the wontons in oil for around 1 minute before serving them. | Prepare the filling. Take ½ cup of cream cheese and let it sit out in room temperature for around thirty minutes to soften it a bit. Remove the end and top part off one green onion. If the green onion is a thick one, slice the thick stem in two. Now, finely mince the green onion and add ¼ cup of the minced green onion to the cream cheese. Add a few grinds of black pepper and salt and mix together thoroughly. Alternatively, you can also opt for a sweet tasting filling using white onions and sugar. Fill and fold the wontons. Take a wonton wrapper and lay it in front of you and spread thinly about ½ to 1 teaspoon of the cream cheese mixture in the middle of the wonton sheet. Take a little water (or egg paste) and coat the edges of the sheet with your finger. Fold over into a triangle, sealing all the edges securely. Continue filling and folding until you finish your cream cheese mixture. Fry the wontons. Heat your frying oil to 325-350ºF (160-175ºC). You will know when the oil is hot enough when you start to see smoke rising from the oil surface or little squiggly lines in the oil. Drop your wontons slowly into the hot oil. Since you can eat the cream cheese filling uncooked, you only need to fry the wontons until they turn golden brown. This might take about thirty to fifty seconds or up to two full minutes, depending on your oil temperature. Drain and serve. Carefully remove the golden wontons and place on a paper towel to let the oil drain off. The wontons will still be cooking a few moments even after removing them from the oil. Once they dry off a bit, they are ready to eat and enjoy. Finished. | Prepare the filling. Fill and fold the wontons. Fry the wontons. Drain and serve. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-Hair-from-Breaking-Off | How to Prevent Hair from Breaking Off | To prevent your hair from breaking off, try to wash your hair no more than 3 times a week to keep it from drying out. Additionally, use a shampoo advertised as “anti-breakage” or “repair" to help seal your split ends Then, follow up with a conditioner that includes strengthening proteins, and use a deep conditioner once a week to renew and repair your hair You should also reduce your usage of heat styling tools, like blow dryers and curling irons, which can weaken your hair and make it more prone to breakage. | Wash with a restorative shampoo to strengthen your hair. Hydrating shampoos don't strip away your hair's natural oils. Look for a product advertised as “anti-breakage,” “strengthening,” “restorative,” or “repair.” To apply, wet your hair in the shower and pour a coin-sized amount of shampoo into your palm. Massage it into your scalp and roots, then rinse well under cold water. These shampoos will help to seal your split ends and thicken your hair while keeping it shiny. Make sure that you rinse your hair thoroughly both before and after you apply the shampoo. Use a strengthening conditioner to moisturize the ends of your hair. Look for a conditioner that includes strengthening proteins and that's specialized for your hair type. Pour a dollop into your palm and smooth it over your strands, from about mid-length to tips. Rinse off with cool water. Use a deep conditioner once a week to renew and repair your hair. While your hair is still wet, rub a quarter-sized amount of deep conditioner between your hands. Gently massage it into your hair from mid-length to tips. Then, pin your hair back and let it soak in for 10-30 minutes. You can place a shower cap over your head to keep the deep conditioner in place. To save time, wash and deep condition your hair at the beginning of your shower. Leave the conditioner in place while you wash your body and rinse it out at the end of your shower using cool water. Look for a deep conditioner that matches your hair type, whether that's fine, thick, natural, or curly. Dry your hair with a microfiber towel to avoid frizz-causing friction. The usual terry-cloth towels can create friction that damages your hair, causing split ends. Blot your hair dry with a microfiber towel instead, which soaks up excess moisture without leaving your hair too dry. Avoid rubbing your hair with the towel, which can cause breakage as well. Install a showerhead filter to sift harsh minerals out of your water (optional). Washing your hair with “hard water”—water that contains minerals like chlorine magnesium and calcium—can damage your hair cuticles, which can weaken your hair and cause breakage. Installing a simple filtered showerhead can wash these minerals out, keeping your hair strong, soft, and shiny. You can buy filtered showerheads online and in home stores. They can range in price from $30-$100. To find out whether you have hard water in your home, check your filter for a white film. This is left behind by minerals during evaporation, indicating that you have hard water. You can also search local news sources for information on local hard water. Search “[your area] hard water.” Wash your hair 3 times a week to avoid drying it out. Over-washing your hair can strip it of natural oils, leaving it more vulnerable to damage and breakage. Depending on your hair type, try to wash it as little as possible—3 times a week is a good standard to shoot for. If your hair gets oily more quickly, try a dry shampoo for a quick clean that won't cause damage. Limit your heat styling to 1-2 times per week. Using a blow dryer, straightening iron, or curling iron can weaken your hair and make it more prone to breakage, especially when you use them on a daily basis. Help your hair recuperate and take a break by limiting your heat styling to once or twice a week. When you do style with a heat tool, make sure to apply a heat protecting spray or cream first. Allow your hair to air dry a few times a week, such as on days when you aren't in a rush. Use soft-bristled brushes rather than plastic ones. Brushes with plastic bristles can be rough on your hair, causing strands to fray and break. Choose a soft paddle brush instead, which will be more gentle on your hair while still detangling effectively. Using a gentle comb is especially important if you do a lot of teasing or backcombing to create volume. Avoid wearing tight hairstyles too often. Tight ponytails and buns can weaken your hair both at the hair elastic and near your roots, especially if you wear do the same style everyday. Mix it up and give your hair a break by leaving your strands down or tying them back in a loose bun or braid. Make sure your hair doesn't get caught under the strap of your shoulder bag, either; the strain can cause breakage. Move your hair to your other shoulder before pulling on your bag. Use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction on your hair. Common cotton pillowcases can cause friction between your hair and the fabric, causing breakage. Using a satin or silk pillowcase instead will reduce this risk and help cut down on frizz as well. As an alternative, you could wrap your hair in a silk or satin scarf before going to bed. Get haircuts frequently to keep your ends neat. Exactly how often you should get a trim will depend on your hair type, but maintaining a regular schedule will help prevent split ends from worsening and breaking off. Talk to your hair stylist to see how often you should get a trim to keep your hair healthy. Get more frequent cuts, every 4 weeks, if you have a short cut, fine hair, or strands that have sustained damage from coloring or other chemical processes. For fine or medium curls and longer styles, try to go in for a trim every 8-12 weeks. If you have tight, coarse curls, you can get a cut about once every 12 weeks. Eat a healthy diet with lots of protein to keep your hair strong. Your diet has a big impact on how strong and shiny your hair is! Eating healthy and filling your diet with lots of protein will keep your hair strong, shiny, and resistant to breakage. Great foods for healthy hair include: Fish like salmon and halibut Fruit like tangerines and guavas Eggs Oatmeal Greek yogurt Spinach Nuts, seeds, and chickpeas | Wash with a restorative shampoo to strengthen your hair. Use a strengthening conditioner to moisturize the ends of your hair. Use a deep conditioner once a week to renew and repair your hair. Dry your hair with a microfiber towel to avoid frizz-causing friction. Install a showerhead filter to sift harsh minerals out of your water (optional). Wash your hair 3 times a week to avoid drying it out. Limit your heat styling to 1-2 times per week. Use soft-bristled brushes rather than plastic ones. Avoid wearing tight hairstyles too often. Use a silk pillowcase to reduce friction on your hair. Get haircuts frequently to keep your ends neat. Eat a healthy diet with lots of protein to keep your hair strong. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Freeze-Lemons | How to Freeze Lemons | To freeze a whole lemon, place it into a resealable plastic bag. Force as much air as you can out of the bag, then place the lemons into the freezer. To make frozen lemon slices, use a sharp knife to cut the lemons, then lay the slices on a cookie sheet and place them in the freezer for 2-3 hours. Once the lemons are frozen completely, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container and return them to the freezer. | Place lemons in a zip lock bag. Put your lemons into a zip lock bag. Zip the bag 3/4 of the way and force all excess air out of the bag. Once there's no air in the bag, zip it all the way. Forcing out the air will help keep your lemons fresh and free up space in your freezer. Put the bag of lemons in the freezer. Let your bag of lemons sit in the freezer until they are fully frozen. Depending on the temperature of your freezer, this could take anywhere from 2 hours to overnight. Use fresh lemons for meals that you are making later in the week, and freeze the other lemons well in advance of when you need to use them. Submerge lemons in cold water for 10 minutes to defrost them. Whole lemons that are defrosted will often be mushy, and you'll be unable to slice them. This softness makes them unsuitable as a garnish. However, you will still be able to use the zest or juice of the lemon. Lemons will stay good for three to four months in the freezer. Cut your lemon into slices or wedges. Cutting your lemon into pieces before you freeze them will circumvent the soft consistency of the lemon so that you can use it in things like cocktails and garnishes. Cut the lemon on a cutting board width-wise about a 1/4 of an inch (6.35 millimeters) to create lemon slices. To cut the lemon in wedges, make one cut lengthwise and one cut width wise. This will create four same-sized lemon wedges. You can also cut lemon slices in half to create crescent-shaped lemon slices. Lay your lemon slices on a cookie sheet and place in freezer. Ensure that the lemon slices have free space in between them. Putting your lemon slices on a cookie sheet will allow them to freeze individually. If you skip this step, your lemon slices or wedges will freeze together in one block. Keep the slices of lemon the freezer for 2-3 hours, or until the lemons are frozen completely. You will know when your lemons are frozen when they are hard, and the pulp no longer creates juice when you press down on it. Transfer the lemons to a zip lock bag. After your lemons are completely frozen, you can transfer them to a ziplock bag to free up space in your freezer. Place the zip lock bag back into the freezer and take out slices as you need them. Use a grater, zester, or microplane to zest lemons. The zest of a lemon is the skin and includes the natural oils that occur in the lemon. To extract the lemon's zest, use a kitchen tool to get the yellow peel off of the surface of the lemon. You can also remove the zest from the peel of the lemon after you freeze whole lemons. Place the zest in a zip lock bag. Once you're done zesting your lemons, transfer the zest to a zip lock or freezer bag. You can use the rest of the lemons in recipes that you make during the week, or you can slice them and freeze as well. Place the bag inside of a freezer. Allow the zest to sit in the freezer for a couple of hours or overnight until it all freezes. When you are ready to use it, you can take out what you need and place the rest back into the freezer. Zesting lemons after they are frozen will help keep the rind oils from spraying onto your cutting board. Juice your lemons. Juice your lemons using a reamer or juicer that you can pick up at many department stores. If you don't have a reamer or juicer, you can quarter the lemons and push down on the pulp with a fork to extract some of the juice. The goal is to squish the pulp and extract the liquid that is in the fruit. Measure 1 cup (236.5 milliliters) of lemon juice. Pour your lemon juice into a measuring cup carefully over a sink. Measuring out your lemon juice will allow you to keep more precise measurements for recipes. Make sure to remove any seeds that may have come loose when you juiced your lemon. Pour the lemon juice into ice cube trays. As you pour your lemon juice into the ice cube trays, make sure to take note of how many ice cubes constitute a full cup. This will enable you to make more accurate measurements when you have to use the lemon juice in particular recipes. These lemon juice ice cubes can also flavor water. Place ice cubes in the freezer and allow them to freeze. Allow your ice cubes to sit in the freezer until they fully freeze. If you don't freeze freshly squeezed lemon juice, it can go bad in two to four days. Keeping your lemon juice frozen in ice cubes will allow you to keep the lemon juice fresh for a longer period. If you need to use your ice trays, you can transfer the lemon juice cubes to a zip lock bag. Wash your hands before handling food. Use a hand soap and warm water and scrub your hands clean. Unwashed hands could introduce toxins and bacteria to the peel of the fruit. You can also use gloves to avoid introducing things to the lemons. Scrub the lemons with a brush. Use a toothbrush, nail brush, or vegetable brush to scrub the surface of the lemon. Make sure to designate this tool to solely cleaning vegetables or fruit from now on. This will get off all the dirt and potential chemicals off the surface of the fruit. Wash your lemons. Before you freeze your lemons, you want to run them under cold water to remove pesticides from them. You can also use a vegetable cleaner or wash to clean off your vegetables. Once your lemons are clean, dry them off with a rag or paper towel. Use a vinegar solution to remove pesticides from your lemons. Lemons and other fruit can contain harmful chemicals like pesticides on the surface of the lemon. Remove the chemicals by soaking them in a solution of 10% vinegar to 90% water for 15 to 20 minutes. Once they are done soaking, rinse them under cold water and dry them with a rag. | Place lemons in a zip lock bag. Put the bag of lemons in the freezer. Submerge lemons in cold water for 10 minutes to defrost them. Cut your lemon into slices or wedges. Lay your lemon slices on a cookie sheet and place in freezer. Transfer the lemons to a zip lock bag. Use a grater, zester, or microplane to zest lemons. Place the zest in a zip lock bag. Place the bag inside of a freezer. Juice your lemons. Measure 1 cup (236.5 milliliters) of lemon juice. Pour the lemon juice into ice cube trays. Place ice cubes in the freezer and allow them to freeze. Wash your hands before handling food. Scrub the lemons with a brush. Wash your lemons. Use a vinegar solution to remove pesticides from your lemons. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Recognize-and-Treat-Dengue-Fever | How to Recognize and Treat Dengue Fever | To spot the symptoms of dengue fever, first be on the lookout for a high fever that develops 4 to 7 days after a mosquito bit you. Once the fever develops, you may also notice flu-like symptoms, such as joint and muscle pain, a headache, and nausea. In some cases, you may notice unusual nosebleeds or bruising. Finally, look for a spotty red rash, which may appear on your face, trunk, and limbs. If you have these symptoms, see a doctor right away for evaluation and treatment. | Expect an incubation period of four to seven days. Once you are bitten by a mosquito that is carrying dengue fever, the average time for symptoms to begin is four to seven days. While the average incubation period is from of four to seven days, you may experience symptoms as early as three days or as late as two weeks after being bitten. Take your temperature. A high fever is the first symptom to appear. Fevers with dengue fever are high, ranging from 102°F to 105°F (38.9°C to 40.6°C). The high fever lasts for two to seven days, returns to normal or even a little below normal, then can rebound. You may develop a high fever again that can last for several more days. Watch for flu-like symptoms. The initial symptoms that develop after the fever begins are generally non-specific, and are described as flu-like in nature. Common symptoms that occur after the fever begins include severe frontal headache, pain behind the eyes, severe joint and muscle pain, nausea and vomiting, fatigue, and a rash. Dengue fever was once called “break-bone fever” due to the severe pain that is sometimes felt in the joints and muscles. Monitor for symptoms of unusual bleeding. Other common symptoms caused by the virus can create hemodynamic changes, or changes that alter the flow of blood in the body. Examples of blood flow changes seen with dengue fever include nosebleeds, bleeding from the gums, and areas of bruising. Additional symptoms related to changes in blood flow may be evident by reddened areas in the eyes and a sore or inflamed throat. Evaluate the rash. The rash usually begins three to four days after you developed the fever, can get better for one to two days, but then can come back. The initial rash often involves the facial area, and can appear as flushed skin or spotty and reddened areas. The rash does not itch. The second rash begins on the trunk area, then spreads to the face, the arms, and the legs. The second rash can last from two to three days. In some cases, a rash that is made of small dots, called petechiae, may appear anywhere on the body as the fever subsides. Other rashes that sometimes occur include an itchy rash on the palms of the hands and the soles of the feet. See your doctor. If you have symptoms consistent with dengue fever, see your doctor as soon as possible to determine the diagnosis. Blood tests are available that can help your doctor to determine if you have been exposed to dengue fever. Your doctor will do blood work that helps to identify the presence of antibodies to dengue fever. It does take several weeks to get the full results of the blood tests. Changes in your platelet count can be checked to help verify the diagnosis. People that are infected with dengue fever have lower than normal platelet counts. An additional test called the tourniquet test can help with the diagnosis by providing your doctor with information about the condition of your capillaries. This test is not conclusive, but can be used to help with the diagnosis. Research is underway to develop new tests that confirm the diagnosis of dengue fever, including some that are point-of-care tests. Point-of-care tests can be performed at the doctor's office or in a hospital setting and provide quick confirmation of the infection. Your signs and symptoms are often enough for your doctor to determine that you have been infected with dengue fever, start supportive treatment, and monitor your progress. Consider the geographical limitations of dengue fever. While dengue fever is a global problem, there are areas where the infection is more prevalent, and locations where it has never been reported. The areas of the world where you are more likely to be bitten by a mosquito that carries dengue fever include tropical locations such as Puerto Rico, Latin America, Mexico, the Honduras, Southeast Asia, and the Pacific Islands. The World Health Organization also identifies other areas that have cases frequently reported including some areas of Africa, South America, Australia, Eastern Mediterranean countries, and island locations in the western Pacific. Recent cases have been reported in Europe, France, Croatia, the Madeira islands of Portugal, China, Singapore, Costa Rica, and Japan. Consider vulnerable areas in the United States. In 2013, several cases were reported in Florida. A recent report posted in July of 2015 indicates that no cases of dengue fever have yet been reported in Florida during 2015. Ten counties in California have reported cases of dengue fever over the past two years. As of July, 2015, several new cases have been reported in Texas, along the Mexican border. To date, the cases reported in the United States have been limited to Florida, California, and now Texas. Dengue fever has not been reported in any other areas of the United States. Think about your recent travel. If you think you have developed dengue fever, think about the areas you have visited in the past two weeks, or the area where you live. If you reside in the United States, the symptoms you are experiencing are unlikely to be dengue fever, unless you live in California, Texas, or Florida, have visited those states in recent weeks, or have traveled to one of the areas of the globe known to have the mosquitoes that carry dengue fever. Recognize the mosquito. The mosquitoes that carry dengue fever have unique markings. The Aedes aegypti mosquito is small and dark, and has white bands on its legs. It also has a silvery to white pattern on the body that resembles the shape of a musical instrument called a lyre. It may be that you remember being bitten by such a mosquito. If you can recall what the mosquito that bit you looks like, then that information can