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https://www.wikihow.com/Go-from-Dating-to-Being-Friends-Again
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How to Go from Dating to Being Friends Again
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The end of a relationship can trigger strong emotions, so it's important for you to keep them in check and set clear boundaries if you want to stay friends with someone you've dated. Give each other some space for a few weeks or months after the break-up, which will help you both come to terms with your feelings. Replace any thoughts you used to have about a romantic future with them with thoughts about how you can support each other as friends. For example, you may find it far easier to accept that they have a different lifestyle to you when you're just friends than you would in a relationship. You also need to clearly communicate what your boundaries are to avoid any awkwardness. These could include not talking about your current dates or only hanging out in public. Remember to respect your ex's boundaries too, since a friendship will only work if you treat each other well.
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Agree to give each other space at first. For the first weeks or months after a breakup, space is key. If you try to jump straight into friendship, this is likely to backfire as you'll both be too emotional. Agree to a set period of time to cease or minimize contact so feelings of attraction, romance, and resentment can fade. How much time you give is subjective. Some people may be ready for friendship in a few weeks, while others may need a few months. How much time you spent in the relationship will have an effect; longer relationships typically require longer periods of limited contact. Wait until there's no unfinished business to pursue a friendship. The reason it can be difficult to stay friends with an ex is that people feel the relationship is not finished. If you find yourself feeling you have more to say, or still need closure, it's not the right time to be friends. Wait until you feel at peace with the breakup to pursue a friendship. If you need to talk about a few more things before you can be friends, have a discussion with your ex about any loose ends a few weeks after you break up. Be sure to tie up practical loose ends. If you shared belongings or lived together, wait until your lives are completely separate before pursuing a friendship. Recognize your feelings. Boundaries are important to any relationship, especially complicated ones. Recognizing your own feelings and limitations is key to establishing firm boundaries with an ex. Spend some time thinking over how your ex makes you feel and what kind of contact you're comfortable with. Ask yourself what kind of contact makes you feel bad. Maybe you don't like discussing your ex's new relationships. Maybe you don't like that your ex still calls you by your pet name. It's always okay to request someone stop or tone down behaviors that bother you. Talk openly about boundaries. Find a good time and place to have a calm, sit down talk about your boundaries in regards to a friendship. Let your ex know directly what kind of contact is still appropriate and let them share their feelings as well. State your boundaries outright so there's no ambiguity. For example: "I'll eventually be fine with hearing about your romantic life, but I really need space from that right now. Let's not talk about dating together." Care for yourself. Setting boundaries after a breakup can hurt, even if it's for the best. Recognizing contact will be more minimal and that certain topics are off limits can sting. After setting boundaries, do something nice for yourself. Go for a walk, watch a movie, or make plans with friends. Doing something nice for yourself may take your mind off of the break up and help you distance yourself from the subject. In turn, this may help you recover sooner. Let go of the hopes you have for a relationship. Remind yourself the relationship is over. One of the major downsides of staying friends with an ex is that it can sometimes keep the hope of a relationship alive. Remember, you are exes for a reason and you need to let go of any dreams you had for the relationship. If you find yourself fantasizing about your future together, stop. Think to yourself, "We're not together anymore, and that isn't going to happen." Replace your hopes for a romantic relationship with hopes for a friendship. Think about how you can support each other as friends instead of as romantic partners. Embrace your differences. Fundamentally different world views or different lifestyles can cause a breakup. Now that you're just friends, you can appreciate these differences more. Now you're free to embrace the positives of having a friend who's different from you instead of worrying about your romantic compatibility. For example, a friend who likes to sleep with the fan on probably won't affect a friendship, but it could affect a romantic relationship, especially if you live together. Call it off if you're feeling bad. It's okay to take a step back sometimes. Stay aware of your feelings as you pursue a friendship. If things feel strained and you feel sad or drained when hanging out, it's okay to slow things down. Be open about this. Say something like, "Hey, I'm still feeling a little sad when we hang out. Let's stick to long distance communication for another week or two." Respect your ex's feelings. If they're struggling with the idea of staying friends, respect any requests they make for space. Manage feelings of lingering attraction. It's normal to still feel attracted to someone after a breakup, but don't try to feed into these feelings. It's hard to stay just friends if you're still having sex or being physically intimate. Some exes are able to maintain a physical relationship, or be friends with benefits, after a period of time. However, it's often a bad idea to pursue lingering attraction in the direct aftermath of a relationship. If you decide to get physical again in the future, have a very clear talk about what this means for your relationship. Stay respectful of one another. Boundaries are key to any friendship and are often more important with delicate relationships. You and your ex need to stay respectful of each other's boundaries over time. Make sure you're not breaking any rules in regards to contact, and let your ex know what you need from them. Boundaries change over time, so let your ex know right away if you're more or less comfortable with something. For example, say something like, "I know I didn't want to discuss your dating life at first, but I feel more comfortable with that now. I'd be fine if you wanted to talk about it." Get family members and friends on board. It's easier to be friends with an ex if your own friends and family are on board, especially mutual friends. Let people know that the two of you are still friends and it's okay to invite you to the same events. Make sure people know there is no need to feel weird or uncomfortable when you and your ex are in the same room. Be open about boundaries with friends and family members. For example, say something like, "I'm okay being friends with my ex, but I'm not ready to meet their new partner. I'd appreciate not being invited to events their partner is attending." Make sure new partners are comfortable with the friendship. A new romantic relationship can complicate your relationship with your ex. Let your partner know that you and your ex used to date. Make sure your partner understands the relationship is over and the two of you are just friends now. Your partner may sometimes need extra reassurance or comfort after you hang out with your ex, so make sure to give them that as needed. End the friendship if you're unable to manage your emotions. If you find the relationship is not working, it's okay to walk away. You may find you and your ex argue when you get together. You may be the one putting in all the effort while your ex is ignoring you. If the relationship is simply draining, it's okay to let it go. Not everyone can stay friends with their ex.
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Agree to give each other space at first. Wait until there's no unfinished business to pursue a friendship. Recognize your feelings. Talk openly about boundaries. Care for yourself. Let go of the hopes you have for a relationship. Embrace your differences. Call it off if you're feeling bad. Manage feelings of lingering attraction. Stay respectful of one another. Get family members and friends on board. Make sure new partners are comfortable with the friendship. End the friendship if you're unable to manage your emotions.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Analyze-a-Primary-Source
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How to Analyze a Primary Source
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To analyze a primary source, read the introductory information and the source carefully, and then write a general summary of what the source is saying. If it's a longer text, write a 5-10 word summary at the end of every paragraph or page to annotate the source. Then, come up with a list of questions that you have about the source, and try to find answers in the text. Connect the source to other knowledge that you have about the topic, such as information from lectures, books and movies, and draw your own conclusions and opinions about the document.
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Read any introductory material that accompanies the document. If you have found a primary source in an archive or online, there may be a short summary of the document set. If you are reading a primary source that your teacher or professor gave you, there may be a paragraph of introductory material. If there is no introductory material at all, pay close attention to the title, author, and date. For example, if your textbook contains a diary entry from a Southern slaveholder written in 1840, perhaps the introductory material tells you how many slaves he held or where his plantation was. Summarize. Primary sources are often very dense, and many are full of jargon. Sometimes, especially if you are working with an older document, you will run into words and phrases that are unfamiliar to you. Summarizing as you read will help you keep track of what the document is saying. Jot down a short 5-10 word summary at the end of every paragraph or at least every section (if it's a longer text). Maybe the slaveholder's diary begins with a paragraph all about the crops he is planning to plant this year. Your summary could simply say, “Crops = tobacco, wheat, corn.” Bullet points, keywords, and lists are a great way to do this. Re-copying lengthy text directly into the margins is probably not that helpful. Consider a quick sketch in lieu of a written summary. It doesn't have to be anything fancy. Venn diagrams, charts, stick figures, etc. are great. Ask questions. If something doesn't make sense, write down your question about it. If an element of the text leaves you wanting to know more, write down your question about it. If you come to a section in the slaveholder's diary about one of his slaves falling ill, you might write, “Who is in charge of health on this plantation? Slaves? Or the wife of the slaveholder?” Make connections. It's important to put the document in the context of other things you know. You can try to make connections to other texts, lectures (especially if you're analyzing the source for a class), your own life, or current events. Perhaps you saw the movie, Twelve Years a Slave. The slaveholder's diary reminds you of a scene from the movie. Jot down the title of the movie and perhaps a short description of the scene. Make inferences. Texts always have implied meanings. Read “between the lines” and write down your speculations and conclusions. If the slaveholder's diary included a paragraph about his son and daughter, and how he worries about his daughter finding a husband but is happy that he will be able to provide for his son, you might infer that his son will inherit the plantation. In the margins, make a note of your inference: “Son will probably inherit from father.” Write down anything else you thought of while reading the document. Remember that there is really no wrong way to annotate. The idea is to get all of your thoughts and questions about a document down on paper. Write down any immediately apparent biases you see. Biases are prejudices for or against people or things. Every primary source has an element of bias to it. Literally no source ever created has NO bias. If the author is making sweeping generalizations about a group of people, you should note that they appear to have a bias for or against this group. If you don't notice any biases immediately, move on. They may be tricky to find at first. For example, if the slaveholder notes in his diary that “all African slaves” look, feel, or behave a certain way, you should note the racial bias in the source. Then you should look carefully for other elements of racial bias. Finding bias doesn't mean that you will need to throw out the source and not use it. Instead, it means that you will need to think critically about what this source tells you about its creator. Compare the primary source to secondary sources. Think about what you have read textbooks or heard in lectures on topics related to your primary source. Ask yourself, “What, if anything, seems untrue/unlikely/unclear/unbelievable about this source?” and “How does this compare with what I know from other sources? Does it support those sources or contradict them?” Perhaps an entry in the slaveholder's diary mentions that all of his slaves are in good health are rarely ever ill. Check your textbook and lecture notes to learn about the healthcare provided to slaves on antebellum plantations. Does his entry seem accurate? Could he be an exception to the rule, or does he have some reason to write untrue statements? Think about who the author is. Consider their gender, race, class, career, location, etc. Do any of these factors make you feel skeptical about the trustworthiness of the source? For example, a white Southern slaveholder writing about his slaves in 1840 was likely writing with some element of racism and racial bias. As an elite male, he would also have a class and gender bias. Keep these biases in mind as you read. Even if you determine that what the slaveholder says about his slaves is not reliable information, you can still learn about the slaveholder himself based on what he writes. Consider the author’s purpose and intended audience. Especially think about their motives and whether that might have influenced what they wrote. Maybe you learned in class that, in the 1800s, diaries had a different purpose than they do today. Rather than a record of private thoughts, they were written for public consumption after the death of the author. With that in mind, you might consider that the slaveholder wanted to paint a rosy picture in his diary. Ask yourself Who created the source and why? Was it created through a spur-of-the-moment act, a routine transaction, or a thoughtful, deliberate process? Does the creator of the source speak for a larger group of people or just for themself? Did the creator wish to inform or persuade others? (Look closely the words in the source. The word choices may tell you whether the creator was trying to be objective or persuasive.) Did the creator have reasons to be honest or dishonest? Was the source meant to be public or private? Consider when the source was written. Sometimes, if a primary source was created even a little while after an event occurred, a person looking back on the event will have a different perspective than they would have had they created a source during an event. An entry in a slaveholder's diary about what he did yesterday is likely to be more factually accurate than an entry reminiscing about his childhood. Analyze the overall reliability. Remember that even if you determine that an author probably had reason to be untruthful, the source may still be useful. For example, though you may not learn true facts about the lives of Southern slaves by reading an 1840 diary of a slaveholder, you can learn about racial biases (of white slaveholders) in 1840. Think about how a scholar might use this source. What kind of research/topics would it be helpful for? What might a scholar have to be careful about if they were using this source? A slaveholder's diary would be very useful to someone writing about the ideas and ideals of 19th century Southern gentry. It might even be useful to someone tracing the history of slavewomen's participation in plantation healthcare, but a person studying that topic would have to be very careful to note and account for the slaveholder's biases. Write or speak about the source. Whether you were analyzing a primary source for a class discussion, an essay, or for your own personal use, you can use what you learned about the reliability of the source to write or speak about it in a more informed way. As you write or speak, note the possible biases and discuss how the source may still be useful. You might write, ”Though some Southern slaveholders claimed that their workforce was always in good health, diary entries from some plantation owners indicate that contagious diseases frequently ran rampant through slave quarters.”
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Read any introductory material that accompanies the document. Summarize. Ask questions. Make connections. Make inferences. Write down anything else you thought of while reading the document. Write down any immediately apparent biases you see. Compare the primary source to secondary sources. Think about who the author is. Consider the author’s purpose and intended audience. Consider when the source was written. Analyze the overall reliability. Think about how a scholar might use this source. Write or speak about the source.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Your-Feet-Warm
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How to Keep Your Feet Warm
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The easiest way to warm up your feet is to put on thick, warm socks. You can also wear insulated slippers over the socks for extra warmth. If your socks get wet, or if your feet have been sweating, change into a pair of dry socks. Exercise or a foot massage may also help you improve the circulation in your feet, which can make them feel warmer. If your feet are still cold, you can soak your feet in a warm bath, or wrap your feet in a warm rice bag. Do not try these methods, however, if you have diabetes, as you may burn your feet without realizing it.
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Choose warm, thick wool socks. Wear socks that are at least 70% wool – these are the best for keeping your feet warm. Rub your feet together after you put your socks on to stir up some warmth. You can also buy thermal, fur-lined, Alpaca, and sheepskin or shearling socks for extra insulation. Wear insulated slippers. Adding slippers over your socks will definitely help keep your feet warm. Indulge in purchasing some wool-lined or fur-lined slippers. These can be both warming and comfortable! Keep your shoes on in the house. Unless you have a no-shoe rule in your house, keep your shoes on over your socks until you go to bed. Wear clean boots inside, if you own some. These will insulate your feet and ankles and help conserve warmth. You can also try wearing your insulated boots while sleeping in a tent. Change your socks if they're wet. If you have been wearing socks all day and your feet get sweaty, the sweat in your socks could be dampening your feet and making them cool. Slip into a warm, dry pair and your feet will instantly feel warmer. This is important whether you're at home or hiking in nature. Always take extra socks with you when traveling or hiking, so you have dry pairs to change into. Warm up your core. It's really hard to warm up your feet if the rest of your body is cold. Wrap yourself in a blanket, put on an extra sweater, or soak in a hot bath. Once you warm up your center, you'll be better able to warm your feet. Put on a hat. It may sound silly to wear a hat to try to warm up your feet, but it can help! You lose a lot of heat from your head, and the colder your body is the colder your feet will be. Slip on a cozy hat to save body heat and encourage warmer feet. Warm your socks in the dryer. Pop some socks in the dryer for up to 10 minutes before wearing them. They will be toasty warm when they come out! Don't put your socks in the microwave or oven – this could start a fire. If you don't have a dryer, try ironing your socks to warm them up. Put your feet in warm water. If possible, take a hot shower or soak in a hot bath – this will warm up your whole body including your feet. If that's not an option, warm your feet in hot water in a big bowl or a foot bath. Soak them for as long as you'd like, just keep adding hot water so it doesn't cool down. Invest in an electric blanket for your bed. You can find an electric blanket at many large-scale retail outlets, and at some drug stores. Purchase one to use on your bed or couch, and wrap your feet up in it. However, be sure to unplug it when it's not in use. Heat up a rice bag and wrap it around your feet. Purchase a heatable rice bag, or make your own. When you're cold, microwave your rice bag for 1 ½ - 2 ½ minutes. Drape it over your feet. How long you should heat your rice bag varies by microwave, so always carefully test the temperature. Use a hot water bottle. Put a heated water bottle under or on top of your feet to warm them up quickly. Take it off after a while when it starts to cool down. Make sure the hot water bottle has a cover, and that it is not too hot – if it's uncomfortable, let it cool for a few minutes and try again. Wear socks; don't put the water bottle straight onto your skin. Stick a thermal insole in your shoe. Purchase a pack of thermal insoles or heating packets (“hand warmers”) from your local pharmacy or drug store. Read the instructions carefully so you know how to use them. When your feet are cold, activate one and stick it inside your sock. If the instructions say not to put it in direct contact with your skin, use it between your sock and shoe or between two layers of socks. Make your own foot warmer. Fold a bed pillow in half, and pin the corners with safety pins to make a pocket. Add a heat source by filling several sturdy plastic 8 oz. bottles with hot water. Test it with your hand to make sure it's not too hot, then put the water bottles into your homemade pocket. Slide your feet in and feel the heat. Screw the caps on the bottles tightly so they don't leak. Cocoon your feet while you sleep. When you are in bed, wrap your feet in a blanket and make sure that it is tucked all way round your feet to keep them warm. This will insulate your feet better than just draping a blanket over them. Zip your sleeping bag all the way up so that your feet are cocooned in the bottom of the bag. Keep your feet off the floor. You lose a lot of heat through the soles of your feet on cold floors. When possible, keep your feet up on a couch or on a foot stool. Keep extra footwear handy. Even if your home and workplace are dry and warm, you can get cold, wet feet when traveling between the two. Keep an extra pair of socks and shoes at work to switch into in case your feet get wet on the way. Consider keeping “professional” shoes at the office and wearing insulated boots back and forth between work and home. If your office or workplace is cold, you can also find professional shoes with higher sides or thin layers of insulation to help keep yourself warm at work. Wearing wool socks with your standard professional shoe would be another option. Warm the room you're in. If your body is covered up and your feet are still cold, it may just be that the room is too cold. Make sure all the windows are closed, put on central heating or light a fire, or buy a draught (draft) excluder if you think the coldness is coming from underneath your doors. Move and exercise your feet. If you have been sitting still for a while, move around or exercise your feet to warm them up. Stand on your tiptoes and then the flats of your feet or stretch your feet out and point your toes, then bring your feet back in and bend your toes. Repeat these till your feet feel tingly and warm. Get up and walk around. The movement will circulate the blood in your body and warm them up. You can even do jumping jacks or run in place to really get your blood pumping. Do 30-50 leg swings. Sit down on a chair or the edge of your bed, with your legs dangling. Swing your legs backward and forward at least 30-50 times. This will get your blood flowing to your feet more. Do this with your whole leg, including your thigh. Make powerful movements! Swing your leg as wide as possible. Give yourself a foot massage. Rub some foot cream or lotion onto your bare feet and massage it in. Rub your toes, heels, and the soles of your feet. This helps circulation and makes your feet feel warmer. Then, put on some thick socks or shoes and slippers to keep the heat in. Use a warming cream like Nutrasal or ProNeema for an extra warming boost.
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Choose warm, thick wool socks. Wear insulated slippers. Keep your shoes on in the house. Change your socks if they're wet. Warm up your core. Put on a hat. Warm your socks in the dryer. Put your feet in warm water. Invest in an electric blanket for your bed. Heat up a rice bag and wrap it around your feet. Use a hot water bottle. Stick a thermal insole in your shoe. Make your own foot warmer. Cocoon your feet while you sleep. Keep your feet off the floor. Keep extra footwear handy. Warm the room you're in. Move and exercise your feet. Do 30-50 leg swings. Give yourself a foot massage.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Music-Know-It-All
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How to Be a Music Know It All
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To be a music know it all, try to listen to a new genre of music every day so you're always discovering new kinds of music. If you find a particular genre that you like, try exploring the related sub-genres and micro-genres and reading up on the history of that type of music. You should also follow a few music blogs, like Pitchfork and The Fader, so you can read reviews and news about popular music in the industry.
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Explore genres you don’t usually listen to. There are countless types of music, each with a definite sound that can be categorized into genre. Try listening to music from a new genre every day. You can learn something new from each individual type of music, so don't limit yourself to listening only to the music you already know you love. Satellite radio, such as SiriusFM, is a great way to explore different genres with little work. There are stations for almost every type of genre. Simply flip through the stations to get exposure to a variety of music. Check out a comprehensive list of all possible genres at http://www.musicgenreslist.com. A detailed blog that focuses specifically on trending genres and genre news can be found here: http://www.musicgenreslist.com/music-genres-blog/ Learn about different sub-genres and micro-genres. Sub-genres and micro-genres are specialty, niche genres that are narrower than the bigger, more popular genres. Explore different sub-genres and micro-genres to deepen your knowledge of more obscure types of music. Some examples of sub-genres are Straight-Edge punk, Indie R&B, and Latin Pop. Some examples of micro-genres are Jazzrap, Electropunk, and Metalcore. A great, comprehensive list of genres, sub-genres, and micro-genres can be found at http://everynoise.com/. Listen to music that’s currently trending. Music billboards rank songs and artists based on popularity, and there are billboards for every type of music. Keep an eye on the billboard rankings and listen to songs you haven't heard before. This is a great way to stay up-to-date on trends in the music world. A great site to view the current billboard rankings is https://www.billboard.com/charts. Read up on the history of genres, sub-genres, and micro-genres. This will give you a deeper understanding of where the music you love originated. Knowing this history of the music you love is important if you want to truly consider yourself a music know-it-all. A great site that breaks down the history by year and genre is https://musicmap.info/ Sign up for a membership to an online digital music service. Online digital music services are one of the best resources for experiencing music you've never heard before. Most of these services personalize the music they play based upon the songs and artists you currently listen to, so it's a great way to get introduced to new musicians in the genre you like. Spotify and Pandora are 2 of the most popular personalized radio services on the web. They are both free to use if you are willing to listen to advertisements. Ad-free subscriptions are cheap, and are a great investment for serious music-goers. Install popular music apps on your mobile device. While you can listen to your digital music service on the computer, many music lovers prefer to listen on their mobile phones. Pandora and Spotify both offer mobile apps that you can install directly onto your mobile phone for easier convenience. Shazam is a great mobile app that will tell you the name, artist, and album of a song. The app will automatically recognize the tune and identify it for you. Use this app when you hear a song on the radio and want to know what it's called or who it's by. Use an online composition site to learn how to make your own music. The benefits of learning how to compose music is an introduction to scales, musical terminology, and other technical aspects underlying the music industry. There are countless websites nowadays that will walk you through the basic technicalities of reading and composing music. A few examples are: https://learningmusic.ableton.com/ https://www.lightnote.co/ https://www.khanacademy.org/humanities/music/ Follow 3-4 music blogs focused on different types of music. Well-written music blogs offer their readers a wealth of information, including album and concert reviews, latest news in the music industry, and recommendations for songs and artists that may be trending. Some popular music blogs: https://www.pitchfork.com/ https://www.consequenceofsound.net/ https://www.allmusic.com/blog http://www.thefader.com/music Join a few online music fan communities. Joining an online fan community will allow you to meet others who are just as passionate about the industry as you are, and to exchange recommendations, reviews, and knowledge with one another. Music fandom is essentially a social activity, and there are countless online communities made up of music fans from all across the world. Some popular online fan communities are: http://www.reddit.com/ https://boards.vinylcollective.com/ http://board.okayplayer.com/okp.php http://www.drownedinsound.com/community/boards/music https://www.musesongwriters.com/forums/ This is a great way to expand your circle of friends if you're anxious about meeting people in person, as you can ask questions and reach out to people without worrying about repercussions. Explore other popular music websites. Bandcamp and Soundcloud are great websites for learning more about indie or more obscure artists. Radio Djs of all genres post their sets on Mixcloud, which you can search by genre tags. Countless other websites offer similar exposure to artists, playlists, and trending music, so take some time to explore them. Bandcamp is located at https://www.bandcamp.com/ Mixcloud is located at http://www.mixcloud.com/ Soundcloud is located at https://soundcloud.com/ Go to local clubs or bars that have live music. Many communities have magazines or newspapers that list when and to find live music venues. Pick one up and schedule an outing to a band you've never heard or a venue you've never visited. Going to local live music events surrounds you with others who are just as passionate about music as you. Go out of your way to yourself to some of the music-goers at these events. Chances are they will give you suggestions on the best spots to listen to music. Watching music live is completely different from listening to recorded music, because you get to see and feel the vibes of the musicians as they play. Attend concerts of popular artists who are visiting your area. Listen to radio stations or your local news channel to hear about popular artists who are coming to your city. If you hear that an artist you love is coming to town, invest in a ticket to see them play. You may not get the opportunity in the future, and watching an artist perform live is completely different than listening to their recordings. Tickets can range from cheap to expensive, but are usually cheaper if you buy them early. Sign up for music lessons at a local music school. Whether you want to learn to play an instrument or perfect your signing technique , many local colleges and music schools offer lessons for beginners. Check online for places in your community that offer music lessons, and call them to see if they offer what you're looking for. If you would prefer to learn music one-on-one, look into private lessons from independent music teachers. Visit record stores and ask for suggestions on what to listen to. Good record-store clerks love it when people ask for suggestions on new music worth listening to. Don't be afraid to ask a lot of questions. They will probably be happy to share their knowledge, and this is the only way you'll learn!
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Explore genres you don’t usually listen to. Learn about different sub-genres and micro-genres. Listen to music that’s currently trending. Read up on the history of genres, sub-genres, and micro-genres. Sign up for a membership to an online digital music service. Install popular music apps on your mobile device. Use an online composition site to learn how to make your own music. Follow 3-4 music blogs focused on different types of music. Join a few online music fan communities. Explore other popular music websites. Go to local clubs or bars that have live music. Attend concerts of popular artists who are visiting your area. Sign up for music lessons at a local music school. Visit record stores and ask for suggestions on what to listen to.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Obtain-a-Copy-of-Your-Birth-Certificate-in-Virginia
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How to Obtain a Copy of Your Birth Certificate in Virginia
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To obtain a copy of your birth certificate in Virginia, you'll need to fill out an application form and send it to the Office of Vital Records. First, download the application from their website and fill in your personal details. Once you've filled in the form, mail it to the address provided, including a copy of your ID and a check for the processing fee. Alternatively, take your form into the Office of Vital Records in Richmond. If you're going in person, make sure you remember to bring a valid form of ID. You can also order a copy of your birth certificate through the VitalChek website or by calling them. However, because VitalChek is a third-party company, they charge an extra fee.
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Learn about the office of Vital Records. The Virginia Office of Vital Records is a division of the Virginia Department of Health. For most routes to receive your birth certificate, you will go through the office of vital records. The office provides Virginia birth and death certificates from 1912 to the present. The office is very busy, so be prepared for waiting times when making phone calls or visiting during office hours. They receive an average of 30,000 calls a month and 9,000 visitors. The office is located 2001 Maywill Street, Richmond, Virginia 23230. The phone number is 804-662-6200. Know who can obtain a copy of a birth certificate. Only specific people have access to birth certificates, as they contain confidential material. When requesting a copy of your own birth certificate you must be over 18, an emancipated minor, a parent under 18 if requesting your child's birth certificate at the same time, or a married juvenile. When requesting for an immediate family member, you must be a current spouse, adult child, mother, father, adult brother, adult sister, maternal grandparents (if mother is listed on the birth certificate), or paternal grandparents (if father is listed on the birth certificate). When requesting as a legal representative, you must have original Notarized Power of Attorney over the person named on the certificate or be the attorney or agent of the person named on the certificate. Know about the DMV option. If you don't live near the Office of Vital Records, there's an alternative route to get a copy of your birth certificate. Certified copies of birth certificates from 1912 to present are available through the Department of Motor Vehicles. Full service DMV locations, which include DMV customer service stations and DMV 2 go mobile offices, issue copies of birth certificates. Complete an application. Whether you're requesting a birth certificate by mail or planning a walk-in, you first need to complete an application. The application PDF can be found on the website for the Office of Vital Records. The application will ask for your name, address, phone number, city, state, and zip code. It will ask for you relation to the person named on the certificate and your reason for requesting the certificate. It will ask for the full name of the person on the certificate, their date of birth, their place of birth, their hospital of birth, and the names of their mother and father. It will ask what type of certificate you want, and the number of copies. You will be asked for a signature. Bring or make a copy of a valid form of ID. In order to obtain a copy of your birth certificate, you either need to show a worker at the Office of Vital Records a valid form of ID or mail in a photo copy with your application. The following are acceptable forms of ID in Virginia: Photo driver's license, learner's permit, or photo identification card issued by the DMV School or employer issued photo identification card Military card, active or retired US passport or foreign passport with visa US certificate of naturalization or citizenship US citizen identification card Temporary resident card Employment Authorization Card Refugee Travel Document Foreign Alien Card Permanent Resident Card Northern Marianas Card A copy of the first and last page of an application for Asylum Birth Abroad (Consular Report) of a citizen from the USA Birth Abroad (Certification Report) of a citizen of the USA Virginia Criminal Justice Agency Offender Information United State Probation Offender Information Walk in. To walk in to receive your birth certificate, go to 2001 Maywill Street, Richmond, Virginia 23230. You will be asked to fill out an application, if you haven't already. You will be asked to show the processing clerk your form of ID. There is a $12 fee, which can be paid by cash, check, or money order. No debit or credit cards are accepted. This is a same day service, meaning you will receive your birth certificate before you leave. Mail in the application. If getting to the office is inconvenient for you, you can simply mail in your application. Mail your application to P.O. Box 1000, Richmond, Virginia 23218-1000. You must include a signed application, a photocopy of a valid form of ID, and a signed letter giving your return address. Include a check or money order, made out to the State Health Department, for $12. If you're requesting a birth certificate with no changes made, expect delivery in 2 to 4 weeks. If you've requested any amendments or changes, the wait can be up to 12 weeks. Know the benefits and drawbacks of VitalChek. VitalChek is a network contracted by the Virginia Health Department that issues birth and death certificates for people living in the state of Virginia. The main advantage of VitalChek is its speed and convenience. It takes 10 minutes to complete an application, which you complete from home, and you should receive your birth certificate within 2 to 5 days. Due to the added shipping cost that result from fast delivery times, fees a great deal higher using VitalChek. Payment options are also stricter, as payments must be made by credit cards. Gather the needed information. When requesting a birth certificate from VitalChek, you will be asked to provide the following information: Type of certificate requested Relationship to the person on the certificate Full name of the person on the certificate Date and place of birth of the person on the certificate Mother's full and maiden name Father's name Area code and daytime phone number The street address, city, state, and zip code where the certificate will be sent (PO boxes are not accepted) Place your order through VitalChek. VitalChek offers both online and phone orders. You can order by phone by calling 1-877-572-6333 and following the instructions from there. You can order online by going to vitalchek.com and providing the needed information. Pay the fees. VitalChek requires fees be paid by credit card, and they vary based on circumstance. There is a $20.80 fee for each certified record, and an additional $11.95 VitalChek service fee. If you need foreign authentication on a document, there is an additional $10 fee. For mailing, there is an $18.50 fee for UPS Air, a $17 fee for UPS 2 Day Air, and no fee for US Post Office Regular Mail. Know what kind of DMV can issue birth certificates. In Virginia, the Department of Motor Vehicles can issue birth certificates from 1912 to present. The kinds of DMV's that issue certificates are: Full service DMV offices DMV customer service centers DMV 2 Go mobile offices Fill out an application. An application for a birth certificate can be found on the DMV website. The application will ask for the following information: You name, address, city, state, zip code, phone number, and e-mail Your gender Your relationship to the person named on the certificate It will ask for the name of the person on the certificate, their date of birth, gender, place of birth, hospital of birth, and parents full names. Lastly, it will ask for a signature. Go to an office. Go to a DMV office and present your application. You should also include: Appropriate photo identification. The acceptable photo ID's are the same as those listed for walk-in and mail applications. The $14 fee, which can be paid by cash, check, or money order.
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Learn about the office of Vital Records. Know who can obtain a copy of a birth certificate. Know about the DMV option. Complete an application. Bring or make a copy of a valid form of ID. Walk in. Mail in the application. Know the benefits and drawbacks of VitalChek. Gather the needed information. Place your order through VitalChek. Pay the fees. Know what kind of DMV can issue birth certificates. Fill out an application. Go to an office.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Convert-Feet-to-Yards
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How to Convert Feet to Yards
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To convert feet to yards quickly and easily, you can divide the measurement in feet by 3 to convert it to yards because each yard contains 3 feet. For example, if you have a measurement of 12 feet, you would divide the number by 3 to convert the measurement to 4 yards. You can do the division in your head or use a calculator for larger numbers or measurements containing decimal points or fractions.
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Learn the conversion factor. It is fairly well known that one yard is equal to three feet. To convert measurements into yards that wee originally taken in feet, you need to write this conversion factor as a conversion ratio. The ratio is 1 yard 3 feet {\displaystyle {\frac {1{\text{ yard}}}{3{\text{ feet}}}}}. Because the numerator and denominator values are equal, this conversion fraction is equal to 1. Whenever a fraction has a value of 1, you can use it to multiply any number without changing its value but you will convert the units. Set up a conversion equation. When you begin with a measurement in feet that you want to convert to yards instead, you can set up a simple equation using the conversion ratio. As long as the conversion ratio is correct and is equal to 1, the value of the measurement will be unchanged. For example, suppose you have a measurement of 12 feet that you want to convert into yards. Write a brief multiplication problem, as follows: 12 feet = 12 feet ∗ 1 yard 3 feet {\displaystyle 12{\text{ feet}}=12{\text{feet}}*{\frac {1{\text{ yard}}}{3{\text{ feet}}}}} When you write the conversion equation, you need to make sure that you write the conversion fraction so the unit you wish to end up with is in the numerator. If you wrote the conversion fraction as 3 feet 1 yard {\displaystyle {\frac {3{\text{ feet}}}{1{\text{yard}}}}} , your result would be incorrect. This would be the conversion to use for the inverse conversion, from yards to feet. Perform the conversion. After you write out your conversion equation, the final step is going to be a simple division. You will begin with the unit of feet, and your conversion ratio has feet in the denominator. As with any fraction multiplication, something that appears both in the numerator and the denominator can cancel out of the equation. This will leave just the desired unit of yards. In this example, the problem is set up and can be completed as follows: 12 feet = 12 feet ∗ 1 yard 3 feet = 4 yards {\displaystyle 12{\text{ feet}}=12{\text{feet}}*{\frac {1{\text{ yard}}}{3{\text{ feet}}}}=4{\text{ yards}}} Use a shortcut step. Many people find that converting measurements is easy, except for remembering whether to multiply or to divide. Emphasizing the conversion ratio and canceling the units helps answer this question every time. Once you get good at converting units, you can skip the conversion ratio and just divide the number of feet by 3 to get an equal measurement in yards. Search the Internet. Perform a simple Internet search for “convert feet to yards.” You should find many results with a variety of conversion calculators. Review them briefly to find one that has a style and a presentation that you like and find easy to use. The results should be the same, no matter which you choose. For example, the site CheckYourMath.com has a very simple read out. There is one large box to enter the number of feet. After you enter the number of feet, you can then click the “Calculate” button, and the equivalent number of yards will appear. There is also an option for you to select the number of decimal places that you want reported in your result. Enter the number of feet that you want to convert. With the online conversion calculators, you do not need to worry about memorizing a conversion factor. You simply enter the value you wish to convert, and the result appears. Set the precision level, if desired. Some sites will only provide you with a set number of decimal places. Some will allow you to set the precision level of the conversion. If available, set the precision level to what you desire, and the result will automatically provide what you want. Use a calculator with a Conversion function. Many advanced graphing calculators will have a “conversion” function key. If your calculator is equipped with this, you can use it to convert measurements from one unit to another. The Texas Instruments TI-83, TI-84Plus and TI-86 have this feature. On the TI-86, you can find the “Conv” label above the 5 key. To activate it, you need to press the “2nd” key and then the 5 key. Enter into the conversion function. Using the conversion operation will differ slightly from one calculator to the next, but the basic steps will be the same. On the TI-86, begin by pressing “2nd” and “5.” This will open a menu of physical properties that you can convert. Select the physical property that you want to convert. When you open the conversion operation, your screen will show a list of five options: Length, Area, Vol (Volume), Time, Temp. Because feet and yards are measures of length, you will select the F1 button for the first option, “Length.” Select the first unit. As soon as you select that you wish to convert units of “Length,” your screen will show a new list of options. These are the units of length that you can convert. You need to select one of the units from this list. First type in the number of feet that you want to convert. Then choose the F5 function key labeled “ft.” In the example given, you are converting 12 feet into yards. Therefore, first enter “12” and then press F5. Your calculator display screen will show “12 ft” followed by an arrow and a blinking cursor. Choose the unit to convert into. After entering your beginning value and its unit, you need to choose the unit to convert into. The list of units should still be displayed on the screen. In this example, you are converting feet into yards. Yards do not appear as an option on the first list on the display screen. Press the “More” button on your calculator to reveal a second menu. You will see “yd” as the first option. Make this selection by pressing the F1 button below the menu list. After you make that selection, your screen display should show “12 ft→yd.” Press Enter. When the screen display shows the conversion that you want, just press the “Enter” key. The calculator will perform the conversion and show the value on the display screen. This example is an exact, even conversion, so the answer display will simply show “4.” If the conversion is not exact, your calculator will display up to 12 decimal places.
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Learn the conversion factor. Set up a conversion equation. Perform the conversion. Use a shortcut step. Search the Internet. Enter the number of feet that you want to convert. Set the precision level, if desired. Use a calculator with a Conversion function. Enter into the conversion function. Select the physical property that you want to convert. Select the first unit. Choose the unit to convert into. Press Enter.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Cope-with-Receiving-Anonymous-Letters
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How to Cope with Receiving Anonymous Letters
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If you've received a hurtful anonymous letter, often the best thing to do is to ignore it and throw it away. The sender probably wants to upset you and you don't want to give them what they want. However, if the letter is defamatory, you might want to keep it to show to a lawyer or the police. If you want to work out who sent an anonymous letter, narrow down the possible senders by its content and the fluency of the language. For example, if it's about something work related, it's most likely someone at your work place. If the letter is related to your work, you might want to show your boss so they're aware of the situation. If the letter contains a threat, you should also contact the police.
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Ignore the letter. One way to deal with an anonymous letter is to ignore it. Some people do not believe that criticism passed through an anonymous platform is worth any attention. However, notice the tone of the letter. While it is sensible to ignore a hateful letter, it is possible that someone is attempting to give you important information they otherwise feel unable to give you face to face. Getting upset by the contents of an anonymous letter gives the author power. If you have received anonymous hate, don't post about it on social media and try to call them out. Don't address the office, or send e-mails to people you know accusing them of sending you anonymous letters. This validates the anonymous sender because they realize they got to you. It may also cause the author to send you more messages if they know they have gotten to you. Dispose of the letter. Instead of keeping the letter, get rid of it. Throw it away, shred it, tear it up, burn it - whatever you feel you need to do. If you receive an anonymous e-mail or social media message, delete it. Holding on to the letter keeps it around, giving it power over your mind. If you toss it out, you also toss it out of your mind. If the letter contains false or potentially libellous or defamatory information, you could consider destroying the letter by shredding, tearing, or burning. However, it may be advisable to keep the letter in case you wish to show it to a lawyer or the authorities as evidence of threats or harassment. Bear in mind, however, that information would only be defamatory if it is not true. Ponder the contents of the letter. Take some time to examine what the letter said. Ask yourself: Why would someone send this to me? For example, people who find out about an affair often want to let the betrayed partner know but are worried about 'shooting the messenger. ' If you receive a letter like this, try not to dwell on who wrote the letter but look at the details provided and think about whether the information could be true. If the letter contains criticism of your personality, appearance, or work habits, confront those criticisms. Do they have any merit? Is there something you can learn from this anonymous letter and change about yourself? Can you take this as a wake up call in some way? Try to figure out who sent the letter. If you really want to get to the bottom of who sends you an anonymous letter, try to figure out who sent it. Narrow it down by the subject of the letter - if it's about work, the letter more than likely came from a co-worker. If it's about your barking dog, the letter is probably from a neighbor who lives nearby. If it's more general, try to decide who might have a problem with you or something you have done. Have you had any confrontations or disagreements with someone recently? Are you in a high-profile position in your company, community, or other organization that might make you a target for criticism? Sometimes, clues about the writer's identity can be found in the letter itself. Look at the grammar and mechanics usage. Analyze the language being used; sometimes this might help you decide if the person is older or younger, or even what profession they might have. Are there signature words used in the letter that may help lead you to the author? Did they sign it with a nominative like "A friend," "A concerned neighbor," or "An angry mother"? These aren't foolproof ways of discovering the identity, but it might help you get started. Often, the senders of anonymous hate are people close to you, like friends, family members, co-workers, neighbors, and people in the same organizations. Determine the seriousness of the letter. Evaluate if the letter is random, generic hate, or a serious anonymous allegation that needs to be addressed. This might be especially important if you receive an anonymous letter related to your place of employment. Decide if the letter is outlining something serious enough to be addressed. Think about the specifics of the letter. Does it name times, dates, and specific details? This might give the letter some credit; however, it could also be falsified information. Is there a reason this information might be sent through an anonymous letter instead of in person? Would the writer of the letter risk harm, ridicule, or negative consequences if they came forward? Is the language abusive, hateful in nature, or overly negative and critical? If so, this might be a spiteful, angry letter that doesn't need to be taken seriously. Confront the problem. In some instances, the letter might accuse people of doing something that you can't forget. You have two options in this scenario: forget what you read or confront the person. Make sure to listen carefully and openly to what they say without your own prejudices based on the contents of the letter. However, look for any inconsistencies in behavior or signals that they may be eluding the truth. The exception to this rule is if you get a letter accusing your spouse of cheating on you. In such a scenario, it is usually recommended that you do NOT raise the issue with your spouse while you quietly look into the matter carefully, so they do not cover their tracks. It is relatively easy to deceive a trusting partner, and sometimes an anonymous letter is the first sign that there might be cause for you to investigate further. Talk to a trusted friend. If you got a letter that has bothered you, share it with someone you trust. This person can help give you insight on the contents. If the letter contains hateful criticism and words directed to you, they can help you objectively evaluate if there is any validity in the criticisms. If the anonymous letter accuses someone of something, they might be able to help you determine if it is serious enough to pursue. If the letter suggests some action be taken, they can help you evaluate that, too. Reach out to those in authority. If you receive anonymous letters that are a cause of concern, or you repeatedly receive anonymous hate, you may want to ask for help from an authority figure. Contact your local police department if you feel threatened by the letters. If you involve the police, you will need to keep the letters as evidence. Some states may have laws against anonymous threatening that could help you. If you experience anonymous threats at work, go to your immediate boss or supervisor. They can help you figure out what course of action to take. If you are a youth who is receiving anonymous cyberbullying, talk to your parents, teachers, police officers, or other trusted adults. Schools can help with cyberbullying, and if that doesn't work, try contacting one of the cyberbullying help websites, like End Cyberbullying, Cyberbully Help, or Stop Bullying. Obtain the author's location. Sometimes, both physical and electronic letters provide clues to the author's location. If the letter was sent through the mail, check to see if there is a postmark with a city or zip code on it. If the letter was sent electronically, attempt to locate the e-mail's IP address. If the letter was dropped in your mailbox, the person may live in your neighborhood. To view this information in an email, turn on the advanced header. This can be found by opening the e-mail, then clicking on the feature to show more from the e-mail. Look for an option to "show original," "view full header," or "view message source." From there, type the IP address location into Google and use the multiple services shown to obtain a locality. Block the sender. If you are receiving anonymous letters via e-mail or social media, block the sender. Social media sites like Facebook and Twitter have block functions so you can block the user. Most e-mail providers allow users to block e-mail addresses so they can't receive e-mails, or have options to mark the e-mail address as spam so it gets filtered out. If you are receiving hate from any social media account, even an anonymous fake account, report them as breaking terms of service. Most social media accounts have guidelines against threatening messages.
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Ignore the letter. Dispose of the letter. Ponder the contents of the letter. Try to figure out who sent the letter. Determine the seriousness of the letter. Confront the problem. Talk to a trusted friend. Reach out to those in authority. Obtain the author's location. Block the sender.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-Keloid-and-Hypertrophic-Scars
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How to Prevent Keloid and Hypertrophic Scars
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To prevent keloid and hypertrophic scars, talk to your doctor to decide the best method of scar prevention for your skin type and injury. For example, your doctor may recommend a protective silicone sheet over the affected area to reduce the thickness and roughness of the tissue. If you have chronic scarring, your doctor may prescribe silicone dioxide to soften the scar tissue and decrease the redness. After the wound has healed, ask your doctor about steroid injections, which can decrease redness, itching, and discomfort. You may also want to consider cryotherapy, which can make the scar less noticeable.
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Identify the risk factors for keloid scar formation. Keloid scars are more commonly found on the arms, upper chest, and upper back. They grow beyond the borders of the original abrasion and appear as red, raised nodules. Keloids are the result of an overgrowth of dense fibrous tissue that usually develops after healing of a skin injury. You can also develop a keloid scar from a cut, a piercing, or acne. Keloid scars are more difficult to prevent and treat, but early recognition can lead to either prevention or at least reduction. People with darker complexions, pregnant women, teens, individuals under 30, and others with a history of keloid scarring may be more susceptible to keloid scar formation. Know who is at risk for hypertrophic scar formation. Hypertrophic scars are less visible and stay within the boundaries of the original damage. They become flatter and paler over time. While men and women are equally susceptible to hypertrophic scarring, there are specific groups that are more prone to it. People at higher risk include ,: use surgical blades (because they are at a higher risk of cutting themselves) are overweight Asians, Africans, African Americans or other dark skinned people (may also be prominent in Native Americans and Alaskan Natives) are most likely to form keloids. Talk to your doctor. Before deciding on what method to use, consult your physician. Everyone's skin is different and every scar causing injury is different too. Your doctor will be able to tell you whether simple silicone coverings will work or if more extreme measures are necessary to reduce the size of scars or to get rid of them all together. Avoid non-essential cosmetic surgeries. If you have a history of keloidal scarring, then you may want to avoid any non-essential surgeries to prevent scarring. All surgical wounds should be closed with the least amount of tension around the incision. Incisions should not cross joint spaces, which are prone to excessive stretching. Mid-chest incisions should be avoided for the same reason. If you have to get surgery and a scar is unavoidable, there are laser techniques surgeons can use to reduce the appearance of scars. Apply a protective silicone sheet over the affected area. Silicone sheeting is a medical device used to reduce the formation of chronic scarring. It can alter the way scars form and even reduce the thickness and roughness of the tissue. Silicone sheets keep healing wounds moist, while reducing bacterial growth. They also reduce general itching. Use silicone sheets as prescribed by your doctor. Normally, your doctor will tell you to apply the silicone sheeting after the wound has fully closed. If you apply them earlier, you could promote the growth of anaerobic bacteria under the skin, which will lead to greater infections. The sheet is worn on the area for 12 to 23 hours a day depending on the severity and placement of the scar. This treatment may be prescribed for up to three months. Consider silicone dioxide. This mixture can be applied to the injured area in either a gel or a pad form. This compound is also found in silicone sheets. It will help soften the scar tissue and decrease the redness associated with the formation of a keloid scar. Consider cotton wool pressure dressings. In burn cases, pressure garments are often used to treat specific areas. These pressure garments are worn 23 hours a day for up to one year. These dressings do not cut off air to the tissue and can be customized to the specific injury. Pressure dressings are anecdotally effective in management of hypertrophic scars and burn scars. However, there is no evidence to support the use of pressure dressings to improve the appearance of normal post-surgical scars. Ask your doctor about steroid injections. Steroids are injected straight into the scar tissue to help decrease itching, redness, and general discomfort. Some doctors note that the treatment of these symptoms with steroidal injections can also reduce the appearance of scars. Steroid injections (triamcinolone) are given every two to six weeks until improvement is seen. Occasionally, injections can cause a network of surface veins to develop (telangiectasias), or lightening or thinning of the surrounding skin. Try cryotherapy. Research has shown that cryotherapy can decrease the thickness of the scar tissue by up to 58%. The earlier the treatment and thinner the keloid scar, the better the results. Cryotherapy is performed in the physician office using medical instruments that instantly freeze the tissue and kill it on contact. Cryotherapy can cause burns, more scar formation and damage to nearby healthy tissue if done improperly. When cryotherapy is used to treat keloid tissue, further preventative methods must be used as the area heals, such as silicone dioxide, silicone gel sheets and steroid injections. Ask about radiation therapy. Another option for reducing the appearance of keloid scars is radiation therapy. Some plastic surgeons avoid this method of scar removal due to concerns about causing tumors, but studies have shown that this is a safe method as long as surrounding tissues are protected. Discuss surgical excision with your doctor. By itself, surgery can often cause further aggravation and create more scars, but if performed in combination with a number of other treatments (e.g. silicone sheeting and silicone dioxide), surgery can reduce the visibility of such scarring. Once the surgical excision has healed, discuss the use of silicone gel sheets to reduce the recurrence of the scar formation. If you decide to go the surgical route, ask your doctor about Imiquimod. It is a cream that enhances healing and is often used after surgery to prevent scarring. The cream is applied on alternate nights for eight weeks after surgery. Although the trials have been small, the post-surgical recurrence rate averaged only 28 percent over a six- to nine-month follow-up period, with best results (2.9 percent recurrence) in low skin tension areas such as earlobes.
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Identify the risk factors for keloid scar formation. Know who is at risk for hypertrophic scar formation. Talk to your doctor. Avoid non-essential cosmetic surgeries. Apply a protective silicone sheet over the affected area. Use silicone sheets as prescribed by your doctor. Consider silicone dioxide. Consider cotton wool pressure dressings. Ask your doctor about steroid injections. Try cryotherapy. Ask about radiation therapy. Discuss surgical excision with your doctor.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Quails-to-Lay-Eggs
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How to Get Quails to Lay Eggs
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If you want to get quails to lay eggs, keep them in an enclosure where they'll be safe from predators. If the birds feel safe and relaxed, they'll be more likely to lay eggs. Make sure the enclosure provides at least 1 square foot of space for each bird, and include a soft material like hay or straw so the quails can lay their nests. Give the quails food and water each day, and clean the cage every 1-2 weeks. If you just want eggs to eat, you can keep all female quails, but if you want the eggs to hatch, you'll need a male quail in the flock.
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Choose housing for the quails that will keep them safe from predators. There are a variety of different housing options for quails including cages, pens, rabbit hutches, chicken coops, and aviaries. The main requirement to consider when choosing how to house your quails is ensuring that predators cannot get in. Always have a roof and make sure that any wiring is small enough to keep the quails in and other animals out. If you are housing the quails in a raised cage with a wire base, add a catch pan or barrier below the base to prevent predators from reaching the feet of the quails from below. If the entire cage base is made out of wire, add a piece of plywood in a corner of the cage so that the quails do not have to always stand on the wire. This is because standing directly on wire for extended periods of time can damage their feet. Make sure that each quail has at least 1 sq ft (0.093 m2) of floor space. Quails need enough floor space to ensure that they don't feel confined and stressed. Stressed quails are more unlikely to lay eggs. To increase the floor space for each quail, expand the size of their cage or let them roam freely for a portion of the day. Quails that are kept in overcrowded conditions are more likely to be stressed. This is because there isn't enough room for each bird to perform natural behaviors. Place hay or straw in the cage for the quails to use to build nests. Nesting behaviors differ between individual quails. Some quails will lay eggs directly on the ground, while others prefer to lay in a nest. Providing nest-building materials will help the quails that prefer to build a nest to lay eggs. Quails in community pens tend to not build nests and will lay eggs on the ground instead. Clean the cage every 1-2 weeks to avoid disturbing the quails. Quails lay best when they have as few disruptions as possible. This also means that you are less likely to accidentally destroy a nest. Although the cage only needs to be cleaned every 1-2 weeks, make sure that the quails have access to fresh food and water every day. Keep the quails undisturbed and away from predators to reduce their stress. Quails will lay better if they are in a quiet and calm environment, away from loud noises. Also ensure that pet cats and dogs are kept well away from the quails because even if they physically cannot reach them, the presence of predators can scare them. Feed quails aged 6-20 weeks old a developer diet. A developer diet helps to raise young quails for quality egg production. Generally, developer diets are made up of 18% protein and 0.5% phosphorus. You can purchase quail feed from animal feed stores or online. This helps the quails to produce more eggs and for the eggs to have thicker shells. Choose a layer diet for quails aged over 20 weeks old. Laying quails that are older than 20 weeks are classified as mature birds and have different dietary requirements to younger birds. Layer diets usually involve 19% protein and 0.65% phosphorus. Check with you veterinarian if you have any questions about the diet of your quails. Add a calcium enrichment supplement if the egg production is low. You can purchase calcium supplements that are mixed into the quail feed. Limestone, crushed oyster shells, and calcium premix are all good enrichment options. Calcium is essential for high egg quality and production in quails. You can purchase calcium supplements from animal feed stores or online. Follow the directions on the label or consult a veterinarian to determine how much to add to the quail feed. Having enough calcium for egg laying is especially important for older quails. Ensure that the quails have 14-16 hours of light per day. Lighting is essential for quail egg production. Keep the quail cage in a sunny area if possible. If the cage cannot be kept in a sunny area or during winter months with lower sunlight hours, hang artificial lighting above the cage to keep the quails laying. Don't exceed 16 hours of light per day as the quails need time without light to be able to sleep. The laying mechanism of quails shuts down if they get below 12 hours of light per day. It is normal for egg production to decrease during the winter months as the number of sunlight hours reduces. This is healthy for the quails as it helps them to rest. Egg production will rise again as the number of light hours increases. Get 8-12 week old female quails as they are able to produce eggs. Female quails only begin laying eggs once they have reached maturity, which takes a few months. The egg production is normally the highest during the first year of laying and then it declines as the quails age. Domestic quails have a life expectancy of up to 4 years. Give new quails 2-6 weeks to settle in before they are expected to lay eggs. Both the transportation process and being introduced to a new flock can be stressful experiences for quails. Let them settle into their new surroundings first and they should start laying shortly after. 2-6 weeks is a general guide for how long most quails take to begin laying in a new environment. Some quails will start laying much earlier. Keep a group of females together if you want eggs for consumption. You do not need to include a male in the flock for the females to produce eggs, as females will lay regardless of if a male is present. The eggs will be unfertilized which means that they are suitable for consumption. Place 1 male in the flock if you want the quails to breed. A group of 1 male and up to 5 females is ideal if you are wanting to breed quails. Males are often more aggressive than females. It's best just to have 1 male bird per group, as otherwise, the males may fight. It's easy to tell the males and females apart. Males display more aggressive behavior and have brighter feathers on the head, neck, and back. Females tend to be docile and have a more plain coloring.
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Choose housing for the quails that will keep them safe from predators. Make sure that each quail has at least 1 sq ft (0.093 m2) of floor space. Place hay or straw in the cage for the quails to use to build nests. Clean the cage every 1-2 weeks to avoid disturbing the quails. Keep the quails undisturbed and away from predators to reduce their stress. Feed quails aged 6-20 weeks old a developer diet. Choose a layer diet for quails aged over 20 weeks old. Add a calcium enrichment supplement if the egg production is low. Ensure that the quails have 14-16 hours of light per day. Get 8-12 week old female quails as they are able to produce eggs. Give new quails 2-6 weeks to settle in before they are expected to lay eggs. Keep a group of females together if you want eggs for consumption. Place 1 male in the flock if you want the quails to breed.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Repair-Rotted-Eaves
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How to Repair Rotted Eaves
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Over time, weather and nesting animals can rot your home's eaves, which are the overhanging edges of your roof. Fortunately, repairing rotten or weathered eaves is a relatively simple project. Your first step will be prying away the bottom and sides of the old eaves. Your new boards will have to match the old ones in terms of width and thickness, so when you go to your local home improvement center you may want to bring them a sample of your old eaves so they match. When you're ready to install your new eaves, apply a weatherproof coating to the new pieces. Once the new eaves are ready, you can secure them using stainless steel nails. If there are any cracks and crevices, seal them up with caulk to keep water, animals, and insects out.
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Remove the gutters and roof flashing if needed. In order to give yourself clear access to the eaves, you may first need to detach the drainage structures covering them. Unscrew the gutters at the brackets, then pull out the nails holding them in place and lower them down safely. Do the same for flashing where it overlaps the edges of the overhang. Set up a ladder on a flat stretch of ground directly beneath the section of gutter you're removing and station a friend or helper nearby to stabilize it while you're working. For larger projects, consider renting and assembling a full scaffolding around your roof. A scaffolding will also be much safer to work on, and won't require any additional assistance for support. Pry off the shingle mold. Starting at one corner of the roof, wedge a pry bar into the narrow space at the top of the shingle mold (the thin wooden strip that sits just below the shingles). Force the mold away from the roofing a few inches at a time, then lift off the entire piece in one section. Hold onto the old shingle mold if it looks to be in good shape. You can reuse it later. If you're having trouble getting the shingle mold to budge, try scoring the upper and lower edges with a utility knife. Be careful not to damage the piece by wrenching on it with the pry bar. Pull away the rotten fascia. With the shingle mold out of the way, you'll be able to simply work the fascia (the vertical boards framing the outside of the eaves) free by hand. Due to their deteriorated state, they should come away easily. Don't discard the old fascia just yet—it will come in handy for cutting your replacement materials. Use your pry bar to loosen sections that have become stuck or jammed. Keep a large waste bin or similar container nearby to dispose of all the rotten roofing materials together when you're finished with your project. Remove the old soffit. The soffit is the wide horizontal board that encloses the underside of the eaves. Like the fascia, a decaying soffit should be soft enough to pull out manually. Grab the exposed edge of the board and give it a sharp tug downward to dislodge it. Don't be surprised if the soffit breaks apart while you're attempting to pull it free. Waterlogged boards will often be soggy and prone to crumbling. Take caution when removing the old soffit. It's not uncommon for birds, squirrels, and insects like bees and termites to build their nests behind these enclosures. Cut away rotten or damaged rafters. Examine the condition of the rafter (the thick beam running the length of the overhang). Assuming it's in good shape, you can leave it in place and install the new materials around it. If it shows signs of rotting, water damage, or other wear you'll need to chop it out using a reciprocating saw. To make the removal process easier, cut the rafter in 1–2 feet (0.30–0.61 m) sections, then pause to rip each section individually. If your eaves are upheld by multiple rafters, you'll need to remove and replace them one at a time in order to avoid compromising your roof's stability. Gather your materials for the new eaves. Head down to your local home improvement center and shop for boards to replace the worn-out soffit and fascia. It's important that the new boards match the old ones in terms of width and thickness—you can cut them to the right length later. It may help to bring along a small section of the old materials for reference. In addition to wood, you also have the option of choosing a material like cellular PVC, fiber cement, aluminum, or galvanized steel for your new eaves. These materials will be stronger, longer-lasting, and more weather-resistant than ordinary boards. Make sure you also pick up enough pressure-treated lumber to cut new shingle molds and rafters, if necessary. Cut new lumber for the rafters if needed. If your supports are in need of replacing, saw the new beam to match the old one. Remember to use only pressure-treated lumber for the rafters. It will hold up much better to moisture and stress. Install the new rafters. Clamp the replacement beam to the wooden backboard at the rear of the eave enclosure to hold it in place. Fasten the rafter with 4" (10 cm) wood screws. When you've successfully replaced one rafter, it will be safe to begin removing the next one. Since the rafters are a critical part of the eaves' support structure, it will be necessary to make sure they're in good condition before you begin installing the new components for your eaves. Press on the newly-installed beam to double check that it's solid and secure before moving on. Cut the new soffit. Using a section of the rotted soffit as a template, saw the replacement material to the right size. This can be done with a handsaw, though you'll get the most precise and efficient results with a circular saw or table saw. Ideally, the soffit should be made up of only 1 or 2 boards to minimize leaking. If you don't have enough intact soffit to serve as a template, measure the underside of the eaves from one side of the house to the other and mark the dimensions on the new board. The fewer pieces you use to fashion the soffit, the less chance there will be of water, insects, and other destructive forces finding their way in. Cut the replacement fascia. Trim the fascia boards to the correct length the same way you did the soffit. Be sure to cut the edges where the boards will meet to opposing 45 degree angles so they'll fit together properly. If your home's eaves feature any unique angles or projections, it may be necessary to measure and mark these features on the fascia board prior to sawing to confirm that everything will line up the way it's supposed to. Some materials, like aluminum or steel, may need to be measured and cut in-store by a home improvement specialist before you bring them home. Apply a coat of weatherproofing sealant to wood fascia and soffits. Before you put the new roofing components in place, you'll want to make sure that they'll be able to stand the test of time. The best way to do this is to treat them with a wax or resin finish. Brush the sealant onto both sides of your materials, then let them sit until they're dry to the touch. It should only take 1-2 hours for the sealant to dry into a functional finish. Once it's set into the wood, the sealant will help repel moisture, mold, grime, and other messes, preventing rotting in the future. Attach the new soffit. Align the soffit board with the underside of the eave so that its edges are flush with the rafter. Then, nail it into place. For a sturdier hold, sink a nail every 4–6 inches (10–15 cm). 1.5 inches (3.8 cm) wood screws will also be strong enough to get the job done. It may help to have an assistant hold the board in place while you fasten it down. Spread caulk around the edges of the soffit. Use a caulk gun to fill in any gaps, cracks, or crevices you happen to spot in the new soffit. This will provide further protection against water and insect-related damage. Allow the filler to harden before modifying the soffit in any way. You can also use roofing cement or wood putty in place of traditional caulk. Attach the new fascia. Position the replacement boards over the rafter and secure them using galvanized nails or 2.5 inches (6.4 cm) wood screws. Repeat this process for each section of the roof where the eaves are beginning to show signs of deterioration. Once the new fascia is in place, you can fill the nail holes and paint the boards to match the rest of your home's trim. By the time you finish your project, your new overhang will be solid, watertight, and ready to stand up to a stiff downpour or a family of nesting squirrels.
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Remove the gutters and roof flashing if needed. Pry off the shingle mold. Pull away the rotten fascia. Remove the old soffit. Cut away rotten or damaged rafters. Gather your materials for the new eaves. Cut new lumber for the rafters if needed. Install the new rafters. Cut the new soffit. Cut the replacement fascia. Apply a coat of weatherproofing sealant to wood fascia and soffits. Attach the new soffit. Spread caulk around the edges of the soffit. Attach the new fascia.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Gargle
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How to Gargle
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To gargle, fill a glass with salt water, mouthwash, or a baking soda and water mixture. Sip a small amount of the solution into your mouth and swish it around the front and sides. After swishing, tilt your head back, and make an “ahh” sound with your throat, making sure that you don't swallow any liquid. This will cause the liquid to move around and coat the back of the mouth.
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Find a clean glass. This is now your "gargling cup." While you don't have to use a special cup to put your gargling liquid in, it's often safer than drinking directly out of a bottle of mouthwash, for example, because you avoid transmitting bacteria. Fill your gargling cup with your gargling liquid of choice. A little bit is fine — better to start out with less than with too much. Put a small amount of the gargling liquid in your mouth and swish it around in your mouth. The goal is to try to get the front and sides of the mouth, areas that gargling won't get, during this first sweep. Move your cheeks in and out, and your tongue back and forth, to swish the gargling liquid back and forth in your mouth. Some people enjoy warming the gargling liquid up a bit before gargling. While it probably won't be pleasant if you're using mouthwash, warm water and a little bit of salt feels nice in the back of the mouth. Tilt your head back, and without swallowing the liquid, try to open your mouth and make the "ahhh" sound. Keep the small flap in the back of your throat, the epiglottis, closed so that none of the liquid gets accidentally swallowed. This may take a bit of time to get used to, but when done correctly, the vibrations in the back of your mouth will cause the gargling liquid to move about, almost as if the liquid were boiling. Gargling will coat the back of the mouth with whatever liquid you choose, eliminating some bacteria and soothing a sore throat. Spit the gargling liquid out into the sink. Continue with your oral health routine by brushing your teeth or flossing. Try gargling with a simple salt water (saline) solution. Mix a half-teaspoon of salt in a cup of warm water. Stir to dissolve. Gargle the saline solution three times a day to help prevent respiratory tract infections. One study found that people who gargled a simple salt solution three times a day had a 40% decrease in upper respiratory tract infections. Not only does the saltwater gargle appear to ease cold symptoms, but it also keeps you healthier during cold and flu season. Other studies point to evidence that saline solutions help fight against sore throat and congestion. Try gargling a commercial or homemade mouthwash. Mouthwash helps simultaneously freshen your breath, clean your mouth, and fight against infection. They are used by millions of people, morning and night, as part of their oral health routine. Mouthwashes with alcohol tend to be more potent but carry the risk of several adverse side effects, including mouth ulcers, corroded fillings, and even the elevated threat of cancer. Use them sparingly. You can also make your own mouthwash if you'd like. In fact, it's quite easy. Here are some quick and refreshing recipes: Peppermint and tea tree mouthwash Angelica mouthwash A host of other simple mouthwashes Gargle with a simple baking soda and water combination. Potassium bicarbonate, or baking soda, is a renowned cleaner used for tons of home applications. Who knew it made such a great mouthwash? Actually, one teaspoon of baking soda and 8 ounces of water does a great job at rebalancing your oral pH. Add a bit of essential oil like peppermint oil for antimicrobial properties and you've got a great gargling liquid! Try adding lemon and honey to hot water for a soothing gargle. The benefit of this gargling liquid is that it's actually something that you can drink after gargling, unlike the other solutions. Try adding a tablespoon each of honey and lemon juice to 6 ounces of water. Gargle, then swallow, especially if you have a sore throat and want to eliminate some mucous.
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Find a clean glass. Fill your gargling cup with your gargling liquid of choice. Put a small amount of the gargling liquid in your mouth and swish it around in your mouth. Tilt your head back, and without swallowing the liquid, try to open your mouth and make the "ahhh" sound. Spit the gargling liquid out into the sink. Try gargling with a simple salt water (saline) solution. Try gargling a commercial or homemade mouthwash. Gargle with a simple baking soda and water combination. Try adding lemon and honey to hot water for a soothing gargle.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Forget-a-Friend-Who-Meant-a-Lot-to-You
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How to Forget a Friend Who Meant a Lot to You
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Losing a friend can be a painful time, but working through your emotions and distracting yourself will make it easier to move on. Let yourself feel every emotion that comes your way regarding your former friendship. You may feel sad, angry, guilty, or relieved, and all of these are completely normal. Try talking or writing about your feelings to help yourself work through them. It's also important to try and distract yourself from the friendship in order to move on. Pick an activity that you enjoy, which doesn't remind you of your friend, so that you can start to move on. For example, try swimming, running, or reading a new book series. Practicing self-care is also important while you process your loss. Remember to take the time to relax, recharge, and spend time with people that support you.
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Do not play the blame game. Assigning blame is unhealthy and breeds anger. While both you and your former friend may have been at fault for the dissolution of your friendship, you are not in control of the each other's thoughts, feelings, choices, or actions. Understanding that both you and your friend have roles to play in the ending of your friendship is important and will help you to consider the potential reasons for the end of your friendship from both your point of view and from the point of view of your former friend. Work through your negative emotions. Be aware that you may feel anger, guilt, sadness, or grief over the loss of your friendship. This is completely normal. It is important to process and work through these feelings on your own or with the help of a licensed mental health professional. You might work through your emotions by: Writing about your feelings Talking about your feelings Making art about your feelings Channeling your feelings into something else Allow yourself to go through your emotional process. You may feel a range of emotions when faced with a loss. It is important to allow yourself to process these feelings and understanding where these emotions come from. Ask yourself why you feel the way you do over the loss of your friendship. Do you miss the person? Do you miss the support that your former friend had given to you? Do you miss the activities that you used to do as friends? Understanding why you feel the way you do is the first step in coming to terms with your emotions. Let yourself feel as deeply as you need to. Do not try to block out the negative or painful emotions that accompany the dissolution of your friendship. Temporarily sitting with the pain or negativity will eventually allow you to move beyond those feelings and heal. However, avoid dwelling on these feelings for an extended period of time. While you should acknowledge and confront your emotions, feeling down on yourself and mulling over these emotions for months on end will only drag you down. Understand that healing takes time. In order to heal from this loss and move forward, you must be patient. Rushing through your natural process is unhealthy and will not resolve your negative feelings properly. Recognize that you may have trouble letting your guard down around new people, initially. This is fine. Acknowledge that people change and grow. You are not the same person that you were when you met your friend, nor are they the same person they were when they met you. Over time, everyone's interests change and those changes can cause distance and disagreements between friends. Understanding that this is a normal fact of life might help you better accept the end of your friendship. Think about who you were when you met your former friend. Think about who your former friend was when you met. Think about the reasons you became friends with this person. Think about who you are now. How have you changed during the time you were friends? Think about who your former friend is now. How has s/he changed? Write down the significant changes you and your friend experienced in a list form from the time you met until your friendship ended. Read over your lists and understand that change, while at times imperceptible without scrutiny, is inevitable. You and your former friend have both changed and it is possible that you are no longer compatible as friends as a result. Understanding and accepting this fact without placing blame will help you move on. Accept that your friendship has ended. While acceptance can be difficult, it is an important step in moving forward with your life. Moreover, accepting the situation means that you have made peace with it and are no longer tormenting yourself with what-ifs, details of the dissolution that cannot be changed, or negative emotions. View your friendship as a learning experience for future friendships. Note what worked, what didn't, and how you want to select friends and form relationships moving forward. Focus on the things over which you have control. If you focus on the actions of others, you'll dwell on what-ifs and moments that cannot be changed. Instead, try to spend your time and energy on your personal actions. Moreover, focusing on your choices and actions will help you to live in the present, rather than focusing on the past. Examples of personal actions and choices you can focus upon include: Acknowledging and working through your emotions Acting with kindness and generosity toward others, including your former friend Deciding to spend time with your other friends and family members Working to move forward with your life Cut off all contact with your friend. This will allow you to gain distance from the person, which will enable you to refocus time and energy that you previously would have given to your friend. Better still, when you stop interacting with your friend, you are less likely to think about them as well. Finally, in ceasing all contact with your former friend, you are ensuring that no negative interactions between the two of you come to fruition. You might consider cutting off contact with your former friend by: Blocking their phone number Ignoring and/or deleting emails Not returning text messages Unfriending or blocking them on social media Avoiding them in face-to-face situations Engage in an activity to distract yourself from your loss. You might decide to go shopping, to go see a movie, or to go for a walk if you are looking for a short-term distraction. If you think you'll need a longer activity, you might consider taking up a hobby or donating your time to help others. Regardless of what you decide to do, it is important to fill your time in some way in order to positively channel your energy and emotions. Activities you might enjoy include, but are not limited to: Dancing Making music Reading Exercising Playing a sport Undertaking an art project Volunteering your time at a charity organization Mentoring someone else. Learn how to be your own friend. Being your own friend means learning about yourself and accepting yourself for who you are. Practice self-compassion by speaking kindly to yourself and finding solo activities that make you feel confident and empowered. For example, you might enjoy writing or hiking by yourself. Set some personal goals and make a plan for achieving them. Make sure these goals are something personally meaningful, not a way of getting attention from your former friend or making them jealous. Spend time caring for yourself. You need time to process the dissolution of your friendship. While you are processing your loss, you need to make sure that you are caring for yourself. Make sure that you are eating properly, getting enough rest, working through your emotions in a healthy manner, and not isolating yourself. Remember that sometimes you need to put yourself first. You can improve your well-being by: Seeking out the company of friends and family when you are lonely Eating healthy foods in appropriate quantities Getting adequate exercise Spending time alone in order to recharge and relax Sleeping regularly at night Investing your time in activities you enjoy Confide in a trustworthy friend or family member. Keeping your feelings bottled up will hurt you in the long run. This doesn't mean that you should reestablish communication with your former friend, but certainly you should talk about your feelings with someone you know, love, and trust. Your friend or family member can offer you support and love through the act of listening. While they are not a replacement for your former friend, your friend or family member can diminish the impact of your loss. Make new friends. You can go to social networking sites or simply start conversations with other people that you may encounter in your daily life. Know what traits you are looking for in a friend as you are getting to know new acquaintances. You might even look for positive qualities in your former best friend in the people you are befriending. Here are some ways to make new friends: Strike up a conversation with a stranger in line at the grocery store Talk to the barista at your local coffee shop about his or her interests Go to an art or music show and talk to people there Meet people online through social networking sites Open the lines of communication between the yourself and another person Participate in mutual self-disclosing behaviors with others Invite new acquaintances to hang out with you Talk to a mental health professional if the loss feels too immense for you to process alone. Mental health professionals are impartial listeners and it is their job to avoid making judgments. If you need to vent to someone, or if you feel that the loss of your friend has created a severe imbalance of emotions for you, please do not hesitate to seek help. You do not have to go through this loss alone. Adopt a pet. While an animal cannot replace your former friend, you can form a new and important bond of companionship and love with an animal, which might help you reconcile the loss you have experienced. Studies have shown that owning a pet also leads to lower stress levels, better psychological health, and emotional support. All of these emotional and health benefits would certainly be a pro for someone who is dealing with the loss of a close friendship.
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Do not play the blame game. Work through your negative emotions. Allow yourself to go through your emotional process. Ask yourself why you feel the way you do over the loss of your friendship. Let yourself feel as deeply as you need to. Understand that healing takes time. Acknowledge that people change and grow. Accept that your friendship has ended. Focus on the things over which you have control. Cut off all contact with your friend. Engage in an activity to distract yourself from your loss. Learn how to be your own friend. Spend time caring for yourself. Confide in a trustworthy friend or family member. Make new friends. Talk to a mental health professional if the loss feels too immense for you to process alone. Adopt a pet.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Bowling-Ball
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How to Clean a Bowling Ball
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To clean a bowling ball, start by dampening a rag with a little rubbing alcohol and then wiping down the ball with it. Then, take a dry towel and wipe down the ball again to dry it off. Try to do this after each time you bowl so that oil doesn't build up and make the ball harder to clean. To deep clean the ball and remove oil build up, start by covering the finger holes on the ball with waterproof tape. Then, submerge the ball in a bucket of hot water and let it soak for 20 minutes. Finally, remove the ball and dry it off with a clean towel.
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Prevent the buildup of oil for easier cleaning. When the oil is fresh on your ball, it'll be easiest to wipe away. Wipe your ball after every game to maintain its condition. Keep a ball towel with your bowling gear for this purpose, and change it out after every time you play so oil doesn't build up on the cloth and transfer again to the ball. Your ball towel, ideally, should be a lint free, microfiber cloth. Microfiber cloths will protect the finish of your ball, and lint free cloth will keep threads and pieces of cloth from rubbing onto your ball and influencing your game. For the best results and the most consistent throws, towel off your ball after every shot. During prolonged play, you may want to swap in a clean towel at about the halfway point in your play. Moisten your rag with rubbing alcohol. As soon as you finish bowling, the ball will be warm from the friction of the lane. This heat opens the pores on your ball, allowing you to clean the ball better. A little bit of alcohol goes a long way, so use it sparingly to wet your rag, then wipe down the entire surface of your ball. After you have wiped down your ball with your alcohol dampened cloth, take a dry part of your towel or a fresh towel and wipe free any remaining moisture on its surface. Clean the ball regularly. The longer the oil sits on the surface of your ball, the more a chance it has to sink in and become harder to remove. This means that by cleaning your ball every time you bowl, your ball will stay cleaner for longer. This can save you a considerable amount in professional cleaning and help you bowl more consistently. Wait until you've bowled a significant number of games. This kind of deep cleaning is known among bowlers and pros as "pulling the oil out of the ball." Basically, this removes oil that has sunk deep into the pores of your ball over the course of many games. The number of games you should wait before deep cleaning will depend entirely on how frequently you play and the lanes you play on. When playing on oily lanes regularly, you may want to have the oil pulled from your ball every 50 games. Better regulated lanes might only require your ball to be deep cleaned every 70 - 100 games. When you start noticing the action of your ball on the lane to change, it's probably time for a deep cleaning. Tape up the finger holes on your bowling ball. You'll want to use a waterproof tape to do this. Water that gets into the finger holes of your ball can harm its performance. Apply the tape over the holes and smooth it so it is flat and there are no gaps in the tape. To ensure that no water gets into your finger holes, you may want to use an additional piece of tap per hole. Fill a bucket with hot water and insert your ball. Oil is lighter than water, so it and any accompanying dirt will lift from the surface of your ball when soaked in warm water. To allow the water enough time to work into the pores of your ball, soak your ball for 20 minutes. Remove your ball, take off its tape, and dry it. After your ball is finished soaking, it should be mostly clean. To prevent water on the surface of your ball from dripping into finger holes, keep the tape on the ball and use a clean, lint free towel or rag to dry the ball. When the ball is mostly dry, remove the tape and dry it again to remove any remaining moisture. Take your ball to your local pro shop. Even if you're a pro bowler, it's unlikely that you'll have a specialized ball cleaning machine of your own. These machines are essentially tanks of water that heat to open the pores of the ball and remove deeply entrenched oil. You should be able to find one of these machines at most bowling pro shops. Have a pro shop employee clean your ball. This service is usually relatively inexpensive, and having a professional clean and polish your ball all but ensures a thorough cleaning. Beyond that, your pro will be able to point out damage that you might otherwise not have noticed. Plan for the wait time until the ball is clean. The time it takes your pro shop to clean your ball may vary, but you can generally expect ball cleaning to take about an hour and a half. If you have a spare ball, this is just enough time for you to squeeze a few games in. Alternatively, you could run errands, tackle some chores, read a book, or play a handheld game while you're waiting. This way, you're not bored while your ball is cleaned. Bowl like a champion. Now that your ball is cleaned and polished, it should have regained the same lane reaction as it did originally. Continue to wipe your ball with a towel after throws, and clean it after every game to maintain its condition.
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Prevent the buildup of oil for easier cleaning. Moisten your rag with rubbing alcohol. Clean the ball regularly. Wait until you've bowled a significant number of games. Tape up the finger holes on your bowling ball. Fill a bucket with hot water and insert your ball. Remove your ball, take off its tape, and dry it. Take your ball to your local pro shop. Have a pro shop employee clean your ball. Plan for the wait time until the ball is clean. Bowl like a champion.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Loosen-Up
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How to Loosen Up
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Trying to loosen up may seem like a tough challenge, but there are some easy steps you can take to help you relax. Make time during your day to laugh, whether it's by watching a comedy show or silly videos on YouTube. You should also do fun activities with your friends from time to time, such as going bowling or playing games. Hanging out and relaxing with other people will make it easier for you to chill out. If you feel yourself getting uptight at any point, try stepping outside for a few minutes. Sometimes, just getting a breath of fresh air can help you cool down. When you think about how other people behave, try to avoid having strict expectations, since you can't control them. For example, don't assume that everyone will turn up on time to your party, because you'll only be disappointed if they don't. Instead, accept that many different things may happen, like some people not being able to come or several friends turning up an hour late.