be helpful in confirming your diagnosis. Seek medical attention as soon as possible. While there is no specific treatment for dengue fever, the risks of developing bleeding problems caused by the infection warrant medical care. Most people get better in about two weeks with general supportive care. Follow recommended treatments. The most common methods of treating dengue fever is to take steps to allow your body to heal. Get plenty of bed rest. Drink lots of fluids. Take medicine to control your fever. Acetaminophen is recommended in treating your fever and the discomforts caused by dengue fever. Avoid aspirin products. Due to the risk of bleeding, aspirin products are not to be taken to treat the pain or fever associated with dengue fever. Ask your doctor about taking over-the-counter anti-inflammatory agents. Medications like ibuprofen and naproxen can help reduce the fever and treat discomfort. In some cases, ibuprofen or naproxen may not be appropriate if you are taking prescription medications that are similar, or if there is a reason to think you may be susceptible to GI bleeding these agents can sometimes cause. Follow the directions on the label of the product you are using. Do not take more than the amount recommended. Talk to your doctor if you are taking any medications for pain, or agents that work to thin your blood, before you take additional over-the-counter products. Expect several weeks to recover. Most people recover from dengue fever in about two weeks. Many people, especially adults, continue to feel tired, and somewhat depressed, for several weeks to months following an infection with dengue fever. Seek emergency medical attention. If your symptoms persist or you develop any signs of bleeding contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical care. Some symptoms to watch that are warning signs indicating your body may be having trouble maintaining the integrity of your blood vessels include the following: Persistent nausea and vomiting. Vomiting up blood or coffee-ground material. Blood in your urine. Abdominal pain. Difficulty breathing. Trouble with nosebleeds or bleeding gums. Bruising easily. Dehydration. Decreased blood platelets. Emergency medical care will likely result in hospitalization. Once you are hospitalized you will be treated with supportive care that can be life-saving. Examples of care that can be provided includes fluid and electrolyte replacement, and treatment or prevention of shock. Continue your medical care. Stay in contact with your doctor and report any changes you may experience as you recover from dengue fever, or if symptoms recur or worsen. Your doctor will know how to intervene should your condition deteriorate into either dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome. Watch closely for persistent symptoms. If symptoms persist beyond seven days, involve problems with continued vomiting, vomiting up blood, severe abdominal pain, difficulty breathing, purplish areas under the skin similar to bruises, and continued problems with nosebleeds or bleeding gums, then you should seek immediate medical attention. You may be developing dengue hemorrhagic fever, which is a serious and life-threatening medical condition. If you develop those symptoms, then you are in a 24 to 48 hour window where your capillaries, which are the tiniest blood vessels in your body, become more permeable, or leak. The leaky capillaries allow fluid to leak from your blood vessels and accumulate in your chest and abdominal cavity, causing conditions medically termed as ascites and pleural effusions. Your body is experiencing circulatory system failure which leads to shock. If not immediately reversed, death is likely. Seek emergency medical attention. If you are showing any signs of dengue hemorrhagic fever or dengue shock syndrome, then you need immediate hospitalization and medical attention. This condition is life-threatening. Call 911 or get medical help the fastest way possible. This is a medical emergency. Dengue shock syndrome is recognized by early symptoms that include a decrease in appetite, continued fever, continued vomiting, and persistent symptoms associated with dengue fever. The maximum risk of shock is between the third and seventh day of illness. If left untreated, internal hemorrhaging will continue. Symptoms of hemorrhaging include bleeding under the skin, persistent bruising and purplish rashes, worsening of symptoms, abnormal bleeding, cold and clammy arms and legs, and sweating. Symptoms like this indicate the person is in, or will quickly be in, a state of medical shock. Dengue shock syndrome can be fatal. If the person survives, they may experience brain disease, loss of brain function, liver damage, or seizures. Treatment for dengue shock syndrome will include controlling the loss of blood, fluid replacement, attempts to establish a normal blood pressure, oxygen, and possibly a transfusion to restore platelets and provide fresh blood to vital organs. Avoid mosquitoes. Mosquitoes that carry dengue fever most often feed during the day, usually in the early morning and late afternoon hours. Stay indoors during those times, keep the air conditioning on, and keep screen doors and windows closed. Travel during the times of day when the mosquitoes are less active. Take steps to cover your skin. Wear full-bodied clothing. Even if it is hot, try to wear long sleeves, long pants, socks and shoes, and even work gloves, when you need to be outside during the times of day when the mosquitoes are more active. Sleep under mosquito netting. Apply a topical mosquito-repellant product. Products that contain DEET are reported to be effective. Other insect-repellant products that may be helpful include those that contain picaridin, oil of lemon eucalyptus, or IR3535. Inspect your property. Mosquitoes that carry dengue fever are most often found close to dwellings. They like to breed in water that is held in artificial containers, like gallon drums, flower pots, pet dishes, or old tires. Get rid of any standing water containers that are not needed. Check for hidden sources of standing water. Clogged drains or gutters, wells, manholes, and septic tanks may have areas of standing water. Clean these areas or repair them so they no longer hold unwanted water. Eliminate containers that hold standing water around or near the outside of your home. Clean flower pot saucers, birdbaths, fountains, and pet dishes at least once a week to get rid of any larva. Maintain swimming pools and put mosquito-eating fish in small ponds. Make sure doors and windows have screens that fit tightly, and all doors and windows close properly. | Expect an incubation period of four to seven days. Take your temperature. Watch for flu-like symptoms. Monitor for symptoms of unusual bleeding. Evaluate the rash. See your doctor. Consider the geographical limitations of dengue fever. Consider vulnerable areas in the United States. Think about your recent travel. Recognize the mosquito. Seek medical attention as soon as possible. Follow recommended treatments. Avoid aspirin products. Expect several weeks to recover. Seek emergency medical attention. Continue your medical care. Watch closely for persistent symptoms. Seek emergency medical attention. Avoid mosquitoes. Take steps to cover your skin. Apply a topical mosquito-repellant product. Inspect your property. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Cat-First-Aid-Kit | How to Make a Cat First Aid Kit | To make a cat first aid kit, first add paperwork with details of your vet's phone number and up-to-date medical records, in case you need them in an emergency. You should also include a variety of medical supplies to treat serious injuries, including antiseptic wipes, rubbing alcohol, gauze, and protective gloves. It's a good idea to keep a muzzle, towel, and pillowcase inside too, in case you need to restrain your cat for its own safety. Another useful supply to keep in your first aid kit is food and water, which will help rehydrate your cat and give it energy in an emergency. | Collect important paperwork. You might not think of it off-hand, but you'll need to have important information about your cat in the kit. This includes telephone phone numbers, identifying details, and your pet's medical records. You may need these documents in an emergency. You may not have time to get your cat to a vet in an emergency. Have a cat-specific first aid manual in the kit, for easy reference. Make sure to have your vet's telephone number, the poison control hotline number, and the contact details of and directions to a nearby emergency animal clinic, as well. Include identification details for your pet, like sex, appearance, breed, and any health concerns or distinguishing traits. Also have up-to-date medical records, like her proofs of vaccination. Consider putting these documents into a waterproof, zip-lock bag to keep them from the elements. Assemble your basic tools and supplies. You'll need to gather an array of supplies for the first aid kit. Start with basic items that you can use in any medical emergency. You should have supplies for treating and disinfecting wounds. Get items like antiseptic wipes or ointment and rubbing alcohol, and also protective gloves. Cotton balls and swabs may come in handy, as well, for wiping clean wounds or applying substances like alcohol. A magnifying glass, a pair of scissors, tongue depressor, penlight, and tweezers are useful to help you see and treat some kinds of injuries. For insect bites, consider including sting stop pads or even an old credit card to scrape away imbedded stingers. You will also want to be ready for poisoning, with items like milk of magnesia to absorb poison and hydrogen peroxide to induce vomiting. Always talk to a vet or poison control center before treating poison. Have a muzzle, a towel or pillowcase for restraint, a leash, rectal thermometer, and an oral syringe, as well. Include bandaging materials. Many pet injuries are wounds, which bleed and will need to be staunched and bandaged. Make sure to have a variety of gauzes and bandages for such a situation. 2 and 4 inch gauze squares can be used to apply pressure directly to a wound to stop bleeding. You will need adhesive tape to secure them. Bandage or gauze rolls will allow you to wrap a wound and will keep the gauze square in place. Flexible wrap or Vetwrap can be applied to secure and compress the gauze, as well, keeping pressure on the wound until your cat gets proper medical care. Human band-aids are also good to have, in case you get scratched or bitten while treating the cat. Have food and water. In planning for all situations, you should account for emergencies where your cat needs food or water or other nutritional support. Pack water but also a variety of quick-acting supplies. Gatorade or Pedialyte are good in cases of dehydration and will hydrate your cat while replenishing her electrolytes. Supplements like Nutri-Cal, Vitacal, or Nutristat are high-calorie gels that will give pets energy and a nutritional boost. You might also go with a high-calorie, high-sugar energy source like Karo Syrup. Stock the kit with pet-friendly medicines. Finally, add medicines for pain relief, itching, allergic reactions, and diarrhea or constipation. Talk to your vet to be sure what meds are pet safe. A cortisone spray or cream is good to stop itching from insect bites, for example. You can also keep cat laxatives or anti-diarrheal medication like Pet Pectate on hand. Just be sure that it doesn't contain salicylates, a compound found in aspirin that is toxic to cats. Some people suggest keeping dehydrated or canned pumpkin mix in your kit, which will ease a cat's constipation. Cats can safely consume allergy medication like Diphenhydramine (Benadryl). However, talk to your vet about proper dosages. Buy a generic, human first aid kit. Another easy option is to buy a human first aid kit (or find one on hand) and then customize it for your pet by adding supplies. This may also prove less pricy than buying each item individually or investing in a ready-made model. A basic American Red Cross first aid kit will run about $20. Deluxe family models are a bit more, in the range of $25 to $30. A good first aid kit will be able to treat cuts, scrapes, swelling, allergic reactions, and pain. Usually they contain different kinds of bandages and adhesive tape, gauze, antiseptic wipes, cold compresses, and rubbing alcohol. Kits might also contain gloves, hand sanitizer, pain medication like aspirin, a thermometer, and a hydrocortisone pack. Remove any potentially harmful meds. Most of the items in a first aid pack are helpful or, at worst, harmless for your cat. However, some human medicines are not OK for cats and should be removed. Get rid of any aspirin tablets. Aspirin is toxic for cats because they lack the enzymes to break it down. It can cause them to vomit or bleed internally and can even affect their nervous system and lead to death. The same goes for other painkillers like Aleve, Advil, Motrin (i.e. non-steroidal anti-inflammatories) and Tylenol (Acetaminophen). The first kind can cause ulcers or kidney failure, while the second damages a cat's red blood cells. Add pet-specific items. Now, add things that your pet may need in case of an emergency or injury but that aren't already in the kit. Think of possible scenarios and what you might require in those situations. Consider having a pet first-aid book, with instructions on how to treat injuries, poison, and other emergencies. A muzzle of some kind is useful, as an injured or distressed cat is more likely to bite. You'll be able to handle her more safely with a towel, as well. Of course, don't muzzle a cat that is vomiting, choking, or having trouble breathing. Keep some water for treating dehydration and food or a nutritional supplement in case your pet needs emergency nourishment. A nylon leash and self-sticking bandages are also helpful. Have paperwork on hand. Like before, gather together all of your pet's medical records as well as important phone numbers and contact information, in a water-proof container. It's a good idea to have phone numbers and directions for the nearest pet clinic, your vet, and a poison control center or hotline. Have proof of your cat's vaccinations for rabies and other diseases, copies of medical records, and a current photo in case she gets lost. You can include other information like the cat's breed, age, sex, and any other health problems, as well as your own contact details. Try a pet store. If you don't want to spend the time or effort to put together first aid kit, you can always buy one ready-made. More and more pet or cat-specific first aid kits are on the market these days. Start at your local pet supply store. Many ready-made first aid kits are designed for either cats or dogs. These have basic supplies like gauze, water bottles, food, alcohol pads, and antibiotic ointment. Expect to pay $25 or more for one. There are also cat-specific first aid and emergency evacuation kits. These are more expensive, some over $150, and can have medical items and food and water supplies for several days. The Ready America “Grab n' Go” 2-person emergency cat set is designed to keep you and your pet safe and fed for up to 3 days in an emergency. It contains food, water pouches, light sticks, a separate first aid kit, matches, pet collar, alcohol pads, and more. Shop online. You will be able to find many of the same premade kits by shopping online. Try sites like Amazon.com or websites that cater only to pets, like Petsupplies.com and Petsmart.com. There you can compare prices and look for a kit that has everything you want. Prices online will range from about $20 to over $50, depending on the model and its contents. Keep in mind that you may end paying more online with added shipping costs, even if you are buying from a surplus merchandise site like Overstock.com. Read reviews and compare prices. While a pet first aid kit is not a high-ticket purchase, you can still get the best bang for your money. Read reviews online, ask questions at your local pet store, and be sure to know what is inside each kit. Most kits have the same generic items that are found in any first aid kit, like bandages, adhesive tape, cotton balls, and antiseptics. The biggest difference between kits will be the make and pet-specific items. Some kits come with carrying cases, for instance. Will you need the kit on the go? Do you need certain pet items like a tick-remover or muzzle? Don't forget to take a look at canine first aid kits, as well. While made for dogs, they have most of the same items and are also a bit more common. For example, the Outdoor Safety Pro Model 2000 is a high-quality canine first aid kit. It contains 70 pieces and can handle anything from skunk spray and small wounds to aid for major injuries. | Collect important paperwork. Assemble your basic tools and supplies. Include bandaging materials. Have food and water. Stock the kit with pet-friendly medicines. Buy a generic, human first aid kit. Remove any potentially harmful meds. Add pet-specific items. Have paperwork on hand. Try a pet store. Shop online. Read reviews and compare prices. |
https://www.wikihow.life/Clean-and-Maintain-a-Suede-Couch | How to Clean and Maintain a Suede Couch | To keep your suede couch clean, all you need to do is vacuum and brush it once a week. For a deeper clean, vacuum in a criss-cross pattern, which will help free debris trapped in the creases. Then, wipe the cushions with a suede brush or a terry cloth. You should also brush the couch with the suede brush to remove any dust and debris left by the vacuum. If your suede couch gets stained, lightly dab the stain with a terry cloth and white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. If that doesn't work, try a cleaner designed for suede shoes. | Use a protective spray that is safe for suede. Although not entirely foolproof, treating your couch with a protective spray will help prevent spills from becoming permanent stains. Some protective sprays are water based while others are a synthetic solvent. Consult your owner's manual to see what type of cleaners are safe for your couch. Please be aware that if the couch is brand-new that applying fabric/upholstery protector may void the warranty. Work in an extremely-well ventilated area. Fumes emitted from the aerosol spray can be harmful in many ways and should always be avoided as much as possible. Be sure to open all windows and use as many fans as available. Painter's ventilator-masks can also be used. Begin working one section of the couch at a time. Allow fresh air to fill the room before moving on. This will keep the over-spray to a minimum and allow you to breathe easier. Be sure to keep the can approximately 8 to 12 in (20 to 30 cm) away from the area being sprayed. Closer may result in the solution running, while too far away will result in an uneven coat. Sweep, do not point, the spray can smoothly. If sweeping from left-to-right, begin spraying about 6 in (15 cm) to the left of couch, and stop spraying 6 in (15 cm) after you have passed the right edge. Work your way through each section of the couch. Keep going until you have applied a full-coat to the couch. You will need to apply 2 to 3 coats of fabric/upholstery protector for it to work properly. Allow at least 12-hours for the solution to dry. Don't sit on the couch or place things on it during this time. Remove the cushions on the couch every week or so. This will allow you to collect all the crumbs, papers and other bits and pieces that have fallen through the cracks. Use a dust buster or vacuum on the couch. This will allow you to collect any debris that could not be removed by hand. Vacuuming will also help eliminate any dust or pet dander that has accumulated and that cannot be seen by the human eye. Wipe the cushions down with a suede brush or a terry cloth towel. Be sure to check the underside of the cushions for any debris that may have remained. Replace the cushions. Some couches have matching cushions. That is, they are the exact same size and shape. If this is the case, it is a good idea to rotate the cushions to even out the wear. Brush the nap at least once a week. Brushing removes dust, which accumulates and causes a couch to look dull. Use a suede napping brush or cloth, which can be purchased at shoe stores that also specialize in cleaning and repair. Keep a suede cleaning cloth nearby. Use this to rub down the couch now and then to help keep the nap in good shape. This can be done even while you're watching TV, so it's useful to keep the cloth near the remotes. Terry cloth towels can be also be used. Rubbing and brushing are especially important if you allow pets to sit on the couch. Remove the cushions as you would for a weekly cleaning. Set them down on a clean area of the floor. Vacuum or dust bust each cushion using a criss-cross pattern. This will help free any debris that has remained trapped in the folds of the suede. If available, use the specialized upholstery attachment that was included with your vacuum-- this attachment does not have the rougher and--presumably--dirtier edges of the other attachments. Consult your vacuum's manual if you're unsure which attachment this is. Vacuuming keeps the nap intact and will also remove dust and debris that has managed to build-up on the surface of the couch. Clean the rest of the couch with a criss-cross vacuuming motion. Begin with the arms and work your way down toward the legs. Brush or rub down the nap of the couch using either the suede nap brush or the suede rubbing cloth. This will polish and restore the luster of the couch. Repeat the same process for each of the cushions. Be sure to polish both the top and bottom of the cushion, as well as all of the sides to eliminate any lingering debris or pet dander. Replace the cushions. Again, if appropriate, rotating the cushions to even out wear-and-tear. Rub the stain with the suede brush or polishing cloth. This will prepare the area by removing any debris or dust. Make sure to brush the suede with a suede brush again after you finish cleaning it. Moisten a terry cloth rag with white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Use the cloth to lightly dab the couch. Be very careful not to over-saturate the stain. Rub the stain with a pencil eraser gently to remove it. You can purchase a special suede eraser or just use a pencil eraser. For extra stubborn stains, use a small piece of sandpaper to lightly rub the stain. Avoid using harsh circular motions as this will only add undo wear to the nap. Instead, use a criss-crossing pattern. If brushing, vinegar, and alcohol do not work, try using a cleaner designed for suede shoes. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions. These products come as either a water-based solution, or a suede and micro-suede specific solvent. Refer to your couch's manufacturer's instructions to see which type of cleaner is safe for your couch. Clean up water, fat and soft food spills immediately. The sooner you remove the spill, the more likely the stain is likely to be removed. | Use a protective spray that is safe for suede. Work in an extremely-well ventilated area. Begin working one section of the couch at a time. Work your way through each section of the couch. Allow at least 12-hours for the solution to dry. Remove the cushions on the couch every week or so. Use a dust buster or vacuum on the couch. Wipe the cushions down with a suede brush or a terry cloth towel. Replace the cushions. Brush the nap at least once a week. Remove the cushions as you would for a weekly cleaning. Vacuum or dust bust each cushion using a criss-cross pattern. Clean the rest of the couch with a criss-cross vacuuming motion. Brush or rub down the nap of the couch using either the suede nap brush or the suede rubbing cloth. Repeat the same process for each of the cushions. Replace the cushions. Rub the stain with the suede brush or polishing cloth. Moisten a terry cloth rag with white vinegar or rubbing alcohol. Rub the stain with a pencil eraser gently to remove it. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Open-a-Cat%27s-Mouth | How to Open a Cat's Mouth | To open a cat's mouth, pick a time when your cat is relaxed and happy, and wrap it snugly in a towel so that only its head is sticking out. Then, hold your cat steady as you put your thumb on one side of its mouth and your pointer finger on the other side, where its jaw hinges. After that, apply gentle downward pressure as you push your fingers between the upper and lower jaws, which will cause your cat to open its mouth. | Pick a time when your cat is at ease. Don't try to open your cat's mouth when it is riled up, playful, or upset. You should also avoid waking your cat up to open its mouth, as it could scare the cat. Instead, just pick a time when the cat is calm and happy and wants to be around you. Plan how you will position yourself and the cat. You need to think about where and how you will hold your cat and how and where you will hold any medications you are going to give it, if you are doing that. Ideally you will do this on a tabletop. Make sure there is nothing breakable nearby on the table, as your cat may break loose and knock things over. Place the towel or blanket on the table and spread it out. You will use the towel or blanket to wrap the cat up so it can't move. You will also want to have a syringe (without a needle attached) full of water on hand if you are giving your cat a pill. This will help to wash down the pill. Keep the pill in your more dexterous hand. Get your arms at the same height as your cat. Put the cat in position and get it comfortable. Pick up the cat and place it in the middle of the towel, holding it down in a prone position on its belly. Bring one side of the towel up over the body, then bring the other side up over snugly. Bring the back end up towards the front making sure it's snug. Finally wrap the front of the towel around the cat's back snugly. This should only leave the cat's head sticking out. Make sure the material is snugly wrapped around the cat in order to keep legs and claws inside the material. Try and calm the cat if it is fighting you. Some cats will put up with being wrapped up extremely well, while others will fight you tremendously. Gauge your specific cat and judge whether you can wrap it and calm it down or if you just need to wrap it up right before you open its mouth. Hold the cat steady on the table. If giving the cat medicine, hold the cat with your non-dominant hand while you pick up the medication with your dominant hand. If you have a helper, have them hold the wrapped cat for you. If you don't, slide your elbow and forearm of your non-dominant hand alongside the cat's wrapped body until you are holding it between your arm and your chest while the wrapped cat is still on the table. Position your fingers. Put your thumb on one side and your forefinger on the other side of your cat's mouth along the cheeks where the jaw hinges. You will be able to just barely be able to feel the teeth through the cheeks. Apply pressure gently until your cat opens its mouth by pressing down on the cat’s lower jaw until it opens its mouth. Basically you are pushing your fingers between the upper and lower jaw while applying downward pressure. This pressure will be uncomfortable for the cat so it will open its mouth. Insert any medicine into your cat's mouth while you have the mouth open. Using your pointer finger and thumb, put the pill toward the back of the mouth over the tongue in one quick movement. Then quickly withdraw your fingers so you don't get bit. If you are worried about getting bit, you can purchase a pill popper that is like a long syringe with a plunger that you place the pill in and pass this into the cat's mouth. Don't just shove a pill down the back of your cat's throat. The pill could accidentally enter the cat's windpipe, causing choking. Conversely, damage could be done to the back of the throat if the pill is forced down the esophagus. Force your cat to swallow. Let go of the cat's mouth and hold its top jaw or face so that its nose points upward. Rub your cat's throat gently to trigger the swallowing reflex. Use a syringe to place a small amount of water in the commissure between the lips to encourage the pill to “go down” the esophagus. This prevents the pill from irritating or “sticking” in the throat and damaging the tissues. DO NOT shoot the water down the back of the throat or the cat may inhale the water into its lungs. Maintain the same position for a few seconds before removing the covers and releasing your cat. You don't want your cat to injure itself while trying to get away, so you should try to calm it down before releasing it. Also, don't forget to give your cat a lot of praise and some tasty treats as a reward for good behavior. | Pick a time when your cat is at ease. Plan how you will position yourself and the cat. Put the cat in position and get it comfortable. Hold the cat steady on the table. Position your fingers. Apply pressure gently until your cat opens its mouth by pressing down on the cat’s lower jaw until it opens its mouth. Insert any medicine into your cat's mouth while you have the mouth open. Force your cat to swallow. Maintain the same position for a few seconds before removing the covers and releasing your cat. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Tell-if-Your-Rabbit-Is-in-Pain | How to Tell if Your Rabbit Is in Pain | To tell if your rabbit is in pain, watch for low energy and rapid, heavy, or irregular breathing, since these signs indicate distress. Next, check for signs of injury, like limping or open wounds. If there are no injuries, feel its tummy for bloating or distension. Also, check the ears for swelling, redness, or fluid, which are signs of an infection. High-pitched squeals indicate severe pain, so take your rabbit to the vet right away if you hear anything like that. | Monitor your rabbit's energy level to see if it is active. Healthy rabbits enjoy moving, hopping, and exploring. If a rabbit experiences pain, it is likely to become less active. Watch your rabbit to see if it is listless and reluctant to move. A rabbit in pain may also be reclusive, staying in one place in a hidden corner. Listen for loud tooth grinding. Light tooth grinding can mean that your rabbit is content and isn't normally a cause for concern. Loud tooth grinding is usually a sign of distress. Listen for this rough, grating sound which is a likely sign that your rabbit is in pain. As a general rule, tooth grinding that you can hear when you are across the room from your rabbit can be considered "loud." Be mindful of any sudden signs of aggression. Pain can cause a rabbit to be irritable or defensive. If it is in pain, your rabbit may lash out and demonstrate uncharacteristic aggression. Take note if your rabbit tries to bite you or tries to harm another pet. Anxiety can also cause aggression in rabbits. Observe your rabbit's breathing to see if it is rapid or heavy. Irregular breathing is an observable sign of pain or injury in rabbits. If you suspect that your rabbit is in pain, listen to its breathing carefully to see if it is fast or laboured. If a rabbit is hot it will breathe more rapidly to try and cool down. Observe how much food your rabbit is consuming. A rabbit in pain likely lose its appetite. Keep track of how much your rabbit is eating when you empty and clean its food bowl to see if it is eating less. If your rabbit's loss of appetite persists for more than 1-2 days, take it as a sign that it might be experiencing pain. A healthy adult rabbit should be eating approximately 0.5 cups of dry pellet food per day. Note any high-pitched squeals that come from your rabbit. While rabbits tend to deal with pain quietly, they may let out an unnerving sound in the event of sudden pain. If you hear your rabbit make a high-pitched noise, take this sign of pain seriously and bring it to the vet as soon as possible. It will normally take a significant amount of distress to make a rabbit go against its own nature in such a dramatic way. Watch for lameness in one of your rabbit's limbs. If your rabbit experiences an injury to one of its legs, it will likely stop using it. Note if you see your rabbit favoring other limbs and leaving one limp. It may also walk instead of hopping to avoid making its pain in a certain limb worse. Look for bleeding or open wounds. If you are concerned that your rabbit may be in pain, observe it for any visible bleeding or lacerations to the skin. If your rabbit is bleeding, apply gentle pressure to the wound with a clean piece of gauze. If the wound looks deep, wrap your rabbit in a clean towel, place it in its carrier, and bring it to your vet's office or to an emergency veterinary clinic as soon as possible. If left untreated, open wounds can get infected. It is important to treat open wounds immediately to prevent blood loss or arterial damage. Observe your rabbit's abdomen for bloating or distension. A buildup of gas in your rabbit's stomach can cause a great deal of pain and discomfort. Observe your rabbit's abdomen to see if it is protruding abnormally. A bloated belly may look like a balloon and feel hard to the touch. Bring your rabbit to the vet as soon as possible once you notice abdominal swelling. At a certain point, bloating may become irreversible and fatal. Check your rabbit's ears for signs of infection. Ear infections can cause rabbits a great deal of pain, but are easy to spot. Look for swelling or redness of the outer ear canal, as well as crust or thick, white fluid emerging from the ears. Ear infections may also be characterised by excessive ear wax or a strong odor coming from the ear canal. A vet will be able to diagnose the exact cause of infection and treat it accordingly. Take note if your rabbit licks, rubs, or scratches at a particular part of its body. If your rabbit experiences skin irritation or injury, it may focus compulsively on that part of its body. Observe your rabbit to see if it repeatedly licks, rubs, or scratches a specific spot. If this behaviour persists beyond 1-2 days, bring your rabbit to the vet to be examined. Your rabbit may make its pain worse by licking, rubbing, or scratching an injury, so get it checked by a vet as soon as possible. Bring your rabbit to the vet once a year to check its health. Your rabbit should be examined at least yearly by a veterinarian, who will be able to assess its health and address any possible health problems. Your vet can test for pain-causing ailments that may not be observable to you. Be sure to tell your vet about any unusual symptoms you have observed in your rabbit, such as changes in eating, sleeping, or behaviour. When looking for a vet for your rabbit, choose one who has experience treating rabbits. Some veterinarians may focus on cats and dogs, making them less skilled at treating rabbits. | Monitor your rabbit's energy level to see if it is active. Listen for loud tooth grinding. Be mindful of any sudden signs of aggression. Observe your rabbit's breathing to see if it is rapid or heavy. Observe how much food your rabbit is consuming. Note any high-pitched squeals that come from your rabbit. Watch for lameness in one of your rabbit's limbs. Look for bleeding or open wounds. Observe your rabbit's abdomen for bloating or distension. Check your rabbit's ears for signs of infection. Take note if your rabbit licks, rubs, or scratches at a particular part of its body. Bring your rabbit to the vet once a year to check its health. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Bamboo-Wind-Chime | How to Make a Bamboo Wind Chime | A bamboo wind chime is a unique piece that can liven up your decor. To make one, first, you'll need to cut bamboo into 6 pieces for the chimes. Each piece should be a slightly different length so it will make a different sound. Then, you'll need to use a sharp knife to carefully split and hollow each piece. Once they're hollow, you'll need to drill a hole at the top of each section and secure them to a piece of plywood with thread. Make sure the string is loose enough that they can move around in the wind. Finally, cut a disk out of plywood and hang it in the middle of the bamboo pieces. If there are any loose pieces on your wind chime, use a little hot glue to secure them. | Find some bamboo. If you are lucky, bamboo may already be growing wild in your area, and it is simply a matter of obtaining permission and cutting the bamboo plant to a proper size. If there is no local source, you may be able to purchase a common bamboo pole, used for fishing. You can also often buy bamboo poles of varying sizes at garden supply stores. Make sure your bamboo is thoroughly seasoned and is not split or rotten. Cut the bamboo into six lengths. Each length should be composed of two of the plant's "sections", with one end above the partition-like segment end, and the other below it, so you have an open tube to work with. Split the hollow end of each piece. This can be done with a very sharp knife, but care must be used, since both the splinters from the bamboo and the knife can impale or cut you. If you have a vice, it might be easier (and less risky) to fix the bamboo in the vice and cut it with a saw, especially if it is quite tough. Taper the last inch (2.5cm) or so off at an angle. Drill 1/8 inch (3mm) holes just above the section on the solid end of each piece, parallel to the cut you made on the opposite end. This will ensure the hollow, concave bamboo "channel" will be facing out on each tube when they are assembled. Cut a round piece of plywood or other material about 7 times the diameter of the average piece of bamboo. In the photos, each piece was about 1 inch in diameter, so the plywood disk is 7 inches (~18cm). Lay out the disk into 6 equal spaces around the circumference, then drill a 1/8 inch (3mm) hole about 3/4 inch (~2cm) on either side of the layout marks, near the edge of the disk. Thread a piece of string through one of the holes, and tie off one end. The string should be about 48 inches (1.2m) long to begin with; any surplus can be cut off after each tube is tied in place. Heavyweight fishing line can be used for hanging the tubes, as in the photos, but a more flexible string will give better results. Thread your string through the holes in the end of one bamboo section, then back through the hole in the plywood on the other side of your layout mark. Continue doing this until each bamboo is hanging under the plywood disk, then tie off the end of your line. Adjust the individual sticks so that each one is staggered higher or lower than the adjacent one. This is what changes the tone of each bamboo, so you can experiment here until you obtain a pleasant sound with the tonal variation you desire. Drill three holes about 1 1/2 inches (3.8cm) from the center of your plywood disk, equally spaced around it. Measure and cut three equal lengths of string, about 30 inches (0.75m) long, and tie them together on one end, allowing a small loop to be formed. Thread one string through each hole in the plywood, snug them slightly, and while holding the disk level, drop some hot-melt glue on each to secure it in place. Cut a smaller disk of your plywood, about 1 1/2 times the diameter of your bamboo pieces smaller than your first (top) disk. Drill three 1/8 inch (3mm) holes spaced equally about the center of this disk, about 3/4 to 1 inch (1.9 to 2.5 cm) from the center. Thread the loose ends of your three center strings through these holes, allowing it to hang about 1/4 of the distance down from the top of the bamboo sticks. Secure these strings to the plywood , using hot-melt glue again, keeping this smaller disk level also. This disk will be the "hammer", the striker that produces the sound of your chimes. Cut a shape of plywood or other material to hang below the hammer, or lower disk, and tie it on the end of your three strings. This will catch the wind, causing the hammer to strike the bamboo tubes as the wind makes it sway back and forth. One with a larger area will move more in a lighter breeze. Feel free to experiment with different materials in different sizes and weights. Secure any loose ends of strings, gluing everything with an extra bit of hot-melt glue so nothing comes untied while your chime blows in the breeze. Sand and varnish, or paint your chimes if you like. Finished. | Find some bamboo. Cut the bamboo into six lengths. Split the hollow end Drill 1/8 inch (3mm) holes just above the section on the solid end of each piece, parallel to the cut you made on the opposite end. Cut a round piece of plywood Lay out the disk into 6 equal spaces around the circumference, then drill a 1/8 inch (3mm) hole about 3/4 inch (~2cm) on either side of the layout marks, near the edge of the disk. Thread a piece of string through one of the holes, and tie off one end. Thread your string through the holes in the end of one bamboo section, then back through the hole in the plywood on the other side of your layout mark. Adjust the individual sticks Drill three holes about 1 1/2 inches (3.8cm) from the center of your plywood disk, equally spaced around it. Thread one string through each hole Cut a smaller disk of your plywood, about 1 1/2 times the diameter of your bamboo pieces smaller than your first (top) disk. Secure these strings to the plywood Cut a shape of plywood or other material to hang below the hammer, or lower disk, and tie it on the end of your three strings. Secure any loose ends of strings, gluing everything with an extra bit of hot-melt glue so nothing comes untied while your chime blows in the breeze. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-to-Play-Electric-Guitar | How to Learn to Play Electric Guitar | To learn how to play the electric guitar, try to set aside 15-30 minutes every day to practice. Focus on learning how to play the different chords first, then try learning easy guitar songs like "Love Me Do" by the Beatles and "Sweet Caroline" by Neil Diamond. If you need some help practicing, watch video tutorials on websites like YouTube, or get a beginner's guitar book so you can follow along at your own pace. Also, set specific goals for yourself every week, like learning 3 new chords, so you can keep track of your progress. | Balance the body of the guitar on top of your dominant thigh to hold it. In a seated position, move your dominant leg slightly forward and bend your knee to place your foot flat on the floor. Place the guitar on your thigh, orienting it so that the strings are facing away from you and the head (the small tip of the guitar) is pointing in the opposite direction from your dominant side. Keep the guitar upright and hold the back of it close enough to you that it touches your stomach and chest while resting on your thigh. Use your non-dominant hand to hold the neck of the guitar. The neck is the long piece of wood that connects the head of the guitar to the body. If you have trouble balancing the guitar, attach a strap to the guitar and place it over your shoulder to make it easier to keep the guitar upright. Grip the neck using your thumb and forefinger. Form a “V” shape with the thumb and forefinger of your non-dominant hand and place the guitar neck in that “V” to stabilize it. When you want to play the guitar, press your thumb flat against the back of the neck and use your fingertips to press down on the strings. Avoid hooking your thumb over the top of the neck, even if it feels more natural to grip the guitar this way; doing this will cause you to grip the guitar with too much force and will limit the reach of your fretting fingers. The flat side of the neck is called the fretboard because it's inlaid with metal frets that indicate where to put your fingers to play specific notes. Memorize the names and numbers for the different strings of the guitar. In order from thickest to thinnest, the strings of the guitar are named E, A, D, G, B, and e. The strings are also numbered from thinnest to thickest so that the e string is also called the 1st string and the E string is called the 6th string. The strings descend in pitch from 1st string to 6th string, so the E string is the lowest in pitch, while the e string is the highest. It's important to remember the names and numbers of your guitar strings to be able to read tabs and talk about specific notes. Try using a mnemonic device to remember the guitar strings, such as “Eddie And Debbie Got Brown eggs.” Hold your pick with a firm but comfortable grip. A pick is a small piece of plastic used to strum the guitar or play individual notes. To hold the pick, grip it between the thumb and index finger on your strumming hand and orient it so that it's perpendicular to your fist. Your grip should be firm enough to hold the pick in place while you're playing, but not so tight that it's uncomfortable. Your thumb and finger should cover about ⅔ of the pick, leaving a little more than ⅓ of it sticking out of your hand. You don't necessarily have to use a pick to play the electric guitar, but you should definitely hold the pick in a comfortable and proper way if you use it. Play the guitar without fretting any strings to practice your strumming. Use your strumming hand to strum all 6 strings at the same time in a downward stroke and do this until it feels natural. Once you're comfortable with downstroke strumming, practice strumming all 6 with an upward stroke as well. If you don't want to be too loud while practicing your strumming, you can simply “mute” the strings by lightly touching them with your fretting hand so that no sound is produced when you play. Strum the guitar by moving your wrist up and down rather than by moving your whole arm up and down. This will make your strumming more energy efficient and reduce your risk of injury in the long run. Once you've gotten the hang of performing downstrokes and upstrokes individually, try strumming the guitar in a downstroke-upstroke-downstroke-upstroke pattern until you've gotten the feel of it. Practice strumming and fretting the strings at the same time. To play a note on the guitar, press your finger down between the frets on the fretboard; this is called "fretting the strings." While pressing down 1 or more strings with your fretting hand, strum the guitar with your other hand. This will help you get used to doing 2 separate things with your hands at the same time. Don't press down on the frets themselves, as this will produce a buzzing sound instead of the note you were trying to play. Only press down on the strings as hard as is needed to produce a clean note. If you press down too lightly, the string will buzz. However, pressing down too hard will only put more strain than necessary on your fingers. Don't worry about playing chords yet; just focus on getting the basic movements down first! Dip your fingertips in ice water or rubbing alcohol to manage finger pain. Although your fingers will definitely be sore when you're first starting out, this pain will go away after enough time. Use ice water or rubbing alcohol treatments to minimize finger pain when you experience it. Remind yourself that the pain is only temporary to avoid letting it discourage you from continuing to play guitar. Your fingertips will eventually grow calluses that make playing guitar a lot less painful. Calluses usually take at least a month or 2 to grow, so don't feel discouraged if they don't grow immediately! Apply rubbing alcohol to your fingers 3 times a day for a week to encourage calluses to grow faster. Start out by learning to play a simple first position chord. A chord is a harmonic group made up of 3 or more individual notes. First position chords, such as the C chord , A chord , and G chord , are the easiest to play, so one of these should be the first chord you learn. Note that when you play certain chords, you don't strum all 6 of the guitar strings. For example, when you play the C chord, you only play the bottom 5 strings and ignore the E string entirely. Practice the correct finger placement on the fretboard for the chord first. Once you're comfortable pressing down on the right notes, work on strumming and fretting at the same time. Learn how to play 3 more simple chords after you’ve mastered 1. Almost any song you hope to play on the electric guitar will involve at least 4 different chords, so you'll need to master more than just 1 to play guitar well. Work on learning the other first position chords before tackling anything more complicated. For example, if the first chord you learned to play was the C chord, the next 2 you learn to play should probably be the D chord and the G chord. Follow the same process of learning the correct finger placement on the fretboard first, then practicing strumming the guitar while pressing down on the right notes. Practice switching from 1 chord to another. Place your fingers in position for 1 chord, then move them into position for another chord. Repeat this process until you can quickly switch between the 2 chords. Then, add a third chord into the mix and continue switching your finger placement as quickly as you can. You'll eventually get to a place where you can quickly switch from 1 chord to another without even thinking about it (which is exactly what you need to do to play guitar!). Add increasingly complex chords to your repertoire. Once you've learned the rest of the simple guitar chords, such as the D and E chords, the next thing to do is learn how to play barre chords. Barre chords are played by using your index finger to press down all the notes on a single fret. Although they're more challenging, barre chords are very important for playing a wide variety of songs. Some of the most important barre chords to learn how to play are the E major chord, E minor chord, A major chord, and A minor chord. Once you're comfortable with playing 1 or more barre chords, practice switching between them and moving from a barre chord to a simple chord on the fretboard. Create a daily practice schedule and stick to it. Learning to play the guitar well is something that requires dedication. However, you don't have to devote all of your time to practice. Simply set aside 15-30 minutes every day to practice playing guitar and commit to sticking to this schedule no matter what. Use this practice time to work on the chords you already know and add new chords to the mix. Once you know enough chords, try learning to play a whole song ! Some examples of easy guitar songs for beginners include the Beatles' “Love Me Do,” Creedence Clearwater Revival's “Proud Mary,” and Neil Diamond's “Sweet Caroline.” Use music books to learn new chords and techniques. If you're just looking for new chords to learn, you can buy books that include the guitar chords for a lot of famous and popular songs at nearly any music store or book retailer. Many music books will also include helpful tips and techniques for playing the guitar that you may not have encountered in practicing on your own. Some books will also include helpful multimedia tools, such as CDs, that make learning new techniques on the guitar even easier. Visit music websites to find tabs and tutorials for songs. Websites like ultimate-guitar.com and ultimate-tabs.com have a large database of tabs (simplified forms of musical notation) that tell you how to play different songs on the guitar. For extra help, there are also plenty of video tutorials on websites like YouTube where more experienced guitar players offer tips on how to play songs from start to finish. Guitar tabs are an easier way to read chords if you can't read traditional sheet music. Tabs use 6 horizontal lines to represent the guitar strings and numbers on those lines to indicate which frets you need to press down to play the chord. You can visit ultimate-guitar.com at this URL: https://www.ultimate-guitar.com/. You can visit ultimate-tabs.com at this URL: https://www.ultimate-tabs.com/ Set a realistic goal to achieve with your practicing each week. For instance, aim to learn 2-3 new chords each week or be able to switch between 2 chords flawlessly. Whatever goal you set, make sure it's specific and achievable. Your goal should also be measurable so that you know when you've achieved it. For example, if your goal is to learn 2 new chords, you can easily judge whether or not you've learned 2 new chords after 7 days. However, if you set a goal like “practice new chords,” it's harder to tell whether you've actually achieved this goal by the end of the week. | Balance the body of the guitar on top of your dominant thigh to hold it. Grip the neck using your thumb and forefinger. Memorize the names and numbers for the different strings of the guitar. Hold your pick with a firm but comfortable grip. Play the guitar without fretting any strings to practice your strumming. Practice strumming and fretting the strings at the same time. Dip your fingertips in ice water or rubbing alcohol to manage finger pain. Start out by learning to play a simple first position chord. Learn how to play 3 more simple chords after you’ve mastered 1. Practice switching from 1 chord to another. Add increasingly complex chords to your repertoire. Create a daily practice schedule and stick to it. Use music books to learn new chords and techniques. Visit music websites to find tabs and tutorials for songs. Set a realistic goal to achieve with your practicing each week. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Registered-Dietitian | How to Become a Registered Dietitian | To become a registered dietician, you'll need to earn your bachelor's degree in a major such as dietetics, nutrition, or food science. You'll also need to complete an internship while you're finishing your studies. Then, once you graduate and complete your internship, you can take the Registered Dietitian Exam. | Choose between a Coordinated or Didactic Program. A Coordinated Program in Dietetics (CP) includes your internship as part of your education. When you graduate from a CP, you can sit for the Commission on Dietetic Registration (CDR) exam immediately. If you attend a Didactic Program in Dietetics (DPD), you'll have to arrange the internship on your own. Check to see which programs are CPs and which are DPDs. A CP might be a bit more expensive to begin with, but it could save you money in the long run, since you won't have to apply for internships on your own. DPD programs are a good option if you're looking to save money ahead of time and think you can work and save money before you apply for your internship. Earn a bachelor’s degree through an accredited program. All RDs must have a bachelor's degree from a program accredited by the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics' Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics (ACEND)-accredited program. Your major name will vary depending on the school you attend. You might major in Dietetics, Nutrition and Dietetics, Food Science and Nutrition, Human Nutrition, or Nutritional Sciences. If you're unsure which major to declare, talk to your academic advisor. Choose your concentrations. Each ACEND-accredited program has areas of concentration for you to choose from. Depending on your school, you might choose one or two concentrations. Options for concentrations include health promotion/disease prevention, public health nutrition, urban health and nutrition, food service management, and nutrition education. In some programs, you'll choose your concentrations right away. In others, you won't have to decide until you get some course work out of the way. Talk to your advisor about when you should choose your concentrations. If you're unsure which concentration to choose, you can speak to one of your faculty members. Tell them what you'd like to do with your nutrition degree and they can tell you which concentrations would be best. Complete your internship. CP programs include an internship as part of your education. Your internship will be arranged by your faculty, and you'll complete it before graduation. Make sure you discuss your post-graduation goals with your advisor so they can help you find an appropriate internship. Search for internships. The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics works with a company called D&D Digital to match DPD program graduates with internships. You'll be able to find available internships through the D&D websites. Search for those internships first so you know what's expected during the application process for each of them. Make sure you qualify academically. The competition for Dietetic Internships (DIs) is fierce – only half of the people who apply for one get it. The minimum GPA for most DIs is 3.0, but the higher your GPA, the more competitive you'll be. Take the GRE. Some DI programs require that you take the GRE before applying for the internship. The minimum required GRE score will vary from internship to internship, so make sure you check with the internship you want. The higher the score, the better. The GRE costs about $240 to take. You can find great study guides for the GRE on the College Board website and at your local bookstore. Secure letters of recommendation. The number of letters you need will also vary by internship, so make sure you know how many you need. You should ask people who know you well and are familiar with your work ethic and think you do good work. Your dietetics professors are great choices for writing your letters. Write customized cover letters. Each internship program will want you to address different things in your cover letter. Customize each cover letter to the program you're applying for and make sure you address everything they ask for. Don't submit the same generic cover letter to each position. Apply through Dietetic Internship Central Application Service. Once you're ready to apply, you'll need to register with D&D Digital to create an account. Then you choose the internships you want to apply for and upload your materials. Each internship will have different application deadlines, so make sure you write them down during your initial search and keep track of them. You'll need to pay an application fee for each internship you want to apply for. These fees vary, but they're around $100 each. Wait for your match. Matches happen in April and November of every year. The exact date will vary, but you can expect a response sometime in those months. You should shoot for the deadlines related to the April match date if you're graduating in the spring, and the deadlines for the November match date if you're graduating in the winter. If you don't match right away, you might hear a few days after the original match date. Any unmatched internships will go to a second round of applicants after the first round has gone out. Reapply if you don’t match. If you don't get a match during your original match process, you can reapply. Check the D&D website to see which internships are still accepting applications and then email the director of the program. They can tell you if you should submit your application. If there aren't any internships accepting more applicants, you'll have to wait until the next matching round and redo the entire application process. Make sure your school submits your name for eligibility. As you get close to graduation, your program will submit your name to Pearson Vue – the testing company that administers the CDR. Check with your advisor to make sure that your name has been submitted. Check your email after you complete your internship. If you've attended a CP, your internship will be part of your education. If you attended a DPD, you'll have to complete your internship on your own. Once the internship is complete, Pearson Vue will email you with instructions for registering for the exam. Pay for the exam. Once you've registered for the exam, you'll need to pay for it. It's $200 to register for and take the exam. You'll have to pay online with a credit or debit card. Schedule your exam within a year of becoming eligible. Once you've paid the registration fee, you'll get an email from Pearson Vue about scheduling the date and time of the exam. Bring the correct documentation. When you go for your exam, you'll need to bring a copy of your eligibility email – which should have come from your program after you finished your internship. You also need to bring a drivers' license or state photo ID. Retake the exam if necessary. You need a score of 25 or higher to pass the exam. Because the number of questions you have to answer varies from exam to exam, how many you have to answer correctly to pass will vary. If you fail, you can retake the exam after 45 days. You'll have to pay the same amount for the retake as you did for the original exam. There is no limit to how many times you can retake the exam, as long as you wait 45 days between each attempt. Maintain your credential. After you pass the CDR, you'll get information from Pearson Vue on how to maintain your RD credential. You'll have to pay a maintenance fee and take part in continuing education opportunities every 5 years. | Choose between a Coordinated or Didactic Program. Earn a bachelor’s degree through an accredited program. Choose your concentrations. Complete your internship. Search for internships. Make sure you qualify academically. Take the GRE. Secure letters of recommendation. Write customized cover letters. Apply through Dietetic Internship Central Application Service. Wait for your match. Reapply if you don’t match. Make sure your school submits your name for eligibility. Check your email after you complete your internship. Pay for the exam. Schedule your exam within a year of becoming eligible. Bring the correct documentation. Retake the exam if necessary. Maintain your credential. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Lipstick-Last-All-Day | How to Make Lipstick Last All Day | To make lipstick last all day, exfoliate your lips with a lip scrub or soft toothbrush before applying your lipstick, which will get rid of dead skin cells so your lipstick sinks in better. Also, apply lip balm and let it absorb into your lips since dry, cracked lips can cause your lipstick to flake off. Then, after you apply your lipstick, take a tissue and separate the layers so you're left with just one thin sheet. Finally, place the sheet over your lips and apply loose, translucent powder on top of the sheet using a brush, which will set your lipstick so it stays in place all day. | Select a matte formula. Not all lipsticks are created equal. Makeup artists suggest that in order of longevity matte formulas have the most staying power, followed by cream formulas, then liquid lipsticks, with lip glosses coming in last. In general, the more moisturizing your lip product is, the shorter its wear time will be. Invest in a lip primer. These are specially designed products that prime the lips for lipstick application and help the color adhere to the lips. They are available from many different brands. Some makeup artists use concealer or foundation over the lips to similar effect. This has the added benefit of canceling out the natural color of your lips so that the true color of the lipstick shows up. Outline your lips with reverse lip liner or concealer. Reverse lip liner is a colorless product that can be applied to the skin just outside the outline of your lips to provide a barrier and prevent feathering around the edge of your lips. As an alternative, apply concealer in this same area to prevent bleeding and help your lipstick stay in place. Feathering occurs when the lipstick bleeds into the fine lines around the edge of your lips. These fine lines get more pronounced as we age. Get a lip brush for precise application. The key to long-wearing lipstick is to apply several thin layers. This is best achieved with a lip brush, which also allows for greater precision and control. A lip brush can help you apply the product neatly and precisely. It also ensures a more even distribution of product than when lipstick is applied right from the bullet. Use several products together for a really long lasting effect. Experts recommend using a lip primer and a lip liner with a lipstick on top or a liquid lip stain underneath a lipstick. Then as one layer wears off, the base layer remains intact. Make sure they are similar colors! Prep your lips by gently exfoliating. This will get rid of all the dead skin sitting on top of your lips that prevents the lipstick sinking in. It will also create a smooth, blank canvas for the lipstick to ensure even application. Use a lip scrub. Many brands offer these types of product. You can also make your own with sugar, honey, and olive or coconut oil. Gently scrub your lips with a soft toothbrush. Don't go too hard, you just want to remove loose dead skin. Use a damp washcloth on your lips, moving it in soft, circular motions to lift the dead skin. Apply a hydrating lip balm. This ensures that the lips are moisturized. Applying lipstick to dry, cracked lips, especially a matte formula, can make lips look patchy and flaky. Use a balm with waxy consistency not a slippery or oily one which will cause the lipstick to move around. Allow some time for the lip balm to absorb before going on to the next step. Make this the first step in your makeup routine and do the rest of your face while the balm is absorbing. This can help your lips feel more comfortable, especially if you're not used to wearing matte lipstick. Apply lip liner as a base. Lip liner typically has a drier consistency than lipstick, so it serves as a layer for the lipstick to grip onto. Get a sharp cupid's bow by drawing an x in the center of your top lip, then draw