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Accept that you can't control everything. One of the biggest reasons some people have a hard time loosening up is because they want to be in control of every situation. They want to be able to predict exactly what's going to happen and when. They want to know when they will succeed, how their boss/best friend/parents will react, and they want to believe that they know exactly what they have to do to get what they want. Unfortunately, life doesn't work that way. It's filled with surprises and curve balls, both good and bad. If you really want to loosen up, then you have to get ready to expect the unexpected. It takes baby steps to get here. One way you can start is to start thinking of the multiple outcomes that can happen. Let's say you're up for a promotion. Instead of assuming you'll get it, think of the different options and how you'll react to them – you may get the promotion, or you may be told that you will get it pretty soon, or you may be told that you need to work harder if you really want that promotion. Whatever happens, if you're prepared in advance, you'll be less freaked out when “the unexpected” happens. There are some things you really can't prepare for in advance. Maybe you and your boyfriend are on your way to a romantic getaway when your car breaks down. Yeah, it sucks, but sometimes, you have to learn to laugh at the things you can't control. Let go of being a micro-planner. If you obsessively plan every fifteen-minute block of your day, then you are guaranteed to be frustrated and disappointed when something doesn't go your way. Let go of unrealistic standards. This is another thing that may be in the way of you loosening up. You may expect everyone to be on their best behavior 24/7. You may think that your teachers, your boss, your friends, your significant other, or anyone else in your life is able to read your mind all the time. You may think that the world should give you what you deserve. Well, if you want to loosen up, then you have to learn to accept the imperfections of the world around you; if you want to be able to determine how everyone around you should act, then you should go play the SIMS. Once you stop expecting people to act the way you want them to act, you'll be pleasantly surprised when they exceed your expectations. People aren't perfect. Sometimes, they will be rude, insensitive, and immature. And that's okay. This goes back to the “letting go of control” thing – let go of your high expectations of everything around you, and you are guaranteed to loosen up. This includes letting go of the unrealistic standards you set for yourself. If you expect yourself to be a CEO/Oscar-winning actress/best-selling author by the time you turn 25, then yeah, you are bound to be tense and disappointed when it doesn't happen for you. Be comfortable with making mistakes. People who are uptight freak out anytime something they have planned doesn't go perfectly because they made a mistake, big or small. You have to learn to embrace failure as a learning experience, instead of punishing yourself for not doing something as well as you could have. Mistakes are a part of life and life would be no fun if we all completed our tasks like robots. If you've made a mistake, think about what you learned from it, what you would have done differently, and how you can use this knowledge in the future. People who can't loosen up are so stuck in expecting themselves to be perfect that they feel like huge losers if they misstep somewhere down the line. Learn to let things slide. People who can't loosen up get hung up on every little thing someone does wrong and every little annoying personality trait that someone around them possesses. Sure, Katie got too drunk at your birthday party, or your lab partner forgot to do his part of the project, and that sucks, but how much energy do you want to spend wishing other people acted differently? The answer is, no energy at all. Learn to take a deep breath, accept that it takes all kinds of people to make the world, and move on with your day. If someone is really partaking in irritating behavior that is driving you crazy, take some deep breaths, take a bathroom break if you need to, and learn to look past it. The worst thing you can do is to tell everyone within a 25-mile radius about how annoying the person's behavior is; talking about it will only make you look uptight and is guaranteed to make you feel worse. Try to think about the scheme of things. Will Bill's antics or Mallory's loudmouth really annoy you even twelve hours from right now? If the answer is no, then why not stop letting it annoy you this moment? Have a realistic idea of what to expect in certain situations. This can also help you loosen up a bit. Before you go into a situation, make a list of all of the different things that can happen, instead of the one thing you expect to happen, and you'll be better off for it. Let's say you're throwing yourself a birthday party. Best case scenario: everyone shows up, it's the best party ever, people will be talking about it for years, etc. But more realistically, some things are bound to go wrong: maybe a few guests who promised to come won't make it, a few people will have five tequila shots too many and may fall into your bookshelf, and maybe your crush will act lame. The more scenarios you have in your head, the less likely you are to freak out if something doesn't happen according to plan. That's not to say that you shouldn't keep up a positive attitude and expect the best. But if you're aware of the other possibilities, you're much less likely to freak out and cause a ruckus if something less-than-great happens. Don't take yourself too seriously. This is another quality that people who have trouble loosening up all share. You may have a hard time laughing in the face of crisis, understanding when someone is just teasing you, or even understanding your own foibles because you think that you are a very serious, important, busy person who cannot be bothered to point out his or her own imperfections. Make a list of your flaws and learn to poke fun at them! It's better that you realize what your weaknesses are than to have someone else point them out. The key is not to be so darn sensitive. If you act like you're going to cry or get upset about every little thing someone says about you, then no one will feel like they can relax around you. You don't want to be that person who stops people from having a little harmless fun, do you? See the situation from another person's perspective. Another trick to being able to relax is to understand where all of those pesky people who are bothering you are coming from. So Marcia got too drunk at your birthday party and tried to make out with your lamp. Maybe that's annoying, but remember that Marcia got dumped that week and she's been acting a little off ever since. Maybe Mark didn't turn in his project on time; remember that he has been taking care of his sick mother and has been a little under the weather. Humans are, well, human, and if you think about some of the reasons that people may not act the way you want them to act, then you'll be able to accept their behavior more readily. This doesn't mean that there's always a great reason for someone to act out of line. But more often than not, if you dig deeper, you'll be able to find an explanation for it. And that's what people who need to relax live on – explanations. Have some brainless fun. You can still think of yourself as the smart one or the serious one and relax and have some fun once in a while. Go bowling. Play charades. Get a little drunk on wine and giggle with your girlfriends. Try on silly costumes. Run around the beach. Do something that requires 0% of your brain power. It'll feel good. Let those worries, ambitions, and problems go and just live in the moment. Living in the moment and being fun and silly will help you be a happier and less tense person over all. Be spontaneous. You don't have to plan a time for having brainless fun. If you're hanging out with friends and suddenly don't feel like talking about your stock options, then get silly! Do something completely new. Take a salsa class, go to a comedy show, or have fun putting temporary tattoos on your friends' faces. If it would appeal to a fifth grader, even better! Learn to take a joke. This is key to loosening up. If someone teases you, makes fun of you, or makes a joke as a response to a comment you've made, you have to learn to laugh it off – and maybe even to give it right back! If you can never take a joke directed toward you, even if it's harmless, then you will have a reputation for being uptight and no fun to be around. Laugh at yourself, agree with the person, and then dish it right back. If the joke is really meant to be hurtful, then you have the right to be upset, but in most cases, people are just trying to keep you on your toes and to let you know that nobody's perfect! Break some rules. This doesn't mean you should break into a car or steal an iPod. But it does mean that you should stop being so obsessed about sticking to the rules that you go crazy if you see somebody breaking them. Don't follow every assignment to a T. It'll feel good when you find yourself doing things your way instead of doing what other people want you to do 100% of the time. And if you're hanging out with friends who are acting slightly reckless – drinking too much, speeding a little, being annoying at the drive-thru – then yeah, you can be the person who says, “Stop it, you guys!” or you can roll with it and see that nothing bad will happen. Take a break. Sometimes you just need to take a break in the middle of all the action to really relax. If you feel like you're as tight as a drum in the middle of work, school, or even a fun session with friends, then you just need to cool it for a few minutes, to step outside, to look at cute photos of cats, to call your mom, or just to do whatever it is you think will help you feel normal again. There's nothing wrong with taking a break from the action, and it does not mean that you're showing weakness. If stepping out for a bit in the middle of a tense time will help you loosen up, then go for it! If you're really a type-A, hardworking person, then you may feel like you won't get a moment of rest until whatever task is at hand gets done, but in reality, if you take half an hour away from your task, you may be able to get it done more easily and with a more level head. Get some rest. One of the reasons you may find it so hard to loosen up is because your body is chronically exhausted without you realizing it. If you get enough rest, you'll have more energy and peace of mind for facing the day, and won't let the most basic challenges upset you. Aim to get at least 7-8 hours of sleep and to go to bed around the same time every night and wake up around the same time every morning. Limit caffeine after noon so you don't feel wired and restless when it's time for bed. These small changes can make a big impact on how you see the world. If you're really feeling stressed out in the middle of the day, don't underestimate the power of a good 15-20 minute power nap to helping reboot your system. Go outside. Just stepping outdoors, getting some fresh air, and walking around for 20 minutes a day can make you feel more relaxed, more at peace, and more at one with the world. Make sure to go outside at least 2-3 times a day if you work from home or just if you tend to spend most of your time at home. You'll be surprised by how relaxed and invigorated you feel just from being outdoors, and how much less the small stuff will start to bother you. Hang out with relaxed people. This is a big one. If you want to be able to loosen up and not be so obsessed with being perfect, then you have to hang out with other people who are much more chill than you are. They don't have to be guitar-playing hippies, but they should be people who are a lot less obsessed with the small details of life who know how to be spontaneous and to kick back whenever they feel like it. These people will rub off on you and you will feel more relaxed in no time. And on the opposite end of the spectrum, hanging out with people who are super uptight, who are obsessed with perfect grades, the perfect career, etc, are bound to make you even more uptight, too. Declutter your life. Though organizing your desk or cleaning out your closet may not sound like the path to a more relaxed life, you will see that, if you feel more organized and on top of your game, that you'll actually feel like a more relaxed person. You may find it hard to loosen up because you can't find anything in your closet or because you keep losing important documents, or just because of all the clutter in your life. So, take some time (maybe just 30 minutes a day) to start sorting out your space, and you'll be amazed by how much lighter you'll feel. Exercise. Getting some exercise will help you burn steam, will give your body a positive outlet, and will give you the energy you need to face the day. Make a goal of exercising for at least 30 minutes a day, whether you're running, biking, rock climbing, or swimming, and you'll see that you'll be able to burn off a lot of that negative, pent-up energy. Get a buddy to exercise with so you can laugh while you burn some calories. If you're super stressed out all the time, you may feel like you don't have time for things like exercise. But if you can move your schedule around, you'll find that you'll be able to carve out the time for your mind and your body. Get a massage. Go to a massage parlor and take care of that tension in your neck, back, and body. If you're uncomfortable about this, then get a trusted friend to give you a massage. It will definitely help you relax, especially in moments of high stress or tension. Don't knock it until you try it. Before you know it, you may be signing up for weekly massages! Do yoga. Yoga has been proven to have countless benefits on your mind and body, one of which is helping people relax and live in the moment. You can take a power yoga class if you want more of a workout or a more calming and meditation-focused class if you want to focus on your mind. Just practicing 2-3 times a week can really help you loosen up and feel more centered. If you really enjoy the classes, then you may even end up practicing on your own. Dance. Blast your music and dance alone in your room or get into a spontaneous dance contest with your friends. Whether you're hanging out at home, hitting up the clubs, or even enrolled in a dance class, dancing can help you get rid of some of that negative energy, learn to experiment and not take yourself so seriously, and can help you generally unwind and have fun. Meditate. Just 10-20 minutes of mediation a day can help you be more loose and relaxed throughout the day. Find a quiet place in your home, take a seat, close your eyes, and focus on your breath. Feel the breath going in and out of your body as you relax your body one part at a time. Ignore any noises and distractions in your way and focus on reaching a calm, happy place. When you're done, you'll be much more equipped for facing the challenges ahead of you. Drink a cup of tea or coffee. For many people, the routine of brewing a cup of tea or coffee is just as relaxing as the drink itself. So, partake in this morning ritual to get your day started on a calm, relaxing note. Make sure not to overdo it on the caffeine, though, or you will actually make yourself more tense. Laugh more. Laughter really is the best medicine and it can definitely help you loosen up, no matter how bad of a day you're having. Make a habit of laughing more during your daily life, whether it means watching a comedy, watching silly videos on YouTube, hanging out with your funniest friend more, or catching a comedy show. Though it may sound silly to “force” yourself to laugh, this will help you take any challenges with a grain of salt and to be able to stand back and laugh at your foibles instead of feeling tense whenever something goes wrong. See if you need to make a major life change to really loosen up. Maybe your job is sucking all of the life out of you. Maybe your three best friends are neurotic basket cases who have turned you into a complete worrywart for no reason. Maybe you've spent way too much effort doing exactly what your parents expect you to do and feel like you have no wiggle room to do what you really want to do. If changing your attitude and making a series of small changes just isn't working for you, then you may have to stop and think about any big changes that may be necessary to your future happiness. Make a list of all of the things that are leading you to be stressed and unhappy. If you notice a pattern and see that most of them are coming from one source, then it may be time to make a big move. This may be scary, but in the end, you'll be a happier person because of it!
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Accept that you can't control everything. Let go of unrealistic standards. Be comfortable with making mistakes. Learn to let things slide. Have a realistic idea of what to expect in certain situations. Don't take yourself too seriously. See the situation from another person's perspective. Have some brainless fun. Learn to take a joke. Break some rules. Take a break. Get some rest. Go outside. Hang out with relaxed people. Declutter your life. Exercise. Get a massage. Do yoga. Dance. Meditate. Drink a cup of tea or coffee. Laugh more. See if you need to make a major life change to really loosen up.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Diarrhea-and-Constipation-in-Dogs-and-Cats
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How to Treat Diarrhea and Constipation in Dogs and Cats
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To treat diarrhea in dogs and cats, feed your pet bland foods, like boiled chicken breasts and white rice, until its diarrhea subsides. You should also make sure your pet has access to fresh water at all times so it doesn't become dehydrated. Also, avoid overexerting your pet since it needs rest to feel better. If your pet is also vomiting, having bloody stools, running a fever, or not feeling better after 48 hours, take it to see a vet as soon as possible.
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Treat diarrhea at home only if your pet appears normal otherwise. Usually, diarrhea is not a medical emergency. Your pet may have eaten something that did not sit right with it. Monitor your pet's behavior. If it seems normal otherwise, you can proceed to treat the diarrhea at home. If your dog or cat has normal energy and appetite, and is not vomiting, you can probably watch and wait. You should also examine the stool. If the diarrhea does not contain any foreign objects or blood, it's probably safe to treat at home for the time being. If you're worried and unsure about whether or not your pet needs veterinary care, contact your vet. Encourage rest. You do not want a sick pet to overexert itself. Try to get your dog or cat to rest as symptoms persist. Avoid excessive exercise, like walking or running, while your pet is sick. If your pet tends to like lying on the couch with you, try to spend a night on the couch. This may encourage your pet to lie down and rest instead of running and playing. You may want to put down a cover, however, in case of an accident. Offer bland foods. It may help to offer bland foods to your pet as symptoms persist. Boiled chicken breasts mixed with white rice can be a good alternative dinner option. There's a slim chance your pet's regular food upset its stomach, so trying something different can help. Make sure not to season chicken or rice. Cats may not eat rice. In this case, just offer them chicken. Provide your pet with water. Diarrhea can cause dehydration, so make sure water is present for the duration of your pet's illness. Make sure your pet has access to a bowl of water at all times. Some pets may not want to drink water if they're not feeling well. Try adding a bit of chicken broth to the water to entice them to drink it. Do not give your pet over-the-counter medication for humans. Things like Pepto-Bismol can be potentially harmful or toxic to a cat or a dog. Not only that, they may do more harm than good depending on the cause of the diarrhea. Diarrhea cased by a toxin in the gut, for example, clears an animal's stomach of harmful bacteria. You do not want to give your pet something that prevents this process from occurring. Understand veterinary care may be necessary. Unlike diarrhea, there are few home treatment options for constipation. If constipation is caused by a mild issue, like a dietary change, it may clear up on its own. Therefore, the best method for at-home treatment is to watch and wait. If the constipation does not clear up within a day or two, you should take your pet to the vet's for evaluation. Keep an eye on your pet's bowel movements for 24 to 48 hours. If constipation lasts longer than a day or two, you may need to see a vet. Keep track of bowel movements over the next two days to see if symptoms clear up or improve. For cats, you can monitor bowel movements via the litter box. Make sure to change the litter each day and watch for fresh stools. Cats should have at least one bowel movement per day. Any less than that may indicate the constipation is serious. You should also be careful of mistaking straining, which could be due to a urinary bladder blockage, with constipation. A urinary bladder blockage is life threatening for your cat. Make sure that there are still wet clumps from urine in your litter box. If your cat is straining and the litter box is dry, then you should contact your vet immediately to check your cat for this condition. Watch for other symptoms of constipation. If your pet is constipated, look out for other symptoms. Constipation is a symptom, and not a condition itself. Knowing the other symptoms will help you figure out the potential cause of your pet's constipation. A constipated animal may be lethargic, dehydrated, and reluctant to eat. A constipated animal may also vomit and not want to drink water. They are sometimes described as having a "hunched up" appearance. Call your vet right away in certain circumstances. For the most part, diarrhea and constipation should be monitored for 1-2 days at home before veterinary assistance is necessary. However, under certain conditions, you should talk to your vet right away. Blood in the stool requires immediate evaluation. Bloody stools will be black and tarry in appearance. If you think your pet got into something toxic, take it to the vet right away. Pale gums and a fever accompanying diarrhea should be evaluated right away. Diarrhea accompanied by vomiting should be evaluated. If you have a young kitten who has not yet been vaccinated, have a vet evaluate things like diarrhea. Go to the vet if your pet is straining repeatedly. Have your pet evaluated if your pet has severe diarrhea and is losing a lot of liquid as a result. If the diarrhea lasts longer than 24-48 hours, take your pet to the vet. Have your pet undergo a physical exam. Usually, your vet will conduct a brief physical exam of your pet. He or she will listen to your pet's heart beat and breathing and examine them for any obvious signs of injury or sickness. Discuss your pet's medical history with your vet. From here, your vet will ask for a brief medical history. You should include any unusual behaviors you've noticed previously. Diarrhea and constipation can sometimes be caused by underlying conditions, and a full medical history can help a vet determine which tests are necessary. If your pet was recently exposed to wildlife, or if it ate something unusual, mention this here. Also, tell your vet about any medications your pet is taking. Some medications may cause diarrhea or constipation as a side effect. Talk to your vet about treatment for diarrhea. There are many different ways to treat diarrhea, if your vet determines medical treatment is necessary. Go over a potential treatment plan with your vet to make sure you understand how to properly correct the issue. Parasites can sometimes cause a problem with diarrhea, so your vet may recommend medication to correct this. If diarrhea is severe, your pet may need to stay overnight to receive intravenous liquids to correct or prevent dehydration. Other medications may be used to calm the gastrointestinal tract. Not all cases of vomiting and diarrhea can be treated easily. If your pet is diagnosed with a lifelong condition, like diabetes, you will have to have a long talk to your vet about longterm treatment. Discuss constipation with your vet. It's a good idea to have constipation evaluated as well if it does not clear up on its own within a few days. You can talk to your vet about how to properly treat the issue. Stimulants or laxatives are frequently used to treat mild constipation. Severe constipation can be more of a problem. Surgery or dietary changes may be necessary to treat an intestinal blockage or other issue. Avoid feeding cats dairy. Many cats do not have the enzymes necessary to digest dairy products. While cats enjoy the taste of cream and milk, you may want to offer other types of foods as a reward instead. This will make your cat less prone to outbreaks of diarrhea. Maintain a clean litter box. For cats, constipation may be caused by litter box issues. Cats do not like using a messy litter box, and may hold in stools if their box is dirty. Be sure to clean your litter box every day to prevent constipation. Introduce new food gradually. If you're changing up an animal's food, do so gradually. Sudden changes in diet can cause diarrhea or constipation. At first, feed your pet half of its new food and half of its hold food. Gradually increase the amount of the old food until your pet is comfortably eating the new food.
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Treat diarrhea at home only if your pet appears normal otherwise. Encourage rest. Offer bland foods. Provide your pet with water. Do not give your pet over-the-counter medication for humans. Understand veterinary care may be necessary. Keep an eye on your pet's bowel movements for 24 to 48 hours. Watch for other symptoms of constipation. Call your vet right away in certain circumstances. Have your pet undergo a physical exam. Discuss your pet's medical history with your vet. Talk to your vet about treatment for diarrhea. Discuss constipation with your vet. Avoid feeding cats dairy. Maintain a clean litter box. Introduce new food gradually.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-to-Dance-Hip-Hop
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How to Learn to Dance Hip Hop
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To learn to dance hip hop, search the internet for “hip-hop dancing step-by-step,” or “hip-hop dance routines for beginners.” Additionally, you can watch free dance videos online or take an online hip-hop class. If you live in a more metropolitan area, you can attend hip-hop performances. You can also go to clubs to either practice your moves or to watch others dance. If possible, though, the best way to learn hip hop is to attend classes in person.
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Start with the kick ball change. This is a basic move where you stay basically in one place. Take your right foot and kick it in front of the left. Then you're going to cross it over to the left side of your left foot. Then your left foot is going to step back and to the left. Repeat with the left foot, kicking it in front of the right foot, stepping it to the right side, and then stepping back and to the right with the right foot. After you practice this a few times, try bouncing your shoulders to the beat. After you get the hang of that, do it twice as fast, or “double time”. Walk it out for seven steps, or four beats. This is a simple move that will give you a bit more dynamism by bringing you forward. Each step is half a beat. If you count it out, this will be “one-and-two-and-three-and-four”, with each one of these counts being a step. You do not step on the “and” of four, making it seven steps altogether. Bend your knees out and to the side. Take a small step forward with your knees bent, taking your hips with you to the forward step. Repeat it with alternating legs up until the fourth beat. After you have practiced walking it out with your legs, add your arms. Your arms should be bent at the elbow, with your fist facing out. Put your fingers in a loose “snapping” formation, with your thumb raised. When you step with your right leg, your right arm should move forward and your elbow should move in towards your torso. When you step left, your right arm should move back with the elbow pointed away from you. The same goes for your left arm with your left leg. Dougie. This is a popular move that looks deceptively simple. Get the step down before adding arm movements. Step to the left with your left foot, dragging your right foot with it. Turn your right foot slightly inward and then put the ball of your foot on the ground. While doing this, bend your knees into a dip. Bring your right foot to the right, but keep it turned left. While doing this, unbend your knees and let your body follow your right foot. Quickly move your body through the center and to the left. Bring your left foot to the right. Dip your knees. Step your left foot back to the left and unbend your knees. Find a class near you. This is as simple as just googling “Find hip-hop classes near me”. If you've heard people talking about their hip-hop classes, bring it up to them and ask where they got their start. Attend class faithfully. Once you've committed to going to a class, don't slack off. Will power must be exercised like any other muscle. It might help to reach out to the other members of your class. This way, if you ever miss class or don't feel like going, they will be there to support you. Practice on your own. Just going to class won't be enough to make you an extraordinary dancer. Build your confidence by practicing your moves over and over again in the mirror. If your classes only happen weekly, it's totally possible to forget everything that happened in the previous week. To prevent this, you should write down what you learned when you get home after class. Throughout the week, look back at your notes and practice in the mirror. Bring your moves to the club. Share your new dancing skills with the world at large! Even if it pushes you out of your comfort zone, the point of dancing is that it's a fun shared activity. Force yourself to show off everything you worked so hard for. Maybe your class ends in a performance. This a good time to force you a little out of your comfort zone. After your performance, don't treat your learning process like it's over, though! Keep going out and dancing. Use the internet. There's an entire world of free hip-hop dance videos online. There are even hip-hop dance classes for free online. It will help to make your searches as specific as possible. Don't just search “hip-hop dancing”. This is too broad and you will get too many results. Instead, search “hip-hop dancing step-by-step” or “hip-hop dance routines for beginners”. If there is a specific style of music that you want to dance to, include that in your search. Remember, hip-hop is used almost as a blanket term these days, so if you have something in mind, you will have to search a little longer for it. Attend clubs or hip hop performances. Use the internet and word of mouth to find out where people are dancing. You don't necessarily have to dance at these events, just observe what people are doing so that you can feel confident in the future. This is the best way to figure out how to dress, how many friends to bring, and how to dance with and around strangers. If you see a style that you really like, don't be afraid to approach someone between songs and ask them quickly how they learned to dance so well. Apply the knowledge you’ve gained. If you see a certain style, learn to mimic it. Try to figure out what it is called if you don't know it. Learn to dress the part and feel good about yourself. A lot of dancing is simply feeling good in your own skin, and one of the best ways to do that is to mimic somebody who already feels confident. Don't copy what they wear or how they talk-- copy their self-love and confidence in their own body. Gather friends who you know are interested. If you and your friends share the same taste in music, this shouldn't be too hard. Maybe you also know someone who has taken a class in the past who can give you some tips. You can also ask around, post a facebook or twitter status, or gather friends who you know are up for anything. You should never be too forceful with your friends. If they are too uncomfortable, no one will have any fun. This might mean that you aren't dancing with your closest friends, but rather your friends who are the most up for dancing. That's okay! You can have more than one type of friend. Pool your knowledge. If you or one of your friends has previous experience with dancing, this can be very valuable to the group. The best thing about doing things in a group is that you suddenly have the knowledge of multiple people. Decide on a style. There are multiple ways to dance in a group, so decide on the one that best fits the group that you have. There plenty of group routines that you can copy just by watching videos. If you want to do something more formal, like a performance, this would be the way to go. Maybe you just want to dance as a group in a club. In that case, it would be better for you all to learn hip hop moves or solo routines, so that you can switch off. There are plenty of youtube videos for individual moves that you can learn together. Take the clubs by storm! You don't have to wait until everybody is 100% confident in him or herself. That's the beauty of working in a group! You always have everyone's support and the knowledge that everyone you are with wants to dance with you too.
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Start with the kick ball change. Walk it out for seven steps, or four beats. Dougie. Find a class near you. Attend class faithfully. Practice on your own. Bring your moves to the club. Use the internet. Attend clubs or hip hop performances. Apply the knowledge you’ve gained. Gather friends who you know are interested. Pool your knowledge. Decide on a style. Take the clubs by storm!
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https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Determined
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How to Be Determined
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To be a determined person, start by setting specific goals to help you work towards something you want. Then, set realistic but challenging deadlines, like giving yourself 1 year to save up money for a vacation. In order to stay determined, visualize yourself accomplishing your goal, with specific details like images, sounds, and smells. Alternatively, try making a vision board by pasting images and quotes related to your goal on a poster board. Then, keep your board in a place where you'll see it often to help you stay motivated.
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Complete the best possible future self exercise. It's hard to be determined when you don't know what you're working towards or how to even recognize when you've gotten there. Figure out what success means to you and you'll be better equipped to persevere towards your goals. The best possible future self exercise can help you do that. Spend about 15 minutes writing in great detail about what you'd like your future life to be like (1, 5, or 10 years into the future). Consider various areas of life, such as your career, relationship, health, passions, etc. What would each of these areas be like in your best possible future? Try not to filter yourself or allow negative, competing thoughts to affect what you write. It doesn't matter if this future seems improbable now—just write about it creatively as if it could happen. Create a few specific goals. Develop clear goals geared towards reaching the success you imagined in the best possible future self exercise. Start with just a few that address different areas of your life. Get as specific as you can with your goals. For instance, you wouldn't say “I want more money” and leave it at that. You might set a specific goal to complete a certification course so that you will be eligible for a managerial position at your job. Similarly, you wouldn't say “I want to go to Hawaii.” You might set a clear goal to save $10,000 for a family vacation in Hawaii. You might create separate goals for different areas, including finances, health, career, relationship, and personal development. However, different goals may overlap. In the above example, being more specific about the financial goal (“I want more money”) uncovered a career goal. Focusing on a few goals at a time will help you stay focused and determined. If you focus on too much at once, you'll get overwhelmed, which will make determination harder to maintain. Break your goals down. After you've clarified a few specific goals, divide these goals down into smaller, more manageable steps. You'll feel more determined to stick with your goals, if you know what's expected along the way. For example, if you set a goal to publish a novel, smaller steps may include writing the book itself (which also must be broken down into various steps), editing it, learning about the publishing industry, figuring out which literary agents to send it to, writing a synopsis and cover letter, and sending it off to the different agents and publishers. You might divide it up so that you're focused on one step at a time. Then, each individual step may take some evaluating to determine if you have the resources to accomplish it. For instance, professional editing may be costly and require that you save money first. For example, if your goal is to publish a book, focus on outlining the book first, then drafting the book before you think about the publication process. Set challenging deadlines. Creating a time-frame to accomplish your goals is a powerful way to stay determined. Set a far out date for the overall goal (e.g., “Save $10,000”) as well as creating shorter time-frames for the individual steps required to reach that goal. For instance, you might give yourself a year to save the money. However, after breaking the goal down, you might aim to save $2,500 within the next three months. Your deadlines should be feasible yet challenging. If you allow too much time to reach the goal, there's a greater chance of you losing focus. Prioritize your goals. If you truly want to remain steadfast in reaching your goals, you must be willing to put them before other less important aspects of life. This doesn't mean you'll be working 24 hours a day towards your goals, but it does mean you should always carve out time for them. Prioritizing means instead of just making a vague commitment to work on your novel each day, you will set aside a specific window of time. Say, "I'm going to write from 6:00 am to 8:00 am every morning." You have put your goal first, which means no matter what happens from 8am onward, you will have dedicated some time towards working on your goal that day. Look for gaps that prevent goal-attainment. Regularly review your future self and look for discrepancies based on your current life. What habits or behaviors are getting in the way of you becoming that future self? These gaps are where you'll want to focus in your goal-setting. For example, if you'd like to save $10,000, but you eat out every day, you will need to change your spending habits to save the money. You might save more, faster by limiting restaurant meals and cooking at home. Eliminate negative thinking. This is a hugely important part of being determined and achieving your goals. Negative thinking will lower your resolve and even cause you to give up on your goals. Positivity, on the other hand, allows you to persevere. Learn to identify the negative language you use on yourself and situations. For example, if you find yourself thinking "I'm so weak I can't even do one push-up," change that thought. Instead, think more positively by reframing that thought to something like, "I have trouble doing push-ups now, but if I stick with my routine, I will gradually be able to do them." Play to your strengths. Often, when you get feedback or work on improving yourself, you focus on the things that need to be improved. This is a good strategy, but you should also figure out your strengths and use those to help you stay determined to achieve your goals. Have friends/coworkers/family/teachers give you examples of times when you excelled (when you used your strengths). Recognize common themes throughout the examples that portray your character strengths. For example, if people choose examples of times when you were really resourceful, you might leverage your resourcefulness to help you reach your goals (e.g., researching the best savings account interest rates to help you save the $10,000). Build your self-confidence. Confidence is the ability to believe in yourself, no matter how bad things are looking. Self-confident people experience a hurdle and believe that they can overcome it. This, in a nutshell, is determination. Determination is seeing a roadblock and believing that you can get past it, not necessarily because you have evidence that you've done so in the past, but because you believe in your abilities. To portray confidence on the outside, walk tall, lift your chin and stand in a power pose (hands on hips). The more you practice acting self-confident, the more you'll trick your brain into believing that you are. To feel confident on the inside, stop comparing yourself to other people. Comparisons zap your self-esteem. Drop the comparisons by wearing a rubber band on your wrist and snapping it against your skin each time you catch yourself comparing. Practice flexibility. Flexibility is the art of being open to change. Just as a person doing yoga bends without breaking, neither should you in the face of challenges. The course you're currently traveling will likely diverge at some point. Your goals may change and the methods you use to reach them will, too. One of the best ways to stay flexible is by trying new things. Getting outside of your comfort zone helps keep you flexible, so make a list of activities or experiences you haven't tried and start ticking them off. Switching up your routine also builds flexibility. Instead of driving home from work or school, take the bus or ride your bike. Also, take a completely new route, or do something spontaneous, such as stopping for an ice cream cone or browsing a few shops. Make healthy choices. It's much easier to be determined about your goals when your body is sustained by good fuel, enough sleep, and a good amount of exercise. All these things can help fend off issues like stress and anxiety that make it much harder to maintain determination. Try to get at least 8 hours of sleep each night, with as many of those hours before midnight as possible. To help your body get into sleep mode more quickly, turn off your electronic devices (like computer, phone, iPad) at least 30 minutes before you go to bed. Eat lots of veggies and fruits (especially the dark green and colorful ones, which have more nutrients). Avoid eating lots of sugars and salty or processed foods, which can make you feel sluggish or depressed. Go for good carbohydrates like brown rice, oatmeal, and sprouted wheat. Get enough protein by choosing eggs, fish, lean meats, etc. Exercise for 30 minutes every day. Exercising releases good chemicals like endorphins, which can give you more energy and make you feel happier. Exercise can be anything from putting on a music playlist and having a dance party to going for a long run. Learn from obstacles. People who use their determination do not use the term "failure." Obstacles will appear on your path no matter how prepared you are. In most cases, obstacles and "failures" are actually opportunities. Re-frame the problem by considering the “why?” For example, if you're asked to build a bridge across a river and you ask why you need to build a bridge, questioning why a bridge can help open up further possibilities (why do you need to cross the river? what kind of materials are available, etc.). Asking these questions will open up a realm of possibilities. Another method is to ask yourself what you've learned from a supposed "failure." What would you do differently next time? What factors combined to cause the "failure" to happen? Was failing really as bad as you feared? Find creative solutions. Thinking outside the box will greatly help you stay on track and accomplish your goals. This is especially important when you do hit an obstacle, because creative solutions can often provide you with an avenue that you might not otherwise have considered. Daydreaming is actually an incredibly useful tool. When you're confronted with a problem, take some time to daydream and let your mind free to consider the problem without restrictions. A good time to practice a little daydreaming is right before you go to bed at night, but you can do it any time. Ask yourself some questions to open up your creative problem-solving: if you have any resources in the world, how would you approach the problem? If there were no possibility of failure, what would you try? If you didn't have to worry about budget, what resources would you use? If you could ask anyone for help, who would you ask? Use visualization. Although it sounds a bit weird, visualization is actually a really powerful technique for boosting your determination. Practice visualizing yourself accomplishing the goals that you are working towards. The more clearly you visualize your goals (with images, sounds, smells, and specific details) the more likely you are to actually accomplish them. For instance, to visualize a promotion on your job, you might imagine seeing a larger office space, hearing "congratulations" from your co-workers and supervisors, and having more money to take your family on vacation. Create a vision board. A vision board is a tangible way to envision your goals. By assembling a variety of images and knick-knacks that bring life to your goals, you can look at them regularly and regain determination to keep moving forward. Look through magazines, newspapers, and the internet to find images, words, and inspirational items that speak to you. Make sure you include items that represent goals from different areas of your life, such as health, relationships, and career. After assembling your board, place it somewhere you can see it regularly. Looking through the items you place on your board is like a mini visualization session! Reward yourself. Celebrate your progress by periodically rewarding yourself. Rewards don't have to be big or ostentatious—unless you want them to! The point is to take time to pat yourself on the back for steadily moving towards your goals. For example, each time you complete a smaller step towards a big goal, you might treat yourself to a movie night or lunch at your favorite restaurant. Rewarding yourself keeps you on the desired path and sustains your determination to reach your goals. However, your reward shouldn't set you back on goal progress. If you're trying to lose weight, you probably shouldn't reward yourself with food. If you're saving money, you probably shouldn't reward yourself by spending a large portion of your savings (unless the purchase is a part of the goal). Keep track of the progress you are making as you work towards your goals as well. This may help you to stay motivated. Take breaks to re-energize. Sometimes you may notice yourself losing the determination you once had to reach your goals. If this happens, don't trash your goals, just take a break! Taking a break doesn't mean that you are no longer determined, it simply means that you're giving yourself the chance to rest and return with more energy to work hard towards your goals. A break can be big or small, depending on your current state of mind. If working towards your goals has caused a great deal of frustration or stress, it may be nice to take a weekend off to relax or even plan a mini getaway. For a smaller, shorter break, take an afternoon off to hang out with a friend or pursue a favorite hobby.
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Complete the best possible future self exercise. Create a few specific goals. Break your goals down. Set challenging deadlines. Prioritize your goals. Look for gaps that prevent goal-attainment. Eliminate negative thinking. Play to your strengths. Build your self-confidence. Practice flexibility. Make healthy choices. Learn from obstacles. Find creative solutions. Use visualization. Create a vision board. Reward yourself. Take breaks to re-energize.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Hair-Loss-Naturally
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How to Stop Hair Loss: Do Natural Treatments Work?
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If you're already eating a balanced diet of vegetables and protein-rich foods, one additional way to stop hair loss naturally is to take supplements like Vitamin B or saw palmetto. You can also try doing an avocado hair mask or massaging your scalp with essential oils like lavender oil or peppermint oil. Make sure you're using a sulfate-free shampoo, and try washing your hair every other day to preserve hair health.
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Follow the Mediterranean diet to lower your risk for alopecia. Alopecia is a general term for many types of hair loss, and it can make hair fall out on different spots around your body. You've probably heard that the Mediterranean diet can help with all kinds of health problems, and you can add hair loss to that list. Particularly, the raw vegetables and fresh herbs in that diet can prevent alopecia from starting. Try switching over to a Mediterranean diet rich in vegetables and herbs to see if this helps treat your hair loss. The Mediterranean diet also includes lean proteins, fish, healthy oils, and fruits while cutting out fatty and processed foods. Eat at least 1,200-1,500 calories per day. Even if you're getting the right nutrients, your hair could stop growing if you don't eat enough calories each day. If you follow a restricted diet and your hair starts thinning, this could be the reason. In general, always eat 1,200-1,500 calories daily so your hair has enough energy to grow correctly. If you have trouble tracking your calories, there are plenty of apps that can help. Get plenty of vitamins from your regular diet. Vitamin A, B, D, and E all help your hair grow and deficiencies could cause hair loss. Make sure you have plenty of vitamin-rich foods in your diet to prevent any deficiencies. Some of the best vitamin sources include citrus fruits, peppers, leafy green vegetables, dairy, eggs, and whole grains. You can also get vitamin B and D from fish and meat. Protect your hair with selenium. Selenium is another nutrient that helps protect your hair and could prevent it from falling out. The recommended daily selenium dose is 55 mcg, so try to get all you can from your normal diet. You can get selenium from meat, nuts, and vegetables. Most people get plenty of selenium as long as they follow a healthy diet. Eating too much selenium could be toxic, so doctors don't recommend selenium supplements. Include iron-rich foods in your diet. The exact relationship between iron and hair growth isn't well-known. However, many people with hair loss do also have iron deficiencies, so it could play a role. Make sure you eat plenty of iron-rich foods to prevent any problems. Adult men need about 8 mg and women need 18 mg of iron per day. You can get this from red meat and poultry, fish, beans, lentils, leafy green vegetables, and nuts. Get enough zinc. A zinc deficiency could also cause alopecia, so make sure you get enough from your regular diet. The recommended amount is 8-11 mg per day, which you can get from seafood and oysters, red meat, beans, nuts, and fortified cereals. You could also take zinc supplements to fix a deficiency. Ask your doctor before taking any supplements to make sure you take the right amount. Take vitamin supplements if you don’t get enough from your regular diet. While most people get enough vitamins from their diet, not everyone does. If you have deficiencies of vitamin A, B, D, or E and aren't getting enough from your diet, then supplements may help strengthen your hair. Always ask your doctor before taking any supplements because they'll probably only work if you have nutrient deficiencies. In some cases, getting too much of certain nutrients can actually cause hair loss too. Try a saw palmetto supplement. Strong evidence is lacking, but there is some evidence that this herb could help support hair growth. You can try this for yourself to see if it helps. Fight alopecia with a biotin supplement. Biotin is a B vitamin that supports nail and hair growth. It's a common ingredient in natural remedies for hair loss, and might help fight alopecia. Try a vitamin blend containing 3 mg of biotin, 30 mg of zinc, 200 mg of vitamin C, and less than 1 mg of folic acid to see if this helps. You can also get biotin naturally from foods that are high in vitamin B like fish, poultry, eggs, nuts, seeds, and vegetables. Take ginseng extract to see if this works. This one has mixed results, but some studies show that ginseng can stimulate hair growth in mice and other animals. Ginseng is safe to try, so you can see if it works for you. Common ginseng extract doses range from 100 to 800 mg, so always follow dosing instructions on the product you use. Massage essential oils into your scalp. You can add hair loss to the list of problems that essential oils might be able to treat. One study showed that thyme, rosemary, lavender, and cedarwood massaged into the scalp daily can help improve alopecia. Remember to mix the oil with a carrier oil like jojoba or olive to avoid irritation. Regular scalp massage for about 4 minutes a day, even without essential oils, could also help stimulate hair growth. Don't use unverified home remedies on your hair. If you search around the internet, you'll probably come across all kinds of home remedies to grow hair like onion juice or coconut oil. Unfortunately, there's no evidence that these remedies work, and some might even damage your scalp more. It's best to skip these and stick with recommended treatments instead. If you need more guidance, talk to a dermatologist. Wash and condition your hair with gentle products. Using harsh products in your hair can make hair loss worse. Always use a gentle shampoo that won't strip moisture from your hair, and finish up with a moisturizing conditioner to protect your hair. Also scrub your hair gently while you're washing it. Pulling on it can put more stress on your roots. You can also use a leave-in conditioner to reduce breaking and split ends. Wear a loose hairstyle that doesn’t pull on your hair. You might not think your hairstyle has anything to do with hair loss, but it has more of an impact than you might think. One particular type of hair loss, traction alopecia, can come specifically from tight hairstyles that break off strands. Avoid this by wearing your hair down or in a loose style that doesn't stress your roots. You can pull your hair back once in a while. The important thing is to avoid wearing your hair like that every day. Some hairstyles to avoid include cornrows, tight buns, dreadlocks, or tight braids. Also avoid pulling on your hair as a habit. This could damage it as well. Avoid using chemicals or high heat on your hair. Dying and other chemical treatments can damage your hair, as can high heat from blow-drying or curling. Avoid these treatments as much as possible to avoid making hair loss worse. You can blow-dry your hair once in a while, but not every day. If you do, use the low heat setting. Try drying your hair with a towel instead. Quit smoking to protect your hair. There is a clear link between smoking and hair loss. If you do smoke, then it's best to quit as soon as possible. If you don't, then don't start at all.
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Follow the Mediterranean diet to lower your risk for alopecia. Eat at least 1,200-1,500 calories per day. Get plenty of vitamins from your regular diet. Protect your hair with selenium. Include iron-rich foods in your diet. Get enough zinc. Take vitamin supplements if you don’t get enough from your regular diet. Try a saw palmetto supplement. Fight alopecia with a biotin supplement. Take ginseng extract to see if this works. Massage essential oils into your scalp. Don't use unverified home remedies on your hair. Wash and condition your hair with gentle products. Wear a loose hairstyle that doesn’t pull on your hair. Avoid using chemicals or high heat on your hair. Quit smoking to protect your hair.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Scream-Sing-without-Damaging-Your-Voice
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How to Scream Sing without Damaging Your Voice
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If you're learning to scream sing, it's very important to do it properly so you don't damage your voice. Breathe from your diaphragm so that your stomach expands and not your chest. This will help you get the right sound and protect your voice. Don't scream too loudly, especially at first. Use a microphone to amplify your voice if you need to. You should also warm up your voice before screaming with various singing exercises. Make sure you drink water in between screaming to keep your throat hydrated. If it gets scratchy or irritated, let your voice rest until it feels better before screaming again.
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Breathe from your diaphragm, not your chest. Your diaphragm is the muscle located below your lungs. When you take in a deep breath to scream sing, you should feel the breath fill up your diaphragm around your stomach area. If you feel your chest lift up a lot when you take in a breath, you're breathing from your chest and not your diaphragm. Breathing properly while you sing will prevent unnecessary wear on your vocal cords. Layer your screams over the notes you sing. Remember that you still want to be singing in tune when you're scream singing. You're not just screaming the words of a song; you're singing the words and adding screams to your singing. Think of it as two layers: the first layer is your regular singing voice, and the second layer is your screaming voice. Combine the two layers to create the scream-singing sound. Practice layering your screams over your singing voice by singing normally and gradually transitioning into scream singing. Choose a note and sing it in your regular voice. After holding the note for a few seconds, start to layer a scream over the note until you're scream singing the note. Identify the vocal placement for high and low screams. These different types of screams come from various places in the body. Similar to regular singing, high note screams come from the nasal cavity, and low note screams come from the chest. Listen to a song that has scream singing in it and try to copy the placement of each scream. Don't actually make the full screaming noise. Just do a soft whisper scream so you can feel where each type of scream should be coming from in the body. The song "Painkiller" by Death features scream singing in the high vocal range. Listen to "Feed the Machine" by Red to hear low note screams coming from the chest region. Scream sing using vocal fry. Vocal fry is the creaky, low-pitched way that some people speak. Open your mouth and slowly let out a low "ah." Don't project your voice or breathe out as you're doing it. The cracking effect you hear in your voice is vocal fry. Singing using vocal fry can create a distorted, screaming-like effect that won't hurt your voice. Practice singing vocal fry by choosing a song you like and singing the words with vocal fry. Notice how the words sound raspier. As you practice, try going louder with your vocal fry so it sounds like a scream. Matt Shadows of the band Avenged Sevenfold uses vocal fry to scream sing. Listen to the song "Critical Acclaim" to hear him using vocal fry. Vocal fry is generated from the ventricular folds, which are not the same as the vocal folds. Warm up your voice before you scream sing. Warm-ups will better prepare your voice for scream singing so it's not as vulnerable to damage. Try to do a few different singing warm-ups before every practice session or performance. Start your warm up with a simple lip buzz. Close your lips and then vibrate them so they're rapidly hitting against each other. Hold your pitch for a few seconds and then go up or down a pitch. Keep vibrating your lips and trying different pitches. You can also warm up by singing “mah-may-me-mo-moo.” Using one note, sing “mah-may-me-mo-moo” slowly but all in one breath. Once you finish, sing it again, this time going one note higher. Continue until you've gone all the way up the scale. Sometimes, your voice might seem like it's not warmed up, but you're actually struggling because of something unrelated to your voice (like being nervous about singing in front of a teacher that makes you feel insecure.) In that case, you should focus more on resolving the emotions that are interfering with your voice rather than just trying to focus on technique. Scream sing into a microphone to conserve your voice. Scream singing can place a lot of strain on your vocal cords, especially if you're trying to project your voice. Use a microphone whenever you're performing (or practicing if you want to sing loudly) so you don't need to project your voice as far. Be careful not to scream sing too loudly into a microphone. You don't want to damage listeners' ears. Drink water during breaks from singing. Whether you're practicing or performing, it's important that you keep your vocal cords hydrated when you're scream singing. If you're performing, bring a bottle of water on stage with you and take a few sips after each song. Let your voice rest if your throat is irritated. Even when you're using proper technique, scream singing can wear out your voice. Continuing to sing with aching or damaged vocal cords will only make the problem worse. Listen to your body and take a break so your voice has time to heal. Drink lots of water every day to keep your vocal cords hydrated. Try to drink 6-8 glasses of water a day. You can also drink warm tea with honey to help soothe your vocal cords if they feel irritated. Cut back on alcohol and caffeine. Alcohol and caffeine dry out your larynx and vocal folds, making your voice more susceptible to damage when you sing. If you know you have a performance coming up (or you're going to be practicing a lot) try to limit your alcohol and caffeine intake during the days leading up to it. Don’t smoke. Smoking and inhaling second-hand smoke can damage your vocal folds by causing irritation. Combining smoking with scream singing will make your voice more susceptible to damage. Try to exercise frequently. While it may not seem like exercising would have anything to do with your voice, regular exercise can improve your stamina and breathing capacity, which will help you speak and sing better. Try to fit some cardio into your routine a few days out of the week. Use a humidifier if you live in a cold or dry climate. A humidifier will work to keep your throat hydrated so your vocal cords don't get too dry. Turn your humidifier on before you go to sleep every night. Try to keep your living space at around 30 percent humidity.
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Breathe from your diaphragm, not your chest. Layer your screams over the notes you sing. Identify the vocal placement for high and low screams. Scream sing using vocal fry. Warm up your voice before you scream sing. Scream sing into a microphone to conserve your voice. Drink water during breaks from singing. Let your voice rest if your throat is irritated. Drink lots of water every day to keep your vocal cords hydrated. Cut back on alcohol and caffeine. Don’t smoke. Try to exercise frequently. Use a humidifier if you live in a cold or dry climate.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Feed-Butterflies
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How to Feed Butterflies
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To feed butterflies, make your own nectar by mixing 1 part sugar with 4 parts warm water. Then, put the nectar outside in a bottle cap or butterfly feeder so butterflies can eat it. Alternatively, you can place some rotting fruit outside, like strawberries, apples, or bananas. You can also buy canned nectar from the store to feed butterflies. Or, you can plant flowers, like milkweed, zinnias, and marigolds, so the butterflies in your yard always have access to fresh nectar.
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Provide flower nectar for butterflies in nature. Naturally, butterflies survive by consuming the nectar provided by different types of flowers. The best kind of food you can give them is this nectar. Milkweed , zinnias, and marigolds are popular with butterflies -- try planting these in your yard to attract and feed butterflies. Use canned fruit nectar as an alternative to flower nectar. If you don't want to grow and take care of flowers, purchase some canned fruit nectar instead. To successfully serve canned fruit nectar, pour some into a plastic bottle cap or saturate a tissue in it and set it out in a butterfly feeder, on a porch railing, or somewhere similar. Give butterflies sugar water if you don't have any nectar. This acts as makeshift nectar. Mix 1 part white cane table sugar with 4 parts warm water until the sugar dissolves completely. This should provide nutrition and energy for your butterflies so that they can thrive. White cane table sugar provides the best nutrients for butterflies and also dissolves easily, compared to other forms of sugar. Feed butterflies rotting fruit as an alternative. Slice up some fruit that's going bad to give to your butterflies. They especially like to eat rotting grapefruits, oranges, strawberries, peaches, nectarines, apples, and bananas. Add a little bit of water or fruit juice to your sliced fruit to keep it desirably moist. Make a butterfly feeder. The best way to feed butterflies in nature is to buy or create some sort of butterfly feeder. You can do this is several different ways, whether you want to hang a plastic water bottle full of food from a tree, or set a shallow plate with a base among your garden. Get crafty and make a desirable feeder to draw in as many butterflies as possible. Use Gatorade or fruit juice as an easy solution. The easiest way to feed butterflies in a habitat is with Gatorade or another already-prepared juice drink. As is, Gatorade and fruit juice have the sugar and water needed in order to provide nutrients to your butterflies. Use these for food if you want to be able to feed your butterflies quickly and easily. Make your own creative butterfly food solution to get the best results. If you're willing to put a little more time and effort into your butterfly food to ensure maximum nutrition, make your own food solution. Mix 3 ounces (88.7 ml) of water or Gatorade with 1 teaspoon (4.9 ml) of simple syrup. Then, add in 6 drops of soy sauce. To make your own simple syrup, add 1 cup (240 ml) of sugar to 1 cup (240 ml) of water. Almost bring the mixture to a boil, but remove it from heat just before it starts to boil. Serve liquid food in a small, shallow container for easy access. To make the food appealing to your butterflies, you'll need to serve it in a proper container. The smaller and shallower the container is, the better. Opt for a saucer or bottle lid if possible. Simply fill the dish or container, lower it into the habitat, and close the habitat. You can also use a small cup or a candle votive, but since these options are deeper, make sure to fill the container with marbles for the butterflies to stand on while they eat. Provide skewered fresh fruit when you have several butterfly species. Fruit serves as an adequate food source for all different types of butterflies, so this might be the best option if you have a variety of species in your habitat. Take a skewer or a piece of bamboo and slide chunks of fruit onto it. Then, set it in the habitat. If the fruit won't stay on the skewer, secure a bread twist tie underneath the bottom piece of fruit. Place fruit in the brightest area of the habitat. Butterflies instinctually gravitate towards bright areas, so they'll have an easier time finding the fruit if it's located in a brighter part of their habitat. Place fruit skewers horizontally on the butterflies' habitat floor or set them up vertically in a corner in the brightest part of the habitat. They should be able to find and consume the food themselves. Opt for liquids like warm children's juices, colas, and fruit punches. Children's juices, colas, and fruit punches make for the best first aid treatment for hurt, sick, or young butterflies. Use these as food if possible, and make sure to provide them at room temperature or warmer. Soak a paper towel with the liquid food and place it in a dish. Decide which kind of food that you'd like to go with and then soak up the liquid with a paper towel. This will allow the butterflies to eat the food without getting their feet extremely wet. Pick up each butterfly and set it onto the soaked paper towel. First, make sure your hands are completely dry. When one of your butterflies closes its wings, pinch them together extremely carefully at the tips. Lift the butterfly up and place it onto the paper towel so that it can taste the food on it. Continue doing this with all of your butterflies. If you aren't gentle, you can very easily seriously injure the butterflies by picking them up. It's very important to be careful when handling them. It's necessary to do it this way because butterflies taste with their feet. Lower the butterfly's proboscis with a toothpick if it doesn't do so itself. Once they're placed on the paper towel, the butterflies will likely recognize that food is available and automatically lower their proboscises to consume it. If one of the butterflies doesn't do this, very carefully take a toothpick or a paperclip and lower the butterfly's proboscis towards the food yourself. The butterfly may be resistant at first and try to push the toothpick or paperclip away. Be persistent for a couple of minutes. If the butterfly is still resisting at this point, stop and try again in 1-2 hours. Offer the butterflies food at least once each day. Pick up each butterfly carefully by the tips of its wings and place it onto the food-soaked paper towel at least once a day. If you struggle to get a butterfly to eat, give it a few more chances throughout the day. Even your butterflies who eat willingly may eat at these other opportunities too, as butterflies tend to prefer spaced out feeding times.
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Provide flower nectar for butterflies in nature. Use canned fruit nectar as an alternative to flower nectar. Give butterflies sugar water if you don't have any nectar. Feed butterflies rotting fruit as an alternative. Make a butterfly feeder. Use Gatorade or fruit juice as an easy solution. Make your own creative butterfly food solution to get the best results. Serve liquid food in a small, shallow container for easy access. Provide skewered fresh fruit when you have several butterfly species. Place fruit in the brightest area of the habitat. Opt for liquids like warm children's juices, colas, and fruit punches. Soak a paper towel with the liquid food and place it in a dish. Pick up each butterfly and set it onto the soaked paper towel. Lower the butterfly's proboscis with a toothpick if it doesn't do so itself. Offer the butterflies food at least once each day.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Banana-Pudding
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How to Make Banana Pudding
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To make banana pudding, place cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk in a bowl and beat with a mixer for about 1 minute, scraping the sides of the bowl once or twice. Turn off the mixer and add milk, a package of instant vanilla pudding mix, and vanilla extract, then beat the mixture until it's completely smooth. In a separate bowl, whip heavy cream and sugar until it forms stiff peaks. Fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture, then line a dish with cookies and sliced bananas. Top with the pudding mixture and the rest of the whipped cream.
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Beat the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk for 1 minute. Put 8 ounces (225 g) of cream cheese into a mixing bowl and add a 14-ounce (397 g) can of sweetened condensed milk. Use a stand or hand mixer to beat the mixture on medium-high speed until it's smooth and light. Stop and scrape down the sides of the bowl once or twice. Beat in the pudding mix, milk, and vanilla. Turn off the mixer and pour in 2 cups (470 ml) of milk, 1 5-ounce (144 g) package of instant vanilla pudding mix, and 1 teaspoon (4.9 ml) of vanilla extract. Beat the creamy mixture until it's completely smooth and combined. Don't mix the instant pudding according to the package before adding it to the bowl. Instead, pour the powdered instant pudding directly into the mixing bowl. Whip the cream with the sugar in a separate bowl until peaks form. Get out a large mixing bowl and pour in 3 cups (710 ml) of heavy cream. Add 2 teaspoons (8 g) of granulated sugar and beat the mixture using a whisk attachment. Whisk on high speed for about 2 minutes or until the cream makes stiff peaks. If you prefer, substitute an equal amount of powdered sugar for the granulated sugar. If you can't find heavy cream, you may be able to buy heavy whipping cream which will work. Avoid using half-and-half since it won't whip properly. Fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Spoon half of the sweetened whipped cream into the bowl with the sweetened cream cheese. Use a metal spoon or rubber spatula to slowly fold the whipped cream in. Set aside the remaining whipped cream. Line a dish with cookies and sliced bananas. Open an 11-ounce (311 g) package of vanilla wafer or shortbread cookies. Place a single layer of cookies across the bottom of a 3-quart (2.9 liter) trifle or 9 by 13 inches (23 cm × 33 cm) dish. Then peel 4 bananas and slice the fruit into ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm) rounds. Arrange a layer of banana slices across the cookies. If the bananas are small, you may need 5 or 6. Spread the pudding mixture or alternate with cookies to make a trifle. If you're using the 9 by 13 inches (23 cm × 33 cm) baking dish, spoon all of the pudding onto the cookies and banana slices. Then spread it evenly across the pan. If you're using the trifle dish, spoon 1/3 of the pudding over the cookies and bananas in the bottom. Continue to alternate layering cookies and bananas with the pudding. At this point, you can make and refrigerate the banana pudding for up to 3 hours in advance. Cover the banana pudding with the reserved whipped cream. Once you're ready to serve the banana pudding, spread the rest of the sweetened whipped cream over the top of the pudding. For a homemade-look, just dollop the whipped cream on top of the pudding and don't spread it. Garnish and serve the banana pudding. If you'd like to add more toppings, crush some extra cookies and sprinkle them on top of the whipped cream. You can also slice another banana and place the rounds across the top of the pudding. Slice or spoon the pudding just before serving. Cover the pudding and refrigerate the leftovers for up to 1 day. Keep in mind that the pudding will begin to weep and the bananas will darken. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C) and get out a baking dish. Set a 9 in × 13 in (23 cm × 33 cm) dish aside while you make the pudding and meringue. It's important to use a long, shallow baking dish for this pudding so the meringue can finish cooking. Whisk 1 cup (200 g) of the sugar with flour and salt. Put the sugar in a medium bowl and add ½ cup (71 grams) of all-purpose flour along with ¼ teaspoon (1.5 g) of kosher salt. Whisk the dry ingredients until they're combined. Set the dry ingredients aside while you separate the eggs. Separate the whites and yolks of 8 eggs. Get out a large, clean mixing bowl and a small mixing bowl. Crack each egg and put the yolk into the small mixing bowl. Put the whites into the large mixing bowl. Whisk 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) of the milk and the egg yolks into the dry mixture. Pour ⁄ 2 cup (120 ml) of whole milk into the bowl with the sugar and flour. Add the 8 egg yolks and whisk until the ingredients form a yellow paste. Heat 3 cups (710 ml) of the milk and whisk the egg yolk mixture into it. Pour the remaining 3 cups (710 ml) of whole milk into a large saucepan and turn the burner to medium. Once the milk simmers gently, pour 1 cup (240 ml) of the hot milk into the bowl with the egg yolk mixture. Whisk the egg mixture well so the milk combines. Then slowly whisk the egg mixture into the saucepan with the rest of the milk. To temper the eggs, heat them slowly by combining them with hot milk. This will prevent the eggs from cooking or scrambling in the pudding. Bring the pudding to a boil and cook it for 3 minutes. Keep the burner on medium and stir the mixture in the saucepan. Keep stirring until the liquids thicken and form a smooth pudding. It's important to stir so the pudding doesn't stick to the bottom of the saucepan and burn. Stir in the butter and vanilla. Turn off the burner and stir in 1 tablespoon (14 g) of butter along with 1 ⁄ 2 teaspoons (7.4 ml) of vanilla extract. Keep stirring until the butter melts. Then set the pudding aside to cool a little while you prepare the pan and meringue. Spread the vanilla wafers and banana slices in the bottom of the dish. Open an 11-ounce (311 g) box of vanilla wafers and place them in the bottom of the 9 in × 13 in (23 cm × 33 cm) baking dish. Then arrange the banana slices evenly over the wafers. Substitute your favorite cookies for the vanilla wafers. For example, line the bottom of the dish with graham crackers or shortbread. Pour the pudding over the wafers and banana slices. Then use the back of a spoon to spread the pudding evenly across so it's level in the pan. Some of the pudding should fall down between the wafers and bananas. Whip the egg whites with tartar and sugar until stiff peaks form. Add 1 teaspoon (3 g) of cream of tartar to the mixing bowl with the egg whites. Turn the mixer on to high speed and beat the whites until they're softly whipped. Keep the mixer running and slowly pour in 1 1/3 cup (263 g) of granulated sugar. Beat until the egg whites form stiff peaks. It should take 2 to 3 minutes for the egg whites to form stiff peaks. To test the whites, turn off the mixer and lift a beater out of the bowl. This should leave an egg white peak that holds its shape. Spoon the meringue over the pudding. Use a large spoon to push the meringue all the way to the edges of the baking dish so all of the pudding is completely covered. The meringue will seal the pudding in so it doesn't bubble out as the meringue bakes. Bake the banana pudding for 10 to 15 minutes. Put the baking dish in the preheated oven and cook it until the meringue is lightly brown on top. Then remove the banana pudding and let it cool for 10 minutes before you serve it. Cool the leftover banana pudding and cover it with plastic wrap. Store the leftover banana pudding in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. The meringue will weep and the bananas may darken the longer the pudding is stored.
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Beat the cream cheese and sweetened condensed milk for 1 minute. Beat in the pudding mix, milk, and vanilla. Whip the cream with the sugar in a separate bowl until peaks form. Fold half of the whipped cream into the cream cheese mixture. Line a dish with cookies and sliced bananas. Spread the pudding mixture or alternate with cookies to make a trifle. Cover the banana pudding with the reserved whipped cream. Garnish and serve the banana pudding. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C) and get out a baking dish. Whisk 1 cup (200 g) of the sugar with flour and salt. Separate the whites and yolks of 8 eggs. Whisk 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) of the milk and the egg yolks into the dry mixture. Heat 3 cups (710 ml) of the milk and whisk the egg yolk mixture into it. Bring the pudding to a boil and cook it for 3 minutes. Stir in the butter and vanilla. Spread the vanilla wafers and banana slices in the bottom of the dish. Pour the pudding over the wafers and banana slices. Whip the egg whites with tartar and sugar until stiff peaks form. Spoon the meringue over the pudding. Bake the banana pudding for 10 to 15 minutes.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Handmade-Soap
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How to Make Handmade Soap
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To make handmade soap, start by mixing lye and cold water in a canning jar. Then, mix some essential oils together in a separate jar, and heat the oils up in a pan of water on the stovetop. Next, pour the essential oils into a mixing bowl, and slowly stir the lye and cold water in for 5 minutes. When you're finished, stir in some dried herbs and natural colors before pouring the mixture into a silicone baking mold. Finally, let the soap harden for 24 hours, and then take it out of the mold and let it cure for 1 month.
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Have the correct mixing bowls. Do not use equipment that will be used for cooking. Use bowls and equipment made from stainless steel, tempered glass, and enamel. Avoid using copper and aluminum as they have a negative reaction with lye. Moreover, some plastics melt when mixed with lye. Use soap-only spoons made of styrene plastic or silicone. Get creative when choosing soap molds. You can pick up a variety of soap molds at your local craft store or use silicone baking pans. Silicone is prefered because you can peel off the soap molds easily. Gather all your tools. Aside from the actual ingredients you want in your soap, make sure you have a pint and a quart canning jar, a stainless steel thermometer that can read between 90 - 200 degrees Fahrenheit, newspaper, and an old towel. Pick up dried herbs from your local craft store or online. Ensure that you get dried herbs for your soap. Some popular choices are lavender, chamomile, lemongrass, or oakmoss. Make sure you know who will be using your soap as some people may be more sensitive or even allergic to certain herbs. Each soap batch should use about a ¼ cup of dried herbs. Get oils from your local craft store or online. While essential oils come from the roots, stems, flowers, and seeds of plants, their aroma can be artificially produced. Use about 15-20 drops of oil, or around a teaspoon, for a batch of this size. Stick to natural colors rather than adding artificial coloring. Cinnamon and cocoa powder create brown soap, powdered chlorophyll creates green, turmeric creates yellow, while beetroot makes an orange soap. Food coloring doesn't hold up well in soap so it's best to stick to natural colors.. Be aware that colors may change during the process, like magenta beet powder turning yellowish orange. Understand how aromatherapy works. Choose your materials based on their healing properties. For example, a lemon scent is said to aid concentration while calming and clarifying someone who feels angry, anxious, or worn out. Mix and match your ingredients for your desired effect. Lavender is said to aid with emotional stress while rosemary is said to give energy, improve memory, and fight exhaustion, headaches and mental fatigue.Cinnamon aids concentration and focus while peppermint is said to boost energy and increase concentration. Prepare your work area and mix the lye. Use newspaper to cover your work. Before working with lye, make sure to have your protective gear on including gloves and eye wear. Scoop ¼ cup of lye and measure water in your quart canning jar. Stir as your slowly pour the lye into the water. Avoid the fumes by wearing a mask or standing back. Stir until clear and let sit. Make sure to use cold water. If you have the time and budget, you can use distilled water. Most pharmacies or grocery stores will have distilled water that you can purchase. You can purchase lye at your local drug store, craft store, or online. Heat your oils once mixed together. Mix your oils together in the pint jar. Heat the pint for about a minute in the microwave or add the oils to a pan of water and heat over a stove. The temperature should be around 120 degrees Fahrenheit for your oils. If you're making a mild to hard bar, use olive oil or use coconut oil in order to produce soap with a good lather. You may also use almond oil, grapeseed oil, sunflower oil, or safflower oil to achieve similar effects. Stir the lye and oils together. Check the temperature of the lye. Wait for both the lye and oils to cool around 95° and 105° Fahrenheit. Make sure not to let these ingredients cool too low or your soap will come together too quickly and become coarse and crumble easily. Once both the lye and oils are at the right temperature, pour the oils into a mixing bowl and slowly stir the lye in by hand for about 5 minutes. You can also use an immersion blender to ensure as much soap contacts the lye as possible. Once the soap is thick and light in color, similar to vanilla pudding, it's referred to as “trace” and is ready for herbs and essential oils. Add herbs, essential oils, or other preferences. Stir everything thoroughly and pour the mixture into your soap molds or silicone baking molds. Cover the molds with plastic wrap and cover with an old towel. The towel allows residual heat to keep the mixture warm and start the saponification process. Saponification is the process at which all your base ingredients becomes soap. Age your soap. Let your soap sit for 24 hours. Let it sit for another 12-24 hours if your soap is still soft or warm. Once cold and firm, remove your soap and place onto parchment paper or a baking rack. Allow your soap to cure for about a month or 4 weeks but turn each piece of soap over at least once a week to ensure air gets to all the sides of the soap. If you're using a loaf pan for your mold, you should cut the loaf into bars before the 4 week curing period. Store the soap safely using wax paper or an airtight container. Once cured, wrap your soap in wax paper or place it in an airtight container because handmade soap creates glycerin, which pulls moisture from the air. Moisture may attract debris and dust so keeping your soap covered will keep them clean and pure. Let your tools sit to get rid of the fat and lye. Neutralize the lye with white vinegar before washing your equipment. Let all your equipment sit for several days because residual lye will may burn your hands while fat will be very difficult to remove if fresh. Waiting allows the residual lye and fat to become soap that washes away when soaked in hot water. Wear gloves when cleaning up. Protect your hands because soap batter may still irritate your skin even though most of the saponification is over. Goggles and an apron are also great for protecting your eyes and clothing. Use a spatula and paper towels to clean soap mixtures before rinsing. Scrape any extra soap batter with a spatula. Use paper towels to wipe raw soap from bowls and utensils. Getting rid of any extra raw soap material before washing cuts minimizes any harm the oils and lye might do to your pipes or septic tank. Soak all your equipment and containers. Place all containers, bowls, and utensils in your sink once you've removed any excess soap. Soak and wash in hot water and dish soap Grease-cutting dish soap and a special sponge for utensils work best. Rinse with extremely hot water. Grease-cutting dish soap and extremely hot water helps to both prevent clogging and greasy residue on your bowls and utensils. Handmade soap is gentle on the hands so don't be afraid to touch any soap material.
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Have the correct mixing bowls. Get creative when choosing soap molds. Gather all your tools. Pick up dried herbs from your local craft store or online. Get oils from your local craft store or online. Stick to natural colors rather than adding artificial coloring. Understand how aromatherapy works. Prepare your work area and mix the lye. Heat your oils once mixed together. Stir the lye and oils together. Add herbs, essential oils, or other preferences. Age your soap. Store the soap safely using wax paper or an airtight container. Let your tools sit to get rid of the fat and lye. Wear gloves when cleaning up. Use a spatula and paper towels to clean soap mixtures before rinsing. Soak all your equipment and containers. Rinse with extremely hot water.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Not-Cry
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How to Not Cry
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To not cry, try to excuse yourself from the situation you're in so you can take a moment to compose yourself. If you can't get away, try distracting yourself by pinching or poking your arm or slowly counting to 100 in your head. It might also help if you take a few slow, deep breaths so you feel less overwhelmed. Even just focusing on something in front of you, like a pen on your desk or a clock on the wall, can help prevent tears.
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Consider what you are feeling when you feel like crying. You may feel the urge to cry in specific situations, like when confronting authority. Though that urge might feel like it is beyond your control, there is usually an identifiable cause. Even just identifying the cause can help you gain control or avoid the situation in the future. You may feel a range of emotions, such as: Sadness Fear Anxiety Joy Frustration Grief Determine what you are thinking about. Shedding tears will be related to the emotions you are feeling and the thoughts you are having at the time, even when they don't seem immediately related. Consider the kinds of thoughts you are having when you feel like crying, and seek to find the connection. For instance, if you feel the urge to cry in a happy situation, consider whether you think the situation is “too good to be true,” or is fleeting. If you feel the urge to cry when you are being evaluated (such as during a review at work), determine if your thoughts are causing you to feel judged harshly, singled out personally, inadequate, etc. Observe your internal feedback. Even in tense situations, you have some control over your thoughts and feelings. When you are communicating with someone and feel the urge to cry, consider what you are telling yourself as you listen to this person. For instance, if you are being evaluated at work and your manager suggests there are areas you could improve upon, are you telling yourself this means “I am terrible at my job,” or are you concentrating on forming a specific plan of action to move forward? Similarly, if a friend is upset with you and you feel the urge to cry, ask yourself if you are telling yourself “My friend hates me,” or simply that “I have done something specific to hurt my friend, and I should not do this again.” Sometimes, the way you think could contribute to your crying. For example, you might overgeneralize a situation or think in terms of "all or nothing." These can make a situation seem more dire than it is. Try to use logic to redirect your thoughts. Cut out self-criticism. By observing your internal feedback, you can determine if you are being self-critical; this is a common reason for feeling the urge to cry. Consider your thoughts and feelings when you are communicating with others (or thinking to yourself). Identify and stop self-criticism. Common forms of self-criticism include statements like “I'm too emotional,” “Men shouldn't cry,” and “I'm a failure.” Replace these criticisms with thoughts that are more self-compassionate, like “I worked really hard on that project, and I'm proud even if it didn't quite succeed,” or “I really care about this issue, and I know my feelings are invested in it.” A good way to reduce self-criticism is to think about what you would tell your best friend in this situation. Treat yourself the same way you would treat your friend. Expect others to understand. Some people do not know how to react when someone cries in front of them. However, you should be able to expect that someone understands that there is a reason when you cry, and that it doesn't necessarily mean that you are being weak, inappropriate, unprofessional, etc. When you cry and others seem unprepared or surprised, you should nevertheless expect them to show empathy by saying something like “I can see this is something really important to you,” or “I know you are upset.” If you cry in front of someone who doesn't seem to know how to react, you don't have to ignore it. You can try saying something like “You see, this is really important to me,” or “I'm upset because ….” This will help the person understand what is going on. Pinch or poke yourself. Some people find that they can stop themselves from crying by pinching or poking their nose, arm, cheek, palm, etc. It is possible that the sensation of pain temporarily distracts you from the emotions or thoughts that are causing the urge to cry. Push your tongue against the roof of your mouth. Like pinching yourself, you can create a temporary distraction or sensation of slight pain by pushing your tongue against the roof of your mouth when you feel the urge to cry. Take a moment to breathe. Count to ten and take several slow, deep breaths. Getting plenty of oxygen can boost your mood and increase your alertness. In addition, having a moment to pause can help your thoughts catch up to your feelings, and dispel the urge to cry. Distract yourself by counting. Choose a random number, such as 7, and start counting up to 100. Your brain will concentrate on the logical action of counting, which can reduce your emotional response. Ask to be excused from the environment. If you want to avoid crying in front of someone, like a manager at work, excuse yourself and leave the area. For instance, say you need to go to the restroom or get some air. A short break to take a walk or assess your feelings can buy you some time and stop the urge to cry. Use a prop. Sometimes, having something else to focus on can distract you from the urge to cry. For instance, if you have a stressful meeting with your boss and are afraid you might cry, take a notepad or other object with you. Focusing on this during the meeting can prevent tears. Try visualization techniques. If you often feel like crying in certain situations, try imagining them in your head and playing out alternative situations. Repeatedly visualizing better outcomes in imaginary scenarios, in which you don't cry, can help you handle an actual situation. For instance, if you have a tendency to cry during family conflicts, imagine a situation in which you talk to your family while remaining composed and confident. If you can imagine how you will appear when you don't cry, you'll have a plan. If you are trying to avoid crying when defending yourself, imagine situations in which you speak up. For instance, imagine meeting with your boss for an evaluation and saying “I appreciate your feedback on X issue. I'd like to offer my perspective on the same.” If you are trying to avoid crying when speaking in public, imagine yourself on a stage confidently delivering your speech, presentation, etc. Then, when you actually have to speak in public, you will already have rehearsed a good outcome. Talk to a counselor. If you feel like you have a serious problem controlling your emotions, don't be afraid to seek help. Counselors are trained to help you understand your emotions and to develop techniques for understanding and controlling your feelings. Rule out any underlying medical problems. Some medical conditions, like pseudobulbar affect and certain forms of depression, can cause outbursts of uncontrollable crying, or increase your likelihood of crying. If you often have the urge to cry, or can't seem to stop when you do, you may want to see your doctor to determine if there is an underlying cause that needs to be treated. Understand that crying has a purpose. While scientists still don't fully understand why humans cry, its clear that there is a relationship between crying and the expression of emotion. Crying can actually make the crier feel better, and cause others to feel sympathy and empathy, thereby forging connections between people. Remember that everyone has good reasons now and then to cry, and so you may not always need or want to stop. Try to avoid suppressing your emotions. It is healthier to accept that you are upset about something. Keep yourself from crying when you're at work or school. Having a good cry is an important way to release emotions, but if you do it a work or school, you may not end up feeling better afterward. Crying around colleagues or fellow students may attract attention that you don't want. While most people are understanding when you need to cry, some aren't, and you may not want to share such an intimate side of yourself with them. In addition, crying at work could be seen as unprofessional, especially if it happens during a meeting or another high-pressure moment. Learn how to stop the tears when someone makes a hurtful comment. Crying can be a normal reaction to hurt feelings. While there's nothing wrong with crying in response to hurt or anger, it can signal to the other person that you aren't fully in control of your emotions. If you don't want to give them the satisfaction, try techniques to keep yourself from crying over things like a bad work review or a rude comment. Practice not crying when you're afraid or stressed out. Crying from fear is also normal, but there are times when you might not want to express yourself that way. For example, maybe you have a presentation to give, and your stage fright is so extreme that you fear you'll cry in front of the class. It's worth practicing distraction methods and other ways to keep yourself from crying until you're out of the spotlight. Let yourself cry when the time is right. Crying is a valid way to release all sorts of emotions. Some situations may not be right for crying, but others absolutely are. Let yourself cry when you're with people who know you and support you. Let yourself cry at memorials, funerals, and other spaces where expressing emotions is encouraged. And of course, let yourself cry when you're alone. Sometimes the best time to cry is when you don't have to worry about how your tears will affect other people, and you can just focus on yourself.
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Consider what you are feeling when you feel like crying. Determine what you are thinking about. Observe your internal feedback. Cut out self-criticism. Expect others to understand. Pinch or poke yourself. Push your tongue against the roof of your mouth. Take a moment to breathe. Distract yourself by counting. Ask to be excused from the environment. Use a prop. Try visualization techniques. Talk to a counselor. Rule out any underlying medical problems. Understand that crying has a purpose. Keep yourself from crying when you're at work or school. Learn how to stop the tears when someone makes a hurtful comment. Practice not crying when you're afraid or stressed out. Let yourself cry when the time is right.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Overcome-Heartbreak
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How to Overcome Heartbreak
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While overcoming hearbreak is a long process, there are some things you can do to ease the pain, like being kind to yourself and recognizing that the pain won't last forever. It can be hard to feel comforted by the future, but talking to friends or a therapist, if you can afford one, may help you to deal with your feelings and see what you may have learned from the breakup. To help get through the day, distract yourself with other things, like pets or hobbies.
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Recognize that you are going through a very big emotional experience. Be kind to yourself. Take things slowly. Like being sick physically, when your heart's ties are dramatically impacted, it can send us reeling out of balance for awhile. This takes patience and gentleness to get through. It may feel like a good idea, in some cases, to focus on anger and blame, but remember not to go overboard. Ultimately, you chose the path you are walking, and being excessively negative about the circumstances you are going through can make them worse for you. Know that it will change in time. Feelings are like the tide. They come in waves. This is an important thing to remember. What you are feeling right now will not be the same way forever. Also, it helps to know that these things ebb and flow when a moment of sadness comes up again suddenly. Instead of despairing over how the heartbreaking feeling is back again, try noticing that it must have been gone for a little while for you to notice its return. Take comfort in the fact that you only have to handle what's right in front of you emotionally to be on your way to healing. Realize there is a purpose. Heartbreak doesn't happen at random. There is a message in every pain we experience and nothing hurts us uselessly. Knowing this, you are clued in to see what your feelings are really trying to tell you in order to help your life and heart be better and stronger. It could be that you are hurting because you made a choice to trust in a person or situation that was not right for you, and your feelings are letting you know the peril you were put in. When you get burned, it shows you not to put your hand into the fire. Perhaps, a part of what you need to understand from what you are feeling is simply a newfound respect for your own amazing capacity for love. With heartbreak comes the understanding that whatever you may have lost, you still have the part of that experience that was created and kept in yourself. It may also be that your feeling of heartbreak is a message trying to tell you what you were getting from the situation that has ended is something you can gain from a more sure source: yourself. Looking for what lies beyond the obvious pain can bring tremendous relief and often becomes the guide to mending the heartache you have felt. Know that heartbreak is intense and feels unbearable and isolating to EVERYBODY. You are not alone at all despite how it feels. Hearts are broken and they mend just like yours will. Seeking out support groups or even just other people's stories of how they got through can really help your process be less bumpy. Write everything you feel down in a book. Ask friends if they could talk to you about something huge going on in your life. Most will want to, some will not have it in them to hear the details. When you find those few people that will allow you to be yourself that will be a gift. If you can afford it, seek therapy so you can vent without any issues. Focus on something else that you love through this time.
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Recognize that you are going through a very big emotional experience. Know that it will change in time. Realize there is a purpose. Know that heartbreak is intense and feels unbearable and isolating to EVERYBODY. Write everything you feel down in a book. Ask friends if they could talk to you about something huge going on in your life. If you can afford it, seek therapy so you can vent without any issues. Focus on something else that you love through this time.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Breed-Lovebirds
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How to Breed Lovebirds
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To breed lovebirds, start by placing a male and female lovebird in separate cages next to each other. After a couple of days, move the birds into the same cage so they can mate. Put some nesting material in the cage to encourage the birds to make a nest. Also, give them plenty of nutritious food to eat, like frozen vegetables, brown rice, and apples. After it's been at least 10 days, start checking the cage for eggs to see if your lovebirds mated!
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Learn about love birds. Breeding love birds can come with risks, especially if a mate dies. Informing yourself about love birds and their mating process can help you figure out if this right decision for your animals and for you. Understand that unlike other animals, lovebirds mate for life and can continue mating throughout their almost 15 year life cycle. Monogamy underpins the social structure of lovebirds and is vital to the stability of flocks. Be aware that if a mate dies, its companion can exhibit erratic behavior that is like a form of depression. Lovebirds do not like to be alone. Enjoy the fact that lovebirds are romantic with one another and may feed each other to re-establish their bonds after stress or separation. Get supplies to breed and house lovebirds. Lovebirds usually live in holes in trees, rocks or shrubs in the wild. Buy the supplies to give your lovebirds a home where they feel comfortable and can breed successfully. Get your lovebirds a cage of no less than 18x18x12 inches with the bars spaced no more than 3/4" inch apart. Try and purchase a square or rectangular cage so they have places to hide. Place different sized perches in the cage along with toys to keep the lovebirds happy and stimulated. Avoid wooden Put separate water and food dishes in the cage away from the bottom. Clean the cage and dishes daily to keep your lovebirds healthy. Disinfect the cage once a week. Find a pair of lovebirds to breed. Choose the best lovebirds to breed. This can help ensure the health of the birds and the breed. Check that the lovebirds you want to mate are not related. This may require a DNA test. Make sure the birds have not mated for more than 2 clutches, which can cause them serious illness. Avoid mixing breeds, which results in hybrid birds that don't belong to any species of lovebirds. Male and female lovebirds often look the same, so you may need to take your birds to a veterinarian to determine the sex. Contact groups such as the African Love Bird Society for places to get birds of the same species as yours. Select a healthy mate. Choosing a healthy mate for your lovebird or two healthy lovebirds is important to maintaining their health and that of the breed. Look for the following qualities of a good lovebird specimen when selecting a mate or pair: Rounded body shape Good ability to stand and walk Broad rump and back Rounded and full breast Sharp and compact tail Large, wide, and rounded head Wide and appealing face Large, round, and bold eyes Even, deep and clear plumage, or feathers Immaculate feather condition Clean, large, and strong feet with straight toes and no scars Clean and large bill, or beak, free of scars. Check the health of your lovebirds. You cannot introduce lovebirds unless you know that both animals are healthy. Take the pair to the vet to make sure that they're healthy enough to breed. Let your vet know that you plan to breed the lovebirds. Ask her any questions you might have about the birds, their health, or breeding the pair. Consider quarantining the animals. If you bring a new lovebird into your flock for mating, consider quarantining the pair for a few days. This can help ensure that both are healthy and that the female doesn't get territorial or reject the male. If you are breeding lovebirds you already own, you likely don't need to quarantine the pair Introduce the lovebird pair. When you know that each lovebird is healthy, introduce the pair. Take it slowly, as it could take a few days for the birds to get used to one another. Place the birds in cages next to one another before putting them in the same cage. Move the birds to the same cage after a couple of days. Put nesting materials in the cage to encourage the couple to start building a nest. Remove any birds that are exhibiting signs of aggression or rejection of a potential partner. Watch for signs of mating. Lovebirds are prolific reproducers and you may notice many signs of mating. Signs of mating can include: Courtship Aggression Jealousy or being “hormonal” Carrying material in the feathers Nest-building. Provide the birds enough nutrition. Lovebirds that are breeding need dense, nutrition packed foods because of the stress on their bodies. Avoid giving them just seeds, which may not provide enough nutrients for the birds or their babies. Some examples of what you can mix together to feed your lovebirds are: Cooked elbow macaroni Pearl barley Frozen vegetables Granulated sea kelp Whole grain brown rice Apples Greens Cereal, toast or crackers Cuttlebone. Check for eggs. The only way to be certain that your lovebirds have mated is by checking for eggs. In most cases, the female lovebird will lay her first egg ten days after mating and then will brood, or sit on the eggs, after the second is laid. Look at the nest every morning to see if there are any eggs. The female will generally lay eggs at night. She may produce one egg every other day, up to 5 or 6 eggs. Be aware that two female lovebirds, if placed together. can lay up to 10 infertile eggs. Allow the female to brood. It takes around 25 days for a female to brood, or sit on, her eggs. Let her brood uninterrupted for at least 10 days. Be aware the female will only leave to excrete waste, drink, and have a bite of food. In most cases, the male will feed the female during brooding. Figure out if eggs are fertile. It's common to have infertile eggs, especially if a pair is too young or old. After allowing the female to brood for 10 days, you can check to see if the eggs are fertile. Handle the eggs as gently as possible. Check each egg by holding an egg up to a light source, such as a flashlight and looking for a membrane, which is a sign the egg is fertile. You can also check by placing the egg in a shallow dish of warm water one week before it hatches. After five seconds, check if you can see a membrane. Be aware that it is normal for eggs to not be fertile or for a baby to die in the egg. Wait for the eggs to hatch. After between 21-26 days of brooding, your eggs may hatch. Be sure to not handle the eggs or the hatchlings for the first 6-8 weeks of life. The mother bird will feed the babies for 6-8 weeks from the nutritious food you provide. Remove any unhatched eggs or baby lovebirds that die.
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Learn about love birds. Get supplies to breed and house lovebirds. Find a pair of lovebirds to breed. Select a healthy mate. Check the health of your lovebirds. Consider quarantining the animals. Introduce the lovebird pair. Watch for signs of mating. Provide the birds enough nutrition. Check for eggs. Allow the female to brood. Figure out if eggs are fertile. Wait for the eggs to hatch.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Oceanographer
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How to Become an Oceanographer
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To become an oceanographer, try to take as many science and math classes as you can, like Earth science, geography, and physics, since you'll need to be well-versed in these subjects as an oceanographer. Also, try volunteering with wildlife or nature organizations to get some first-hand experience in the field. You can also participate in after-school or summer programs related to math and science, like your school's mathletes or a science camp, which will improve your skills and also look good on your future resume or college applications.
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Take as many science and math classes as you can in high school. It's a good idea to get a head start on your studies if you want to pursue a career in oceanography. Taking advanced math and science classes in high school will ensure that you're properly prepared once you get to college. Some of these classes may include earth sciences, biology, geology, geography, physics, etc. If the thought of taking these types of courses is not appealing, then oceanography probably isn't the right career path for you. If your high school offers college credit for advanced classes, take advantage of those classes. If you're able to start college with some pre-existing general education credits (science, math, english, history, etc.), you'll be able to skip some of your general education classes and move onto classes that are more exciting and interesting. Participate in after school or summer programs related to science and math. There are tons of extracurricular activities and summer programs that will allow you to learn more about different career paths through science and math. Many of these programs are state-run, so look online if your school doesn't have any extracurricular activities that interest you. Joining a science club or your school's mathletes are great extracurricular activities for you to try. Some colleges offer summer programs for high school students, so look into the programs that your local colleges offer. This could be a great way for you to get scholarships to college as well. Some examples of these programs are: Upward Bound Math and Science programs all over the country The Baylor University High School Summer Science Research Program in Waco, TX The Biotech Academy: Earn a Certificate of Achievement in Bio Science in Berkeley, CA Take advantage of volunteer opportunities. There are many nature and wildlife organizations that are always looking for volunteers. Doing volunteer work in the field you want to work in is a great way to better familiar yourself with your industry (and it also looks great on college applications and job resumes). Go online to research marine, wildlife, and nature volunteer organizations near you. Decide what type of oceanographer you'd like to be so that you can study the right subjects and get the proper degrees in college. Once you've determined what kind of oceanographer you want to be, you'll be able to choose specific majors and minors to get your degrees in. This decision will be an ongoing process that may change as you study for your Bachelor's and Master's degrees, but it's important to know that there are different types of oceanographers who have different specialties before you start choosing college programs. Physical oceanographers study currents, waves, tides and ocean circulation. This type of oceanographer would typically get their Bachelor's degree in physics. Chemical oceanographers determine the chemical composition of sea water and oceans. This type of oceanographer would typically get their Bachelor's degree in chemistry. Biological oceanographers study how marine animals, plants, and organisms interact with their environment. This type of oceanographer would typically get their Bachelor's degree in biology. Geological oceanographers examine the ocean floor, including rocks and minerals. This type of oceanographer would typically get their Bachelor's degree in geology. Go to college to get your undergraduate Bachelor's degree. Oceanographers usually get their Bachelor's degrees majoring in biology, physics, chemistry, or geology. These majors will help prepare you for your Master's studies. There are also some schools that offer undergraduate Bachelor's degrees in marine biology, which is another option for your undergrad degree. Undergraduate education gives students the necessary knowledge and experience that is needed when pursuing advanced degrees in subjects related to oceanography. For your senior thesis, consider writing about an oceanography related topic. Find a mentor or advisor who works in oceanography or a related field who can write a good letter of recommendation for your graduate school. There are usually internships or assistant positions available for those who only have undergraduate degrees. To have a career as an oceanographer, students must pursue a Master's and PhD level education. Bachelor's degrees focus on general areas of study. You'll be able to study specific oceanography sciences when you return to school for your Master's degree and PhD. Attend a graduate school to get your Master's degree. Oceanographers always have a postgraduate Master's degree in their field of interest. Going to school for your Master's degree will allow you to focus on the particular kind of oceanography that you're interested in. Get your PHD in oceanography. Most oceanographers attend school until they have a PhD in their field of oceanography. Schools that offer advanced degrees in oceanography are often equipped with the best faculty, resources, facilities, and training possible. Most of these schools are also located in the best locations to study oceanography – along coasts. Some of the best schools for oceanography majors and degrees include: Duke University in Durham, North Carolina Brown University in Providence, Rhode Island University of California (UCLA) in Los Angeles, CA University of Southern California (USC) in Los Angeles, CA Obtain professional certification in oceanography. Although professional certification is not typically mandatory to be hired as an oceanographer, many oceanographers choose to get certified voluntarily. Earning professional certification can have many benefits, including the potential for a higher salary Contact professional groups like the Canadian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society(CMOS), or the American Geophysical Union (AGU), to get more information about professional certification in oceanography. Find an internship. Many organizations and schools offer internships to those who are either in school for oceanography, or have earned degrees in oceanography. Getting an internship provides you with hands-on experience, and is a great way to familiarize yourself with different elements of oceanography. Having numerous internships throughout your academic career will give you a better chance of landing a good job in oceanography after you've finished school. School advisors and mentors can help you locate good internships. For this reason, it helps for you to develop relationships with your teachers and school faculty. Look for an assistant or technical position. Having a Bachelor's of Science degree will typically enable you to work as a research assistant or as a computer technician within your desired field. After you've gotten your Bachelor's degree, apply for research assistant jobs, or any other support position jobs, while you go back to school for your advanced degrees. This will allow you to keep learning while also making money. You can usually find these jobs at colleges and universities or research companies and facilities. Mentors and teachers can usually help you find actual jobs in addition to internships. Get a job as an oceanographer. There are numerous organizations that need the special skill sets and vast knowledge of oceanographers. Some oceanographers will work strictly for science and research organizations, and others will apply their skills to different types of corporations. For example, an oceanographer could be hired by an oil company to help determine the best location to place an underwater pipeline. Many different types of companies and organizations hire oceanographers, including: Colleges and universities Environmental and engineering consulting firms Federal government laboratories Marine science institutions Marine transport companies National Defense Research (NDR) establishments Private corporations, like oil and gas companies Private research institutions
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Take as many science and math classes as you can in high school. Participate in after school or summer programs related to science and math. Take advantage of volunteer opportunities. Decide what type of oceanographer you'd like to be so that you can study the right subjects and get the proper degrees in college. Go to college to get your undergraduate Bachelor's degree. Attend a graduate school to get your Master's degree. Get your PHD in oceanography. Obtain professional certification in oceanography. Find an internship. Look for an assistant or technical position. Get a job as an oceanographer.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Tell-Your-Parents-About-Your-Long-Distance-Boyfriend
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How to Tell Your Parents About Your Long Distance Boyfriend
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To tell your parents about your long-distance boyfriend, first bring up the idea in a casual, unrelated conversation. For example, you could say something like, “What do you think about long-distance relationships?” Next, choose a good time for the big talk, like a quiet walk, not when your parents are tired and stressed. Breaking the ice can be hard, but be honest and explain how long you've known each other, how you communicate, and what your future plans are. Finally, listen to your parents' opinions and maintain an ongoing dialogue as your long-distance relationship develops.
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Think about what you want from your conversation with them. Perhaps you want their approval, or maybe you need their advice on relationships in general. Considering this ahead of time will make it easier to communicate with them. Recognize your feelings and include them in the this conversation. For example, “Mom/Dad, I met this wonderful person who I want to tell you about. But I am afraid you might not approve.” Or: “I really like this guy, but he lives far away and I'm not sure how to tell him how much he means to me. Do you have any suggestions?” Anticipate their questions and concerns. Your parents have your best interests at heart. They want you to be safe and happy in your relationships. It can be helpful to see things from their perspective too. Your parents will want to be sure that your boyfriend is who he claims to be and will not cause you harm. They will likely want to meet him as soon as possible, either in person or in an online video chat with you present. They will want to know how you communicate with your boyfriend: email, texting, video chat, or telephone. If your relationship has only been online, they may urge you to meet him in person as soon as possible to make sure your feelings are the same in person. Your parents may worry that you or your boyfriend may not commit to the relationship because of the distance. Write a list of their possible concerns and your responses to them. This exercise can be useful for rehearsing for your talk with your parents. It can also help you avoid getting overly anxious or angry during the talk. Make two columns: one lists the concerns and questions they may have, and the other column lists your responses. Give yourself some time with this exercise, as ideas sometimes take days or weeks to come into your head. Talk to friends, family, and other trusted people for help if necessary. Prepare a description of your boyfriend for your parents. They will be curious about any new friend or romantic partner their children meet. Talk about his age, where he lives, and his occupation. Describe his family: for example, his parents, siblings, and pets. If he has hobbies or a unique skill, your parents will enjoy hearing about them. Show them photos or screenshots of your boyfriend, as putting a face to a description is always fun and helpful. Tell your parents one or more things you really like about your boyfriend. Ask advice from friends, family, or other trusted people. Sometimes it can be helpful to hear other people's perspectives, especially if they are trained in counseling (e.g., therapist, priest, doctor). Be ready to hear a variety of opinions on LDR, both good and bad. Find a person or two who knows your parents and how to best talk to them about sensitive topics. Have a casual conversation about LDR in general. This is a good way to see how they might react to your news. Knowing their opinions before telling them about your boyfriend helps you find the best strategy for bringing it up. “Mom/Dad, I read this interesting blog about long-distance relationships…what do you think about that kind of thing?” “I have a friend dating a guy in another state. I think it's really cool, don't you?” “When you were dating, did you ever meet anyone you liked who lived somewhere else? What did you do about it?” Find a good time for the big talk. It's not always easy to find the right moment for difficult conversations, but timing is very important. If your parents are tired at the end of the day, or otherwise distracted and hard to nail down, finding the time to talk can be a big hurdle. Going on a walk or drive with your parents can be good—not sitting face-to-face can sometimes relieve the tension. Arrange a time in advance if it's especially hard to find private time with them. You know your parents well, so think about the most relaxed times in everyone's day and plan ahead. Be sure to find a comfortable location for the talk—avoid noisy and crowded places like restaurants where you may be interrupted. Bring up the conversation. This can be the hardest part: breaking the ice. Dropping the bomb suddenly can be difficult for everyone, so find a way to bring up the subject gently. Mention your new friend or pen pal and how much you like them. Tell them if you met online or in person, as this will likely influence their reaction. Be completely honest and open about how you met (online or in-person). Describe how long you've known each other, how you communicate, and what your plans are to introduce him to your parents. Explain how much you care about your boyfriend —allow them to see the situation through your eyes. Try listening to your parents’ opinions. You may not always agree with them, but they are looking out for your best interests. Their wisdom was earned through their own relationships. Hear their thoughts and advice completely before you respond. Ask them to clear up anything you don't understand. They will be more likely to listen to your viewpoints if you listen to theirs. Try asking them for advice, even if you don't want or need it—they will be glad you asked and feel appreciated. If the conversation gets out of hand or becomes particularly emotional, take a break—giving each other time to breathe and consider each other's opinions is a well-known method of conflict resolution. Keep the conversation going as your LDR develops. Your parents may worry that an LDR will postpone your plans to attend school, find a job, or pursue certain interests, so it's important to communicate with them regularly. Demonstrate your commitment to the relationship by discussing future plans with your boyfriend, and then your parents. Tell them the steps you and your boyfriend are taking to maintain the relationship (such as scheduled meetings or communication). Explain how your boyfriend may influence important areas of your life such as school, work, and hobbies. Tell your parents you have developed a relationship with someone you never met in person (only online). This may be difficult, as safety will be your parents main worry. People can pose online as someone they are not, which is a genuine concern for you and your parents. Begin by telling them about a new “friend,” not boyfriend, to introduce the topic. Tell them why you chose to meet a potential boyfriend online instead of in-person contexts like a party. Explain how you met. Your parents might not be familiar with the many forms of social media and ways of meeting people online. Show them the website, chat forum, Facebook page, or dating site where you met him. Describe how you communicate with each other. Your parents understand that people get along differently in real life than through electronic communication or handwritten letters. Explain your favorite format of talking, be it letters, text messages, email, or video chat. Tell them how often you talk with each other. Make plans to talk to him by video if you haven't already. Reassure your parents that you are aware of the safety concerns of online friendships. Although you may feel like you really know this guy well from your e-communications, you parents might still worry about your safety and his reliability. It's important to discuss their concerns and share your opinions too. Start making plans to introduce your friend to your parents. Offer to schedule a video chat with everyone present. Schedule a time you can talk to his parents, as this is equally important. Arrange for everyone to meet as the next step after telling your parents about your relationship. Your parents will be eager to meet him and ask questions themselves to get to know him better. Depending on whether your significant other is far away or within visiting distance, the meeting will be in-person or online through video chat. Tell your parents as much as possible about your boyfriend—and vice-versa—ahead of time so the conversation will feel more natural and relaxed. Schedule an in-person meeting with everyone. It's always tricky to juggle the schedules of multiple people, but start early. You could even add some fun to the task by creating electronic invitations. Find a relaxed and neutral setting to meet so no one feels uncomfortable. Make a list of questions ahead of time, in case your parents or your boyfriend get tongue-tied and the conversation stalls. Set up a time for a video chat with everyone. This can be hard if your boyfriend lives in a different time zone than you, but it's doable. Test out your video and microphone ahead of time to avoid delays. Plan to have the meeting take place in a quiet location like home or an office. Make a list of questions ahead of time, in case your parents or your boyfriend get tongue-tied and the conversation stalls. Book more than one meeting. Don't be surprised if your parents want to meet your boyfriend multiple times. They might need time to feel comfortable with him, especially if the meetings are online. Offer the next meetings yourself instead of waiting for your parents to ask. Include your siblings if you have any, once the first meeting with your parents takes place.
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Think about what you want from your conversation with them. Anticipate their questions and concerns. Write a list of their possible concerns and your responses to them. Prepare a description of your boyfriend for your parents. Ask advice from friends, family, or other trusted people. Have a casual conversation about LDR in general. Find a good time for the big talk. Bring up the conversation. Try listening to your parents’ opinions. Keep the conversation going as your LDR develops. Tell your parents you have developed a relationship with someone you never met in person (only online). Explain how you met. Describe how you communicate with each other. Reassure your parents that you are aware of the safety concerns of online friendships. Arrange for everyone to meet as the next step after telling your parents about your relationship. Schedule an in-person meeting with everyone. Set up a time for a video chat with everyone. Book more than one meeting.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Raise-Goats
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How to Raise Goats
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If you're interested in raising goats, start by choosing a breed based on whether you want them for milk, meat, or fiber. For example, choose a breed like Alpine for milk, or Angora if you want to raise goats for your own supply of wool. Then, purchase a minimum of 2 goats since goats prefer to live in groups, and provide them a sheltered indoor area for sleeping, feeding, and protection from the weather. Additionally, give your goats plenty of hay and grain, as well as a constant supply of fresh water while letting them graze on twigs, leaves, and weeds.
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Think about why you want to raise goats. Before you purchase any goats, it's a good idea to think long and hard about why you want them. Do you want them for milk? For meat or fiber? Or do you just think they'd make a cute pet? The motivation behind your decision to raise goats will influence what breed of goat you will buy and how you'll raise them. Keeping goats is a big commitment - you'll need to feed them everyday, pay for their food and veterinary bills, and ensure that they are healthy and happy - so make sure that you are prepared to take this responsibility on board. Take the time to read a few books or talk to someone who knows about goats so you have all the details before you jump in head first. Choose a breed based on your needs. As mentioned above, the type of goats you choose will be influenced by whether you want them for milk, meat or fiber. You will also need to consider the goats' size, temperament and care requirements. Some of the most popular breeds are as follows: Dairy Goats: Alpine, La Mancha, Nubian, Oberhasli, Saanen and Sable, and Toggenburg. Meat Goats: Boer, Kiko, Spanish, Savannah, Texmaster, Genemaster and Moneymaker. Fiber Goats: Angora (which produce Mohair), Cashmere, Pygora and Nigora. Pet Goats: Miniature goat breeds like Nigerian Dwarfs, Pygmy Goats and Kinder tend to make the best pets. Consider how much space you have. Ideally, you should have a large outdoor area where your goats can range, browse and get the exercise they need to stay healthy. The goats will also need an indoor space for rest and shelter. The general rule of thumb is to provide 10 to 15 feet (3.0 to 4.6 m) of space for every standard size adult goat. Miniature breeds will require slightly less space. It's important not to overcrowd your goats or keep them in confined spaces. This will cause them to become stressed and unhealthy, and may contribute to the spread of disease. Pick the best, healthiest-looking goats. If you decide to go ahead and start your herd of goats, it's important to know what to look for. You don't want to buy a sick or unhealthy goat that doesn't meet your needs. Look for bright-eyed and alert goats which move around quickly and easily, with an even gait. Run your hands over the goat's body to check for any lumps or bumps - as this could indicate the presence of an abscess. Check the goat's droppings to make sure they are firm, not runny. Look for goats with deep, rounded bellies, wide-set hips and large milk sacks with downward-pointing udders (in does). If possible, you should also try milking any potential does, to make sure they have a good temperament and that the milk comes easily. If you're buying dairy goats, make sure they are friendly and not skittish, as you will need to get close to them in order to milk them. Choose does over wethers and bucks. When starting out, it's a good idea to just purchase does, as only they can bear kids and produce milk. Bucks can be aggressive and start to smell as they grow older. The pheromones they release can also affect the flavor of the does' milk if they are kept in close quarters. Unless you want to raise a large herd of goats, it's better just to borrow a buck when you need one for breeding, rather than purchasing one yourself. Wethers are castrated male goats, and are only useful for providing meat (or as pets). However, if you wait until the first baby goats arrive (which have a 50/50 chance of being male) you will be able to sell the young bucks for a particular type of goat's meat called chevon, which is popular for its lamb-like flavor. Consider the age of the does. You have a number of options when it comes to buying does - which option you decide to go for will depend on your budget and how soon you want your goats to produce milk or have kids. Buy a doeling: A baby doe, or doeling can be as young as 8 weeks old, as this is the soonest they can be weaned from their mothers. Doelings are relatively cheap to buy, but you will have to wait about a year and half before you can breed them, and another five months before they will start to produce milk. Buy a junior doe: A junior doe is a young doe that hasn't been bred yet. These are more expensive than doelings as you don't have to wait as long to breed them and start producing milk. Sometimes you can buy a young doe that has already been bred (i.e pregnant), so you only have to wait 5 months before she starts producing milk, but you will have to buy a breeding fee. Buy a doe in milk: A final option is to buy a senior doe who is already producing milk. This option is faster and cheaper than the previous ones, however there is a much higher risk that the doe you buy will have problems, as breeders will usually try to sell off the weakest animals in their herd. Understand that goats are herd animals. Goats are herd animals, which means that they prefer to live in groups. Therefore, you will need to buy a minimum of two goats to start off. Many people make the mistake of buying only one goat. Single goats get lonely and will become very loud, as they bleat and call out for company. If possible, try to buy two goats from the same herd (especially if they're related). This will help them to adjust to their new surroundings much more quickly. Under certain circumstances, goats will bond with other hoofed creatures, such as sheep, cows and horses, so this is an option if you already own some of these animals. Give your goats access to shelter. As mentioned in the previous section, goats will require a sheltered indoor area for sleeping, feeding and protection from the weather and night-time predators. The housing does not need to be very elaborate, and as long as the goats have plenty of outdoor space to roam around during the day, it doesn't have to be very large - goats like to sleep together in small groups. You just need to make sure that the shelter stays dry and draft-free. It's also a good idea to have a small stall where you can place sick, injured or heavily pregnant goats. The floor of the shelter should be covered in a thick layer of bedding, comprised of wood shavings (anything except cedar), straw or waste hay. Build a goat-proof fence. Goats are notorious escape artists, as they can climb trees, jump over fences, chew through rope and wriggle their way through the smallest of spaces. Therefore, it is essential that you erect a strong, goat-proof fence around the enclosure. Your fence should be a minimum of four feet high, or five feet for more active goat breeds such as Nubians. Wooden, stock panel or chain-link fences are all good options if you are building a new fence. However, if you simply want to goat-proof an existing fence, you can use high tensile, smooth electrified wire. Also make sure to brace any gates or fence posts on the outside of the fence as this will prevent goats from climbing up them. You should also make sure that the goats' shelter does not have an easily climbable roof. Allow your goats to browse. Goats are browsers rather than grazers, which means that they prefer to eat twigs, leaves and weeds rather than plain grass. This allows goats to be raised alongside sheep, cows and horses, as they do not compete for food. Goats can also be used to clear rough land and get rid of unwanted vegetation. If you live in a green or wooded, rural location, feel free to put your goats out to pasture and let them forage for things like young shrubs and saplings, blackberry canes, poison ivy and clover, to name but a few. Provide your goats with hay and grain. Goats will not get all the nourishment they need from browsing alone, so they will also need a large supply of good quality hay (or other forage crop). You can supply the hay free-choice -- meaning they can it as much or as little of it as they like. Does that are pregnant or producing milk will have extra protein requirements, so they will also need a pound or two of grain each day. You should also supply your goats with a good free-choice mineral mix or mineral block, which is available in most feed stores. In terms of treats, you can give your goats a wide selection of fruit and veg, including apples, pears, peaches, watermelon, banana, carrots, celery, squash and spinach. Just avoid giving them potatoes, tomatoes and kale, as these can be poisonous to goats. Supply your goats with plenty of water. It is essential that your goats have a constant supply of fresh water, especially during very hot, dry weather. So depending on weather conditions, you will need to supply your goats with ⁄ 2 gallon (1.9 L) to 4 gallons (15.1 L) of water per goat each day. It's a good idea to plan out how you will supply your goats with water in advance, as you don't want to be stuck carrying buckets of water back and forth to their shelter each day. If you don't have one already, consider digging a water line to your goat shelter or barn or installing a stock tank. If you have a creek or pond on your land, this is a convenient way of ensuring that your goats stay hydrated. However, make sure to get the water tested first to make sure it is safe for drinking. You will also need to watch out for contamination or stagnation. Breed your goats when the does reach maturity. When your does reach maturity - which happens when they are 6 months old or weigh at least 60 pounds (for standard goats) - they are ready for breeding. Their yearly heat cycles usually begin around August or September. If you don't own a buck, you can either hire a buck or bring your does to a farm that has a buck. You will have to pay a stud fee, which is usually somewhere between $50 to $100. It can be difficult to tell if a doe is pregnant, so one of the best signs of a successful mating is a milky-white colored discharge coming from her nether regions. A goat's pregnancy lasts for 150 days, or five months and most pregnancies will produce two kids, though sometimes there can be as many as four. Decide how you want to raise the baby goats. Immediately after the baby goats are born, give them a thorough rub down with a cloth to remove any blood or birthing material, or allow the mother to lick them clean. From this point on, there are two schools of thought when it comes caring for and feeding the kids. Some people prefer to immediately separate the kids from their mother. To feed them, they milk the mother by hand then pour the milk into bottles to feed the kids. The reasoning behind this is that baby goats can be difficult to wean and cause the mother goat to produce less milk. It is also believed that bottle-fed goats will be be tamer and friendlier. However, others believe that separating the mother from her babies is cruel and unnecessary. They allow the mother to feed the babies herself (though you will want to keep a watchful eye to make sure none of the kids are left out) and will only separate them when the kids are ready to be weaned, between 8 and 12 weeks old. Which route you decide to go down is a matter of personal preference and will depend on whether you value increased milk production above a more natural process. Decide what to do with the kids. If you aren't interested in significantly increasing the size of your herd, you will have to decide what to do with the kids. Young does are usually easy to deal with, as the demand for milk-producing does is high and you can sell them on to other goat owners as soon as they are weaned. If you like, you can keep the female offspring of your best milker, as she can take her mother's place in a couple of years time. Bucks are slightly more difficult. The majority of young bucks should be castrated by the time they are three weeks of age, as they will ultimately be sold for meat. You can do this as soon as they are weaned, or wait until they have reached maturity. If you want, you can keep one buck as a breeding sire. Understand the lactation cycle. Once a doe has produced her first offspring, she will start producing milk and will continue to do so for approximately 305 days following delivery. The milk flow is usually highest 2 to 3 months after giving birth then tapers off towards the end of the lactation cycle. The doe will require a two month "dry spell" before she gives birth a second time and begins producing milk again - an event which is known as "freshening" in the dairy world. If you have never milked an animal before, it is important to get the technique right. Rather than tugging on the teat, you need to wrap your hand around it, cutting off the milk supply at the top using your thumb and forefinger. Then you can use your other fingers to squeeze the teat and extract the milk. At first, you might find milking to be somewhat slow and awkward, and it could take you up to 30 minutes per goat. But once you get the hang of it you'll be able to do it in a jiffy! You should milk your goats once in the morning and once at night. During peak production, standard-sized goats will produce up to 3 quarts of milk per day, while miniature goats will produce slightly less. Protect your goats from predators. It's important to be aware of the predators in your area so you can take steps towards protecting your goats. Common goat predators include dogs, coyotes, cougars, and birds such as ravens and vultures. Some of these predators will carry your goats (especially the kids) away, while others will injure them so badly that they will need to be put down. The best way to keep your goats safe is to lock them in a secured building (with no open windows or doors) every night. You should also consider getting a livestock guardian dog to fend off predators 24/7. If you need to deter vultures specifically, the USDA recommends hanging a vulture carcass (which doesn't have to be real) from a tree or post. You should also avoid tethering your goats, as this makes them an easy target for any predators. Leaving them loose in an enclosed space with a high fence is much safer. Learn to recognize the signs of a sick goat. You will inevitably have to deal with a sick goat at one point or another, so it's important to be able to read the signs: Some of the most common and visible symptoms of a sick goat are: not eating or drinking, crusty eyes, diarrhea, hot udders, pressing its face against a wall or fence, coughing, crying or calling more than usual, grinding teeth, separating itself from the group, pale eyelids and grey gums. The sooner you call the vet to treat your goat, the greater the chance of restoring the goat to full health. Your goats will also need yearly vaccinations against tetanus and enterotoxemia (an overeating disease) and you will need to watch out for parasites like lice and ticks. Keep your goat clean and trimmed. In general, goats don't require too much grooming (except for the long haired varieties), but you will need to give them some attention every now and then in order to keep them clean and comfortable. Brushing and bathing: Goats should be brushed at least once a year (preferably at the start of summer when they're shedding) with a firm-bristled grooming brush. This removes dandruff and loose hair, stimulates blood flow, and gives you a chance to check for any lumps on the skin or other signs of diseases. Bathing your goats is not strictly necessary, but it helps to remove lice and makes clipping easier. Clipping: You will need to clip your goats hair at least once a year, to help them stay cool throughout the summer. You may want to clip the tail and udder regions of female goats more frequently, to help keep them clean during milking and kidding season. You will also need to bathe and clip them more frequently if you plan on entering them in shows. Trimming hooves: You will also need to trim your goats' hooves about once a month, otherwise they will become overgrown and hard to walk on. This is a relatively quick and easy process, which you can do with a packet or roofing knife.
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Think about why you want to raise goats. Choose a breed based on your needs. Consider how much space you have. Pick the best, healthiest-looking goats. Choose does over wethers and bucks. Consider the age of the does. Understand that goats are herd animals. Give your goats access to shelter. Build a goat-proof fence. Allow your goats to browse. Provide your goats with hay and grain. Supply your goats with plenty of water. Breed your goats when the does reach maturity. Decide how you want to raise the baby goats. Decide what to do with the kids. Understand the lactation cycle. Protect your goats from predators. Learn to recognize the signs of a sick goat. Keep your goat clean and trimmed.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Boneless-Pork-Chops
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How to Cook Boneless Pork Chops
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To cook boneless pork chops on the stove, start by seasoning the chops with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or seasonings you like. Next, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet, and cook each pork chop for 4 minutes on each side until they're nicely browned. Alternatively, lay the chops in a roasting pan or baking dish, and bake them for 15 to 20 minutes in a 425 degree F oven. Afterwards, remove the pork chops from the oven and let them sit for 3 to 4 minutes before serving.
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Flatten your boneless pork chops. This will help them to cook all the way through while you are frying them, without burning the outsides. Place each chop between two sheets of wax paper. With a meat mallet or a rolling pin, pound the chop until it flattens and thins out. The ideal thickness is between ½ inch (1.2 cm) and ¼ inch (0.6 cm). Beat an egg in a dish or a bowl and add 2 tbs. (30 ml) of milk or water. Place each pork chop in the liquid, coating each side. Dip the pork chops into a breading mixture after it has been coated with liquid. Your breading mixture depends on what you like. You can use bread crumbs, flour, crushed crackers, toasted bread or rolled oats. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium high heat. For extra brown pork chops, add a bit of butter to the oil and allow it to melt. Place each boneless pork chop in the skillet and cook on each side for about 5 minutes. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and allow them to sit for 3 to 4 minutes before serving. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Season your pork chops. You can keep it simple, with a bit of salt and pepper only, you can add additional herbs, spices and vegetables to bake with the pork or you can apply a breading. Marinate your pork chops ahead of baking them if you are following a recipe that calls for a marinade, or you like extra flavor with your pork. You can marinade pork in barbecue sauce, teriyaki, citrus, oils and vinegars and even salad dressing. Lay the pork chops in a single file in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Bake the chops in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep them uncovered. Remove the dish from the oven and allow the pork chops to sit for 3 to 4 minutes before serving. Heat your favorite cooking oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Any vegetable oil or olive oil will work. Add a bit of butter to the oil if you want the outsides of the chops to brown well. Season pork chops with salt, pepper and any other herbs or blends you want to use. Many pork chop recipes call for rosemary, garlic, oregano, red pepper flakes, paprika or sage. Cook the pork chops for about 4 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned. Finish the chops off in the oven if you are sautèing particularly thick pork chops. After browning them on each side, let them cook off in a hot oven until they are done. Turn the grill on and set it to high. Rub pork chops with salt, pepper and any other seasonings you want to include. Some grill recipes have you coat the chops in barbecue sauce or another marinade. Place the pork chops at the hottest point on your grill. Turn the chops over once you notice the edges of the pork become opaque. Cook them for the same amount of time on that side. Remove the boneless chops from the grill and allow them to sit for 5 to 10 minutes so they can finish cooking inside, and the juices can settle into the meat.
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Flatten your boneless pork chops. Beat an egg in a dish or a bowl and add 2 tbs. Place each pork chop in the liquid, coating each side. Dip the pork chops into a breading mixture after it has been coated with liquid. Heat some oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Place each boneless pork chop in the skillet and cook on each side for about 5 minutes. Remove the pork chops from the skillet and allow them to sit for 3 to 4 minutes before serving. Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C). Season your pork chops. Lay the pork chops in a single file in a large roasting pan or baking dish. Bake the chops in the oven for 15 to 20 minutes. Remove the dish from the oven and allow the pork chops to sit for 3 to 4 minutes before serving. Heat your favorite cooking oil in a skillet over medium high heat. Season pork chops with salt, pepper and any other herbs or blends you want to use. Cook the pork chops for about 4 minutes on each side, until they are nicely browned. Turn the grill on and set it to high. Rub pork chops with salt, pepper and any other seasonings you want to include. Place the pork chops at the hottest point on your grill. Turn the chops over once you notice the edges of the pork become opaque. Remove the boneless chops from the grill and allow them to sit for 5 to 10 minutes so they can finish cooking inside, and the juices can settle into the meat.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Map-Lash-Extensions
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How to Map Lash Extensions
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Mapping your lash extensions will ensure that they're the right length all along your eyelids. To get started, you'll need gel pads made for eye lash mapping. Place the pads under your eyes and mark the edges and halfway points of your lashes with a brightly colored pen. Then, take the pad away and divide the map into smaller segments. Use 3 for your inner eye and 4 for your outer eye. Number the 7 segments based on the corresponding length of your lashes in millimeters. Then, place the pads underneath your eyelashes again and attach your extensions 1 section at a time. Start with your inner eye and work your way over to the outside.
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Purchase a set of gel pads meant specifically for eyelash mapping. Have your client lay down and close their eyes. Place the pad right under their eyes, in the lower lash area. If you are not confident in your abilities, use a mannequin head instead; make sure that it has lashes. You can also place the pad down onto a strip of paper or even a plastic mask. Get a red pen. If you can't find a red pen, try another unnatural color, such as bright blue, pink, green, or even purple. Do not use black, as the client's lashes will get lost in them. Draw angled lines radiating from the inner and outer corners of the eye. Try to match these lines to the angles of the client's lashes. If you are practicing on a piece of paper, draw a faux lash line first. The length of the lines does not matter, as long as it is longer than the client's lashes. These are your frame. You will be creating the map within these 2 lines. Press lightly, especially if you are working on a client. Draw a vertical line down the middle. Find the center of the client's lash line. Draw a vertical line going from that point towards the edge of the pad. Again, the length of the line does not matter. One side of the line will be referred to as the "inner eye," and the other side of the line will be the "outer eye." Divide the map up further into smaller segments. Plan on having 3 segments towards the inner eye, and 4 segments towards the outer eye. Keep these lines straight and angled; they need to match the natural angle of the client's lashes. Play around with different widths. Put the widest segment in the middle. Put the narrowest segments in the outer eye area. Keep the medium segments in the inner eye area. Number the segments based the client's lash length in millimeters. Write the numbers right inside each segment, starting from the inner corner and finishing at the outer. Match the first and last segments to the person's natural lashes, then increase the numbers by increments of 1 as you go towards the middle. When you reach the middle, decrease them by 1. Your lash sample might look like this: 8, 9, 10, 11, 11, 10, and 9. Another example might look like this: 8, 9, 10, 11, 10, 9, and 8. Understand that each client will be unique. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to lashes. Most close-set eye shapes will benefit from a cat-eye effect, meaning the lashes get longer toward the outer corner. Wide-set eyes will look better with a doll-eye effect in which the lashes are long in the center and are feathery rather than dense. There are always exceptions, however, and you should also take into consideration what the client wants. The client is not always right, and sometimes, he or she may request a look that will not look good on them. In these cases, you will need to compromise. To learn more about choosing the right lashes based on eye shape, go to http://www.elleuk.com/beauty/make-up/articles/g31448/best-false-eyelashes-for-every-eye-shape/. Use different placement of lash length to your advantage. There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to lash designs. Even though most designs will be longer in the middle segments, sometimes, you will have to make them longer in the outer segments to suit your client's unique eye shape. For example: Adding longer lashes to the outer corners will create a cat-eye effect and help widen close-set eyes. Adding longer eyelashes in the middle will create a doll-eye effect and help close up wide-set eyes. A combination of shorter lengths and a cat-eye effect will help round or protruding eyes appear less-prominent. Play around with different widths for the segments. Some clients will need equal-sized segments all along the lash strip. Other clients will look better if the segments vary in widths. For example, you could have narrow segments on the outer corners, medium segments on the inner, and wide segments in the middle. Consider adding some longer lashes between each segment. Instead of just numbering the segments, number the lines themselves as well. This way, you'll be adding a few longer lashes between each segment. For example, if your lash strip looks like: 8, 9, 10, 11, 10, you could put an 11, 12, 13, and 12 between each segment. Avoid going too long with the lash lengths. The first and last set of lashes should be close to the client's natural lash length. Shorter lengths will make your client's lashes look fuller. For most people, 11 mm is the longest lash used, but some clients can use 12 and 13 mm lengths. Only use 12 and 13 mm lashes if your client's natural lashes can handle the weight and if the look suits them. Ask your client to lay down and lower their lashes. You can also have them sit in a recliner chair. Make sure that they are comfortable, however, and that their eyes are closed. Apply the gel pads to their under eye area. Make sure that you are placing the left pad under the left eye, and the right pad under the right eye. Draw your lash map onto the gel pad using a red pen. Alternatively, you can buy a pre-printed map instead, but keep in mind that it may not suit your client. If the pre-made map doesn't fit your client, you may have to adjust it. Fill up your first section, starting at the inner corner. For most people, this will be either 7 or 8 mm. It depends on the client and their unique eye shape and natural lash length. Do not apply any extensions to the first 2 lashes on the inner corner. These lashes are very delicate, and cannot handle the weight from extensions. Fill in the next section and the gradation. If you started with 7 mm lashes, alternate between 7 and 8 mm lashes when transitioning to the longer section. This is known as gradating, and it will help create a smoother transition.Then, fill in the entire 8 mm section with the rest of your 8 mm lashes. Continue filling in the lash strip. Always add a few lashes from the previous section into the beginning of the next section. You don't need to add the exact same number of lashes when you are gradating. If you have a very narrow section, you may only need a few lashes; if you have a wider section, then you will need more. If you don't gradate the lashes, you will end up with a jagged look.
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Purchase a set of gel pads meant specifically for eyelash mapping. Get a red pen. Draw angled lines radiating from the inner and outer corners of the eye. Draw a vertical line down the middle. Divide the map up further into smaller segments. Number the segments based the client's lash length in millimeters. Understand that each client will be unique. Use different placement of lash length to your advantage. Play around with different widths for the segments. Consider adding some longer lashes between each segment. Avoid going too long with the lash lengths. Ask your client to lay down and lower their lashes. Apply the gel pads to their under eye area. Draw your lash map onto the gel pad using a red pen. Fill up your first section, starting at the inner corner. Fill in the next section and the gradation. Continue filling in the lash strip.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-a-Cat-Indoors
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How to Keep a Cat Indoors
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To keep a cat indoors, secure any doors or windows where the cat could escape, and make sure the cat is in another room or busy before you open a door. Give the cat plenty of toys to keep it occupied and, if possible, provide it with a spot where it can look out of a window. Sunlight will help your cat's mood and the view of the outside world will help keep it from getting bored. In addition, give your cat places to climb, as well as a scratching post so it can keep its claws filed down.
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Close all doors and windows. Look around before opening any door to ensure your cat is not nearby, or at the very least, is preoccupied in playing with a toy. If you need to open a window, ensure it has a screen secured over it. Limit access to exits. If possible, secure the space in which the door leading outside is situated. For instance, if your foyer has an inner door (leading into the home) and an outer door (leading outside), close the inner door and ensure your cat is not in the foyer with you before opening the outer door to leave. When opening windows that do not have window screens, first check the room to ensure the cat is not there, then close the door to the room in which you're opening the window. If you don't have a foyer, put the cat in a different room before leaving. If your windows can open from the bottom as well as the top, only open them from the top. This ensures that our cat cannot reach the open part of the window. Install an electronic pet door. If you have a pet door in your house that you're worried your cat might escape through, swap it out for an electronic pet door instead. This will allow you to lock the pet door during certain times and open it during other times. Some electronic pet doors allow you to equip one pet with an electronic signal key that will open the door for it, but not for the cat you want to keep indoors. Talk to a specialist at your local pet store for more information about your options. Watch your cat to make sure they do not wait for the pet with access to go through, then follow them out. Use a pet proofing spray. Pet proofing sprays are motion-activated devices that emit an irritating but harmless liquid spray on your pet when it approaches an area you don't want it near. To keep a cat indoors, place a pet proofing spray near windows and doors that you anticipate your cat might escape through. The exact method for using a pet proofing spray will vary according to the device you choose to utilize. Consult manufacturer directions before use. Generally, setting up a pet proofing spray unit is as easy as popping in a few batteries and turning the device on. Train your cat to stay indoors with a pet proofing barrier. A pet proofing barrier is similar to a pet proofing spray, except that instead of getting sprayed by harmless liquid, your cat will hear a loud and startling beep. Place the pet proofing barrier near doors and windows that you fear your cat will escape from. Strap the sensor collar on your cat so that the sensor can detect when your cat is near. Eventually, your cat will learn to avoid the areas where it hears the beep. Give your cat plenty of toys to play with. To compensate for the lack of outdoor exploration and adventure, indoor cats will need toys to divert their attention and provide them with exercise and stimulation. Small, inexpensive toys like stuffed mice and plastic balls are often the most entertaining for cats, and can be played with even while you are away. Other toys – such as fishing-pole style toys that let you dangle a feather or piece of fabric in front of your cat – will require interaction with you. Using toys that require you to interact with the cat will help you to bond and create a better relationship with your pet. Battery-powered cat toys can be useful supplements for human interaction. If your cat wants longer or more intense play sessions than you can provide, battery-powered toys can help divert your cat's attention. Make sure your cat can see out a window. Indoor cats will be much less bored and anxious if they have visual access to the outdoors. Make sure there is at least one uncluttered windowsill for the cat to sit on. It is best if the cat can access a window that receives direct sunlight, because this will prove more attractive to them and improve their mood. Provide your cat with opportunities to forge. Buying or making foraging toys will give your cat a similar experience to hunting and foraging outdoors. These toys are containers with many holes or divots that your cat has to manipulate in order to get their food. This gives your cat an opportunity to use their brain and interact with their surrounding in a more rewarding way. Give your cat a space of its own. If you have a window with a relatively deep sill, buy a padded perch and place it in front of the window. Alternately, invest in a window frame – a sort of clear, boxy unit similar to a windowsill air conditioner in which your cat can sit, hang out, and watch the world go by. Other cats might feel safest in their crates, so leave your cat's crate or cage open at all times. Provide a screened porch for your cat. If your cat can get some fresh air and survey its domain from an enclosed location, it's a win-win for both you and the cat. If you don't have a screened porch, consider building a “catio” – a large cage-like structure with many climbable surfaces. Your catio could be accessible directly from your home (via a side or rear door), or you could place it in your back yard. You can obtain catio building kits from most pet stores. Set up a cat tree. A cat tree (sometimes called a “kitty condo”) is a vertical structure that provides your cat with opportunities for climbing, hiding, and jumping. Your cat will love navigating the cat tree. Set it up in an open space where your cat can freely move through and around it. You can easily obtain a cat tree at your local pet store. Position your litter box in a quiet, low-traffic area. If your cat feels uncomfortable for any reason using its litter box, it may attempt to escape outside to relieve itself. Make sure that wherever you place the litter box, your cat will have an unobstructed view of the whole room. In your home, the living room, bedroom, kitchen, or family room might qualify as a good location. Do not, for instance, place the litter box next to a noisy furnace or washing machine. Placing it in the corner of a room, likewise, will not make your cat want to use it. Clean your litter box regularly. If your cat's litter box is dirty and/or stinky, it might want to do its business outside. To prevent this, scoop feces from the litter box daily. Any time you observe clumping or wet litter, empty the litter and replace it. Generally, you'll need to do this about twice each week. Don't place the litter box in a closet or in the corner of a room, either, since your cat will feel trapped when using it. Additionally, do not place your cat's litter box near its food dish. After all, just imagine how you'd feel dining right next to the place you go to the bathroom. Spay or neuter your cat. This is one of the easiest ways to keep a cat indoors, especially so if you have multiple cats. Neutering and spaying makes cats less territorial and inhibits their tendency to roam. Cats that have not been fixed will not adjust as well to being kept indoors, especially if they used to have access to the outside world. Plus, cats that have been neutered/spayed are more sociable and tend to have better health. Train your cat to sit and stay away from exits. Place your cat in a location away from any doors or windows through which it might escape. Click a clicker with one hand and, at the same time, use your free hand to administer a treat. Say “Good cat” in a gentle, reassuring way and pet the cat. Repeat three or four times per training session, and hold several such training sessions daily. After a week or so, your cat should begin to associate the sound of the clicker with being in that location. From then on, perform one or two sessions daily for another week. After the second week, your cat should know where it needs to be when you enter and exit. From then on, click the clicker and administer two or three treats to occupy your cat just before you leave. Take the clicker with you or leave it right by the door. When you come home, click the clicker and lavish your cat with positive attention. Walk your cat. Sometimes your cat just wants to satisfy its curiosity about the great big world outside. Place your cat in its harness and connect it to a leash. Take your cat for a walk around the block, or take it to the park to help it get in touch with its wild side. With luck, this will diminish your cat's urges to go outdoors, at least for a few days.
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Close all doors and windows. Limit access to exits. Install an electronic pet door. Use a pet proofing spray. Train your cat to stay indoors with a pet proofing barrier. Give your cat plenty of toys to play with. Make sure your cat can see out a window. Provide your cat with opportunities to forge. Give your cat a space of its own. Provide a screened porch for your cat. Set up a cat tree. Position your litter box in a quiet, low-traffic area. Clean your litter box regularly. Spay or neuter your cat. Train your cat to sit and stay away from exits. Walk your cat.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-Shorthand
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How to Learn Shorthand
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To learn shorthand, start by choosing one shorthand system to study, like the New Era Pitman system or the Gregg Simplified system. Then, find books for learning that system of shorthand online or at your local library, including a shorthand dictionary. You can also use online shorthand tutorials. Try to set aside at least 45 minutes every day to practice since regular practice is the best way to learn shorthand quickly. To practice, start out with the alphabet before moving onto words and then groups of words.
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Consider decisive factors before choosing a method. There are several systems of shorthand, and they differ from one another. You need to consider a few different things: How much time do you have to learn the system? How fast do you ultimately want to be able to write? Is there a standard system of shorthand for your profession? Choose Gregg Pre-Anniversary, Gregg Anniversary, or New Era Pitman for maximum speed. Gregg and Pitman have been the leading competing systems in English shorthand since the 19th century, and both have been adapted to several other languages, as well. Gregg was developed by John Robert Gregg in 1888 and has since undergone several adaptations. Gregg Pre-Anniversary and Anniversary refer to the system as outlined in 1916 and 1929, respectively. There is a heavy load of symbols to memorize, but the trade-off is writing over 200 words per minute. Pitman was developed by Sir Isaac Pitman in 1837. New Era Pitman, a streamlined version of the original theory dating back to 1922, is quite complex but also lets you write over 200 words per minute. Since thick and thin strokes represent different pairs of sounds, you'll need a steel-tipped pen to write. Also, you need lined paper, since the lines are also part of the system. Go with Gregg Simplified for fast writing and a moderate learning load. Gregg Simplified can still get up to 200 words per minute. This version, introduced by McGraw-Hill in 1949, was the first shorthand intended for business rather than court reporting. There are significantly fewer things to memorize compared with Gregg Anniversary. Learn Gregg Diamond Jubilee or Pitman 2000 if you have less time. With these methods you can still write up to 160 words per minute, but they require a significantly shorter investment of time. Use an alphabetic system if you want a fast, easy learning process. Unlike symbol systems, where lines, curves and circles represent sounds, alphabetic systems are based on the alphabet. This makes them easier to learn, though you won't be able to achieve the same rapid speeds. Still, a good speedwriter could get up to 120 words per minute. Three examples of these are Speedwriting, AlphaHand, and Keyscript. Choose Teeline Shorthand if you're a journalist. Teeline is a hybrid system largely based on the forms of the alphabet. It is the preferred shorthand theory of the UK's National Council for the Training of Journalists and is taught to journalism majors there. Visit your local library or bookstore to locate books on learning shorthand. Alternatively, you can order books about shorthand online. Lots of books on shorthand are probably out of print. This is why the library, used bookstores, or online bookstores may offer you a wider selection of texts. Some shorthand books are in the public domain and available for free download online. Look for old "text kits. " If you want to teach yourself shorthand, these kits are designed for you. They include records or tapes with dictation, texts, self-tests, and additional materials. Bear in mind that these probably require a record player (phonograph) or cassette player. Obtain a shorthand dictionary for your system. These publications can show how different words are written in shorthand. Take advantage of an array of online shorthand resources. These include tutorials, dictations, and shorthand samples. Enroll in a shorthand class. Such classes may be offered online or in person. Make sure you understand the terms of the course and that you have adequate time in your schedule to meet the workload. Start off with realistic expectations. Claims that you can learn shorthand in a few hours should be taken with a dose of skepticism. The time it will take you depends on how often you practice, the difficulty of the system, and your goal speed. It may take as long as a year of hard work to really master a useful shorthand. Prioritize mastery over speed. You need to fully absorb the word-building principles first; speed comes from them. Practice every day. Try for at least 45 minutes to an hour, if you can. Remember, though, that even daily short sessions are better than one or two longer ones per week. Drill in stages. Start with the alphabet, filling each line of a piece of notebook paper with one letter. Next, you'll move on to words, doing the same thing. When you're ready, you'll move on to common groups of words. Saying the words aloud as you write them helps your brain make the connection between the phonemic sound and the symbol. Increase speed with dictation exercises. Shorthand dictations come in different speeds (words per minute), so you can work your way to an increasingly rapid pace. Practice each speed (30, 40, 50, 60, etc.) until you're comfortable, then move on. If you want to practice as much as possible, put dictations on your MP3 player and practice whenever you have a few extra minutes.
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Consider decisive factors before choosing a method. Choose Gregg Pre-Anniversary, Gregg Anniversary, or New Era Pitman for maximum speed. Go with Gregg Simplified for fast writing and a moderate learning load. Learn Gregg Diamond Jubilee or Pitman 2000 if you have less time. Use an alphabetic system if you want a fast, easy learning process. Choose Teeline Shorthand if you're a journalist. Visit your local library or bookstore to locate books on learning shorthand. Look for old "text kits. Obtain a shorthand dictionary for your system. Take advantage of an array of online shorthand resources. Enroll in a shorthand class. Start off with realistic expectations. Prioritize mastery over speed. Practice every day. Drill in stages. Increase speed with dictation exercises.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Calculate-the-Area-of-a-Sector
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How to Calculate the Area of a Sector
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To calculate the area of a sector, start by finding the central angle of the sector and dividing it by 360. Next, take the radius, or length of one of the lines, square it, and multiply it by 3.14. Then, multiply the two numbers to get the area of the sector. For example, if the central angle is 100 degrees and the radius is 5, you would divide 100 by 360 to get.28. Then, square 5 to get 25 before multiplying it by 3.14 for an answer of 78.5. Finally, multiply.28 by 78.5 for a final answer of 21.89, which is the area of the sector.
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Set up the formula A=(θ360)πr2{\displaystyle A=\left({\frac {\theta }{360}}\right)\pi r^{2}}. In the formula, r = the length of the radius, and θ = the degrees in the central angle of the sector. Remember, the area of a circle is π r 2 {\displaystyle \pi r^{2}}. When finding the area of a sector, you are really just calculating the area of the whole circle, and then multiplying by the fraction of the circle the sector represents. A circle is 360 degrees, so when you place the measurement of the sector's central angle over 360, it gives you the fraction of the whole circle. Plug the sector's central angle measurement into the formula. Divide the central angle by 360. Doing this will give you what fraction or percent of the entire circle the sector represents. For example, if the central angle is 100 degrees, you will divide 100 by 360, to get 0.28. (The area of the sector is about 28 percent of the area of the whole circle.) If you don't know the measurement of the central angle, but you know what fraction of the circle the sector is, determine the measurement of the angle by multiplying that fraction by 360. For example, if you know the sector is one-fourth of the circle, multiply 360 by one-fourth (.25) to get 90 degrees. Plug the radius measurement into the formula. Square the radius, and multiply it by 𝝅 (3.14). Doing this will allow you to calculate the area of the whole circle. For example, if the radius is 5 cm, you will square 5 to get 25, and then multiply 25 by 3.14, to get 78.5. If you don't know the length of the radius, but you know the diameter, simply divide the diameter by 2 to find the radius. Multiply the two numbers together. Again, you will be multiplying the percent by the area of the whole circle. This gives you the area of the sector. For example, 0.28 x 78.5 = 21.89. Since you are finding the area, the answer will be in square centimeters. Set up the formula A=rl2{\displaystyle A={\frac {rl}{2}}}. In the formula, r = the length of the radius, and l = the length of the arc. Remember the formula for finding the circumference (perimeter) of a circle is 2𝝅r. If you know the length of the arc (which is a portion of the circumference), you can find what fraction of the circle the sector represents by comparing the arc length to the total circumference. The complete formula would be A = ( l 2 π r ) π r 2 {\displaystyle A=\left({\frac {l}{2\pi r}}\right)\pi r^{2}} , but you can simplify it to A = r l 2 {\displaystyle A={\frac {rl}{2}}}. Plug in the arc length and radius into the formula. You will be multiplying these two numbers to get a new numerator. For example, if the arc length is 5 cm and the radius is 8 cm, your new numerator will be 40. Divide by 2. You are dividing the numerator found in step two. This gives you the area of the sector. For example, 40 2 = 20 {\displaystyle {\frac {40}{2}}=20}. Since you are finding the area, your answer will be in square centimeters.
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Set up the formula A=(θ360)πr2{\displaystyle A=\left({\frac {\theta }{360}}\right)\pi r^{2}}. Plug the sector's central angle measurement into the formula. Plug the radius measurement into the formula. Multiply the two numbers together. Set up the formula A=rl2{\displaystyle A={\frac {rl}{2}}}. Plug in the arc length and radius into the formula. Divide by 2.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Look-Attractive-(Girls)
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How to Look Attractive (Girls)
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Looking attractive can be as simple as taking a little extra care of your personal hygiene and styling yourself in flattering ways. Keep your skin clear and clean by washing your face and showering daily. You'll also look your best if you care for your hair, so wash and condition it every 1-2 days and brush it daily to remove tangles. Having a nice smile is a big part of looking attractive, so brush your teeth at least twice a day to keep them bright and healthy. Complete your look by choosing well-fitting clothes that help you feel confident and styling your hair to help yourself look neat and put together.
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Shower regularly so you're smelling fresh and clean. Try to shower every 1-2 days to get rid of any sweat or dirt on your skin. Use a body soap and shampoo your hair every couple of days as well, especially if you've been sweating or outdoors. Use a conditioner for your hair to make it softer. Use shampoo every few days, but apply conditioner to your hair every day. After you've dried off from your shower, apply deodorant to keep your body smelling fresh. Brush your teeth twice a day. This will keep your teeth looking healthy while also keeping your breath smelling fresh and clean. Brush for two minutes, both in the morning and before bed. Try to floss every night as well to get rid of any extra food stuck in between your teeth. Don't forget to gently brush your tongue—a lot of bacteria that cause bad breath can hang out there. Use mouthwash to kill any bacteria in your mouth as well. Use a teeth whitener to brighten your smile. This could be an at-home remedy like baking soda and water, or a store-bought kit that whitens your smile. If you buy a teeth whitener, follow the directions carefully to ensure it works correctly. You may need to use a teeth whitener several times to achieve the white smile you're hoping for. Mix a spoonful of baking soda with equal amounts of water and scrub the mixture on your teeth using a toothbrush. Invest in a whitening toothpaste that will whiten your teeth slowly as you brush regularly. Purchase whitening strips that you attach to your teeth, letting them whiten your smile for a specific amount of time before removing them. Brush your hair to get rid of any tangles. Even if you don't plan on styling your hair, it's important to brush it out to keep it healthy. Use a comb or regular brush to gently remove any tangles, taking your time and making sure you reach all of your hair. Consider making a hair appointment if you notice you have lots of split ends that need trimming. Brushing your hair will give it a natural shine. Trim your nails to keep them looking clean. Use a pair of nail clippers and cut both your fingernails and toenails if your nails have grown past your fingertips. When you trim them, try to keep a sliver of white along the nail, and clean out any dirt from underneath the nails using a cuticle pusher or soft scrub brush. If your cuticles are looking dry, try adding a drop or two of cuticle oil to them. When you're trimming your nails, try to follow the natural curve of each nail instead of cutting them straight across. Shave regularly to remove hair, if desired. How often and where you shave is entirely up to you—it's not required, but many people do feel more attractive once they've shaved. Women tend to shave their legs and underarms every few days, while men shave their facial hair depending on the look they want to achieve. Use shaving cream to protect your skin, as well as a sharp razor. If you need to shave, the perfect time to do this is while you're in the shower since your pores will be open. Avoid shaving if you have any open cuts or rashes. If you've used the same razor head several times, it's likely time to switch it out. Wash your face each day for clear skin. This is especially important if you've been sweating or are wearing makeup. Use a facial soap, rubbing it onto your skin gently before rinsing it with cold water. If you suffer from breakouts, try using a product with benzoyl peroxide to help clear your skin. Rinse your face with water in the morning after you wake up, and again before you go to bed each night to keep your skin clean. Use makeup remover wipes to easily get rid of excess makeup. Consider exfoliating at least once a week, or treat yourself to a mini facial using face masks from your local drug store or big box store. Pick out clothes according to your body type. There are all sorts of different body shapes, such as pear, apple, hourglass, or rectangle. Figuring out your body type will help you determine what kinds of clothes look best on you, narrowing down your search and making your body look its best. For example, if you're very curvy with a slim waist, you're likely an hourglass, while a top heavy shape is an apple. If you're pear-shaped, things like brightly colored shirts and high-waisted pants look best on you, while scoop-neck shirts and dresses look great on a rectangle-shaped figure. Choose clothes that make you feel confident. You want to feel good about each article of clothing you own. Get rid of any clothing that no longer fits, and replace them with pieces you would feel confident wearing to a meeting, school event, or night out. Avoid choosing clothing just because you think it's trendy—only pick out clothes you truly love. Dress appropriately for the occasion. The perfect outfit for a late-night concert is going to be different from the perfect outfit for a work meeting. Make sure you pick out clothes depending on the event or activity so that you look and feel your best. A good school outfit might include fitted jeans, a floral top, and fashionable sneakers. If you're going to work, you might wear a button-down with khakis and a belt. If you're going out with friends, opt for a fitted dress or nice pants and a dark-colored top. Put gel in your hair to create a distinct style. Use gel to create a spiked or slicked-back look, or use it just to keep certain hairs in place. Apply it modestly to avoid making your hair super hard and crusty—you can always add more if necessary. Purchase hair gel from your local drug store or big box store. Use a comb to help you style your hair with gel if desired. Create waves or curls in your hair for a bouncy look. Use a curling iron to create different sizes of curls, wrapping each strand of hair carefully around the heated rod for a few seconds before releasing them. Leave your hair wrapped around the rod for just a couple seconds for light waves, while keeping it wrapped longer will lead to tighter curls. Avoid leaving your hair wrapped around the curling iron for more than 10 seconds as it can burn your hair. Straighten your hair for a sleek hairdo. Use a hair straightener to straighten your hair if desired, pulling the straightener down the length of each strand slowly once it's warmed up. If your hair is naturally pretty straight, use a brush and blow dryer to achieve a sleek look, drying your hair while brushing it out. Don't hold the straightener on a strand of hair for too long or it will burn your hair. Add accessories to your hair to emphasize your personal style. This could be things like headbands, hair clips, ribbons, or even hats. Choose accessories that go with your outfit and that show your creative style. For example, wear a black headband with a black and white dress, or use butterfly hair clips in your hair to show your love of nature. Put on a sun hat or baseball cap for a laid-back look. Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone. It's easiest to choose a foundation that's right for your skin in the store, as many stores have test bottles you can use to see if the foundation matches your skin. Once you've found the right color, apply it with a brush or sponge, making sure it's in a light, even layer on your face. Use a primer before using foundation to prepare your skin for the makeup. Apply the foundation to the lighter part of your wrist, or swipe it along your jawline to ensure it matches. Cover up any blemishes using concealer for a natural look. If you don't want to wear tons of makeup but would like to conceal any marks or breakouts on your face that are giving you trouble, try using concealer. It comes in many forms, from liquid to a solid stick, as well as in many different shades. Apply concealer to the spots you want covered up, starting with a light layer and blending it into your skin. Most concealers come with an application brush if they're in liquid form, while a concealer stick can be applied directly onto the skin. To find the right shade, apply a dot or two of concealer on the lighter side of your wrist to see which one matches. Add mascara or eyeliner to make your eyes pop. Carefully apply eyeliner on your top and bottom eyelids if desired, using thin strokes that go around the whole eyelid. Apply your mascara using the mascara wand, teasing your eyelashes from the base of the eyelid up and outwards, giving them definition. Many people just apply their eyeliner to their top lid, making it as thin or thick as desired. Use an eyelash curler to add a curve to your lashes. Add eyeshadow to your lids to give them depth and color. Pick out lip gloss or lipstick to add color and shine to your lips. Visit your local drug store, beauty store, or big box store to find a wide selection of lip gloss or lipstick. Choose a shade that you like and that goes well with your skin tone, applying it evenly to your lips. For example, if you have fair skin, a lip gloss with pink tones in it would look great, while darker skin works well with lip gloss or lipsticks in deeper reds. A regular lip moisturizer is great for keeping your lips hydrated. Visit a beauty store to ask an employee for advice on how to choose the right color for you. Put on bronzer or blush to give your face a little color. When you're applying bronzer, use a plump brush to swipe it over the areas of your face that the sunlight would hit, such as the top of your forehead, the hollow of your cheeks, and down your nose. Apply blush to the apples of your cheeks. Start with a small amount, as it's easier to add more bronzer or blush than take it away. Tap off any excess makeup from your brush before applying—it won't take much bronzer or blush to be noticeable. Fill in your eyebrows to make them look fuller or darker. If you have super light eyebrows or just want to make them stand out a little more, purchase an eyebrow pencil. After you've picked out the right color, use short, horizontal strokes that follow the natural curve of your eyebrow. Be careful not to press too hard—you can always go back and add more lines if needed. Using short strokes will make the lines look like your natural eyebrow hairs. Choose an eyebrow pencil that's the same shade, or one shade darker, as your hair color. Smile as often as possible. Smiling is a simple way to completely transform the energy you give off to others. By giving a smile, you'll look more approachable, and you'll even feel happier. Try smiling more often to show that you're confident and friendly. Smiling politely to people you interact with throughout the day, such as the cashier at the grocery store or the receptionist at your doctor's office, is a great way to show your kindness. Practice good posture. The way you carry yourself tells other people a lot about how you feel, so make sure you're communicating confidence. Avoid looking at the ground when you're standing or walking around and hold your head high. If seated, sit up tall with your shoulders back and relaxed. Practice walking with poise by avoiding dragging your feet or hunching over. Avoid thinking negative thoughts about yourself. If you're constantly worried about your flaws, it will show in how you present yourself to the world. Try to focus on the aspects of yourself that you love, whether it's something about your looks or your personality, and put any negative feelings aside. Try saying what you like best about yourself when standing in front of the mirror. Spend time exercising to feel fit and strong. Try to spend 30 minutes each day doing some form of exercise, whether it's going to the gym, playing a sport, or even just taking a walk. Not only will exercising keep your body healthy and fit, but the endorphins will have you feeling happier and more confident. Work out with a friend to keep you feeling motivated. Try playing sports like volleyball, basketball, tennis, or swimming. Have a sense of humor. This doesn't mean you need to tell jokes all the time, but try to let loose a little and avoid taking things out of your control too seriously. If you're able to laugh off things that go wrong, others will be attracted to your ability to go with the flow. Making someone laugh is a great way to ease any tension and make you more attractive, whether it's through a joke or just a funny comment.
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Shower regularly so you're smelling fresh and clean. Brush your teeth twice a day. Use a teeth whitener to brighten your smile. Brush your hair to get rid of any tangles. Trim your nails to keep them looking clean. Shave regularly to remove hair, if desired. Wash your face each day for clear skin. Pick out clothes according to your body type. Choose clothes that make you feel confident. Dress appropriately for the occasion. Put gel in your hair to create a distinct style. Create waves or curls in your hair for a bouncy look. Straighten your hair for a sleek hairdo. Add accessories to your hair to emphasize your personal style. Choose a foundation that matches your skin tone. Cover up any blemishes using concealer for a natural look. Add mascara or eyeliner to make your eyes pop. Pick out lip gloss or lipstick to add color and shine to your lips. Put on bronzer or blush to give your face a little color. Fill in your eyebrows to make them look fuller or darker. Smile as often as possible. Practice good posture. Avoid thinking negative thoughts about yourself. Spend time exercising to feel fit and strong. Have a sense of humor.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Immigrate-to-Ireland
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How to Immigrate to Ireland
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To immigrate to Ireland for work, obtain employment in an approved category, then apply for your green card or work permit on the Department of Jobs, Enterprise, and Innovation's website. If you want to attend college in Ireland, enroll full-time in a bachelor's or doctorate degree program at an Irish university. Once your application or enrollment is approved, obtain a visa, travel to Ireland, and register for residency within 90 days to make it official!
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Look up the Ireland immigration laws specific to your country of residence. Each country has its own set of rules. Information can be obtained through the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service. In many cases, a green card or work permit will be required in order to live and work in Ireland. Certain non-EEA citizens will require a visa in order to enter the country. EEA stands for European Economic Area. Research whether you'll need a visa to enter Ireland. You can find this information from the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service at http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/check-irish-visa If you live in a European country, USA, or Canada, you likely don't need a visa. If you need a visa, apply for your visa at an Irish Embassy or Consulate. This visa allows you to seek entry to Ireland, it does not guarantee it. Obtain employment in a category that allows you to have a Green Card or other work permit. This includes two options: employment that includes a salary of €60,000 or more, or employment that includes a salary of €30,000 or more and is in a "strategically important" occupations. This includes nurses, IT professionals and other highly skilled workers. A full list of these occupations can be found at https://www.djei.ie/en/What-We-Do/Jobs-Workplace-and-Skills/Employment-Permits/Employment-Permit-Eligibility/Highly-Skilled-Eligible-Occupations-List/. The Department of Enterprise has created a list outlining the positions which qualify. It can be obtained from their website. They can also provide information on work permits. Green cards are not the only employment based permits that allow one to work in Ireland, but they are the highest form. Green cards allow a person to apply for permanent residence in Ireland after two years, unlike other work permits. Other employment based permits include: General Employment Permits, for those with a salary of €30,000 or more in any occupation, and Dependant/Partner/Spouse Employment Permits, for dependents, partners and spouses of those with a green card. Apply for a work permit. This can be done by you or your employer. Green Cards are valid for a period of 2 years and there is a fee of 1,000 euro (approximately 1,440 USD). This fee can be paid by either you or your employer. Application can be done by filling out the application form found on the Department of Jobs, Enterprise, and Innovation's website. Some of the information you'll be required to include on the application form includes: details about you like your passport information, social security number, and education and work history, and details about your employer like their employer registered number, address and type of business. Register with the immigration authorities. If your application for a work permit is successful, and you have your visa if you require one, you may travel to Ireland. Once there, you must register for residency with the Garda National Immigration Bureau within 90 days. This must be done in person. The Immigration officer and Garda station can be found in Burgh Quay for those residing in Dublin. Those outside of Dublin should contact their local Garda station to locate the local Immigration Registration Officer. If you're a non-EEA national, you will be issued a GNIB (Garda National Immigration Bureau) card when you register. There is a €300 fee. This can be waived for spouses of Irish citizens, those under 18, and refugees. Get Permission to Remain if you wish to retire in Ireland. If you have a visa or do not require one, and you can prove that you will not be a burden to the state, you can be permitted to reside in Ireland for up to five years, at which time you can renew your permission. You prove you won't be a burden to the state, and that your retirement is legitimate, by showing the immigration authorities certain records such as your bank statements, and previous work permits, if applicable. Determine whether your student status in Ireland would fall under the Degree Programme or the Language and Non-Degree Programme. New guidelines were put into place in 2010 dividing the regulation of students. The Degree Programme refers to full-time enrollment in a program that will lead to anything from a bachelor's degree to a Doctorate degree. The Language and Non-Degree Programme refers to full-time enrollment in an English Language Course or a Further Education course. Make sure that you meet the qualifications under the specific educational programme. These can be found through the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. Determine whether or not you must apply for a visa. The list of countries whose citizens are not required to obtain a visa includes the US, Canada, Mexico, Australia, most European countries, and others. You can find more information from the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service at http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/Check%20if%20you%20need%20a%20Visa If you need a visa, apply for your visa at an Irish Embassy or Consulate. This visa allows you to seek entry to Ireland, it does not guarantee it. If you need a visa, apply for your visa at an Irish Embassy or Consulate. This visa will allow you only to seek entry to Ireland, it does not guarantee it. Register with the immigration authorities. If you are successfully enrolled in an Irish university on a Degree Programme or a Language and Non-Degree Program, and you have your visa if you require one, you may travel to Ireland. Once there, you must register for residency with the Garda National Immigration Bureau within 90 days. This must be done in person.The Immigration officer and Garda station can be found in Burgh Quay for those residing in Dublin. Those outside of Dublin should contact their local Garda station to locate the local Immigration Registration Officer. If you're a non-EEA national, you will be issued a GNIB (Garda National Immigration Bureau) card when you register. There is a €300 fee. This can be waived for spouses of Irish citizens, those under 18, and refugees. Determine whether you qualify for long-term residency. Allowable situations include spouses/dependents of Irish citizens and workers legally residing in Ireland for more than 5 years. Spouses and dependents of those who have been granted long-term residency can also apply for long-term residency. More information on the eligibility requirements for long-term residency can be found through the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service at http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/Long_Term_Residency. Apply for long-term status through the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. Documents required will include work permits, visas, Certificate of Registration, passport and proof of relationship or residency. There is a fee of 500 euro (approximately 719 USD). Application can be done online through the Irish Naturalization and Immigration Service website. The process for long-term status may take up to 6 months to complete. Renew your long-term residency status. Every stamp giving long-term residency status lasts five years. If you've received long-term residency status previously and wish to renew this status, you don't need to submit another application. You just need to attend your local Immigration Office and renew your permission in person. Determine if you qualify for refugee status for permittance into Ireland. According to the Refugee Act of 1996, refugee status may be granted to someone "owing to a well-founded fear of being persecuted for reasons of race, religion, nationality, membership of a particular social group or political opinion, is outside the country of his or her nationality and is unable or, owing to such fear, unwilling to avail himself or herself of the protection of that country....." If you arrive at the frontier of Ireland and ask to seek asylum, an Immigration Officer will conduct a preliminary interview. Then you will be required to go to the Office of Refugee Applications to further your application process. Familiarize yourself with the requirements needed for naturalization. Naturalization is the method through which a non-Irish citizen can get Irish citizenship. There are a number of requirements you must meet before you can apply. Those include: Be of legal age (18). Children can be naturalized through a different form if they are the children of an Irish citizen. Be of good character. Be a resident of Ireland for the required amount of time. Make a declaration of loyalty. (This is done at the naturalization ceremony after your application is accepted.) Determine whether you've lived in Ireland long enough. To be naturalized, you must have been living in Ireland legally for at least a year before the date of application. You must also have been a resident for at least 4 years in the past 9 years prior to the application. Residency is proved via the dates on the stamps on your passport. You get those stamps when you register for residency with the Immigration Bureau. Make sure you meet the standards meant by "good character". Good character means respect for the laws of the state. When you apply for citizenship you must provide information about your criminal record and offenses committed both inside and outside of Ireland. Everything down to traffic tickets will be evaluated. A background check will be conducted after you submit your application. Apply for naturalization. Application forms can be found here: http://www.inis.gov.ie/en/INIS/Pages/Citizenship%20Application%20Forms. You must mail the application form to the address listed on the same webpage. A background check will be conducted and an assessment of your financial status will be conducted. These processes may take a good amount of time. Eventually, the form will be sent to the Minister for Justice and Equality, who has absolute discretion on the applications approval or disapproval. If the application is approved, you'll be sent a letter telling you so, with instructions on final procedures. After you submit the final documentation and fee, you'll be invited to a ceremony. At the ceremony you'll receive your certificate of naturalization.
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Look up the Ireland immigration laws specific to your country of residence. Research whether you'll need a visa to enter Ireland. Obtain employment in a category that allows you to have a Green Card or other work permit. Apply for a work permit. Register with the immigration authorities. Get Permission to Remain if you wish to retire in Ireland. Determine whether your student status in Ireland would fall under the Degree Programme or the Language and Non-Degree Programme. Determine whether or not you must apply for a visa. Register with the immigration authorities. Determine whether you qualify for long-term residency. Apply for long-term status through the Irish Naturalisation and Immigration Service. Renew your long-term residency status. Determine if you qualify for refugee status for permittance into Ireland. Familiarize yourself with the requirements needed for naturalization. Determine whether you've lived in Ireland long enough. Make sure you meet the standards meant by "good character". Apply for naturalization.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Mushrooms
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How to Cook Mushrooms
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To cook mushrooms, start by identifying what kind of mushrooms you have, since the best cooking method often depends on the type of mushroom. For example, if you have chanterelle mushrooms, slice them up and bake them in a savory cream sauce. Button mushrooms are delicious when sauteed with thyme, lemon juice, and white wine. Give deep-frying a try if you have oyster mushrooms, and if you have portobellos, throw them on the grill to accentuate their meaty texture.
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius). Meanwhile, prepare a glass casserole dish by coating the bottom and sides with nonstick cooking spray. In a pinch, you could also use a metal baking dish instead of a glass casserole dish. The glass dish is less likely to taint the delicate flavor of the porous mushrooms, though. Prepare the chanterelles. The mushrooms need to be cleaned and cut before you can cook them. Chanterelles can be intimidating to clean at first, but they are not overly difficult to clean once you know what to do. Use a soft toothbrush or nylon mushroom brush to scrub off any dirt or debris from the smooth surface of each mushroom. Then, brush out the gills of each mushroom with the same brush while holding the mushroom under cool running water. Do not soak the mushrooms. For this method of preparation, you should use a sharp kitchen knife to cut each chanterelle into halves or quarters. These mushrooms are meaty and best enjoyed in large chunks. Arrange the mushrooms and onion in the prepared dish. Spread the mushrooms out in your prepared casserole dish and arrange the chopped onion over the mushrooms in an even layer. The layers of mushroom and onion should both be even to ensure even cooking. Onion is a good accompaniment to chanterelle mushrooms. The vegetable has a potent enough flavor to season the mushrooms but will not overpower the taste of the mushrooms like many other vegetables will. Bake for 20 minutes in your preheated oven. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and let the mushrooms and onion cook until the onions begin to turn translucent and the mushrooms begin to feel tender when pierced with a fork. Add the broth and cream. Remove the dish from the oven and uncover it. Pour the chicken broth and heavy cream into the dish and stir the contents of the dish lightly to combine them. The ingredients do not need to be thoroughly combined, but the mushrooms should all be coated by the broth and cream. Bake for another 15 minutes. Leave the dish uncovered and continue baking until the mushrooms and onion are both soft. Note that the cream should not be allowed to boil. If it begins to bubble around the edges, remove the dish from the oven. Add salt, pepper, and parley before serving. Add these seasonings to your liking before serving these mushrooms as a side dish. Heat the oil in a large skillet. Add the oil to your skillet and heat it over medium-high to high. The oil should not begin to smoke, but if a few drops of water are splashed into the pan, they should immediately sizzle and evaporate into steam upon contact. Prepare the mushrooms. Button mushrooms need to be gently cleaned and cut before cooking them. Wipe each mushroom clean with a damp paper towel or moist, clean washcloth. Focus on the surface of each mushroom. Button mushrooms can be left whole, if desired, or cut into halves, quarters, or slices using a sharp kitchen knife. Add the mushrooms to the skillet. Let the mushrooms sit and cook in the hot oil for roughly 2 minutes, or until you see that the bottoms have begun to caramelize. Do not toss the mushrooms before they reach this stage of the cooking process. If you do, they will begin to steam, which is a sign that the have begun to release and lose liquid. Toss and cook the mushrooms for 5 minutes. After the bottoms caramelize, you should use a heat-resistant spatula to continually stir and flip the button mushrooms until they just begin to brown on all sides. Add the butter and cook for another 5 minutes. Toss the butter into the skillet and stir it together with the mushrooms until you think that all the mushrooms have been coated. Continue cooking, stirring continually. When done, the mushrooms should all be evenly and well browned on all sides. Season the mushrooms. Add salt, to taste, and the minced garlic. Continue cooking for another 2 minutes to infuse the mushrooms with the flavor. Stir the mushrooms frequently as they cook. Add the thyme, lemon juice, and white wine. Stir the ingredients into the mushrooms, coating them well. Cook for several more minutes or until the liquid has been mostly evaporated. Note that you can substitute chicken broth for the white wine, if necessary. The wine will deglaze the pan better and will impart a richer flavor, but the broth is an acceptable alternative. Add the parsley and serve. Remove the cooked button mushrooms from the heat and toss with the chopped parsley. Serve the mushrooms immediately as a side dish. Heat oil in a large, heavy stockpot. Add enough oil to fill the stockpot halfway. Heat the oil over high heat until it reaches a temperature of 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius). Monitor the temperature of the cooking oil using a candy thermometer. You could also cook the mushrooms in a deep fryer or dutch oven. Prepare the mushrooms. The mushrooms should be cut first before being cleaned and dried. Use a sharp knife to cut off the stems. The lower part of the stems can contain debris from straw or wood, and the stems, as a whole, are too tough to eat and should be discarded. Cut or tear the caps into small pieces for this method of cooking. Clean the gills of each cap by running them under rapidly moving water. Debris and insects frequently like to hide in these spaces. Use minimal water since these mushrooms are generally very moist. Dry by gently pressing the oyster mushrooms in between clean paper towels. Beat the egg in a medium to large mixing bowl. Gently beat the egg with a fork until the yolk and white are mixed. Add the remaining batter ingredients. Stir the cold water, flour, cornstarch, baking powder, and salt into the beaten egg. Continue mixing with a whisk until a thin batter forms. You can use either pastry flour or all-purpose flour for this batter. Pastry flour is less dense and will create a lighter batter. Coat the mushrooms. Dip the mushroom pieces into the batter a few at a time, turning them with a fork to coat all sides. When you remove the mushrooms from the batter, you should hold each piece above the mixing bowl for several seconds to allow excess batter to drip off. Deep-fry the mushrooms. Add the oyster mushrooms to the hot oil in small batches and cook for several minutes, or until they turn a rich golden-brown. Monitor the temperature of the oil as you fry the mushrooms. The temperature will fluctuate as the mushrooms are added and removed. Adjust the heat supply as needed to make up for this. Drain and serve. Remove the mushrooms from the hot oil using a slotted spoon and drain them on several layers of clean paper towels. Serve them immediately. Prepare the mushrooms. Portobello mushrooms need to be cleaned and trimmed before you cook them. Wipe the mushrooms down with a clean, moist paper towel or kitchen washcloth. Use a sharp kitchen knife to cut off the stems. The stems are fairly woody and fibrous, so you may discard them. Otherwise, save them for use in a flavor stock later on. Scrape out the dark black gills. These are edible, but the appearance leaves much to be desired, so they are usually removed. Pry the gills out with the tip of a metal spoon. Do not use the side of the spoon. You should be able to dig the gills out in neat, small chunks and avoid staining the cap. Score the cap. Use a small paring knife to cut a light “x” onto the top side of each cap. Scoring the caps will let the steam escape more easily. As a result, the mushrooms will cook more evenly, faster, and with minimal distortion or shrinkage. Mix your marinade. In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, onion, garlic, and vinegar until thoroughly combined. Marinate the portobello mushrooms. Place the caps on a plate with high sides and pour the marinade over them. Let sit in the refrigerator for 30 to 60 minutes. Portobello mushrooms are one of the few mushrooms that take well to being marinated, but you should still avoid marinating them for more than 1 hour. Place the caps top-side-down when arranging them on your plate. Preheat a grill to high heat. Oil your grill grate to prevent the mushrooms from sticking and preheat your grill to a medium-high or high temperature. If using a gas grill, preheat most of the burners to medium-high or high. Give the grill a few minutes to heat up. If using a charcoal grill, pile a thick pile of charcoal in the center of the grill, add your lighter fluid, and light them up. Allow the fire to die down and do not add your mushrooms until white ash begins to form on the top of the coals. Grill the mushrooms for 10 minutes. Arrange the portobello caps on your preheated grill top-side-down. Cook for 10 minutes without turning them, or until the caps are well browned, tender, and somewhat shrunken. Serve immediately. Remove the portobello mushrooms from the grill and serve as a light vegetarian meal. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet. Add 1 Tbsp (15 ml) of butter or cooking oil, such as olive oil or canola oil, to a large skillet and heat over medium. Prepare the mushrooms. Shiitake mushrooms should be cleaned and trimmed before cooking them using this method. To clean the mushrooms, either rinse them quickly under cool running water or wipe the caps clean with a damp paper towel. Do not soak. Use a sharp paring knife to trim the stems at the point where they attach to the cap. The stems are too tough to eat, so you can discard them or use them to add flavor to stock later on. Use your knife to cut the shiitake mushroom caps into small, bite-size pieces. Add the shiitake mushrooms to the hot oil. Toss the shiitake mushroom caps into the pan of hot oil. Use a heat-resistant spatula to spread the mushrooms out so that each cap touches the bottom of the pan. Cook for 10 minutes. Sauté the mushrooms over medium heat, stirring them frequently with your spatula until they turn an even and rich brown. Season and serve. Remove the cooked mushrooms from the heat and season with salt and pepper, as desired. Toss to coat before serving.