around the outline of your lips. Use the point of the lip liner pencil for this. Then, use the the pencil to fill in your whole lip. Filling in your whole lip is important because if the top layer of lip color wears off it won't reveal a sharp line. Use the side of the lip pencil to fill in the whole lip area. You can also use a lip stain under your lipstick to help the color last longer. Apply a thin layer of lipstick. You can do this either straight from the tube or with a lip brush. Blot the lipstick with a tissue. Using a folded tissue, open your mouth and place it between your upper and lower lips, then press down on the tissue. This removes any excess product and keeps lipstick from transferring onto your teeth or clothing. Apply a light dusting of powder to set. Professional makeup artists use this trick to set the lipstick without moving any of the color. Get a tissue and separate the layers out. Place just one thin sheet over your lips and apply loose, translucent powder with a big fluffy powder brush on top of the tissue. You can apply powder directly to the lips to set if you don't have any tissues on hand, but be aware that overdoing it could result in a dry or discolored result. Apply another thin layer of lipstick. Repeat the previous steps of blotting and setting with powder. This should give your lipstick real staying power. Finally, you can use a setting spray if you have one. Reapply after eating or drinking. It is inevitable that your lip color will fade slightly over the course of the day. However, the change will be most noticeable when your lips come in direct contact with cups or utensils. Bring your lipstick and apply another thin layer to top up the color after meals. Carry a compact mirror to check for smudging or movement. Remember to check the lipstick hasn't transferred to your teeth. Be careful when re-applying lip balm. You may find your lips require hydration as the day goes on, especially with drier formulas such as mattes. However, the oil in lip balm actually breaks up the color, causing it to wear off and fade. If you find your lips get dry through the day, opt for a more moisturizing lipstick formula and make sure you don't skip the crucial step of hydrating before application. Avoid licking your lips. Not only will this make your lip color fade, it actually makes your lips drier over time. If you do apply lip balm, allow it to absorb for a minute or two, blot any excess off with a tissue and then follow up with another layer of lipstick. This gives your lips some much-needed moisture without the lip color fading. Apply lip balm sparingly. Excessive use of lip balm can hinder your lips' natural ability to produce their own moisture. Experiment with different products until you get one that works for you. Once you have a solid grasp of the application technique you can begin to try different combinations to figure out which lipsticks offer the best longevity. | Select a matte formula. Invest in a lip primer. Outline your lips with reverse lip liner or concealer. Get a lip brush for precise application. Use several products together for a really long lasting effect. Prep your lips by gently exfoliating. Apply a hydrating lip balm. Apply lip liner as a base. Apply a thin layer of lipstick. Blot the lipstick with a tissue. Apply a light dusting of powder to set. Apply another thin layer of lipstick. Reapply after eating or drinking. Be careful when re-applying lip balm. Experiment with different products until you get one that works for you. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Microsuede-Furniture | How to Clean Microsuede Furniture | To clean your microsuede furniture, vacuum it once a week to remove crumbs and dust. You can also remove odors from your furniture by sprinkling powdered laundry detergent on it, gently brushing the detergent into the fabric, then vacuuming it up. If you're treating spills or stains, wipe them up as quickly as you can. You can then wet a cloth with a little vinegar and rub it into your furniture to remove an oil-based stain. For more stubborn stains, soak a cloth in rubbing alcohol or vodka and rub it on the stains until they come clean. | Know your microfiber code. Microsuede furniture should come with a tag printed with a code indicating what kind of cleaning solutions can be used on the material. The code will appear as "W," "S" or "S-W." "W" indicates that a water-based cleaning solution may be used. "S" indicates that a solvent-based cleaner (or one which dissolves chemical compounds) can be used. "S-W" indicates that you may safely use both types of cleaners. "X" means that you should vacuum clean only and skip the cleaning solution. Vacuum microsuede to remove crumbs and dust. Running a vacuum over the fabric once a week, or more often if you have a pet that sheds, will keep it looking clean and new. If you have a very powerful or unwieldy vacuum, use a furniture brush instead. Even if the care tag says "W" or "S" on it, you should still vacuum the furniture before applying a cleaning solution. Wash your microsuede once every few months. As long as the care tag indicates that you can apply a cleaning solution, it should be safe to use. Even if the fabric isn't stained, washing it will keep it smelling fresh and looking clean. It's a good idea to clean a test spot with your chosen cleaner first to double-check that it won't stain or discolor the material. Buy the right type of cleaning solution for your fabric. Fill a spray bottle with the type of solution recommended by the manufacturer of your microsuede. You can use commercial cleaners on "W," "S," and "S-W" pieces. Alternatively, you can wash "W" furniture with cold, soapy water. For "S" furniture, you could use undiluted rubbing alcohol. Avoid using water or solvents on "X" pieces. Spray the area to be cleaned. To clean the entire upholstered surface of the furniture, work in three-foot increments to avoid over-saturating one area. Wipe the cleaning liquid from the furniture. Apply pressure to the saturated areas of the microsuede using a clean, non-colored cloth. Gently rub the cloth in a circular motion. Wipe the fabric with a second sponge to remove excess moisture. Allow the furniture to dry. Microfiber material will dry quickly. Allow 15 to 20 minutes for the furniture to completely dry before using it. Launder microsuede cushion and pillow covers. Some removable microsuede covers are machine washable. Check the manufacturer's instructions before laundering your microsuede. Wipe up spills right away. If you can catch a spill before it soaks in, you may be able to prevent a stain. A quick wipe with a paper towel or cloth will take care of most small spills. Don't rub the spill into the fabric; dab it lightly so it won't soak in. Sprinkle baking soda over larger spills. When it dries, run a vacuum over it. Do a spot test before applying solution for stains. Choose a spot on the bottom or back of your furniture; you never know if a stain-removal method might damage or cause discoloration to your fabric. Use alcohol for stubborn stains. Soak a cloth or piece of cotton in rubbing alcohol and gently rub the stain until it is removed. Hand wipes containing alcohol are useful for this purpose. You can also use vodka if you don't have rubbing alcohol in the house. Just be sure not to use a liquid that isn't clear. Try vinegar on oil stains. Wet a cloth with vinegar and rub the stain until it is removed. To prevent the vinegar smell from lingering, wash the microsuede with water or solvent-based solution, whichever your microsuede requires, after applying the vinegar. Scrub when all else fails. Use a concentrated amount of the cleaning solution approved by your microsuede manufacturer. Spray the stained area liberally and scrub with a brush until the stain is removed. | Know your microfiber code. Vacuum microsuede to remove crumbs and dust. Wash your microsuede once every few months. Buy the right type of cleaning solution for your fabric. Spray the area to be cleaned. Wipe the cleaning liquid from the furniture. Allow the furniture to dry. Launder microsuede cushion and pillow covers. Wipe up spills right away. Do a spot test before applying solution for stains. Use alcohol for stubborn stains. Try vinegar on oil stains. Scrub when all else fails. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Serious | How to Be Serious | To be a more serious person, stay focused by prioritizing your tasks in order of urgency and importance. Then, set aside a time of day to devote solely to that task in order to manage your time more effectively. Additionally, adopt mature, meaningful habits like waking up at the same time every day, practicing good hygiene, and dressing neatly. Throughout the day, maintain a mature and professional demeanor by being helpful to others, and treating them as you would want to be treated. | Train your brain. If you have trouble staying focused, it can help to think of your brain as a muscle, and just like the rest of your muscles, it needs to be exercised to be effective at its job. Set aside a time of day to practice focusing on a single task. Start small-just take a few minutes at first each day to really make yourself fully focus on single task. If and when you find your mind wandering, immediately return to the task at hand. If you realize you've drifted off task, that's half the battle! Realize that everything you do has a result. For every action, there is an equal and opposite reaction. What you choose to do does have consequences-often in ways you can't foresee or possibly know of. Being serious involves recognizing what most needs your attention, and focusing on it. Always avoid procrastination. Not only does procrastinating cause stress and contribute to depression and anxiety, it can be a major factor in reducing overall productivity and leading to unintended consequences. Example: I need to trim a dead tree branch hanging over my house. Instead I decide I'll do it later and play a video game now. Later that day, my friend calls, and desperately needs a ride from the airport. The branch doesn't get trimmed. That night there's a huge windstorm. The branch falls and punches a hole in my roof. Now, instead of simply trimming a tree branch, I have to get my roof fixed, too! Take care of what needs attention first-you may regret it if you don't. Reduce the need to multitask. Multitasking makes us feel like we're being productive, but in reality too much multitasking can cause distraction and lessen our effectiveness. Take each task individually, get it done, and move on to the next. Tackle your most difficult tasks first. Getting the most difficult or least pleasant tasks out of the way first will give you a huge boost and reduce the possibility of procrastination. After getting the biggest obstacle out of the way, the other items on your list will seem like a breeze. Make a list. Make a list the night before of the day's tasks in order of urgency and importance. If you have a smartphone, then you have a powerful organizational tool at your fingertips! There are many useful apps for creating a concise and helpful to do list. Using an app can also help you keep your lists organized, rather than creating a sea of paper. Remember, put the most difficult tasks at the top of your list. Get up in the morning and make your bed. Starting the day with a positive accomplishment, however small, gets the ball of accomplishment for the rest of the day rolling. Then look at your prioritized list. Take each item one at a time, and let each task completed be a segue into the next. After each task is accomplished, the next words out of an effective and serious person's mouth are, "what's next?". Let that be your mantra. Always ask yourself, "what's next?". Allow yourself a short break from time to time. But don't get sidetracked! Specify what your break will entail. Think, "I'll finish this episode of my favorite show while I eat this banana, then back to the task at hand." Stick to it-once you let yourself slide off the schedule, it's a slippery slope to accomplishing nothing at all. Use your time wisely. Recognize that time is finite, and think of it as a resource. Be aware of the time you spend on a task. Don't become so swept up in mundane details that you waste time on things that don't matter. Ask yourself, "how is the time I'm spending on this advancing me toward my goal? Be able to put things aside that are holding you back from accomplishing what you set out to accomplish, or, if the way you've chosen to go about a task isn't working, try something else. Be flexible; be malleable. Be able to bend without breaking. Know how far you can go. Knowing your limits isn't limiting, but freeing! Accepting that you have accomplished tasks to the best of your abilities is hugely rewarding. Remember, completing any task gives you a boost to accomplish more. Take simple steps, and continue to do so, and over time you will accomplish a great deal. Understand the rules of the game. Some rules can be changed and others cannot. Having the grace to change what you can and accept what you cannot is huge in being a more serious person. To fret over mundane details of life you wish could be different, but know deep down cannot, is to limit yourself. When you come upon an immovable obstacle, go around it , and proceed on your course. Look ahead, not back. As we grow older, we tend to want to hang on to youthful behaviors. Everyone goes through periods of conflict between the desire to be carefree and just have fun, and being mature and responsible. Let's face it-often being mature and serious is the less immediately pleasant way of living life. However, being more serious in life involves realizing that the long term benefits of being responsible and taking care of business outweigh hedonistic pleasures. Wake everyday with the intention of being mature. Be aware each morning that some of the decisions ahead in your day will involve foregoing fun in favor of accomplishment. Consider your social stature. If you want to be serious, be aware of how your everyday behavior reflects that. You are how you act, so making the effort to be serious and mature in your actions throughout the day, even the small things, is important to truly being serious. Be in control of your emotions. One of the most important part of being mature is having the ability to control your emotions, rather than them controlling you. Consider your feelings carefully before acting on them. Act, don't react. When you behave with maturity, you're using the rational and reasoning side of yourself rather than the animalistic, instinctual side. When someone speaks to you, especially in moments of conflict, pause and consider your reply with a cool head before responding. What first pops into your head isn't always the best thing to say. Think before you speak. Apply that to actions especially. Actions speak louder than words, so be especially aware of how your actions reflect on your level of maturity. Do you act only after cooly thinking out your course, or do you react without consider the consequences? Love yourself. Part of being mature is recognizing that you have worth. It's often easier to beat oneself up over mistakes than to learn from them. If you want to be more mature and live a more serious life, make the effort to respect yourself and value yourself. Treat your body with respect. Eat well, and get plenty of exercise and sleep. Keep friends who value you, get rid of people who don't. Friends will respect you and understand that you are special for being you. Everyone crosses paths with people who do not do those things. You have no obligation to keep them around. Part of maturity is making the tough decisions about who we associate with. Be self aware (as opposed to self conscious). Being self aware doesn't mean you are being shy or embarrassed, aspects we usually associate with self-consciousness, but that you have the capacity to reflect on yourself, both inwardly and outwardly. Practice good hygiene. Taking pride in oneself enough to practice good hygiene is important in being a serious and meaningful person. It is also healthier and will simply help you feel good! Keep your hair and fingernails trimmed. Brush your teeth at least twice daily. Practicing good oral hygiene not only shows others that you are a serious and put together person, but it also helps protect against bacterial infection and is beneficial for your health overall. Wear clothes that you like, neatly. Wear clothes that you want to wear, and that are neat, is important in showing that you are a serious person. It doesn't have to mean that you are vain or overly self-conscious, but simply that you care enough about your own well being to take care of yourself. Be helpful to other human beings. It is so easy in today's world to become focused on "me" that we often forget that one of the most rewarding and productive things we can do is to focus on the well-being of others. When you are helpful to others, even in small, everyday ways, you will find that your overall sense of your own well being will greatly increase and your confidence in the tasks and goals you have before you will be much greater. Greater confidence in yourself and your own abilities results in much higher personal productivity, and, in turn, will help you to become a more serious person. Volunteer. Get involved in local volunteer opportunities. In 2013 alone, over 62 million Americans engaged in some form of volunteer work. Do you have a soft spot for kids? For old folks? For animals? Maybe you'd like to help maintain trails at a local park, or feed the homeless in a soup kitchen. Volunteer opportunities abound everywhere, especially in urban centers. Even a couple hours a week, or even a month, can help give you a sense of focus and purpose in your life. Volunteering not only makes you feel good about yourself, it connects you with others, increases your social skills, combats depression, and helps keep you healthy. Practice the golden rule. When you do to others as you would have done to yourself, you create a loop of goodwill. This isn't just for morality's sake; the more you show goodwill to others, the more likely they will be to contribute to your own advancement. | Train your brain. Realize that everything you do has a result. Reduce the need to multitask. Tackle your most difficult tasks first. Make a list. Get up in the morning and make your bed. Allow yourself a short break from time to time. Use your time wisely. Know how far you can go. Understand the rules of the game. Look ahead, not back. Consider your social stature. Be in control of your emotions. Love yourself. Be self aware (as opposed to self conscious). Practice good hygiene. Wear clothes that you like, neatly. Be helpful to other human beings. Volunteer. Practice the golden rule. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Encourage-Someone-to-See-a-Therapist | How to Encourage Someone to See a Therapist | While encouraging someone to see a therapist can be difficult, starting from a place of caring and empathy can make introducing the topic a little easier. Try to find a quiet time of day to talk one-on-one about what you've seen that concerns you. For example, you might tell the person “I've noticed you sleeping late and not eating much. When you do come out of your room, you move slowly and always frown.” Then, remind the person how much you care about them and their feelings before suggesting that they see a therapist to help them gain some coping strategies. If the person is ready to admit they're struggling, offer to help them by asking what they need, offering to find some therapists for them, or asking if they want to schedule in some quiet walks to touch base. | Be prepared to start from a place of caring and empathy. Your goal is to be as compassionate and nonjudgmental as possible, to encourage the person to take good care of themselves and get the help they need to feel better. Be prepared to listen and validate their feelings. Choose a good time and place. You'll want a quiet time of day, when you can talk one-on-one with the person when they aren't distracted by other tasks. Search for a time and place that is... Quiet, where there aren't distractions, and any tasks are automatic (e.g. folding laundry or doing dishes) Private, without eavesdroppers or other people to "gang up on" the person and overwhelm them Calm, where there aren't major tasks to complete, and nobody is feeling emotional, so the person can be more receptive Tell them about what you've seen that concerns you. State what you've observed in the person, without adding judgments (e.g. "you're lazy") or armchair diagnoses (e.g. "you have anorexia"). Just state the patterns that have caught your eye and made you feel worried. "Anne, I've noticed you sleeping late and not eating much. When you do come out of your room, you move slowly and often have a big frown on your face." "Javier, I've seen you only eating small amounts of food for meals, and trying to hide it. I've also heard you make excuses a lot of times when people invite you to eat with them. Your face has gotten so much thinner these months." "I've noticed you wearing long sleeves a lot. Sometimes when you come out of your room, your eyes are puffy, and sometimes I catch glimpses of bandages on your arms." Emphasize your caring for them. Remind the person how much they matter to you, and that you care about your feelings. Sometimes, people get defensive when their mental health symptoms are spotted, and other times, people don't believe that they deserve help. It helps to remind them that you're bringing this up because their well-being matters to you. "I love you, Anne, and it worries me to see you struggling so much. I've seen these new habits in you ever since your mom passed away. I know she meant so much to you, and I can tell you're struggling to cope." "Javier, you are so important to me, and it scares me to watch you taking up these habits. I couldn't imagine what I would do if you were hospitalized or gone from my life. You're too special to me." "I see these things, and I worry, because I love you and want you to be happy. And if you're not happy, then I want to do what I can to help make things easier on you. You're my child. Your feelings matter to me." Suggest therapy as a way to help. Therapy isn't a quick fix, but it can help make things better over time. "I want to help you as best as I can. I'm just not sure that I can offer enough for you. I think that a counselor may be able to help you gain some strategies for coping with this." "I would feel a lot better if you'd be willing to see a doctor or a therapist to get some help with this." Offer help, if the person is receptive. If the person is ready to admit that they're struggling, they may feel lost or confused about how to make things better. Or, they may have some things that they want but aren't sure how to ask for. You can facilitate by asking what they need, and offering suggestions of things you'd be willing to do to help them. "What do you need?" "Would you like me to set up appointments with a few therapists, so you could try it out and pick the therapist who feels like the best fit?" "What if I handled the cooking for the next week?" "Would it help if I drove you there and back? You could talk to me as much or as little as you wanted on the way." "What could make your life easier?" "Would you like me to take you to the doctor? I could go in there with you for moral support, or I could hang back in the waiting room." "What if we took walks every evening to touch base and hang out?" (to someone who has agreed to an appointment) "Now, what can we do to help you hang in there until your first appointment?" Be patient and gentle with a reluctant person. Some people are afraid of therapy, or not ready to admit that they have a problem. Keep being there for them, helping them out, and showing them compassion. Get help if you're worried about the person's safety. Depending on the type of illness and its severity, you may be worried that the person's life or safety is at risk. If the person is a child or teen, consider talking to their parent(s)/guardian(s), school counselor, or other trusted mentors if you see signs of mental illness. Adults can help intervene before the illness progresses too far. Call emergency services if you believe someone is going to hurt themselves. (In the US, be careful, as police may shoot people with mental illnesses, instead of helping. ) Tell your loved one that their feelings are understandable. Whether the person you're encouraging to see a therapist is suffering from a mental disorder, or addiction, or simply going through a hard time, telling your loved one that what she feels is normal is the first step to detaching therapy from stigmas. Remind your friend or loved one that people of their age, gender, ethnicity, nationality, and people with their same struggle can and do attend therapy without stigma or shame. Consider reminding them that problems like these are related to medical conditions. Depression, anxiety, and phobias are all medical problems. Addiction is also, at its root, a medical problem. Everyone gets medical problems from time to time, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with seeking treatment. Try comparing therapy to seeing a doctor for any other medical condition. Ask your loved one, "You wouldn't avoid seeing a doctor for a heart or lung problem, right? So how is this any different?" Reiterate that getting help is common and normal. According to recent studies, 27% of adults in America have sought and received some type of treatment for mental health-related issues. That's more than one in four, on average, or about 80 million people. Try saying something like, "I'm here for you, no matter what. I would not think any less of you for needing to get help." Let your loved one know that you support them and don't think less of them. It can help for them to have reassurance that you will still have the same respect for them. If you'd like, you can tell them that you think that seeking help is an act of courage. For example, if they say "I can do it myself. I'm not weak," then you might say "I think it's very brave for people to seek out help when they're getting overwhelmed. It's really courageous." Ask your loved one to pinpoint what they're afraid of. Getting your loved one to open up to you about specific fears and concerns may be a good first step toward getting that person to see a therapist. Try opening the conversation by admitting to some of your own fears and worries. This might make the dialogue feel like more of a conversation about fear and therapy, rather than a command to get help. If you have any other friends who have had success with therapy, consider citing that person as an example of how effective therapy can be. You can also ask your friend who has been through therapy to discuss their experiences with your loved on to help pacify their fears and to answer questions. Address each fear with logic. Sometimes, a gentle reality check can help people who are dealing with strong fears. Here are some examples of things a person may worry about, and things you could say to reassure them: "What if I'm stuck in therapy forever?" "Therapy only lasts as long as it needs to, and lifelong therapy is pretty rare. For example, CBT normally lasts 10-20 sessions. If you have a lot to work through and your therapist is really helping, it might take 1-2 years. Long-term therapy is usually for people with lifelong conditions like BPD or autism. And you can quit therapy anytime. You stop when you're ready to stop." "What about the cost?" "I can help you look for therapists who take insurance, or work for reduced fees based on need. There are resources, and I can help you look." "What if the therapist is mean or says I'm faking it?" "Most therapists are kind, helpful people. We can get you appointments with several therapists, and you can choose your favorite. If you somehow get a rotten therapist who is mean to you, you can leave and never see them again." Help your loved one find a therapist. Finding a therapist to meet your loved one's needs can be easily done online, or through a list provided by your loved one's insurance company. The American Psychological Association offers a free psychologist-locator service at http://locator.apa.org/. Offer to accompany your loved one to the office on the first visit. You may be able to sit in on the appointment (if your loved one is comfortable), or you can sit in the waiting room, where they can call for you anytime they need you. Having you with them in the car, and in the building, can help ease the transition to therapy. Let your loved one know about doctor-patient confidentiality. What your loved one says in therapy is generally protected and kept private. Therapists are not supposed to disclose information without the patient's permission, except in cases where someone is in serious danger (e.g. the patient saying they will commit suicide). Remember that these laws differ by state and by country, but all therapists are required to disclose the details of confidentiality verbally and in writing. You can ask for a copy of their informed consent agreement prior to making the appointment. Ask your loved one what about vulnerability they find frightening. Reassure them that being scared of vulnerability is normal, and they're allowed to feel this way. If they're willing to be brave and do it, they may really benefit. According to recent surveys, nearly 89% of people feel somewhat better after having an emotional release like crying, and doctors widely recommend talking about problems as a means of finding relief. Here are things your loved one might say, and ways you can reassure them: "I'm scared to open up." "It's okay to open yourself up to someone. It's what we do to friends and significant others. You need to build a relationship with a therapist, and open honesty is the only way to do that." "What if they say it's my fault or that I'm faking?" "Therapists are trained to be helpful, patient, and kind. Most therapists are really good listeners and helpers. If you do get a bad one, then I promise you can leave and never come back." "I'm scared to face my feelings." "It's okay to be scared, especially of big feelings that you've been bottling up. You can take your time in therapy, and start small. Therapists are trained to help you deal with big feelings. And you can tell the therapist that you're scared of your feelings, so they can adjust things accordingly." Reassure your loved one that they can tell their therapist about their therapy-related fears. Your loved one can tell the therapist things like "I'm nervous about this and I don't know what to expect" or "I'm scared that you won't believe me," and the therapist can make adjustments accordingly. A good therapist can help them deal with those fears (and a bad one will likely show their true colors quickly). Remind your loved one about the potential outcome. The worst thing that could happen from going to therapy is that nothing will change. But the best-case scenario is that your loved one will find comfort, relief, and a new perspective on life. Reiterate to your friend or loved one once again that you care about her and are there for her, no matter what happens. Encourage your loved one to be open and honest with their therapist and explain to their therapist what is not working. The therapist may have a different approach to try or may help your loved one find a therapist who is be better suited to help them. | Be prepared to start from a place of caring and empathy. Choose a good time and place. Tell them about what you've seen that concerns you. Emphasize your caring for them. Suggest therapy as a way to help. Offer help, if the person is receptive. Be patient and gentle with a reluctant person. Get help if you're worried about the person's safety. Tell your loved one that their feelings are understandable. Consider reminding them that problems like these are related to medical conditions. Reiterate that getting help is common and normal. Let your loved one know that you support them and don't think less of them. Ask your loved one to pinpoint what they're afraid of. Address each fear with logic. Help your loved one find a therapist. Offer to accompany your loved one to the office on the first visit. Let your loved one know about doctor-patient confidentiality. Ask your loved one what about vulnerability they find frightening. Reassure your loved one that they can tell their therapist about their therapy-related fears. Remind your loved one about the potential outcome. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-the-Smell-of-Oven-Cleaner | How to Remove the Smell of Oven Cleaner | One way to get rid of the smell of oven cleaner is by using vanilla extract. First, fill a small bowl with water and add 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Dip a clean cloth into the water and wipe down the entire inside of your oven a few times to spread the smell. You could also fill a small baking dish with an inch of water and add 1 teaspoon of the vanilla extract and bake it on low heat for up to an hour. You can also use orange peels to get rid of oven cleaner odors. Place some orange peels on a baking sheet and bake them on low heat for up to an hour. Then, turn off the oven and open the door for a little bit. | Wipe the oven down with vanilla. On top of smelling like grandma's house and the holidays, the smell of vanilla can also act as a great mask for other odors. After you've cleaned your oven, there are two ways you can use vanilla to make it smell more pleasant: Fill a small bowl with water and add one teaspoon (six ml) of vanilla extract or 10 drops of vanilla essential oil. Dip a cloth into the bowl and wring out the excess water. With the damp cloth, wipe down the insides of the oven, including the walls, bottom, roof, and the racks. Dip the cloth into the water often, and go over the entire oven a few times to spread the vanilla smell. Instead of wiping the oven down with vanilla, you can also bake the vanilla to get the smell into the appliance. Preheat the oven to 250 F (121 C). Fill a small baking dish with an inch (2.5 cm) of water and add in one teaspoon (six ml) of vanilla extract. Place the bowl in the oven and let it heat up for about an hour. Check on it every 15 minutes or so, and add more water as needed if there's a lot of evaporation going on. Freshen it up with lemons. Lemons are another miracle odor killer, and they'll leave your kitchen smelling summer fresh and yummy. Not only that, but citrus itself is a great cleaner, so lemons will help loosen any leftover grease and buildup in your oven as well. Preheat the oven to 250 F (121 C). Cut two lemons in half and squeeze most of the juice into a baking dish. Add an inch (2.5 cm) of water, and place the lemon halves into the dish as well. When the oven is hot, place the dish on the rack and allow it to heat up for 30 minutes to an hour. Bake fresh oranges. Another similar method to remove chemical and food smells from your oven is to bake oranges. The citrus in the orange has a similar cleaning power to lemons, and it will also make your house smell fresh and clean. Preheat your oven to 250 F (121 C). Peel an orange with your fingers or a knife and set the flesh aside for eating or juicing. Place the peels on a baking sheet and bake them for 30 minutes to an hour. After an hour, turn off the oven and open the oven door slightly to allow the citrus smell to escape. You can use any citrus for this, or a combination, such as lemons, limes, and grapefruits. If you don't have any citrus fruits, you can also pour 1 cup (240 mL) of white vinegar into an oven-safe bowl and put it in the oven for 20 minutes at the lowest temperature setting to get rid of the oven cleaner smell. Make a DIY cleaning paste. You don't need a strong commercial cleaner to clean your oven, and can actually make your own cleaning paste with stuff found in the kitchen and bathroom. There are several cleaning products you can make, including: A mixture of course salt and lemon juice. Mix a half cup (146 g) of course salt with a half cup (120 ml) of lemon juice. A simple baking soda paste. To make this, combine one-half cup (110 g) baking soda with enough water to make a paste. A baking soda soap mix. You can make this by combining a cup of baking soda (220 g) with a half cup (146 g) of coarse salt, plus one-quarter cup (60 ml) castile soap. Remove and clean the racks. To clean the racks, place a large towel down in a bathtub and place the racks on the towel (the towel will protect the tub from scratches). Cover them with hot or boiling water, then add in some of your homemade cleaner or dish detergent. Allow the racks to soak for a couple hours before scrubbing them with a non-abrasive scrubbing pad to remove grease and food. When the racks are clean, empty the tub and rinse them with clean water. Replace the towel in the tub with a dry one, then stand the racks up on the towel to dry. Spread the paste all over the oven. Use your hand or a clean cloth to coat the inside of the oven with your cleaning paste. Rub it in as you work, and make sure you get the entire surface area coated. Let the paste sit. In order to break up grease and baked-on food, allow the paste to sit in the oven overnight, or for 12 hours if possible. If you don't have that long to wait, let the paste sit for as long as possible before scrubbing. Scrub the oven. After the paste has had time to soak in, take a sponge with a non-abrasive scrubber attached and get it wet with warm water. If you don't have this type of sponge, use a cloth and a separate scrubber. Wring out the excess water so the sponge is damp. Go over the interior of the oven with the sponge, scrubbing the areas that need extra work, and wiping off the paste as you go. Rinse out the sponge often with clean water. Once you've wiped out the oven, spray it with white vinegar to activate any leftover baking soda or to get extra residue off, then wipe it down again with the sponge and clean water. Wipe the oven and replace the racks. When all the paste residue, grease, and vinegar are gone, wipe the oven out with a clean, dry towel. Replace the racks and leave the door open to allow any excess moisture to dry. | Wipe the oven down with vanilla. Freshen it up with lemons. Bake fresh oranges. Make a DIY cleaning paste. Remove and clean the racks. Spread the paste all over the oven. Let the paste sit. Scrub the oven. Wipe the oven and replace the racks. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Diagnose-Piriformis-Syndrome | How to Diagnose Piriformis Syndrome | Although you won't be able to diagnose piriformis syndrome at home, you should be able to recognize one of the more common symptoms, which is pain in the buttocks, since this is where the piriformis muscle is located. This pain might occur if you sit, stand, or lie down for longer than 15 to 20 minutes. You'll also notice that although the pain eases if you switch position, it doesn't completely go away. Another symptom to look out for is difficulty walking which is caused by compression of the sciatic nerve resulting from piriformis syndrome. Since the nerve is being compressed, you may start to feel a numb or tingling sensation in your leg or foot. | Consider your sex and age. Research indicates that women are six times more likely to have piriformis syndrome than men. Piriformis syndrome occurs most commonly in people between ages 30 and 50. The higher rate of diagnosis among women may be explained by the difference in biomechanics in men's and women's pelvises. Women may also develop piriformis syndrome during pregnancy. Because the pelvis widens during pregnancy, it can cause the attached muscles to contract. Pregnant women also often develop a pelvic tilt to accommodate the baby's weight, which can also lead the attached muscles to become tight. Evaluate your health. You may be more likely to be diagnosed with piriformis syndrome if you have certain other medical conditions, such as low back pain. About 15% of cases are due to a congenital or structural anomaly concerning the relationship between the piriformis muscle and the sciatic nerve. Consider your activities. The majority of cases of piriformis syndrome are caused by what doctors call “macrotraumas” or “microtraumas.” A macrotrauma is caused by a significant traumatic event, such as a fall or a car accident. Macro-trauma to the buttocks, which leads to inflammation of the soft tissue, muscle spasms, and nerve compression, is a common cause of piriformis syndrome. A microtrauma is a pattern of repeated minor injury to an area. For example, long-distance runners expose their legs to constant micro-trauma, which can eventually cause nerve inflammation and muscle spasm. Running, walking, climbing stairs, or even sitting for long periods of time can cause your piriformis muscle to compress and entrap the sciatic nerve, causing pain. Another form of microtrauma that may cause piriformis syndrome is “wallet neuritis.” This condition can occur when a person carries a wallet (or cellphone) in his back pocket, which can press against the sciatic nerve, causing irritation. Monitor the source, type, and intensity of pain. One of the more common symptoms of piriformis syndrome is pain felt in the buttocks, where the piriformis is located. If you consistently feel sharp pain in one of your buttocks, you may have piriformis syndrome. Other pain to look out for that could indicate this condition includes: Pain when sitting, standing, or lying down for longer than 15 to 20 minutes. Pain radiating down the back of your thigh, and sometimes into the back of the calf and into the foot. Pain that improves when you move around and gets worse when you sit still. Pain that is not completely relieved by a change of position. Groin and pelvic pain. This may include pain in the labia for women and pain in the scrotum for men. Dyspareunia (painful sexual intercourse) in women. Painful bowel movements. Evaluate your gait. The compression of your sciatic nerve caused by piriformis syndrome can cause difficulty walking. Your leg may feel weakened as well. The two main things to look for when experiencing difficulty walking include: Antalgic gait, which means a gait that develops to avoid pain. This usually leads to limping or shortening your gait to keep from feeling pain. Foot drop, which is when your forefoot drops without your control because of pain in your lower leg. You may not be able to pull the foot up towards your face. Take note of tingling or numbness. When your sciatic nerve becomes compressed due to piriformis syndrome, you may begin to feel a numb or tingling sensation in your foot or leg. These sensations, or “paraesthesias,” may present as “pins and needles,” numbness, or tingling. Consider seeing a specialist. Piriformis syndrome is difficult to diagnose because its symptoms are generally the same as the more common lumbar radiculopathy (numbness in the leg caused by low back pain). Both conditions are caused by the compression of the sciatic nerve. The only difference is where the sciatic nerve is being compressed. Piriformis syndrome is far more rare than low back pain, and most primary care physicians are not given much training in this syndrome. Instead, consider seeing an orthopedist, a specialist in physical medicine, or an osteopathic physician. You may need to see your primary care physician first to ask for a referral to a specialist. Be aware that there is no definitive test for piriformis syndrome. Your doctor may need to conduct an extensive physical exam and perform tests before reaching a diagnosis. Some