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Preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit (180 degrees Celsius). Prepare the chanterelles. Arrange the mushrooms and onion in the prepared dish. Bake for 20 minutes in your preheated oven. Add the broth and cream. Bake for another 15 minutes. Add salt, pepper, and parley before serving. Heat the oil in a large skillet. Prepare the mushrooms. Add the mushrooms to the skillet. Toss and cook the mushrooms for 5 minutes. Add the butter and cook for another 5 minutes. Season the mushrooms. Add the thyme, lemon juice, and white wine. Add the parsley and serve. Heat oil in a large, heavy stockpot. Prepare the mushrooms. Beat the egg in a medium to large mixing bowl. Add the remaining batter ingredients. Coat the mushrooms. Deep-fry the mushrooms. Drain and serve. Prepare the mushrooms. Score the cap. Mix your marinade. Marinate the portobello mushrooms. Preheat a grill to high heat. Grill the mushrooms for 10 minutes. Serve immediately. Heat oil or butter in a large skillet. Prepare the mushrooms. Add the shiitake mushrooms to the hot oil. Cook for 10 minutes. Season and serve.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Part-Time-Job
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How to Get a Part Time Job
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To get a part time job, start by gathering a list of positions that are currently open, then make a smaller list of your favorite jobs. When you feel prepared to apply for the job, check your resume and references to make sure they're up to date. You can then send your application in via email, regular mail, or by applying in person. Afterwards, wait a few days, then call or email to ask if the position is still open, or to simply express your interest in the position and your appreciation of their time.
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Gather a list of employers who are hiring at the present. Whether you're in school or just looking for a part time job, there are plenty of places to find openings. Look around online, at your school, or even inquire in person. Be sure that the employer is hiring for immediate placement and not just taking your application. Look for jobs that both interest you and hire people like you. If you are a student, a lot of part time jobs can be found in the retail and service industry. These types of jobs are typically good for a flexible schedule and don't always require a lot of experience. Go to a job fair at your school or look on your school's website. Many universities have a jobs section where employers can post part time jobs for students. Search online for jobs. You can find part time jobs through sites like Monster.com, Jobvite.com, Indeed.com, and even Craigslist.com. Other sites like Upwork.com, Fiverr.com, and FlexJobs.com are good for remote or freelance work. With sites like Craigslist, you can even post a “work wanted” ad with your skills and experience to get employers to contact you. You can also go into a store or restaurant and ask if the establishment is hiring. Sometimes you can fill out an application on the spot. Ask your friends. Ask your friends about any employment opportunities. Sometimes you may know someone who is already employed and who can help you get a job. Make a list of your favorite potential jobs. Once you've gathered a list of employers who are hiring, make a smaller list of your favorites. Though you may need a job to pay the bills, you shouldn't have to hate the job you have. Write down your favorite ones. After you have your list, do a little bit of research. Find out what the job functions and requirements are. Check to see if you know anyone who works there. These people can give you insight on the job and help you get an interview. After generating an adequate list of employers, your next step is to figure out what your commitment level to each job will be. Make sure you can manage a part time job. Look at your current and upcoming schedule. Before applying, ask yourself if you can realistically perform well at this job. If you're in school, you need to make sure that you can handle both school and the job. Aim to have perfect attendance, as absences seem magnified when you're only working part time. Most applications will ask for your availability. Supply this information with accuracy. You don't want to lie about how much you can work. If you get hired because you say you can work more than you can, then you risk losing your job. Additionally, ending a job on a bad note with your employer can affect how easily you get your next job. Prepare yourself if your employer needs you to work at a specific time. If you already have a set schedule for school, manage your time slots to ensure education and work do not collide and interfere with each other. You don't want a job that will disrupt your studies and attendance. Employers do not want to hire someone who is not responsible. Get your information in order. Before applying to any job, make sure that your resume and any references are up to date and ready for you to pass out. Read over any requirements for the job (like certain grade requirements from university, or minimum years of experience). Make sure to include this information in your resume. Read over your resume and make sure that everything is spelled correctly and updated. If you don't have a lot on your resume, that's okay, make sure you emphasize your results. In whatever job you had before, potential employers want to see how you made the business better. Try to emphasize past achievements that are parallel to the job you are applying for. If you had a camp counselor job and are applying for a retail job, you can talk about your people skills. If you have any references, make sure that those people are still ok with you putting those names down on an application. If you don't have references, ask some people you have worked for before if you can use that person as one. Even if you mowed lawns for your neighbor, that neighbor can be a reference. You can also ask teachers who like you to be references. Research the company. Whether you find the job posting online, on paper, or in person, research the company. Online applications make it easy to get information on what is required of the job, and to look at the company's information. Look around the website and see what the company's personality is. Read about the company, how it got started, who is in charge, etc. Even if you don't apply online, you can still search for the company online. You want to know as much about the company as you can. This knowledge can help you on your application, in the interview, and even deciding if this job is something you want. Search for reviews about the position to which you are applying. See what others have said. You can read reviews from current and past employees on what the job is like. Make sure your online presence is professional. Just as you are researching your potential employer, be prepared for your potential employer to research you. Clean up your online presence. A bad online presence can prevent you from getting hired. This goes beyond simply making your social profiles private. While making your profiles private to unwanted visitors is within your rights and should be exercised, some employers become wary of this and suspect you are hiding something. Google yourself and see what kind of information comes up. If you find information you don't like, you can contact the publisher of that information and request it be taken down. However, this approach isn't always effective. Go through your profiles and delete posts, videos, and photos of you that might hurt you getting a job. A good rule of thumb is to not have anything your grandmother wouldn't like. This may be tedious, but it can be the difference between paying rent and having no job. Add more positive content. You can also add content to your online presence that may help you land a job. Create a LinkedIn profile. Write blog posts that showcase your writing talents, or create a website that shows off your portfolio, if you have one, and your skills. A personal website can act like a digital resume. Begin to apply. Fill out any information your potential employer requires, whether through an online form on paper. Employers are aware of the limited work experience many high school and college students have, so do not worry about possessing each requirement. Since you've researched the job, your resume will be updated to reflect your best skills and experience for the job. Provide as much information as you can. If you are applying on paper, write legibly to avoid confusion for your employer. It is highly recommended that you attach a resume to the application. Your resume will provide your employer with a thorough overview of your traits and credentials. If you are applying online, submit your resume as an attachment; ensure the document is legible and provides relevant information for your employer to review. Ask for a letter of recommendation from a teacher or someone who can offer your employer examples of your work habits. Ensure when requesting a letter of recommendation that the person knows you well enough to provide qualitative information. If you are unable to reach someone, briefly describe your work ethics to your employer. Always be as honest as possible; "stretching the truth" will not have much of an advantage. If you are asked for a cover letter , write one specifically for the job to which you are applying. Don't submit a standard cover letter. In your cover letter, include why you will be a benefit to the company, cite examples from your resume, and be professional. You don't need a long cover letter that explains everything you've done. You want to keep it short and sweet, briefly explaining how you are the best fit. If you are applying in person. Have your schedule ready and bring your resume and a pen. Though the employer may have a pen for you to use, being prepared with one just in case shows initiative. Follow up with your applications. Always keep track of all applications you submit. Ask for feedback or confirmation from your employer about the application; be courteous and show initiative toward your interest for the job. After you've applied to a job, wait a few days and then call. Unless specifically instructed not to reach out, following up shows you are proactive and can put you on top of the list. When you call, introduce yourself and ask to speak to the hiring manager. Tell the manager that you recently applied to the job and that you are still interested in employment. Ask if the position is still open and if the company will be conducting interviews. You don't want to be nosy or presumptuous and ask when you can come in. You simply want to let the manager know you are still available and would like to move to the next step. You can also follow up via email, or sometimes in person, depending on how you first applied. Remember that if you need a part time job fast, prioritize employers who are hiring immediately from the employers who are only accepting applications. If priority information is not provided, ask the employer. Dress the part. If you land an interview, this is your next step to getting hired. When the employer contacts you for an interview, it's ok to politely ask how you should dress. Most part time jobs don't require you to dress for an interview in anything nicer than clean professional clothes. Men should consider pants that are not jeans, nice shoes, a button down shirt, tie, and maybe even a blazer. Women should consider a nice blouse, pants or skirt, moderate shoes, and perhaps a blazer. Certain part time jobs, like those in an office, may require you to dress up and look professional. But not all part time jobs will require you dress up. If you're applying for a more casual job, you don't need to dress up as much, but your clothes and appearance should be clean and look the part. If you're going to interview for a retail job, it's a good idea to dress as well as the store's best clothes if you can. This doesn't mean you have to go out and buy the most expensive items from the store, but you should aim to emulate the style as best you can. Some part time jobs may ask you to wear something specific. You may be asked to dress for your first day of work if part of the interview requires you to do some training. Other employers sometimes ask you to dress up in a costume. While this is rare, sometimes certain companies want to see how open or creative you are, and how well you can follow directions. Show up early. The day before the interview look up directions to the interview if you don't already know exactly where it is and how long it will take you to arrive. Aim to show up ten to fifteen minutes before the interview. Showing up a little early not only shows that you are punctual and reliable, which is very important to employers, but it gives you time to relax. You want to give yourself a few minutes to relax, go over any questions you have prepared, use the bathroom, or simply check out the place. Make a good impression. In addition to showing up on time, which is early, you want to show your potential employer that you're the right person for the job throughout the whole interview. Shake hands and keep eye contact. be polite, and speak clearly. When you introduce yourself, or re-introduce yourself, shake your interviewer's hand and make eye contact. Tell the person your name and thank the employer for seeing you. Keep your body language friendly and relaxed. Though you may be nervous, it's important to show that you're confident and comfortable. Try not to fidget too much or touch your hair and face. Remember to smile. It's a good idea to bring another copy of your resume with you to give to your interviewer. Have a copy of your schedule with you as well. Answer and ask the right questions. Even with part time jobs, you'll encounter interview questions that you may struggle to answer effectively. Before your interview, write down answers to questions you've been asked before or you think you may hear. Also, write down questions of your own to ask. If your potential employer asks you the “tell me about yourself” question, you want to have a quick, but thorough answer. Create a quick story that provides a picture of yourself in the context of the job. Explain what you've done that will benefit the job, what you like to do that may be applicable to your position, and something memorable. Practice this story before the interview. Since you've done research, you should be able to tailor answers to the job functions. You don't want to look like you're just answering questions to get the job, though. Keep your answers friendly and conversational. Be able to talk about your past experiences, why you want this job, and why you're a good fit. Ask questions. Employers want to see that you're invested and not just there for a paycheck. Ask your interviewer what a typical week looks like. How would you get trained in? Is there room to move up in the company? What is your interviewer's favorite part of the job? These types of questions will give you a good idea of what working this job will be like and show that you've given some thought to the job. Send a thank you note. Follow up after your interview. After the interview, thank the interviewer for the time before you leave. Then, after your interview, send a thank you note or an email. Just like following up after applying, a thank you note shows you're committed and respectful. Not all part time jobs will need you to send a thank you note, some interviewers may even hire you on the spot. But if you can, it's always good to follow up after an interview. In your note, express that it was great meeting everyone and that the job seems like a great place to work. Feel free to mention something you talked about in the interview. Say that you liked learning more about the job, and feel free to add something about how you're excited at the opportunity to do something specific related to the job. Don't assume you've got the job but be confident. Keep the note short and say that you look forward to from hearing from the employer.
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Gather a list of employers who are hiring at the present. Make a list of your favorite potential jobs. Make sure you can manage a part time job. Get your information in order. Research the company. Make sure your online presence is professional. Begin to apply. Follow up with your applications. Dress the part. Show up early. Make a good impression. Answer and ask the right questions. Send a thank you note.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Fountain-Pen
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How to Clean a Fountain Pen
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To clean a fountain pen, start by taking the pen apart and placing the nib under cool running water until the water runs clear. Then, shake out the excess water and let the nib dry for several hours. In order to clean the converter, dump out the excess ink, then flush it out with cool running water and let it dry overnight. Finally, clean the outside of the pen by buffing it with a soft cloth, or with a toothbrush and silver polish if your pen is made of silver.
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Clean the pen if you are refilling the ink for the second time. Fountain pens need to be cleaned periodically to ensure that they will work optimally. When you replace the cartridge every second time, it's time to clean your pen. The same goes for refilling the ink bottle; if you've refilled the bottle twice, it's time to clean the pen. Take the pen apart. A fountain pen has several different parts that will need to be disassembled in order to clean the pen thoroughly. Unscrew the pen grip from the barrel. Take care with the ink cartridge if your pen has one. The ink cartridge is for one-time use and is punctured to release ink into the nib. Since the ink cartridge is punctured, it will leak ink if you turn it upside down. Keep it upright. You might want to use a pen cup or other holder to temporarily store the cartridge while you clean your pen. If your pen has a converter, remove the converter from the pen assembly. A converter is a reusable reservoir for ink. It can be refilled with bottled fountain pen ink. Flush out the nib. The nib is the part of the pen that you write with. Ink runs from the ink cartridge or converter through the nib onto paper. Run cool water through the nib. You can either use your faucet (running it lightly) or a syringe that will inject a small amount of water through the nib. Run the water through the nib until the water runs clear. Use cool water only. Do not use hot or warm water or alcohol to clean a fountain pen. Doing so can damage the inner workings of the pen. Instead, make sure you have clean, cool water. Distilled water usually works best. Soak the nib in an ammonia mixture overnight. If your pen has a lot of dried ink that won't break up with water, you can use an ammonia mixture to loosen the ink. Add one teaspoon of household ammonia to a cup of water. Ammonia will help break up dried ink and any other dirt that may have gotten into the nib. Put the nib in the mixture. Soak it overnight. You can also use vinegar instead of ammonia. Use one teaspoon of vinegar with one cup of water. Do not use ammonia on Wahl Eversharp pens from the 1920s and 1930s. Likewise, don't use ammonia to clean a pen with aluminum parts. These pens will be damaged by the ammonia. Do not use any cleaners or soaps on your pen. These will damage your pen. Do not soak nitrocellulose pens in ammonia, as the ammonia will discolor the pen's covering. Allow the nib to air dry. Shake the nib a few times to get any excess water out. Then leave it out for several hours (or overnight) to allow it to air dry. You can rest the nibs upright on top of a paper towel. The paper towel will help wick away moisture from the nib as it dries overnight. Detach the converter from the pen. Take the pen apart so that the converter is removed from the rest of the pen. Dump out the excess ink from the converter. Take care that the ink doesn't spill where you don't want it (on the table, floor or your clothes). Pour the excess ink into the garbage or into a paper towel. Flush the converter with cool water. Running cool water through the converter will dislodge any ink particles and clear it out. You can either use a syringe that will allow you to run water through the converter, or you can use the faucet. If you run water through the converter with the faucet, be sure to run the water very lightly. Otherwise, water can get behind the piston seal in the converter and may create a moldy-looking blob of ink that is difficult to remove. Shake some water inside the converter. Cover up the end of the converter with your finger. Give the converter a good shake in order to break up any remaining ink that is inside the converter. Rinse out the converter with water. Run cool water through the converter again until the water runs clear. Allow the converter to air dry. Set the converter upright on top of a paper towel and let it air dry overnight. Use silver polish on a pen made of silver. For pens that are made of silver, sterling silver, or plated silver, use a polishing cloth with a little dab of silver polish. If your pen has etching on it, you can use some silver polish with a toothbrush. This will work the silver polish into the grooves of the etching. Use a soft cloth to clean hard metal finishes. Many fountain pen exteriors are made of platinum, palladium, stainless steel or chrome. These metal finishes can be buffed with a soft cloth. Use a soft cloth to clean celluloid, lacquer, and fine resin finishes. Older pens may have a celluloid finish, which is a finish that predates modern plastic. Just use a soft cloth to clean the celluloid. If your pen has a lacquer or painted surface, use a soft cloth to clean it. Do not use any chemical or abrasive cleaners on this pen, as these will damage the finish. Fine resin finishes can be vulnerable to cracks and scratches. Use a soft cloth to clean these types of finishes. Keep the cap on the pen. When you are not using your pen, keep the cap on it. This will prevent your pen from drying out. Store your pen pointing upwards in a cup or other pen holder. If you leave your fountain pen lying down, the ink will dry up in the nib. Remove ink for long-term storage. If you are planning to store your pen for longer than about a week, you should remove the ink so that it doesn't dry up. Remove the ink cartridge and clean out the nib. Allow the nib to dry fully before storing the pen. Then you can store this pen in a pen case. If you leave the ink in the pen, the ink's acids will mix with oxygen and start oxidizing the nib. Store unfilled pens in a pen case. Pen cases are intended to allow pens to lie flat. This is not beneficial for pens that have ink in them, since it will allow the ink to settle in the nib. Use these pen cases if you have already removed the ink, or if the pen is brand-new and you haven't installed an ink cartridge yet.
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Clean the pen if you are refilling the ink for the second time. Take the pen apart. Flush out the nib. Soak the nib in an ammonia mixture overnight. Allow the nib to air dry. Detach the converter from the pen. Dump out the excess ink from the converter. Flush the converter with cool water. Shake some water inside the converter. Rinse out the converter with water. Allow the converter to air dry. Use silver polish on a pen made of silver. Use a soft cloth to clean hard metal finishes. Use a soft cloth to clean celluloid, lacquer, and fine resin finishes. Keep the cap on the pen. Store your pen pointing upwards in a cup or other pen holder. Remove ink for long-term storage. Store unfilled pens in a pen case.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Do-the-Chicken-Dance
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How to Do the Chicken Dance
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To do the chicken dance, use your hands to form "beaks” by pressing your fingers and thumb together, then open and shut your hands 4 times. Next, put your thumbs in your armpits and flap your elbows 4 times so they look like wings. Put your hands at your hips so they look like feathers and shake your hips as you bend your knees, then stand up straight and clap 4 times with the music!
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Join the crowd as the song starts. As you hear the Chicken Dance song start, head to the dance floor and join the circle of other dancers. The crowd may also be formed in a line, or broken into groups of different people doing the dance by themselves. The Chicken Dance is done in repetitions of three, followed by a clap at the end of the section. Make the chicken beak with your hands. Holding your arms out before you, form your “chicken beaks” by pressing your fingers and thumb together, opening and shutting your hand like the beak of a chicken. Open and close your beaks four times in time with the music. Flap your wings four times. Putting your thumbs in your armpits, flap your elbows as if they are wings. With your hands in your armpits, your elbows should point out, resembling chicken wings. Repeat this motion four times in sync with the music. Bend your knees and shake your hips with the music. With your hands at your hips like the feathers of a chicken, move your hips to the left and right as you lower yourself down toward the ground. There is no rule on how low you are supposed to go during the shaking of your hips. Stand up straight and clap four times with the music. As this is the last step of the Chicken Dance, prepare yourself for two more rounds of repeating these dance moves. In some versions of the Chicken Dance song, the pace increases as the song progresses, so prepare yourself for things to move faster. This dance can also be done in the seated position if you have someone who is injured or who cannot stand. Give yourself some creative freedom. Although these are the basic guidelines to the chicken dance, allow yourself to be creative and mix things up. The Chicken Dance is supposed to be fun, so if you feel like there is something you can do to spice things up, don't hesitate to do so. The more loose and free you are while doing the Chicken Dance, the more fun you will have. Hook your elbows with a partner's. In between the Chicken Dance portion of the song, find a partner and interlock your elbows. If you cannot find a partner, do not worry about it. You can stomp your feet and clap on the outside of the circle, or simply watch until the song changes. This polka section is temporary, and you can enjoy dancing with yourself until the Chicken Dance part starts again. Spin in circles for eight counts. With your partner, spin in circles for a count of eight, switching arms and spinning in the opposite direction every time. As you detach elbows, you can also switch partners and spin with someone new. Children can hold hands and spin together in a circle, spinning in one direction for eight counts and changing directions for eight counts. Prepare to start the Chicken Dance again. Once you finish the Chicken Dance, return to your starting position and prepare to start again. The shift in pace and tone of the music will be obvious. If you are uncertain whether the chicken dance portion is starting again, just observe what other people are doing and follow suit.
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Join the crowd as the song starts. Make the chicken beak with your hands. Flap your wings four times. Bend your knees and shake your hips with the music. Stand up straight and clap four times with the music. Give yourself some creative freedom. Hook your elbows with a partner's. Spin in circles for eight counts. Prepare to start the Chicken Dance again.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-Miniature-Horse
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How to Care for a Miniature Horse
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To care for a miniature horse, give your horse access to grass or feed them hay every day, making sure it has enough food to be able to eat 1-2% of its body weight daily. Then, keep your horse groomed by brushing its coat, mane, and tail and removing any rocks or debris from their hooves every day. Additionally, give it deworming medication every 6 to 8 weeks to avoid dangerous parasitic infections. You should also take your horse to the vet once a year for an annual physical, as well as a dental exam.
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Set up a stall for your miniature horse. A miniature horse needs to be kept in clean conditions and needs to be provided with shelter from rain, sun, and wind. A 3-sided stall set up in a pasture typically works for miniature horses that are not being shown. This gives them protection from weather but allows them freedom to roam. If you already have a horse barn, you can adapt a regular horse stall for a mini. Simply swap out the door and lower the water and food bucket hooks to a mini's height. If you are showing your miniature horse, you may want to keep it in a stall in a barn to keep it clean. However, be sure that the horse's stall is set up specifically for a mini. It should have short walls that the horse can see over and a lot of air flow to keep the horse healthy. Provide access to a pasture. It is important to make sure that your horse gets exercise and freedom while roaming a pasture. To give your horse the freedom to wander when it likes, you can construct an open stall door leading to the pasture. You can also simply turn the horse out yourself every day. Giving your miniature horse time in a pasture will give it access to grass and will give it daily exercise. While the pasture does not need to be as big as you would use for an average-sized horse, a miniature horse should not be kept in a small space, such as a dog run. You should provide approximately 1/4 acre per miniature horse. Secure all pasture areas. Since miniature horses are smaller than other horses, they can squeeze out of holes in fencing that an average-sized horse could never get out of. Before you put your miniature in a pasture for the first time, make sure that there are no holes or broken areas that the horse could escape from. A miniature horse will not need fencing that is as tall as that made for an average-sized horse. Make sure the fencing slats are close enough together that your mini can't jump through, but wide enough that it won't get a leg stuck. Provide a companion animal. Miniature horses should not be housed alone. Ideally, you will have several miniature horses that can keep each other company. However, you can also use other animals as companion animals, such as donkeys, dogs, sheep, or goats. Miniature horses are social creatures, so they should never be kept alone. However, you do need to take their individual personalities into consideration when choosing a companion for them. For instance, if you have a grumpy horse, you will want to give it a companion animal that will give it some space and will not respond poorly to its stubbornness. Give your miniature horse access to grass or feed them hay every day. Forage, either provided through grazing or given in the form of hay, should make up most of your horse's diet. A miniature horse will eat 1 to 2% of its body weight in forage every day, so it's important to provide enough for the animal. For example, a miniature horse that weighs 200 pounds (91 kg) should be given 2–4 pounds (0.91–1.81 kg) of forage every day. Miniature ponies that aren't worked and are on a good grassy pasture typically don't need to be fed hay if there is enough grass. In fact, if they are fed too much it may cause them to become overweight and it could even cause colic, a digestive illness. However, if a horse is worked regularly they should be fed to keep a stable weight. Supplement your miniature horse's diet with grain if necessary. In addition to hay and grass, your horse may need a limited amount of grain, although some minis don't need a supplement at all. Talk to your vet if you're not sure. If you do provide grain, do so sparingly, as too much overall and too much at one time can be bad for a miniature horse's digestive system. In general, most miniature horses can eat approximately 1 pound (0.45 kg) of grain every day, split into 2 feedings. Miniature horse owners should feed their horses a pre-mixed combination of grains. These mixes typically include corn, oats, wheat, and barley grains. They are specifically created to meet a miniature horse's dietary needs and typically contain a mix of dietary supplements as well as grain. Take your horse's size and body condition into consideration. When determining how much to feed your miniature horse, you should feel the animal's body for areas where fat has deposited and for areas that are overly skinny. If your horse is overweight you will want to feed it less, and if your horse is underweight you will want to feed it more. An easy way to tell if your horse is at a good weight is to feel along its sides for its ribs. If you can feel its ribs but not see them, your horse is at a healthy weight. If you can see the ribs, the horse is underweight; if you can't feel or see the ribs, it's overweight. Miniature horses are prone to becoming overweight. The ideal weight for a miniature horse is anywhere between 150–300 pounds (68–136 kg), depending on the size of the horse. Keep an eye on your horse's size in order to fine-tune its diet so that it can stay at an ideal weight. Monitor your mini's weight when on pasture. Miniature ponies have a tendency to gain weight easily, so it's important to keep an eye on how much weight your mini gains when on pasture. If you notice it growing heavy, you may need to get a grazing muzzle to prevent your mini from overeating. Provide access to clean drinking water at all times. It's important that your miniature horse can drink water whenever it needs it so that it stays properly hydrated. Be sure that the water is clean and that the container you put the water in is clean as well. Clean water containers weekly so that they do not harbor harmful bacteria, which could affect your horse's health. Simply rinse the container with cold water, add a few drops of dish soap, scrub it down with a brush, and then rinse it out. You can add a drop or two of bleach to the horse's water to keep bacteria and algae at bay. This will not harm the horse and will keep the water more palatable. Secure your horse before grooming. Before starting your grooming routine, you should make sure the horse's reins are tied up. This will ensure that the horse cannot bolt and that you can keep a firm grip on it while preforming your grooming tasks. You can tie up a horse using a variety of knots, such as a quick-release knot. You should always have a quick-release option, in case your horse gets stuck or distressed. Let the horse know that you are approaching it. Although miniature horses are small, their kicks and bites can still injure you. As with all horses, you should approach them in a way that lets them know you are coming. Make noise as you are approaching and make sure they can see you coming. You can approach the horse from the side and touch it as you do so but never come up on a horse from behind. This will eliminate the chance of a fear response if you touch them when they don't know you are there. Stand at the horse's side, not behind it. While grooming, you should position yourself so that you are out of harm's way. Standing directly behind a horse may result in you getting kicked if the horse gets spooked or agitated, so always stay to the side. Pick the horse's hooves and assess their hoof health every day. Miniature horses need the rocks and debris removed from their hooves so that the hooves stay healthy and they don't become painful to walk on. Working on 1 leg at a time, pick up the hoof and use a hoof pick to get all of the rocks, manure, dirt, hay, and other debris out of the inner part of the hoof. Once you have cleaned out a hoof you should look at the surface to determine if it's healthy. Look for injuries or swollen areas inside the hoof. If you spot a problem, seek out the treatment advice of a veterinarian. Many miniature horses also need their hooves trimmed because they typically grow faster than they are worn down. In general, a miniature horse will need its hooves trimmed once every 5 weeks or so. Brush the horse's coat daily. When caring for a miniature horse it is important to keep their coat clean, soft, and shiny. Use a soft-bristle horse brush all over your miniature horse's body. Remember to brush with the grain of the horse's hair and inspect the animal's body for signs of illness or injury while you are brushing it. To keep your miniature horse's mane and tail untangled and shiny you should also brush them every day. Brushing is especially important for miniature horses that you plan on showing, as the state of their manes and tails will be judged. Brushing your horse every day is a great way to bond with the animal. It is quality time when you can show the horse that you care for it and that you are not a threat to it. Give your horse extra care during cold weather. While miniature horses are actually quite hardy, they do need a bit of care in freezing conditions. For example, during cold days they need to be rugged to help them maintain a stable body temperature. A rug is a blanket that is put on the back of a horse. They can be bought from a local riding shop, although rugs for miniature horses are harder to find than those made for average-sized horses. Get them annual veterinary care. Your miniature horse needs regular veterinary care to ensure that it is healthy and does not have any emerging health problems that need treatment. The veterinarian will also set up a schedule for immunizations and other preventative care that will keep your horse healthy in the future. Common diseases that minis are often immunized for include tetanus, rabies, influenza, and rhinovirus. Give your horse deworming medication every 6 to 8 weeks. One of the most important things your veterinarian will do is to prescribe deworming medication and to set a schedule for giving it to your horse. Deworming is vital for the mini to remain healthy, as all horses are prone to parasitic infections and these infections can be very serious and even life threatening. This medication is typically given to your horse every 6 to 8 weeks. Deworming medications given to miniature horses will typically protect them from strongyles, ascrids, pinworms, roundworms, and other common parasitic infections. Care for your horse's dental health annually. In addition to general health exams, miniature horses should have a dental exam every year. The veterinarian will inspect the horse's teeth and ensure that they are healthy. Any problems in the mouth can lead to serious health problems, such as malnutrition, so it's important to keep up on your miniature horse's dental health. Check your horse's teeth regularly to make sure their teeth look healthy and that their bite is normal and is creating even wearing on the teeth.
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Set up a stall for your miniature horse. Provide access to a pasture. Secure all pasture areas. Provide a companion animal. Give your miniature horse access to grass or feed them hay every day. Supplement your miniature horse's diet with grain if necessary. Take your horse's size and body condition into consideration. Monitor your mini's weight when on pasture. Provide access to clean drinking water at all times. Secure your horse before grooming. Let the horse know that you are approaching it. Stand at the horse's side, not behind it. Pick the horse's hooves and assess their hoof health every day. Brush the horse's coat daily. Give your horse extra care during cold weather. Get them annual veterinary care. Give your horse deworming medication every 6 to 8 weeks. Care for your horse's dental health annually.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-an-Evil-Ex-Boyfriend
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How to Deal With an Evil Ex Boyfriend
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If your ex is trying to make life hard for you post break-up, start by cutting all communication with him, including social media. If he tries provoking you, refuse to reply to his gossip and don't try to hurt him because it will encourage him to keep annoying you. For example, just ignore any mean things he says and let your reputation speak for you. However, if you're worried about something he might say, tell your friends so they know your side of the story first. Alternatively, if he's threatening you physically, take it seriously, note the details, and contact the police immediately.
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Assess the severity of your situation. If he is physically stalking or harassing you, or has made threats to your physical safety or your quality of life, you may need to involve the police and courts. Each state has different names for this type of court order against personal contact and different rules for issuing one. Do you feel like you are in physical danger from him? Has he made non-physical threats, like harming your emotional or financial stability, alienating you from friends or family, or keeping you from dating other guys? If his behavior is merely annoying or mildly disturbing your social life, but you do not feel afraid of him, move on to the next section. If you are not sure if he is dangerous, ask someone you trust, preferably who has met him and seen some of the worrisome behaviors firsthand. Stop all contact and communication with him. Even if he initiates it, do not respond to any calls or messages. This will only encourage him to continue since he succeeded in engaging you. If he keeps calling or texting you, change your number and ask the phone company to keep your number unlisted and to block it from appearing on others' caller ID. This is not foolproof, but in most instances can be done. Cut him off from your social media as much as possible. Sometimes you can't control this, especially when they are “friends of friends.” If he is commenting on your mutual friends' posts, ask them not to tag you and change your privacy setting to friends only. Keep a log of every attempt to contact you. This includes attempts to contact you through mutual friends, family members or neighbors. To report stalking or threats, you will need to show proof. Keep any voicemails, texts, or messages he sends you to give the judge. Download and print out text messages or take screen shots of them to print. Print emails or messages on social media. Bring witnesses if possible. Witnesses should have actually seen the behavior or have direct knowledge of it from him. Get a protective or restraining order if you feel threatened. Rules for getting a restraining or protective order from the courts are different in every state, so research your state's laws. Some states require a verbal threat of physical harm or verifiable intent to attack in order to get a protective or restraining order issued. However, your state may also have anti-stalking laws, so research those too. If you cannot meet the burden of proof for needing a protective order, but his actions result in a pending and related court case, a judge may be willing to issue a no-contact order if you explain why you feel you need one. “No-contact” means that he cannot try to reach you directly or indirectly. In essence, he can get into more trouble for any attempt to contact you, even through others, or showing up in places you frequent that he has no reason to visit. Call 911 if you feel you are immediate danger. Keep a cell phone on you at all times and turn on 1-number emergency dialing if your phone allows. If you don't have a cell phone, there are programs that may be able to provide you one for free. If you are not in immediate danger, but feel a threat is imminent and don't know who to talk to, call the National Domestic Abuse Hotline at 1-800-799-SAFE to get advice or a referral for legal assistance. Trust your instincts. It's always better to be safe than sorry. Don't worry about how he will react if you call the police or whether or not you are overreacting. Put your safety and mental health before any considerations of his feelings, and trust your gut feeling. Tell friends, family and authority figures about your situation. Inform your teachers, coaches, school officials, co-workers and bosses about his unwanted attempts to contact you. If your school or office has security, give them a description and a picture, if possible, with a brief explanation of the situation. Make sure your friends and co-workers know not to give your personal information to anyone without your express permission—no matter what story they may tell about why they need to get in touch with you right away. Ask your school's office or human resources department at work to put a note in your file describing the problem so that any new staff are aware of what is going on. Don't be embarrassed about it. It is never your fault that someone else will not leave you alone when told to. It's better to admit to others what is going on than to let a lack of knowledge cause serious problems for you or them later. Try not to be alone in public. When you go to the gym or walk to class, ask a friend to go with you. Don't stay at the library or at work late by yourself. Get a family member to walk the dog with you. Always park you vehicle in a well-lit area and get someone to escort you if at all possible. If you absolutely cannot find someone to be with you, carry a defensive tool like pepper spray or a panic button with you when alone. Check your states laws on protective tools to make sure you are not violating any first. Don’t make it easy for him to find you. Don't post your plans or whereabouts on social media beforehand or during. You can post about events afterwards, but never tag yourself at a geographic location while you are still there. Make a safety plan. Decide what you will do in the case of any incidents and tell a friend or family member. Note nearby police stations to drive to if you think he is following you. Create a verbal or written code you can say or text your safety person if you are in trouble. Make sure they know that this phrase means to call the police immediately. Don’t try to refute or counter every untruth. Choose the important issues to argue. Don't try to prove what he says isn't true, because it is nearly impossible unless he makes specific accusations. Just say it isn't true and let it go. If your history is full of trustworthy examples and integrity, people will believe you. If someone in your mutual circle is helping spread lies, confront them directly, but without emotion, and ask them to stop gossiping and spreading falsehoods. Don’t trash talk your ex. This will only make you look the same in the long run. Is better to stand up for yourself with integrity and resist gossiping about your ex. Own your mistakes. Make amends if possible. Doing so gives you more credibility when refuting untruths and reminds others that everyone is human and makes mistakes. Make sure your actions are not just reactions. Do not act in order to reach a specific outcome—whether to hurt him back or to get others on 'your' side. Your first priority should always be what is best for you. In each instance, explore the consequences of every option and choose either the one that has the fewest negative ones or the most positive ones for you. For example, if he is trashing you to mutual friends, think over your possible reactions and your friends might take them before blurting something out loud. Recognize that you can only control your own behavior. To constantly worry about what he will do next and how he is making your life miserable will only make you feel worse. It is destructive to focus all your energy externally and not on yourself. Stop trying to control things you cannot, and re-direct your energy towards regaining personal power. Let go of anger and resentment. These emotions will drain your energy and keep you stuck on your ex and/or the current situation. Use your energy instead for working towards the future you want for yourself and/or making your present situation more bearable. Rather than focus on what he is doing to make you unhappy now, remember why you were with him in the first place. There was a reason you liked him initially and you probably had some really good times together. When you feel angry or hurt by something he does, refocus your thoughts toward trying to understand why he acted that way. Seeing his perspective might make his actions easier to accept and move past. Practice compassion instead of judgment. Most people act negatively out of fear—the fear of being disrespected, of not being loved, or of what may go wrong. People also usually cause harm to others because they are feeling bad themselves and want to share it with you. They are under such pain that all they have to give to others is pain. Realizing this truth will help you advance on the road to compassion and forgiveness. People hurt others due to ignorance and self-concern. They justify their harmful behavior by thinking they are doing what they need to do given the circumstances in their lives. Think about your motivations before you act on any impulses. Try to acknowledge that your motivations for reacting probably initially stem from these fears or negative thoughts. Take away his power to hurt you emotionally. Nothing your ex does can bother you unless you decide to let it. You can't control his behavior or what others think about your relationship, but you can decide to not let it ruin your day. Remember that “evilness” is simply a judgment, and not really a useful one. Unless he is threatening you with physical violence or has committed a severe transgression against your general well-being, he is probably not inherently a bad person. Labeling your ex as “evil” pits you and him on opposite sides of a struggle, making him seem more powerful than he really is. Realizing you are both fallible human beings takes away any advantages you may be giving him accidentally. If he has committed violence or voices an intention to do so, however, take this very seriously and get help from professionals—police, courts, counselors, etc.
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Assess the severity of your situation. Stop all contact and communication with him. Keep a log of every attempt to contact you. Get a protective or restraining order if you feel threatened. Call 911 if you feel you are immediate danger. Tell friends, family and authority figures about your situation. Try not to be alone in public. Don’t make it easy for him to find you. Make a safety plan. Don’t try to refute or counter every untruth. Don’t trash talk your ex. Own your mistakes. Make sure your actions are not just reactions. Recognize that you can only control your own behavior. Let go of anger and resentment. Practice compassion instead of judgment. Take away his power to hurt you emotionally.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Paint-a-Fence
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How to Paint a Fence
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To paint a wooden fence, mow and edge the grass along the fence line and trim back bushes and shrubs to get them out of the way. Next, lay a drop cloth on the ground under the fence to protect the grass from paint drips. Then, make any needed repairs and pressure-wash or sand the surface of the fence so the new paint will adhere well to it. Finally, use a brush, roller, or sprayer to apply the paint to the surface in the same direction as the wood grain.
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Cut or tie back any vegetation that is making contact with the fence. Mow and edge the grass along the fence line. Trim back bushes and shrubs that touch the fence. If you don't want to trim them, use twine to tie them away from fence. Pulling vegetation away from the fence gives you space to work, protects the plants from being covered by paint, and reduces the risk of your newly painted surface being blemished by plants rubbing against it. Be sure to look for any vines that might be growing along the fence, as well. You can use a leaf blower to blow dirt and grass clippings away from the fence line. Mask off plants around the fence. You want to protect the vegetation along the fence line while readying the surface for painting. Put plastic sheeting or a drop cloth over plants that might accidentally get paint on them. Just be careful to make sure that the plant can handle the weight of whatever masking you use. You can also slide a sheet of plywood between your fence and shrubs. This protects the vegetation from paint toxins. When the surface has dried, pull out the plywood and the shrub will likely snap back naturally. Spread a drop cloth or plastic sheeting under the fence. This will protect the ground from being covered in drips or sprays of paint. Keep it in place throughout the project so it will collect residue from prep work and protect against spills. You can use either a cloth or plastic drop cloth for this job. Make repairs to the fence. If you are going to take the time to paint a fence, it's a good idea to get the fence in good shape before you do it. Replace any boards or rails that are broken beyond repair. If there are small cracks in wood boards, you can use wood glue to repair them. Also remove and then replace any loose nails, screws, or bolts. If you are painting a metal fence, consider having any broken areas re-welded or re-fabricated before painting. Pressure-wash or sand a wood fence. New, untreated fences can be either pressure washed or sanded. It's best to sand a wood fence that was painted before, in order to remove any old, loose paint. This helps the new paint adhere to the wood. If the fence has already been painted, pressure wash it first to remove any dirt, grease, or debris from the surface. Then, sand the fence to remove any wood splints. You may also want to use a scraper to remove any peeling paint from the surface of the fence. Do this before you wash and sand it. If you are sanding a previously painted fence, it's important to wear breathing protection while you work. Let the surface dry completely after pressure washing or scrubbing the fence before painting. Remove loose paint and rust from a metal fence. If you're painting iron or metal fencing, use a steel brush to remove light areas of rust and loose paint. If there are areas that are extremely rusty, you can use naval jelly to dissolve the rust. Then sand the entire surface with medium-grit sandpaper. After sanding, wipe off residue with a clean rag. It's important to wear breathing protection while sanding your metal fence. Pick a facemask that can protect you from the dust you are creating. Tape off parts of the fence you don't want to paint. Use painter's tape to keep paint off of any areas that shouldn't be painted. This typically includes things like ornaments, gate latches, and handles and other hardware. There is painter's tape that is made specifically for outdoor applications. It will stick better to parts of your fence than the type that is made to be used indoors. Pick the right paint for your wood fence. When painting a fence you need to use outdoor paint. These are specially treated to withstand the effects of weather and come in a variety of types: Acrylics: Acrylic paint is durable, providing an excellent layer of protection for your fence, but you might have to apply a primer to an untreated surface before you can paint. Oil-based outdoor paint: Oil-based paints may require multiple coats and may not protect as well as acrylics, but they do provide a superior-looking finish. Choose to use a brush, roller, or sprayer, or a combination of all three. What you choose typically depends on how much fence you need to paint. However, you should also consider what type of paint you're using and how detailed the work will be. For example, some paints are formulated to be used with either brushes or sprayers and state so on their labels. Use a sprayer for a long fence or a fence with lots of cutouts or spots that will be hard for a brush to get into. If you have a long fence, you probably will want to use a sprayer because it will allow you to complete the job quickly. A sprayer is also good at getting into every crevice, so use one if your fence has detailed scrolling work. If you have a smaller project, such as a short section of fence, you probably can complete the job using a roller on flat surfaces and a brush for detailed, inside sections. Pick a suitable day to do the painting. Certain weather conditions are ideal for fence painting. Pick a day with no rain in the forecast. Also, try to paint on a day with calm winds and ample cloud cover. Breezes can kick up debris that can stick to your paint job. Direct sunlight makes the paint dry too fast and saps its protective properties. Apply paint with the grain of the wood. If using a roller, roll it with the grain of the wood, rather than across it. Brush strokes should also go with the grain to ensure that every crevice in the wood is coated. Even if spraying you should move the sprayer in the direction of the wood grain to get into all areas of the wood. Going with the grain also helps prevent drips, as excess paint doesn't build up on the ridges of the wood as much. While it might not be possible to go with the grain for every single stroke, it's a good idea to do it as much as possible. Keep a brush handy to clean up drips. Even if you opt for a sprayer or a roller, it's important to keep a brush in arms reach. This will allow you to do any touch-up work that needs to be done right away. Choose a type of paint that will adhere to metal. There are certain paints that are specially formulated to stick to metal and it's important that you choose one that works with metal outside. Paints that work well for metal fences include: Enamels: Enamel paint is ideal for iron fencing and gates. Usually, you'll need to treat the surface with a rust-inhibiting primer. Automotive epoxy paint: The benefits of automotive epoxy are, it's a 1-step process and is very durable. You will have to mix in a hardener with this paint, which does force you to get the job done within about 6 hours. Choose to use a brush or sprayer. Because they're often intricately designed, you can paint small iron fences by hand but large areas may require spraying to get optimum coverage. A single heavy coat of enamel or automotive epoxy paint sprayed on is usually is enough to create a strong finish. If you want to spray the paint on, you need to decide between using a paint sprayer or cans of spray paint. Spray paint is only really appropriate for painting small fences. If you use brushes, be sure to use brushes that are compatible with your type of paint. For instance, if you are using enamel paint, look for brushes that say they can be used with enamel paint. In general, it's hard to paint a metal fence with a roller because there are few large, flat surfaces. The exception is chain-link fence, because you can run the roller along the surface of the fence and paint it very quickly and thoroughly. Pick a dry, temperate day to do the painting. It's important to look at the forecast before you start painting because a bit of rain or scorching hot temperatures can both negatively impact your paint job. Aim for a day that will not have rain but has overcast skies, as this will allow your paint to dry at the correct pace. Apply a primer. Most paints that are made for painting metal work best when applied over a rust-resistant primer. Choose a primer that comes in a spray can, can be sprayed with a sprayer, or that can be brushed or rolled on, whichever method you prefer. As you apply the primer, be sure that you cover every surface of the fence. Allow the primer to dry completely before applying the paint. Look at the information on your primer's container to determine how much time it will take to dry but typically it takes about 24 hours. Apply the paint to your metal fence. Start at one end of the fence and work your way down it. Make sure to paint every surface as you go and clean up any drips that happen right away. If using a sprayer or spray can, spray downwind and wear a respirator. Keep a brush handy to clean up drips. Even if you opt for a sprayer or a roller, it's important to keep a brush in arms reach. This will allow you to do any touch-up work that needs to be done right away.
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Cut or tie back any vegetation that is making contact with the fence. Mask off plants around the fence. Spread a drop cloth or plastic sheeting under the fence. Make repairs to the fence. Pressure-wash or sand a wood fence. Remove loose paint and rust from a metal fence. Tape off parts of the fence you don't want to paint. Pick the right paint for your wood fence. Choose to use a brush, roller, or sprayer, or a combination of all three. Pick a suitable day to do the painting. Apply paint with the grain of the wood. Keep a brush handy to clean up drips. Choose a type of paint that will adhere to metal. Choose to use a brush or sprayer. Pick a dry, temperate day to do the painting. Apply a primer. Apply the paint to your metal fence.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Yellow-Stains-from-Plastic
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How to Remove Yellow Stains from Plastic
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To remove yellow stains from plastic, try scrubbing it with common household items, like lemon juice, salt, or baking soda. If you decide to use lemon juice, cut a lemon in half and rub it on the affected area. Once the stain is covered in juice, take the item outside and let it sit in the sun for a few hours before rinsing it. For baking soda, make a paste by mixing it with water, then apply it to the stains. Let the plastic sit for a few hours before using a sponge or towel to rub the paste into the stain. After you've scrubbed the stain, rinse the paste off with warm water. In order to clean your plastic with salt, rub it into the stain with a damp cloth until the discoloration begins to fade.
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Cover the stains in rubbing alcohol to dissolve them. If the yellow stains are in a plastic container, you can pour rubbing alcohol into it and let the rubbing alcohol sit for a few minutes. If the piece of plastic can't hold liquid, pour rubbing alcohol into another container and put the piece of plastic inside. Rinse the piece of plastic with soap and water after pouring out the rubbing alcohol. If you don't have rubbing alcohol, you can also use hand sanitizer the same way. Dissolve denture tablets in hot water to fix the discoloration. Purchase denture tablets at a drugstore or big box store and dissolve 2 tablets into hot water. Pour the mixture into or onto the stained plastic and let it sit until the stains are gone. Rinse the plastic off with soap and water. You can also use alka seltzer as a substitute for denture tablets, as it will work similarly. Try using bleach for a strong whitening product. Mix 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of bleach per 1 cup (240 ml) of water. Cover the plastic in the bleach solution and let it sit for 1-2 hours. Rinse the plastic with soap and water after you pour the bleach out. Test the bleach out on a small section of the plastic before covering it entirely to make sure it doesn't harm the plastic in any way. Use white vinegar if you’re concerned about using bleach. White vinegar works wonders on plastic similarly to bleach, without it being as harmful. Mix 1 part white vinegar with 1 part water before pouring the mixture into or onto your plastic. Let the plastic sit with the white vinegar for a couple of hours before rinsing it clean with soap and water. If you're trying to remove stains from a piece of plastic that can't hold liquids, pour the white vinegar mixture into a container and then set the piece of plastic inside. The vinegar smell will disappear once the plastic is washed and left to dry. Coat the plastic in hydrogen peroxide to fix discoloration. Hydrogen peroxide works well on plastics that have turned entirely yellow instead of in just one spot. Fill a plastic bag with enough hydrogen peroxide to cover the plastic. Stick the plastic in the bag of hydrogen peroxide and lay it out in direct sunlight. Wait 3-4 hours before rinsing it off with clean water. You can purchase hydrogen peroxide at a drugstore or big box store. If you're treating some sort of plastic mechanism, make sure you remove all the parts that aren't plastic before putting it into the hydrogen peroxide. You can also use an old toothbrush to scrub the hydrogen peroxide onto the plastic, if desired. Rinse the plastic thoroughly to remove the liquid. Once you've removed the stain with your chosen liquid, use clean running water to rinse the liquid off of the plastic. You can also use soap if desired. If the stain didn't come off, you can reapply the same liquid and follow the same process, or you can try out a different method to see if it works better. Brush salt onto the stain using a damp cloth to help rub it away. Dampen a cloth or towel with warm water. Sprinkle salt all over the cloth, or pour the salt directly onto the plastic. Use the cloth to rub the salt into the plastic, helping to remove the stain. Keep rubbing until you see the stain disappear. Rinse the plastic with clean water once you're finished. Create a baking soda paste to use on the yellow stains. Pour some baking soda into a small cup or similar container. Add water slowly, mixing it with the baking soda until it forms a paste. You can apply the baking soda paste to the plastic before letting it sit on the plastic for a few hours. Use a sponge or paper towel to rub the paste onto the stain before rinsing it off. Rub lemon juice onto the plastic to let the sun fix the stains. Cut a fresh lemon in half using a knife and then start rubbing the lemon over the plastic so that the juice covers the stains. Bring the plastic outside and let it sit in the sun for a few hours to an entire day. The sunlight should help remove the yellow stains. Make sure you spread the lemon juice into the nooks and crannies of a stained piece of plastic, such as the yellowing marks on a cutting board. Test out store-bought products to see if one works well. Some cleaning products that you would buy at a big box or home improvement store will work on yellow stains. Look for products targeting the type of yellow stain your plastic has to see if a certain chemical product might work. Follow the directions, often using a paper towel or cloth to rub the product onto the stains. A magic eraser can sometimes work on yellow stains, as do many cleaning powders. Wash the plastic thoroughly to remove the scrubbing materials. Use clean running water, and soap, if desired, to wash off the cleaning liquids and/or pastes. If the stain wasn't removed the first time, you can repeat the same process and scrub the plastic again.
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Cover the stains in rubbing alcohol to dissolve them. Dissolve denture tablets in hot water to fix the discoloration. Try using bleach for a strong whitening product. Use white vinegar if you’re concerned about using bleach. Coat the plastic in hydrogen peroxide to fix discoloration. Rinse the plastic thoroughly to remove the liquid. Brush salt onto the stain using a damp cloth to help rub it away. Create a baking soda paste to use on the yellow stains. Rub lemon juice onto the plastic to let the sun fix the stains. Test out store-bought products to see if one works well. Wash the plastic thoroughly to remove the scrubbing materials.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-a-Sprain-During-First-Aid
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How to Treat a Sprain During First Aid
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To treat a sprain during first aid, apply ice wrapped in a towel or a bag of frozen vegetables to the injured area as soon as possible to reduce swelling. Then, compress the sprain by wrapping a bandage around the joint, which will help protect the area from further damage. Once you've iced and wrapped the sprain, you should elevate the sprayed joint above chest-height for 2 to 3 hours a day to prevent swelling. You should also rest and avoid strenuous exercise like running or cycling for 72 hours, even if your joint starts to feel better, to avoid further damage.
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Use the RICE approach recommended by first aid professionals. RICE stands for Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate. Incorporate all aspects of this treatment to recover in a timely manner and reduce initial pain and swelling. Rest the injured joint by not using it, unless absolutely necessary. Rest is essential to the healing process and to avoid unnecessary pain from the injury. If you must use the joint (e.g., walking), do so with caution and extra support. Use crutches to walk if you sprained an ankle or knee. Wear a sling for wrist or arm sprains. Wrap a splint around a sprained finger or toe and attach it to the digit next to it. Don't avoid all physical activity because of the sprain, but avoid direct use of the injured joint for at least 48 hours or until the pain subsides. If you are involved in sports, talk to your coach, trainer or doctor about when you can return to sports. Ice the injured area as quickly as possible. Using an ice pack or cold compress, apply pressure to the injury for up to 3 days until the swelling goes down. Use any form of frozen compress such as ice cubes in a plastic bag, reusable chemical ice packs, a frozen towel, or even bags of frozen vegetables in a pinch. Administer ice treatment within 30 minutes of your injury if possible. Do not apply ice directly to the skin—use a towel or cloth to protect your tissues. Reapply the ice or cold compress every 20–30 minutes throughout the day. Remove the ice or cold compress after treatment and let your skin return to its normal temperature before the next round. Apply the ice or cold compress long enough that you begin to feel the area ache and become slightly numb—this may be 15–20 minutes—which will help reduce pain. Compress the sprain with a bandage or wrap. This will keep the injured area protected and supported. Wrap the joint tightly but not so tight that your limb becomes numb or tingly. Use a brace for ankles, which may be more effective than a bandage or wrap. Look for elastic bandages or wraps to provide the best support and flexibility. Find supportive athletic tape as an alternative to bandages if necessary. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are unsure what type of wrap to use or how to use it. Elevate the sprained joint above your heart, if possible. Elevation helps minimize or prevent swelling. Try to keep the injured body part elevated for 2 to 3 hours each day. Sit or lie down with the injured knee or ankle propped up on a cushion. Use a sling for wrist or arm sprains to bring the limb above the heart. Sleep with your injured arm or leg propped on 1-2 pillows if you are able to. Raise the injured part to the same level as your heart if more elevation is impossible. Beware of any feelings of numbness or tingling and reposition your injured joint if you do; consult a doctor if this continues. Treat your injury with over-the-counter pain relievers. These can help with pain and inflammation caused by your sprain. However, avoid aspirin, as this promotes bleeding and can therefore cause complications and extreme discoloration of the skin. Look for NSAIDS including ibuprofen (e.g., Advil) or Aleve, which are usually recommended for sprains due to their anti-inflammatory properties. You can also take acetaminophen (e.g., Tylenol) products for pain. Consult a doctor or pharmacist for dosage and the most effective product for you. Ask a doctor or pharmacist about taking these pain relievers if you already take other prescription medications. Follow the product label for dosage and frequency. Be aware of the potential side effects of over-the-counter pain relievers. >. Use pain relievers together with all aspects of the RICE therapy. Handle your pain through homeopathic treatments. Although these therapies are not scientifically proven to help ease pain, many people find them helpful. The spice called turmeric is known for its anti-inflammatory properties—mix 2 tablespoons with 1 tablespoon of lime juice and some water into a paste and apply it to the injured joint, then wrap with a bandage for several hours. Find epsom salts at your pharmacy—mix a cup of salts with warm water in a tub or bucket, let them dissolve, and soak the injured joint for 30 minutes up to several times of day. Spread the herbal arnica salve or cream (available at pharmacies) on the injured joint to reduce inflammation and swelling as well as increase circulation; wrap with a bandage after application. Avoid certain activities than can cause further problems. For the first 72 hours after your injury, it's essential to be especially cautious. Keep out of hot water—no hot baths, hot tubs, saunas, or hot compresses. Abstain from drinking alcohol, as it increases swelling and bleeding and slows healing. Take a break from strenuous exercise like running, cycling, and other similar sports. Save the massages until the healing phase, as it can promote swelling and bleeding. Visit a doctor if the injury does not improve within 72 hours or if you experience symptoms of a broken bone. Anything beyond a simple sprain should be evaluated by medical professionals. Call for medical assistance if you cannot put any weight on the injured limb, as it may be a sign of an especially bad sprain or a broken bone. Avoid trying to tough it out—it's not worth the risk if the injury is worse than you think. Don't attempt to diagnose your injury yourself. Seek medical advice to avoid prolonged suffering and/or more injuries and pain resulting from the original sprain. Make note of the symptoms of broken bones. Several characteristics are possible symptoms of a break and the injured party and/or their caretaker should consider them. If you have any of these symptoms, you should seek medical attention. Notice any inability to move the injured joint or limb. Be aware of numbness, tingling, or extreme swelling in the injured joint. Look for open wounds associated with the injury. Recall whether you heard a popping sound when you were injured. Observe the joint or limb for deformity. Note any tenderness to a specific bone in the joint (point tenderness) or significant bruising to the area. Observe the injury for signs of infection. Any hint of infection needs to be treated immediately to keep it from spreading and making you ill. Look for open cuts or skin abrasions around the injury that could introduce infection. Beware of having a fever within the first hours to first few days of your injury. Examine the injured joint or limb for signs of redness or red streaks branching out from the injured spot. Feel the injured area for warmth or an increase in swelling, a typical sign of infection.
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Use the RICE approach recommended by first aid professionals. Rest the injured joint by not using it, unless absolutely necessary. Ice the injured area as quickly as possible. Compress the sprain with a bandage or wrap. Elevate the sprained joint above your heart, if possible. Treat your injury with over-the-counter pain relievers. Handle your pain through homeopathic treatments. Avoid certain activities than can cause further problems. Visit a doctor if the injury does not improve within 72 hours or if you experience symptoms of a broken bone. Make note of the symptoms of broken bones. Observe the injury for signs of infection.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Shelter-a-Horse
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How to Shelter a Horse
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To shelter a horse, you can build a simple, three-sided structure with a waterproof roof to protect your horse from the elements. Be sure to provide at least 100 square feet per horse and include partitions between individual stalls if you have multiple horses. Next, put down rubber mats for flooring and cover the mats with layers of straw or wood shavings to create soft bedding. Then, muck out the shelter every day to keep it clean and sanitary for your horse. Finally, inspect the structure regularly to make sure it's sound, safe, and rust-free.
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Build a three-sided shelter to protect your horse from the elements. At a minimum, a horse should have access to a three-sided shelter with a waterproof roof. To provide maximum protection against drafts, place the structure against the prevailing winds in your area. For example, if winds typically blow from the north and west, position the shelter so the open side faces the southeast. The three-sided shed should be big enough to fully cover all the horses that you keep in your field. The horses should also be able to turn around while still remaining protected. Provide at least a hundred square feet per horse. The recommended stall size for an average horse is 12 by 12 feet (about 4 by 4 meters). The ceiling should be 8 to 10 feet (about 2.5 to 3 meters) tall, or offer at least a foot (about 30 centimeters) of space above the horse's head. The more time your horse spends in the stall, the larger it should be. Include partitions between individual stalls. If you'll be housing multiple horses in your basic shelter, each 12 by 12 foot stall should be separated by partitions. The partitions should be at least 8 feet tall (2.5 meters), and should be flush with the subfloor to prevent crevices that could catch a horse's hoof. The subfloor is the flooring material, such as concrete or dirt, that lies below the upper layers of bedding. The partitions between stalls should allow the horses to see each other, as well as airflow between stalls. Make sure that the partitions are strong enough to keep the horses safe, though. They should not be able to get anything caught between stalls, whether that is a hoof, head, or halter. Cover the floor with soft bedding. Rubber matting covered by layers of straw or wood shavings is a popular choice of bedding. While they can rest standing up, horses need to lie down in order to fall into a deep sleep. Soft bedding will allow for proper rest and is easier on your horse's hooves. Straw is a good, affordable choice, but might require more maintenance. It can get moldy, and horses often eat it, so you might have to replace it more frequently than wood shavings. Build an enclosed structure on high ground to promote good drainage. Choose the highest available spot on your property. Remove vegetation, roots, and topsoil, and compact the subsoil below to prevent settling. Cover the compacted subsoil with 4 to 5 inches (10 to 13 centimeters) of gravel, 2 inches (5 centimeters) of sand or pea gravel, and at least 4 inches (10 centimeters) of stall flooring material, such as straw or wood shavings. To compact the subsoil, smooth it with a rake or shovel, then stamp on it wearing your heaviest pair of work boots. Spray the area evenly with a hose, let the water soak in, then repeat the process until the ground is hard and level. Provide ventilation with windows and openings at the eave. Poor ventilation is a health risk, so each individual stall in your indoor stable should have a window that opens. Above each stall, there should be a permanent opening at the eave, which is where the sidewall meets the roof. Prevent birds and other unwanted animals from entering the stable by covering the eave openings with wire mesh. Ideally each end of the barn should have big barn doors for extra ventilation, temperature control, and emergency exits for the horses. Reduce the risk of fire. Eliminate fuel sources, such as baled hay, extra bedding, cobwebs, dust, and excess vegetation growing around the stable. Have the stable professionally wired, and keep all lights covered instead of using bare lightbulbs. If possible, store baled hay and extra bedding in a separate structure. Clean the stable daily, sweep away cobwebs and dust, and keep the area around the stable well-mowed. You should also keep a working smoke or heat detector in the stable. Keep an eye on all wiring, as small vermin such as mice and voles may chew on them and make them a fire hazard. Muck out the shelter every day. You'll need to muck out, or clean, your horse's shelter daily. Use a shovel or rake to get rid of obvious piles of manure. Once you've removed large manure piles, rake out and replace wet, dirty straw or wood shavings. On average, one horse produce produces 54 pounds (about 25 kilograms) of manure a day, so it's a good idea to set up a manure management system, such as composting. You may be able to sell the manure as compost to area neighbors if your horses are producing manure faster than you can use. Multiple locations may need to be set up for the manure and shavings to decompose to prevent it from being an eyesore or getting too large. Choose a suitable site for composting. Your composting site should be on high ground and covered with a tarp when you're not turning, airing, or adding to it. It should be located at minimum recommended distances from these sensitive areas: 50 to 100 feet (15 to 30 meters) from your property line 200 to 500 feet (about 60 to 150 meters) from a residence or place of business 100 to 200 feet (30 to 60 meters) from a source of potable water, stream, pond, or wetland Inspect the shelter for holes and hazards regularly. Check for cracks or holes in the roof and other weatherproofing issues routinely. When you muck out the shelter, look for hazards like exposed nails and other sharp objects. Check lighting fixtures, switches, and wires for signs of wear, and make sure all of these are out of your horse's access. If you're checking a three-sided shed in a field, make sure the structure remains sound and all of the bolts are solidly in place with no rust. Make sure there is nothing protruding that a horse could cut itself on if it is startled or scared.
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Build a three-sided shelter to protect your horse from the elements. Provide at least a hundred square feet per horse. Include partitions between individual stalls. Cover the floor with soft bedding. Build an enclosed structure on high ground to promote good drainage. Provide ventilation with windows and openings at the eave. Reduce the risk of fire. Muck out the shelter every day. Choose a suitable site for composting. Inspect the shelter for holes and hazards regularly.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Stir-Fry
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How to Stir Fry
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To make a stir fry, start by heating a wok or pan over a stovetop until it sizzles when you splash it with water. Then, add a little oil to the pan and some seasonings, like salt, pepper, and ginger. If you want meat in your stir fry, add it to the pan and cook it for 5 minutes. Next, add vegetables like broccoli, snow peas, and carrots and let them cook for a few minutes. Finish your stir fry by mixing in a sauce like soy sauce and letting it cook for 3-4 more minutes.
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Prepare your meat or protein by cutting it into thin strips. Stir fry dishes certainly don't require the inclusion of meat, so if you're vegetarian, feel free to make a stir fry with a substitute like tofu or with just vegetables. If you are including meat (or tofu, etc.) in your recipe, begin by cutting it into small, thin pieces so that it cooks quickly. Speed is key when it comes to stir fry cooking - you'll want your ingredients, especially any meat, to cook as quickly as possible. Prepare your vegetables as needed. Most stir fry dishes include vegetables of some sort. As with your meat, you'll want your vegetable pieces to be fairly small and thin so that they'll cook quickly. This means that any peppers should be cut into thin slices, any onions should be chopped up, etc. Below are just a few of the vegetables you might consider adding to your stir fry - feel free to add more as you please! Bell peppers Hotter pepper varieties (red peppers, etc.) Water chestnuts Onions Carrots (sliced or cut thin) Broccoli Garlic Pea pods (especially thin snow peas) Heat up your pan or wok. Traditionally, stir fry dishes are cooked in a steep, sloping style of cooking pan called a wok. However, it's possible to use flat-bottomed Western style pans as well. All that's important is that pan is made from sturdy metal and that it has room for all of your ingredients. Set your pan (with no ingredients yet inside it) over a stovetop burner on medium-high heat for about 1 to 2 minutes. Usually, a wok is at the right temperature when it starts smoking. You can also test your pan's heat by tossing a drop of water in - if the water droplet sizzles and boils away immediately or "dances", your pan is hot enough. Put a small amount of oil (1-2 tablespoons) in your wok. You won't typically need much oil - you're stir frying, not deep frying. At this point, you'll also want to add any seasoning and/or spices you're using in your dish. You have many options here. You may, for instance, choose to drop in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or add a dash of a liquid ingredient like soy sauce to the oil for a classic flavor. The choice is yours - below are just a few more suggestions! Sherry or rice wine Minced garlic or garlic powder Salt and pepper Ginger (if using, take care not to burn) Add your meat, stirring frequently. If you're including meat or another protein source, add it first. If your pan is hot enough, it will sear very quickly. Once an initial sear is obtained, keep the meat in motion, stirring very frequently until it is just cooked through. This usually requires about 5 minutes. Note that the addition of meat will lower the temperature of your pan temporarily. To counteract this, you may want to turn the burner up slightly for a minute or so. Add slow-cooking vegetables next. When your meat is just barely done, you'll want to start adding your vegetables. Start with thick, firm vegetables that take a relatively long time to cook - you'll want to give these a head start of several minutes to soften up before adding the other veggies. Below are a few common vegetables that may take extra time to cook: Broccoli Snow peas Carrots Onions Add faster-cooking vegetables last. Next, add the rest of your vegetables. These veggies shouldn't take more than a few minutes to soften. Vegetables you may add at this point include: Bean sprouts Mushrooms Any vegetables from a pre-cooked or ready-made package Add any stir fry sauce you are using at the very end. Finally, add any sauce you desire to your stir fry. While you may previously have added a dash or so of liquid flavor, you'll now want to add the main portion. However, it is best to be fairly conservative with your sauces. Try not to add too much sauce at once, as this can make the vegetables soggy in addition to lowering the heat of the wok. Below are a few examples of sauces you may want to add at this point. Soy sauce Peanut sauce Oyster sauce Cook for 3-4 minutes. Give your stir fry a chance to cook and reduce slightly. Continue to stir as needed - if you're confident, you can even "flip" your ingredients with a quick wrist motion every once in a while. After just a few minutes, the vegetables and sauce should be done. Serve. Congratulations - you've just made your first stir fry dish. Enjoy your stir fry on its own or use one of the ideas provided below to round out your meal! Try serving with rice. What use would this article be without mention of this ubiquitous Asian staple food? Rice provides a neutral, filling carbohydrate base for the veggies, meat, and sauce in your stir fry. Stir fry and rice can make a great, full meal on their own or serve as the main course of a larger culinary experience. You have tons of options when it comes to rice - not only are there many different types of rice to choose from (brown, red, jasmine, basmati, and so on), but there are also many different ways to prepare rice. For instance, try fried rice for a hearty treat or opt for plain brown rice for maximum nutrients. Try serving over Asian noodles. Another great carbohydrate to go along with stir fry is noodles. Traditionally, of course, stir fries are paired with Asian varieties of noodles, but there's no rule preventing you from using other sorts of noodles. If you're adventurous, you can even apply stir fry techniques to Italian pasta dishes - you're only limited by your own imagination! Try stir-frying bok choy for a healthy alternative. The procedure above details a "generalized" sort of stir fry - in truth, there are countless dishes prepared in this style, each with their own unique flavor. One of the most famous of these is bok choy, a dish made from Chinese cabbage. Not only is this dish packed with delicious flavor - it's also fairly nutritious and low in calories. Put your stir fry knowledge to the test by frying up this great dish as a side or snack!
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Prepare your meat or protein by cutting it into thin strips. Prepare your vegetables as needed. Heat up your pan or wok. Put a small amount of oil (1-2 tablespoons) in your wok. Add your meat, stirring frequently. Add slow-cooking vegetables next. Add faster-cooking vegetables last. Add any stir fry sauce you are using at the very end. Cook for 3-4 minutes. Serve. Try serving with rice. Try serving over Asian noodles. Try stir-frying bok choy for a healthy alternative.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Liquid-Smoke
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How to Use Liquid Smoke
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Liquid smoke is a versatile ingredient you can use in your favorite food or drinks to add some extra flavor. One easy way to use liquid smoke is to add 1 teaspoon to some chili or stew you're cooking. Or, mix a few drops into your burger mix or meatloaf before you cook it. If you're broiling, grilling, or sautéing meat or poultry, brush it with liquid smoke first for a smoky flavor. Alternatively, mix a few drops into a sauce or marinade. You can also use liquid smoke in drinks. Just add a few drops to your favorite cocktail, like a Manhattan. Or mix a few drops into straight bourbon for a smoother flavor.
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Add 1/2 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon (30 ml) to chili or stews. To add a little smokiness to your favorite chili or beef stew, stir in 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) of liquid smoke. For a stronger flavor, add 1 tablespoon (30 ml). Liquid smoke is a great way to add a depth of flavor to vegetarian stews or chili. For quick baked beans that taste as though they've been cooking all day, stir in 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) to your flavored baked beans. Brush liquid smoke over roasts, tofu, or fish. If you'll be broiling, grilling, or sautéing meat or poultry, dip a brush in the liquid smoke and brush it over the food before you cook it. Try brushing steaks, chops, or roasts. You can also season tofu or fish. If you forgot to season the food with the liquid smoke before cooking it, shred the meat and stir a little liquid smoke in until it's combined. Mix a few drops of liquid smoke into burgers or meatloaf. Follow the recipe to combine your standard meatloaf or burger mixture. Add 2 to 3 drops of liquid smoke and toss the ground meat mixture until it's just combined. Form the burgers or meatloaf and cook them as usual. For a stronger smoke flavor, increase the liquid smoke to 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml). Stir 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) liquid smoke into fondue. Heat 6 ounces (170 g) of your favorite melting cheese in a saucepan over medium-low. Stir in 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of water, 1 tablespoon (15 g) of mustard, 1 pinch of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) of liquid smoke. Once the cheese melts, whisk in 2 beaten eggs and cook the fondue for 5 minutes. Serve the smoky fondue with: Crackers Celery and carrot sticks Smoked sausage Steamed vegetables Baguette Stir together a basic marinade with a few drops of liquid smoke. If you have time to flavor meat, fish, or vegetables before cooking them, marinate them in a mixture that contains liquid smoke. Whisk together the marinade and coat the food completely. You'll need: ¼ cup (60 ml) of soy sauce 3 tablespoons (21 g) of honey 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of distilled white vinegar 1 ½ teaspoons (3 g) of garlic powder 1 ½ teaspoons (3 g) of ground ginger ¾ cup (180 ml) of vegetable oil 1 teaspoon (2 g) of black pepper 2 to 3 drops of liquid smoke Mix up a quick barbecue sauce. Stir 2 teaspoons (10 ml) of liquid smoke into every 1 cup (240 g) of prepared barbecue sauce for an instant smoky flavor. To make your own barbecue sauce, sauté 3 diced onions with 3 cloves of minced garlic until they're tender. Stir in and simmer 3 cups (720 g) of ketchup, 1/2 cup (100 g) of brown sugar, 1/3 cup (80 ml) of white vinegar, and 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of liquid smoke. Cook the barbecue sauce until it's as thick as you like. For a spicier ketchup, add 2 tablespoons (30 g) of Dijon mustard and 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of hot sauce. Use 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of liquid smoke to add flavor to your brine. Heat the brine ingredients in a saucepan over medium heat until the sugar is dissolved. Stir 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of liquid hickory smoke and cool the brine solution to room temperature before using it. Refrigerate a turkey or large roast in the solution for up to 24 hours before draining and cooking the food. For the brine, combine: 2 cups (473 ml) of water 1/2 cup (120 g) of kosher salt 1/3 cup (66 g) of sugar 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of maple syrup 1 tablespoon (6 g) of mustard seed 2 tablespoons (18 g) of black peppercorns 1 tablespoon (8 g) of chili powder 8 cloves of smashed garlic Make a savory sauce for rice or pasta. Sauté 1/4 cup (40 g) of chopped onion with 2 tablespoons (20 g) of chopped green pepper and 3 cloves of minced garlic over medium-high heat for 5 minutes. Open and stir in 2 cans of crushed tomatoes, 1 can of tomato sauce, 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of liquid smoke, 1 1/2 teaspoons (3 g) of Italian seasoning, and ground pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a boil and then turn it down to a simmer. Simmer the sauce for 1 hour before serving it over steamed rice or cooked pasta. If you want to add meat, brown 1 pound (453 g) of ground beef and stir it into the sauce. Marinate a turkey for smoky flavor. Put a 10 to 12-pound (4.5 to 5.5 kg) turkey into a large plastic roasting bag. Mix together 2 quarts (1.9 liters) of water with 3.5 ounces (103 ml) of liquid smoke and pour it into the bag. Turn the turkey so it's coated in the marinade. Seal the bag and refrigerate the turkey overnight. To roast the turkey, drain the marinade and pat the turkey dry with paper towels. Put the turkey in a roasting pan and cook it for 3 1/2 to 4 hours at 350 °F (177 °C). Add 2 to 3 drops of liquid smoke to caramel candies. Cook a batch of soft caramel on the stove and stir a little liquid smoke into the caramel mixture when you add the vanilla extract. Measure 2 to 3 drops of liquid smoke into a measuring spoon and then fill up the spoon with the vanilla extract. Finish making the caramel candy and spread it in a prepared baking dish to cool. Squirting a few drops of liquid smoke into the measuring spoon instead of directly into the pan will prevent you from accidentally adding too much. Stir liquid smoke into caramel sauce. Make your favorite caramel sauce using a wet or dry sugar method. Once the caramel has cooked into a sauce, stir in equal parts of vanilla extract and liquid smoke just before you whisk in the heavy cream. For example, if your recipe calls for adding 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of vanilla extract, add 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of liquid smoke too. Replace flavor extracts in baking. If you want to add a subtle smoky flavor to cookies or brownies, swap out half of the vanilla or almond extract called for in the recipe with liquid smoke. For example, if your chocolate chip cookie recipe calls for 1 1/2 teaspoons (7 ml) of vanilla extract, use 3/4 teaspoon (3.5 ml) of vanilla and 3/4 teaspoon (3.5 ml) of liquid smoke. The smoky flavor would pair well with peanut butter cookies, brownies, or hazelnut chocolate cookies. Stir a few drops into a Manhattan cocktail. For a simple and sophisticated take on a classic cocktail, shake 2 to 3 dashes of liquid smoke into a cocktail shaker. Pour in 1 ounce (30 ml) of sweet vermouth, 2 ounces (60 ml) of rye whiskey, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. Add ice and stir the cocktail for 10 seconds. Strain the drink into a cocktail glass and serve it with a lemon twist. Make your inexpensive bourbon taste like aged bourbon. If you want to improve the flavor of bourbon you bought, open your 25-ounce (750-ml) bottle and pour in 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of dry sherry, 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) of vanilla, and 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) of liquid smoke. Screw on the lid and shake the bourbon to combine the ingredients. Drink your aged bourbon neat, on the rocks, or in your favorite cocktail. The liquid smoke won't add a smoky flavor to the bourbon. Instead, it will smooth out any rough flavors.
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Add 1/2 teaspoon to 1 tablespoon (30 ml) to chili or stews. Brush liquid smoke over roasts, tofu, or fish. Mix a few drops of liquid smoke into burgers or meatloaf. Stir 1/2 teaspoon (2.5 ml) liquid smoke into fondue. Stir together a basic marinade with a few drops of liquid smoke. Mix up a quick barbecue sauce. Use 3 tablespoons (45 ml) of liquid smoke to add flavor to your brine. Make a savory sauce for rice or pasta. Marinate a turkey for smoky flavor. Add 2 to 3 drops of liquid smoke to caramel candies. Stir liquid smoke into caramel sauce. Replace flavor extracts in baking. Stir a few drops into a Manhattan cocktail. Make your inexpensive bourbon taste like aged bourbon.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Fill-Out-a-Quitclaim-Deed
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How to Fill Out a Quitclaim Deed
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A quitclaim deed is a relatively simple and easy way to transfer interest you may have in a property to someone else. Check your state court's website to find your quitclaim form. To fill in the form, you'll need to know the legal description of the property and its tax status, which you can get from the county recorder's office. You may also need to know the parcel number, which is on the property deed. Most states will require you to get the form notarized with everyone's signatures. Once everyone's signed the form, record the deed with the nearest county recorder to the property's location. Keep in mind that a quitclaim deed only transfers any interest you have at the time of the transfer and not your mortgage.
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Find the legal description of the property. The easiest way to get the correct legal description for the property you want to transfer is to go to the county recorder's office in the county where the property is located and get the existing deed for the property. While you should also include the address, the full legal description of the property can eliminate any future confusion. You'll need a copy of the existing deed on the property, and you'll want to copy the property description exactly as it appears on that document in your quitclaim deed form. Keep in mind that if you don't include a legal description, the deed could be challenged by someone else with an interest in the property, which could result in a judge rejecting the transfer. Check the tax status of the property. Transferring property doesn't necessarily transfer the tax obligation, and in most states the property taxes must be up to date if you want to transfer any interest in the property. Transferring your interest in the property may have nothing to do with property taxes, particularly if someone else was already paying the property taxes on the property. If that is the case, tax statements typically will continue to be sent to the person to whom they've been sent in the past. However, if you paid the property taxes on the property, you'll have to make sure the taxes are paid in full up to the date of the transfer, and that the tax liability is transferred appropriately. If you're unsure about the tax status of the property, you can check the county recorder or tax assessor's records for the property, or look on the most recent property tax statement. Any questions regarding the transfer of property taxes and future tax liability should be directed to an accountant or tax professional. Decide when you want the transfer to take place. While typically if you're filling out a quitclaim deed you want the transfer to take place immediately upon execution of the document, you also can date it so that the transfer doesn't occur until a later date, or even at the occurrence of a specified event. You may want to use a quitclaim deed to transfer the property to someone else at your death. However, check your state's property laws or talk to an attorney before you do this. In some states, you need to use a transfer on death deed rather than a quitclaim deed. The documents you use also may depend on whether the property is addressed in your estate planning documents. In situations where you intend to make the transfer conditional on a certain event happening, or set the transfer to occur on a future date, you may want to consult a property law attorney to make sure you're filling out the form correctly to achieve your intended result. Confirm you're using the right kind of deed. Quitclaim deeds are most frequently used between family members or co-owners of property who are already familiar with the property itself as well as with each other. Keep in mind that a quitclaim deed comes with no guarantee regarding the ownership interest you may have in the property. You may have no interest at all, and that may match the intent of the transfer. For example, if there's some question as to whether you might have a claim to the property as a result of some confusion in the current owner's estate documents, but you don't want the property, you might use a quitclaim deed to negate any possible claim the probate judge decides you have in the property. On the other hand, if the person to whom you're transferring the property is under the impression that you have a particular ownership interest in the property, a quitclaim deed may not be the right vehicle of transfer. In that situation, the other party may want a little more of a guarantee that they're getting exactly what they think they are. A quitclaim deed also may not be the appropriate document if you are actually selling the property and a significant amount of money will be changing hands. Search for forms or templates. Most states have fillable forms available online in PDF format that you can download. Check the website of the state court system or of the county recorder. You also can find forms from legal document websites and services. These forms typically are identical throughout the state, so if your county recorder doesn't have a website you may be able to find a form that would work by searching by the name of your state. While you can easily find forms online, you still need to make sure the form you're using is approved in your state. For this reason, the easiest thing to do is find a form with the county recorder. The form is available free of charge and you automatically know you can use it to achieve the transfer you want. Enter information about the property. The form you use typically will indicate the type of information you need about the property, in addition to the street address. You may need the parcel number, or to copy a metes and bounds or other description from any existing deed associated with the property. If a parcel number is required, you typically can find this information on the existing deed for the property or on a property tax statement. Make sure you copy the legal description of the property exactly. This covers the specific legal boundary lines of the property and will be necessary in the event of a boundary dispute, so it's important that all deeds list the same description. Provide names and addresses for the grantor and the grantee. Since you are transferring your interest in the property, you are called the "grantor." The person to whom you're transferring that interest is called the "grantee." For the grantee, you will need to include their full legal name and the address of their legal residence, even if they currently live on the property you're transferring to them. For yourself, you must include your full legal name and the address of your current legal residence. Fill in information about the transfer. A quitclaim deed simply transfers any interest you have in the property – even if you have no interest at all. However, in some states you'll need to note whether mineral rights are included. Keep in mind that a quitclaim deed only transfers any interest you have at the time of the transfer. This means if you have a mortgage on the property, you typically are still responsible for that mortgage unless you make other arrangements. The quitclaim deed in and of itself does not make the grantee responsible for that mortgage. Most states do not allow you to transfer an interest you don't acquire until after the date of the transfer. So if you date your quitclaim deed before you've actually acquired any interest in the property, you will retain that interest and the quitclaim deed won't transfer anything. You also must address the amount of money changing hands. It may be that the transfer doesn't involve any money at all, which is often the case if you're merely clearing title among joint owners of property or family members. However, in many states the quitclaim deed still includes a recital wherein at least one dollar must be exchanged to transfer real property. In legal terms, this is called symbolic consideration or nominal consideration. The language is based on the basic precept of contract law that a contract (including a deed for the transfer of property) is not valid without consideration. Determine your state's legal requirements. States differ regarding who must sign a deed for it to be legally valid. At a minimum you must sign it, and some states require the grantee to sign it as well. Nearly all states require the deed to be signed in front of an authorized notary public. Some states also require one or two witnesses in addition to the notary. If you're unsure of the laws in your state, you can get information at the county recorder's office. The same information also may be available on the county recorder's website. Another way to find out the legal requirements is simply to look at the form. If the form you used was created or approved by your state government, it will have blanks for the requisite witnesses or notary to sign. Find a notary public. Typically any document transferring real property must, at a minimum, be signed in the presence of a notary. The notary public verifies the identity of those who sign the document, but they don't review the contents of the document itself. Notaries are public servants who often work in city or county clerk's offices and courts. You also can find a notary at banks, or many real estate and law offices. While you don't have to be a client or account holder at the bank or office to use the notary, many banks offer notary services free of charge to their customers. Ordinarily, you should expect to pay a few dollars for the notary's services. They will need to verify your identification, so bring along a state-issued or military ID, passport, or other government-issued photo ID. Sign the deed. While you're in the presence of the notary, all individuals required to sign the deed must sign and date it. The date you sign the deed doesn't have to be the date the transfer takes effect. After the notary checks your ID and logs the required information, you will need to sign your quitclaim deed. If your state requires a signature from the grantee, or from witnesses, they must sign after you. Finally, the notary public will sign and affix their seal to the deed. When all signatures and seals are on the document, you should make at least two copies – one for your records and one for the grantee's records. You'll want to take the original to the county recorder's office and record it. Record the deed. Although it typically isn't legally required that you record your quitclaim deed, if it isn't recorded no one will know that the transfer took place. This can cause problems if, for example, the grantee attempts to get a mortgage on the property. The deed should be recorded with the county recorder in the same county where the property is located. You'll be charged a fee to record the deed, typically less than $100.
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Find the legal description of the property. Check the tax status of the property. Decide when you want the transfer to take place. Confirm you're using the right kind of deed. Search for forms or templates. Enter information about the property. Provide names and addresses for the grantor and the grantee. Fill in information about the transfer. Determine your state's legal requirements. Find a notary public. Sign the deed. Record the deed.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Buy-a-House-at-Auction
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How to Buy a House at Auction
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To buy a house at auction, start by checking if the auction allows financed bidders or if it's cash only. If it's cash only, you'll need to pay for the house in cash on the day of your purchase or soon after. If the auction allows financed bidders, get prequalified for a mortgage ahead of the auction so you can prove that you can complete the purchase. Then, on the day of the auction, arrive with enough money to pay the advanced deposit, which is usually 5-10 percent of the expected purchase price.
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Check your local newspaper for notices about local foreclosures. Banks are required to publish information about foreclosures in the local newspaper. This will include details about the property, when and where the property will be auctioned, and how much money the winning bidder will need to pay on the day of the auction. However, these listings won't tell you the square footage or other interior details of the home. You can search the address of the home to find out more information, but this is not always available. Search websites that compile auction listings for foreclosures or tax liens. Scrolling through an auction website can be the most convenient way to learn about upcoming auctions. In addition to local websites, you can check national websites that have auction information from around the country, including where you live. Here are the most popular sites for home auctions: Fannie Mae hosts this site: https://www.homepath.com/ The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development operates this site: https://www.hudhomestore.com/Home/Index.aspx The FDIC maintains this site: https://www.fdic.gov/buying/owned/ Contact a real estate agent who handles real estate owned (REO) properties. Homes that are going to auction are called REO properties, and some real estate agents specialize in helping buyers purchase these properties. They can provide you with a list of available properties in your area and may be able to take you on a walk-through of the property. They'll also walk you through the auction process and paperwork involved in buying a home at auction. Your real estate agent will add their fee to the cost of purchasing your property if you buy a home. A real estate agent can also help you find upcoming estate auctions. Watch for an auction listing that interests you. Check the listings often, as new properties will come up for auction. Read each listing to find a property that might work for you. Then, you'll want to research that property before entering a bid. Take your time when looking for a property. Homes sold at auction will be as-is, so you'll be responsible for fixing any damage to the property. Analyze the property listing to determine the state of the property. Some homes up for auction are in good shape, but others are rundown. The property listing may offer details about the property's current shape. It may tell you if the property was well cared for or is a recent build. Similarly, it may warn of issues by stating that the property needs maintenance, suffered flooding, or is vacant. If you're working with a real estate agent or lawyer, ask them to help you review the listing to look for wording that might indicate an issue with the home. Look for the home on internet listings, such as a prior MLS post. Search the address online to look for current or old multiple listing service (MLS) postings, which may contain photos and details of the home. It's common for homes to remain on realty sites even after they've sold. Additionally, search public land records online for information about the most recent selling price, appraised value, and tax debt. If you can't search public land records online, you can talk to your county clerk's office to find out who can help you in your area. Some locales have laws restricting access to this information. Scout the property to the best of your abilities. Since the lender doesn't own the home, you likely won't get to see inside it unless you're working with a real estate agent who has access. To inspect the home, drive by it and take pictures of the exterior. Do not go inside the property unless the current owner invites you in, which is unlikely to happen. If you attempt to enter the property without permission, you will likely be arrested. Visit the open house if one is offered by the auction house. Some auction houses will host an open house to allow potential buyers a chance to see the property. However, this doesn't happen very often. If there is an open house, attend it so you can walk the property and ask questions. An open house is more likely to happen if the home being auctioned is part of a larger estate. In most cases, you won't get to go inside a property that's up for auction. Do a full title search on the property you want to purchase. The title search will find any outstanding debts related to the home, such as unpaid taxes or property liens. Additionally, the home may have a second mortgage against it. The new owner will be responsible for clearing these debts, so it's important to consider them when determining your highest bid. Some reputable auctioneers will provide this information prior to the auction. However, a real estate attorney can complete a title search for you to make sure all of the information is accurate. This can save you money in the long run, as it helps you avoid purchasing a property with debt attached to it. Check if the auction will allow financed bidders or cash only. Depending on the auction rules, you may need to pay for the home in cash on the day of the purchase or soon after. However, this isn't always the case. You may be able to finance your purchase with a pre-approved mortgage. The auction listing will explain the rules for the home you're interested in buying. If you don't have enough cash to buy a home that doesn't allow financing, you may be able to get a personal loan to help cover the difference. However, you'll need to get the loan before you bid on the home. Check the rates of mortgage lenders in your area. You can check rates online or visit your local banks and credit unions to discuss rates in person. You may receive a better rate if you go through a bank or credit union where you have an account. Choose the rate that's lowest or offers the best terms. Review the terms and conditions to make sure they are favorable to you. In some cases, lower rates may carry stricter terms and conditions or may come with higher origination fees. Origination fees are charged when your loan is issued. Count this amount in the cost of your loan. Get prequalified for a mortgage if you can’t pay cash. If your auction allows financed bidders to purchase property, apply for your mortgage ahead of attending the auction. This allows you to prove that you can complete the purchase if you're the winning bidder. Bring your prequalification letter with you to the auction to provide as evidence that you have the funds. Some auction houses have preferred lenders that they encourage buyers to work with. You can check the listing for this information or call the auction house on the listing for more information. Set a budget for your maximum bid based on the market. It's important to go into the auction knowing how much you can pay, especially if payment is expected on the day of purchase. Ask your real estate agent for recent sales listings for comparable properties in the area. As another option, do an internet search to find how much comparable homes are selling for in your area. Then, determine how much money you can actually pay. Determine the maximum you can afford by adding together the cash you have plus the amount of your pre-approved mortgage. Your budget can't be higher than this amount. Subtract potential repair costs from your budget, if necessary. If the property might need repairs, include potential repair costs in your budget. Talk to a contractor or search online to find repair estimates for the type of work you expect to do on the property. Subtract these potential costs from your max bid so that you don't accidentally pay more than you can afford. For example, you might see from pictures of the property that all of the cabinets need to be replaced. You could look up the estimated cost of replacing kitchen cabinets and subtract that from your budget. Bring your advanced deposit in a cashier’s check, money order, or cash. The advanced deposit is always provided in the auction listing. It's commonly 5-10% of the expected purchase price of the home. You must provide the advanced deposit to the auction house before you can participate in the auction. As an example, a home that might sell for $200,000 would have an advanced deposit of $10,000 to $20,000. Arrive to the auction an hour early so you won’t miss the sale. Most auctions are held at the local courthouse, but the auction company may decide to host the auction at another location, such as a hotel conference room. This location will be included in the listing. Most real estate auctions last only a few minutes, so it's important to get there early. It's normal for real estate auctions to get canceled, as the owner might pay their debt. Register and get your bidding paddle. Check in with the auctioneer and complete any necessary paperwork. Once you've filled out the paperwork, you'll receive a paddle that you can raise to make your bid. Some homes may be auctioned off online. If this is the case, check the listing of the home you want to purchase to find out when bidding opens and closes. Make sure you enter your bid during this window. Foreclosure auctions are typically hosted by trustees of the bank, while tax-lien auctions are usually hosted by a sheriff. If you're bidding on an estate auction, the auctioneer will likely be someone who handles estate sales. Raise your paddle to bid on the property you want to purchase. The auctioneer will call out a bid. If it's a price you're willing to pay, hold up your paddle to show that you are bidding. The auctioneer will continue to call out increasing bids until no more paddles are raised. The person who made the highest bid will win the auction. The starting bid may be the amount owed on the property, but it could be less, depending on the situation. The starting bid may be less than is owed on the property if the lender wants to encourage bidding or the home is worth less than is owed. Keep in mind that some auctions have a reserve bid, so the property may not go to the winning bidder if the reserve isn't reached. These are called lender confirmation auctions. In an absolute auction, the winning bidder always gets the property. Pay your auction fees and earnest money before leaving the auction. The winning bidder will pay any bidding or auction fees related to the home. Additionally, you'll be expected to pay a down payment. You must pay this before you leave the auction, or you'll likely lose the property and the money you've put down so far. In most cases, you'll pay with a cashier's check, money order, or cash. Check the auction listing to find out how your auction house takes payments. Submit a certificate of sale receipt to the county recorder’s office. In some areas, this document is called an execution of sale receipt. The certificate of sale receipt shows that you are acquiring the property from the lender or owner. It starts the transfer of the property to your name. If you pay over $10,000 in cash toward the property, you'll also need to submit Internal Revenue Service (IRS) form 8300. This document explains how much you paid to the lender or owner and the type of funds you provided. If you bought a foreclosure, the lender may complete this document on your behalf. Buy title insurance to protect you from existing debts. Even if you conducted a title search, it's still possible to inherit debts from the previous owner. The best way to protect yourself from these debts is to buy title insurance on your title before you take possession of the home. That way, the title insurance will cover any outstanding debts that you learn about in the future. You don't have to buy title insurance, but it does protect you from unexpected liens, mortgages, and property taxes already levied against your new property. Your real estate agent can help you find a title insurance company, or you can search for one in your area by going online. Expect the sale to be ratified by the court in the next 30 days. The local courts will review the auction and ratify the sale. In some cases, this may take just a few days, but you may need to wait an entire month. You will not take possession of the property until after this period. The courts will review the paperwork to make sure the lender or other entity had the right to sale the home. This gives you time to finalize your paperwork and secure the rest of your funding. Finalize your home loan, if you have one. Now that you know the purchase price of your new home, you can complete your loan. Visit your lender in person or go to their website to complete the necessary forms. Then, sign the required paperwork. If your lender requires an inspection, you can complete it during this time. Fill out your paperwork as soon as you can so you can pay for the house quickly. Pay your balance and receive your trustee’s deed on your settlement day. The auction house or local courts will set a settlement day for you. This is the day when you will complete the transaction and take ownership of your home. You'll be expected to pay all outstanding fees, then the auction house will provide you with your trustee's deed showing you own the property. After your settlement day, you are the official owner of the home and can take ownership of the property.
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Check your local newspaper for notices about local foreclosures. Search websites that compile auction listings for foreclosures or tax liens. Contact a real estate agent who handles real estate owned (REO) properties. Watch for an auction listing that interests you. Analyze the property listing to determine the state of the property. Look for the home on internet listings, such as a prior MLS post. Scout the property to the best of your abilities. Visit the open house if one is offered by the auction house. Do a full title search on the property you want to purchase. Check if the auction will allow financed bidders or cash only. Check the rates of mortgage lenders in your area. Get prequalified for a mortgage if you can’t pay cash. Set a budget for your maximum bid based on the market. Subtract potential repair costs from your budget, if necessary. Bring your advanced deposit in a cashier’s check, money order, or cash. Arrive to the auction an hour early so you won’t miss the sale. Register and get your bidding paddle. Raise your paddle to bid on the property you want to purchase. Pay your auction fees and earnest money before leaving the auction. Submit a certificate of sale receipt to the county recorder’s office. Buy title insurance to protect you from existing debts. Expect the sale to be ratified by the court in the next 30 days. Finalize your home loan, if you have one. Pay your balance and receive your trustee’s deed on your settlement day.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Fan-Cards
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How to Fan Cards
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To fan cards, start by holding a deck of cards loosely in your left hand. Then, shift the top of the deck slightly to the right to create an angle. Next, place the thumb on your free hand on the outer edge of the deck, near the top corner. Finally, use your thumb to fan the cards out so they make a 180-degree semicircle.
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Hold the deck of cards loosely between your left thumb and fingers. Put your left hand out as though you were holding a cup of water, with your thumb nearest you. Place the deck of cards in between your thumb and index finger, keeping it flat with the face side down. Place your index and middle finger against the underside of the deck. The tip of your middle finger should be against the near right corner of the deck, with your index finger alongside it. Loosely hold the deck by placing your thumb across the top of the deck, with the tip about halfway across the nearest edge. Being left-handed or right-handed doesn't make too much of a difference, but you can try using your right hand instead if you keep dropping the cards. Angle the cards slightly. Shift the top of the deck slightly, so the top cards are very slightly more to the right than the cards beneath them. This small angle helps the cards fan out more evenly, although this step becomes less important with practice. Fan the cards with your right thumb. Bring your right thumb onto the left edge of the deck, and use it to push the cards into a fan shape, pivoting around your left thumb. Press down slightly with your thumb as you do this, but keep it gentle enough that the cards spread out in an even fan instead of clumping together in chunks. Ideally, you should finish the fan with the cards spread out in a full 180º semicircle. You can use your right fingers instead of your thumb. You can think of this movement as pulling the stack of cards away from the bottom-most card in turn. If the entire deck moves together, hold it more loosely, or try consciously moving your right thumb at an upward angle as you spread Practice. Magicians make fanning cards look easy, but they've put in many hours of practice. Keep practicing until you can fan the cards smoothly and evenly. Speed up your fan as you become more experienced, but don't become so fast that you ruin the grace and fluidity of the fan. Replace your deck if the cards become more difficult to fan. Worn cards may not spread as evenly. Flick up your left wrist as you thumb with your right. Try this advanced technique to increase the speed at which the cards fan out. With this wrist flick upwards, as you are pulling the cards down with your thumb, you are simultaneously pulling the cards up with your left hand. Practice the one-handed close. It's easy to close the fan again with your free hand, moving the cards in the same direction as the fan to put them back into one stack. For a more advanced technique, practice using the fingers holding the cards to pull them closed instead. You may need to "walk" your fingers a few times along the underside of the cards to manage this, and it can take a fair amount of practice before you can do this confidently and without dropping cards. Try this with half a deck first. This fan is most easily done with approximately half the playing card deck, although it can be done with a whole deck with practice. Practicing with half a deck is recommended. This fan is more difficult than the two-handed fan, and some familiarity with that method may be useful. Once you are an expert at this fan, try dividing a deck in two and fanning each half with a different hand, simultaneously. Grip the deck in your dominant hand. Square the cards together in a neat stack. Hold the deck with your first and fifth fingers on opposite long edges. Put your third and fourth fingers along one short edge, and your thumb on the remaining short edge. Each finger should cover the entire width of the deck and protrude slightly beyond it. Turn your hand so the deck is held vertically, with the thumb along the upper edge. This grip should be secure enough that you can lift your thumb and rotate the deck in any direction without spilling cards. You can skip straight to the position described below, with your thumb in the lower left corner. However, this is a good starting position to practice from if you plan on learning more advanced card tricks and flourishes. Lift your thumb and tilt the deck outward. Remove your thumb from the upper edge. Tilt the deck outward, away from you, and curl up your third and fourth fingers to grip the bottom edge. Place your thumb against the lower left corner, moving your other fingers. This is the lower left corner of the top surface of the deck, nearest to you. Once your thumb is in position, move your first and fifth fingers away from the sides and down to the lower edge, so all four finger are supporting the deck from below. This can take a little practice to time the movement of your first finger, so as not to drop the cards. Depending on the length of your thumb, you may prefer to place your thumb along the left edge of the top card instead, less than an inch (2.5 cm) from the lower corner. Placing your thumb nearer the center of the top card is a common mistake, so concentrate. If you are holding the deck in your left hand, instead place the thumb against the lower right corner. Spread your thumb and fingers in opposite directions. Fan the cards by moving your thumb clockwise, while you move all four fingers counterclockwise, in the opposite direction. (Reverse these directions for a deck in your left hand.) A fast spread will make the cards fan more smoothly. You can think of this motion as "snapping" all four fingers against your thumb. At the end of the fan, the fleshy part of your hand beneath your thumb will help support the fanned-out cards. Misdirect the audience. Once you've got this motion down, practice some sleight of hand while using it in your tricks: Secretly removing the top half of the deck before fanning still results in a fan that looks like a full deck, and will prevent an audience member from picking the top card. Hold the card fan vertically, directly in front of the audience member's face. This will distract him while your other hand performs an manipulations necessary with the other half of the deck.
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Hold the deck of cards loosely between your left thumb and fingers. Angle the cards slightly. Fan the cards with your right thumb. Practice. Flick up your left wrist as you thumb with your right. Practice the one-handed close. Try this with half a deck first. Grip the deck in your dominant hand. Lift your thumb and tilt the deck outward. Place your thumb against the lower left corner, moving your other fingers. Spread your thumb and fingers in opposite directions. Misdirect the audience.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Better-Lover
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How to Become a Better Lover
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Becoming a better lover takes time and practice, but slowing down and taking time to understand each other better will help! Sex is rarely like it is in porn, so don't put those expectations on you or your partner. Instead, do some research to figure out what feels good to your partner. Try reading some romance novels, advice columns, or looking online for information. When you're in bed, slow down and build up to intimate acts gradually, which will make it more enjoyable. Try to explore their whole body, then pay attention to your partner's reactions. If they respond well to something, do more of that! If you usually do the same things in bed, try switching it up. For instance, talk to your partner and see if there are any role-play fantasies they'd like to try.
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Make intimacy a priority. It's easy to get caught up in our lives and feel too busy for intimacy, especially if we've been with someone for awhile. However, relationships that leave one or both parties feeling unsatisfied just can't last. Make time for intimacy to keep the fires burning strong. If you have kids that are a bit older, tell them that you've both had a very long day and you're tired so you're going to go to bed. If you have younger kids, get them into bed at a fairly early hour. Avoid only being intimate very sporadically, like when you take trips or set aside a "date night" once or twice a year. This is not good for a relationship. Emphasize consent. Make sure that everyone involved is happy and giving full consent before getting too serious. This is important for both men and women. If your partner is drunk enough to see giant purple mole-rats, you should not be getting intimate. Get a "yes", not an "I guess". Ditch the cultural hype. Don't expect sex to be like it is in porn and don't expect your partner to look like a supermodel. And especially don't expect yourself to look one way or another. This will make you and them insecure and uncomfortable, reducing pleasure for everyone involved. Do some research. If you want to find out more about what feels good to your partner, do some research. Read romance novels written for that gender or read advice columns online to find out ideas of what feels good and what doesn't. Be appealing. We don't mean lose weight or get bigger (insert body part): your partner is with you because they already think you're sexy. When we say be appealing, we mean have good hygiene. Wear decent clothes. That kind of thing. Weight is subjective but very few people are turned on by the smell of week-old sweat. Watch your partner's reactions. Watch how your partner reacts to things. If they respond well to something you do, do more of that! If they seem uncomfortable, stop! Look for the subtle cues they give you, like putting your hand in a certain place. You can even try mimicking the things that they do to you as oftentimes it is their way of asking for something in particular. Slow down. Slow down everything about your intimate relationship. Build up to intimate acts slowly, by embracing the subtle art of The Make Out and other types of foreplay. You should slow down the act itself too! This extends and heightens pleasure for all involved parties. Be unselfish. You do, of course, also need to get enjoyment from your intimate relationship, but focusing on your partner and making sure that they are satisfied and feeling amazing will go a long way towards improving the relationship and making them want to reciprocate. Go out of your comfort zone. Explore your partner. We all know the few basic places our partners like to be touched, but don't forget to explore their whole body! People are sensitive in all sorts of places and to all sorts of different degrees. You may find that your partner goes nuts if you kiss them on the back of their knee! You never know! Become the master of the kiss. Being a great kisser is important and being a bad one can be a real turn-off. Master the art of kissing before trying to master anything else! Switch things up. Don't let your intimate relationship become a routine. Avoid using the same positioning or the same location or the same time of day. Making a routine takes away a lot of the romance and enjoyment for everyone. Break out of your mold and switch things up every now and again to keep your romance alive. Be open minded. Human sexuality, like most things with humans, is incredibly complex. Everyone is different. And because we are all different, the range for what is actually normal is incredibly large. Never close your mind to anything, because you may be surprised at how much you or your partner enjoy something you never considered before. Try things, and if you enjoy them, keep doing it! Don't treat anything like a button. Really repetitive motions do not work in intimate situations. Her genitals are not an elevator button that you can just push repeatedly and hope to get results. The same can be said of her nipples. Think circular movements and variations in pressure, direction, and motion, and you'll be fine. Understand what pleasures women. Men get stimulated with sensations on their penis, so you'd think that women would be stimulated by sensations in their vagina, right? Unfortunately, it's not that simple! Most women don't get a whole lot of pleasure from just vaginal stimulation alone. Wikipedia the clitoris. Be gentle, unless you're told otherwise. When you're dealing with sensitive parts, be gentle unless she specifically asks otherwise. Nibbles and pinches here and there can feel amazing for some women but not all, and you don't want to get smacked. Speak up. Guys, you know you love it when she makes all of those little moaning sounds. It lets you know how much she's enjoying it, right? But did you know that she likes to hear you make sounds too (for the same reasons)? Maybe not so much with the grunting, cause it can get a little cave-manish, but say things like, "Oh, that feels so good..." Turn up the heat. No, really, turn up the heat. Women have a harder time feeling as much pleasure when they are cold, studies have shown. Get under a toasty warm blanket or crank up the thermostat if she really seems to be having trouble and you've tried everything else. Don't hold him hostage. Don't use your intimate relationship as a weapon in arguments and don't ever actually promise sex and then not deliver. This is cruel. It would be cruel if he did it to you and it's cruel if you do it to him. This also doesn't work in your favor, since it teaches him to associate sex with negative emotions and disappointment, which will really hurt your relationship long-term. Keep moving. The major complaint that guys have about women is the classic "dead fish". Get yourself moving when you're being intimate. Guys need less work, but that doesn't mean they need no work. Keep your hands and legs moving, caressing him, when you're together and occasionally take some initiative and take control of the situation. You'll blow his mind. Go all-natural. Take off all the makeup and go easy on the hairspray. Guys are attracted to your softness and they'll be much more turned on if they can get their fingers through you hair or kiss your cheek without getting a mouthful of powder. Gross! Ramp up the softness even further by shaving and moisturizing. We recommend a long-term Bag Balm regimen. Let him try some fantasies. Guys watch porn. Almost all of them. And they think about sex a lot. This is just a fact of life. Because they do this, they get ideas, fantasies of things that really turn them on. If you want to make your man a happy man, let him act out some of those fantasies every now and again. Wear a school uniform. Play doctor. Talk to him about what he fantasizes about and then make it a reality. He'll never know what hit him. Just be sure that whatever fantasies you decide to play out, you're comfortable with what you're doing. Everyone should be happy! You can be nonjudgmental and still say no to a request. These things are not mutually exclusive. Wake him up. Waking up to your soft body and warm kisses can be a great way to surprise your man. You can do this on a weekend morning or be really spontaneous and do it in the middle of the night (when you know you can sleep in in the morning). He'll enjoy the spontaneity and the break from the norm. Focus on your partner. The person to whom you intend to show affection must become your single point of attention. You will be a great lover if they feel they are the only person in the world when they are with you. That is the impression you are trying to make when you begin with focus. Have some optimism. You must be upbeat when expressing your sentiments to them, whether about them personally, the situation, or the condition of the world at large. Be an uplifting presence that helps them see the better things around them, especially about themselves Listen to them. Make sure to listen and see how the other person is responding to your attention at every step--the object here is to find the correct tempo that the other person is capable of hearing, seeing and fully feeling your expressions of affection. This is about them, not about you having a stage and acting out--you are always seeking to understand their experience of you so you can again make it even better. Show your enthusiasm. You must express optimistic sentiments with a passion that is infectious to them. Bring them a wave of positive emotions to carry them towards pleasures in themselves and the world around them and they will be yours forever. Develop your humor. Life is way too hard and complicated. We often get totally sucked in to our problems and forget to see all the wonderful things in the world. But that's what our partner is there for: to remind us of the good things by making us laugh and helping us find the humor in tough situations. Be that person for your lover. Notice the small things. If you really love the one you're with, and you watch them closely enough, you'll come to realize that they have certain habits and ticks that you will come to adore. Most people only see these things after a long time in their relationships, but if you get a head start now, you will start acting more loving with your partner and feeling closer to him or her. Compromise sometimes. One should learn to compromise. Being a lover means sharing. It's only fair that you do because love is about sharing, and growing. Treat others how you want to be treated.
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Make intimacy a priority. Emphasize consent. Ditch the cultural hype. Do some research. Be appealing. Watch your partner's reactions. Slow down. Be unselfish. Explore your partner. Become the master of the kiss. Switch things up. Be open minded. Don't treat anything like a button. Understand what pleasures women. Be gentle, unless you're told otherwise. Speak up. Turn up the heat. Don't hold him hostage. Keep moving. Go all-natural. Let him try some fantasies. Wake him up. Focus on your partner. Have some optimism. Listen to them. Show your enthusiasm. Develop your humor. Notice the small things. Compromise sometimes.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Disney-Princess
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How to Be a Disney Princess
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If you're interested in becoming a Disney princess, you need to be between 5'4” and 5'7” tall, 18-26 years of age, and a size 10 or under. Although it's not a requirement, having acting and performing experience can boost your chances of becoming a Disney princess. To sign up for an audition, look on the Disney website under “Female Disneyland Character Look-a-likes.” Then, prepare for your audition by working on your smile and body language since there is no speaking during the audition process.
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Learn the basic requirements. If you're interested in becoming a Disney princess, there are a variety of basic requirements. Some of these requirements are based on unchangeable qualities, such as your height and age. If you wan to pursue work as a Disney princess, make sure you meet the basic qualifications. Disney princesses need to be between 5'4 and 5'7. This is to make sure princesses resemble the characters on screen. You have to be at least 18 years old to be a Disney princess. The oldest a princess can be varies. Most Disney princesses are between 18 and 23. However, princesses who have worked successfully for Disney in the past may be between the ages of 24 and 26. It is rare to find a Disney princess older than 27. In terms of size, Disney princesses can not be higher than a dress size 10. Gain acting and performing experience. Disney has no specific requirements regarding past work when it comes to hiring princesses. However, acting and performing will be a large part of your job. Having experience in these fields can help you audition successfully. In high school or during college, join a theater group. You might also want to take classes like drama in order to learn the craft of acting and performing. If you're not currently in school, see if there are any acting classes available in your area. Look for performance experience. Audition for school plays or community theater. See if you can find a job that requires that you perform. For example, you could work at a restaurant, like Medieval Times, where you have to play a character as part of your job. Learn a bit about improv. Take an improv class at your local theater or art center. Join an improv group to get hands-on experience. As you'll be answering questions in-character while working at Disney, you'll need to learn basic improvisation. Consider a college degree. Disney has no specific degree requirements for princesses. However, a college degree in something like theater could bolster your chances of career success. The one downside of gaining a college degree is Disney's age requirement. Most people graduate college around the age of 22. Remember, most Disney princesses are between 18 and 23. However, there is one upside to a college degree. Disney offers a college program where you spend a semester working at a Disney theme park. You'll get invaluable behind-the-scenes experience and have the opportunity to meet cast members. This may lead to work with the Disney corporation later on, providing you an in for a princess role. Stay in physical shape. As Disney princesses cannot be higher than a size 10, work on maintaining a healthy weight. Toned muscles may give you an edge as well. The audition process is largely non-verbal, so your physical presence makes a big difference. The Department of Health and Human Services recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of strenuous aerobic activity a week to stay fit. Moderate aerobics include things like brisk walking or light biking. Strenuous aerobics would be things like running or jogging. It's also recommended you incorporate strength training twice a week. If you're trying to lose weight, you may need to be exercising more each day. Talk to a doctor about how to lose weight as he or she will be able to give you advice that takes your current weight and medical history into account. It's best to pick activities that you enjoy. If you loathe running, for example, don't plan on getting fit with a daily jog. Instead, try something you enjoy like swimming or biking. Strength training can come in the form of classic weight lifting. However, activities like Pilates and yoga help you build your core muscles simply by using your body as weight. Eating a healthy diet can also help you get fit. Aim for a diet that includes a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables. You should also eat whole wheats and healthy, lean proteins like those found in poultry and fish. Familiarize yourself with different Disney princesses. You do not get to choose which character you play as a Disney princess. If you love Belle and know every detail about her, you may end up being asked to play Mulan. Therefore, try to have some familiarity with all the Disney princesses before beginning the audition process. There are 13 Disney characters officially recognized as princesses by the Disney franchise. They are Jasmine, Ariel, Rapunzel, Tiana, Belle, Merida, Cinderella, Pocahontas, Aurora (Sleeping Beauty), Mulan, Elsa, Anna, and Snow White. Disney does provide an extensive training process for those chosen to be princesses. It involves extensive viewing and analyzing of the films to help you better match the character's mannerisms and voice. Therefore, you do not need to memorize everything about each princess as Disney does not expect you to be an expert going in. It's still a good idea to watch all the Disney princess films prior to your audition. This will show your commitment to the Disney franchise. Get headshots. Headshots are an important tool when auditioning to become a Disney princess. Quality photos printed on standard, letter-sized paper are ideal. Make sure your photos accurately represent your current appearance. Choose the right outfit for headshots. Go for a solid color over something patterned, as this can be distracting on camera. Plain white, however, might produce a glaring effect. A V-neck is usually flattering. Keep the outfit somewhat professional but also fun. A tank-top or sleeveless shirt can be a nice touch. Avoid jewelry, as this can be distracting. Do your make-up how you usually wear it for an average. Take some extra time and apply carefully. Do not apply make-up heavily, as clumped mascara or smeared lipstick will show up in a headshot. Shiny eye shadow or lipstick can cause camera glare so it should be avoided. Avoid cutting or dyeing your hair before a shoot. Wear it as you usually do. Drink a lot of water in the days leading up to your headshot to help you skin look hydrated and healthy. You can pay to have professional headshots taken. This can be expensive, however, and there's no guarantee you'll like how the photos turn out. Consider asking a friend with a nice camera to help you take some flattering photos of yourself. Go to a local print shop to make copies. Prepare a resume. A resume highlighting your acting and performing experience can be helpful. Disney recommends keeping your resume to one page. They also mention a lack of experience is okay. Much of your training and learning will come after you've been hired. An actor's resume is slightly different from a standard resume. As with a regular resume, list any basic contact information like your name, phone number, and address. You should also list any special performing skills you have. For example, if you have professional vocal training, this is something to include. You should list any performances you've been in, and include the time, location, and the roll you played. Some actresses list their measurements, height, and weight on a resume. As Disney does have specific size requirements, this could be helpful information to include. Bring a copy of your resume with you to your audition. Keep it in a folder so it stays in good condition. Sign up for an audition. You can find a list of auditions on the Disney auditions website. Look for auditions for "Female Disneyland Character Look-a-likes" in areas near you. When you click on the link, it will outline the requirements for that role. As long as you meet these requirements, you can sign up to audition online. Prepare for your audition. Disney princesses do not speak during auditions. You will imitate a Disney character and use gestures to communicate. The selection process is based on coordination, attitude, and movement. Work on your smile. Disney princesses have to smile frequently on the job so spend some time practicing a smile before a mirror. It can help to record yourself moving and then study your form. You can compare your movements to a scene of the princess you're portraying. You do not need to come in costume. Disney recommends you wear comfortable clothing to the auditions as you'll be asked to complete a specific set of movements. Choose clothes you can easily move in when planning your auditions wardrobe. Get a good night's sleep the night before your audition so you're energetic in the morning. Attend your audition. When you get to the audition, there will always be a cast member present to help you check in. They will take down your name, your time of arrival, and you'll give them your headshots and resume. Time is very important to the Disney corporation. You should aim to arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled audition time. The audition room can be somewhat intimidating but try to stay calm when entering. A Disney director will introduce him or herself. Then, you'll be given a few instructions and asked to perform. All Disney auditions are closed. You cannot bring family members or friends into the audition room with you. Attend training. If you're chosen to be a Disney princess, you'll attend a five day training process. You will be assigned a character and analyze any films involving that character. By the end of training, you should be able to successfully mimic the mannerisms, voice, and other aspects of your character. Follow Disney protocol. Disney has a variety of protocol princesses are expected to follow. Breaking any rules could result in your position being terminated. You are not allowed to talk about the character you play for Disney. You cannot post anything about your character on social media. This is a very strict rule so make sure you follow it properly. When you're playing a Disney princess, you cannot reference anything outside the Disney universe. You cannot, for example, talk about a TV show on Cartoon Network while portraying Mulan. Understand the extent of your obligation. If you're chosen to be a Disney princess, it's at least a yearlong commitment. While the job may seem fun, it can get frustrating at times. In some roles, you're working outside all day and must learn to tolerate both very hot and very cold temperatures while still in costume. Make sure you're committed to staying a Disney princess for at least a year before signing any contract. Be prepared to improvise. As a Disney princess, you'll have to be in character all day. On occasion, you may have to answer questions from fans. Make sure you are able to think of an answer off-the-cuff. For example, if you're playing Ariel a child might ask you where Flounder is. Be prepared to respond with something like, "Flounder is hanging out with Sebastian in the ocean today." Prepare for uncomfortable situations. Many former Disney princesses have admitted older men at the Disney park often hit on them. Men may ask you when you get off work, pass you phone numbers, or otherwise behave inappropriately. Inform your supervisor if anyone gets out of hand.
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Learn the basic requirements. Gain acting and performing experience. Consider a college degree. Stay in physical shape. Familiarize yourself with different Disney princesses. Get headshots. Prepare a resume. Sign up for an audition. Prepare for your audition. Attend your audition. Attend training. Follow Disney protocol. Understand the extent of your obligation. Be prepared to improvise. Prepare for uncomfortable situations.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Install-Vinyl-Gutters
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How to Install Vinyl Gutters
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To install vinyl gutters, you'll need to start by installing downspout outlets on the edges of your house, so water can drain properly from the gutters. Then, secure gutter hangers along your house and fit the gutter sections into them. Next, attach drainpipes to carry water from the downspout outlets to the ground and away from your house. Finally, fit gutter guards or jackets over the gutters to keep them free from debris.
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Decide where you want the water to go. Are you going to collect in a rain barrel or dump your runoff far enough from your foundation to avoid leaking issues? Consider the orientation and the landscape of your home to decide what you want to happen to all the water you're sloping off your roof before you plan for gutters to take it there. You want water to run at least 10 feet (3.0 m) off into the yard away from the foundation of the house if you're going to dump it using downspouts. Is there sufficient room for this in your yard? You also need to make sure there aren't severe slopes or ruts in the ground that angle back into your foundation, which could result in water damage in your basement. Measure out the gutter run. To determine how many gutter sections and accessory pieces you need to buy, measure the length of the house that will include gutters. This measurement is called the gutter run. It may be easier to do a rough measurement from the ground, but to be sure hop on a ladder and get a partner to help you measure the correct sections. You want to be sure. Sketch a layout for the gutter installation plan to take with you to the store. Include a rough description of the shape with the correct measurements for easy consultation. Choose between a vinyl gutter kit or separate parts. At most home repair stores, you can buy an all-in-one installation kit (or several) that will include all necessary connectors, corners, caps, and gutter pieces to make the job much easier. These kits tend to be more expensive, so if you want a more customizable and cheaper project, you'll probably want to buy the parts piecemeal. If you decide to buy piece by piece, plan on buying 10-foot (3.048 m) lengths to cover the vinyl gutter run. If you end up with extra, you can shape it to your needs. It's better to have too much and not have to go back to the store. You'll also need connectors, corners, end caps, and a gutter hanger for every 2 feet (0.6 m) of gutter. You'll need drainpipe, elbows, hangers and outlets for every 30 (9.14 m) to 35 feet (10.67 m) for the downspouts. If you're unsure about which parts to use, talk to a salesman at your home repair store, or consult one of the DIY kits for the parts list and use it as a guide. Mark the slope on fascia boards with a chalk line. When you're up there installing, you don't want to have to measure every ten seconds. Before you start, mark the slope angle for the water to run with a chalk line to make the job much easier. Slope the vinyl gutters approximately 1/4 to 1/2 inch (0.6 to 1.3 cm) for every 10 feet (3.048 m) of gutter for short runs of less than 30 feet (9.14 m). Gutters need a slight slope so that water will flow out of them and not create pools of water. Place the highest point in the middle of the run, sloping in either direction by the same amount for longer runs of more than 30 feet (9.14 m). For gutter runs longer than 40 feet (12.2 m), consider sloping the gutters down from each end into a single downspout located at the middle of the run, in essence making a "reverse slope." Consider what will work best with your home before ordering parts and drawing your sketch. Install downspout outlets on the edges of the house. Use a drill or powered screwdriver to attach the outlets using 1.25-inch (3.2 cm) deck screws. The gutters themselves will attach to these outlets, so it's important to place them first to use as a guide as you continue installing. Attach gutter hangers along the chalk line on the fascia boards. Install deck screws every 2 feet (0.6 m), approximately an inch away from the edge of the roof. Secure gutter corners on the corners of the house that will not have downspouts. The water needs to be able to travel easily through the gutters, funneling toward the downspouts. You probably won't want to have spouts at every corner, so use gutter corners in the in-between areas. Hang the gutter sections. First, install the gutter sections into the outlets, using the hangers to support the individual sections. Use a plastic slip joint at the end of every 10-foot length, connecting the gutter sections for each section with connectors. Add an end cap to areas that won't have outlets to keep the water flowing toward the downspouts. If you need to adjust the size of the gutter sections to fit your walls, cut them using a loppers or a table saw. To make the job easier, have one person hold one end of the gutter while the other takes the other end and begins attaching the vinyl gutter to the hangers from the outside in. Attach drain pipes to the house. First, secure the downspout outlet to the gutter. Connect downspout elbows to the outlet and outlet tube coming from the gutter. Secure the correct size drainpipe section to fit between the elbows. Secure the drainpipe to the wall using the same brackets you used for the gutter sections. Fit gutter guards or jackets on. Often kits will come with jackets made of metal mesh to fit over the vinyl gutters to complete the gutter installation. This keeps debris from clogging up gutters and should keep the water flowing smoothly. Clean gutters once in the spring and once in the fall. Maintaining an annual schedule of gutter cleanings will ensure that your system is functional when you'll need it most and you won't have to worry about emergency repairs in the middle of a big deluge. Remember to pencil in regular cleanings onto your calendar and the job won't need to take more than a few hours. Get the leaves out. The biggest problem affecting vinyl gutters is getting them cluttered and clumped with leaves during the autumn. Work your way around the house carefully on a ladder and remove any clumps of leaves and twigs that have accumulated and might be keeping water from flowing properly. Always work from a ladder and never from the roof. It may seem easier to climb up on the roof and avoid repositioning the ladder every couple of feet, but it's dangerous to be that near the edge, leaning over into the gutter. Take the safe out and work from the ground on a ladder with a spotter to help. Don't neglect the downspout. When you're finished with the gutters lining the roof, also remove large debris from the downspout as well. Flush the gutters. Using a hose, run some water through with a hose, using a gutter-cleaning attachment if you have one, to clear out any remaining debris you might have missed. If you've been having clogging troubles, or suspect you might have leaks, have a partner flush the sections of the gutter while you walk around and look for drips, leaks, or places the water builds up and won't drain. Reconnect loose sections or fix them with roofing screws or other fasteners to keep the gutters working well.
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Decide where you want the water to go. Measure out the gutter run. Choose between a vinyl gutter kit or separate parts. Mark the slope on fascia boards with a chalk line. Install downspout outlets on the edges of the house. Attach gutter hangers along the chalk line on the fascia boards. Secure gutter corners on the corners of the house that will not have downspouts. Hang the gutter sections. Attach drain pipes to the house. Fit gutter guards or jackets on. Clean gutters once in the spring and once in the fall. Get the leaves out. Flush the gutters.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Prune-Ferns
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How to Prune Ferns
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To prune your outdoor ferns, use gardening shears to cut back the old foliage during spring, which will make it easier to cut through the new growth in the summer. Starting early in the summer, trim off the dead branches near the crown to keep your plant healthy. Once you've cut off all the branches, trim the outer edges of the fronds to make them neat and even. Continue to prune your fern throughout the summer, but avoid pruning right before winter, since the dying fronds will help protect the root crown throughout the winter.
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Check the pruning information for your specific plant. Some ferns, such as the Giant Chain Fern, do not do well with spring pruning. It's best to let the old foliage die out by itself in mid-summer. If you don't, you can cause damage to the plant. Once the fronds die, you can cut them out. Cut back the old foliage early in the spring to make pruning easier. It's easiest to cut back the fern in the spring before the new leaves emerge. You should be able to see the tightly rolled fiddleheads, also known as crosiers, in a crown on the plant. Cut the foliage just above the crown with a sharp pair of gardening shears. The old foliage will likely not look as pretty as new foliage in the height of summer. Trim the dead branches after the new growth comes in. Alternatively, you can wait until the new growth comes in to cut off the old fronds. It's best to do this early in the season. Shear off the dead fronds near the crown to make your plant healthier and prettier. You can also cut out any older fronds that aren't dead yet but look a little bedraggled. Cut the outer edges of the fronds to create a desired shape. If you don't like the way your fern is shaped, simply trim the outer edges until it's to your liking. Use sharp scissors or kitchen shears to do the trimming. It's best to only trim the outer edges after you've removed yellowing or dead fronds. Keep in mind that the tips turn brown if you clip off the edges. Trim a transplanted fern by half to help it thrive. When you move a fern, it may need some help getting settled in its new location. Cut back all the fronds by half, reducing the water your fern needs to support itself. This technique lets the plant focus more attention on getting its roots settled. Don't worry. Once the plant is settled, it will grow back. Avoid pruning right before winter. It can be tempting to cut off dead or dying fronds at the beginning of winter. However, those fronds help protect the root crown throughout the winter. In other words, leaving the old fronds in place can help your fern survive through the cold of winter and return in the spring. Cut off dead fronds as they appear. Use a sharp pair of scissors to cut the fronds. Dead fronds will be brown or black. Cut them near the base of the frond, just above the joint. You can use a sharp pair of scissors or a small pair of garden shears. Remove any fronds infected with scales. Scales are tiny insects that attack your plants. They are small, reddish brown, and flat. When scales attack the plant, the leaves will likely turn yellow and may weaken. Look for scales on the underside of leaves along the vein or on the stems. Scales can spread, so remove any fronds you see with shears or scissors. If you have a bad infestation, you may need to throw out the houseplant so the scales don't spread to other houseplants. Outdoor ferns also get scales, but you should try controlling them with oil-based spray pesticides instead of pruning. Chop the root runners that hang over the side of the pot. Some ferns will get "runners," sort of like a strawberry plant, except these are part of the plant's root system. These will be brown and woody. Chop them near the soil in the pot with shears or scissors to increase the health of your plant. These runners are draining energy from your plant. By cutting them, you're letting your plant focus on other vital areas. Cut back to the base if desired. If you are not liking the look of your plant at all, you can cut it down to just above the crown, much as you do with an outdoor fern. Use sharp, clean scissors to cut off the fronds. The fern will grow back from the crown, if you let it remain.
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Check the pruning information for your specific plant. Cut back the old foliage early in the spring to make pruning easier. Trim the dead branches after the new growth comes in. Cut the outer edges of the fronds to create a desired shape. Trim a transplanted fern by half to help it thrive. Avoid pruning right before winter. Cut off dead fronds as they appear. Remove any fronds infected with scales. Chop the root runners that hang over the side of the pot. Cut back to the base if desired.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Finish-Live-Edge-Slabs
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How to Finish Live Edge Slabs
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If you have a live edge slab that you want to finish, first, peel off any bark in 6 to 8-inch sections using a rounded chisel. Once the bark is gone, take a rotary tool with a sanding flap wheel and sand the edges down smooth. Next, sand the surface to the smoothness you want and vacuum up any dust, or else you might end up with a messy finish. Then, use a sponge brush to apply a coat of polyurethane coating. After the coat is dry, sand it with 500-grit sandpaper and repeat 2 more times. Then, wipe the surface with mineral spirits and wet-sand with 2000-grit sandpaper. After letting the slab dry, apply 1 coat of shellac and let it dry again before sanding with 400-grit sandpaper. To finish off the slab, repeat this process until you have 3 coats of shellac, then give it a spray of lacquer.
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Purchase the slab from a store if you want to minimize your work. You can find pre-cut and pre-dried slabs in lumber stores and stores that specialize in woodworking supplies. Online stores are a great place to purchase unique slabs made from rare varieties of wood as well. Look for slabs that are at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) thick. You can cut the slab from a piece of felled lumber, or have a lumber mill do it for you. Choose wood that was felled during the summer. It will be easier to remove the bark later on. Knots, burls, and limbs often reveal surprising patterns and textures. Take these into consideration when picking your slab. Wait 1 to 2 weeks for store-bought slabs to acclimate. If you choose to buy a slab from the store, you need to wait 1 to 2 weeks before you use this. This will give the wood enough time to adjust to the humidity of your home. If you cut the slab yourself, or had a saw mill do it for you, air-dry or kiln-dry the slab first. Cut the slab down to the right length, if needed. Secure the slab to your workbench with hand screws. Add a MDF (medium density fiberboard) strip if you need a straightening guide. Cut the slab to the length you need with a 7 1/4-inch (18-cm) circular saw. Remove the bark in sections with a rounded chisel. Even though bark can look beautiful, it is difficult to maintain and keep clean. In some cases, it can fall off and make a mess on the floor. Wedge a rounded chisel under the bark, then use it to peel the bark off in 6 to 8-inch (15 to 20-cm) sections. Work your way along the edge of the slab. If you work across it, you may gouge the surface and leave marks. Scrape the fibers off with a nylon or wire brush. Sand the edge with a rotary tool and a sanding flap wheel. A rotary tool comes with many different attachments. Get the attachment that looks like a bunch of pieces of sandpaper bound together to form a wheel. Start with a 120-grit wheel, then work your way up to 180- and 220-grit. You are only sanding the edge that had the bark on it for now. The flaps typically only have sandpaper on 1 side. Make sure that you are moving your rotary tool with these flaps facing forward. Don't move the tool back-and-forth. How much you sand the edge is up to you. Lots of woods often have worm holes under the bark. You can sand these off or leave them on for a cool effect. Sand the sharp edges on the ends of the slab, if needed. Live edge slabs usually have bark on 2 sides; the other 2 sides are sometimes jagged from where they were cut. If this is the case with your slab, sand the roughness away with 120-grit sandpaper. Work your way to 150-, 180-, 220-, and 320-grit. If you have a round slab, or a slab with bark on all 4 sides, you can skip this step. Decide how much you want to flatten and smooth the surface. A slab with an uneven face (top surface) would work great for a rustic side table. A slab that is going to be used as a writing desk will need a smoother finish and perfectly-flat face. You don't need to finish sanding both the top and bottom faces. Flatten the face with a plunge router to your desired smoothness. Build a jig to fit your slab first. Use a power sander with a 60- or 80-grit to smooth the face down. Keep sanding until you get marks, but don't sand it smooth yet. You can flatten the bottom of the slab too for a nicer finish. Stabilize any splits in the face with butterfly keys. Trace the keys onto the wood with a marking knife. Lift them away, then carve the shapes out with a chisel. Glue the keys into the holes with clear 2-part epoxy. Let the epoxy cure, trim the keys until they are flush with the face, then sand them smooth. Butterfly keys are blocks of wood shaped like bowties. Use a block plane or a powder sander to trim the keys. Use a sanding block or sandpaper to sand the eyes. If there is a split in the underside of the slab, you should install butterfly keys too. Clean out any loose bark trapped within the wood. Sometimes, small pieces of bark will get trapped within the wood as the tree grows. You should scrape these inclusions out. You can leave resulting voids hollow for a rustic finish, or you can fill them in with a clear or tinted epoxy; do not use an opaque epoxy, however, or it won't look natural. You are doing this after you sand the faces because some pieces of trapped bark may not get revealed until after you sand them. Check the slab for voids, then tape off the sides, if needed. Voids are holes in the surface of the wood. If they are in the middle of the wood, you don't need to tape off anything. If the holes extend to the edges of the slab, however, you need to cover the edge in that area with masking tape. The tape will act like a dam and prevent the epoxy from leaking out. You can also use plumber's putty for this, but it can be difficult to remove--a quick blast from an air compressor hose ought to do the trick, however. If you choose to leave the voids hollow for a rustic look, skip past this entire section. Prepare a 2-part clear epoxy. How you prepare it depends on the brand that you are using. In most cases, you will need to mix equal amounts of Parts A and B, then mix them in a disposable cup. If you want to, you can tint the epoxy using a clear resin dye. Test your epoxy on the voids on the underside of the slab. If you plan on tinting the epoxy, coat the wood with shellac first. This will prevent the epoxy from soaking into the wood and forming a "halo" of color. Pour the epoxy into the voids. You want to work quickly, but you also want to pour slowly. Don't leave the epoxy sitting on the table. As soon as you have it mixed together, pick the cup up and slowly pour it into the voids. You want to pour slowly because if you pour too fast, you may get bubbles. If you have a lot of voids, it's best to work in small batches, otherwise the epoxy will cure before you finish. Use enough epoxy so that it is level with the surface of the wood. Allow the epoxy to cure, then remove the tape. How long this takes depends on what brand you are using. Some types of epoxy cure within minutes, while others can take an hour or so. Once the epoxy has cured, you can remove the masking tape or plumber's putty. Use a card scrapper to remove excess epoxy. Sometimes, a small amount of will still leak out from under the tape or putty dam. If that happened, simply use a card scrapper to pick it off. Sand the surface until you get the smoothness you want. Start with 80-grit sandpaper, then work your way up to 220-grit. How much you sand is really up to you; the more you sand, the smoother the finish will be. Vacuum your workspace to get rid of any dust. This is very important, as any dust left behind from sanding can get trapped in your finish. This can lead to a messy, unprofessional finish. Seal the surface with polyurethane if you want to keep things simple. Apply a coat of polyurethane coating with a sponge brush. Wait for the coat to dry, then sand it with 500-grit sandpaper. Do this 2 more times, then wipe the surface down with mineral spirits. Wet-sand the surface with a 2000-grit sanding pad. Wipe the residue off, then allow it to dry overnight. Use shellac and lacquer for a natural, glossy finish. Apply 1 coat of shellac, then let it dry. Sand it with 400-grit sandpaper. Repeat this 2 more times for a total of 3 coats. Allow the shellac to dry completely. Finish off with a spray of lacquer for extra-durability. Apply wood oil, butter, and wax if you want bring out the natural grain. Rub 1 coat of wood oil into the wood with a cotton rag. Let it dry, then wipe the rest off. Do this 1 to 2 more times. Follow up with 2 coats of wood butter using the same technique. Finish off with 1 coat of wood wax. Let it set, then buff the excess off. Let it cure overnight before applying a second coat. Allow the wax to cure for 3 days, then buff it. Allow the finish to cure before you use the slab. How long the slab needs to cure for depends on what type of finish you used. Some finishes need only a few hours to cure while others need a couple of days. Check the instructions on the label of the jar or bottle. Once the finish has cured, you can turn your slab into a bench, table, headboard, etc.
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Purchase the slab from a store if you want to minimize your work. Wait 1 to 2 weeks for store-bought slabs to acclimate. Cut the slab down to the right length, if needed. Remove the bark in sections with a rounded chisel. Sand the edge with a rotary tool and a sanding flap wheel. Sand the sharp edges on the ends of the slab, if needed. Decide how much you want to flatten and smooth the surface. Flatten the face with a plunge router to your desired smoothness. Stabilize any splits in the face with butterfly keys. Clean out any loose bark trapped within the wood. Check the slab for voids, then tape off the sides, if needed. Prepare a 2-part clear epoxy. Pour the epoxy into the voids. Allow the epoxy to cure, then remove the tape. Use a card scrapper to remove excess epoxy. Sand the surface until you get the smoothness you want. Vacuum your workspace to get rid of any dust. Seal the surface with polyurethane if you want to keep things simple. Use shellac and lacquer for a natural, glossy finish. Apply wood oil, butter, and wax if you want bring out the natural grain. Allow the finish to cure before you use the slab.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Give-Yourself-a-Tattoo-Without-a-Gun
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How to Give Yourself a Tattoo Without a Gun
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Before you give yourself a tattoo, get a tattoo kit or a sterilized needle and black India ink. Clean and shave the area, then sterilize the skin with rubbing alcohol. Trace the image you want onto your skin, making sure to get it exactly right. When you're ready to tattoo, sterilize the needle by holding it over a flame until it glows, then wrap cotton thread around the needle to help absorb the ink. Dip the needle into the ink, then poke it into your skin. Repeat this until you've finished the tattoo.
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Buy or assemble a home tattoo kit. The main components of any home tattoo kit are needles and ink. Only use tattoo needles that haven't been used. Tattoo ink is the only type of ink you should use, but not always easy to find. India Ink is commonly used as calligraphy ink but is the only ink that is not tattoo ink that can be used as tattoo ink. Don't use pen or marker ink! Home tattoo kits are the safest option, are inexpensive, and include both supplies and instructions. Find a reputable brand of tattoo ink to ensure it doesn't contain any toxic ingredients. Don't use sewing needles, straight pins, or safety pins. They are not sterile, even if they are new. It is extremely dangerous to use any of these objects to tattoo yourself. You may end up in the hospital. They don't hold the ink well and generally aren't the right type of needle. You need to be as professional as possible if you are going to do this yourself. Don't use old needles. Don't share needles. Doing either of these will put you at serious risk for infection. Also, be sure to safely dispose of the needles when you're done. Set up your station. You'll need a few other things before you start putting needle to flesh. Grab some cotton thread, a cup for water, and rubbing alcohol. Keep a non-permanent, non-toxic marker around for drawing potential tattoo ideas. It's a good idea to keep ink caps, a shallow bowl, or saucer handy to pour India ink into. Ink caps are inexpensive and can help prevent you from wasting ink. Sterilize with rubbing alcohol or hydrogen peroxide that is 91-99% alcohol. It's important to make sure everything you use is clean. Wash any bowls or saucers you'll be using in hot, soapy water and peroxide/rubbing alcohol, and then cover them with plastic wrap. For extra protection, wear gloves that are very well sterilized when handling any of the supplies you'll be using. Wash gloves (if using) and hands multiple times throughout the whole process. Clean and shave your chosen area. Wherever you decide to tattoo yourself, clean it with soap and warm water. Shave the hair off in the area about an inch larger than you want your tattoo to be. After you shave, sterilize your skin with rubbing alcohol. Dab it on with a cotton ball and make sure it's evaporated before continuing. Draw the design on your skin. Trace or draw your desired tattoo in the place you want it to go. You can have someone else do it for you if you want, but take the time to get it how you want it. This image is all you'll have to go on once you start. You can also use stencil paper and stencil gel to make it more accurate. Since you'll be tattooing yourself, make sure the place you choose is easily. You WILL be poking for a few hours. Awkward or hard to reach places on the body, such as your chest or shoulder, are never good ideas for stick 'n' pokes on yourself. Stick 'n' pokes work much better with simple and tiny tattoos. If you want a complex tattoo, you're better off going to a parlor. Sterilize the needle. The best way to sterilize the needle before using it is with flame. Hold the needle over the flame of a candle or a lighter until it glows. Make sure you hold the other end with tongs, or you'll burn your fingertips. Once the needle is sterile, wrap it in cotton thread. Start about ⁄ 8 inch (0.3 cm) away from the tip and wrap the thread back and forth about ⁄ 4 inch (0.6 cm) up the needle until the thread has formed an oval shape. This will absorb some of the ink as you dip your needle into the saucer. Start poking. Dip the needle into the India ink and then poke it through your skin, leaving a small dot. There may be some blood after several layers of poking, but there shouldn't be much. If blood is dripping/excessive, stop immediately and sterilize. Hold a clean paper towel, not cloth, onto the tattoo until it stops bleeding. Start working your way along the lines. Stay inside the line of the tattoo design you've drawn, filling it in with tiny punctures. Use a cotton swab or a rag to wipe away any blood or excess ink. The skin may swell up a bit as you poke it which may cause the resulting tattoo to appear spotty. You may have to do touch-ups when the swelling goes down if you want smooth lines throughout the tattoo. Wait to do touch ups until after the tattoo is completely healed, which can take up to two months. Clean the tattooed area. When you finish the tattoo, wipe down the area with soapy water. Throw away any remaining India ink in the ink cap and needles. They are no longer sterile. Use a new needle and a new saucer of ink if you plan on doing any touch-ups in the future. Avoid cleaning a fresh tattoo with alcohol -- use soap and water, instead. Bandage your new tattoo with saran wrap. Don't use a cloth or band-aid as they can absorb some of the ink and fade it faster. Don't use any ointments or lotions for the first week of healing because they can clog the tattoo and puts it at risk of infection.. Leave the wrap on for 1-3 hours, but no longer than 6. Keep your tattoo clean. Remove the initial wrap and gently wash the area with warm water and non-scented soap. Don't scrub, and only wash the tattoo with clean hands. Don't soak your tattoo and don't run it under hot water. It won't feel nice, and it take the ink out of your skin. Avoid picking at the tattoo as this could cause some of the ink to bleed out, causing messy lines and even scarring. Apply lotion to your tattoo. After the swelling goes down and the skin starts to scab, switch to a plain, unscented lotion. Most professionals recommend Lubriderm or Aquaphor. Keep the layers thin. Your skin needs to breathe so it can heal properly. Moisturize your tattoo 3-5 times a day depending on the size of the tattoo. If your skin starts to look dried out, use a small amount of lotion. Let your tattoo heal. For the first week or so be mindful of your tattoo. It's going to scab over and you'll need to take extra care to keep it clean. In addition to washing it and keeping it moisturized, you'll need to avoid certain activities. Keep your tattoo out of direct sunlight, as this can cause the ink to fade. It will also burn like a bad sunburn. Avoid pools of water such as baths, hot tubs, pools, lakes, oceans, etc. They are full of bacteria, which can lead to infection. Avoid any activity that is high-contact or induces excessive sweating, like working out. Wear loose clothing so your tattoo can breathe. Tight clothing prevents this. Watch out for infection. Be on the lookout for redness or excessive scabbing around your tattoo, as well as any oozing, or swelling. These are all signs of possible infection. You can minimize the risk of infection by keeping your supplies clean and taking care of your tattoo. Still, it is possible your tattoo could become infected. If you suspect that your tattoo has become infected, consult your physician.
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Buy or assemble a home tattoo kit. Set up your station. Clean and shave your chosen area. Draw the design on your skin. Sterilize the needle. Start poking. Start working your way along the lines. Clean the tattooed area. Bandage your new tattoo with saran wrap. Keep your tattoo clean. Apply lotion to your tattoo. Let your tattoo heal. Watch out for infection.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Contractions
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How to Use Contractions
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Contractions are an easy way to condense two words into one, and you'll probably only want to use them in informal speech. Some basic contractions you may already know include he's, they're, isn't, and it's. In general, contractions can be used in sentences in the same way you would use the separate words. However, when you're using contractions that refer to actions, they change slightly depending on whether you're talking in present, future, or past tense. For instance, “I will” becomes “I'll” while “I did” becomes “I'd.” If you wanted to use a contraction in the sentence “You did not go to the store,” you would change it to “You didn't go to the store.” When you're using pronoun contractions like "he's" or "she's, they generally stay the same regardless of if you're using past, present, or future tense.
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Understand when it is appropriate to use a contraction. From a technical standpoint, contractions are not necessary in written English. The grammatically correct way to write requires the full version of every word. Contracting, or shortening words, should only be done for stylistic purposes and for specific types of writing. If you are writing something where you are “talking” directly to your reader, you may use contractions. Writing a casual email or letter to a friend or someone you know well on a personal level would be an appropriate time to use contractions to keep your language from sounding stuffy or too formal. Contractions often create a friendly and casual tone when used in writing. If you are writing dialogue in a play or a novel, you may use contractions to show how a certain character speaks to other characters. This also extends to school assignments when you are creating a scene for a play or writing a short story. If you are creating a slogan or an advertisement, you may use contractions to keep the phrase short and to the point. Avoid using contractions in formal documents like cover letters, medical documents, or legal documents. The only time you will use contractions in an academic essay is when you are quoting sources that use contractions. Some teachers and professors may be less rigid on the “no contractions” in an essay rule. Ask your teacher about this before you hand in an essay full of contractions. Use an apostrophe to make a contraction. When you create a contraction, you are taking two words and putting them together. You then insert an apostrophe to replace certain letters in the two words. For example: “he is” is contracted to: “he's”. “They are” is contracted to: “they're”. You use contractions in a sentence to shorten the phrase and give it a less formal tone. For example: “They are playing together.” When you use a contraction, you combine “they” and “are”. You then replace the “a” with an apostrophe. The sentence becomes: “They're playing together.” You can also use contractions in questions. For example, “Where did they go?” When you use a contraction, you combine “where” and “did” together. You then replace the “i” with an apostrophe. “Where'd they go?” Recognize the difference between “it’s” and “its”. One of the most misused contractions is the contraction “it's”. “It's” is the contracted form of “it is” or “it has”. It is never the possessive form of “it”. Use the context of the sentence to determine if you need to use an apostrophe or no apostrophe for “it”. For example: “It's late.” You use an apostrophe because this is the contracted form of “it is”. “It's been a lovely evening”. This is the contracted form of “it has”. But a sentence like: “The cat licked its tongue” does not require an apostrophe for “its” because the “its” is possessive in the sentence. “It” refers to “the cat” and is possessive, so it does not require an apostrophe. “The cat licked it's tongue” would mean “The cat licked it is tongue” or “The cat licked it has tongue” and this is clearly incorrect. Familiarize yourself with positive contractions. Positive contractions are used often in common speech and in casual writing. They are often used when a pronoun, such as “I” is next to a verb, such as “is”. The most common positive contractions include: “I'm”: contracted form of “I am” “I've”: contracted form of “I have” “I'll”: contracted form of “I will” “I'd”: contracted form of “I would/ I should/ I had” “You're”: contracted form of “you are” “You'll”: contracted form of “you will” “You'd”: contracted form of “you had/ you would” “He's”: contracted form of “he has/ he is” “He'll”: contracted form of “he will” “He'd”: contracted form of “he had/he would” “She's”: contracted form of “she has/she is” “She'll”: contracted form of “she will” “She'd”: contracted form of “she had/she would” “It's”: contracted form of “it has/it is” “It'll”: contracted form of “it will” “We're: contracted form of “we are” “We've”: contracted form of “we have” “We'll”: contracted form of “we will” “We'd”: contracted form of “we had/ we would” “They're”: contracted form of “they are” “They've”: contracted form of “they have” “They'll”: contracted form of “they will” “They'd”: contracted form of “they had/they would” Keep in mind the double meanings of some positive contractions. Some contractions, such as “he'd” could be the contracted form of either “he would” or “he had”. The context of the sentence will help you determine which meaning is implicated by the contraction. Always read the entire sentence to figure out what contraction is being used. For example: “She'd like to go to the store.” This is the contraction of “She would like to go to the store” as it is the only grammatically correct option. “She had like to go to the store” is clearly incorrect. “She'd completed the work by the time I arrived.” This is the contraction of “She had finished the work by the time I arrived” as it is the only grammatically correct option. “She would finished the work…” is clearly incorrect. As well, the contraction “'s”, the contracted form of “is” or “has” can be used with pronouns and it can be used with nouns, names, question words, and words like “here” and “there”. For example: “The plane's late.” “Joan's left.” “What's the score?” “There's the dog.” “Here's your receipt.” Identify negative contractions. Negative contractions are when you take a verb, such as “are” and combine it with “not”. The apostrophe is then used to replace the “o” in “not” so it becomes “n't”. Examples of negative contractions are: “Aren't”: contracted form of “are not” “Can't”: contracted form of “cannot” “Couldn't”: contracted form of “could not” “Daren't”: contracted form of “dare not” “Didn't”: contracted form of “did not” “Doesn't”: contracted form of “does not” “Don't”: contracted form of “do not” “Hasn't”: contracted form of “has not” “Haven't”: contracted form of “have not” “Hadn't”: contracted form of “had not” “Isn't”: contracted form of “is not” “Shouldn't”: contracted form of “should not” “Wasn't”: contracted form of “was not” “Weren't”: contracted form of “were not” “Won't”: contracted form of “will not” “Wouldn't”: contracted form of “would not” Other negative contractions like “mayn't” (contracted form of “may not”), “mustn't” (contracted form of “must not”) and “needn't” (contracted form of “need not”) are considered outdated contractions. They are not used in common speech and are often not used in written language. Understand the double use of some negative contractions. When you are using the verb “to be” in a sentence and you are trying to create the negative form, there are two possible options. For example: “we are not” could be contracted to “we aren't” or “we're not”. “She is not” can be contracted to “she isn't” or “she's not”. “They are not” can be contracted to “they aren't” or “they're not”. The exception is “I am not.” It can only be contracted to “I'm not”. Do not contract “I am not” to “I'm n't” or “I am n't”. In English, the contractions “'s” and “'re” usually appear after pronouns. For example: “We aren't ready yet.” “He's not a good man.” You may put a contraction at the end of a question, such as: “You've spoken to Mark, haven't you?” But if you are putting “am not” at the end of the question, it should be contracted to “aren't”. For example: “I'm early, aren't I?” Apply only one contraction in a sentence. It is grammatically incorrect to put more than one contraction in a sentence that is not a question. For example: “He's not here”, instead of “He's n't free”. Keep in mind positive contractions should appear in the middle or the beginning of the sentence, never at the end of a sentence. For example: “I think we're lost.” “Yes, I think we are.” You would not write, “Yes, I think we're”. Use informal contractions in casual conversation only. Informal contractions like “gonna” (contracted form of “going to”), “wanna” (contracted form of “want to”) and “gimme” (contracted form of “give me”) are not appropriate for formal or informal writing, and should be restricted to casual conversation only. The exception is if you are writing dialogue in a novel, play, or other work of fiction where characters use informal contractions when they are speaking to each other. Informal contractions are not considered proper English and are often frowned upon even in casual speech. Other informal contractions include “whatcha” (contracted form of “what are you”), “ain't” (contracted form of “am not”) and “gotta” (contracted form of “got to”). Apply contractions to a sentence. Choose one to two sentences from a book or a piece of writing that do not contain contractions. Adjust the sentences so they have properly contracted words. For example: “I am going to the store to buy some eggs. We are having omelets for breakfast.” If you adjust the sentences to have contractions: “I'm going to the store to buy some eggs. We're having omelets for breakfast.” Another example might use positive and negative contractions. For example: “You did not go to the store in time. I am making pancakes instead.” The sentence with contractions would be: “You didn't go to the store in time. I'm making pancakes instead.” Distinguish between the use of “it’s” and “its” in a sentence. Tackle one of the most common mistakes in written English by testing your ability to use “it's” and “its” properly in a sentence. For example: “It is time to party.” The sentence with the contraction would be: “It's time to party” as “it's” is the contracted version of “it is”. “The horse lifted its head.” This sentence does not need an apostrophe as the “it” is possessive and not a contraction. Use contractions in a paragraph. Amp up your ability to use contractions correctly by making a list of things you are going to do during your school day. Use “I” or “he” or “she” to describe each action you are going to do today. Don't use any contractions in your paragraph about your day. Then, read it over and adjust it so it has contractions. For example: “I am going to wake up and brush my teeth. Then, I will get dressed and curl my hair. My mom is not going to be happy because I am late for the bus. She will tell me not to eat breakfast and to run for the bus instead. On my walk to school, I will see my friend Lola. Lola is one of my best friends at school.” If you adjust this paragraph so it has contractions: “I'm going to wake up and brush my teeth. Then, I'll get dressed and curl my hair. My mom isn't going to be happy because I'm late for the bus. She'll tell me not to eat breakfast and to run for the bus instead. On my walk to school, I'll see my friend Lola. Lola's one of my best friends at school.”
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Understand when it is appropriate to use a contraction. Use an apostrophe to make a contraction. Recognize the difference between “it’s” and “its”. Familiarize yourself with positive contractions. Keep in mind the double meanings of some positive contractions. Identify negative contractions. Understand the double use of some negative contractions. Apply only one contraction in a sentence. Use informal contractions in casual conversation only. Apply contractions to a sentence. Distinguish between the use of “it’s” and “its” in a sentence. Use contractions in a paragraph.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Shred-Lettuce
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How to Shred Lettuce
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To easily shred lettuce into thin strips, first cut off the tip of the lettuce head with a knife. Cut the head in half, then in quarters. Place a quarter on the cutting board with its cut edges facing up and cut it with a sawing motion into small, 1/4 inch wide strips. To shred with a food processor, cut the stalk from the lettuce head and tear off the leaves. Set your food processor speed to “slow” and feed the leaves into the food processor in small stacks to shred.
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Wash the lettuce. To be sure you aren't ingesting any dirt or pesticides, always wash produce before you prepare it. If the lettuce is marked “ready-to-eat,” the FDA has certified that it is clean and can be eaten as it is, but some experts recommend washing it again when you get home. Remove the outer layers of leaves, until you get to a layer where you can't see any visible dirt or wilted edges. Grasp the entire head of lettuce and run it under running water. Gently scrub the exterior of the lettuce with your fingers to remove any traces of dirt or pesticides. Do not soak your lettuce in a sink filled with water – this will not remove the dirt. Remove the tip of the lettuce head. The stalk of the lettuce tends to be tough and can have a bitter taste. Remove the pale, hard tip of the head and discard it. Also discard any of the outer leaves that appear wilted or discolored. Cut the head of lettuce in half. Put the lettuce on a clean chopping board and use a sharp kitchen knife to cut the head in half, through the root (or stalk). A classic chef's knife with an 8 to 10 inch (20 – 25 cm) blade is recommended for chopping lettuce and most other vegetables. Cut the head into quarters. Set each half of the lettuce, cut side down, on the cutting board. Slice each half in half, through the root (stalk). Shred the quarter head into thin slices. Place the lettuce quarter-section on the cutting board with the outer leaves against the board and the cut edges facing up. Position the knife at the far, right edge of the lettuce and begin cutting with a back and forth sawing motion until you reach the cutting board. Move over approximately 1/4-inch and begin sawing again. The last piece of the head segment may be too small to slice safely. Reposition the small piece on the cutting board so that it lays flat, and finish slicing. Shred another quarter, if needed. Move onto the other half of the lettuce if a lot of shredded lettuce is desired. Slice only what you will need for your meal, and return the remaining uncut portions of lettuce to the refrigerator. Shredded lettuce will brown and wilt more quickly than lettuce that is left intact. Position the lettuce head on the cutting board. The top of the head should be facing down on the cutting board, and the stem of the lettuce will be facing up toward you. If you prefer your lettuce shredded finely, this can be easily done with any sharp chef's knife. Do the initial cutting. Set your knife on the edge of the head and slice straight through it, to create thin slices. Cut the lettuce carefully, using long, firm strokes. Cut to the core. Continue slicing until you reach the pale center of the head of lettuce. Stop slicing when you reach the core of the lettuce. Slice the other side of the lettuce head. Turn the head around and continue slicing on the other side until you reach the core. Stop cutting when you reach the core of the lettuce head. Remove the core from the head of lettuce. Lay the head of lettuce on its side and slice the top of the lettuce from the core, using a sharp chef's knife. Slice off any remaining green leaves, then remove the pale center of the lettuce and discard it. Spread the slices flat on the cutting board. Take the pieces of lettuce that you just sliced, and fan them out on the cutting board. Spread the slices out so that they cover the entire surface of the board. Create thin strips. Use a sharp chef's knife to cut through the lettuce in close rows, moving from left to right across the board. You now have a pile of lettuce strips. Turn the strips into small pieces. Turn the cutting board 90 degrees and cut through the lettuce in close rows from the new direction. This will result in a pile of small pieces of lettuce, like the leaves in a chopped salad. Repeat if desired. If you want even smaller pieces, turn the cutting board 90 degrees and slice through the pieces again. Continue turning and slicing the lettuce until it is as finely shredded and diced as you like. Assemble the food processor. If your processor allows you to select different blades and bowls, choose the correct ones for shredding lettuce. Ideally, you'll want a large bowl and an adjustable slicing disc. Adjust the settings on your food processor. To shred lettuce for a chopped salad, select a slicing disc that will create thick slices. Set the speed setting to “slow.” On a KitchenAid food processor, the 6th notch on the slicing disc will produce the appropriate thickness. Wash the lettuce leaves. Remove the outer layers of leaves, until there is no dirt visible. Be sure to remove any leaves that have wilted. Run the entire head of lettuce under running water, and rub the surface gently with your fingers to remove any remaining dirt or pesticides on the leaves. If the lettuce is marked “ready-to-eat,” it has been certified clean by the FDA. You can eat it as-is, or wash it again, just to be safe. Remove the stalk of the lettuce head. The trunk of the lettuce head tends to be tough, and has a bitter flavor. Using a sharp chef's knife, cut the pale tip from the head and discard it. Stack the leaves. Tear the leaves from the head gently, until you have a pile of lettuce leaves. Stack them together into a small pile. Feed the lettuce into the processor. Place the stack of lettuce leaves into the feed tube or spout, with the blender or food processor on low speed. Gradually feed the leaves into the food processor until they have all been shredded. Transfer the lettuce into a serving bowl. Turn the food processor off, and remove the shredded lettuce leaves. Depending on the type of food processor you have, you may need to disconnect the the collecting bowl from the machine. Transfer the shredded leaves to a serving dish, or to a large mixing bowl if you will be adding more ingredients.
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Wash the lettuce. Remove the tip of the lettuce head. Cut the head of lettuce in half. Cut the head into quarters. Shred the quarter head into thin slices. Shred another quarter, if needed. Position the lettuce head on the cutting board. Do the initial cutting. Cut to the core. Slice the other side of the lettuce head. Remove the core from the head of lettuce. Spread the slices flat on the cutting board. Create thin strips. Turn the strips into small pieces. Repeat if desired. Assemble the food processor. Adjust the settings on your food processor. Wash the lettuce leaves. Remove the stalk of the lettuce head. Stack the leaves. Feed the lettuce into the processor. Transfer the lettuce into a serving bowl.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Dress-Punk
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How to Dress Punk
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To dress punk, focus on minimalistic outfits that go against the norm. For example, a generic outfit for a guy would include black jeans, a bullet belt, a leather jacket, leather studs, and a simple T shirt. Girls' outfits are similar, but can also include patterned shirts and mesh. In addition, both genders tend to wear Converse, Doc Marten, or military-style shoes. But feel free to mix things up to express yourself better.
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Choose your style. Punk started after WWII, but really took off in the 70s. Since it's been around for a while, it's gone through different phases and style twists and modifications. When the norm was long hair in the 70s, punks went short. Punk girls of the 80s went more masculine to combat the more feminine look of the 70s. And then there's glam punk, pop punk, and hardcore punk, just to name a few variations. So what's your take? Glam punk means bright colors, glitter, spandex, leather, leopard print, neons, and satin. Think David Bowie. Metallic jumpsuit? Sure! Pop punk can be found at Hot Topic. Skinny jeans, band tees, pyramid stud belts, skater styles, and wristbands. It's like punk and hipster had a baby together. Hardcore punk is the opposite of what it sounds like. It favors simple clothes that are safe to mosh in. A plain t-shirt and baggy work pants are ideal, eschewing the elaborate fashion of other types of punk, which doesn't really make sense in the first place. Regardless of which style of punk calls to you (and there are many more than what's listed here), it's all defiantly anti-materialistic. No version of the punk way of life caters to the norm or caves into the mainstream. If it's not trendy, it's good. If it makes your mom furrow her brow, it's good. If the cool kids wouldn't be caught dead wearing it, it's good. Master the basics. If you're looking for a good, no-questions-asked punk look, there are a few main tenets that have withstood the test of time. Here are a few ideas to get you started: Guys: black jeans (or any other type of jeans, really), bullet belts and silver stud belts, leather jackets/denim vests (with all your band patches), leather studs and any simple T shirt. As for shoes, Doc martens, converse, or military-style shoes. Girls: black skinny jeans, leopard print or patterned skirts, bullet and stud belts, band tees, leather anything, mesh and ripped mesh, and feel free to throw in a bit of pink. Converse, Doc Martens, and military-style shoes are best. When it comes to band tees, know that everyone is rocking a Ramones or Clash tee. Do yourself a favor and go a little less mainstream punk which, unfortunately, isn't an oxymoron anymore. Hone your DIY skills. Core to the punk image is being anti-brand. Anti big stores, anti-capitalism. And the easiest way to stick it to the man? Do the job yourself. Rip your jeans, take a black marker to your t-shirt, turn wire into jewelry, whatever. If it's made by you, you can make sure no one else has it. If you're lacking in creativity skills, there are still tons of ways to show your own style. Add patches to wherever, get experimental with dyes, and go to town with a pair of scissors. It doesn't have to look good. That's actually the idea. The more not-good it looks, the better. Who knew not being creative would ever come in handy? Choose simple and dirty over clean and chic. There is something decidedly unkempt about the punk look. If your t-shirt has wrinkles, no problem. If your socks look like your grandpa wore them, no problem. If all you're wearing is a t-shirt and jeans and nothing else, no problem. This isn't about trying. This is about throwing on whatever your little hands found in the closet this morning, no worries about it. There was a punk movement that swore by simple clothing simply because it was better for moshing. You would not wear studs in the pit unless you wanna get thrown out for inadvertently poking out a stranger's eye. So when it doubt, keep it easy. Fashion is a mainstream thing, anyway. Mix it up. If your mom were to walk by you, she might say, "You know that shirt doesn't match those pants, right?" Bingo. Nailed it! This is not really about piecing together a cohesive outfit. Feel free to scream British punk on your top half and Celtic punk on your lower. If anybody asks you any questions, just ask them why they're so concerned with labels anyway. Feel free to mix up layers of formal-ness, too. A t-shirt and tie? Why wouldn't you? A skirt and masculine boots? Sure thing. Total bedhead, but an outfit you spent hours on? Why not? If you're female, you can totally rock a tutu with combat boots. Play up your feminine side by juxtaposing it with masculine items. Feather earrings and cargo pants, sexy fishnets and a loose band tee, it's all good. Don't shy away from metal and other textures. There is nothing wrong with rocking a pair of chinos with a mesh top and a leather jacket. Nothing. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Heck, your belt could be a metal chain (in fact, that was a prominent thing in the 80s). Wool socks, leather boots, ripped nylon tights? Yes, please. Most of your clothes are gonna be cotton. To really have a piece stick out, it needs to be something else. This isn't completely necessary -- after all, simple is good -- but if you do want to nail that part of the punk look that is eye-catching, it's a surefire way to go about it. Think black augmented with bright colors. If there's one thing everyone knows (or thinks) about the punk look, it's that it's mostly black. And, in general, this is true. But tried-and-true punk rockers also aren't afraid to throw in a little color. And bright colors at that. Think neons -- blues, pinks, yellows, oranges, greens -- and silver and red. Punk is so not the same as being goth or emo, and this is one of the reasons why. Throw in different influences. Remember how we talked about how punk has gone through all these transitions? Pay 'em homage! Do your research -- there are often military themes, blue-collar themes (work boots and suspenders -- getting down to punk's roots), and British influences. So raid your English uncle's closet. He's bound to have something in there. Body piercings, glitter, rubber, vinyl, kilts, tattoos -- they all have a spot on the spectrum of punk. Bowler hats, studded wristbands, the anarchy symbol, shaved heads or long hair, punk has seen it all. Do whatever the heck you want with your hair. Seriously. Some people will tell you you gotta dye it, but if you take it too far, you'll end up just telling everyone, "Hey, look at me! I'm trying so hard to be anti-conformist!" So you could dye it , but you could also wear a mohawk , shave it all off, or just do absolutely nothing to it whatsoever. It's totally up to you. Not the answer you were looking for? Well, think about your hair the way you think about your clothes. If most people wouldn't sport it, it's probably on the money. So go get that perm, shave in your dog's name, dye just the part by your left ear blue, whatever. Who cares what your hair looks like, you know? . Listen to the music Love it or hate it (since you're here, you probably fall more in the first category), it's still good to know the bands. You'd be on this page all day if we covered them all, so here's a few to get started: Some examples: The Clash The Exploited Minor Threat Rancid The Distillers Stolen Wheelchairs Operation Ivy The Casualties My Chemical Romance Green Day Stiff Little Fingers The Banshees Dead Kennedy Be aware that if you rock the tee-shirt, someone may come up to you and say, "Duuuuude, I love the Adicts! What'd you think of Joker In The Pack?" And then you'll be forced to either make something up and hope for the best, say, "Omg, look over there!" and run the other direction, or admit that you just bought the t-shirt because you thought it looked cool. So do yourself a favor and be part of the scene. If you don't know anything about the band and just bought it because of the logo, you're doing it wrong. Develop something to rebel against. Anything you hate in the world, rebel against it. This is way more important than the clothes. You can be a true original punk and not have all the cool clothes -- the clothes don't mean anything, just a way of identification. In fact, some punk lifers swear that fashion is just a distraction. You do not necessarily need something to rebel against, but "police" generally works in most situations. The man, the establishment, authority in general. Angst is very at home here in punk land. Don't pay attention to what others think about you. If you get a raised eyebrow or two because of your tutu, awesome. If the family doesn't understand why you're wearing a tie over your Black Flag t-shirt, tell them to go to Wikipedia. If your teacher is worried you're going through a detrimental phase, well, prove her wrong by getting an A on the next project. What they think may seem to matter now, but it in the scheme of things, it so doesn't. That's really at the heart of being punk. And don't even pay attention to other "punk" enthusiasts. If they tell you your look isn't punk, they don't get it. Punk isn't something you can put into a box and say this is or is not punk. If you like it and someone else doesn't, you're doing it right. Don't second guess yourself. At the end of the day, to dress punk, just go for it. Whatever it is, go for it.