tests, such as a MRI, CT scan, or nerve conduction study, may be used to rule out other conditions such as a herniated disc. Have your doctor conduct diagnostic tests. To determine if you have piriformis syndrome, your doctor will begin by evaluating your range of motion by asking you to perform several exercises including straight leg raises and leg rotations. There are a number of other tests that can indicate the presence of piriformis syndrome, including: The Lasègue sign : Your doctor will ask you to lie on your back, flex your hip at a 90 degree angle, and extend your knee straight out. A positive Lasègue sign means that pressure on the piriformis muscle while you are in this position causes you pain. The Freiberg Sign : In this test, your doctor will internally rotate and lift your leg while you lie flat on your back. Pain in your buttocks when doing this movement may indicate piriformis syndrome. The Pace Sign : In this test, you will lie on the unaffected side. Your doctor will flex your hip and knee, then rotate your hip while press down on your knee. If you feel pain, you may have piriformis syndrome. Your doctor may also “palpate” (examine with the fingers) your greater sciatic notch, a notch in one of your pelvic bones through which the piriformis muscle passes. Check for sensory changes. Your doctor will likely test your affected leg for sensory changes or a loss of sensation. For example, your doctor may lightly touch your affected leg or use an implement to cause a sensation. The affected leg will have noticeably less sensation than the unaffected leg. Have your doctor examine your muscles. Your doctor should check your muscle strength and size. Your affected leg will be weaker and may be shorter than your unaffected leg. Your doctor can also palpate your gluteus (the largest muscle in your buttocks) to determine the condition of the piriformis muscle. When the muscle is very tight and contracted, it can feel like a sausage. Your doctor will also check the amount of pain you experience from pressure on your gluteus muscle. If you experience pain or tenderness deep in the buttocks or hip region, this is a sign that your piriformis muscle is contracted. Your doctor will likely check for gluteal atrophy (shrinkage of the muscle). In chronic cases of piriformis syndrome, the muscle begins to wither and shrink. This can be seen in visual asymmetry, where the affected buttock is smaller than the unaffected buttock. Request a CT scan or an MRI. While doctors can check for signs by performing physical tests, there are currently no diagnostic tests that can fully diagnose piriformis syndrome. Because of this, your doctor may order a computed tomography scan (CAT scan or CT scan) and/or Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) to determine whether something else is compressing your sciatic nerve. A CT scan uses computer processes with x-rays to create 3D views of the inside of your body. This is achieved by taking cross-section views of your spine. A CT scan may help identify whether there are abnormalities near the piriformis muscle and can track any arthritic changes. An MRI uses radio waves and strong magnetic fields to create images of the inside of your body. An MRI can rule out other causes of low back pain or sciatic nerve pain. Talk to your doctor about an electromyography study. Electromyography tests the reaction of muscles when they are stimulated with electricity. This method is often used when a doctor is trying to figure out whether you have piriformis syndrome or a herniated disc. If you have piriformis syndrome, the muscles around your piriformis will react normally to electromyography. On the other hand, your piriformis muscle and gluteus maximus will react abnormally to the electricity. If you have a herniated disc, all of the muscles in the area may react abnormally. Electromyography tests have two components: A nerve conduction study will use electrodes taped to your skin to evaluate your motor neurons. A needle electrode exam will use a small needle inserted into your muscles to evaluate your muscles' electrical activity. Stop doing the activities that cause pain. Your doctor may recommend that you temporarily cease activities that cause the pain, such as running or cycling. If your pain is caused by the pressure from sitting for long periods of time, take regular breaks to get up and stretch. Doctors recommend that you get up, walk around, and lightly stretch every 20 minutes. If you are driving for long periods of time, take frequent breaks to stand and stretch. Avoid sitting or standing in the positions that cause pain. Get physical therapy. Physical therapy treatment is generally beneficial, especially if it is started early. Your doctor can work with your physical therapist to come up with a regimen that's right for you. Your physical therapist will probably guide you through a series of stretches, flexion, adduction, and rotation exercises. Soft-tissue massage of the gluteal and lumbosacral regions may also help relieve irritation. Consider alternative medicine. Chiropractic , yoga , acupuncture , and massage have all been used to treat piriformis syndrome. Because alternative medicine practices generally have not been scientifically researched to the same degree as more conventional medical approaches, you may want to consider discussing these methods with your doctor before beginning treatment. Consider trigger point therapy. Sometimes piriformis symptoms can be caused by trigger points, or more commonly known as muscle knots. These knots are usually present in the piriformis or gluteal muscles. Pressure on these knots can produce local and referred pain. Most of the time, trigger points can mimic" a piriformis syndrome. This is one reason why a lot of medical tests may come back negative, and may be the reason why doctors may under diagnose this condition. Seek a health professional that has training in trigger point therapy, such as a massage therapist, chiropractor, physical therapist or even a physician. If trigger points are the cause, a combination of acupressure, stretching and strengthening exercises will often be recommended. Ask your doctor for a stretching regimen. In addition to the exercises your physical therapist has you do, your doctor can recommend stretches for you to do at home. Common exercises include: Roll side to side while lying down. Flex and extend the knees while you are lying on each side. Repeat, alternating sides, for five minutes. Stand with your arms relaxed at your sides. Rotate side to side for one minute. Repeat every few hours. Lie flat on your back. Raise your hips with your hands and pedal your legs as though you were riding a bicycle. Do knee bends six times every few hours. You can use a countertop or chair for support if necessary. Use heat and cold therapy. Applying moist heat can loosen muscles, while applying ice after exercise can decrease pain and inflammation. To apply heat, try using a heating pad, or place a damp towel in the microwave for a few seconds before applying it to the area. You can also take a warm bath, which can help relieve the tension and irritation of piriformis syndrome. Allow your body to be buoyant in the water. To apply cold, use ice wrapped in a towel or a cold pack. Do not apply the ice or cold pack for more than 20 minutes. Use NSAID pain relievers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, or NSAIDs, help relieve pain and inflammation. They are generally recommended to treat pain and inflammation from piriformis syndrome. Common NSAIDs include aspirin, ibuprofen (Motrin, Advil), and naproxen (Aleve). Ask your doctor before using NSAIDs. They may interact with other medications or medical conditions. If NSAIDs do not provide sufficient relief, your doctor may prescribe muscle relaxants. Use these as directed. Ask your doctor about injections. If you continue to experience pain in your piriformis area, talk with your doctor about local injections, which can include anesthetics, steroids, or botox. Anesthetic injections, which commonly include lidocaine or bupivacaine injected directly into the trigger point, are successful in approximately 85% of cases in conjunction with physical therapy. If local anesthetics do not relieve your pain, your doctor may recommend an injection of steroids or botulinum toxin type A (botox), both of which have been shown to relieve muscle pain. Consult with your doctor about surgical options. Surgery is considered a last-resort treatment for piriformis syndrome and will not be used until all other options have been exhausted. However, if none of the other treatments relieve your pain, you may wish to consult with your doctor about the possibility of surgical intervention. Surgical decompression of the piriformis muscle is only effective when neurologic deficits are present. The doctor will use electromyography and other tests to determine whether compressive neuropathy surgery, which will release the sciatic nerve, is necessary to relieve your pain. | Consider your sex and age. Evaluate your health. Consider your activities. Monitor the source, type, and intensity of pain. Evaluate your gait. Take note of tingling or numbness. Consider seeing a specialist. Be aware that there is no definitive test for piriformis syndrome. Have your doctor conduct diagnostic tests. Check for sensory changes. Have your doctor examine your muscles. Request a CT scan or an MRI. Talk to your doctor about an electromyography study. Stop doing the activities that cause pain. Get physical therapy. Consider alternative medicine. Consider trigger point therapy. Ask your doctor for a stretching regimen. Use heat and cold therapy. Use NSAID pain relievers. Ask your doctor about injections. Consult with your doctor about surgical options. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Over-a-Crush-on-Your-Best-Friend | How to Get Over a Crush on Your Best Friend | To get over a crush on your best friend, try spending a little time away from them so you can process your emotions. While you're having some space, focus on your hobbies and interests to keep you busy. You can also spend time with your other friends and family to stay connected to other people. If you think it'll help, let your best friend know that you've had romantic feelings for them and you're working through them. Try to be patient, since getting over any crush takes time. You'll get through it! | Tell your friend you have a crush if you need closure. Letting your friend know how you feel might set you free from emotional pressure and pain. You won't have as many questions about how they feel, whether they reciprocate your feeling, or how to read into moments with them. You won't have to deal with "what-ifs" or what could have been because you'll have your closure. Closure is especially important if you want to move on from this crush and feel ready to date other people. Talking to your friend will require vulnerability. This takes courage because you might face disappointment. It's an important communication skill, however, and something you'll need in future relationships. If you don't tell your friend you care for them, they might never know the extent of your feelings. Letting them know can help them understand your friendship and support you, if needed. Reveal how you feel if the friendship has changed. If feelings are left unsaid, you might distance yourself from your friend or act differently around them without noticing. In response, your friend might be unsure what's happened. They might worry that they did something wrong or that you don't care for them anymore. Opening up about your feelings can get rid of miscommunication. Being vulnerable about feelings is important. If you can't express your emotions, you and your friend may not feel connected or safe around each other. Don't tell your friend if they are in a relationship. When your friend is dating another person, it's usually best not to tell them about your feelings. Telling them you like them could bring conflicting emotions into the friendship and introduce distance. Instead, wait until they are out of a relationship or until you do not feel obliged to act on the feelings. Don't tell them immediately after they break up with their significant other. This will come off as callous and unsympathetic. Give them time to heal. Talk about your feelings in-person. If you're nervous, you might be tempted to reveal your feelings over text or online messaging. But having serious conversations happen much better in-person. Being able to see and hear the other person will leave less room for miscommunication. You'll see each other's body language and be able to respond immediately. Try a few deep breathing exercises before you have the conversation to get rid of nerves. Write out your feelings before you tell them, if you feel overwhelmed. This will give you an outlet and help you express your emotions in a healthy way. Let them know how deeply you care about them. Sometimes when people reveal romantic feelings, the recipient may worry that you're only interested in dating them. If they don't reciprocate the feeling, they might wonder if you're still interested in a friendship. Make it clear that you appreciate your relationship with them regardless of their response. How you tell your friend about your crush may determine their reaction. For example, if you tell them that you care about them, they react sympathetically. If you only make it seem like you want to date, they may react defensively. Accept their reaction, no matter what. If they say they reciprocate your feelings, you might feel anxious and unsure what to do next. If they say they don't, you might feel crushed. Their emotions are as valid as yours, and it is important for you to respect them. Don't argue with them or react angrily if their response isn't what you hoped for. Thank them for being honest, and distance yourself if you need time alone. However, even if you need less contact than before, don't ghost your friend and disappear completely. Try remembering how important the friendship was to you before you developed the crush. Hurt, grief, and pain are all part of grieving. Don't suppress your emotions or feel ashamed. It's all part of the healing process. If your feelings cause significant distress and you're unable to move on, you may be dealing with depression. Talk to a psychologist or therapist. Separate fantasy from what actually is. Your crush might linger if you daydream about what could be, but holding onto your fantasies will only lead to more pain. Accept the reality of the situation and your feelings of attraction equally. Gradually avoid thinking about what your relationship would be like if it could only work out. Don't dwell on the past or worry about the future. Instead, ground yourself in the present. Instead of building up a fantasy life, work on yourself. Set goals in your work or hobbies, spend time with loved ones, and work on self-improvement to love the life you have. Appreciate your friendship for what you have. Your friendship with this person can still be meaningful, even if you can't pursue a romantic relationship with them. Think about all the good times you've had with this person and the positive qualities they have. Have gratitude that this person is in your life and that you've had the opportunity to know them. You don't have to stop being friends, but spending time with just this person can cause you to dwell more on your feelings. Spend some time apart for a while. You might need some time away from this person to work through your feelings. Tell your friend that you need space for a while. While you're spending time away from them, focus on other things, like trying a new hobby or meeting new people. Rebuilding a friendship can take weeks or months. You may not feel "over" your crush until you find someone new. Take as much time as you need to process your emotions. Let your friend know why you need space so that they don't feel hurt or confused. Let them know that it isn't their fault and that you still care about them. Set boundaries. If you want to fall out of love with your crush, set boundaries for yourself and your friend to avoid sparking old flames. You might avoid extended physical contact with your friend, stop flirting with them, or steer away from intimate conversations for a while. Share the boundaries with your friend (if you're comfortable) so they know to avoid those situations. For example, you might tell your friend to hold off on the cuddling or hugging, even if they just mean it in a platonic way. On the flip side, you may have to hold yourself back from hugging or holding them. Let them know why you are doing this so they don't feel hurt or abandoned. Allow yourself to feel without restrictions. Don't bottle up your emotions. Trying to repress feelings often leads to more pain. Rather than ignoring the pain, open yourself up to the full spectrum of emotions. Grieve for what could have been. Express gratitude that this friend has been in your life. Think of the good and bad times. Whatever emotions come, accept them. If the emotions are too overwhelming, take a break from thinking about your friend. Relax, recharge, and revisit the situation when you're ready. Talk to other friends or someone you trust. Getting your feelings out can keep you from dwelling on the situation. Third parties can also give you an outside perspective. Sometimes a good cry can be cathartic. If you need to cry, find somewhere you're comfortable and let it out. Practice self-care. In the midst of these strong feelings for your friend, you may neglect taking care of yourself. But practicing self-care in this time will help you regain confidence and maintain supportive relationships as you process your emotions. Do activities that strengthen your physical and emotional well-being, and take care of your personal hygiene. Emotional self-care might include: Reading a book, spending time with a friend, listening to music, getting a massage, or learning something new. Physical self-care might include: Going for a walk, exercising, getting enough sleep, staying hydrated, or scheduling a medical check-up. Let yourself laugh. Humor really can be the best medicine. Comic relief can help you de-stress and keep a light perspective in life. Watch a silly movie, read humorous novels, or visit a local comedy club. At the very least, laughter can distract you when you need time away from your thoughts. Sometimes people use humor as a coping mechanism in hard times. Make sure that you're not using jokes to repress painful feelings. Express your feelings creatively. Getting your feelings out (whether in words, art, or song) will help you collect your thoughts and process all the emotions you might be feeling. You can share your work with others, or you can just keep it for yourself. The important part is expressing yourself fully. If you're not the creative type, start a journal. Seeing your emotions on paper will help you work through them. Regain your confidence. While getting over a crush on your friend, your self-esteem may plummet. You may worry that nobody will ever love you like you wish your friend did. Believing in yourself again can help you cope with the pain and cultivate hope in the future. Write down your strengths on a piece of paper to remember when you're feeling low, and set reachable goals every day to remind yourself that you can do hard things. Low self-esteem can be a sign of depression, which is difficult to cure alone. If you think you may be depressed, tell a loved one or see a counselor. "Date yourself" for a while. Before you get back into the dating scene, spend some time on self-understanding. Get to know yourself on a deeper level: think about your goals in life and what's important to you. Explore your strengths and weaknesses as a human being. Knowing yourself better will help you define what you're seeking in a relationship. Falling in love might cause you to forget yourself. Re-discover who you are apart from your friend and learn to love yourself. Use the old relationship as a guide to figure out what qualities you like about yourself, and where you would like to grow. Take up a new hobby. Getting out and learning something new will give you something else to think about besides your friend. You'll also be able to learn new skills and regain some self-confidence. Join a cooking class, volunteer at a local shelter, buy an instrument to learn, or try out an activity you've always wanted to do. Pick a hobby that requires a lot of time and concentration. You can then use it to escape your mind for a while and focus on something productive. Now is the time to revisit an activity you used to do but for whatever reason let go. Doing something you love again will help you reconnect with your inner self. Spend time with your other friends. Having a crush on your best friend can cause you to neglect other friendships. As you develop meaningful relationships with other friends, you'll gain emotional support outside of your best friend. Invite a friend over to chat, see a movie with them, or even send them a text to let them know you care. Don't distract yourself constantly with friends. Spending time alone is important, too. If you need some space from others for a while, let yourself have that time. Go out with other people, when you're ready. Once you're ready to fall in love again, re-enter the dating scene. You don't have to fall into a serious relationship right away: date a few different people for a while and have fun just getting to know them. Meet new people. Join a club, volunteer somewhere new, chat with a classmate or co-worker, or visit your local bar. Recognize the qualities that you liked in your friend and look for them in others. Understand that you won't find someone exactly like your friend, however. Realize that your friend may not have been the one, and believe that eventually you will meet the right person and realize why things didn't work out with your best friend. Accept that falling out of love takes time. Getting over a crush takes time as your heart heals. In a way, you might always love and care for this person. What matters is moving past the pain and opening yourself up to loving again, even if not for a while. Don't beat yourself up if you're still pining for this person. You can find new love in the future. If you're not careful, you may become bitter from the pain and start to hate your friend. Don't let yourself fill with negative emotions. | Tell your friend you have a crush if you need closure. Reveal how you feel if the friendship has changed. Don't tell your friend if they are in a relationship. Talk about your feelings in-person. Let them know how deeply you care about them. Accept their reaction, no matter what. Separate fantasy from what actually is. Appreciate your friendship for what you have. Spend some time apart for a while. Set boundaries. Allow yourself to feel without restrictions. Practice self-care. Let yourself laugh. Express your feelings creatively. Regain your confidence. "Date yourself" for a while. Take up a new hobby. Spend time with your other friends. Go out with other people, when you're ready. Accept that falling out of love takes time. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Dress-Classy-but-Casual | How to Dress Classy but Casual | Dressing classy but casual is all about combining high-quality clothes for a stylish look. You can look classy with clean jeans and a nice, well-fitting top. Or, pair slacks with a dress shirt for a business casual look. During summer, wear shorts with a loose-fitting t-shirt. When it's colder, try layering a coat on top of a nice-looking sweater. To make your look more classy, find clothes that fit your body type well or get them tailored. Buy clothes in neutral colors, like black, white, brown, khaki, and navy blue, which you can easily match. | Choose clothes that fit your body well. Well-fitting clothing will naturally make you look more stylish and put-together. Make sure that the clothing isn't too tight or loose in certain areas of your body. Knowing your body type can help you pick styles and cuts that fit your body comfortably. If you have clothing that is too large or long in some areas, you can pay a tailor to take it in. Tailored clothing can make your outfit look like it was made for you. Always try clothes on before buying them. If you order your clothing online, make sure to try the outfit on before you wear it out. Buy well-made and high-quality clothing. Well-made clothing will usually fit your body and appear more elegant than cheaply made styles. When you buy the clothing, check for any loose stitches or stains. Well-made clothing often costs more, but you can also shop at thrift stores, vintage stores, and online secondhand fashion sites to find less expensive quality clothing. Select pieces made out of high-quality fabrics. The tag on the clothing will tell you what it is made out of. Choose fabrics that are meant to last, such as cotton, wool, leather, linen, and silk. Avoid synthetic fabrics like polyester or rayon. Look for timeless clothing that won’t fall out of fashion. Classy clothing tends to include styles that last for generations. While you can still wear trendy styles, make sure you have plenty of basics in your wardrobe as well. Some great, classic styles include: Slacks and skirts Collared shirts like polos, oxford shirts, and dress shirts A-line dresses Blazers Jeans Cardigans and pullover sweaters Prints like horizontal stripes, gingham, paisley, plaid, and argyle Choose neutral colors that you can mix and match. Neutrals are colors that go with just about anything. They include black, white, brown, khaki, and navy blue. Neutral colors can help your casual wardrobe appear polished and timeless. They will help you create many different outfits while still remaining laid-back and casual. Go for sweaters and cardigans instead of hoodies and sweatshirts. While hoodies and sweatshirts have their place, they are generally not as classy as a nice pullover or button-up sweater. A nice, well-fitting sweater can dress up any casual clothing. Cardigans are a great option to wear over a-line dresses, a shirt and tie, or a pair of khaki trousers. Pullover sweaters look very classy when worn over a collared shirt. Other classy options for outerwear include leather jackets, crewneck or V-neck sweaters, sweater vests, pea coats, and blazers. Choose dark washes of jeans over light washes. Faded or light wash jeans may appear more worn than dark wash jeans. You can get denim in dark blue, black, or other dark neutral shades. Avoid ripped, deconstructed, or worn clothing. The trick to looking casual and classy is to make sure that your clothing appears clean, unwrinkled, and in good condition. While ripped or deconstructed styles may be trendy, they may not be the classiest option for casual wear. Dress up a pair of jeans with a nice top. Jeans are versatile pieces of clothing. They can be casual or dressy depending on what you pair them with. Wearing a well-fitting pair of jeans with a button-up shirt or printed blouse is perfect for almost any occasion. Great casual shirts to wear with jeans include flannel button-ups, henley shirts, breton tops, and peasant shirts. You can look classy in a t-shirt and jeans as long as the shirt is well-fitting, clean, and unwrinkled. Look for t-shirts with simple designs instead of logos or brands. Put on neutral slacks with a dress shirt for a business casual look. Business casual usually requires a relaxed professional outfit. The go-to outfit is typically a pair of slacks in a neutral color, such as khaki, navy blue, or black. This is worn with a nice dress shirt. If you want, add a cardigan or blazer on top. Examples of a nice dress shirt include collared button-up shirts, crewnecks, ruffled blouses, cashmere sweaters, and vests. Women can also wear skirts or modest dresses. Ties are typically optional for business casual, but they will help add an extra classy edge to your outfit. Alternatively you can try to dress up a shirt that is a little too much on the casual side. Wear modest shorts and a t-shirt for a summer look. If it is hot outside, you can still rock the classy but casual look. Shorts should reach at least your mid-thigh. T-shirts or tank tops, on the other hand, should fit slightly loose without being too low-cut. Colorful shorts are a great way to add a bit of summer flair to your outfit. Try salmon, aqua blue, red, or olive green shorts. Classy shirts that go well with shorts include polos, linen shirts, and v-neck tees. Layer a coat over a well-fitting sweater and shirt when it is cold. Layers keep you warm in the winter. Wear a thin undershirt or long-sleeved shirt. Pull a nice-looking sweater over it. When you go out, make sure you have a heavy coat on top. Nice sweaters to wear casually include crew neck sweaters, v-necks, zip necks, and cowl sweaters. These go well with long-sleeved shirts, flannels, turtlenecks, collared button-ups, or roll neck shirts. If you wear a dress or skirt out, layer a sweater or blazer on top. Wear tights underneath to keep warm. Wear a long coat, such as a trench coat or overcoat, on top. If you wear slacks or pants, choose a shorter coat, such as a peacoat, sports coat, or duffle coat. Pick a nice pair of clean shoes to match the outfit. Shoes can help complete an outfit. Whether you wear sneakers, sandals, or flats, choose a pair that is clean and well-cared for. Some options for classy and casual shoes include canvas sneakers, leather loafers, leather hiking boots, ankle boots, or ballet flats. Generally, you want the color of your shoes to be the same color or a shade darker than your outfit. You can also use shoes to add a pop of color to your outfit. Bright red and yellow shoes work well when paired with neutral colors like navy or black. Brown, navy, black, and white shoes go with almost any outfit. Use scarves, ties, and belts to add pops of color to your outfit. Look for bold prints and colors to spice up your neutral wardrobe. Match your accessories carefully to the outfit that you are wearing to make your classy casual look complete. Wear one piece of statement jewelry at a time. Statement jewelry can appear classy, but too much may be flashy. If you decide to wear statement jewelry, try to only wear 1 piece at any time. For example, if you wear a bold cocktail ring, don't pair it with a blingy necklace, heavy dangling earrings, or a flashy bracelet. Carry a nice purse or satchel with you. A quality and well-constructed purse, briefcase, or satchel can help you carry your belongings while still looking nice. Check out designer bags for well-made, timeless pieces. You can also search online for secondhand designer bags or hunt around for cheaper but still quality pieces at malls. | Choose clothes that fit your body well. Buy well-made and high-quality clothing. Select pieces made out of high-quality fabrics. Look for timeless clothing that won’t fall out of fashion. Choose neutral colors that you can mix and match. Go for sweaters and cardigans instead of hoodies and sweatshirts. Choose dark washes of jeans over light washes. Avoid ripped, deconstructed, or worn clothing. Dress up a pair of jeans with a nice top. Put on neutral slacks with a dress shirt for a business casual look. Wear modest shorts and a t-shirt for a summer look. Layer a coat over a well-fitting sweater and shirt when it is cold. Pick a nice pair of clean shoes to match the outfit. Use scarves, ties, and belts to add pops of color to your outfit. Wear one piece of statement jewelry at a time. Carry a nice purse or satchel with you. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Catch-Halibut | How to Catch Halibut | To catch halibut, fish in the ocean at a depth of around 40-80 feet, which is where halibut like to hang out. If you have sonar, look for spots with valleys or rock formations at the bottom of the ocean since halibut prefer areas that are sheltered from currents. When you're fishing for halibut, use live bait like squid or octopus, or try plastic sardines or anchovies. You should also chum liberally and regularly to help draw nearby halibut to your bait. Try to drop your bait so it's close to the bottom of the water since that's where halibut will be. | Scout your location. Halibut prefer to remain near the bottom of the ocean, usually at depths of around 40–80 feet (12–24 m); rarely will they be found below 120 feet (36.6 m) (36 m). They also prefer to hang out in “hydraulic relief zones” — current-calming obstructions like depressions, valleys, rock formations, and the like at the bottom of the sea. You can utilize sonar and other electronic equipment to map out the depths and contours of the ocean below and identify good fishing spots. It never hurts to pair this with firsthand advice on prime fishing spots from successful halibut anglers, of course. Choose bait that attracts halibut. Experts on catching halibut often advise the use of bait such as live squid or octopus , or mackerel heads or guts. Artificial bait such as plastic fish colored like a sardine or anchovy can also be used in halibut fishing. Add attracting scents to your bait and line as well, and chum liberally and regularly to lure halibut in. Luminescence and movement help draw halibut in, although jerking movements of the bait can have the opposite effect. Choose a strong but lightweight fishing line. The size and strength of halibut mean that they can snap weak or low-quality lines. At the same time, though, lines that are too heavy-duty or offer too much stretch may make the reeling process too difficult. Aim for a low stretch, high quality Kevlar or Spectra line at 80 - 120 pound test strength. Use a light fishing line to prevent you from tiring too quickly when you reel the halibut in. A California halibut can weigh around 50 lbs. (23 kg), while a Pacific halibut can be over 500 lbs. (230 kg). Fish with several other people. It's always nice to have some company while fishing, right? Also, this puts more bait in the water to draw fish. Yes, this also means more competition for your prize, but adding more chum and bait to your fishing area will still improve your odds of catching a halibut. If going halibut fishing alone or with a few people, create your own chum slick to draw fish to your boat. Drop your bait close to the bottom of the sea floor. This is where halibut typically spend their time. Once you hit bottom, reel back a bit so you are just off the floor. Wait for around thirty seconds for a bite before moving the bait again. Raise and lower the bait a few feet (meters) or gently move it from side to side in the water to help attract the fish to your line. Wait for a halibut to take the bait. If, after about a dozen casts, you haven't had a bite, you may want to consider repositioning. Try exploring one of your other target spots. Once you do get a bite, fight your instinct to set the hook by pulling — a powerful halibut is likely to slip free this way. Instead, allow your fishing line to lower back into the water until it goes tight. Set your hook and steadily pull the line up with control. Wind and lower your fishing rod and then pull again, bringing the halibut up close to the water's surface. Take your time and go easy. Halibut will often come to the surface without much resistance if a gentle touch is applied. Keep going until the fish is just below the water's surface. Allow a “spooked” halibut to run free for a bit. Don't try to fight it or pull it closer, or you will likely lose your hook or break your line. Instead, give it some slack and wait for it to calm back down. Then, try slowly but surely bringing it up again. Remember, this magnificent fish is worth the extra time. Keep at least the halibut's head underwater. You need to weaken this powerful fish before bringing it aboard. Flailing halibut have been known to seriously injure unsuspecting anglers. Make sure your prize is unable to put up resistance before putting it on your boat. Use a gaff or harpoon to wound the fish. Aim for the solid area just behind the head, and drive the gaff or harpoon straight through. Wait for the fish to grow tired and lose some blood. Some people use guns to wound halibut. However, this is illegal in some areas; you risk ruining some of the best meat on the fish (the cheeks); and it's simply a more dangerous practice than is necessary. Raise the wounded halibut alongside the boat. Tie it up (“hog tie” style) and cut its gill rakers with a knife. Bleeding the fish further will kill it and provide cleaner meat later. Stay on your guard until you know the fish is dead — even when it's on death's door, a halibut can still injure you. Put the dead halibut on ice as soon as possible. Prepare the fish for eating or storage by filleting it. This works better for halibut meat than trying to cut it into steaks. Remove the skin for short-term storage, as it can affect the flavor of the meat. However, if you intend to freeze the fillets for longer than a couple months, you may want to keep the skin on and rinse the meat down with salted water. Then vacuum seal it and freeze it. | Scout your location. Choose bait that attracts halibut. Choose a strong but lightweight fishing line. Fish with several other people. Drop your bait close to the bottom of the sea floor. Wait for a halibut to take the bait. Set your hook and steadily pull the line up with control. Allow a “spooked” halibut to run free for a bit. Keep at least the halibut's head underwater. Raise the wounded halibut alongside the boat. Prepare the fish for eating or storage by filleting it. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Glaze-for-Ham | How to Make Glaze for Ham | To make maple glaze for ham, start by whisking together maple syrup, brown sugar, and black pepper. Then, brush the glaze on the ham halfway through the overall cooking time. Alternatively, for a sugar glaze, stir together brown sugar, mustard, and apple cider vinegar, and brush it over the ham every 15 minutes during the final 60 minutes of cooking. | Whisk the ingredients together. Combine the maple syrup, brown sugar, and black pepper in a small mixing bowl, whisking well until evenly combined. If you'd prefer glaze with a little more kick, add 1/4 tsp (1.25 ml) of cayenne pepper to the glaze alongside the black pepper. This glaze will already be quite thick at room temperature, so you do not need to cook it on the stove. Add to the ham halfway through cooking. Bake the ham as directed, and brush the entire batch of glaze over the surface of the ham halfway through the overall cooking time. If the glaze has been sitting out for a while, quickly whisk it again before applying it to the ham. For most hams, you'll need to cook the ham for 15 to 20 minutes per 1 lb (450 g) of meat at 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius). If you're cooking an 8-lb (3.6-kg) ham, this means you'll need to cook it between 2 to 2-1/2 hours; add this glaze after the first 60 to 90 minutes. Combine the three ingredients. Whisk the brown sugar and prepared mustard together with 1 Tbsp (15 ml) of apple cider vinegar. If the glaze seems chunky or won't hold together, add another 1 Tbsp (15 ml) of apple cider vinegar and continue whisking. The final glaze should form a thick, consistent paste. Note that you do not need to heat this glaze prior to using it. You may need to periodically remix it, however, if it sits out for more than a few minutes before use. Glaze the ham continuously during the last hour. Brush this glaze over the ham once the ham only has an estimated 60 minutes left in cooking time. Reapply the glaze every 15 minutes until the ham is finished. Whisk the remaining glaze immediately before each reapplication. Ideally, you should apply this glaze to the ham a total of four times. Do not re-glaze the ham after it finishes cooking. Combine both ingredients. Place the brown sugar in a small mixing bowl and pour the cola beverage over it. Lightly whisk the two ingredients together until evenly combined. This glaze should be thick enough to use without thickening it over heat. Make this glaze immediately before you intend to use it and only whisk it together well enough to combine the ingredients. The carbonation will eventually flatten after you add the glaze to the ham, but you should try to retain some of it prior to application. Glaze the ham during the final 30 to 45 minutes. Cook the ham as usual, then pour or brush this glaze evenly over the surface of the ham during the final 30 to 45 minutes of anticipated cooking time. This glaze can burn easily, so it's important to avoid applying it too early in the cooking process. Boil the ingredients together. Combine an 8-oz (225-g) can of crushed pineapple and its juice with the apricot preserved and freshly minced ginger in a saucepan. Cook over medium-high heat, whisking occasionally, until the glaze reaches a boil. Boiling this glaze is important since it causes the sugars in the apricot preserves to break down and mix into the rest of the ingredients, creating a thick and consistently blended product. Since you need to boil and cool this glaze, it's best to prepare it before you start cooking the ham. You can prepare it up to five days in advance. Blend until smooth. Transfer the contents of the saucepan to a blender. Process on medium speed until a smooth glaze forms. This step is technically optional. If you'd prefer a glaze with chunks of pineapple in it, you can skip the blending process and move directly into the next step. Cool to room temperature. Allow the glaze to sit out at room temperature until it cools down. If you don't plan to use the glaze immediately after cooling it, transfer it to an airtight container and store it in your refrigerator for up to five days. Use near the end of the cooking time. Bake the ham as usual, and brush this glaze over the surface of the ham once the ham only has an estimated 30 to 40 minutes left of bake time. Quickly stir the glaze again before you apply it. This glaze may burn if you apply it too early, so it's best to use it near the end of the cooking time. Whisk the ingredients together. Combine the hoisin sauce, honey, five-spice powder, minced garlic, and grated ginger in a small mixing bowl. Whisk together until evenly mixed. This sauce does not need to be thickened with heat. If you'd rather not use freshly minced garlic or freshly grated ginger, you can use their powdered forms instead. Use only 1/8 tsp (0.6 ml) of each when opting for the ground and dried versions. Brush the glaze over the ham before and during baking. Lightly brush this glaze over the ham immediately before baking it. Once the ham is halfway through its anticipated cooking time, apply the remainder of the glaze and continue baking the ham. Note that you may need to quickly whisk the glaze together again prior to each application. The exact times will vary depending on the weight of the ham. You'll usually need to bake ham for 15 to 20 minutes per 1 lb (450 g) at a temperature of 325 degrees Fahrenheit (163 degrees Celsius). For an 8-lb (3.6-kg) ham, you'll need to cook it for about 1 hour before reapplying the second coat; cook it for another 60 to 90 minutes after that. | Whisk the ingredients together. Add to the ham halfway through cooking. Combine the three ingredients. Glaze the ham continuously during the last hour. Combine both ingredients. Glaze the ham during the final 30 to 45 minutes. Boil the ingredients together. Blend until smooth. Cool to room temperature. Use near the end of the cooking time. Whisk the ingredients together. Brush the glaze over the ham before and during baking. |
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