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Choose your style. Master the basics. Hone your DIY skills. Choose simple and dirty over clean and chic. Mix it up. Don't shy away from metal and other textures. Think black augmented with bright colors. Throw in different influences. Do whatever the heck you want with your hair. . Develop something to rebel against. Don't pay attention to what others think about you.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Buy-Raw-Land
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How to Buy Raw Land
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To buy raw land, or land that is undeveloped, create a budget for what you are willing to spend and expect to pay 20-50% of the total price as a down payment. Then, meet with a real estate agent and set up viewings for available properties. Prepare questions to ask the seller, like whether the property has access to sewage and water and whether there are any environmental restrictions. When you find a property you like, secure a loan and consult with a lawyer to check for liens and other legal issues.
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Determine the reason for buying the land. Buying raw land is different than buying a home, and there are many questions a potential buyer needs to ask before starting the process. Some key questions include: Why are you buying this land? Are you hoping to build a home on the land? Are you planning to farm there, and set up a ranch house and agricultural plots? Are you buying it in hopes it increases in value over time? The answer to all these questions come with specific risks and considerations, and having specific plans for your land is necessary before you begin the process of looking. There are a variety of reasons people buy raw land, including: Farming/ranching. Building a house or home. Diversifying one's portfolio. Speculation (hoping the price will increase later). Come up with a budget. Your budget will need to include money for several steps that most other land and home purchases do not, as well as the common expenses of purchasing land. Plan to include money for the following in your budget: Due diligence. You will need to conduct a lot of research regarding the land you want to purchase that is usually not necessary for developed land. Down payment. If you are purchasing the land to develop a farm or ranch, you may be able to obtain specialized loans, such as those offered by the United States Department of Agriculture Farm Service Agency. Down payments tend to be higher for raw land purchases because things such as houses that banks could use as collateral for the loan do not exist on raw land. Your down payment may range between 20-50% of the total price of the property. Conversion. This includes the costs for anything you will need to do to convert the land for your intended use, such as constructing a home, running sewer lines, etc. Carrying costs. This includes things such as the interest on your loan and any property taxes. Unlike residences, raw land is not considered to depreciate for federal tax purposes, so you can't take a depreciation tax deduction for raw land. Just how much money does this work out to in dollar terms? Typically, for the down-payment and other costs, you should try to have about 20-25% of the purchase price available in cash as a rule of thumb. In addition, you should have a steady stream of income to cover carrying costs (like loan repayments). This will also help you qualify for any lending you may require.. Begin your search for available land. Once you have determined what you want to use the land for and what your budget is, you can begin the search for available land in your price range that meets your requirements. There are a variety of ways in which to begin your search. Scan local newspapers, query farmers in local rural communities, and research evictions, bank foreclosures, and tax sales. Go through a real estate agent. This is a particularly good option when your search is somewhere out-of-state or far away from your current residence. A real estate agent may also be able to tell you whether there are any future zoning plans that could affect your own plans. Investigate neighboring properties. You'll want to know what kind of properties you border, and whether industrial farming or agricultural practices will affect the value or livability of your land. You should also know whether the neighboring properties have any rights of way or easements on the land you're considering. Ensure there's access to sewage and water. Two things that make land essentially useless are a lack of a septic system and/or a water source. These are the most important things to consider when investigating properties. Sewer systems are an important consideration. Off-the-grid land sometimes cannot be connected to a municipal sewer system, so when making purchasing decisions plan for a septic system. Make sure your property is not only zoned for septic, but has the space to install a septic system far enough away to avoid water contamination. Does your land have access to water? Trucking water is expensive and collecting rainwater is inefficient in most places. Make sure you have access and rights to water and, if you plan on digging a well, factor that into your decision as this can become quite expensive. Consider roads and topography. The soil system of your land, and how/if you can reach it by road also determine its worth. Take topography and transportation seriously in the searching process. Does your property have access to a road? If not, you should be willing and able to build one as inaccessible land is also essentially worthless. What is the climate like? If you're buying in an area with cold, snowy winters considering the type of road, if any, leading to your land is particularly important. Once again, check carefully for any easements. An easement means you do not own 100% of your land, and it is possible that a utility company, or other landowner can regularly use your land. This could affect how you can use your land, as well as its success as an investment. Consider electricity. If your property is far off the grid how do you plan on getting electricity to your location? You can pay the power company to string a pole in your direction, which can be expensive, or use alternative sources like wind or solar. What is the topography of your land? Take notice of where water runs and if your land can support infrastructure. Watch for signs of flooding and know soil types and grade. Knowing your soil type also affects your ability to drill and set up a water source like a well, so make sure you factor in the added cost of drilling through something like rock as opposed to a softer soil like sand. Know your rights, and be aware of environmental restrictions. Oftentimes, legal jargon and existing restrictions are difficult to comprehend. Unfortunately, certain restrictions based on zoning and environment can greatly impact the worth of your land and how you can use it. Secure your rights. There are various rights that go into the purchase of raw land. For example, do you have the right to anything found on the land, such as land oil, natural gas, gold, or other valuable materials? Make sure to look into this ahead of time to save yourself a long, legal battle and possible loss of money. Also, consider hunting rights. Owning property, in some areas, gives you a right to refuse hunting on that land. Look into this ahead of time, and consider your own comfort and concerns on the issue of game hunting. How is your land zoned? How and if the land is zoned affects your ability to build a home on your land. Check the land's zoning very closely before signing any paperwork, paying especially close attention to whether the land was previously zoned for anything that may depreciate its value over time. Industrial farming, for example, leaves chemical residues that sinks a land's value. Check any existing environmental restrictions, especially if you are buying very rural land. Waterfronts and wetlands especially have a variety of strict guidelines about use and building, which are limiting for owner's plans. These could include, for example, an endangered species habitat. In addition, if you are planning on farming in any way beyond a simple home garden, you need to make sure your land is zoned for agricultural development. Prepare questions for the seller. Before you begin looking into properties and contacting sellers, prepare a list of questions to ask based around your specific needs and wants to ensure the land is worth viewing. A few general questions to ask the seller or seller's agent include: Is the lot buildable? Are there any restrictions or encroachments on the property I should be aware of before purchasing? Are there any common facilities, like water systems, septic systems, or roads, homeowners or developers need to manage? If so, what will my specific responsibilities be? Will there be homeowner association fees? Are any portions of the land designated wetlands or floodplain? Does the site have access to electricity, natural gas, town water, or sewer? Is there water on site? What is the flow rate and quality? Make a trip to see the land. Nothing will clear up your ideas about what kind of land you want better than actually looking at some properties. You'll immediately realize what appeals to you, and what doesn't and you can weigh the pros and cons of purchasing that particular plot. Look for any structures on the property or on a neighbor's property that cross the property line, and check with your city or county records office about the legality of such structures and what easements neighbors might have. If you're working with an agent, the road you ride in on is likely the most attractive, easiest route to your property. However, it might not be accessible year-round or it may be prone to poor upkeep, plowing, and other services. Ask neighbors or those who live in the route you're taking, if it's always available, and whether it's cared for adequately. Talk to locals while you're there. Ask them if there is reliable cell phone reception in the area, what the seasons are like, what driving conditions are in the nearby roads and highways, and whether the area is prone to any specific environmental hazards. If possible, stay overnight. Ask your agent if setting up camp is possible, and if this is allowed consider pitching a tent for an evening. This will give you the best idea of the daily rhythm of the area, and neighbors, and traffic - if after 24 hours your enthusiasm for the place has waned, imagine being there for 24 years. Consult a lawyer. Because of the additional complexities of buying raw land, it is recommended that you consult with a lawyer once you've identified the property you want to buy. For one, a lawyer can help streamline communication between you and the seller so your rights as owner are clear. Additionally, your lawyer can help you interpret the findings of your due diligence and how it may affect your rights and use of the land. Find a qualified real estate attorney to help you navigate the pricing and other negotiations of the purchase process. Before finalizing the sale, ask your lawyer whether water and mineral rights are a concern in the area. The jargon in regards to such issues, and what your rights are in regards to materials found on your property, can be confusing. A third party can help clear up any uncertainty. Ask about what contingencies you should add to the bid offer, and how much time you need to address these contingencies. Contingencies are conditions that must be met before the closing will take place, such as financing, inspections, and insurance. Before finalizing your bid, ask your lawyer about building requirements and any permits you need, as well as whether there is a warranty deed. You should purchase owner's title insurance at this point. This is typically a seller cost, and requested in the offer as part of the contract. Make an offer, but start low. A down payment for raw land generally falls between 20-50% of the overall price, and many lenders expect you to have made a down payment before they consider granting you a mortgage loan. Do not be afraid to bargain with the seller. You can significantly reduce the overall cost with successful bargaining. Your offer should include an option on the land for a small fee, so that you have the opportunity to do due diligence before completing the purchase. Essentially, this will put the land on “hold” for you while you do your inspections. Alternatively, your offer can include a closing date (the date on which the purchase is completed) far enough into the future to complete the due diligence process. Your offer should also include provisions allowing you to walk away or buy the land for a reduced price depending on the findings of the due diligence process. Cheaper properties make more financial sense when it comes to raw land as land tends to appreciate as it's developed. Look for relatively low-cost options that meet your needs as a buyer. Inquire as to particular property tax savings programs in the state you're buying if you plan to leave the land undeveloped for a significant period of time. These plans can save you a lot of money long term, as taxes and payments are reduced over time on uncultivated land. Secure a loan. Taking out a loan for raw land is tricky and much more difficult than getting a loan for an existing home. This is especially true if you plan to wait years to build. Banks fear the building plans will not come to fruition or you will walk away from the land if it does not appreciate in value. You can minimize the risk of rejection by going in with a very specific plan, and proving you've done adequate research and practiced due diligence to assess the land for your personal needs. If you've contacted the above companies, departments, and professionals you're far more likely to look invested in your plans for the land and therefore be approved for a loan for a down payment. Work with local banks and credit unions. They're familiar with the area, and will know you're making a wise, well researched investment. Remember, your land is undeveloped so down payments and interest rates will be higher than for a typical home mortgage. Keep this in mind as you plan financially for your loan. Your credit score may also have to be higher to buy raw land as there is no building as collateral. Consider owner financing. Owner financing refers to you financing your land purchase through the seller (or owner) of the land. This can be an attractive option for buyers if they are having difficulty obtaining a bank loan, or if interest rates are too high due to poor credit. For the seller, it may be attractive if they are having difficulty selling the property. If these conditions apply, consider approaching the owner and inquiring about owner financing. For example, assume you wanted to buy a plot of land for $1 million. You would pay a down payment to the owner, and then the owner would finance the property and allow you to use the land. You would then pay the owner back regular payments just as you would with a bank loan. Typically, once all payments are complete, the deed to the land would be transferred to you. Benefits of owner financing include lower costs for you (due to the lack of fees like closing fees, and a potentially lower interest rate), no qualifying required (since it is not through a bank), and fast closing of the sale (since there is no third party involved). There are a few risks to be aware of. Typically, these transactions will involve a relatively high down-payment of 20% or more. In addition, it is important to be aware of whether or not the seller still owes money on the land. If so, you are exposing yourself to the risk that the seller could go bankrupt and be unable to make payments. Bring this topic up with both the seller, and your lawyer, to fully understand the risks and what you can do about them. Always involve a lawyer when conducting this sort of transaction. Formal contracts will need to be created and signed, and a lawyer can help to make sure the transaction is fair to you and that the seller meets all their obligations. The lawyer can also assist with the financial aspects of the deal such as interest rates, amortization period, and documentation of the loan. Practice due diligence. It's impossible to identify and assess every sort of risk and delay, but pursuing a program of due diligence can minimize that risk. This usually means hiring several experts to conduct inspections and make inquiries on your behalf. Due diligence takes time and money, which usually comes in the form of an inspection and feasibility study. Make sure to stipulate the amount of days needed to conduct the study and inspection in the offer. The details of this period, and what rights you have during the process, are negotiated between you, the seller, and both of your respective agents. You may be asked to put down some form of financial deposit, sometimes known as earnest money, typically about 1% of the purchase price. Ask the seller to pay for part of these costs. Because due diligence is very expensive, you should request that the seller pay for at least part of your due diligence costs in case something comes up in the process that means you no longer wish to purchase the land. These requests are generally presented with the offer. Hire a surveyor. Even if the seller or real estate agent offers a survey of the land, contract your own surveyor or civil engineer as well. Rural plots can be uneven in size and shape and uninformed buyers or agents might miss certain pitfalls when surveying the land. Know the soil, the topography, the potential value, and where and how you can build. If you have the property surveyed then you may purchase extended title insurance which will protect you against boundary issues. Check the plat. A plat is a map, drawn to scale, of your land that shows the size, shape, and location of your property. Plats are not drawn by private entities, but public works departments and urban planning organizations. They are more informative and legally binding than the standard survey. Be aware of any existing liens. Liens are notices attached to property that tell whether the owner owes money to a creditor. These are public record, and can be obtained from a county records office. A lien on a property can delay your purchase for months or years depending on the type of lien, so be aware. Make a trip to the town or county offices of Building and of Planning and Zoning. These departments can address specific questions about the land you're considering buying, and give you insight as to whether your building plans would work for the area. Ask the Building Office whether the lot is buildable, if there are any existing restrictions on the size of buildings, whether roads surrounding the property are publicly paved and maintained, and what permits, fees, and costs are required. Ask the Planning and Zoning Office how and if the property is zoned, whether your planned use for the lot complies with zoning restrictions, whether there are any restrictions due to environmentally protected areas like wetlands, and how much lot coverage is allowed? Go to the county Health Department. The health department can really solidify the specifics of any plans you have for wells and septic systems, and alert you to any potential dangers of installing them in the area. Ask if tower service is available and what the costs are, what kind of septic systems are permitted, what tests are required, and what time of year they can be performed. Look out for potential problems. Ask whether the area you're looking in has trouble with high water tables or poor soils for septic systems, and whether there are any known problems with water quality in your area. Seek out utility companies in the area. Utility companies can answer questions about access to electricity and other modern amenities. Check if natural gas can be brought to the lot, and what the costs are. What are the options for cell phones, internet, and television? Talk to the Department of Environmental Protection. Environmental restrictions can really throw a snag in building plans, so make sure you know of any going in. The DEP can answer these questions head on. You should also ask them to explain any former use of the land, specifically for environmental issues. If you plan to install a well, speak to more than one driller and then check with the DEP to see if there are any well water issues in your immediate surrounding area. Asks about costs, flow rates, depth of neighboring wells, labor and material costs, and if there are any well water problems in neighboring areas. Close on the property. If your due diligence process does not reveal any major issues and your lawyer agrees that the purchase is a good one, close on your purchase. Depending on where you live, the procedures may vary, and your lawyer and real estate agent will walk you through them. In general, you can expect to see at least the following documents: A land contract. This lists the address of the property and includes a full legal description, including its location, any liens, easements, or other conditions, and the financial information such as purchase price, down payment amount, and number and amounts of monthly payments. The deed. This transfers the legal title to the property from the seller to you. You will sign this when you close on the purchase. A closing statement. An escrow officer or your lawyer can draft this document, which shows the debits and credits for you and the seller as agreed in the contract. For example, it may include an "amortization schedule" that specifies how many payments, in what amount, will pay off the amount you owe on the land.
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Determine the reason for buying the land. Come up with a budget. Begin your search for available land. Investigate neighboring properties. Ensure there's access to sewage and water. Consider roads and topography. Know your rights, and be aware of environmental restrictions. Prepare questions for the seller. Make a trip to see the land. Consult a lawyer. Make an offer, but start low. Secure a loan. Consider owner financing. Practice due diligence. Ask the seller to pay for part of these costs. Hire a surveyor. Check the plat. Be aware of any existing liens. Make a trip to the town or county offices of Building and of Planning and Zoning. Go to the county Health Department. Seek out utility companies in the area. Talk to the Department of Environmental Protection. Close on the property.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Body-Acne
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How to Get Rid of Body Acne
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To get rid of body acne, wash the area with a gentle facial cleanser while you're in the shower to remove dirt, sweat, and body oil from your pores. Additionally, try topical creams and lotions that include alpha hydroxy acids or benzoyl peroxide, which prevent pores from clogging. You can also use aloe vera as a daily moisturizer for your skin since it has anti-acne benefits. Also, aim to wear loose-fitting clothing since tight clothes can trap oils and dirt against your skin.
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Use a gentle skin cleanser. The same facial cleansers used for acne on your face can generally be applied to any part of the body that's prone to acne outbreaks. If you know that you tend to get a lot of acne on your back, for example, you may want to try using a facial cleanser specifically for your back on a regular basis to help prevent future outbreaks. Facial cleansers help remove dirt, sweat, body oil, and anything else that might clog your pores. Choose a gentle cleanser that won't irritate or damage your skin. Even though your back (for example) may not be as sensitive as your face, it's still best to avoid irritating your skin with harsh cleansers. Work your chosen cleanser into a lather, then apply it to the part of your body most susceptible to acne outbreaks. Thoroughly wash the cleanser away under running water like you would for your face. It's best to treat body acne in the shower, as washing your back or neck may get messy in the sink. Try over-the-counter topical creams and lotions. There are many over-the-counter topical creams and lotions available that help treat acne. While it may be difficult to navigate which products are most effective, you can compare products by their ingredients to get a better sense of what products you need. Common over-the-counter topical ingredients include: Alpha hydroxy acids - remove dead skin cells to prevent pores from clogging, reduce skin inflammation, and stimulate new skin growth. Benzoyl peroxide - kills bacteria on your skin that may cause pores to clog Retinoid creams/lotions - help unclog pores and help remove dead skin cells to prevent future pore clogs. Salicylic acid - helps prevent pores from plugging Sulfur - helps remove both dead skin cells and excess body oil from the skin Steer clear of irritants. Certain irritants may contribute to acne across your body, especially if you are prone to sweating. One of the most common irritants for body acne is tight clothing, which may hold sweat and oil against the pores of the skin. Wear loose-fitting clothes and avoid tight-fitting straps from accessories like backpacks and sports equipment. These may cause additional friction against your sensitive skin, and may further trap oil and dirt against your pores. Look into oral antibiotics. While topical antibiotics are effective for mild to moderate acne, oral antibiotics are typically prescribed for more moderate to severe acne outbreaks across the body. Oral antibiotics are usually only given for a predetermined length of time, after which you will need to taper off your use of the medication. Commonly prescribed oral antibiotics for treating acne include minocycline and doxycycline, which are both tetracyclines. Side effects include increased sensitivity to the sun, so make sure to wear sunscreen. Do not use in children under age of 9 or in pregnant women as there is an increased risk of reduced bone growth or permanent teeth discoloration. Ask your doctor if oral antibiotics are right for you. Consider using retinoid topicals. Much like the over-the-counter topicals available at most pharmacies, prescription-strength retinoids help reduce acne outbreaks by preventing pores from becoming clogged. Retinoids are derived from vitamin A and come in many prescription-strength forms, including tretinoin (Avita), adapalene (Differin), and tazarotene (Tazorac). Use retinoids topically on the skin. Apply it in the evening, and allow your skin to grow accustomed to its use. You only need a pea-sized amount to cover the face. For best results, begin using retinoids three times each week, then increasing your use to a daily schedule as your skin gets used to the medication. Retinoids commonly cause skin irritation, flaky skin and dryness. You can minimize these side effects by starting with the lowest concentration of medication available. If your skin can tolerate these lower concentrations, you may start increasing the strength. Avoid using retinoids at the same time as over-the-counter acne medication. Retinoids can also increase your sensitivity to the sun. Wear sunscreen, and cover your skin with protective clothing, such as hats and jackets.. Talk to your doctor about topical antibiotics. Prescription-strength topical antibiotics can help kill excess bacteria on the surface of your skin, which may otherwise result in clogged pores and outbreaks. Topical antibiotics may also reduce redness in acne-prone skin. Many topical antibiotics are also combined with benzoyl peroxide, which can help reduce the chances of developing antibiotic-resistant bacteria on your skin. Common topical antibiotics combined with benzoyl peroxide include clindamycin (Benzaclin) and erythromycin (Benzamycin). Dapsone is a topical gel that is often prescribed to treat acne. It is usually combined with a topical retinoid component to maximize its effectiveness. Dapsone may cause skin irritation, redness, and dryness Ask your doctor about oral contraceptives. Combined oral contraceptives may be useful in treating acne for women and adolescent girls. These specialized pills often combine estrogen with progestin, and are available in three different forms: Ortho Tri-Cyclen, Estrostep, and Yaz. Common side effects include headache, nausea, weight gain, breast tenderness, and periodic bleeding, though more serious side effects could include a risk of blood clots. Ask your doctor if a combined oral contraceptive is right for you. Discuss anti-androgen agents. Anti-androgen agents like spironolactone (Aldactone) can help block sebaceous glands from being affected by androgen hormones. These medications are typically prescribed to women and adolescent girls who have not had success with oral antibiotics in treating acne. Commonly reported side effects include breast tenderness, painful periods, and the body's retention of potassium. Consider isotretinoin. Isotretinoin is a very strong oral medication that is usually reserved for people who have not responded to other acne treatments. The side effects of isotretinoin include ulcerative colitis, an elevated risk of depression and depression-related suicide, and severe birth defects in pregnant women. Taking isotretinoin requires continued monitoring by your doctor to prevent or detect these side effects before they become problematic. Common forms of isotretinoin include Amnesteem, Claravis, and Sotret. Look for a body cleanser that contains fruit acids. Fruit acids have been shown to help with acne, so choosing a cleanser that contains one of these acids may help to control your body acne. For example, you could look for a cleanser that contains citric acid, which comes from citrus fruits. Other fruit acids include gluconolactone, glycolic, gluconic, malic, and tartaric acids. Wash your skin no more than twice per day. Shampoo daily if your acne appears along or on your hairline. You can also use a mild soap to cleanse your skin, such as Dove or Cetaphil. Cleanse your skin by taking a shower or bath. You should also wash your skin any time it becomes sweaty. Avoid scrubbing, which may irritate your skin. Use your fingertips or a soft washcloth to wash your skin. Pat your skin dry with a clean towel after you finish. Use aloe vera to moisturize your skin. Aloe vera can help to keep your skin moisturized and it may also provide some anti-acne benefits. Try using aloe vera as a daily moisturizer for your skin after cleansing. For example, you could replace your usual body lotion with a layer of pure aloe vera gel. Some people are sensitive to aloe vera. Stop using it if it causes redness, burning, a stinging sensation, or a rash. Try tea tree oil gel. A five percent concentration tea tree oil gel may help to for some people. Its effects have even been compared to benzoyl peroxide, which is a medicine that is included in some acne-fighting skin products. You will have to apply the gel to your skin every day. Make sure that your skin is clean and dry before you apply the gel. Test the product on a small patch of skin before you apply it over a large area. Some people experience redness and irritation from tea tree oil. Use a lotion that contains 2% green tea extract. A lotion that contains 2% green tea extract may help with mild to moderate acne. Look for a lotion that contains 2% green tea extract and apply it daily after cleansing your skin. Make sure that you test the lotion on a small portion of your skin before you apply it over a large area. Consider taking a Brewer's yeast supplement. Ingesting CBS 5926, a specific strain of brewer's yeast, may help to reduce acne outbreaks. You can take brewer's yeast powder, flakes, tablets, or liquid. If using flakes or powder, then a typical dose is one to two tablespoons per day. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for tablets or a liquid. Taking a brewer's yeast supplement may cause flatulence. If you are prone to yeast infections, these supplements may worsen your symptoms. Spend a little time in the sun. A little sunlight exposure may also help to combat acne, so you may want to consider spending 10 to 15 minutes outside in the sun every day. Make sure that you do not get too much sun exposure or use tanning in an effort to combat acne. You can damage your skin from too much sun exposure or tanning. This will also increase your risk of developing skin cancer. Make sure that you are always using a sunscreen with at least SPF 30 before going out into the sun. Use light therapy. Light therapy comes in a variety of forms, as researchers have yet to find a definitively successful method and dose. This form of therapy works by using light exposure to kill bacteria that causes acne. Depending on the type of light therapy being used, you may be able to complete this therapy method at home, or you may need to visit your doctor's office. Possible side effects include pain, red skin, and increased sensitivity. Get a chemical peel. In this therapy method, a chemical solution (like salicylic acid) is applied to the skin to treat the site of acne. Chemical peels may be highly effective for some people, but should not be used by anyone taking oral retinoids, as the combination may cause significant skin irritation. Possible side effects of chemical peels include severe redness of the skin, scaling/blistering, and long-term skin discoloration. Have your comedones extracted. If you haven't had any luck with topical or oral treatments, a dermatologist may be able to manually remove whiteheads and blackheads from your skin. This should only be done by a qualified dermatologist in a controlled setting and using a specialized tool, and may cause permanent scarring of the skin. Consider steroid injections. Some acne conditions, like nodular and cystic lesions, may be treated with steroid injections. A dermatologist will inject a steroid treatment directly into the lesion, which may improve your skin without having to extract the comedone. However, this treatment option may cause thinner skin, a lighter/paler complexion, and visible blood vessels at the site of treatment.
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Use a gentle skin cleanser. Try over-the-counter topical creams and lotions. Steer clear of irritants. Look into oral antibiotics. Consider using retinoid topicals. Talk to your doctor about topical antibiotics. Ask your doctor about oral contraceptives. Discuss anti-androgen agents. Consider isotretinoin. Look for a body cleanser that contains fruit acids. Use aloe vera to moisturize your skin. Try tea tree oil gel. Use a lotion that contains 2% green tea extract. Consider taking a Brewer's yeast supplement. Spend a little time in the sun. Use light therapy. Get a chemical peel. Have your comedones extracted. Consider steroid injections.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Fake-Abs
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How to Fake Abs
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To fake defined abs, try contouring your abs with makeup. Start by rubbing foundation or tinted moisturizer onto your stomach. Once your skin is dry, flex your abs so you can see where you'll need to draw the lines to define them. Draw a single line with a creasing brush down the center of your abdomen and 2 lines below your ribcage with bronzer. You should also draw 2 further lines running down each side of your belly from your ribcage. Next, blend the lines in with a powder brush, and fill in the spaces between the lines using another creasing brush and some highlighter.
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Choose a foundation, tinted moisturizer, or sunscreen to use as your base. Before you can start creating your fake abs, you need to have some sort of canvas for the makeup to hold on to. This base or "canvas" can be a foundation that closely matches your skin tone , a tainted moisturizer, or sunscreen. You can also use a tinted sunscreen, or you can create your own by mixing little bit of liquid foundation that is close to your skin tone with your sunscreen. Choose something that suits your needs: Foundation will give you the most coverage and will help even out your skin tone. A cream foundation will be more opaque than a liquid foundation. A tinted moisturizer will help moisturize and condition your skin, as well as even out your skin tone. It will not have the same coverage as foundation, however. Sunscreen will protect the tender skin on your abdomen against sunburn. If you add some foundation to it, it will also help even out your skin tone a little. Choose a powder bronzer. You want the bronzer to be about two shades darker than your skin tone. Do not use a shimmering bronzer, as shimmer causes things to pop out—use a matte bronzer instead. You will be creating fake shadows to give the illusion of a toned abdomen, so you want something that looks natural. If you cannot find a non-shimmering bronzer, you can substitute a brown eyeshadow or pressed powder foundation instead, as long as it is no more two shades darker than your skin tone. Choose a powder highlighter. You want the highlighter to be a shade lighter than your skin tone. This powder can be shiny, as shine causes things to pop out. If you cannot find powder highlighter, you can substitute with pressed powder foundation that is several shades lighter than your skin tone, or a pale ivory eyeshadow. Find a powder brush and two creasing brushes. You will need two types of brushes: a large powder brush, and a creasing brush. If you cannot find a creasing brush, you can substitute with a small, round-tipped makeup brush. You will need two of these creasing (or round-tipped) brushes: one for the bronzer, and one for the highlighter. If you cannot find a second creasing brush, you can use the same brush for both the bronzer and highlight. Just make sure you clean the brush by swiping it over a tissue until you cannot see any more bronzer on it. Choose a well-lit area. Having a bright light above you will make it easier for you to see your muscles and the shadows they cast. Expose your abdomen. While it is recommended to take off your clothes to prevent staining them with makeup, you can wear an old swimsuit or workout outfit instead. You want your abdomen to be exposed. Do not wear the same outfit that you plan on wearing later with your fake abs. Not only do you risk staining your outfit, but the makeup stains might give your secret away. Decide how much muscle you want to add. Do you want a six pack? A four pack? A two pack? Consider this before applying your makeup. Apply your foundation, tinted moisturizer, or sunscreen to your abdomen. Using your fingers, rub the foundation, tinted moisturizer, or sunscreen onto your skin. Be sure to cover any areas of your abdomen that will be exposed, and to blend in the edges if you are using foundation or a tinted moisturizer. If you are using foundation, you can use foundation brush or a cosmetic wedge instead of your fingers. Wait for the base to dry out. To avoid ruining your brushes in the next few steps, wait for the foundation, tinted moisturizer, or sunscreen you have just applied to dry out. You can tell if it has dried out if your skin no longer looks shiny, moist, or dewy. When in doubt, you can always touch your abdomen with your finger. If your finger comes away with makeup, moisturizer, or sunscreen on it, then you need to wait longer. Flex your abdominal muscles. Flexing your abdomen will help you find those muscles and highlight them in the next steps. You do not have to flex your abdomen the entire time, but it is a good idea to do so before drawing each line to ensure that you are placing the shadows in their proper locations. Apply some powder bronzer to your creasing brush. Swivel your brush in your powder bronzer and tap the brush to get rid of the extra. You can also blow lightly on your brush to dislodge any extra powder. Draw a vertical line down the center of your abdomen. Take your brush, and create a single stroke down the center of your abdomen. You want the line to extend from just below your ribcage to your belly button. If the line is not dark enough, you may go back over it again, but try not to use too many layers. You want the line to be light. If it is too dark, it will look fake and unnatural. Apply more bronzer to the area just below your ribcage. Load up your brush with more bronzer, and create two more lines just below your ribcage. You are drawing something that looks like an upwards-pointing arrow. Create two more vertical lines. Flex your abdomen again, if necessary, and find the vertical grooves to either side of your belly. They begin just below your ribcage and extend down towards your belly. Once you have found them, draw a line down each one using your bronzer and brush. If you flex your abdomen, you may find some horizontal grooves to either side of your belly button. They extend from the belly button and connect with the vertical lines you have just drawn. If you wish to have a more defined abdomen, you can fill them in with bronzer, just as you have the other lines. Use a powder brush to blend the lines. Take a powder brush, and brush it over the lines you have just made using brisk, up-and-down motions. You may also have to brush side-to-side to blend further. This blends the lines in, and makes the shading less harsh. If the lines appear too dark, do not panic! Simply take some pressed powder foundation that matches your skin tone, load it up onto your powder brush, and brush it over your abdomen. This will help lighten the shading and blend everything together. Look at your abdomen. You have just applied the base and added some shading, creating something that looks like an upward-pointing arrow and some boxes. These boxes are your muscle, and will need some more defining. Take a fresh creasing brush and apply powder highlighter to it. Simply swivel your brush in the highlighter, and then tap the brush to get rid of any extra powder. You can also blow on the brush to dislodge any excess. Fill the boxes in using the powder highlighter. Take the brush, and lightly apply the highlighter to the muscles. Using a tapping or dabbing motion at first, then blend in the edges using a brushing, left-to-right and up-and-down, motion. Blend, blend, blend. Pick up your powder brush, and using a circular motion, go over the lines you have made. Finished. Look at yourself in the mirror, and be sure to examine your work from every angle: front, left, and right. If necessary, apply more bronzer or highlighter, but be sure to blend it again. To make it mostly waterproof, you can spray a layer of hairspray on top of the makeup. If your highlighter is too light and your bronzer is too dark, and blending did not help, you can further soften it by going back over it with pressed powder foundation. Simply swivel your powder brush into some pressed powder foundation that closely matches your skin tone, and dust it over your abdomen.
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Choose a foundation, tinted moisturizer, or sunscreen to use as your base. Choose a powder bronzer. Choose a powder highlighter. Find a powder brush and two creasing brushes. Choose a well-lit area. Expose your abdomen. Decide how much muscle you want to add. Apply your foundation, tinted moisturizer, or sunscreen to your abdomen. Wait for the base to dry out. Flex your abdominal muscles. Apply some powder bronzer to your creasing brush. Draw a vertical line down the center of your abdomen. Apply more bronzer to the area just below your ribcage. Create two more vertical lines. Use a powder brush to blend the lines. Look at your abdomen. Take a fresh creasing brush and apply powder highlighter to it. Fill the boxes in using the powder highlighter. Blend, blend, blend. Finished.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Raise-Goldfish-Fry
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How to Raise Goldfish Fry
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To raise goldfish fry, start by transferring the eggs to a separate tank filled with 6-7 inches of water. Make sure the tank has an aerator and filtration system, and keep it between 70-75 degrees Fahrenheit. You should also line the bottom of the tank with large, smooth pieces of gravel. Once your goldfish fry hatch, feed them a powder-based fish food several times a day. Also, replace 25 percent of the water in their tank every week to keep it clean and healthy.
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Remove the eggs from the tank. You want to remove the eggs as soon as they are laid. If you are intentionally breeding goldfish, you may have spongy material known as "spawning mops." Goldfish may also lay their eggs in fixtures in the tank, such as underwater castles. Wherever your goldfish have spawned on, remove this material from the tank. Gently flush the material in clean water. You want to make sure any debris from the tank is removed. Once the material is removed and flushed, you can transfer it to a new environment. Create good hatching conditions. Once the eggs hatch, you want to make sure the conditions in your tank are safe and hospitable. Transfer your eggs to a clean environment. When you place the fry eggs in the aquarium, do not fill the tank too deep. Ideally, a fry aquarium should only have water 6 to 7 inches deep. The eggs should hatch 4 to 5 days after being laid. Keep the tank at the right temperature. Goldfish fry require warmer temperatures than average fish to thrive. You'll need to keep the tank between 70–75 °F (21.1–23.9 °C). You may need to install a heater, which you can purchase at a local pet store, in the tank. Keep a thermometer in the tank so you can make sure the water is always around the proper temperature. Make sure to have a filtration system. Fish tanks get dirty very easily without proper filtration, which can be particularly dangerous for young fish. Stop by your local pet store and pick up a power filter, which is a filtration system that hangs on the back of a goldfish tank. Filtration systems are generally simple to install as long as you follow instructions carefully. They can usually be fitted onto the bank of most fish aquariums. There is really no such thing as too much filtration when it comes to goldfish, as they're particularly messy. It may be a good idea to install two filters. In the event one filter gives out, a second filter can pick up the slack. Exposure to germs, even for a brief period, can be dangerous for young goldfish fry. Aerate the tank. An aeration system must be put in place to make sure your fish get enough oxygen. Air stones or bubble wands, which you can purchase at most pet stores, work well for aeration in a goldfish tank. As with a filtration system, it's a good idea to have two bubble wands in place as they can clog easily. Air stones break down with time when submerged in water, so make sure to replace air stones frequently. Replace air stones when they begin to look cracked and broken down. Place smooth gravel at the bottom of the tank. You should choose large, smooth bits of gravel to fill the bottom of the pond. Gravel too small could be swallowed by a goldfish. It's a good idea to look through a bag of gravel to check for jagged bits of gravel as well. Discard any pointy stones, as goldfish could scrape their stomachs. Feed the fry a healthy diet. When growing, fry should be fed several times a day. Make sure you choose a high quality fish flake that is small enough for fry consumption. Powder-based foods are generally safe for goldfish fry. This is mostly a mix of algae and processed foods and contains the right minerals and vitamins for goldfish fry. You should also provide pellets for adult fish as a supplement to their diet. You may have to break dry pellets apart before feeding them to fish fry, however, as they may be too big for the fry to eat. Replace the water regularly. About 25% of the tank's water should be replaced on a weekly basis. Fish fry are dirty, so their water becomes contaminated quickly. Make sure to add water of the same temperature to the tank. It can be difficult to see goldfish fry in a larger aquarium when they are very young. Therefore, be careful when you remove the water from the tank. Use a transparent container to scoop out the water. Check for any goldfish fry before disposing. If you see a goldfish fry in the water you scooped out, use a smaller container, like a small piece of Tupperware, to scoop out the goldfish fry and transfer it back into the tank. Keep the water at a steady temperature. Rapid changes in water temperature can be dangerous for goldfish fry. Remember, the water should be between 70 and 75 degrees Fahrenheit. There should not be temperature fluctuations more than a few degrees a day. If the tank's temperature fails to stay the same, you may have to install a heating system. Expect to lose some goldfish fry. Even with proper care, not all goldfish fry will survive into adulthood. Unfortunately, on average only about 30% of the fry make it to adulthood. About 5% of fry are born with a deformity that kills them off quickly, and 60% will die of disease. Do not feel discouraged or at fault if only a few of your fry survive. This is a normal part of the process. Remove the parents from the tank. Goldfish will eat their eggs, or eat the fry after they hatch. As soon as you notice eggs, remove the parents from the tank and transfer them somewhere else until the goldfish are grown. You can also remove the eggs from the tank and transfer. Get fluke medication. Fluke, a type of disease, can cause an unusual number of fry to die. It's a good idea to have fluke medication on hand. If you notice the fry are dying quickly, dispense the medication. You can buy fluke medication at a local pet store. There should be instructions on the box on how to administer the medication. The sooner you intervene, the better. You can save a good portion of your fry with quick intervention in the event of a fluke outbreak. Add anti-fungal liquid to the water. Not all goldfish fry eggs are fertile. Infertile eggs will grow fungus, which can affect the development of fertile eggs. You can purchase an anti-fungal liquid at your local pet store. You should administer the recommended amount to the tank within a few days of the eggs hatching. Usually, you add enough that the water turns a blueish color.
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Remove the eggs from the tank. Create good hatching conditions. Keep the tank at the right temperature. Make sure to have a filtration system. Aerate the tank. Place smooth gravel at the bottom of the tank. Feed the fry a healthy diet. Replace the water regularly. Keep the water at a steady temperature. Expect to lose some goldfish fry. Remove the parents from the tank. Get fluke medication. Add anti-fungal liquid to the water.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Bond-with-a-Macaw
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How to Bond with a Macaw
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When you first get your macaw, start building a bond by petting it appropriately and touching only its head and feet. If you stroke your macaw's back, it may think you are trying to mate. While your bird is acclimating to its new home, let it out of the cage for at least 20 minutes a day if it's calm enough. You can also help your bird feel comfortable by sticking to a daily routine and giving it time around the whole family. Finally, take time to understand your parrot's body language. For example, hopping and tail shaking means it's ready to play!
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Learn how to correctly pet your macaw. Proper handling is a vital part of acclimating and socializing your new bird. Pet or caress its head and feet only, as it might interpret full strokes from the head to tail as mating behavior. It might become more possessive of you if it views you as a mate instead of as a companion. It'll appreciate head scratches, where itchy new feathers grow that it can't quite reach. Touching its feet will help prepare it for nail trimmings in the future. Provide plenty of out of cage time during the first two days. If your macaw is already tame and confident, start forging your bond by spending lots of out-of-cage time with it. When you first bring it home, keep it out of its cage for at least 20 minutes, and try to keep cage time to a minimum during the day. If you keep it in its cage when you first bring it home, it might view the cage as its only safe spot. Close off the room where the cage is located, and hang out with your bird in the secured room to help it get used to you and its new home. If the bird isn't tame or seems anxious, keep it in its cage until it gets used to its new home. Establish a routine. Feed and play with your bird at approximately the same daily times, and work on getting it used to being alone for a little while. Try leaving the house, then come back inside immediately. Leave again and stay outside for longer increments to help prevent separation anxiety when you leave for a longer duration. When you enter the house, don't rush to the cage. Wait a few minutes before approaching the cage so the bird doesn't expect immediate attention when you walk in the door. Have all of your household members interact with your macaw. Macaws often bond with just one owner or household member. Have everyone in your home talk, play, and offer treats to your new macaw to socialize it. It might not truly bond with others, but it'll become used to their presence. Get to know your bird’s body language. Observing your individual bird is the best way to learn how it communicates. However, some behaviors have common meanings among parrots. For example, a lifted crest, tail shake, hopping, and hanging from the cage usually mean it wants to play. A fully extended or flat crest accompanied by hissing is a sign of aggression. Tail bobbing (pumping with its breath) means your parrot is trying to catch its breath. Spend lots of quality time with your macaw. All macaw species are social and fairly dependent birds. You'll need to spend time with it every day, and it shouldn't go more than several hours by itself. Talk, dance, and play with your macaw daily, and keep its cage in a place where it can see you when you're reading, watching television, or just relaxing. Avoid going out of town for the first year. When you do eventually have to leave it for more than a day, have someone you and the parrot both trust housesit. Provide plenty of toys and teach your macaw how to play with them. Keep a steady rotation of toys with a variety of colors, textures, and moving parts. When you introduce a new toy, play with it yourself in front of your macaw so it understands that the new object is a fun thing. Given their intelligence, food dispensing puzzle toys are great for macaws. Replace an older toy with a new one or another from its collection every week or two so it doesn't get bored. Make sure your macaw has objects it can chew and destroy. Macaws love to chew and destroy, so give it parrot chew toys, cardboard, wood scraps, and natural branch perches (such as manzanita or eucalyptus) to help satisfy its instinct to nibble. Providing objects it can chew will help keep it from biting or nibbling on your fingers. Nothing is worse for bonding with your macaw than a bite from its powerful beak. Use food rewards to train your macaw. Macaws are food-driven birds, so treats will come in handy during training. Experiment with a variety of parrot treats and seeds to find its favorites. Offer treats when you're teaching it specific commands and to reinforce acceptable behavior. You can also try sharing your own food, as long as it's bird-friendly. For example, you could eat a banana in front of the bird and offer him a small slice. This can help it bond with and trust you. Teach your macaw the step up command. Having it step up onto your hand or arm is the safest way to handle a large bird, and most parrots can easily learn the command. Hold your arm or a handheld perch just above and in front of your parrot's feet. Offer a treat to encourage it to get onto your arm or the perch, and say “Step up!” Give it the treat even if it just reaches without stepping up. Repeat the process until it actually steps up, but take breaks if your bird shows signs of frustration. Towel train your bird. Teaching your macaw to love towels will make it easier to restrain it if it ever becomes necessary. Show it a hand towel and offer a treat when your bird investigates it. Play games like peekaboo and tug, and give lots of verbal praise when it's near the towel so it forms a positive association. If you need to restrain your bird to bring it to the vet or give it medicine, a positive association with the towel will help keep it calm. Teach your bird to talk. While they're not considered the best talkers in the parrot family, macaws can be taught to memorize words. When teaching your macaw to talk, speak clearly, slowly, and start with easy words like “hello,” “bird,” or its name. Repeat the word over and over again, and offer treats and lots of praise when it speaks for the first time. Use positive reinforcement training to deal with behavior issues. Ignore negative behaviors as best you can, and offer treats and praise to reinforce acceptable behaviors. Avoid using force or yelling to punish negative behaviors, or you might accidentally reinforce them. For example, train your macaw to make less noise by ignoring sounds you don't like and offering treats when it makes quieter vocalizations. Keep in mind macaws are naturally noisy, so you'll have to accept some vocalizations. If it bites or acts aggressively, blow gently in its face to deter its biting, but otherwise ignore it. Give it a treat when you see it playing nicely and independently with its toys. When you ignore unwanted behaviors, don't even look at your macaw. If possible, leave the room for a few minutes.
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Learn how to correctly pet your macaw. Provide plenty of out of cage time during the first two days. Establish a routine. Have all of your household members interact with your macaw. Get to know your bird’s body language. Spend lots of quality time with your macaw. Provide plenty of toys and teach your macaw how to play with them. Make sure your macaw has objects it can chew and destroy. Use food rewards to train your macaw. Teach your macaw the step up command. Towel train your bird. Teach your bird to talk. Use positive reinforcement training to deal with behavior issues.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Pay-Maximum-Attention-While-Driving
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How to Pay Maximum Attention While Driving
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The best way to ensure you're paying the maximum amount of attention while driving is to limit anything that could distract you from the road, such as a ringing cell phone or stressful conversation. Keep distracting electronics at bay by putting your phone somewhere you can't reach before you start driving, and ask passengers to save important discussions for when you're safely parked so you can give them your full attention. While driving, check your mirrors frequently so you can stay aware of what is happening around you, and focus on paying close attention to other drivers and any upcoming obstacles, like animals or pedestrians.
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Stow or secure all loose items before you set off. A common source of distraction is caused by loose items rolling about the floor of the vehicle as you drive. Ensure you stow all loose items in containers such as the glovebox, the boot or the center console before you begin driving. Ensure groceries are stowed safely in the boot of the vehicle or inside the roofbox if you have one, before driving home. Make sure anything you keep in the cabin of your car is secure and won't roll about as you drive. Finish dressing and grooming at home. Some drivers use their daily commute before work as an opportunity to complete their grooming regiment prior to stepping foot in the office. This can be dangerous because it takes your focus off of the road. Make sure to finish shaving or applying make-up at your house prior to driving to work. Make any grooming corrections once you have pulled over or arrived at your workplace. Adjust your mirrors before you set out. If you share your vehicle with someone else, you may find the driver's seat and/or the mirrors on your vehicle are not set properly for your needs when you get into the vehicle. Make sure to look at and adjust your mirrors prior to driving off. Adjusting your mirrors as you drive can lead to you losing control of the vehicle and being involved in an accident. Ensure you have full visibility of your mirrors before setting out on any trip. Check your mirrors frequently. As you drive, you should get into a habit of checking your mirrors periodically. This will ensure you have an understanding of everything that is going on around your vehicle and help ensure you aren't taken by surprise by pedestrians or other drivers. Checking your mirrors approximately every thirteen seconds is what is expected in the UK. However, varying on your whereabouts, you may need to check them more often than this. Be cautious. Get into the habit of checking each mirror and your speedometer at regular intervals as you drive. Always check your mirrors before turning or changing lanes. Pay close attention to drivers around you. Keep track of all other vehicles around you on the road. Whether you're on a highway with multiple lanes of traffic heading in the same direction or on a residential road with a single lane going each way, keep track of the vehicles around to make sure you don't lose them in a blind spot. You can lose track of vehicles in your mirrors, but if you've been paying attention you should still know where they are. Look for upcoming risks or obstacles. As you pay close attention to the road around you and other vehicles, you can start to anticipate possible risks or dangerous situations before they present themselves. Try to identify risky situations and act to avoid them before they happen. Look for people or animals on the side of the road, and give them plenty of room. Do not toot your horn at horses; as this will scare them and could lead to the equestrian getting hurt, or even killed. Be tolerant and be prepared to switch off your engine to allow livestock to pass if need be. Keep track of things going on around you so you can anticipate risky situations before they occur. Avoid stressful or emotional conversations while driving. Even if you are looking directly at the road as you drive, you can become mentally distracted, which will prevent you from reacting to obstacles that appear in front of you as you drive. If a passenger brings up a subject you feel strongly about, wait until you've parked the vehicle to discuss the topic. Difficult conversations can distract the driver from things that occur on the road. It can be difficult to pay attention when experiencing strong emotions. Make sure children and pets are secure. Before setting off on a journey of any length, make sure children are safely strapped and secured in car seats and any animals in the vehicle are safely placed where they cannot interfere with or distract your driving. If your dog is restless, put it inside the boot and have a barrier installed between the back seat and the boot ao that it cannot jump over. For extra security, put in in a cage; but ensure it has access to drinking water and gets to stretch it's legs once you stop the car. Have a rest break if embarking on a long journey, and take the dog a walk aswell. Small dogs and similar-sized pets should be kept off of the driver's lap while driving to avoid distractions. Cage them so they don't jump around. Make sure all children are wearing their seat belts and unable to move freely within the vehicle to cause distractions. Keep snacks or toys where your passengers can access them. Children will often fuss if they do not have access to their usual snacks or toys during a car journey. If you have a passenger that may create a distraction, make sure they have everything they need prior to setting off on a trip. Keep snacks or toys within the reach of children so they don't attempt to unbuckle their seat belts or leave car seats. If your vehicle is fitted with a child lock, use it so that the children can't open it from the inside. Reaching around the car to get snacks or pass things to a child can be extremely dangerous while driving. If there are several passengers, you can ensure that another passenger will cater to the needs of the children (eg. snacks, toys, cleaning up) so as to take the worry off the driver. Ask passengers to respect that you’re driving. If you are driving with other people in the vehicle, ask that they respect the fact that you would like to drive without distraction. This means passengers should remain in their seats, not move around the vehicle, not play loud music, and not try to gain your attention while you're driving. Passengers should not attempt to distract you or gain your attention while driving; unless it is an emergency. Passengers should remain buckled up and seated while you drive. Pull over when you can’t avoid a distraction. If something comes up that is unavoidable, such as an important telephone call or a discussion that requires the driver's full attention, simply pull over to avoid allowing the distraction to become dangerous. Pulling over on the side of the road to take phone calls or engage in discussions is safer than doing so as you drive. Using a mobile phone behind the wheel is illegal in many jurisdictions/countries. You can get a hefty fine and/or a driving ban as a result of being caught. Use a hands-free kit or switch your phone off before driving to be extra safe. On many highways, there are rest stops specifically for the sake of phone calls or other things a driver may need to do whilst on the road. Choose your music or radio station while stopped. Many people choose to listen to music or talk radio while driving, but in order to ensure you minimize distractions, don't try to change the station or track until you are stationary. Making changes to what you are listening to can distract you from what's going on in front of you. Changing the station while stopped will allow you to focus your attention on the road. Use caution when using voice activated systems. If you need to use your phone while driving, always utilize a hands-free device that allows you to communicate without having to control your phone with your hands, which can draw your attention from the road. Remember to keep your focus on driving when using hands-free devices. Never look at your phone to connect a hands-free device while you're driving. Turn off or stow away your cell phone. In order to ensure you are not visibly distracted, keep your cell phones, laptops and tablets safely stored within the vehicle as you drive. The best way to ensure you cannot be distracted by your cell phone while you're driving, is simply to switch it off. While your phone is off, phone calls will be sent to voicemail and text messages/social media posts will be saved until later. If the phone call is important, it can wait.
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Stow or secure all loose items before you set off. Finish dressing and grooming at home. Adjust your mirrors before you set out. Check your mirrors frequently. Pay close attention to drivers around you. Look for upcoming risks or obstacles. Avoid stressful or emotional conversations while driving. Make sure children and pets are secure. Keep snacks or toys where your passengers can access them. Ask passengers to respect that you’re driving. Pull over when you can’t avoid a distraction. Choose your music or radio station while stopped. Use caution when using voice activated systems. Turn off or stow away your cell phone.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Mac-Keyboard
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How to Clean a Mac Keyboard
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Before getting loose dirt and debris out of your Mac keyboard, shut your computer down and unplug the power source. This will help protect your computer from damage. Next, hold your laptop or keyboard upside-down over a wastebasket and gently shake it from side to side to dislodge any loose dirt. If you have a MacBook made in 2015 or later, you can use compressed air to blow out any additional stubborn dirt. Finish up by wiping your keyboard with a slightly damp cloth or cotton swab, then dry it with a clean microfiber cloth.
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Shut down your laptop. If your keyboard is part of your laptop, shut down the laptop before you begin cleaning. This will help prevent damage from occurring during the cleaning process. Unplug your keyboard from its power source. If the keyboard is part of your laptop, unplug the laptop entirely. Otherwise, disconnect the keyboard from your computer, laptop, or tablet. Shake excess dirt and crumbs into a trashcan or sink. First, carry your keyboard over to a trashcan and tip it upside down. Gently shake and move it side to side to dislodge any loose dirt or objects. Run your hand gently over the keys to loosen dirt that may be stuck. Spray compressed air into the keyboard of a MacBook (early 2015 or later). First, turn the keyboard at a 75 degree angle, so it is not quite vertical. Then, spray some compressed air left to right across the surface of the keyboard. Keep the straw of the air compression can about ½ inch away from the keys. After spraying the whole keyboard, rotate it 90 degrees to one side, and spray all keys again from left to right. Repeat this until you have sprayed the keyboard at all angles. Apple doesn't recommend the use of compressed air for all keyboards, as it may push particles further into the the keyboard. This step is specifically for MacBook laptops from early 2015 or later. Run a damp, soft, lint-free cloth over the surface of the keyboard. Get the cloth damp, and then ring out any excess moisture before touching your keyboard with it. Run the cloth gently over the surface of the keys to remove dust and dirt. Be sure that you don't get any excess moisture in between the keys in this process. Remove stains using a damp cotton swab or a damp lint-free cloth. For stains on your keys or keyboard, use a bit of pressure to scrub them off. Get the cotton swab or cloth slightly damp, and then apply it to the stain. You can rub in a circular motion, gently, until the stain is gone. If you have a white keyboard, take extra time to scrub the dark brown areas that tend to develop on the spacebar and where your fingers rest. Dry the keyboard with a dry, clean, soft, lint-free cloth. Consider using a microfiber cloth for this step. Run it over the keyboard to remove any remaining moisture or dust that may have collected. Keep your laptop off and keyboard unplugged. While disinfecting, be sure that your laptop is turned off and unplugged. If the keyboard is separate from the computer, be sure that it is disconnected from any power source. Buy a pack of disinfecting wipes. Some types to consider are Clorox or Lysol. You will want wipes that do not include any bleach, so be sure to check the labels before you make your purchase. Bleach can damage the finish on your keyboard. Squeeze the wipes into the sink to remove excess moisture. Sometimes you'll grab a disinfecting wipe that is very wet. Be sure that you squeeze it out to make it only slightly damp before using it on your keyboard. Scrub your keyboard gently with the disinfecting wipe. Place the wipe over one finger. Using that finger, gently massage each key and the area between the keys. Be careful not to push too hard or move your finger too fast so that you don't damage the keys. Dry the keyboard. This is an important step that is easily overlooked. Be sure that you use a clean, soft, lint-free cloth to remove any moisture from the keyboard after disinfecting it. Also, make sure that you do not hold the wipe on the keyboard for too long. After you wipe each key, discard the wipe and dry the keyboard gently. Wait 5-10 minutes before turning the keyboard or laptop back on. Waiting a bit will give the keyboard time to fully dry. Once it is completely dry, you can turn your keyboard back on and enjoy the cleanliness!
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Shut down your laptop. Unplug your keyboard from its power source. Shake excess dirt and crumbs into a trashcan or sink. Spray compressed air into the keyboard of a MacBook (early 2015 or later). Run a damp, soft, lint-free cloth over the surface of the keyboard. Remove stains using a damp cotton swab or a damp lint-free cloth. Dry the keyboard with a dry, clean, soft, lint-free cloth. Keep your laptop off and keyboard unplugged. Buy a pack of disinfecting wipes. Squeeze the wipes into the sink to remove excess moisture. Scrub your keyboard gently with the disinfecting wipe. Dry the keyboard. Wait 5-10 minutes before turning the keyboard or laptop back on.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Anchor-a-Trampoline
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How to Anchor a Trampoline
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To prevent your trampoline from flying off in the wind, you can anchor it with wind stakes or an anchor kit. Wind stakes are U-shaped pegs that you place over your trampoline's legs and hammer into the ground. You'll need at least one for each trampoline leg, but if you live in an area that tends to get strong winds and storms, use 2 or 3 per leg. Trampoline anchor kits come with 4 augers, which are corkscrew-like pegs, and 4 straps. These are more effective than regular pegs, but they're also a little more expensive. To use an anchor kit, all you need to do is screw the augers into the ground about 1 foot inwards from each trampoline leg, and fasten the straps between the augers and the frame of your trampoline.
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Pick up a set of U-shaped wind stakes. Like their name suggests, these types of stakes come pre-curved into a tight “U” shape. They're made of solid steel and are typically sold in sets of 4. Installing wind stakes is a cinch—all you have to do is place them over the legs of the trampoline and hammer them down. A pack of basic U-shaped wind stakes will usually only run you $15-20. Wind stakes are the easiest trampoline stakes to install, but they don't hold quite as well as auger-style anchor systems with straps. For this reason, it's a good idea to always inspect them before you start jumping. Position each stake over one leg of the trampoline. Center the stakes on the trampoline legs as best you can. They'll offer the most stability when they're set an equal distance from one another. The prongs of U-shaped wind stakes are spaced about 2–2.5 inches (5.1–6.4 cm) apart, which makes them just wide enough to fit over the legs of most average-sized trampolines. Tap the stakes into the ground with a hammer. It should only take a few taps to get them seated firmly. Once the stakes are in place, jiggle them to test how well they hold. If they feel loose, you may need to pull them up and drive them again. All styles of trampoline anchors, including U-shaped wind stakes, are designed to be used on soft surfaces, such as grass, dirt, or clay. If the ground beneath your trampoline is too hard to easily sink the stakes, spray it lightly with a garden hose to soften it up. Consider using 2 or even 3 sets of stakes if you live in an area where storms and strong winds are a frequent occurrence, or if your trampoline is prone to shifting on the patch of ground where it's situated. Remove U-shaped stakes with a screwdriver or similar tool. When it comes time to pry up your wind stakes, work the blade of the screwdriver into the space between the stake and the trampoline leg, then lift up on the handle. After moving the stakes 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm), you should be able to finish pulling them out by hand. Try using a hammer to wedge the screwdriver in if you're having trouble getting your stakes to budge. Replace your wind stakes if they become bent, broken, or rusted, as this could cause them to fail or even make them a safety hazard. Purchase a trampoline anchor kit. A standard trampoline anchor kit contains 4 steel augers and 4 adjustable nylon straps. After screwing the augers deep into the ground on each side of the trampoline, you'll attach and tighten the straps to hold it in place from below. Auger-style anchor kits are by far the most effective way to steady an ordinary backyard trampoline. They're strong enough to stand up to high-speed winds and rain, as well as shifting caused by repeated jumping. Trampoline anchor kits cost around $40-50 on average. Measure roughly 1–1.5 feet (0.30–0.46 m) inward from each leg. This is where you'll place the augers. Measure each of the legs individually using a tape measure, if possible. To guarantee that your measurements are consistent on each side, make sure the tape measure is centered on the leg. The exact placement and spacing of the augers may vary depending on the design of a particular trampoline anchor kit. Always follow the guidelines laid out in the manufacturer's instructions to be on the safe side. Screw the augers into the ground. Place the pointed tip of the auger against the ground and take a firm grip on the hooked upper end. Twist the auger in a clockwise direction until only the circular hook is left above ground level. Repeat this process on each side of the trampoline, then jostle the augers to confirm that they're secure. If you're having difficulty sinking the augers, wetting the ground under the trampoline will help minimize the amount of resistance you encounter. Eyeball each auger from ground level to make sure they're as vertical as possible. They'll be able to grip better when they're running straight up and down. Loop the included straps over the top of the trampoline frame. Pull the straps up and over the circular bar directly over the site of each auger, making sure both ends hang at the same length. Your kit should include one strap for each auger. Anchoring the trampoline at the top of the frame rather than the base makes for a much more secure hold. Some anchor kits may come with 2-piece straps that feature a separate ratchet strap that makes it easier to cinch the strap down tight. With these systems, the ratchet strap will usually attach directly to the auger. Guide the free end of the strap through the auger. Insert the strap into the hook at the top of the auger (the part you gripped while screwing it into the ground). After passing it through, line it up with the buckle dangling at the opposite end. From here, all that's left to do is to join the 2 ends. Make sure there are no twists or kinks in the strap before you pull it through the auger. Feed the end of the strap through the buckle. Thread the strap through the top of the buckle, then out the bottom. Pull down on the free end to take out the remaining slack. Again, do this on each side of the trampoline. If you're using a kit with 2-piece straps, feed the loose end of the frame strap through the buckle on the lower ratchet strap to close the loop. If you miss a buckle, there's a greater chance that your trampoline could be turned over with enough force. Tighten the straps. Work your way around the trampoline, checking to make sure there's no give in any of the straps. Yanking on one strap can sometimes cause another to come loose, so it make take a few trips around to get everything properly secured. If the free ends of the straps are long enough to reach the ground after tightening, wrap the extra length around the legs of the trampoline to get them out of the way. For anchor kits with ratchet straps, work the lever on each buckle up and down repeatedly until there's no slack remaining. Consider fastening each strap with a knot to prevent them from coming undone. Reverse the process to remove your new trampoline anchors. Lift up sharply on each buckle to loosen the straps, then finish undoing them by hand. Slide the frame straps clear of the outer edge of the trampoline, making sure they don't get caught on the springs or the frame itself. Finally, twist the augers counterclockwise while pulling up on them gently until they come free of the ground. You'll need to invest in a new set of augers if your current set happens to become damaged or lose their ability to grip properly.
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Pick up a set of U-shaped wind stakes. Position each stake over one leg of the trampoline. Tap the stakes into the ground with a hammer. Remove U-shaped stakes with a screwdriver or similar tool. Purchase a trampoline anchor kit. Measure roughly 1–1.5 feet (0.30–0.46 m) inward from each leg. Screw the augers into the ground. Loop the included straps over the top of the trampoline frame. Guide the free end of the strap through the auger. Feed the end of the strap through the buckle. Tighten the straps. Reverse the process to remove your new trampoline anchors.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Help-Victims-of-the-Woolsey-Fire-in-California
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How to Help Victims of the Woolsey Fire in California
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The best way to help victims of the Woolsey Fire in Southern California is to donate money. Go to aid organization websites, like Direct Relief, the Ventura County Community Foundation, and the Salvation Army Ventura Corps, to make a general donation to relief efforts. You can also make donations through Google and crowdfunding sites like GoFundMe. You can help animals by buying essential items from the Ventura County Humane Society's Amazon wish list, or buy from Baby2Baby's registry to help affected children.
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Give to local non-profit branches to get your money to those who need it most. Many aid organizations are working in Southern California to help victims of the Woolsey Fire find shelter and work towards long-term recovery. By donating to local organizations, or local branches or larger foundations, you can ensure your money is put to good use. Donate to the animal aid groups to help affected pets and livestock. Animals have also been affected by the fires in Southern California, with aid organizations sheltering pets and domesticated animals like cats, dogs, and horses. Your donations will help keep animals fed and sheltered until they make it back home. Consider donating to: The Humane Society of Ventura County at https://www.hsvc.org/donate. The Los Angeles County Animal Care Foundation at https://lacountyanimals.org/give/. Ventura County Animal Services at http://www.vcas.us/donate. Contribute to firefighters' groups to help fire departments who battled the flames. Cities and counties fund fire departments, but those reserves often aren't enough to get firefighters all the supplies and services they need. By donating to fire department foundations, you can help fund equipment, supplies, training, outreach, and more for the firefighters fighting the Woolsey Fire. Consider donating to: The Los Angeles County Fire Department Fire Foundation at http://www.lacfdf.org/donate/. The Los Angeles Fire Department Foundation at http://www.lacfdf.org/donate/. Give to crowdfunding campaigns to help affected individuals and families. Crowdfunding websites let victims, families, and communities create personal pages to tell their story and raise money for recovery. You can read through different pages and donate to campaigns that move you, or contribute to more general funds. The largest crowdfunding website is GoFundMe. They've compiled a list of all the verified Woolsey Fire aid campaigns, which you can explore at https://www.gofundme.com/cause/californiafires/story/280. Donate on Google to quickly make a contribution. You can easily make a donation on a site you use all the time, like Google. Google “help Woolsey Fire victims” and simply press the “Yes, Donate” button to make a contribution. Funds raised from Google's donation button go to the Center for Disaster Philanthropy, which distributes the money to nonprofits in the affected areas. Give to legitimate organizations to avoid charity scams. Before making your donation, do a little research to make sure the charity or non-profit has a proven track record of success, verified by outside news sources. You should also make sure that the organization you're giving to is a registered public 501(c)(3). You can also run the charity's name through Charity Navigator, which ranks charities based on their transparency, accountability, and financial health. The closer the charity's grade to 100, the better. Go to https://www.charitynavigator.org/ to check a charity on the site. Give non-perishable food items to the Salvation Army Ventura Corps. At this time, most non-profits are asking for monetary donations. If you want to contribute material goods, though, the Salvation Army Ventura Corps is still collecting non-perishable food for victims and first responders. Call them first to make sure they're still collecting, then ask where you should deliver your donation. You can call the Salvation Army at 1-800-SAL-ARMY. Ask to be connected with the Ventura branch. Non-perishable foods include dried or canned items, like beans, canned fruit, and canned vegetables, as well as nut butters like peanut butter and dry grains like pasta. Donate to the Humane Society of Ventura County through their Amazon wish list. Besides monetary donations, the Humane Society of Ventura County is also raising supplies for the animals they're sheltering. You can donate see what's needed and make donations through their Amazon wish list at https://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/2LHNG8JV4F1V0. Help affected children by giving items through Baby2Baby. This organization distributes essential items to low-income children and other kids in need, and they're working to help children and families affected by the Woolsey Fire as well. You can view their donation registry and choose from a number of different items to donate, including diapers, wipes, blankets, hygiene products, and more. Check news sites and social media to see what other items are needed. As victims continue to recover and first responders keep working, organizations might start asking for other essential items. You can keep up to date on what's needed by following different aid organization on social media and in the news. You can also call them to get the most current information. Host displaced families and relief workers through the Airbnb Evacuee Program. Also called Open Homes, this Airbnb program allows local residents to host displaced victims and deployed relief workers. If you're in the area and willing to open your home, make an Airbnb account and register it with the program. Displaced victims of the fire can then request to stay in your home. Sign up to be a Red Cross volunteer. Registering as a volunteer now might not let you help with Woolsey Fire relief, since the Red Cross and other organizations require training that takes some time. Don't let that discourage you, though. If you're passionate about making a difference in-person, signing up now means your help might be used in a disaster in the future. To register as a volunteer for the Red Cross, go to https://www.redcross.org/volunteer/volunteer-opportunities/disaster-volunteer.html. As a Red Cross volunteer, your work can range from making phone calls and registering clients to supporting shelters and raising supplies. Go to fundraising events backing charities and relief organizations. Local businesses and organizations around the affected area are starting to plan fundraising events, raising money to help with long-term relief efforts. These can range from donating portions of proceeds from shops or restaurants to an aid organization to fundraising events planned by different businesses. Look online and check local news sources to see what events or fundraising efforts are being made and how you can get involved. For example, you can attend fundraising concerts in Thousand Oaks, California, a fundraising event in Encinitas, or head to local businesses who are donating proceeds to relief organizations.
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Give to local non-profit branches to get your money to those who need it most. Donate to the animal aid groups to help affected pets and livestock. Contribute to firefighters' groups to help fire departments who battled the flames. Give to crowdfunding campaigns to help affected individuals and families. Donate on Google to quickly make a contribution. Give to legitimate organizations to avoid charity scams. Give non-perishable food items to the Salvation Army Ventura Corps. Donate to the Humane Society of Ventura County through their Amazon wish list. Help affected children by giving items through Baby2Baby. Check news sites and social media to see what other items are needed. Host displaced families and relief workers through the Airbnb Evacuee Program. Sign up to be a Red Cross volunteer. Go to fundraising events backing charities and relief organizations.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Tie-a-Wrap-Dress
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How to Tie a Wrap Dress
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To tie a wrap dress, first, put the dress on as you would a jacket and wrap the left-hand side across your chest. Once you're happy with how the left side sits, feed the string through the small hole in the seam on the right-hand side of the dress. Pull the string through until the dress is tight but comfortable, then pull the left side of the dress over the right side. After the left-hand panel covers most of your body, pull the string around your back and tie it tightly in a bow. Alternatively, secure your dress by pinning the left-hand panel to the inside seam of the right-hand part of your dress with a safety pin. Finish by wrapping the right-hand side of your dress over the left-hand panel and fixing it in place with a belt or another safety pin.
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Slip into the dress like you would if it were a jacket. Raise your right arm and insert it into the right arm hole of the dress. Then, insert your left arm into the left arm hole of the jacket. It is just like shrugging on a light cardigan. The two front panels will hang at your sides. Wrap the left side of the dress across your body. Pull it snug against your body so it covers most of your chest. Adjust the way it sits on you by tugging gently at the fabric if you aren't happy with it. Open the dress and locate the hole in the seam on the right side. Use your right hand to hold the right side of the dress open and look for a small hole in the seam. This is where you feed the longer string through. Make sure that your dress has a longer string on the left hand side and a shorter string on the right hand side. The hole that you feed the string through is commonly found about 15 cm (5.9 in) below the armpit. Feed the longer string on the left side through the hole on the right. Insert the tip of the longer string (attached to the left panel of the dress) in the hole, and pull it through with your other hand. This will cause the dress to cinch up at the waistline. Pull it until it's tight, but still comfortable. Pull the left side of the dress over to the right side of your body. Use your left hand to bring the left half of the dress across your body, covering most of the right half of the dress. Pull up gently on the neckline if you feel like the dress is sitting too low on your chest. Wrap the longer string around your back and tie it to secure it. Bring the string you pulled through the hole all the way around your back until it meets the other string. Tie the longer string with the shorter string attached to the right half of the dress in a basic, firm bow. Make sure that your knot is tight enough, as this is what keeps the dress from coming undone! Double-knotting may be a good idea here. Wrap the left half of the dress across your chest. Wrap the dress snugly across your body toward the right side. Make sure that the dress is giving you the amount of coverage that you want by adjusting the neckline. Wrap dresses can be great if you have a larger bust, because the sharp neckline can help give the illusion of a smaller bust. Pin the left half of the dress to the inside seam on the right side. Use a medium-sized safety pin to attach the left side of the dress to the inner seam under your right armpit. Insert the pin vertically through both pieces of fabric from the inside. The pin will sit right on the seam. This stops the dress from falling down. Insert your pin higher up on the seam (closer to your armpit, and just below your bustline) to accentuate the smallest part of your waist. Wrap the right half of the dress over the left half. You can now cover the left side of the dress with the right side. Pull the right half of the dress across your chest so the seam sits on the side of your midsection. Use another safety pin or a belt to secure the dress. Once the dress is pulled tight enough (but is still comfortable!), secure the right side of the dress with a safety pin. Place the pin parallel with your belly button. Alternatively, some dresses have an attached sash that you can wrap around your waist and tie in a knot. Your wrap dress may have little loops on the sides that you can run a belt or tie through. If this is not the case, find a belt that styles well with your dress. Choose accessories in muted tones to complement patterns. Balance a wrap dress that comes in a beautiful bright color or print with accessories that are more neutral. Nude, gray, and shades of brown often work best. Pair your dress with heels for a more formal look. To dress up your wrap dress, wear strappy or chunky open-toed heels. This can also help to create the illusion of longer legs. Black, brown, or nude heels usually pair well with colored or patterned dresses. Wear flats or sneakers with your dress for a more casual vibe. Alternatively, if you are dressing for a more casual occasion, opt for ballet-style flats or sneakers. Clean, white sneakers look great with a brightly-colored wrap dress. Add a light jacket or cardigan if the weather is cool. If it's too chilly to wear your wrap dress by itself, pair it with a light jacket or cardigan to make sure you stay warm. Pick out a jacket that complements the color of your wrap dress. For example, a blue jean jacket would look nice with a yellow wrap dress. Pick no more than 2 jewelry pieces to add to the look. Choose accessories that are not going to pull too much attention away from your dress — especially if your dress is patterned. Shorter necklaces pair well with the typical wrap dress plunge neckline, and simple rings or bracelets can complement necklaces nicely. For example, you probably don't need to wear earrings, a necklace, and a ring for jewelry. Pick 2 out of the 3, and make sure your choices are somewhat matching.
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Slip into the dress like you would if it were a jacket. Wrap the left side of the dress across your body. Open the dress and locate the hole in the seam on the right side. Feed the longer string on the left side through the hole on the right. Pull the left side of the dress over to the right side of your body. Wrap the longer string around your back and tie it to secure it. Wrap the left half of the dress across your chest. Pin the left half of the dress to the inside seam on the right side. Wrap the right half of the dress over the left half. Use another safety pin or a belt to secure the dress. Choose accessories in muted tones to complement patterns. Pair your dress with heels for a more formal look. Wear flats or sneakers with your dress for a more casual vibe. Add a light jacket or cardigan if the weather is cool. Pick no more than 2 jewelry pieces to add to the look.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-an-Argument
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How to Stop an Argument
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To stop an argument with someone, try to focus on resolving the underlying issue rather than trying to score points, since this will help you be objective. While you're trying to solve the problem, make a point of acknowledging the other person's feelings, which will show them that you are listening to their perspective. You can also try making a casual joke about yourself to ease the tension. However, if the argument gets too heated, don't be afraid to walk away to let yourself calm down. For example, say something like, “I don't want my temper to get the better of me so I'm going to walk away for now.”
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Focus on resolving the core issue underlying the argument. When you're in an argument with a partner or old friend, it can be easy to bring up old baggage. If you're arguing with an acquaintance or work associate, you might be tempted to only deal with surface-level problems. Instead of taking either of these approaches, try to mutually resolve the core problem without bringing up past incidents or superficial disagreements. For example, say that your partner is angry with you for hanging out with friends over the weekend. While you need to respond to that complaint, the deeper underlying issue may be that your partner doesn't feel appreciated in the relationship. If you're unsure of what the underlying issue is, just ask: “What's the main problem that you'd like for us to resolve here?” Explain that you’re willing to compromise on the issue at hand. People often get into arguments when 1 or both of the individuals feel that the other is taking an inflexible or unfair position. In many cases, showing that you're willing to compromise will be enough to stop the argument then and there. For example, if you're arguing with a roommate over whose turn it is to wash dishes, say something like, “I'll wash them this time, but in the future, I'd appreciate it if you and your boyfriend washed the dishes after making a huge meal together.” Or, if a work colleague accuses you of hogging the spotlight on a project, say, “You may be right about that. I like to take pride in my work, but I'll take some time to think about what you've said.” Acknowledge the validity of the other person’s feelings. Even if you and the person you're arguing with disagree about an important topic, you can still show that you respect their feelings and emotions. This shows that you're interested in seeing things from the other person's perspective and aren't trying to intentionally hurt them. In many cases, this will be enough to stop the argument, or at least to de-escalate rising anger. Say something like, “Your feelings are valid and you have every right to feel the way that you do. I hope I haven't done anything to make you feel otherwise.” Apologize if you’ve done something to hurt the other person. If you're clearly in the wrong, there's nothing to be gained by sticking to your guns and dragging an argument out. Instead, make a clear, direct apology for what you did to upset the person. If you don't know what you've done to upset someone, ask them. For example, if you made a friend angry by criticizing them in front of a mutual acquaintance, say something like, “I'm sorry, I should've have acted that way. It seemed funny in the moment but now I realize I was wrong and I apologize.” Be honest about your own feelings and emotions. Emotional honesty can help defuse an argument and turn it into a productive conversation. By exposing your feelings to the person you're arguing with, you'll allow them to understand where you're coming from. Try expressing yourself using statements beginning with “I feel like…” or reference a specific emotion that's motivating you to argue. For example, say something like, “I'm afraid that the fact that you didn't kiss me goodnight last night may mean that you're becoming less attracted to me. That's why I've been acting angry all day.” Make a joke to set you and the person you’re arguing with at ease. If you're normally on good terms with the person you're arguing with, defuse the argument by dropping a joke into the conversation. This will signal that you're not deeply angry and are willing to stop the argument. But, avoid making jokes that are mean-spirited, sarcastic, or at the other person's expense. This kind of humor will only make the argument worse. For example, say something like, “If we don't watch it, we'll start to sound like the old couple that we saw arguing on the boardwalk!” Walk away from the argument to cool your temper. If you're at your wit's end regarding how to resolve the argument, physically walk away from the confrontation. Say to the person, "I'm not in the mood for this," and leave the room. Or, try saying, "I don't want my temper to get the better of me so I'm going to walk away now." Give the person space for a few hours while you both cool down. Avoid slamming doors or showing other signs of anger as you leave. Go to sleep and reevaluate your feelings in the morning. If you're arguing at your home, go into your bedroom and lay down to get some rest. Go to sleep if you can. Getting a night's rest will help you have a better perspective on the argument in the morning and will help the person who you're fighting with calm down and reconsider their feelings as well. If you're arguing with a partner or spouse and the 2 of you typically share a bed, 1 of you may need to sleep on the sofa or in a guest room so that the argument doesn't start back up in the middle of the night. Listen to calming music until your bad mood fades away. Listening to soothing instrumental music is a great way to chill yourself out. A calm song can help put you into a different state of mind and will give you time to reflect on any issues underlying the argument. Calm yourself down by listening to music for at least 15–20 minutes before you return to speak with the person were arguing with. Listen to music in a different room than the person you argued with is in so you won't be tempted to reengage in the fight. Go get ice cream or see a movie to distract you both from the argument. If you and the person you're arguing with are willing to suspend the argument and continue spending time together, visit a local ice cream parlor, movie theater, bowling alley, or coffee shop. Spending time together having fun or eating and drinking without arguing may show how unnecessary the argument was to begin with. An activity—like eating ice cream or seeing a movie—that gets you both out of the house and into public space can help make the argument seem small and unimportant. Keep your voice at a normal speaking level. It may seem like obvious advice, but a great way to prevent arguments from happening is to avoid raising your voice. If you raise your voice, the person you're speaking to will take it as a sign of hostility or aggression. If you're inclined to shout at someone, try whispering instead. You'll come across as calm and the conversation won't become an argument. If you raise the volume of your voice, the other person will likely raise their voice as well and turn things into a shouting match. Calm the situation down if you sense that things are escalating. What starts out as a relatively civil conversation can, in a matter of minutes, turn into an angry argument. Try to stop the conversation from escalating before it blows up into a large fight. So, if the person you're arguing with starts raising their voice, making over-exaggerated claims, or saying things you know they'll regret later, take steps to calm them down. Say something like, “I'm not trying to upset you and would rather this didn't become an argument. Let's take a 5 minute break and try talking again then.” Let the other person finish speaking before you express your thoughts. In a tense conversation, it can be tempting to interrupt the other speaker to disagree with them or inform them of your opinion. However, if the 2 of you start to mutually interrupt one another, a level-headed conversation can quickly become an argument. If the other person interrupts you, say something like, “I do care about what you think and I value your opinion, but please don't interrupt me while I'm speaking.” Relate statements to yourself rather than the other person. In other words, try making statements that begin with “I” and not with “you.” By phrasing your sentences this way, you'll show that you're trying to communicate your thoughts to the other person and they won't feel as though they're being attacked or having words put in their mouth. You'll be able to have a calm conversation rather than an argument. So, avoid saying, “You never listen and you don't respect my opinion about anything!” Instead, try something like, “I often feel like I'm not being heard by you or as if my opinion isn't very highly valued.”
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Focus on resolving the core issue underlying the argument. Explain that you’re willing to compromise on the issue at hand. Acknowledge the validity of the other person’s feelings. Apologize if you’ve done something to hurt the other person. Be honest about your own feelings and emotions. Make a joke to set you and the person you’re arguing with at ease. Walk away from the argument to cool your temper. Go to sleep and reevaluate your feelings in the morning. Listen to calming music until your bad mood fades away. Go get ice cream or see a movie to distract you both from the argument. Keep your voice at a normal speaking level. Calm the situation down if you sense that things are escalating. Let the other person finish speaking before you express your thoughts. Relate statements to yourself rather than the other person.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Peel-an-Orange
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How to Peel an Orange
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To peel an orange with your hands, choose an orange that's bright, firm, and heavy. Puncture the skin near the top of the orange with your thumbnail and work your thumb under the peel. Gently tear off as big a section of skin as you can and continue until it's all off. To peel with a knife, insert the pointed tip into the skin at the top of the orange and slice off the peel by rotating the orange around the knife. To peel with a spoon, make a 1 inch cut on the side of the orange, slicing through the skin but not the fruit. Insert a spoon and work off the peel.
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Select a good orange. The ripeness of your chosen orange will play a major part in how easy it is to peel. When selecting the perfect orange for peeling, look for one with a bright orange color, which is pretty firm and heavy for its size. Try to avoid older fruit with wrinkled or bruised skin, as it will be harder to peel and will not taste as good. Oranges which are still slightly green or light orange in color may be slightly unripe and will be harder to peel as the skin will stick tightly to the fruit. Roll the orange. This step is completely optional, but some people claim that rolling the orange before peeling helps to loosen the skin, while also making the fruit extra juicy! To roll the orange, rest it on a flat surface and place an open palmed hand on top. Apply a light pressure and roll the orange for 10-15 seconds. Just don't press too hard - you don't want to squish your orange! Holding the orange in one hand, puncture the skin with your thumbnail. Try to make the puncture near the top or bottom of the orange, rather than around the sides. This is because the skin along the sides of the orange is thinner and adheres more tightly to the fruit. The looser and thicker skin at the top of the orange will come away more easily and is less prone to breaking. Some people advocate using your four fingernails to make the initial puncture, but this is more awkward and gets too much skin under your fingernails! Letting the nail of your thumb grow a little longer than the rest of your fingernails may also help with your orange peeling. Work your thumb under the peel. Work the nail of your thumb under the orange skin until you have a good grip on it. Try not to puncture the fruit, as the juice will escape and make your hand sticky! Hold the orange over a plate in case you do happen to puncture the skin. This will make cleanup easier after you are finished peeling. Alternatively, a piece of paper towel will do the trick. Gently tear off a section of skin. The bigger the section you tear off, the quicker all the skin will be removed. You can work from top to bottom or around the sides. It's up to you. Tear off another section, beginning at the edge of the orange peel. It should be much easier now that you have already taken some of the peel off. Once you become really skilled at orange peeling, you may be able to peel an orange in one peel. This is achieved by tearing the skin off in a circular motion around the circumference of the orange, until you're left with the fruit in one hand and the twisted, snakelike peel in the other! Continue until all of the peel has been removed. Throw away or compost the scraps. Enjoy your orange! Grab a sharp knife. It doesn't need to be a very big knife, just as long as it has a pointed tip. Insert the pointed tip of the knife into the skin at the top of the orange. Make a slice across the top of the orange to get started, then continue by rotating the orange in your hand while you use the knife to cut off the peel in one continuous motion. Continue peeling the orange in a circular motion. The knife should be facing towards you while you peel in a steady controlled manner, with a slight sawing motion. The orange skin should come off in one continuous, spiraled piece, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) wide. Don't worry if a little of the fruit comes away with peel, you'll get better with practice. Alternatively, you can use the knife to make a vertical slice in the orange skin. Once you have done this, it will be easy to peel the orange with your fingers. Just make sure you don't slice too deeply, or you will cut the fruit and get orange juice everywhere! Roll the orange. Using an open palm, roll the orange on a flat surface for about ten seconds to help loosen the skin. Make a cut. Use a sharp knife to make a 1 to 1 ⁄ 2 inch (2.5 to 3.8 cm) vertical cut along the side of the orange. Try to cut all the way through the skin, but avoid cutting the fruit. Insert the spoon. Insert a dessert spoon under the skin of the orange, where you made the opening with a knife. Work the spoon around the fruit to loosen and tear off the skin.
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Select a good orange. Roll the orange. Holding the orange in one hand, puncture the skin with your thumbnail. Work your thumb under the peel. Gently tear off a section of skin. Tear off another section, beginning at the edge of the orange peel. Continue until all of the peel has been removed. Throw away or compost the scraps. Enjoy your orange! Grab a sharp knife. Insert the pointed tip of the knife into the skin at the top of the orange. Continue peeling the orange in a circular motion. Alternatively, you can use the knife to make a vertical slice in the orange skin. Roll the orange. Make a cut. Insert the spoon.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Husk-Corn
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How to Husk Corn
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To husk corn by hand, pull away the outer leaves until there is only one layer of leaves remaining on the ear. Then, pull back the last layer of leaves to expose the tip of the corn, and gather them all in one hand to pull them to the bottom of the ear. Once you can see the kernels, gather all of the silky tassel remaining on the corn, and pull them down the corn in one movement. Remove the leaves and the tassels by firmly grasping them at the bottom of the ear and breaking them away from the cob.
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Set up an easy-to-clean workspace. Expect shucking corn to get a little messy. At the very least, have a bag handy to throw away the husk's leaves and silken strands as you work. To make life even easier, line a trashcan or similar container with a bag so you can work over that, or even inside of it. Alternatively, you can also line your kitchen counter with paper or other compostable material if you want to compost the leaves and silk. This way you can easily ball up the whole bundle when you're done. Start with the outer leaves. Give the husk a quick look-over and find whichever leaf seems to be the outermost. Strip that off and continue peeling away the outer leaves as you work your way inward. Stop once the ear seems to be covered by only one layer of remaining leaves. The last layer should be a little translucent, so once you can see the kernels through the leaves, you should be there. Uncover the ear’s tip. Pull the tops of the remaining leaves away from the ear's top. Stop peeling once you've exposed three or four rows of kernels. However, as you peel the leaves back, remember: The aim is to rip off all the leaves at once, in one move. So don't peel the tops away from the ear in a way that would make it difficult to hold them all in one hand. Gather the tops and tassel in one hand. The “tassel” is the bunched-up ends of all the silken strands inside. Gather this as well as the tops of the inner leaves in your dominant hand. Use your other hand to clutch the ear by its bottom. If you're unable to grab them all in one hand, don't worry. As long as you have most of the leaves and tassel in hand, the other leaf or leaves may still come off with them. Pull them down in one move. Hold the ear vertically with its tip at the top. Then, with the leaves' tops and the silk tassel in one hand, give them a hard yank down the length of the ear to where your other hand is. This should strip the whole ear, but if you weren't able to get all the leaves' tops in one hand, just repeat with any leaf that didn't come off with the others. Your corn should now resemble a rocketship, with the ear as the rocket pointing in one direction, and the leaves and silk as its flames pointing the opposite way. Remove the leaves. Reorient your grip on the ear so you're holding it by its exposed kernels. Gather the stripped leaves and silk in your dominant hand. Give them another hard yank, along with a twisting motion to easily rip them free of the ear's bottom. Or, if you find it easier to rip the leaves off one by one, go ahead and do that. Peel off any remaining silk. Expect most of the silk to have been stripped away with their tassel. At the same time, don't count on this to remove all of them. Inspect the ear for any stragglers and peel them off one by one. Microwave the whole thing. Put your corn (husk and all) inside your microwave. Set the power to “high” and cook for two minutes. When the timer ends, turn the ear of corn over and repeat. The kernels inside should be steaming through the husk by the end. If they aren't, keep cooking for shorter intervals until the kernels are sufficiently heated. Cut off the ear’s bottom. Remember: the ear should be pretty hot at this point, so use a pot holder, kitchen towel, or other safe means to remove it from the microwave. Set it on a cutting board. Slice off the bottom of the ear. You want about a ¼- to a ½-inch (0.6 to 1.2 cm) of the ear's kernels exposed after slicing off the bottom. If slicing the bottom off didn't accomplish that on its own, use a knife to pry the leaves loose along your cut. Squeeze the ear out of its husk. Hold the ear over the cutting board (or, if you're worried about it rolling off that, use a large bowl instead). Grip it by its top. Start squeezing the ear inside down along the husk so that it comes out of the opened bottom. The corn's silk should stay inside the husk as the ear itself comes out, but give the kernels a check anyway and peel away any strands that might have stuck. Check inside. Peel the tops of the leaves away from the ear's tip. Stop once you can see the first couple rows of kernels. If they look nice and plump, you're good to go. However, with this method, bear in mind that: Once you expose the kernels, their sugars will start turning to starch much sooner, which means they'll lose their freshness that much quicker. For that very reason, this practice is frowned upon in farmers' market, since any ears that you discard can't be re-husked to retain freshness. Look for evidence of worms. Inspect the husk's leaves. Pay particular attention towards the ear's top. Check for any holes that have been created by worms. Holes may be tiny and hard to spot, but the leaves should have begun turning brown around them, which makes spotting them easier. Judge its freshness by sight. Look over both the husk's outer leaves and the silken tassel poking out from its tip. Favor husks with bright green leaves. Go for tassels that are still brownish in color, as opposed to black. The leaves' and tassel's coloring both indicate how moist the corn is. The more moisture it has, the fresher it is. Judge by feel, too. If you're not sure about coloring, feel each ear in your hand. Avoid husks with leaves that feel loose. Favor tassels that still feel sticky, which indicates moisture. Depending on how thick the husk is, you may also be able to feel the shape of the kernels through the leaves. If you can, also feel for any gaps that may indicate missing or shrivelled kernels.
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Set up an easy-to-clean workspace. Start with the outer leaves. Uncover the ear’s tip. Gather the tops and tassel in one hand. Pull them down in one move. Remove the leaves. Peel off any remaining silk. Microwave the whole thing. Cut off the ear’s bottom. Squeeze the ear out of its husk. Check inside. Look for evidence of worms. Judge its freshness by sight. Judge by feel, too.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Recognize-Leptospirosis-Symptoms
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How to Recognize Leptospirosis Symptoms
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To recognize leptospirosis symptoms, look for high fever, chills, achiness, nausea, light sensitivity, and intense headaches. Since the infection can lead to jaundice, keep an eye out for any changes in the color of your skin. You should also watch out for pain in your right upper abdominal area or a dark red to purple rash on your lower body or around your mouth. If you notice any of these signs, go to a doctor so they can start treatment, such as antibiotics, as soon as possible before the infection develops into something more serious.
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Don’t mistake symptoms for flu. Symptoms of leptospirosis can vary and can look like symptoms associated with other infections or illnesses. If you develop flu-like symptoms suddenly, don't assume it is flu if there is the possibility of exposure. Leptospirosis generally presents with flu-like symptoms including fever, myalgia, rigor, and headache. Take your temperature. A high fever and chills can indicate infection because your body is trying to fight off the infection. If you feel excessively warm suddenly, or have chills, take your temperature and call your doctor. Be alert to eye pain or headache. Some people experience symptoms of light sensitivity and headache with this kind of infection. If you develop a painful reaction to light or intense headaches along with other symptoms, get medical attention. Take note of any achiness. Muscle aches are a common symptom of infection too. Because muscle aches are symptoms of fever or flu as well as leptospirosis, review your recent activities before deciding these are merely flu symptoms. Take seriously any feelings of queasiness. You may feel nausea with or without vomiting or diarrhea. Let your doctor know about any sudden stomach problems. Pay attention to changes in your coloring. Jaundice may appear later as the infection progresses, and can indicate serious liver problems. Jaundice will typically appear 4-5 days after exposure, so review activities during that time period to assess exposure risks. Watch for abdominal pain. Pain in the right upper abdominal area is a symptom of second phase infection. Often leptospirosis can develop into chronic renal disease. If you develop pain in this area, see a doctor right away. Beware of any signs of rash. Sudden rash that is dark red to purple in color is symptomatic of infection. A rash that is concentrated on the lower body or palette of the mouth is specifically associated with this kind of infection. Determine your risk of exposure. There are certain environments that increase your chance of exposure to leptospirosis. Factors like climate and land use can make conditions more favorable to the bacteria that cause this infection, so knowing where and when to be alert to those conditions can reduce your chance of infection. The bacteria that cause leptospirosis are found in temperate or tropical zones. Water is one of the most common places of contamination and infection. Urine from infected animals is also a common source. Both domestic and wild animals can be infected. These include, but are not limited to, cattle, pigs, horses, dogs and rats. Be aware of activities that put you at risk. Certain hobbies and professions carry a higher risk of exposure to infection. Know which environments can lead to exposure. Athletes who participate in outdoor sports like kayaking and rafting have an increased risk of exposure. Campers who swim or wade in contaminated water can be infected. Drinking water from contaminated streams or rivers while hiking or camping can be a source of infection. People who work in professions or industries involving animals have higher risks for infection. Veterinarians, dairy farmers, as well as workers in the fishing industry and slaughterhouse facilities all face the possibility of infection. There has also been an increase in infection rates among urban children in recent years. Don’t rely on symptoms alone. If you have been exposed, you may or may not exhibit symptoms of infection, so talk to your doctor about activities that may have put you at risk for infection. Depending on your history and what symptoms you do have, your doctor will decide which tests to do and if treatment should be started. Symptoms are typically nonspecific so tests are needed to confirm infection. Signs of infection are similar to symptoms of other illnesses. If there's reason to suspect you have been exposed and you develop flu-like symptoms, see your doctor. Some people are asymptomatic and may not be affected by the infection. You should see your doctor regardless of how you are feeling if you think you have been exposed. Contact your doctor if you relapse. For many people, one treatment will be enough to cure them of the infection. Some people may seem to get better without having sought treatment at all initially. However, the leptospirosis infection may not actually have been cured. A more serious form of infection may occur after a seeming recovery, usually about a week after the first range of symptoms have cleared up. For people with a more severe form of infection, symptoms occur in 2 stages. The first stage of the initial illness will be the milder form, with flu-like symptoms. The second stage will typically be more severe and last longer than the first stage. Be alert to signs of second stage infection. The second stage of leptospirosis infection, called Weil's disease, is much more severe and can have long term health impacts, or even lead to death. This second stage can develop after the infection seems to be gone. The second stage can also overlap with the first stage of infection. At this stage, bacterial infection can cause serious damage to the kidneys or liver, even leading to chronic kidney disease or liver failure with jaundice. The bacteria can invade the lungs, posing a serious threat to respiratory health. Severe pulmonary disease, characterized as pulmonary hemorrhage, is a serious complication of leptospirosis. ARDS or acute respiratory distress syndrome is also a complication of leptospirosis. Signs of lung infection are having a persistent cough, shortness of breath, and coughing up blood due to bleeding in the lungs. Infection can also spread to the heart, causing an enlarged heart, myocarditis, or cardiac arrhythmia. Other complications may include rhabdomyolysis and uveitis. Take your overall health into consideration. Many people can recover spontaneously, although it usually will take longer to recover without treatment. You should take into consideration any pre-existing conditions that can increase possible damage to your long term health. Pregnant women with leptospirosis infection have a higher infant mortality rate. Unborn babies can become infected in utero. Heart conditions, respiratory problems, or liver or kidney damage may be worsened if the infection develops into the second stage. Start treatment quickly. For most people, the symptoms of leptospirosis will be mild, and the recovery period fairly short. However, should your infection develop into the second stage, symptoms could have major health impacts or even be life-threatening. Treatment can protect you from the more severe stage of infection. With treatment, infection and symptoms may last for a few days or for 3 weeks or longer. Without treatment recovery may take several months. Some people may be completely recovered after the initial infection, but some may not. Your doctor should monitor you during recovery, and for any return of infection symptoms. Contact your doctor if symptoms return. You may need to extend or change your course of antibiotic treatment if the infection is not responding to the medication. Take prescribed antibiotics as directed. Antibiotics like doxycycline or azithromycin may be prescribed for milder, first phase infections. Doxycycline should not be used in the pregnant patient, this can cause liver problems and affect the development of the teeth in the unborn infant. Discuss possible hospital care with your doctor. For severe cases of infection and second phase infection, treatment may include hospital care for intravenous antibiotics (penicillin, doxycycline, ceftriaxone, and cefotaxime) and rehydration treatments as well as antibiotics in pill or liquid forms. Be alert to possible infection. Symptoms in pets can be nonspecific and vary greatly, and some pets won't exhibit symptoms at all. If your pet has been exposed to contaminated areas or other animals infected with leptospirosis, consider having it checked even if there are no symptoms. Be aware of your pet’s level of risk. Younger animals are more vulnerable to serious long term damage to organs or even death. Dogs seem to be more susceptible to becoming infected than other household pets. Talk to a veterinarian. If you suspect your pet may have been exposed and you see any of the following symptoms, you should contact a veterinarian immediately. Fever. Vomiting. Abdominal pain. Diarrhea. Refusal to eat. Severe weakness and depression. Stiffness. Severe muscle weakness. Seek treatment if your pet is infected. Getting your pet on antibiotics in the early stages of the infection is very important. Antibiotics will help your pet recover more quickly, lessen any damage to internal organs, and shorten the length of time during which you are at risk for infection. Know what to expect. Because of the possibility of permanent damage to your pet's health, as well as your risk of becoming infected through contact with your pet, ask your veterinarian for advice and information about what to do while the infection persists. Typically, the infection will be active for between 5 to 14 days. For some animals however, the infection can last for just a few days or for as long as several months. While your pet is infected, there is a risk of the infection spreading to you and anyone else caring for the pet. With normal daily activities like grooming, petting, walking and playing the risk for transmission is typically low. There is a risk for becoming infected through direct or indirect contact with urine, blood, or tissues. Contact a veterinarian if your pet is not making progress. Also contact the veterinarian if your pet is experiencing problems due to symptoms from infection. Your pet may need dialysis and hydration therapy to recover.
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Don’t mistake symptoms for flu. Take your temperature. Be alert to eye pain or headache. Take note of any achiness. Take seriously any feelings of queasiness. Pay attention to changes in your coloring. Watch for abdominal pain. Beware of any signs of rash. Determine your risk of exposure. Be aware of activities that put you at risk. Don’t rely on symptoms alone. Contact your doctor if you relapse. Be alert to signs of second stage infection. Take your overall health into consideration. Start treatment quickly. Contact your doctor if symptoms return. Take prescribed antibiotics as directed. Discuss possible hospital care with your doctor. Be alert to possible infection. Be aware of your pet’s level of risk. Talk to a veterinarian. Seek treatment if your pet is infected. Know what to expect. Contact a veterinarian if your pet is not making progress.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Cattails
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How to Get Rid of Cattails
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If untreated, cattails can easily invade your pond, but you can get rid of them with a little effort. Use a shovel to dig up the root systems of the cattails. For larger amounts, rent a backhoe. Alternatively, you can spray the cattails with an herbicide containing glyphosate, imazamox, imazapyra or diquat. If you have a large amount of cattails to remove, divide your pond into sections and wait 10 to 14 days between applications. This will help keep the dissolved oxygen levels stable. After 10 days, cut the dead cattails out with a weed whacker or sharp blade and remove them from your pond.
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Dig up the cattails. To get rid of cattails, you need to completely remove the root system. Cattails propagate through rhizomes. The rhizomes send out additional roots horizontally, quickly resulting in new plants. Manual removal is most effective if you dig out the rhizomes when cattails are first establishing themselves in a pond. Dig down below the root system to remove the cattails. Dispose of the cattails. Consider using a backhoe for manual removal if you need to remove a larger amount of cattail stands. Choose a chemical removal method. Look for an herbicide approved for aquatic use that includes one of the following active ingredients: glyphosate, imazamox, imazapyra or diquat. These chemicals are effective on cattails. Calculate the area and volume of your pond. These measurements are needed for you to determine how much herbicide you should use to kill your cattails. Get the measurements for your pond. If a contractor put in the pond, you should be able to get the measurements from the contractor's office. Your local survey control service office may also have measurements available or aerial photos you can use to determine your pond's measurements. If not, get a survey of the pond or measure it yourself. Methods you can employ yourself without special equipment include chaining and pacing. Chaining involves putting a stake at either end of a measuring tape or length of wood, chain, or rope of known length. Place the stakes in the ground, remove them, and stick them back in the ground, this time, with the first stake in the same place where the second stake left a depression. Continue moving the measuring tape and stakes around the perimeter of the pond. Count the number of times you need to move the stake, and multiply this number by the length of the measuring tape to get the perimeter's measurement. Pacing functions in the same way, but the known length is your normal stride. Calculate area. Determine the shape of your pond, whether it's roughly square, circular or triangular, and use the appropriate formula to solve for area. Calculate volume. The volume of a pond is the area multiplied by the average depth of the pond. Take depth measurements by slowly dropping a weighted line into the water at various locations in the pond. Use the depth measurements you've obtained to calculate an average depth for the pond. The more measurements you take, the more accurate your average depth will be. Apply the herbicide to the cattails. It is best to use herbicides in the spring when growth first starts. The cattail plants are smaller at this time, which makes application easier. Read the directions on the herbicide container. Different formulas will have different water use restrictions. You need to familiarize yourself with these restrictions so you know when you can use the pond again for recreation or livestock use. The directions will also indicate how much herbicide to use based on the area and volume of your pond. Divide the pond into sections if you have a large amount of cattails to remove. Once the herbicide takes effect, the decomposition of the dead cattails can deplete the dissolved oxygen levels in the pond, killing fish. Killing fewer cattails at once will reduce the amount of decomposing vegetation in the pond. Use a pond or yard sprayer to distribute the chemical onto the cattails. Be careful to limit overspray as much as possible. Wait 10 to 14 days before spraying the next section if you chose to spray your pond in sections. This will help keep the dissolved oxygen levels in the pond more stable. Cut down the dead cattails. Wait 10 to 12 days before cutting the cattails to allow the chemical enough time to work. You want to provide adequate time for the herbicide to fully kill the root system. Use a weed whacker or sharp blade to cut down the cattails. Remove the dead cattails from the pond.
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Dig up the cattails. Choose a chemical removal method. Calculate the area and volume of your pond. Apply the herbicide to the cattails. Cut down the dead cattails. Remove the dead cattails from the pond.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Adopt-a-Service-Dog
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How to Adopt a Service Dog
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To adopt a service dog as a pet, start by looking online for a service dog organization in your area. Then, visit the organization in person and choose a dog that's playful, happy, and a good fit for you or your family. Next, fill out an application and answer any questions the organization may have, like how you'll care for the dog or what other pets you have at home. Once your application is accepted, you'll be able to take the dog home for about a week on a trial basis before making a full commitment.
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Look for service dog organizations in your area though the internet. Many service dog organizations have dogs up for adoption. These dogs may either be ones that couldn't make it through the program or who have retired from service. Try searching "adopt service dog" with your city. These organizations are more likely to be in larger cities, so you may need to travel a bit if you live in a smaller city. Check out the dogs for adoption on the organization's website. Most of these organizations have a website. On that site, they'll usually have a specific tab that lists dogs they have available for adoption. Each dog will likely have a picture and biography. You can peruse the options on your own time to see if any of them look like a good match for your family. Ask why the dog didn't make it through the program. Most of the time, the dogs just aren't suited for the training needed to be a service dog. In that case, they will likely make perfect house pets. However, you should always ask just to make sure the issue is something you can live with as a pet owner. Visit the organization in person. It's also a good idea to visit in person. That way, you can meet the dogs and see if 1 of them has a personality that will be a good fit with your family. Plus, you can check out the facility to make sure it looks clean. Check the organization's requirements. Dogs that train service dogs may have slightly more stringent requirements than a regular shelter. Check the website for these requirements, or go ask in person. For instance, you may need to be 21 or older, and you might have to agree not to use the dog as a service dog. Keep in mind that many of these organizations have wait lists. You may have to wait years to get this type of dog. Choose a dog that's a good fit for you. Begin by deciding which dog you want. Look for playful, happy gestures, such as the dog licking your hand, wagging its tail, dancing around, or bowing its head with its behind up in the air. Bring other family members to make sure the dog is a good fit. Even if it responds well to you, it might respond badly to someone of the opposite sex or to children. Fill out an application. Most of these organizations have an application process. The application will likely you ask you about things like how you will care for the dog, whether you will be able to keep it indoors, and what other pets you have. You may also be asked to write a short answer about why you want this kind of dog. Answer any questions the agency may have. After the agency receives your application, the staff may have some more questions. You should answer these as openly and honestly as you can. For instance, if you've had multiple dogs in a short period, they may want to ask you why you went through so many dogs. They might also ask you how you plan to help the dog adjust to your home. Take the dog home on a trial basis. Most of the time, you'll take the dog home for a trial period, generally a week or so. That gives you and the dog both a chance to see if the dog is a good fit in your home. Give the dog a day or two to adjust. Have the dog spend time with each family member individually to make sure it likes and gets along with each person. Also, slowly introduce the dog to other pets to see if they get along. Sign the adoption papers and pay the fee. Once both you and the agency are satisfied that the dog is a good fit, you can sign the adoption papers. You'll also need to pay the fee, which can run anywhere from US$80 to US$500, depending on the agency. In some cases, you may need to pay the fee before taking the dog home on a trial basis. Find a program for service dogs. Your city may not have a program that trains service dogs. However, most programs are open to people traveling to them to get a dog. Pick a program that trains service dogs for your specific need. For instance, some focus on seeing-eye dogs, while other dogs are trained to help veterans or other people who are disabled. Check the cost. Some programs may require you to pay for your service dog. However, many provide service dogs to people for free, so you may not need to pay a cent. Keep travel costs in mind, though, if you need to travel to another area to receive your dog. Apply for the program by filling out an application. You should be able to find the application online. The applications for most of these programs are fairly extensive, as they receive many more applications than they have dogs. Therefore, they want to make sure every potential candidate is a good fit. An application can take several months, so prepare ahead of time. You may need to fill out information about your medical history, as well as information about your education, employment, travel skills, and any previous experience you have with service dogs. You'll also likely need to provide references. In some cases, you may need to provide proof that you can travel independently. Go through training. Service dogs receive extensive training, but they're not the only ones who need it! You will also need training on how to work with the dog, so that you can use its training properly to help you. Training can take 2 to 3 weeks, depending on the program you choose. Often, you'll work 1-on-1 with a trainer and your dog to learn everything you need to know. Some training is done at home. It just depends on the organization. Bring your new service dog home. Once you complete the training, you can bring your new service dog home with you to be a part of the family. It may take a while for the dog to integrate into your home, so be patient. Introduce the dog slowly to other family members and pets. Learn your rights as a service dog owner. If you have a disability, you have a right to bring your service dog into most public spaces and to your workplace to offer you assistance. The only exception to this rule is places that must meet specific standards of cleanliness, such as operating rooms; in that case, the organization may refuse entry to your dog. Keep your service dog under control in public. While you have a right to bring your dog with you to assist you in public places, you are required to keep your dog under control. In general, that means keeping the dog on a leash or harness, unless that makes it impossible for the dog to help you. If your dog needs to be off the leash, it must remain under your control through voice commands and gestures.
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Look for service dog organizations in your area though the internet. Check out the dogs for adoption on the organization's website. Ask why the dog didn't make it through the program. Visit the organization in person. Check the organization's requirements. Choose a dog that's a good fit for you. Fill out an application. Answer any questions the agency may have. Take the dog home on a trial basis. Give the dog a day or two to adjust. Sign the adoption papers and pay the fee. Find a program for service dogs. Check the cost. Apply for the program by filling out an application. Go through training. Bring your new service dog home. Learn your rights as a service dog owner. Keep your service dog under control in public.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Teach-Kids-to-Play-Guitar
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How to Teach Kids to Play Guitar
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To teach kids to play the guitar, start by deciding on an acoustic or an electric guitar, then choosing the right size for your child's age. For example, get a 1/4 size guitar if the child is 4-6 years old. Additionally, get several picks, a metronome, and a tuner, or simply buy a beginner's kit. Once you have everything, set up a dedicated practice space, help your child tune the guitar, and start with some single notes and basic scale work. You can also introduce simple strumming and chords so your child won't get bored with drills.
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Decide on acoustic or electric. You can find child-sized versions of both acoustic and electric guitars, and beginner's models typically will be roughly the same price. Talk to the child about what kind of music they enjoy and want to play. This can help you choose between acoustic and electric. Generally, if the child enjoys singer-songwriter, folk, and country music, they probably will feel more at home with an acoustic guitar. Kids who are more into rock music typically will want an electric guitar. Electric guitars can be easier to play than acoustic because the action is lower. Since there is less space between the strings and the fretboard, little fingers don't have to work as hard to play. With electric guitars, you also have the option of plugging headphones into the amp for silent practice. This can be helpful if you are concerned about disturbing neighbors or other people in the house. Get the right size for the child's age. If the guitar is too large for the child, playing will be frustrating. Guitars are typically measured by scale. Start with the size recommended for the child's age, but don't be afraid to go up a size if the child has larger hands or is taller than average. Get a 1/4 size guitar if the child is 4-6 years old. Get a 1/2 size guitar if the child is 6-9 years old. Get a 3/4 size guitar if the child is 9-11 years old. A full-size guitar is appropriate for children 12 years old or older. Get necessary accessories. To start playing a guitar, your child will need several picks, a metronome, a tuner, and probably a capo for simplified chords. Get these accessories together and let the child help pick them out. For example, the child can pick out fun picks in cool colors with cartoons or images on them that they like. Having fun accessories will help motivate the child to play. You can download metronome and tuner apps for a tablet or smart phone. If you're going to use these, make sure the child will have unlimited access to the device whenever they want to practice. Try a beginner's kit. A number of major guitar manufacturers, such as Gibson and Fender, put out beginner's kits that come with all the necessary accessories you'll need to get the child started playing guitar. Beginner's kits are especially helpful if you're getting an electric guitar, since they come up with an amp and everything else you need. Many of these kits also come with a workbook or DVD that includes a few beginner lessons and some songs. Buy the guitar in person. No amount of research substitutes for holding a guitar in your hands and trying it out for yourself. While you don't need to spend a lot of money, if a child actually wants to learn guitar you need to buy them a quality instrument – not a toy. Take time to examine the guitar, and talk to staff at the guitar shop. Do some research beforehand so you know generally what you're looking for, then go to a retailer that specializes in musical instruments. Avoid buying the child's guitar at a discount store or pawn shop. You may save some money, but you can't guarantee you're getting a quality instrument. You also won't have the benefit of educated and experienced staff to assist you. Set up a dedicated practice space. Keep the child's guitar and accessories in a specific spot with a sturdy, comfortable chair and other materials they'll need for practicing. This is an easy way to help the guitar become a regular part of the child's life. If possible, set this space up away from distractions, such as television or video games. Find a spot where the child won't be interrupted frequently and will always have some quiet time to practice their guitar. Tune the child's guitar. When a child is just beginning to learn the guitar, don't bog them down trying to teach them how to tune the guitar. You can start by doing it for them. Explain what you're doing and impress upon them the importance of keeping their guitar in tune. You can find videos online about guitar tuning and play them while you're tuning the child's guitar so they understand what you're doing. Show the child how to hold the guitar correctly. To start, it will probably be easier for the child to learn the guitar sitting rather than standing. Find a sturdy, straight backed chair that is low enough for them to sit with both feet firmly on the floor. It will take some practice for the child to hold their hands and fingers correctly, but emphasizing this at the beginning can keep them from developing repetitive motion injuries later on. Help the child make friends with their guitar. A guitar can be an intimidating instrument. Encourage the child to play around with the guitar, tapping on the body to hear echoes and plucking strings at random. This kind of unstructured play with the instrument will help the child become familiar with the guitar's sound. Especially if the child is really young (4-6 years old), they may not be ready to start with actual music right away. Just let them play around and experiment, maybe creating their own "songs." Encourage them to pay attention to what they're doing and repeat sounds. Have patience. A child may not be able to grasp the concepts you want to teach them as quickly as a teenager or adult would. Even some basic knowledge may be unknown to younger children. Remain calm and be prepared to explain even the simplest terms and phrases. For example, if you're teaching a 5-year-old, they may not know which finger is their ring finger and which finger is their index finger. Instead, number the child's fingers. Let them write the numbers on their fingers in washable marker. Work on single notes and basic scales. Spending a lot of time on scales and theory can cause children to become bored. But you still want to spend some time explaining how the notes are found on the strings and how they relate to each other. Don't spend more than a few minutes on this type of instruction during each lesson, or the kids will get bored and start to dislike the instrument. Most kids have an attention span the same number of minutes as their age – so if you're teaching a 6-year-old, keep this kind of instruction to 6 minutes and then move on to something else. Teach basic strumming patterns. Coordinating the right and left hands can be one of the most difficult things for any beginning guitarist – especially children. A basic down-strum is the easiest pattern to teach, and there are plenty of songs kids can play using this pattern. Once the child can consistently play with a basic down-strum, you can progress to a down-up pattern. If the child is more interested in picking the guitar and playing single-note melodies than playing chords, they still should have a handle on strumming techniques. Demonstrate how a note sounds slightly different on a down-strum than an up-strum. Simplify chords. Many chords are too difficult for small, uncoordinated fingers to play consistently. Use simplified versions of chords that only require one or two fingers so the child can play them easily. Get yourself a chord guide or download an app to find the simplest chord patterns to teach younger kids. Look for a pattern that only requires one or two fingers. Watch out in particular for chords that require the pinky finger. The pinky is the weakest finger, and a young child's pinky may not be developed enough to press the string cleanly. Demonstrate how to correctly put away the guitar. A child will feel more ownership and responsibility for their guitar and their musical education if they know how to properly maintain their instrument. Keep a shammy or soft cloth (such as an old t-shirt) handy, and teach the child to wipe down their guitar after every lesson or practice session. Make sure the child has a quality case and get them in the habit of storing their guitar when they're done playing for the day. Skip traditional songs. Instead of grinding through traditional songs, such as "Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star," that contemporary kids probably don't care about, go for songs the child is familiar with and already loves. Some songs are great for beginners, but even more complex songs can be broken down into simpler melodies. Ask the child what kind of music they enjoy. Have them list off some of their favorite songs. The more you can include songs the child already enjoys, the easier learning to play will be. Use simple riffs from classic rock songs. Particularly if the child wants to play electric guitar, classic rock songs are both recognizable and will make the child feel like a rock star even though they only know a few notes. For example, the riff from "Smoke on the Water" is a very simple classic progression that only requires one string. If the child is playing on electric, you can up the distortion so they can really rock with it. Encourage the child to sing along the fret numbers as they play. This will help the child mentally connect the tone with finger placement on the fretboard. Search for free videos and resources online. While you can spend money on apps or professional teachers, it's not necessary. There are plenty of resources online that you can use to teach kids to play guitar. For example, you can search YouTube for instructional videos. Make sure you watch the video ahead of time so you know it's kid-friendly and of good quality. There are also websites run by professional teachers who have put brief lessons online for free. For example, Coursera has free beginning guitar courses in conjunction with the Berklee College of Music. These classes may be too complex for younger kids. Justin Guitar is another free website where you can find introductory and beginner videos to help kids learn guitar basics, including simple chords and how to tune their guitars. Have home concerts. Once the kids start to play a few riffs, home concerts give them a chance to show off as well as get comfortable playing their instruments in front of a group of people. In warmer months, have concerts in the backyard and invite the neighbors.
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Decide on acoustic or electric. Get the right size for the child's age. Get necessary accessories. Try a beginner's kit. Buy the guitar in person. Set up a dedicated practice space. Tune the child's guitar. Show the child how to hold the guitar correctly. Help the child make friends with their guitar. Have patience. Work on single notes and basic scales. Teach basic strumming patterns. Simplify chords. Demonstrate how to correctly put away the guitar. Skip traditional songs. Use simple riffs from classic rock songs. Search for free videos and resources online. Have home concerts.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Pay-Payroll-Taxes
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How to Pay Payroll Taxes
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In order to pay your payroll taxes, start by going to the IRS website to apply for an Employer Identification Number and enroll in the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System. Then, log into your EFTPS account to schedule your taxes monthly if you reported $50,000 or less in taxes the previous year or semiweekly if you reported more than $50,000. Make sure you pay your semiweekly taxes by the 3rd day after the end of your semiweekly pay period. If you're paying monthly, you'll need to pay your taxes by the 15th of the following month.
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Add up your employee’s total compensation. For purposes of payroll taxes, gross wages generally include all salaries, bonuses, commissions, and fringe benefits. Basically, it includes all pay you give to an employee for their services. There are certain types of employee benefits that are tax exempt. For example, payments for accident or health insurance plans are not considered wages for purposes of federal income, Social Security, Medicare, and FUTA taxes. The rules are more complicated if you offer employees a 401(k) plan. For more information, see pages 38-42 of IRS Publication 15 (2019), available here: https://www.irs.gov/pub/irs-pdf/p15.pdf. Calculate federal income taxes. You must withhold and then deposit federal income taxes from your employees' paychecks. Accordingly, you must calculate how much to withhold, which will depend on how much they make. Refer to IRS Publication 15, Employer's Tax Guide, for more information. As an example, imagine you have one employee who you pay $500 a week. One easy way to calculate the amount of withholding is to use the wage bracket tables on pages 48-67 of Publication 15. Take out the employee's W-4, which you should have on file. This form should list the number of claimed allowances and whether the employee is single or married. On the wage bracket table, a single person making $500 a week with 2 allowances must have $28 withheld. There are wage bracket tables for daily, weekly, biweekly, and monthly pay periods. Calculate state income taxes. You also need to withhold and deposit state income taxes. The amount you must withhold will vary depending on your state. Contact your state's Department of Revenue for more information on how to calculate the withholding amount. Estimate the amount of Social Security and Medicare taxes. You need to withhold and deposit taxes for both Social Security and Medicare, which are collectively called “FICA” taxes. You also need to contribute a matching portion yourself as the employer. As of 2019, the Social Security tax rate is 6.2% for both the employer and employee. This tax is applied only to the first $132,900 of wages. For example, if your employee makes $500 a week, withhold 6.2% or $31 from their pay as the employee portion of the tax. As the employer, you must match this amount and pay $31 so that the total Social Security tax paid to the IRS for this employee is $62 per week. As of 2019, the Medicare tax rate is 1.45% for both the employee and employer. So, if your employee's paycheck is $500, withhold 1.45% or $7.25 for the employee portion of Medicare tax. As the employer, you pay an additional $7.25 so that the total amount submitted to the IRS for this employee for Medicare tax would be $14.50 per week. There is also an additional Medicare tax of 0.9% for high earners with an income in excess of $200,000 for those who are single or $250,000 for those who are married filing jointly. This additional Medicare tax is only required to be paid by the employee and is withheld from the employee's wages but there is no corresponding employer portion to be paid. Calculate your unemployment tax. As an employer, you pay this tax from your own funds. You don't withhold anything from your employees. You will pay 2 unemployment taxes—Federal Unemployment Tax (FUTA) and State Unemployment Tax (SUTA). In 2019, the FUTA tax rate is 6.00%. It applies to the first $7,000 of wages for each employee each year. Also calculate your SUTA, which you can claim as a credit against your FUTA up to 5.4%. Contact your state's Department of Labor to figure out how to calculate your SUTA. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Your EIN is a nine-digit number listed as follows: 00-0000000. You can apply for the number online at the IRS website: https://www.irs.gov/businesses/small-businesses-self-employed/apply-for-an-employer-identification-number-ein-online. If you already have an EIN but haven't been enrolled in the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), then call 1-800-555-4477 or visit https://www.eftps.gov/eftps/. You'll need to provide them with your tax ID number. Find out when you must deposit your federal taxes. The IRS has 2 schedules for depositing withheld income, Social Security, and Medicare taxes: monthly and semiweekly. You'll determine your deposit schedule based on your total tax liability. Look back to the previous year, which begins on July 1st and ends on June 30th (e.g., July 1, 2017 to June 30, 2018). For most people, you will file monthly if you reported $50,000 or less in taxes. If you reported more than $50,000, then you'll deposit semiweekly. Schedule your deposits. All federal deposits must be made by EFTPS. Log into your account or call 1-800-555-4477. Deposits are due only on business days, which exclude Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays. If a deposit is due on a holiday, then it will be due the next business day. To be on time, you must deposit by 8:00 pm Eastern Time the day before your deposit is due. If you deposit semiweekly, then you have 3 business days following the close of the semiweekly period. For example, if your payday falls on Wednesday, Thursday, or Friday, then you deposit taxes by the following Wednesday. If you deposit monthly, then deposit taxes on the 15th of the following month. For example, taxes for July will be deposited on August 15. Deposit your FUTA tax. Deposit using the EFT system. You deposit your FUTA taxes on the last day of the month that follows an end of the quarter: January-February-March quarter: deposit by April 30 April-May-June quarter: deposit by July 31 July-August-September quarter: deposit by October 31 October-November-December quarter: deposit by January 31 Deposit your state taxes. Follow the procedure outlined by your state's Department of Revenue. Many states allow you to deposit electronically through a website. Call your state's department if you have questions. Check if you must pay estimated taxes. Self-employed individuals generally must pay estimated taxes throughout the year if they expect to owe $1,000 or more when they file their taxes. If you don't pay estimated taxes, then you will be hit with a penalty. You don't have to pay estimated taxes for the current year if you had no tax liability for the prior year and were a U.S. citizen or resident for the year. The prior tax year must have covered 12 months. Estimate your tax. Use Form 1040-ES to calculate your estimated tax. You can download it from the IRS website. You should take out your prior year's tax return, which contains helpful information. Follow the directions on Form 1040-ES. Generally, you must estimate your adjusted gross income for the current year, using your income from the previous year. Remember to take the self-employment tax deduction. A worksheet is provided to calculate this amount. Schedule your quarterly payments. You must pay your estimated tax four times throughout the year. For 2019, the due dates are as follows: First payment: April 15, 2019 Second payment: June 17, 2019 Third payment: September 16, 2019 Fourth payment: January 15, 2020. However, you can include this payment when you file your annual tax return, provided you file by January 31, 2020. Pay online for convenience. The IRS provides many different online payment methods. For example, you can pay with a debit or credit card (though a convenience fee applies). Alternately, you can pay by electronic transfer directly from your checking or savings account. If you don't have all the money, you can fill out an online payment agreement at https://www.irs.gov/payments. Pay by phone to speak to an agent. You can pay using a debit or credit card by calling a service provider. Phone numbers are provided on the Form 1040-ES instructions. A convenience fee applies. You can also pay using the Electronic Federal Tax Payment System (EFTPS), which you must enroll for. However, once enrolled, you can pay by calling 1-800-555-4477. Pay by mail if that suits your preference. To pay by mail, you must fill out a payment voucher for that month. Make sure to use the correct voucher by checking the upper right-hand corner. You should include the completed voucher with your check or money order, made payable to “U.S. Treasury.” Include your Social Security Number and “2019 Form 1040-ES” on the check. Don't send cash. Payment vouchers are included with Form 1040-ES. Fill out all information requested on the voucher. Pay using cash in person if desired. If you want to pay cash in person, then you need to register online at https://www.officialpayments.com/fed. You can then make a maximum transaction of $1,000 a day at a retail partner.
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Add up your employee’s total compensation. Calculate federal income taxes. Calculate state income taxes. Estimate the amount of Social Security and Medicare taxes. Calculate your unemployment tax. Obtain an Employer Identification Number (EIN). Find out when you must deposit your federal taxes. Schedule your deposits. Deposit your FUTA tax. Deposit your state taxes. Check if you must pay estimated taxes. Estimate your tax. Schedule your quarterly payments. Pay online for convenience. Pay by phone to speak to an agent. Pay by mail if that suits your preference. Pay using cash in person if desired.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Download-Minecraft
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How to Download Minecraft
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To download Minecraft on your computer, visit the Minecraft website and click "Download" at the top-left of the homepage. Log in to your existing account or create a new one, then click "Buy," pay for the game, and follow the on-screen setup instructions. To download Minecraft on a smartphone, search for the app in the app store, then select the icon when it pops up to purchase and download it. If you're using an X-Box or Playstation, select the "Store" tab, type "Minecraft" into the search bar, then select and purchase the game to start downloading it.
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Open the Minecraft site. Go to https://minecraft.net/. This opens the Minecraft home page. Click Download. It's in the top-left side of the page. Doing so will take you to an account creation page. Log into your account. Click the log in link in the paragraph at the top of the page, then enter your email address and password and click LOG IN. If you don't have a Minecraft account, create a Minecraft account on this page before continuing. Click BUY MINECRAFT. This green button is in the middle of the page. Doing so will take you to the purchase page. Minecraft costs $26.95 USD. Select a payment type. You can use a credit or debit card by default, or you can select PayPal to pay through PayPal. Scroll down and enter your payment details. Type in your card's name, number, expiration date, and security code. If you're paying with PayPal, you'll instead enter your PayPal email address and password. Click PURCHASE. It's at the bottom of the page. Click DOWNLOAD FOR WINDOWS or DOWNLOAD FOR MAC. The button you see here will correlate with your operating system. Doing so will prompt the Minecraft setup file to download to your computer, after which point you can begin installing it. Double-click the Minecraft setup file. On a PC, this is an EXE file; on a Mac, it's a DMG file. Your computer may give you a standard warning that the file can damage your computer. This is only because malware is common in these files, but Minecraft is safe to open. Follow the on-screen setup instructions. These will vary depending on the version of Minecraft you're installing. On a Mac, you'll first need to verify the download before you can proceed with the setup. Wait for the setup to finish. Once the Minecraft setup completes, you will be able to open Minecraft by double-clicking on its icon. Open your iPhone's App Store. Tap the App Store icon, which is a light-blue app with an "A" made of writing utensils on it. Open the "Search" feature. Tap the magnifying glass icon at the bottom of the screen, then tap the search bar at the top of the screen. On an iPad, tap instead the search bar in the top-right corner of the screen. Type minecraft into the search bar. Make sure you spell it correctly. Tap Search. It's a blue button in the bottom-right corner of the keyboard. Tap $6.99. This button is to the right of the "Minecraft: Pocket Edition" heading. Tap INSTALL when prompted. It will appear in the same place as the $6.99 icon did. Enter your Apple ID password when prompted. Doing so will grant the App Store access to your payment information, which will complete the payment and prompt Minecraft to begin downloading. If you have Touch ID on your iPhone, you can scan your fingerprint instead. Once Minecraft finishes downloading, you can tap OPEN where the price was to open Minecraft. Open your Android's Play Store . It's in your Android's App Drawer. Tap the search bar. You'll find this field at the top of the screen. Type minecraft into the search bar. As you type, you'll see suggestions appear below the search bar. Tap the Minecraft icon. It's a brown block with a green top below the search bar. Doing so opens the Minecraft app page. Tap $6.99. This option is on the far-right side of the page. As evidenced by this button, Minecraft will cost you $6.99 to download. Tap ACCEPT when prompted. Doing so will purchase Minecraft and begin downloading the app onto your Android. Depending on your Android's settings, you may be prompted to enter payment information (e.g., card details) before Minecraft will download. Once Minecraft finishes downloading, you can tap OPEN to open it. Select the Store tab. While on the home screen, press your controller's RB button four times. Select Search and press A. The search option is a magnifying glass near the middle of the page. Type minecraft into the search bar. Use the on-screen keyboard to do so. Press your controller's ☰ button. It's to the right of the "Guide" button. This will search for Minecraft. Select Minecraft and press A. Doing so opens the Minecraft page. Select Buy and press A. This button is in the middle of the game's page. Doing so will bring up a payment window. Select Continue and press A. The purchase window will open. Select Confirm Purchase and press A. This will confirm your purchase and begin downloading Minecraft onto your Xbox One. If you don't have a payment option available, you'll have to add your credit, debit, or PayPal information first. If you have a Minecraft download code, select the Redeem Code option here instead and enter the code. Open the Store. Scroll left to select the Store tab, then press X. Select Search and press X. It's at the top of the screen. Search for Minecraft. Select M and scroll right, select I and scroll right, and repeat until you've spelled out "Minecraft". Scroll down to select Minecraft PlayStation 4 Edition and press X. It's about two-thirds of the way down the page, as there are several add-ons for Minecraft listed before it. Select Add to Cart and press X. This option is at the bottom of the screen. Select Proceed to Checkout again and press X. Doing so will take you to the payment method page. Select a payment method and press X. If you don't have a payment method, you must instead select Add a Payment Method and enter the method's details (e.g., a card number or your PayPal login information). Select Confirm Purchase and press X. Doing so will purchase Minecraft and prompt it to begin downloading to your PS4.
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Open the Minecraft site. Click Download. Log into your account. Click BUY MINECRAFT. Select a payment type. Scroll down and enter your payment details. Click PURCHASE. Click DOWNLOAD FOR WINDOWS or DOWNLOAD FOR MAC. Double-click the Minecraft setup file. Follow the on-screen setup instructions. Wait for the setup to finish. Open your iPhone's App Store. Open the "Search" feature. Type minecraft into the search bar. Tap Search. Tap $6.99. Tap INSTALL when prompted. Enter your Apple ID password when prompted. Open your Android's Play Store . Tap the search bar. Type minecraft into the search bar. Tap the Minecraft icon. Tap $6.99. Tap ACCEPT when prompted. Select the Store tab. Select Search and press A. Type minecraft into the search bar. Press your controller's ☰ button. Select Minecraft and press A. Select Buy and press A. Select Continue and press A. Select Confirm Purchase and press A. Open the Store. Select Search and press X. Search for Minecraft. Scroll down to select Minecraft PlayStation 4 Edition and press X. Select Add to Cart and press X. Select Proceed to Checkout again and press X. Select a payment method and press X. Select Confirm Purchase and press X.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Wear-White-Dresses
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How to Wear White Dresses
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There are a few things to remember when you wear white dresses. It's important to wear the right shade of white to complement your skin tone. If you have pale skin, stick with warmer whites, but if your skin is warmer, go for a cool white dress. Since white dresses can be more easily seen through, wear undergarments that match your skin tone underneath. Or, wear a slip under your dress to hide the shape and color of your undergarments. To bring some color to your outfit, choose red, green, or brown shoes. Be careful with black shoes, since this can often look too contrasting. You can also bring life to your look with a bold belt, bag, or piece of jewelry. Red, blue, and metallic colors complement white nicely.
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Consider your skin tone. While anyone can wear white, pairing your unique skin tone with the right shade of white can help you pull off the look even better. If white makes your skin look drab, gray, or sallow, you might be wearing the wrong shade. Here are the shades of white that are most recommended for different skin tones: Fair skin will look the best with warm whites. You should avoid stark whites, as they will only wash you out. If you have an olive complexion, you should consider a cool white to help balance things out. Champagne, rum, and silk white will also work. Medium complexions with pink or blue undertones should consider creamy ivories and whites. These will keep you from looking too rosy or flushed. If you have a dark complexion, you are in luck: you can wear any shade of white. Dark complexions with olive undertones should avoid yellow or ivory shades of white, however. Match the material to the occasion or setting. White dresses come in all sorts of materials, from breezy cotton and linens to heavier wools and crepes. While a flowing, white maxi dress would look wonderful at the beach or at a picnic, it would not be appropriate for the office; a dress made from wool or crepe would be more suitable and professional. Wear undergarments that match your skin tone. Choose a simple bra and pair of underwear, without any lace, beading, or other embellishments. Match the color to your skin tone as much as possible. Avoid wearing other colors, including white. Colors, patterns, and textures will all become visible under your dress. Purchase a slip to wear under the dress if needed. Tuck your hand into the dress. If you can see your hand, then you will need to wear a nude slip with the dress. Choose a plain slip that is a few inches/centimeters shorter than your dress. Even if you are wearing nude undergarments, a sheer dress will still show off too much of your figure. A slip will help make everything look smoother. Go big and bold with the color. White dresses are a blank canvas and a great excuse to add just about any color you want to your outfit. Red heels are a classic pairing, and you can finish the look with a wide, red belt, red lipstick, or a red clutch. If red isn't your thing, try emerald green instead. A cool blue is yet another option, but you might want to avoid anything with stripes, unless you are going for a nautical look. Try metallics for a touch of glam. Silver or gold heels are a great choice for white dresses. For an evening look, try a strappy sandal. For a daytime look, try something bold, such as a bootie. You can also try copper, bronze, or any other metallic shade, such as pearl. Give heeled, strappy sandals a try. These work with both long, maxi dresses and short, thigh-length dresses. For an evening look, try a metallic shade, such as silver or gold. You can also give your ensemble a boho feel with leather gladiator sandals. These go especially well with looser, tunic-style dresses. Go neutral with tan leather. Leather looks wonderful with white outfits. Paired with a loose, flowing dress, it can give your outfit a carefree, boho look perfect for the summer. If you want something more formal, you could try suede pumps in tan or beige instead. Red is a classic pairing for white dresses. Finish the look with a wide, red belt, red lipstick, or a red clutch. If red isn't your thing, try emerald green instead. A cool blue is yet another option, but you mind want to avoid anything with stripes, unless you are going for a nautical look. Pair white dresses with black shoes carefully. Black and white is a classic combination, but it can look very stark and severe. It is best left for evenings or formal events. If you want to try black shoes, try a pair of black ankle booties with a summer dress. Balance out the look with a black clutch, bangle, or belt. Avoid wearing white shoes unless it is with your wedding gown. They will make your outfit appear too bridal, monochromatic, or nurse-like. If you really want to wear white shoes, try a light silver color instead, or perhaps a pearly white. Show off your favorite statement necklace. Plain white dresses are perfect for making your favorite statement necklace stand out. Try to keep the occasion and the style of dress in mind, however. A loose, flowing, maxi dress would look better with a boho-style statement necklace made from leather, glass beads, and feather pendants. A white satin dress would look better with a silver, diamond necklace. Try other types of statement jewelry. If big, bulky, statement necklaces aren't your thing, you can certainly wear other things. Long, chain necklaces are a great option. You can also try on a pair of chandelier earrings or bangles. You can even stack different types of matching bangles to create a unique look! Go for metallic accessories. Like shoes, you can't go wrong with a silver belt or a gold clutch. If you are already wearing metallic shoes, however, you should match the color of your accessory to the shoe. For example, if you are wearing gold sandals, you should wear a gold belt, not a silver one. Give your outfit a boho feel with leather belts, bags, and cinchers. These go especially well with long maxi dresses. You can take your outfit to the next level by adding some colorful beaded jewelry as well. If leather isn't your thing, you can also try anything in beige, tan, or brown. Go bold with thick, wide belts and clutches. You can't go wrong with a wide belt in red, blue, or pink. Finish off the outfit with a matching clutch. This will help break up the monochrome and add a splash of color to your outfit. It is great if you want something subtle without appearing too dull or mundane. Pair your dress with other clothing pieces. White dresses can look a little plain, but you can make your outfit stand out by layering other clothing pieces on top. You can wear a solid color or even a patterned one, just make sure that it matches the style of your dress. Listed below are some ideas: If you like to keep things casual, pair a little white dress with a leather jacket and sneakers. Pair a sleeveless dress over a collared shirt. This will give you a vintage, jumper look. Complete your outfit with a matching belt. Add a detachable collar. If the collar is fancy and beaded, you can even use it in place of a statement necklace. Throw on a matching scarf or hat. If you already had on a pair of shoes, a belt, and a purse, and still feel that something is missing, try adding a hat or a silk scarf.
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Consider your skin tone. Match the material to the occasion or setting. Wear undergarments that match your skin tone. Purchase a slip to wear under the dress if needed. Go big and bold with the color. Try metallics for a touch of glam. Give heeled, strappy sandals a try. Go neutral with tan leather. Red is a classic pairing for white dresses. Pair white dresses with black shoes carefully. Avoid wearing white shoes unless it is with your wedding gown. Show off your favorite statement necklace. Try other types of statement jewelry. Go for metallic accessories. Give your outfit a boho feel with leather belts, bags, and cinchers. Go bold with thick, wide belts and clutches. Pair your dress with other clothing pieces.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Do-a-Back-Handspring
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How to Do a Back Handspring
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Before you try to do a back handspring, make sure you're comfortable doing a backbend, handstand, and back walkover. Then, once you're able to do those moves, find a spotter to hold your lower back and thighs while you practice doing a back handspring so it's easier. Also, try to practice on a trampoline when you're first starting out since it will help you get a higher jump and reduce your risk of injury.
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Bend your hips forward and swing your arms down. To begin, stand up straight with your arms extended by your ears. Then, sit back, like you're going to lean back in a chair. As you do this, swing your arms down and back behind you. Your knees should be directly over your feet, not positioned in front of your feet, or you won't generate enough momentum to land on your hands. Push through your toes and lift your arms up. Swing your arms forward until they reach over your head. Follow your hands with your eyes. At the same time, push through your toes to gain momentum and launch your body backward. Keep your legs together and your core muscles tight. Continue to fall backwards without arching your back too much. Arching your back too much is called undercutting and will not only make your back handspring look less pretty, but it could also injure your back. As you fall, let your legs continue to drive you upward and backward. Point your toes and extend through your ankles. Make sure you keep your head back between your arms as they approach the floor. Plant your hands on the floor. Reach for the floor as you fall backwards and make sure to keep your body arched. Keep your arms straight so you don't hit your head on the floor. Your fingers should be pointing up and away from your face with your palms flat on the ground. Let the momentum of your legs, with your lower body still following, carry you over. When your hands are planted on the floor, use the pads of your hands and fingers, your arms, and your shoulders for support. Don't put all of your weight and pressure on your hands. Swing your legs over your head. Snap your legs over your head and around to the floor, with your feet together and your toes pointed. Don't lock your knees, but keep your legs almost straight. Keep your shoulders in line with your hands. Plant your feet on the floor. Continue by swinging your legs and feet over and snapping them down firmly toward the floor. Keep your upper body straight as your toes approach the floor. Pop up. To finish the back handspring, land with your legs slightly bent and pop up to release your momentum. Bring your arms straight in front of you and then raise them up over your head. Don't be discouraged if you don't get it right immediately. Work with a spotter until you feel comfortable enough to do it on your own. With enough hard work, you'll have a neat and smoothly-executed back handspring in no time. Warm up. You shouldn't attempt a back handspring without warming up, as it makes you more likely to get hurt. Jog a few laps around the gym or track to get your blood flowing. You can also jump rope for a couple minutes, or do jumping jacks , lunges , or push ups. Stretch your wrists and ankles. Roll your wrists and ankles clockwise and counterclockwise five times each. Practice pointing and flexing your feet ten times each. To stretch your wrists, get on your knees and place your hands on the ground palms-down, with the fingers pointed at you. Then, pull back on your arms to feel a deep stretch in your wrists. To stretch your ankles, sit on a chair and put an exercise band or jump rope around one foot. Pull on the band with your hands and push against the force with your ankle. Repeat with the other foot. Practice your handstands. Begin by standing straight up with your arms over your head. Let your body fall forward and place your palms firmly on the ground. Kick one leg up and allow the other leg to follow naturally. Tighten your core and buttock muscles to keep yourself in the upright position. Do a backbend. Start by standing up straight with your legs shoulder-width apart and your arms extended by your ears. Look up at the ceiling, point your fingers, and push your hips forward. Slowly bend backward, keeping your arms locked. Plant your hands firmly on the ground and keep your feet in place. Lower yourself slowly to the ground after holding the backbend for 15-30 seconds. Do a back walkover. Once you're comfortable doing a backbend, practice doing a walkover. When you're fully in the backbend position, lift one leg off the ground and point your toes. Swing that leg around toward your head and push your other leg off the ground and allow it to follow naturally. Use a soft mat. To get comfortable going backwards you should use a soft surface to prevent injury of any kind. Find a cushy, soft mat and practice jumping backwards onto it. Swing your arms back the same way you would when doing a back handspring to get comfortable with the movements. Get a spotter. Make sure that when you try to do a back handspring for the first time, you have a spotter, like a coach or gymnastics teacher, to help you. This will prevent you from hurting yourself and will give you the confidence you need to successfully do the back handspring. The spotter should place one hand on your lower back and one hand under your thighs to help you flip backwards. Make sure your spotter can sustain your weight and that they know how to properly spot. Try your back handspring on a trampoline. If you're not feeling confident about backwards movements, or you're a beginner to this move, start off on a trampoline. This way, you can gain your confidence until you're ready to go and do it on a harder surface like grass without the risk of injury.
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Bend your hips forward and swing your arms down. Push through your toes and lift your arms up. Continue to fall backwards without arching your back too much. Plant your hands on the floor. Swing your legs over your head. Plant your feet on the floor. Pop up. Warm up. Stretch your wrists and ankles. Practice your handstands. Do a backbend. Do a back walkover. Use a soft mat. Get a spotter. Try your back handspring on a trampoline.
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https://www.wikihow.com/React-when-Your-Apology-isn%27t-Accepted
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How to React when Your Apology isn't Accepted
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It's easy to get upset when your apology isn't accepted, but try to stay calm by taking a deep breath. Avoid becoming defensive or insulting the person. Instead, simply say “okay” and walk away. Then, take a moment to calm down and put yourself in the other person's shoes to understand why they reacted badly to the apology. Once some time has passed, you can try apologizing again. Make sure to tell them what it is you did wrong, if you didn't the first time, so both of you are on the same page.
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Keep your facial expressions neutral, but genuine. When apologizing, you are likely being very honest and humble. When that apology is not accepted, it might make you angry, causing your face to tense up or perhaps even turn red. Work to remain as calm as possible. Though it is okay to cry or to express sadness, do not beg, plead, or yell. Be genuine with what you are feeling, but do not let your apology be overcome with negative emotional outbursts. For instance, perhaps your boss rolls his eyes while you are apologizing for missing a deadline. Instead of furrowing your brows or rolling your eyes too, avoid over-the-top facial expressions, and continue with your sincere apology. Before delivering the apology, practice some self-soothing techniques so that you can be at peace. Consider meditating beforehand or saying a quick prayer. Take a deep breath. When your apology is rejected, take a deep breath in through your nose and exhale slowly through your mouth. Do so until you feel calm and ready to either reopen the discussion or walk away. For instance, if your friend refuses your apology, you can practice deep breathing so that you don't react negatively to them. No need to breathe loudly as this can be perceived as aggressive. Make your breaths slow and steady. Avoid the defensive. Though your feelings are likely hurt, avoid being defensive. Do not insult them just because they did not accept your apology; this will only make matters worse. If you can think of nothing positive to say, simply say “okay” and walk away. Avoid making comments like “Well, I didn't care if you accepted my apology, anyway” or “You were never a good friend to me.” Now is not the time for bickering. Try to accept the other person's response, even if it is not the one you want to hear. Analyze possible solutions. In the moment, perhaps an apology is not the best way to mend an issue. Consider whether or not there are any fixes that you can employ. You can even try asking them if there is anything that you can do to fix the situation. Show that you're taking responsibility for your actions by thinking about ways in which you can correct your mistake in addition to or instead of an apology. For instance, if you knock someone's ice cream from their hand and say “sorry,” this might not be accepted. However, if you buy them a new ice cream, the issue can be quickly resolved. Put yourself in their shoes. Before reacting negatively to having your apology rejected, take a moment to consider things from their perspective. Perhaps their refusal has nothing to do with you and is more about them having a bad day in general. Reflect on any observations that you've had of them that day that could indicate that other factors are at hand. Perhaps you accidentally made an error on a project and your coworker is upset. However, if earlier in the day, your boss yelled at them, this could be at the core of their bad mood. Reconnect with them at a later time when they are in a better mood. There could be a number of reasons that they are not accepting your apology. Try not to take it personally, and come back later when things have cooled down. Take a break. Sometimes, an apology has to happen at the right time in order for it to be well received. Now could be a bad time for the two of you. Let them know that you are going to step away from the situation for a bit, but that you will be speaking to them soon. Say something like “Hey, why don't we both take a few minutes and then reconnect later? I would really like to continue talking but want to clear my head for a bit.” Summarize what you did. When you reapproach them to offer a second apology, start by summarizing exactly what you did wrong. This will ensure that the two of you are on the same page and will help to fully clear the air. Say something like “Gia, I apologize for yelling at you the other day. I was angry and that is no excuse. I should never have raised my voice at you; I was completely out of line.” Ask for clarification. After apologizing, make sure that there is nothing else that you have done that needs to be discussed. Your perception of the issue could be entirely different from theirs. For instance, you might think someone is mad because you yelled, but they really might be upset because you walked away from them afterwards when trying to speak to you. Say “Was there anything else that I did that bothered you? If so, I'd like for us to talk about it.” Listen. Once you have spoken, give them time to speak. Truly listen to them; do not interrupt them or plan out your responses in your head while they are speaking. Try summarizing back what they have said to you to make sure they feel heard. For instance, you might say “So, it sounds like you're saying that I really bothered you when I cut you off in the meeting the other day because it made you feel unimportant. I'm sorry for that and I want you to know that I value all of your contributions to our team.” Take responsibility for what you did. Never say things like “Well, I'm sorry for yelling BUT you made me mad.” Give your apology and leave it at that, with no exceptions or disclaimers. A half apology is no apology at all. Be open, honest, and genuine as well and don't preplan your words, but do some self reflection beforehand so you'll be ready. Address your own concerns. After you have both spoken at length about your own missteps, take some time to discuss any issues that you may have had with them. Do not make up and issue or bring up something that was resolved from the past in order to make yourself feel better; only bring real concerns to the table for discussion. Try to avoid blaming them or being defensive. Simply explain your perspective. You might say something like “I am truly sorry for what I said to you, Brian. Sometimes, though, you try to one-up me. Or you brag about how much money you have when you know I'm going through a tough time, so that makes me feel like you're trying to make me jealous.” Use "I" statements to describe how you feel. For example, "I feel like sometimes I am not heard," is less combative than, "You never listen to me." Make a plan to avoid future hurt. After having a candid conversation, develop a plan, either together or separately, to avoid these problems. For instance, if they were mad at you for interrupting them in a meeting, then put forth an effort to be more patient and to be a better listener. Give them space. The person you have wronged might need a bit of time to reflect on what happened as well as the apology. Give them that time. Don't blow their phone up continuing to ask for forgiveness; remember that you have already done that. You can check in every few days, if you haven't heard from them, but after a few weeks, avoid always being the first to reach out. Don't burn bridges. Don't badmouth them or gossip about them to others, especially if you are coworkers. Be cordial when you see them and greet them with a “hello” and a smile. Though you might not be friends, you never know if you will need them in the future, so don't add any more problems to your dynamic. Move on. At the end of the day, some people are simply unwilling to forgive, and they have that right. Avoid dwelling on the issue, especially if you have done what you can to make amends. Work to avoid making the same mistakes in the future and to create strong friendships and working relationships with others.
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Keep your facial expressions neutral, but genuine. Take a deep breath. Avoid the defensive. Analyze possible solutions. Put yourself in their shoes. Take a break. Summarize what you did. Ask for clarification. Listen. Take responsibility for what you did. Address your own concerns. Make a plan to avoid future hurt. Give them space. Don't burn bridges. Move on.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Weld-Bronze
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How to Weld Bronze
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Before you weld bronze, put on gloves, a mask, and a welding suit for protection. Then, use a degreasing solution to clean the metal surfaces you're welding, and coat the weld spot with flux. Next, start your torch or welder, bring it close to the metal without touching it, and move it around so the metal heats evenly. When the metal changes colors, lower a filler rod to the heat, so the filler pools and forms a weld. At that point, turn off your torch or welder, and let the weld cool. Once it solidifies, rinse the welded metal in hot water to clean it.
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Get a TIG welder. This is an arc welder. It uses an electrical current to weld. Your machine should have a tungsten electrode and a chamber for shielding gas. These can be found at local hardware stores. Oxyacetylene torches are an option for producing a weaker weld in the process known as brazing, which shouldn't be confused with welding. It follows the same steps as TIG bronze welding but melts only the filler rod, not the surface metal. Find argon gas. The shielding gas is what protects the material you are welding from the environment. Oxygen and water vapor getting into your project will weaken the weld. The gas you'll use is argon, possibly combined with some amount of helium depending on the depth of the weld. The cylinder that contains the gas fits into the chamber on your welder. Pure argon is used for welds up to two millimeters thickness. The thicker the weld, the more helium you'll want in the gas. Get filler rods. The filler rods are what you'll use to create the weld. For bronze welding, you'll use a bronze rod, but these rods come in varieties with differing amounts of copper, aluminum, and other metals. Ideally, you want to match the composition of the rod you use to the metal you're welding and the thickness of the weld you need. For example, a bronze rod with 10% aluminum is good for close-fitting joints, but a bronze rod with 7% tin is good for welding dissimilar and unknown metals. Welding rods are thicker than brazing rods. Brazing rods look very narrow because they're used to leave only a line of bronze on metal. Choose the right flux. Flux is a substance that cleans metal, protects it, and facilitates heat transfer. When using a TIG welder, flux isn't necessary to do the welding, but you may still wish to use it for cleaning. Choose a flux that matches the metals in the objects and rods you are welding. If you are using an oxyacetylene torch, you'll need flux to protect metal against oxides. Take safety precautions. Welding should only be started once your skin is protected. Wear a mask to avoid acids, welding odors, sparks, and stray fragments. Underneath, wear a welding suit that covers your arms and legs. Put on gloves before starting any torches. Weld in a well-ventilated area to avoid fumes coming from the gas, heat, and metal. Clean the metals. To get a good weld, the surface of the metal you're using has to be free from substances such as oxides, grease, and oil. Use a degreasing solution first from a local hardware store to remove the grease and oil first. Rust and scale can be removed by pickling, soaking the metal in a compatible strong acid such as hydrochloric acid. Use an abrasive such as an emery cloth to remove dirt. Rinse the metal in warm water to remove leftover acid and debris before you weld. Flux the parts. If using flux, use a brush to coat the spot where the weld will happen. The flux looks like a paste and should be spread evenly along the surface. Coat the filler rod too or dip it into the flux. Cover it completely with the flux. The bigger the welding piece and rod, the more flux you'll need in order to get more heat. Start your welder. If you're using a TIG welder, set it to a low current, about 80-95 amps. Halve the current for brazing. An AC (alternating current) setting is good for keeping the oxide out when using aluminum bronze, but otherwise a DC (direct current) is a common choice. A DC current heats up faster and needs to be restarted less. Heat the welding surface. Start your torch or welder and bring the heat close to the surface. The metal will have a higher melting point than the filler rods, but still avoid pointing the heat directly at the surface. Keep the torch or welder moving, causing the metal to heat up evenly. Look for the metal to change colors, such as to a dull red or orange. Metal expands in heat. This makes the filler material join to it more completely. Lower the rod to the heat. Hold the torch or welder at an angle so that it strikes the bottom of the rod. A little heat should reach the metal you are welding in order to keep it warm. Move the rod along the surface as the filler material pools and forms the weld. Monitor the surface for an even distribution of heat. If you used flux, the flux will change colors and disappear when it gets hot. Your filler will move towards the hottest areas. Allow the weld to cool. Turn off your torch and put away what's left of your filler rod. Let the weld set. The weld should be solidified before you attempt to clean it. Clean the weld. If you used flux, you need to make sure all of it is gone or else it will corrode the metal. Rinse the welded metal in hot water while it is still hot, if you can. Use a wire brush to remove stubborn scales. For oxide formed during welding, repeat the process of pickling the metal in an acid bath, such as hydrochloric acid. Rinse off the acid when done. Remember to keep wearing protective gear to shield against damaging acid.
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Get a TIG welder. Find argon gas. Get filler rods. Choose the right flux. Take safety precautions. Clean the metals. Flux the parts. Start your welder. Heat the welding surface. Lower the rod to the heat. Allow the weld to cool. Clean the weld.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Recognize-Herpes
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How to Recognize Herpes
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To recognize herpes, look for itchy lesions near your mouth, genitals, buttocks, thighs, or vulva. If your lesions change to blistering, oozing sores, you probably have herpes. Pay attention to any accompanying symptoms, like headaches, fatigue, and fever, which are common with herpes. If you think you're having a herpes outbreak, visit your doctor, who will prescribe you medication in the form of pills or a topical cream to help reduce your symptoms.
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Look for itchy lesions. The main way that you will be able to tell if you have genital herpes is through the lesions that appear on your genital area. These present approximately 6 days after infection. HSV-1 lesions will usually appear on or in the mouth. HSV-2 lesions will appear on the thighs, buttocks, rectum, and perineum. If you are female, they will present on the vulva, labia, internal vaginal entrance, and cervix, while they appear on the glands of the penis and shaft and inside the urethra if you are male. There will likely look like a clustering of red sores on the affected area at first. They are described as painful with burning and itching in the first hours to days after they present.. Notice other physical symptoms. The onset of the lesions will likely be accompanied by other physical symptoms as well. You may suffer from headache, fatigue, fever, and swelling of the lymph nodes of the genital region (these nodes are located above and to the sides of your genitals). You may also get other viral symptoms since your body is trying to fight off the herpes virus.. These include flu-like symptoms such as fever, general aches and pains, and overall discomfort. Watch for a change to blistering sores. The itchy, burning lesions will start to change hours to days after they appear, depending on your particular case. They will change from the burning, itchy lesions into blistering, oozing sores. They will start to form patches or rows and start secreting a pus-like substance. This liquid is typically straw-colored with streaks of blood in it.. Take note of improvements. Eventually, the sores will begin to crust over. Not too long after this phase, the skin around the sores will begin the heal and grow new, non-irritated skin. They should heal without scar formation. The time frame of this stage depends on the severity of your outbreak. These symptoms are indicative of the first initial outbreak. These symptoms are always worse and more severe than other outbreaks. The first outbreak can last anywhere from 2-6 weeks. Any subsequent outbreaks last, on average, about 1 week. Learn the different types. There are two different kinds of viruses that are considered herpes. The HSV-1 is the virus that is responsible for cold sores, although it can also cause genital herpes. HSV-2 is the primary virus that is responsible for genital herpes. There are many more cases of HSV-1 than HSV-2; about 65% of people in the U.S. have been infected with HSV-1, often during childhood. Many people that have herpes are not aware that they have it, especially since it causes no symptoms outside of an outbreak of lesions. Because of this, there are hundreds of thousands of new cases of herpes in the US alone each year, and about 80% of people infected with HSV-2 do not show symptoms. The most direct way to spread herpes is through contact with the lesions or the secretions that contain the virus. However, it is possible to spread herpes outside of an outbreak when the virus is shed from the seemingly uninfected skin. This shedding does decrease as time passes since your first infection, reducing up to 70% after 10 years. Receive laboratory confirmation from your doctor. If you think you may have lesions or sores from herpes, you need to get medical tests done in order to be sure. The Polymerase chain reaction, or PCR, test is the standard way of testing for the herpes virus. This test copies your DNA from a blood sample (or from a lesion or spinal fluid). This DNA is tested to reveal whether you are infected with HSV, and which strain of the virus you have. You may also have a viral culture performed. During this test, your doctor will swab one of your lesions and place the sample in a Petri dish. This test takes a little time because the virus has to have time to grow. Once virus growth is achieved, your doctor will examine it to determine which form of the virus you have. This test takes more time and is often less accurate than the PCR. Take valacyclovir (Valtrex). There is no cure for herpes, but you can do some things to help shorten the length of your outbreaks. As soon as you think you may be having an outbreak, you should see your doctor to get some medication. After your official diagnosis, most doctors will provide you with a prescription to have on hand so you can start treatment right away. Valacyclovir is one commonly prescribed medication. If it is your first outbreak, you should start taking it within 48 hours of your first symptoms and take it for 10 days. The dosage will depend on the patient, so you should follow your doctor's instructions. In general, the dosage is 1000mg twice a day for 10 days for the first outbreak. For subsequent outbreaks, the general dosage is 500mg twice a day for 3 days. If you suffer from frequent outbreaks, which means you have more than 9 a year, you can use valacyclovir as a method of suppression therapy. This means you use the drug to help you stop getting outbreaks instead of taking it at the first sign of an outbreak. If this is your situation, take it as your doctor recommends. The general dose is 500mg twice a day, every day. Initial symptoms begin as a mild stinging and itching in the region which will progress to blisters within hours to days. Start taking your medication at the first signs of that tingling, burning or itching. Try acyclovir (Zovirax). Although valacyclovir is the most current medication for herpes, you can also try an older medicine that is not used as much anymore. This is due to the frequency of the dosing schedule, which causes a decrease in the patient's compliance. However, it is often much cheaper than valacyclovir. As with other medications, the dosage will differ depending on the patient, so you should take it exactly as your doctor prescribes. If you are prescribed this medicine during your first episode, in general, you will take 200mg orally 5 times a day, while awake, for 10 days. If you are suffering a recurrent episode, you should take 200mg orally 2-5 times a day, while awake, for 5 days (or up to a year). You can also get acyclovir as a cream. It is not nearly as effective as oral therapy, but it may assist the healing process in any oral lesions. Apply cream every 3 hours while awake for one week. Ask your doctor about famciclovir (Famvir). Like the other herpes medications, it is best to ask your doctor for a prescription for famciclovir within 48 hours after your symptoms begin. The dosage is different for each patient, so you should always take it in compliance with your doctor's recommendation. The general dose to treat an outbreak is 1000mg twice a day for one day. The general dose for suppressing a recurrent outbreak is 250mg twice a day for up to a year. In general, you will take a tablet twice a day for one day to treat a recurrent outbreak. To keep outbreaks from recurring, your doctor may suggest you take it twice a day for up to a year. Try home remedies. There are multiple home remedies you can try to help with your herpes breakouts. Lysine is an amino acid that has been proven to help with outbreaks, especially oral ones. You should take 1000mg of lysine 3 times a day. You can also get more lysine from your diet by eating lysine-rich foods such as fish, chicken, eggs, and potatoes. You can also take aspirin to help with your outbreaks, but talk to your doctor before starting an aspirin regimen. One of its active ingredients, willow bark, helps repress the virus. Take 325mg once a day. You can also apply lemon balm directly to your lesions. It may provide modest improvement when applied to lesions 4 times a day until your lesions start healing. Kind of like the Zovirax cream, you can buy a topical zinc cream that may help. Apply the cream with zinc oxide in it daily to your herpetic lesions to promote healing. You can also rub aloe vera gel onto the lesions to help promote healing and stimulate new skin growth.
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Look for itchy lesions. Notice other physical symptoms. Watch for a change to blistering sores. Take note of improvements. Learn the different types. Receive laboratory confirmation from your doctor. Take valacyclovir (Valtrex). Try acyclovir (Zovirax). Ask your doctor about famciclovir (Famvir). Try home remedies.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Lower-the-pH-of-Water
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How to Lower the pH of Water
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If you want to lower the pH in your drinking water, try adding a few drops of lemon juice to your glass. The natural acidity in the lemon will help balance the pH. For a more long-term fix, install a water filter on your tap to filter out the contaminants that raise pH as soon as it comes out of the tap. If a high pH is an ongoing problem, consider having a specialist install an acid-injection system at your water source.
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Add lemon juice to a glass of water to adjust a single serving. If you don't want to treat your water at the source and you don't mind a citrus flavor in your water, drop 2-3 drops of lemon juice to an 8 fl oz (240 mL) glass of water. The lemon will naturally lower the pH of the water by making it more acidic. You can also try dropping a lemon wedge in your water if you want a stronger lemon taste. Using pure citric acid will have the same effect. Install a water filter on your tap to lower pH at the source. A water filter works by removing minerals from your water that can raise the pH, including sodium, fluoride, and potassium. Depending on the model you choose, the filter can usually just be screwed onto your faucet. When you turn on the tap, the filter will lower the pH of the water. You can find water filters at any home improvement store or supercenter. Most household water filters can purify about 10 US gal (38 L) of water every hour. Lower the pH of large amounts of water with food-grade acids. Food-grade preparations of phosphoric, sulfuric, and lactic acids are often used when a recipe, such as a fermentation process, calls for a lower pH. The proportion of these acids to your water will depend on which one you choose and the pH you're trying to reach, so read the packaging closely. These products are often sold where food supply, fermentation, and beer-making supplies are sold. Install an acid injection system to fix an ongoing problem. An acid injection system balances your water by sensing the pH level where it comes out of the source. It then injects food-grade acids into the flow of the water so it's balanced when it comes out of the tap. The installation for this type of system is best handled by a professional, so talk to a local water specialist in your area if you're interested. The system and installation can easily be upward of $1500, but if you're having a problem with high pH in your water, it is an effective fix. Research the water pH needs of the specific plants you're growing. Before you attempt to lower the pH of your water, be sure that your plant prefers an acidic environment. Some plants, such as azaleas and sweet potatoes, prefer more acidity. However, other plants, including wisteria and beets, prefer a neutral or slightly alkaline environment. Most plants thrive in a pH range of 5.5-7.0. Drop lemon juice in your watering can for a natural fix. If you put ⁄ 8 tsp (0.62 mL) of lemon juice in 1 US gal (3,800 mL) of water, you can lower the pH by about 1.5 points. The lemon juice can be either freshly-squeezed or bottled, but be sure it's 100% pure. You can also use citric acid instead, but you may need to dissolve it in a little water first. If you're planning to test the water again, stir in the lemon juice and wait about 5 minutes to ensure it disperses evenly throughout the water. Add vinegar to the water for an inexpensive fix. Measure 1 US tbsp (15 mL) of plain white vinegar and pour it into 1 US gal (3,800 mL) of water. The natural acidity of the vinegar will help neutralize the alkalinity in the water, bringing a pH of 7.5-7.7 down to about 5.8-6.0. Vinegar has a pH of 2-3 and lemon juice has a pH of 2, so their effect on water is similar. Add muriatic acid for a quick adjustment in your pool. Muriatic acid, or hydrochloric acid, is commonly used in pools to lower the pH. Depending on the preparation you choose, you'll either add the acid directly to the pool or dilute it in a bucket of water, then pour into the pool. When you pour in the muriatic acid, hold the container close to the surface of the water so it doesn't splash back onto you. Also, pour the acid directly over a return jet so it will circulate through the water more quickly, and make sure the vent on the return jet is pointing down, if you have one. You can buy muriatic acid wherever pool supplies are sold. Read the label carefully to determine how much muriatic acid to add to your pool. Add a little less than you think you need, wait 4 hours, and test again. Add more if needed. Opt for sodium bisulfate for a gentler solution. Sodium bisulfate often comes in granulated form, and depending on the manufacturer's instructions, you either add them directly to the water, or dissolve them in a bucket then pour them into the pool. Sodium bisulfate helps stabilize your pool's pH after it's lowered, so it may be a better option for long-term maintenance. While it's still a dangerous chemical, sodium bisulfate isn't as harsh as muriatic acid. However, it may not work as quickly, and often lowers the total alkalinity (TA) of your pool more than you may want. Use the packaging and your pH readings to determine how much sodium bisulfate to add to your pool. Sodium bisulfate is also found wherever you buy your pool supplies. Install a CO2 system in your pool for long-term balancing. Some CO 2 systems are fully-automated, which means that the system will monitor the pH levels in your pool and will add CO 2 to lower the pH as needed. Others are controlled manually, so you will need to check the levels daily and adjust the flow of CO 2 as needed. To determine which one is right for you, talk to a pool specialist in your area. These systems range from $300 to over $10,000, depending on the features you want, but it could save you money if you're spending a lot on chemicals to balance your pH. Test the pH at least twice a week with a test kit. The chemicals used in your pool will become unbalanced if they're left unattended, so it's important to test the pH in your pool about 2-3 times a week, even after you balance it. You can use litmus test strips if you like, but a DPD test kit will give you more accurate results. These kits measure the pH and total alkalinity (TA) of the water, along with the pool's chlorine levels, making it easier to balance your pool all at once. Oils from skin, sunscreen, lotion, and dirt can all change the pH balance in your pool. If your pool is being used every day, you probably need to check it daily. You can find these test kits wherever pool supplies are sold. Install a CO2 bubbler to temporarily lower the pH in an aquarium. Adding a CO 2 bubbler to your tank can gently lower the pH, and it works quickly, so it's a good option if your pH has spiked suddenly. However, CO 2 is expensive, and the pH will go back up as soon as the CO 2 is gone, so it's not a good long-term solution. You can find CO 2 for a tank at a store that specializes in tank supplies. Try a reverse osmosis filter for a large fish tank. A reverse osmosis filter is an extremely efficient filter that removes up to 99% of contaminants from water while leaving the ions that make fish healthy. Since the contaminants are what raise the water pH, the filter will naturally lower the pH level as it cleans the water. These filters can cost upward of $50, and they take up a lot of space, so they're best for larger tanks. Place driftwood in your fish tank for natural filtration and decoration. In addition to looking great in a fish tank, driftwood naturally filters the water in your tank. Even a small piece of natural driftwood will lower the pH in your tank, and will also help stabilize it. In addition, the wood will give your fish a new place to explore. Driftwood can sometimes discolor the water in your tank. To avoid this, soak the wood in a bucket of water for several days before adding it to your tank. Do not use driftwood intended for reptile tanks in a fish tank. It may have been soaked in chemicals that could leak into the water and harm your fish. Even a small piece of driftwood will help filter the water in the tank, so pick one that looks like it fits naturally in with your decor. Add peat moss to your filter for another natural boost. Since peat moss can clump together and might get removed when you're cleaning your tank, it's best to put it inside of a mesh bag, then place the bag inside of your filter. The peat moss will naturally assist your filter, helping lower the pH in the tank. Use the size of your filter to help you determine how much of the moss you need to use. Peat moss is also prone to discoloring the water in your tank. To avoid this, soak it for a few days in a bucket of water before placing it in your tank. The amount of peat moss you should use will depend on the size of your tank and the pH level you're trying to reach. Experiment with different amounts to find what works for your tank. You can buy peat moss online or where fish tank supplies are sold. Drop 2-3 Catappa leaves into your tank for a pretty, simple fix. The leaves of the Catappa tree, or the Indian almond tree, contain certain chemicals that help filter contaminants from your water. Not only will this help lower the pH of the water to a more stable level, but these chemicals may prevent or even cure some fish diseases, so the leaves could make your fish healthier! The tannins in the Catappa leaves may slightly change the color of the water, but it won't be as noticeable as using peat moss or driftwood Remove crushed coral from your tank if you have any. If you're having trouble with a high pH level in your tank, your substrate could be to blame. While it looks great in a tank, crushed coral can actually raise the pH level of the water, so you should only use it if you have fish who prefer a more alkaline environment.
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Add lemon juice to a glass of water to adjust a single serving. Install a water filter on your tap to lower pH at the source. Lower the pH of large amounts of water with food-grade acids. Install an acid injection system to fix an ongoing problem. Research the water pH needs of the specific plants you're growing. Drop lemon juice in your watering can for a natural fix. Add vinegar to the water for an inexpensive fix. Add muriatic acid for a quick adjustment in your pool. Opt for sodium bisulfate for a gentler solution. Install a CO2 system in your pool for long-term balancing. Test the pH at least twice a week with a test kit. Install a CO2 bubbler to temporarily lower the pH in an aquarium. Try a reverse osmosis filter for a large fish tank. Place driftwood in your fish tank for natural filtration and decoration. Add peat moss to your filter for another natural boost. Drop 2-3 Catappa leaves into your tank for a pretty, simple fix. Remove crushed coral from your tank if you have any.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Play-Carrom-for-Beginners
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How to Play Carrom for Beginners
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If you're a beginner playing Carrom, start by thinking of the game as finger billiards, and getting familiar with the symbols on the board. You also need to understand the function of the 9 black and 9 white playing pieces, 2 striker pieces, and red queen, which acts like the black 8-ball in billiards. When you play, use your striker piece to hit your other pieces into the game board pockets by flicking it. To win, try to get the queen and all of your own pieces pocketed before your opponent does.
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Familiarize yourself with the symbols on the board. Think of Carrom as a game of finger billiards. Instead of balls, you use small playing pieces and try to put them in pockets with a heavier piece called a striker. A Carrom board is a large wooden board that contains a variety of markings. Make sure you know the meaning of these markings before you begin to set up the game to play. It's vital to understand the board in order to play carrom effectively. The Carrom board should be positioned 60-70 centimeters (roughly 23 to 28 inches) above the ground. A circular hole sits in each of the board's four corners, and a net is placed under each hole to catch the pieces. There are two foul lines on the board, and two concentric circles stand in the board's center. The center circle is the size of a playing piece, and the main circle is six times larger. Before beginning the game, the pieces are arranged in these circles. There are also rectangles drawn on either side of the board. Each player has his or her own rectangle, and must shoot their strikers from these rectangles. Learn the significance of carrom pieces. There are 9 black pieces in carrom, 9 white pieces, and one red piece (sometimes referred to as "the queen"), in addition to two pieces known as the "striker pieces." Each player has 9 pieces in Carrom, in addition to one striker piece. One player has all black pieces, and the other player has all white pieces. Sometimes, the pieces are referred to as carrommen. The white and black pieces are smooth, wooden pieces that look something like the ones used for the game checkers. In each round, you attempt to use your striker to knock these pieces into the board's pockets. The red piece is called the queen, and it can be pocketed any time you want after sinking your first piece (the queen's function is similar to the black 8 ball in Billiards). If you have less than 24 points, the queen will add an additional 5 points to your score. If you have more than 24 points, you receive no additional points for pocketing the queen. Set the board up for play. To start the game, put the queen in the board's center. Then, put six pieces around the queen directly in a circle. Each of those six pieces should touch the queen and its neighboring piece. Position the remaining 12 pieces around the inner circle of six pieces. Make sure each outer piece must touch the inner circle. Alternate the color of the pieces. In other words, the circle should have one red piece, followed by a white piece, followed by a red piece, and so on. You and your opponent should place your strikers in the rectangular boundaries on either end of the board. Sit opposite from each other. The game is often played as singles with two opponents, although sometimes people play Carrom in teams. At any rate, teams or players should sit opposite from one another. You and your partner, or your team and your partner's team, should take a seat at opposite ends of the board. You should each have your own rectangle from which to shoot your striker. Practice gripping your striker. The striker is the heavier piece you use to hit your pieces into the pockets. If you're new to the game, it's a good idea to practice gripping and hitting the striker a few times before playing. Make sure you flick the striker instead of pushing it. You cannot move or leave your chair when using the striker, and you have to hit the striker from within the rectangular boundary on your end of the board. There are two main grips you can use to hit the striker: the straight grip and the scissors grip. The most commonly used grip is the straight grip. It may be easier to maneuver if you're new to carrom. You hold your hand palm side down and rest your fingertips very lightly on the carrom board. You would hold your index finger just behind the piece and make your shot by flicking your finger. For added control, hold the striker between your thumb and third finger to position it before flicking it. The scissors shot is less commonly used, but you may find it more comfortable. You would place your hand sideways on the board, so your ring and pinky finger are pressed on the board. You would then hold your middle finger backwards with your index finger, so these two fingers are at a roughly perpendicular angle with your pinky and ring finger. It looks somewhat like a pair of scissors. A shot is made by releasing your middle finger, causing it to snap forward and hit the striker. Determine who goes first and have that player break the circle. Usually, a coin flip is used to determine who goes first, but there are no strict rules. If you'd rather not do a coin flip, you can follow rules of other board games, such as "the oldest player goes first" or "the tallest player goes first." Once you've determined who goes first, that player has to break the circle in the middle by taking the first shot with his or her striker. It's unlikely any player will get a piece in the pocket on the first shot. In the event this occurs, however, that player will continue to take turns until he or she fails to pocket a piece. You must always return your striker to your rectangle before taking a new shot. Take turns until you determine who pockets which colors. You do not go into a game of carrom knowing whose pieces are black and whose are white. This is determined in play. The first player to pocket a piece must pocket pieces in that color for the rest of the game. The object of carrom is to get all your pieces pocketed before you opponent does. You should also aim to pocket the red piece, sometimes referred to as the queen. The red piece, or queen, can only be pocketed after you've pocketed a piece of your color. Continue playing until the conclusion of the first round. A round of carrom ends when one player pockets all of his or her pieces, and the queen has been pocketed. You play rounds until one player has reached 29 points. The first player to hit 29 points wins. Remember, you and your opponent take turns shooting your striker. You can only shoot your striker from within your rectangular boundary. In the event you pocket a piece, you get to continue to play. You can shoot your striker again, and can continue to shoot your striker until you fail to pocket a piece. Follow rules regarding the queen. The queen, or red piece, has to be pocketed by the end of a round. A player must both pocket and "cover" the queen. Covering the queen simply means one player has pocketed the queen following the rules of the game. Under certain circumstances, you can pocket the queen but not "cover" it, and the queen will be returned to the board. You cannot pocket the queen until you've pocketed at least one piece in your color. In the event you pocket the queen before pocketing any pieces, you have not covered the queen. The queen will be returned to the center of the board. If you pocket the queen after pocketing one of your own pieces, you have successfully covered the queen. The queen will not be returned to the board and you may receive points for the queen at the conclusion of the round. Penalize players for fouls. There are fouls in the game of carrom. In the event you or your opponent commits a foul, you are penalized by having one of the pieces in your color returned to the board. The following situations can result in a foul: If you accidentally pocket a striker, this is a foul. You will also receive a foul if you knock your striker or another piece off the board. If you pocket an opponent's piece, this is a foul. In addition to having one of your pieces returned to the board, pocketing an opponent's piece comes with an additional penalty. If you pocketed and covered the queen earlier in the game, the queen is also returned to the board. If you pocket your final piece before the queen has been pocketed, both the piece you pocketed and the penalty piece are returned to the board. In other words, two pieces are returned to the board in this case. If you touch any piece besides your striker, this is a foul. Continue playing a round until one player has pocketed all of his or her pieces. The first player to pocket their pieces wins the round, and is then awarded points. However, a round cannot end with the queen still on the board. The queen must have been pocketed and covered by one player for the round to conclude. Score each round properly. To determine your score, count how many pieces your opponent still has on the board. For example, say your opponent has 5 pieces remaining on the board. Your score would be 5. If you pocketed and covered the queen during the game, an additional 5 points are added to your score as long as your score is below 24. If you had 5 points based on your opponent's pieces, and you covered the queen, your score for the round is 10. Points add up as you continue to win rounds. Once you reach 24 points total, you no longer get the additional 5 points for covering the queen. Complete the game. There is no set number of rounds you play in carrom. You simply play until a player hits 29 points. You add up scores from each round. Eventually, someone should hit 29 points or higher, allowing the game to end. For example, you score 12 points in the first round. Your opponent wins the next round, scoring 9 points. In the following round, you score 12 points again, giving you a score of 24. In the fourth round, your opponent wins and scores 5 points, giving him or her a total score of 14 points. In the fifth round, you score 8 points. You have a score of 32, exceeding the 29 points you need to win. You have won this game of carrom.
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Familiarize yourself with the symbols on the board. Learn the significance of carrom pieces. Set the board up for play. Sit opposite from each other. Practice gripping your striker. Determine who goes first and have that player break the circle. Take turns until you determine who pockets which colors. Continue playing until the conclusion of the first round. Follow rules regarding the queen. Penalize players for fouls. Continue playing a round until one player has pocketed all of his or her pieces. Score each round properly. Complete the game.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Capture-an-Angry-or-Upset-Cat
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How to Capture an Angry or Upset Cat
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To capture your cat when it's angry or upset, first put on a long-sleeved hoodie or sweatshirt to protect your arms from scratching or biting. Try to shut your cat into one room, so it has fewer options for escape. Then, sit near your cat and talk to it in a calm voice to relax it. Once it seems relaxed, throw a blanket or a large bath towel over it and quickly scoop it into your arms so it can't escape. Free its head and hold it against your chest until it calms down.
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Protect yourself from bites and scratches. Wear long sleeves to prevent your cat from breaking through your skin. Thicker fabrics like a hoodie, sweatshirt, or flannel will protect you better. Even with long sleeves you may still get bites or scratches. Bites and scratches may hurt even if they don't break the skin. Secure the cat into one room. Start by closing the doors to empty rooms so that your cat has fewer options for escape. It's best to be as calm as possible as you close the doors so that the cat doesn't pick up on what you are doing. Try to corral your cat into a room with less furniture or items that are easy to move. If your cat is currently calm but will become upset as you try to administer its medicine, see if the cat will let you pick it up and carry it into a small room with few places to hide. You can shut the door and use that room as a secured location. This method should only be used with cats that know you and are uninjured. Remove places to hide. Put smaller items like chairs and side tables out in the hall or in a closet. Close the closet door, and block off the space leading under larger furniture to the best of your ability. You may not be able to block off a bed, but you should be able to prevent your cat from getting under dressers, nightstands, or entertainment centers. Get a heavy towel or blanket. Your towel should be long enough to fully encase the cat but not so long that you may fumble with it as you try to wrap it around the cat. A large bath towel is a great option. Using a heavier towel will help you control the cat better because it weighs the cat down when you put the towel over it, plus the towel's thickness will prevent scratching. Talk to the cat. Before you try to catch it, sit near your cat and speak in a calm voice to show your cat that you aren't a threat. Try to minimize the stress in the situation, which should help calm your kitty. Throw the towel or blanket over your cat. Once your cat calms down or walks into an open position, cover it with the blanket and scoop it into your arms. Move quickly because cats have fast reflexes and can easily out-maneuver a slow human. Wrap your cat in the blanket. Make a cat burrito by sliding one end of your towel or blanket under the cat and then securing with the other end. Your cat will likely squirm and cry, but don't let it go. This is a normal reaction, and letting go will only make it harder for you to capture your cat a second time. Hold your cat against your body. The cat will calm down more quickly if it's pressed against the warmth of your body, plus you will be able to maintain a better grasp as it tries to wiggle free. Free your cat’s head. Your cat needs to be able to breathe, and keeping it's head free will also lower its anxiety. If you need to give it medicine, you will need access to its mouth and throat. Put the medicine in the cat's mouth, hold the mouth shut, and rub the cat's throat to help the medicine go down. Don’t let go once you have a grasp on it. If you get your hands on the cat, it's better to hold on even if the cat has the upper hand. If it gets away, catching it again will be nearly impossible because it knows what you're trying to do. Release the cat from the blanket as soon as possible. Find other ways to give medication to your cat. If you are trying to catch the cat so that you can give it an oral medication, you might try hiding the pill in food, such as a cat of tuna. If this does not work, contact your vet. Let them know how difficult it is to give the medicine to your cat. Depending on your cat's prescription, they may be able to inject the medication at their office or give you a topical gel. Get the cat used to the pet carrier. If you know that you will need to load your cat into a pet carrier in the near future, put the carrier out where the cat can see and explore it. Not only will the cat get used to the carrier, but it might go in on its own to check it out. Give your cat treats for going in the carrier, or leave food and treats inside for your cat to find. Once your cat starts to go inside the pet carrier, close the door for a few minutes. When you open it again, give your cat treats and pets to reward it for getting into the carrier. When your cat starts entering the carrier on its own, carry your pet around for a few minutes to get them used to it. If you don't have time to get your cat used to the pet carrier, set the carrier in one of your cat's favorite spots and put fragrant food like tuna fish inside the pet carrier to make it interesting to the cat. Use cat pheromones. You can buy pheromones that have a calming effect on cats. Spray the pheromones on your pet carrier to help lower your cat's anxiety. You could use the pheromones while you're getting the cat used to the carrier and on the day you need to travel with the cat. Use a laser pointer. Get your cat to chase the red dot into its pet carrier. Spend a few moments playing with the cat first, allowing it to get focused on catching the dot. The cat will forget about the carrier and run right into it. This works best if your cat enjoys playing with a laser pointer. You will have more success with a larger crate or a crate with a top opening, as it could be difficult for you to land the dot inside a small case. Make a cat burrito. If your cat is still reluctant, then you will need to first wrap it up in a towel. Prepare your carrier by opening the door and placing it on a stable surface near your cat. Follow the instructions for using a towel or a blanket in the method above. Once your cat is wrapped like a burrito, slide the cat into the pet carrier tail first. Try to loosen the towel once the cat is in the carrier, but don't let it escape because it will be much harder to catch a second time. If your cat is really upset, close the door of the carrier and allow it to calm down for a moment before loosening the towel. The cat may be able to get out of the towel without any assistance. Carry your pet carrier against your chest. You cat's experience inside the carrier will be better if you hold the carrier against your chest than if you swing it at your side. Keeping your kitty happy while it's in the carrier will make it easier to catch it next time. When you're carrying the pet carrier, cover it so that your cat can't see the world flashing by. Remove the cover while the carrier is stationary. Feed the cat. Feral cats are usually hungry, so putting out food can make even the wildest cats lower their defenses. Before you can trap the cat, you'll need to get it used to coming to your trapping spot. Put out food in the same place and at the same time each day so that the cat visits regularly. If there are more than one cat, make sure that there is enough food so that they don't fight. You will also want to provide water so that the cat won't be dehydrated. Train the cat to enter a trap using food. Place your trap in the feeding location. Start by placing the food outside of the trap and slowly move the food into the trap. Continue until the food is in the back of the cage with the cat willingly getting in to eat it. Give the cat a week or two of feedings to get used to the trap so that it won't be afraid of it. Prop the door of the trap open so that the cat can move in and out freely. One trap option is a trip-plate trap. In a trip-plate trap, the open door is triggered shut by a mechanism connected to the food plate. These traps eliminate the need for the trapper to have good timing because the trigger shuts the door. Drop traps are commonly used to trap cats. These traditional traps include a box held up by a stick that the trapper will pull out from a distance. Drop traps are a good option if the cat has learned how to avoid triggering a trip-plate trap. Stick to the same time and place schedule as before. Watch the trap while it's out to make sure that cats don't get accidentally trapped or harmed. Set the trap. Once the cat is used to entering the trap to eat, set the trigger plate so that the door will shut once the cat is inside. Stop feeding the cat so that it’s hungry. If you're still having trouble catching the cat, you can wait a day or two between feedings so that the cat is more likely to be hungry. After the two day withdrawal period, place a trap with food inside in the normal feeding spot. Most cats will go into the trap to get the food. Continue to give the cat water while you're withdrawing food so that the cat won't dehydrate and will keep coming to the feeding spot. If the cat still doesn't go in the trap, try a more enticing entrée, such as real chicken or tuna fish. You can also try disguising the trap in a bush.
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Protect yourself from bites and scratches. Secure the cat into one room. Remove places to hide. Get a heavy towel or blanket. Talk to the cat. Throw the towel or blanket over your cat. Wrap your cat in the blanket. Hold your cat against your body. Free your cat’s head. Don’t let go once you have a grasp on it. Find other ways to give medication to your cat. Get the cat used to the pet carrier. Use cat pheromones. Use a laser pointer. Make a cat burrito. Carry your pet carrier against your chest. Feed the cat. Train the cat to enter a trap using food. Set the trap. Stop feeding the cat so that it’s hungry.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Yourself-Emotionally-Numb
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How to Make Yourself Emotionally Numb
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To make yourself emotionally numb to help you get through extremely trying times, avoid people, places, or things that may trigger you to feel worse. In addition to avoiding triggers, distract yourself with an activity that requires your focus, like playing a video game, going to a concert, exercising, or counting down from 100 in increments of 7. If you still feel yourself getting upset or worked up, take deep breaths to become calm. Another method to help you numb your emotions is to get a good night's sleep. Sleeplessness can make you feel more emotional, so be sure to get at least 8 hours of rest each night to help keep your emotions in check.
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Recognize that numbing yourself comes at a cost. Studies show that repressing negative emotions can deplete your psychological resources, making it more difficult for you to handle stress and make good decisions. This means that numbing yourself from emotional pain might hurt your resilience or even your ability to remember events. Only numb yourself if it is truly necessary for you to get through your daily life. An effective alternative to numbing yourself is to work through your emotional pain by reframing it and focusing on more positive emotions. For example, you might want to numb yourself to an embarrassing incident that happened to you at work. However, maybe you can try to see that the incident is not humiliating, but rather quite funny. This is commonly known as cognitive reappraisal and, while not the same as emotional numbness, can produce a similar desired effect. Be aware that feelings of total or long-term numbness might be an indication of mental health disorders such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) or clinical depression. If you feel constantly lost, numb, and hopeless, you should see your doctor or therapist as soon as possible. Avoid people, settings, and events you dislike. The easiest way for you to numb your emotional response is to control your surroundings. Make sure that you are not triggering extreme emotional responses in the first place. If you know that certain people, places, and activities bring out the worst in you, try to stay away from them as much as possible. Take control over situations you dislike. Sometimes you have to be around people you dislike or perform tasks you hate. If you cannot avoid the things that cause you emotional pain, find ways to take control over them. Do not view yourself as a helpless victim: find as much agency as you can in the situation. Simply reminding yourself that you always have a choice can help you get through emotional times relatively unscathed. For example: If you get stressed out studying for tests the night before the exam, try studying for the exam two nights before instead. Then you can relax the night before the exam. If you hate going to parties because there are too many people, ask one or two close friends to attend it with you. Seek them out if you need to get away from the crowd and have a more private conversation. Distract yourself. When you feel your emotions getting in your way, stop what you are doing immediately and do something else instead. Try to do an activity that will require you to focus all of your mental and emotional attention on it. By distracting yourself, you will be able to process your emotions later, when you are more likely to be calm and reasonable. But for now, don't worry about processing your emotional state: simply change your mood by changing your activity. Some good activities include: Playing a video game Watching a movie Engaging in your favorite hobby Going to a concert or comedy show Exercising Counting down from 100 in increments of 7 Focusing on finding a color, such as blue, in your surroundings Noticing how your feet feel on the ground Give yourself technology breaks. Technology can lead to more intense emotions: by remaining plugged in, you are exposing yourself to added work stress, life stress, and feelings of helplessness. You can make yourself calmer and happier instantly by quitting social media sites. Take control over your emotional life by limiting the amount of time you spend on the internet. In order to limit your internet use, you can: Check email at work only--never at home Turn your phone off in the evenings Turn off social media notifications Take down your social media profiles Take a break from the internet during weekends Act neutral, even if you do not feel that way. According to the Facial Feedback Hypothesis, you can change your emotional state simply by changing your facial expression. In other words: by pretending to feel a certain way, you can actually begin feeling that way for real. If you want to be emotionally numb, act emotionally numb. This might be difficult during times of stress, but with some practice it will soon become natural. Stay neutral by: Maintaining a cool, deadpan expression Keeping your lips neutral, in neither a smile nor a frown Speaking in low tones at a low volume Remaining terse by keeping your sentences brief and to the point Maintaining eye contact with a calm, blank stare Tell yourself that negative emotions are all in your brain. Tell yourself that negative emotions are not objective facts: you are never forced to feel emotional pain. Remember that emotional pain comes from your own mind. This means that you can rise above many negative emotions such as fear, anxiety, and anger. When a negative emotion threatens to emerge, simply dismiss it with the mantra: "This is only in my mind." This is an essential component of mindfulness. Rehearse situations that might cause you emotional pain in the future. In addition to armoring yourself against emotional pain you feel in the present, you can also use mindfulness techniques to prepare yourself for future emotional pain. Think about events in the near future that might cause you distress, such as a stressful exam, a potential fight with your girlfriend, or a difficult task at work. Imagine a calm, unemotional response to each of these future events, and practice overcoming these negative emotions. Soon you will inure yourself to these strong emotions, and you will be better equipped to handle yourself calmly. Pay attention to your emotional state. Every day, perform a few periodic "mental check-ins" to determine your emotional well-being at that specific time. Even when you are not sad or upset, being mindful of what you are feeling and why will help you understand your instinctive emotional responses to everyday life. Eventually, your mindfulness will allow you to control your emotional responses more effectively. When you perform your "mental check-in," ask yourself the following questions: What am I feeling in this moment? Am I feeling a single, overwhelming emotion, or a combination of emotions? Simply giving your emotions a label can help you view them more objectively. Why am I feeling this way? Are my emotions due to internal factors (such as my own fears) or external factors (such as when somebody yells at me)? Do I like the way I am feeling now? Perhaps you are feeling joyful or grateful about life and want to foster these emotions. But perhaps you are feeling anxious or nervous and do not want to experience these emotions in the future. What can I do to control my feelings in the future? Ask yourself if you can encourage your positive emotions while discouraging or even dismissing your negative ones. How can you structure your life so that you are the one controlling your emotions--not letting your emotions control you? Don't beat yourself up for showing emotions. Sometimes your emotional armor might crack, and you might find yourself expressing emotions you hoped not to express. Perhaps you cried at work or couldn't hide your distress at school. Tell yourself that this happens to everybody, and try to learn from the experience. Some ways to help you forgive yourself include: Focus on your future, not the present. Ask yourself whether your current failure has taught you any lessons about how you will react in the future. Pat yourself on the back for learning from a difficult situation. Tell yourself that resilience only comes from failures. You cannot be emotionally strong right away: you will have to practice it slowly, over time. Look at this as one step on your journey to controlling your emotions. Keep things in perspective. Remember that the person who cares the most about your emotional state is you. Your colleagues, fellow students, friends, and family members will soon forget if you had a minor outburst. Remember that this is not the end of the world: it is a small blip in your life. Take time before reacting. If something happens to upset you, try to remain calm and blank for a few minutes. Breathe deeply and count to ten. Once you've gotten past the immediate emotional response, you will be able to respond to the situation calmly and rationally instead of with pure emotion. Keep a diary. One great way to keep your emotions from taking over your life is to let them spill out... on paper. Expel your emotions by writing them down in a journal. This will allow you to forget about your emotional state and move on with your life. Studies show that people who write about their mood changes in journals feel like they have greater control over their emotional states. Commit to writing in your journal at predetermined points during the day or during those times when you think you might be getting emotional. Pay particular attention to whether you think your emotional reaction is one that a mentally healthy person would share or whether your reaction is exaggerated somehow. Be sure to ask yourself whether you have felt this way in the past. This will help you find a pattern in your emotional state. If something upsetting happens to you, tell yourself that you will simply write about it later in your diary. This will help prevent you from reacting emotionally in the moment. Take deep breaths. Deep breathing exercises will help you maintain your calm demeanor. They are also a great coping mechanism when you feel your emotions rising to the surface. Breathe in through your nose for five seconds, hold for five seconds, then release through your mouth for five seconds. Repeat as necessary until you have regained your composure. Do vigorous aerobic activity for 30 minutes. Exercise can help distract you from painful emotions and will also allow you to be a calmer, more rational person. Find your favorite sport, exercise, or physical activity. Whenever you feel emotions begin to bubble up, put on your gym shoes and get your heart pumping. Soon you will forget about your emotional response. Some excellent physical outlets include: Running or jogging Bicycling Swimming Team sports such as softball or soccer Martial arts Kickboxing Dancing Avoid substance use. It might be tempting to use substances in order to dull your emotions. However, many drugs and alcohol also work to lower your inhibitions, leading you to have emotional reactions of even greater intensity. Even caffeine can trigger a stress reaction. Keep yourself calm and emotionally neutral by abstaining from drugs, alcohol, and caffeine. An important exception to this is if you require psychiatric medication for a mental health disorder. If this is the case, follow your doctor's instructions at all times. Get a good night's rest. Sleeplessness can make it difficult to handle your emotions neutrally and calmly. Be sure that you sleep at least 8 hours each night. If you have a hard time sleeping, be sure that you: Avoid blue light, which is emitted by electronics, for at least 3 hours before bed Keep your bedroom cool and well-ventilated Have a comfortable mattress Use a white noise machine to drown out ambient noise Avoid caffeine, alcohol, and heavy meals, especially in the evenings Maintain a social network. Sometimes feelings of anxiety or depression might make you want to isolate yourself. However, your social ties are one of the keys to maintaining a healthy emotional balance. Talk to your friend and family members when you begin to feel overwhelmed, and let them help you process your emotions. While is isn't making yourself emotionally numb per se, you will be able to recover more quickly. Take positive action. Sometimes you might get anxious when there is a situation that you cannot control. Rather than stewing about it, you should try to take decisive action in order to improve the situation. Resist the urge to detach: that will simply make you feel more stressed out for longer. For example, if you are stressed out about an upcoming exam, don't try to forget about it. Instead, tell yourself that you will study for 20 minutes a day: that will help you overcome your anxiety. Tell yourself that stress is only temporary. It is important to remember that most stressful events will be over soon: they do not last forever. Whether it is a party you don't want to attend, an exam you don't want to take, or a work project you despise, tell yourself that the stressful situation will pass. Do not feel like your whole life is wrapped up in one moment of stress. Take a break. Sometimes you are better equipped to deal with stress after you have allowed yourself a brief time to recover. If you are beginning to feel completely overwhelmed, spend just 20-30 minutes taking a walk, talking to a friend, or listening to your favorite album. Return to the stressful situation once you feel calmer and ready to face it head-on. Just changing your environment for as little as 30 minutes can be helpful. For example, you could go outside. You will be especially relaxed if you engage in an activity that involves being social (such as getting a coffee with friends) or being outside (such as walking around a lake). These can be more effective than television at getting you calmed down and rejuvenated. Try muting your emotions when you're facing a challenge. Heightened emotions can sometimes get in the way when you're trying to deal with a high-stress situation. For example, if you've got to give a big speech or presentation, fear might cloud your ability to think clearly and execute your delivery. Knowing how to mute that sense of fear can come in handy when you have to overcome challenges at work and school. Put your emotions temporarily aside when you have a decision to make. Emotions have a role to play in decision-making, but sometimes it's important to set them aside and assess other factors. For example, maybe you feel devastated after a breakup and are tempted to move to a new city so you don't have to see your ex. If you're able to see beyond the sadness and weigh other factors, you might be less likely to drop everything and leave. Numb your emotions when you're in a situation you can't control. Numbing your emotions can be a useful defense mechanism. Maybe there's a bully at school, or you have a sibling with whom you don't get along. If you're in a situation that's tough to change, you can protect yourself by temporarily shutting off your feelings to help you get through the day. Avoid cutting yourself off from your emotions too often. We feel emotions for a reason. They are essential to navigating the world and, ultimately, surviving with our mental health intact. If you routinely numb your emotions, you're cutting yourself off from experiences that your mind needs to feel. Fear, sadness, despair, and other emotions that don't feel good to experience are nevertheless just as important as joy and excitement. If you don't let yourself feel sad, it'll be harder and harder to feel happy. Rather than numbing your emotions, learn to get in touch with them and use them to your advantage.
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Recognize that numbing yourself comes at a cost. Avoid people, settings, and events you dislike. Take control over situations you dislike. Distract yourself. Give yourself technology breaks. Act neutral, even if you do not feel that way. Tell yourself that negative emotions are all in your brain. Rehearse situations that might cause you emotional pain in the future. Pay attention to your emotional state. Don't beat yourself up for showing emotions. Take time before reacting. Keep a diary. Take deep breaths. Do vigorous aerobic activity for 30 minutes. Avoid substance use. Get a good night's rest. Maintain a social network. Take positive action. Tell yourself that stress is only temporary. Take a break. Try muting your emotions when you're facing a challenge. Put your emotions temporarily aside when you have a decision to make. Numb your emotions when you're in a situation you can't control. Avoid cutting yourself off from your emotions too often.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Reprogram-Your-Brain
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How to Reprogram Your Brain
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To reprogram your brain, spend a week writing down your thoughts as they pop into your head. After the week has passed, analyze the results and look for trends. For example, you might find you are overly negative, too critical, or maybe just unsure of yourself. Then, decide how you would like to think instead and practice consciously replacing negative thoughts with more positive ones. If you find yourself thinking "I'm not good enough," make a mental list of your good qualities. Keep doing this until it becomes natural.
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Begin to monitor your thoughts on a daily basis. The beauty of human evolution is that we've developed two selves: the primal one that does and the evolved one that monitors. You are able to observe yourself and your thoughts 24/7. With every thought that raises a red flag, stop for a second and think about it. Was it negative? Destructive? What triggered it? Does it seem logical? Addictive? You will notice a pattern to your thoughts as you begin practicing self-awareness. Write down your thoughts as they spring up. This will make it easier to see what your pattern is. They could be self-deprecating, pessimistic, worrying, anything. It's also a great way of realizing the ridiculous chatter in your head and getting rid of it, too. Define your thought patterns. After a week or so, take a hard look at that pattern. Maybe most of your thoughts are negative, you are critical of yourself or others, or you experience unnecessary thoughts that aren't important or beneficial to you. For each person it will be different. Once you identify this pattern, you can go about stopping it. When you have a realization about yourself, it can literally stop you in your tracks – and that's when the change can begin. After all, you can't get to a certain place if you don't know where you're going. Realize that everything is a part of a larger cycle. Many of us are guilty of thinking that our feelings lead to our actions, and that's it. We're powerless and can't help but feel these things and act these ways as a result. In reality, that couldn't be further from the truth. Your beliefs and thoughts determine your feelings, which in turn determine your actions, which in turn give you life results. These life results shape your beliefs and thoughts, which determine your feelings...and the cycle goes on from there. When you think of it as a cycle it's easier to see that even just changing one of these factors can overhaul the system. The other part of that belief up top that isn't right is that we're powerless. No, no, no – in fact, you're the only one that has the power. These thoughts, behaviors, these life results, they're all yours, and you can change them. Change just one even, and the rest will fall into place. Create a space between your thoughts and actions. This cycle is a cycle, sure, but it can be slowed down. When you start feeling that pattern creep up, stop and breathe. Try not to be reactive. How would you prefer to react? What positive thought can you put in your head instead? For example, let's say you're watching TV and you see an ad with a beautiful woman. You think to yourself, "I could never be her," or "I could never get her." Stop for a second, and finish that thought better. Think, "But I have good qualities x, y, and z," or "I'm going to use this as motivation to start working out and feel better about myself, because I've decided to seek out happiness, not negativity." Realize that for all your actions and thoughts you are getting some reward. Worrying constantly? You probably feel like you're covering your bases or not getting your hopes up. Deflating your sense of self? It probably feels safe being down in the dumps, so your hopes can't crash down around you. Think about what you're getting out of your thoughts? Is what your getting really worth it? Be mindful of the words you use in your mind and what you say to others. Your words can hurt people – including yourself – and this can only have a negative impact upon yourself and your resulting behaviors and thoughts. If they seem to crop up, tell yourself to stop. Just stop. Divert your attention to something more positive that keeps you on track. If you express positivity and love, that is what you will receive in return. It benefits all and creates good energy. If you go in thinking something is impossible, it likely will be. If you open your mind and think you are capable of whatever you're putting your mind to, you just may be. Sometimes we all get stuck playing tapes in our head. That tape may say, "I'm ugly," or "I'm worthless," or "I'm depressed," or any number of unhelpful things. Hit stop on that tape and put in a new one. What's this one say? Isn't it a breath of fresh air? Always be mindful of that tape and if it slips back in. And remember: you can always take it out. Choose your reactive behaviors. As a child you are told to think, behave and to adopt certain belief systems which often shape the type of person you become. Some fears and insecurities you developed can also be carried through into your adulthood. Often, we get stuck into action-reaction patterns, not realizing we could interpret the situation and react any number of ways. When you have a negative reaction, this is an opportunity to assess it. If something infuriates you, why? Would other people you know react the same way? How would they react differently? How would they react better? Ask yourself why you react in this way. Are you getting anything out of it? What's a way you could react instead? Choose to develop your own thought patterns and beliefs that ring true to who you really are, want to be, and are actively working toward. Develop new thoughts to create these new, positive habits. You've identified your bad thoughts, you've stopped them, and you've replaced them with good ones. Now you just have to be persistent and repeat these new thoughts as often as possible. It will become habit, just like your old thoughts became habit. As long as you stay mindful and thinking it's possible, it will happen. That's what brains do. You may find that it helps to keep a journal, meditate, and to talk about this practice with your loved ones. It makes this whole process more concrete, tangible, and a part of your life – not just some crazy whim you have once in a while, when you remember. You'll probably find that other people are inspired by resolve and wish to imitate your dedication to self-improvement. Control the urge. Sometimes there are not just thoughts that need to change; there are also bad habits and addictions (which are sometimes one in the same, really). If you have a habit you need to break, whether it's eating too much or being dependent on a drug, start deconditioning yourself by exposing yourself to your trigger and then resisting. It'll be tough, but it'll get easier with each time. And in this manner, you're controlling it. When you control it, you feel a lot better. Let's say you're trying to quit overeating. In this example, you're at home, and it's around the time you would normally snack. Expose yourself to an aroma or a picture of a food and don't crave. It can be for 30 seconds or it could be for 5 minutes, whatever you think you can handle. The important aspect here is to do it in a normal situation. Plenty of addicts go to rehab and do fine, but eventually relapse into the bad habits. Keep your conditions as normal as possible to make them the most effective. Expose yourself to your triggers in different circumstances. If you're an alcoholic who's trying to quit, it's a good idea to "practice quitting" in a number of different environments and in different situations. Take it one step at a time. Get home from work and don't have that glass of wine. In time, that urge will fall away. Then, move to your local bar, and resist there. That'll become normal, too. Next step, parties. You need to face the trigger in whatever form it can take and learn to conquer it. It's a good idea to do it in different intervals, too. Sometimes cravings will come on stronger, and those are the ones that present the most risk. But if you vary up your reconditioning sessions, your body will start resisting the urge at all times, not just cyclically. Go through the motions, while still resisting. Once you've gotten this far, you're almost home free. Now it's time to essentially mime your habit and still not do it. An alcoholic might sit at a bar, pour a drink, and not drink it. An over-eater might cook a meal for their family and watch them enjoy it. When you hit this stage, you officially have power over your mind and your habit. Congratulations! Going through the motions makes them much more real than just thinking about the craving or viewing it. It's interactive on a completely different level and requires an intense amount of willpower, but it's totally and completely possible. Come up with a positive, alternative response. You can't just take something and replace it with nothing. Your brain needs some type of reward, after all. Heck, you deserve it after all this hard work. So while you're sitting at the bar not drinking, have your favorite non-alcoholic drink. Not eating? Try a refreshing iced tea. Traffic jam and you're not freaking out? Pop in your favorite CD and jam. Anything that makes you feel good (but isn't a negative habit) will work. This can go for thoughts, too. Let's say your boss yells at you and your natural response is to either cry and freak out or get very, very angry. Instead, you do something you enjoy. You take a walk, call up a friend, or start reading your favorite book. Eventually, anger won't be a response anymore. Your brain just won't recognize it because you've rendered it extinct. Now, it's this new, positive thing you do. You win. Meditate. Though it may not sound like your cup of tea, the benefits of meditation are pretty incredible – and they definitely make it easier to be more mindful and self-aware. What's more, they also help you stay calm and focused, making this whole positivity thing much, much easier. Those old habits may fall by the wayside when your brain is in the right place. Not into meditation? That's okay. What calms you and centers you? Reading a good book? Playing video games? Cooking? Then do that. As long as it puts you in that metaphorical zen-garden type of place, it's good. Realize that there's no value in negative thoughts. "Wanting to diet" is one thing, but believing that your current eating habits aren't working is another. It's pretty clear to see that the person who "wants to diet" isn't going to get anywhere. On the other hand, the person who earnestly believes that their current eating habits aren't working likely will see success. To actually reprogram your brain, you have to honestly believe that negative thoughts and habits hold no value to you. When you believe this, better actions will follow. You probably know that negative thoughts lead to negative actions and negative patterns. They cloud the silver lining of life, and just seem to cultivate unhappiness. It shouldn't be hard to see they have no value, right? Where do they get you? Where do they get any of us? Think of your brain as a computer. Your brain is plastic and totally moldable. That's a fact. Neuroplasticity, or brain plasticity is the term for your brain changing as it has new experiences and new thoughts. In short, your brain is like a computer. It takes information in and uses it. You believe in the power of your computer, so you should believe in the power of your brain, too. Another good reason to think of your brain as a computer is because it helps you see that any number of outcomes are possible at any given time. You input some information into your brain (like you would a computer), it sorts through it (like a computer does), and it comes out with a solution (like a computer). However, if you change the way you sort the information or how the information comes in or even what information comes in, you'll get a different result – just like a computer. Think outside of the box and you may come up with a completely different operating system. One that is way better than the previous system you were running on! Be convinced yourself, without any doubt that you see change. This goes hand in hand with the idea that negative thoughts hold no value. Your mind has to be in the right place for your brain to start changing, or being reprogrammed. After all, "I want to lose weight" and "I believe I can lose weight" are two totally different thoughts. In short, you have to believe in yourself. You are capable of change. And you'll get it done, too. This belief can help you get started on the positive thinking train. When you believe that something is possible, you will see more opportunities in front of you. A light sort of clicks on, illuminating your world in a golden glow. All of a sudden, things are brighter. Things are looking up. You start to believe that you can do this, and then you do!. Challenge every thought that comes into your head. As you get better and better at this brain reprogramming thing, start taking your thoughts and challenging them. Is what your thought or belief? Is it your thought or was it handed to you? If you come up with thoughts that are just beliefs and that aren't yours, challenge them. What's a better thought? What is a more efficient thought? What is a more positive thought? Which thought of others would get you closer to being who you want to be? Our cultures tend to "grow us up" in specific ways. We're taught to think, learn, act, and generally operate in specific, acceptable ways. It's up to you to take that neocortex of yours (your highly-evolved brain) and put it to work. What actually is best for you? What goes with your values? Get the app for that. There's an app for everything, and that includes positive thinking and brain retraining. Stress-Free Life and I Can Do It are just two examples of technology that can help to keep your mind in the game and firing on all motivation, positive cylinders. If writing in a journal doesn't appeal to you, this may be the next best thing. We all need little shortcuts to get us to our best selves. Whether it's an app, a self-help book, notes on our fridge, or a journal, they all can help us to keep us in line. If you really want to be successful at reprogramming your brain, it's a good idea to look into more tangible things to keep on the right track.
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Begin to monitor your thoughts on a daily basis. Define your thought patterns. Realize that everything is a part of a larger cycle. Create a space between your thoughts and actions. Be mindful of the words you use in your mind and what you say to others. Choose your reactive behaviors. Develop new thoughts to create these new, positive habits. Control the urge. Expose yourself to your triggers in different circumstances. Go through the motions, while still resisting. Come up with a positive, alternative response. Meditate. Realize that there's no value in negative thoughts. Think of your brain as a computer. Be convinced yourself, without any doubt that you see change. Challenge every thought that comes into your head. Get the app for that.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Give-Yourself-a-Manicure
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How to Give Yourself a Manicure
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To give yourself a manicure, first cut and file your nails. Then, buff your nails with a nail buffer to smooth out any ridges. Fill a bowl with warm water and add a few drops of hand soap. Soak your hands for 5 minutes to clean them. Next, dry your hands off and use an orange stick or a cuticle pusher to gently push your cuticles back. Massage some lotion into your hands so they're nice and soft, then let the lotion soak in for 15 minutes. Now, apply a base coat to each of your nails and wait for it to dry. Then, apply the first coat of nail polish in the color you've chosen for your manicure. Let the first coat dry, then apply a second coat and let it dry as well. Clean up the edges while you work by using a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover. Finally, apply a clear top coat to your nails and let it dry.
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Get your supplies together. To give yourself a gorgeous manicure, make sure you have all the right supplies. You might have to spend a bit up front, but next time you want to paint your nails, you'll already be covered. Get the following products: Nail polish remover Cotton balls or cotton swabs Cuticle trimmer Nail buffer Nail trimmers Nail file Cuticle or hand cream Nail polish Base coat Top coat Set up your workspace. Nail polish and remover can damage many surfaces such as cloth, wood finish and plastic. Wear an expendable t-shirt and no valuable accessories, sit at a desk or table, and protect it with scrap paper (not newsprint, which smudges). Make sure the table itself and anything near it is not particularly valuable or important to keep perfect because there might be a spatter or spill soaking through. You might not want to work near a computer, for instance. Remove your old nail polish. Use nail polish remover and cotton balls or swabs. Some kinds of nail polish remover may dry the areas on your nails and around them. You may wish to find one that doesn't do this as much, but do not be concerned unless you have a severe allergic reaction. If you have and wish to keep fake nails, such as acrylic, choose a polish that will not remove them, and don't let it soak much. Unless you use it once a month or less, don't use a nail polish remover with acetone in it. Though acetone will make removing the nail polish easier, it can damage the nails themselves. Cut and file your nails. Use nail clippers and trim your nails. Don't cut them too short; you should be able to see at least a little of the white tip still, all the way across. Using a nail file, file the nail and create a smooth and clean shape. Gently drag the file across the nail, rather than pushing it. Excessive force or sawing back and forth will weaken the nails and cause them to break. Pivot the hand with the file through each stroke to make a smooth curve rather than angles. Do not file them too short: just clean up any points or roughness left by the clippers. If you want to remove fake nails, perhaps because they look odd from having grown out too far, here's how to do that. Do not round the corners down into the sides of the nail bed. This can cause the nail to become ingrown. Be particularly careful with the big toe, which, perhaps due to shoes, is more prone to ingrowing. Buff your nails. Using a white block of a stick-type nail buffer, or a pad-type nail buffer and buffing powder, buff the surface of the nail a little bit to even out the surface and to smooth out ridges. Remember not to buff too much; thinning it too much will weaken it. Perfect edge-to-edge flatness is not practical or necessary. A soft, flexible buffer will more easily buff the sides of the nail along with the middle. You may wish to buff your nails after pushing back the cuticles if there is some residue where the cuticles used to cover, in order to scrape or grind it off in the process. Being thin, soft, and not firmly attached, it should come off easily. Soak your nails. Get a bowl or stopper the sink and fill it with warm (not hot!) water and a few drops of soap. Soak your hands only for a few minutes. The water and soap will help to loosen dirt, dead skin, and any dust left over from filing and buffing, and soften cuticles. Use a nail brush to gently clean your nails and the skin around them. Gently scrape under your nails if necessary to remove dirt. If you want your nails and cuticles really manageable, you can soak them in Dawn dishwasher soap. If you have dry skin or fragile nails you should not soak them; just rinse them. Don't go overboard with scraping, since you can damage your nails if you remove the white powdery substance that is actually part of your nails. Prepare your cuticles. Dry your nails and apply a cuticle cream. Using a cuticle pusher, also called an orange stick, gently push back the cuticle. Do not force them back, and never cut your cuticles. Even if the equipment is sterile, removing the cuticle can cause infection and leaves the then-less-protected margin of the skin vulnerable. Wipe off the excess cream with a tissue or towel in the direction that you pushed. A small binder clip is great for pushing back cuticles. Make sure it's clean and well-formed, without sharp edges. Fold the wire grips to lay flat against each other. Hold the clip between the thumb and forefinger or middle finger by the flat metal sides, with the grips passing between in the direction of the little finger tip; the flat back piece extending past the thumb and forefinger. Now you're ready to push back the cuticles on the other hand (switch later to do the one currently holding the clip). Apply hand cream or lotion. Take a lotion or hand cream and massage it into your hands. If you have very dry skin use an intensive lotion, if not, any lotion will do. Be sure to rub it into and around your nails and let it soak in for 30 minutes or longer. This is as well done after painting the nails and allowing them to dry thoroughly as before painting. For very dry skin, apply some greasy lotion and sleep with cheap cotton gloves over your hands to allow it to remain on and work for a long time without keeping you from productive activities. Nail polish/lacquer will not stick to nails with moisturizer on them, so take a Q-tip dipped in nail polish remover and quickly wipe the nails to remove the lotion. Wipe excess remover off promptly to mitigate nail damage. Apply the base coat. Cover the nail with a clear base coat or nail hardener. This will even out and ridges and unevenness that may still be on the nail, serve as a primer for the polish, help the polish to last longer, and keep the color from staining your nails. This is the point at which you'd apply fake nails if you like. Let the coat completely dry before proceeding. Polish your nails. Pick a nail polish that you really like. Roll the nail polish bottle between your hands for about 10 seconds. Shaking the bottle causes air bubbles in the polish and makes harder for the polish to stick to your nails. Begin painting nails using a thin coat. Dip the brush into the bottle of polish and as you remove it, gently swirl the brush around the inside rim of the bottle to remove excess polish. Slowly paint a vertical stripe down the center of your nail, followed by another stripe on either side of the first. Try to paint all the way to the edge, but it's better to leave a small margin than paint the skin on the side. Angle the brush a little forward, press gently so the bristles spread out a little into a neat curve, and drag it gently and smoothly across the nail to paint it. Do not apply a blob of paint to the nail and spread it around. Blobs or runs mean too much paint or painting too slowly; subtle ridges should smooth themselves out under gravity (self-level) but very-thin spots mean too little paint or too much pressure. Fancy designs can be difficult, so stick with simple if it's important to get a good result the first time. If there is a little bit of nail polish on your fingers or around you nail you can use a toothpick (flat, not round and pointy, is generally best) to get it off if it's still wet. If it's already dry, dip a Q-tip in nail polish remover and wipe it away, or use a nail touch up pen, sold at most drugstores. Be careful not to touch the actual nail with the Q-tip or touch up pen, or you will have to redo that nail. Let your nails dry. Try not to move your nails too much or the polish may smudge. Wait 10 to 15 minutes for the polish to dry. If you apply a second coat too soon, it will only smudge the first coat. You may be able to speed drying with a fan, but don't be overly optimistic. By blowing the fumes away, the fan will remove one reminder of continuing wetness. After the first coat has dried, apply a second coat if you'd like. This ensures the color looks rich and even. After the color coats have dried, you may add designs, by brush, airbrush , mask or stencil, decal, rhinestones, or otherwise. Skipping the base coat, or even applying only one color coat (depending on the kind of polish and application technique; some give or appear to give more even color with uneven thickness than others), will often give acceptable results. However, extra layers add a little extra to initial surface quality. Apply the top coat. Finish with a clear top coat for a hard, smooth, scratch-absorbing, chip and flake-resistant shield particularly important for designs that don't cover the entire nail, as well as adding shine. Let it dry completely. Have fun and enjoy your newly beautiful nails! . Do splatter paint nails This fun variation has the appearance of multicolored paint splatters on top of a surface color. Do ombre nails. Fade from a light color to a darker color to make your nails look intriguing and totally fashionable. Do a French manicure. This classic style emphasizes your nail's white tips while retaining the natural color of your nail bed. Add some flair. Paint a layer of glitter, crack polish, shimmer, or another pretty polish to make your manicure stand out even more. Make tiny nail art flowers. You'll need several colors in addition to your base coat to make this pretty little design. . Do the tuxedo This striking design uses two colors, giving the effect of a tuxedo against a white shirt. . Make beachy nails This cute design is a great way to celebrate the summer months. Make miniature strawberries. You'll love the effect of these tiny red berries on your nails.
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Get your supplies together. Set up your workspace. Remove your old nail polish. Cut and file your nails. Buff your nails. Soak your nails. Prepare your cuticles. Apply hand cream or lotion. Apply the base coat. Polish your nails. Let your nails dry. Apply the top coat. . Do ombre nails. Do a French manicure. Add some flair. Make tiny nail art flowers. . . Make miniature strawberries.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Your-Hair-Soft
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How to Make Your Hair Soft
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To make your hair soft, condition it every day and let it air-dry instead of using a blow dryer, since heat styling tools cause split ends that make hair feel coarse. For a big dose of moisture, coat your hair in coconut oil and leave it for at least an hour before washing it out thoroughly. You can also apply olive oil, almond oil, or aloe vera oil once a week for hydration. Remember to get regular trims, which will remove split ends that can make your hair feel rough.
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Trim split ends. Split ends are damaged strands of hair that quickly lose moisture. This damage can move all the way up your hair if not routinely cut. Have a professional hairdresser trim the ends of your hair, making sure to remove the entire damaged portion. Trim your split ends every few months, or whenever they become noticeable. Use conditioner once a day. Conditioner returns essential oils to your hair, keeping it healthy, happy, and soft. Let your hair air dry. Hot air from blow drying will dry out your hair and create split ends. Instead, pat your hair dry with a towel, then let your hair air dry. If you must use a blower, turn off the heat. Hydrate throughout the day. Just like any other part of your body, your hair needs water to stay soft and healthy. Drink at least four or five glasses of water a day. When you exercise, drink an extra 8-10 ounces (240–300 mL) of water for every hour of activity. Take hair-healthy vitamin supplements. Certain supplements, such as Omega-3 oil, fish egg phospholipids, vitamin E, and biotin improve the shine and growth of your hair. Purchase them from a local health food store and take them on a daily basis. Massage your hair with coconut oil. Warm the oil in the microwave in a small container, just enough to make the oil spreadable. Lightly dampen your hair with water. Smooth the oil with your hands from the middle of the hair shaft (near your ears) down to the ends. Leave the oil in your hair for at least one hour, or overnight if possible. Wash out the coconut oil with your normal routine of shampoo and conditioner. You may oil the roots of your hair as well, but you may require multiple washes to remove the oil afterward. Apply olive oil, almond oil, or aloe vera oil once a week. These oils are well-known home remedies for dry hair, found at your local supermarket. Simply massage the oil into your hair from the roots to the tips and leave it in for two or three hours. Put your hair in a shower cap to prevent the oil from dripping. Wash out the oil with shampoo and conditioner. Make a hair mask of avocado, olive oil, and honey as a monthly treatment. In a small bowl, whip together one ripe avocado, 2 tablespoons (30 mL) olive oil, and 2 tbsp (30 mL) honey with a whisk or hand mixer. Apply the mixture to your hair from roots to tips. Leave it on for at least two hours, once a month. Avoid using heat to straighten, curl, or style your hair. Regular use of hairdryers, flat irons, and curlers can severely damage the hair if used on a regular basis. Heat will dry out your hair, leaving it rough, dull, and damaged. Be happy with your natural color. Unfortunately, hair dyes will damage your hair and keep it from staying soft. Most hair dye pre-treatments contain ammonia, which weakens hair strands and damages follicles. Repeated dying can make your hair dry, dull and lifeless. Minimize bleaching. Try going for a darker shade of blonde, leaving more time between bleaching sessions. Bleach dries out your hair, and it can take months for it to recover. Find ways to style your hair without using damaging clips. Try using an alcohol-free gel or mousse to scrunch your hair, as opposed to straightening or curling. Do not use barrettes or anything with a hinge, as this will likely damage the hair. Bobby pins lightly sprayed with hair spray are a great alternative to keep hair in place. Only use shampoo every two or three days. When you wash your hair too often, you are stripping your hair of its natural oils. When you do wash your hair, always use conditioner afterwards to return essential oils. Don’t comb your hair while it is still wet. You hair is weak when it is still wet, so avoid brushing it for 20–30 minutes after washing.
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Trim split ends. Use conditioner once a day. Let your hair air dry. Hydrate throughout the day. Take hair-healthy vitamin supplements. Massage your hair with coconut oil. Apply olive oil, almond oil, or aloe vera oil once a week. Make a hair mask of avocado, olive oil, and honey as a monthly treatment. Avoid using heat to straighten, curl, or style your hair. Be happy with your natural color. Minimize bleaching. Find ways to style your hair without using damaging clips. Only use shampoo every two or three days. Don’t comb your hair while it is still wet.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Know-when-Makeup-Has-Expired
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How to Know when Makeup Has Expired
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To know when makeup has expired, look at its texture to see if it's dry and clumpy, which is a sign that it's probably expired. You should also pay attention to the color of the makeup since discoloration generally means it's gone bad. Additionally, toss out any makeup that develops a bad smell since it's probably not good anymore. In general, you should get rid of liquid foundations and concealers after 6 months, while powder makeup can last up to 2 years. Also, mascara and liquid eyeliner typically only stays good for 3 months.
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Store makeup in a cool, dry place. Makeup should be stored in an interior closet, such as a linen closet, away from an outside wall. This is because exposure to warmth and sun can dry out the products. Too much warmth can also cause the natural oils to separate from the rest of the product, leading the makeup to expire. Avoid storing makeup in the bathroom. Although storing your makeup in the bathroom can be convenient, it is not necessarily the best idea. The bathroom has high levels of airborne bacteria that can contaminate your makeup and beauty products. The high exposure to bacteria can cause makeup products to expire sooner than they ordinarily would. Store makeup in your closet or a linen closet outside of the bathroom to keep it cool and dry. You can store makeup in a dresser, set of drawers, or chest as an alternative. Clean makeup brushes regularly. An important aspect preserving makeup is keeping your makeup brushes clean. This will prevent bacteria from spreading and cross-contaminating your other products. Wet the bristles of your brush. Gently rub in brush cleaner or shampoo. Brush cleaners can be purchased at Sephora, Ulta, or drugstores in your area. Rinse the brush. Squeeze the excess water from the bristles of the brush. Set the brush aside on a towel to air dry. It is important to let the brush dry on its side so that the water doesn't get into the glue and loosen the bristles at the base of the handle. Brushes used for concealer and foundation should be cleaned at least once a week. Clean brushes that are used for eye makeup at least twice a month. All other brushes can be washed once a month. Pour out instead of dipping in. When using liquid makeup, pour a small amount of makeup, as much as you intend to use, onto a makeup mixing palette. This will keep the bacteria out of the makeup bottle. Set the mixing palette on a flat surface. Pour a small amount of the desired product onto the surface of the palette, taking care not to set it too close to the edge. Dip your makeup brush into the product and apply it to your face (or wherever you are using the makeup). Learn the shelf life of face makeup. Generally speaking, liquid foundation and concealers last for six months and the powder versions can last for two years. This is because bacteria cannot grow where there is no water, and powder makeup does not generally contain water. Understand expiration dates for eye makeup. Similar to foundations, liquid and powder products have different expiration dates with powder makeup generally lasting much longer than liquids. Since these products come into contact with your eyes, which can be sensitive and vulnerable to bacteria, they should not be used past their expiration dates. Mascara should be tossed after three months, due to it being an ideal environment for bacteria to grow. The tube is a dark, moist environment, which can foster the growth of harmful bacteria. Liquid and gel eyeliners should be thrown out after three months. Cream eyeshadows should be used for no longer than six months. Pencil eyeliner and powder eye shadows can be tossed after two years. Know when to toss lipstick. Lipstick and gloss can last for two years and lip liners can last even longer than that, since sharpening them removes the old surface. Liquid lipstick expires after six months, due to the close contact with the mouth. Record expiration dates. When you purchase makeup, use a permanent marker to write the date that you purchased the makeup on the outside of the packaging. You can also use a notebook to write down the purchase date or use a spreadsheet to record purchase history. This will help you keep track of what you purchased and when, preventing you from accidentally using expired makeup. Toss makeup that has changed texture. It is often apparent when makeup has expired, as it often dries out and/or becomes clumpy. When this happens, the makeup will not apply as smoothly. Be sure to dispose of makeup that changes texture, as it can affect the quality of your skin due to the breakdown of the chemicals and the bacteria that grows. Do not keep makeup that has changed color. If you have noticed a change of color in your makeup, dispose of that particular item. Over time, the product can break down and separate, causing it to change color. When this happens, it is not likely that it will apply smoothly anyway, so you should be inclined to get rid of it. Throw out makeup that has an odd smell. Any makeup that has an odd smell should be an immediate red flag. An unusual smell generally indicates that the chemical composition of the product has changed and that it has expired. Periodically sniff your makeup to ensure that it does not have an unusual smell. If it does, toss it immediately.
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Store makeup in a cool, dry place. Avoid storing makeup in the bathroom. Clean makeup brushes regularly. Pour out instead of dipping in. Learn the shelf life of face makeup. Understand expiration dates for eye makeup. Know when to toss lipstick. Record expiration dates. Toss makeup that has changed texture. Do not keep makeup that has changed color. Throw out makeup that has an odd smell.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Magnet
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How to Make a Magnet
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To make a magnet, start by removing 1-2 inches of insulation from both ends of a copper wire. Next, wrap the wire tightly around a nail, starting about 8 inches from the end of the wire and working your way down until the nail is covered from head to tip. Wrap 1 end of the exposed wire around the positive side of a D-cell battery, then wrap the other end around the negative side. Hold the nail next to a small piece of metal to test the magnetism!
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Gather supplies. A simple temporary magnet can be made with a tiny piece of metal, such as a paperclip, and a refrigerator magnet. Gather these items as well as a smaller piece of metal, such as an earring back or a tiny nail, that you can use to test the magnetic properties of the magnetized paperclip. Experiment with different paperclip sizes, and uncoated versus coated paperclips. Gather smaller objects in a range of sizes and metals to see which ones will stick to the paperclips. Rub the magnet against the paperclip. Move it in the same direction, rather than back and forth. Use the same quick motion you'd use to light a match. Continue rubbing the paperclip with the magnet 50 times as quickly as you can. Touch the paperclip against the smaller piece of metal. Does the small piece of metal stick to the paperclip? If so, you've successfully magnetized it. If the metal won't stick to the paperclip, rub it 50 more times and try again. Try picking up other paper clips and larger objects to determine how strong the magnet is. Consider recording the length of time the paper clip stays magnetized after a certain number of rubs. Experiment with different types of metal, like pins or nails, to see which one makes the strongest, longest-lasting magnet. Gather supplies. Electromagnets are created by running an electric current through a piece of metal to create a magnetic field. This can be done on a small scale using these supplies, which are available at hardware stores: A large iron nail 3 feet of thin coated copper wire A D-cell battery Small magnetic objects, like paperclips or pins Wire strippers Masking tape Strip the ends of the wire. Use the wire strippers to remove a few centimeters of insulation from either end of the copper wire. The uninsulated ends will be wrapped around the ends of the battery. Wrap the nail. starting about 8 inches from the end of the wire, wrap the nail tightly. Each wrap should be touching the last, but don't overlap them. Continue wrapping until the nail is covered from head to tip. Make sure you wrap in the same direction down the nail. In order to create a magnetic field, the electricity must flow in the same direction. Connect the battery. Wrap one end of the exposed wire around the positive side of the battery and the other end around the negative side of the battery. Use a small piece of masking tape to secure the wire in place on both sides. Don't worry about which end of wire you attach to which end of the battery. The nail will become magnetized either way; the only difference is that its polarity will change. One side of the magnet is the north pole, and one side is the south pole. Reversing the wires will also reverse the poles. Once the battery is attached, the wires will grow hot as electricity begins passing through them, so be careful not to burn yourself. Use the magnet. Place the nail near a paperclip or another small piece of metal. Since the nail is magnetized, the metal will stick to the nail. Experiment with different sizes and weights to see how much strength your magnet has. Gather supplies. A compass works by indicating north with a magnetized needle that aligns with the earth's magnetic field. Any metal that can be magnetized can be turned into a compass. A sewing needle or straight pin is a good choice. In addition to a needle, gather these supplies to make your compass: A magnetizer. Find a magnet, a nail, or even a piece of fur to magnetize the needle. A cross section of cork. Slice a disc from an old wine cork to provide a base for the compass. A bowl of water. Suspending the compass in water allows the magnetized needle to align with the earth's magnetic poles. Magnetize the needle. Rub the needle using a magnet, a nail, or a piece of fur, which creates a small electric current. Rub the needle in the same direction at least 50 times to magnetize it. Stick the needle through the cork. Slide it in horizontally, so that the needle pierces on side of the cork and comes out the other side. Keep pushing until the front and back of the needle protrude equally from the cork. If the needle you're using is too big to push through the cork, you may simply rest it on top of the cork. If you don't have a cork coin, use another lightweight object that floats, such as a leaf. Float the magnet. Place the magnetized needle on the surface of the water in the bowl. Watch as it moves to align itself from north and south along the poles. If it doesn't move, remove the needle from the cork, rub it 75 times with the magnetizer, and try again.
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Gather supplies. Rub the magnet against the paperclip. Touch the paperclip against the smaller piece of metal. Gather supplies. Strip the ends of the wire. Wrap the nail. Connect the battery. Use the magnet. Gather supplies. Magnetize the needle. Stick the needle through the cork. Float the magnet.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Play-Video-Games
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How to Play Video Games
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To get started playing video games, you might want to start out with games you can play on your phone or computer before investing in an expensive console. You can search online or in your app store for "free video games" to find games that won't cost you anything. Try to play different types of games, like action games, story-based games, and puzzle games, so you can figure out what you like the best. Then, if video games seem like they're for you, consider buying a console so you have access to more options.
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Choose a platform. Playing video games no longer requires a dedicated console or a souped-up gaming computer. There are an increasing number of quality games available for your laptop, old computer, smartphone, or tablet. Get a taste for these first before you shell out hundreds of dollars for a console or computer upgrades. Once you've decided to explore new territory, keep the following in mind: For the largest number of available games, get a desktop computer running the latest operating system, and install a good video card. For a cheap, easy to set up option, purchase a console. Choose a latest-generation console (PS4, Switch, or Xbox One) to play new games, or an old one (PS3, Wii, Xbox 360 or even earlier) for a large selection of cheap, used classics. Choose a handheld gaming system for a specific game you can't get on your phone. Check the game rating. Game rating systems vary between each country, but an explanation should be available on the packaging or online description. Games rated M for mature or for an age range 17 or higher typically contain extreme violence or disturbing scenes. Read the system requirements. If you are using a console, you should be able to play any game for that console. Computer gamers need to find out their computer specifications and check them against the requirements on the game packaging or website. There are typically two sets of requirements listed: "Required" lists the bare minimum. If you fall short of any of these requirements, don't purchase the game. If you barely meet these requirements, the game will probably be slow and/or look much worse than trailers and screenshots show. "Recommended" requirements should let you play the game with shorter loading times, no lag or visual glitches, and better graphics settings. Watch video reviews. Games are a huge business, and the actual gameplay sometimes fails to live up to marketing hype. Find at least one review before you purchase an expensive game, preferably a video one so you can watch the gameplay first hand. Hear about new games and old classics. If you have gamer friends, you'll probably hear about new games whether you like it or not. Other sources of information include gaming blogs and magazines, which you can find with a quick online search, or browsing the vast collection of computer games on Steam, the free game store. Feel free to jump into sequels. Don't feel obligated to play the first game in a series. The sequels often have improved gameplay and graphics, and often don't even follow the previous story directly. Be cautious with competitive games. If you don't consider yourself a gamer, there are certain genres that you may not enjoy. First-person shooters, fighting games, "battle arenas" like League of Legends, and to a lesser extent sports games tend to be fiercely competitive. These are often extremely difficult for a new player to learn. If you have your heart set on learning one of these genres, pick one with a single-player mode that lets you learn on your own, such as Halo. Some specific games in different genres fall into this category as well. The Starcraft and Dark Souls series are not recommended for inexperienced gamers. Try before you buy. If you're uncertain about a game, look for a free demo version. If this isn't available, consider renting the game from the Gamefly website, or from a brick-and-mortar store. Play free introductory games. If you've never got into a video game before, you might want to try a few free ones first to see what you enjoy. A quick search online or in an app store for "free games" will give you thousands of results, but here are a few suggestions you should be able to find in an online search: Puzzle games are easy to find in mobile app stores or online flash game sites. If you've had your fill of classics like Tetris and Minesweeper, try Loops of Zen, 3D Logic, Lightbot, and many more. Most free action games on mobile or online aren't great introductions to their more "gamer"-oriented counterparts. If you have a decent computer, Path of Exile is a more expansive introduction. If you like strategy, try Hearthstone (collectible card game), Plants vs Zombies (tower defense), or Battle for Wesnoth (turn-based strategy). All three are available for both computer and mobile platforms, and most versions are free. Find more puzzle games. Some of the biggest casual "coffee break" puzzle games include Candy Crush and 2048. Take it to three dimensions and add a quirky story to discover the acclaimed Portal and Portal 2. If nothing but the most cerebral and fiendishly difficult will do, play Braid. Search for action games. This is a broad and popular genre. If you like fighting and platforming (leaping and climbing around), look no further. The atmosphere and setting of these games ranges from horror (The Last of Us) to family-friendly (Legend of Zelda) to historical (Assassin's Creed). If you like testing your reflexes but don't really care about story or immersive experiences, try a competitive first-person shooter (such as Call of Duty) or a family-friendly platformer (such as Super Mario Galaxy). If you'd rather mess around or have fun with friends than explore and follow a story, try Super Smash Brothers (family friendly) or Grand Theft Auto (the opposite of family friendly). Play story-based games. Enjoy sprawling fantasy settings? Play Dragon Age or Skyrim for a pseudo-medieval experience, or one of the more recent Final Fantasy games for the Japanese take. Bioshock 2 or Bioshock: Infinite are more unsettling examples set in utopias gone wrong. Pick up a few strategy games. Build an empire with turn-based strategy in Civilization V or Civilization: Beyond Earth. Test your reflexes with fast-paced "real-time strategy" games such as the challenging multi-player game Starcraft II. Try any Total War game to test your single-player tactical skills or play the role of famous historical figures. Try games of exploration and creativity. If you don't care about graphics, there are few games more appealing than Minecraft when it comes to building a world. Maybe controlling a house and family in The Sims 2 is more up your alley, or perhaps you'd prefer a more detailed world and atmosphere in Sunless Sea. Play a multiplayer online role-playing game. World of Warcraft popularized this genre, in which you play online with thousands of other players. WoW is still around alongside Star Wars: The Old Republic, Lord of the Rings Online, and many, many others. Most of these are partially free to play, but find out what the full version's payment system is like before you get involved. These games are infamously addictive, and once you're hooked you might find yourself spending a great deal of money on monthly subscription payments or in-game purchases. Learn to play. Most games have tutorials that will walk you through the game play. If you prefer to learn on your own, read the instruction manual, or look for the "documentation" section on the main menu or website. Dim the lights (optional). This is recommended for adventure and horror games especially. Besides a greater feeling of immersion, this will cut down on glare interfering with your ability to see the screen. Turn down the difficulty if you like. Games don't have to be about suffering or pushing yourself to the limit. If you're playing a video game to unwind, set it to Easy difficulty. The harder difficulty levels are often intended to be difficult challenges for people who have played similar games for years. If the game has both single-player and multi-player options, the single-player portion is almost always easier. Change the controls if necessary. You can ignore this step until it's an issue, but if you find yourself hitting the wrong button or straining your fingers, visit the menu options. There's almost always an option to change the controls to whichever key you find easiest. A laptop trackpad makes it extremely difficult to play some games. An actual mouse is a big improvement. If you like the feel of a console controller, these are available to plug in to your computer as well, if you have the right adapter. Not all games support this, however. Save often. Most games have an auto-save feature that will save your progress regularly. If it also has the option to save manually, do so often. There's nothing worse than losing hours of progress because your system crashes or the power goes out. If you have the option to use multiple save slots, create three or four and rotate between them. This lets you load an old save to explore a different story branch, or recover your game even if a bug screws up your most recent save. Explore and experiment. One of the most appealing features of video games compared to other art forms is the ability to insert hidden content that you have to actively search for and discover. Here are a few tips for getting the most out of your games: In platformers, role-playing games, or even racing games, try to move through or attack walls that look out of place with their surroundings. In strategy games and action/adventure games, try new tactics even if they don't seem great. The later parts of the game (or harder competition) often require the ability to recognize when an unusual weapon or strategy has a chance to shine. In games where you can talk to "NPCs" (non-player characters), use every dialogue option and read closely for hints. Get help when you're stuck. Unless your only goal is bragging rights, why spend hours losing to the same fight or stuck on the same puzzle? Search for the game name and the word "walkthrough" online, and you'll find strategy advice or answers for every part of the game. If you prefer to solve it mostly on your own, ask friends or gaming forums for hints and advice. Hints and advice can make the game easier! If it's not possible to follow the walkthrough advice (such as talking to a dead character), or if you are following the instructions but nothing is happening, it could be a bug. Search online for a description of your situation and you might find other players who can help you fix it.
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Choose a platform. Check the game rating. Read the system requirements. Watch video reviews. Hear about new games and old classics. Feel free to jump into sequels. Be cautious with competitive games. Try before you buy. Play free introductory games. Find more puzzle games. Search for action games. Play story-based games. Pick up a few strategy games. Try games of exploration and creativity. Play a multiplayer online role-playing game. Learn to play. Dim the lights (optional). Turn down the difficulty if you like. Change the controls if necessary. Save often. Explore and experiment. Get help when you're stuck.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Avoid-Yellow-Stains-on-White-Shirts
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How to Avoid Yellow Stains on White Shirts
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To avoid yellow stains on the collars and underarms of your white shirts, try switching to an aluminum free deodorant. Look for deodorants that are labeled, “aluminum-free,” or say something like “anti-yellow staining” on the label. If you're looking to fight wetness as well as odor, try an aluminum-free antiperspirant with a sprinkling of Gold Bond or baby powder.
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Wash your neck thoroughly before putting on a white shirt. White shirt collars tend to pick up built-up dirt, oils, and haircare products from the back of your neck, leading to grungy, yellowish discoloration. The next time you plan to put on a white shirt, jump in the shower first and give the back of your neck a good scrub with soap or body wash. If you don't have time for a shower, wash the back of your neck with a soapy washcloth or a cleansing wipe before putting on your shirt. Wipe excess hair and skin products off your neck. If you tend to use hair products (such as gel or wax) or skincare products (like lotions or moisturizers), wipe the back of your neck before putting your shirt on. These products can easily pick up dirt and grime, and some may contain staining ingredients. Let any hair product dry before putting on your shirt, especially if your hair is long enough to touch your collar. Switch to aluminum-free deodorant to prevent pit stains. The major culprit behind those aggravating yellow underarm stains is not your sweat, but the aluminum used in many deodorants and antiperspirants. A chemical reaction between sweat and aluminum creates the yellow discoloration. To prevent this problem, switch to a natural, aluminum-free deodorant that focuses on combating bacterial odors rather than blocking your pores. Look for deodorants that say “aluminum free” on the label, or make your own deodorant using household ingredients and essential oils. Some antiperspirants are formulated to both reduce sweating and prevent yellow stains. Look for deodorants that say something like “anti-yellow staining” or “fights stains on shirts” on the label. To fight wetness without shirt-staining aluminum, combine an aluminum-free deodorant with a sprinkling of absorbent Gold Bond or a little baby powder. Wear an undershirt to protect your shirt from sweat. Undershirts provide a barrier of protection between your shirt and your body. They may be particularly useful for preventing underarm stains. If you perspire a lot, look for undershirts with built-in sweat guards. Trim or shave your underarm hair to reduce sweating. Having a lot of armpit hair promotes excess sweating, especially when the weather is hot. Protect your shirts from sweat stains and reduce your need for staining antiperspirants by removing some or all of your underarm hair. Wash white shirts immediately after wearing them. Catching and treating stains early is key to preventing them from taking hold. As soon as you notice discoloration starting to develop on your shirt's collar or underarms, use a commercial pre-laundry stain treatment on the area. Wash or dry clean your shirt as soon as possible. Enzyme-based cleaners are especially good for tackling sweat stains. Minimize your use of bleach. While bleach is a common laundry-whitening agent, it can react with certain kinds of fabrics and create a yellowish discoloration. It is especially important to avoid using bleach on wrinkle-resistant cotton, polyester, or polyester blends. Use lemon juice as a bleach alternative. Instead of trying to brighten up your white shirts with chlorine-based bleach, add 1 cup (about.25 liters) of lemon juice to your wash along with your regular detergent. Wash only white clothes with lemon juice, as it can cause colors to fade. Check for iron in your water supply. If your white shirts are coming out of the wash with yellow or orange stains or discoloration, iron in your water may be the culprit. Get a home water-hardness testing kit at your local home supply store, or contact a certified water testing lab in your area and find out how to get a sample of your water tested for iron. If you live in the US, visit the EPA's water lab network website to find an accredited lab in your area: https://www.epa.gov/waterlabnetwork. Install a water filtration system if there is iron in your water. Iron stains are very difficult to remove from clothing, so the best way to protect your white shirts is to treat your water. If your tests indicate that your water is high in iron, you may need to install a home water filter or water softening system designed to treat iron-rich water. If you are not comfortable installing your own water filter or softener, contact a professional plumber. Someone at a certified water testing lab in your area may be able to advise you on the best type of filtration system for your home.
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Wash your neck thoroughly before putting on a white shirt. Wipe excess hair and skin products off your neck. Switch to aluminum-free deodorant to prevent pit stains. Wear an undershirt to protect your shirt from sweat. Trim or shave your underarm hair to reduce sweating. Wash white shirts immediately after wearing them. Minimize your use of bleach. Use lemon juice as a bleach alternative. Check for iron in your water supply. Install a water filtration system if there is iron in your water.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Rocky-Road
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How to Make Rocky Road
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To make rocky road fudge, start by heating chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk in a saucepan over medium heat until the chips have fully melted. Then, remove the saucepan from the heat and stir in salted peanuts and miniature marshmallows. Next, pour the mixture into a baking dish lined with parchment paper, and chill it in the fridge for at least 1 hour. Finally, slice the fudge into small, 1-inch squares and enjoy.
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Line a 9 in × 9 in (23 cm × 23 cm) baking dish with parchment paper. Make sure that the parchment paper is cut large enough to overhang the baking dish by approximately 2 in (5.1 cm) on both sides. You can use a slightly smaller or larger baking dish if you prefer. This will determine how thick the rocky road fudge is going to be and how long it will take to set. Using a smaller dish will make thicker rocky road fudge. However, this will take longer to set. Similarly, a larger dish will make thinner fudge which sets faster. Avoid using a baking dish that is smaller than 7 in × 7 in (18 cm × 18 cm) or larger than 11 in × 11 in (28 cm × 28 cm), as this may significantly change the consistency of the fudge and how it sets. Cook the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk for 2-3 minutes. Add 1 3/5 cup (283.5 g) of bittersweet chocolate chips and 14 fl oz (410 ml) of sweetened condensed milk to a medium saucepan. Adjust the stovetop temperature to a medium heat. Stir the chocolate chips and condensed milk continuously as it cooks. Keep cooking the ingredients until the chocolate chips have melted and the ingredients have combined. Remove the saucepan from the heat once the chocolate has melted. Mix the salted peanuts and miniature marshmallows into the saucepan. Pour 2 1/2 cups (325 g) of salted peanuts and 2 cups (100 g) of miniature marshmallows into the saucepan with the chocolate and condensed milk mixture. Use a wooden spoon to combine the ingredients thoroughly. Make sure that the miniature marshmallows are separated and not stuck together before you add these to the chocolate mixture. This is to avoid large clumps of marshmallow getting set into the rocky road. Alternatively, use a whisk rather than a wooden spoon to combine the ingredients. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. You may need to hold onto the parchment paper to keep it in place. Use a spoon or spatula to scrape any leftover mixture into the dish. Make sure that the mixture is spread out evenly in the dish. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 1 hour until it’s set. Leave the baking dish in the refrigerator until it solidifies. After 1 hour, press on the mixture gently with a fork or the back of a spoon to check that it feels firm. Alternatively, you can let the mixture set at room temperature rather than in the refrigerator. However, it will take longer to set this way. Depending on the size of the baking dish that you used, the fudge may take up to 3 hours to set. Slice the fudge into 1 in (2.5 cm) squares. Remove the fudge from the baking dish by lifting up the overhanging parchment paper. Place the fudge onto a chopping board to slice it. You can store any leftover rocky road fudge in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 weeks. Place parchment paper into a 9 in × 9 in (23 cm × 23 cm) baking dish. Cut a piece of parchment paper that will overlap the sides of the dish. You can use a slightly larger or smaller baking dish if you prefer, however, this may adjust how long it takes for the rocky road to set. Alternatively, you can grease the baking dish with cooking spray instead. Break 10 1/2 oz (300 g) of dark chocolate into small pieces. Use a knife or your hands to break up the block. The pieces don't have to be perfect or even, as this is just to help the chocolate melt faster. Simply snapping the block roughly into 6 pieces will be enough. Crush 7 1/4 oz (200 g) of rich tea biscuits into rough pieces. Place the biscuits into a freezer bag. Use a rolling pin to crush the biscuits into pieces. Crush the biscuits until there is a combination of crumbs and smaller biscuit pieces in the freezer bag. You can either use the rolling pin to crush the biscuits or the side of your fist. Melt the butter, chocolate, and golden syrup over a low heat for 3-5 minutes. Place 4 1/2 oz (125 g) of unsalted butter, the dark chocolate pieces, and 3 US tbsp (44 ml) of golden syrup into a saucepan. Stir the mixture until it has melted and combined. Melt the ingredients until you can't see any lumps of chocolate. Remove the saucepan from the heat when it is ready. Set aside 4 1/2 fl oz (125 ml) of the mixture in a bowl. Use a ladle and measuring cup to scoop some of the butter, chocolate, and golden syrup mixture. Set the bowl aside and leave the rest of the mixture in the saucepan. Alternatively, use a measuring jug rather than a cup so that you can keep the reserved mixture in there. Then you won't need to transfer it into a bowl. Keep the reserved mixture close by as you will need to use it soon. Add the biscuit pieces and miniature marshmallows to the saucepan. Pour the crushed biscuit pieces from the freezer bag and into the chocolate mixture in the saucepan. Add in 3 1/2 oz (100 g) of miniature marshmallows. Use a wooden spoon to combine the crushed biscuit pieces and the miniature marshmallows into the chocolate mixture. Mix in the crushed biscuit pieces and miniature marshmallows thoroughly to avoid large clumps setting into the chocolate. Transfer the mixture in the saucepan into the baking dish. Pour the contents of the saucepan into the baking dish. Hold the parchment paper in place in case it gets shifted in the process. If you prefer, run a wet spatula over the top of the mixture once it's in the dish to smooth it over. You may need to spread the mixture out to the corners using a spatula if it stays in the middle of the dish. Pour the reserved chocolate mixture into the baking dish. Tip the chocolate mixture out from the bowl and over the top of the bottom layer in the dish. You may need to use a spatula to help transfer the mixture. This means that the bottom layer will have biscuit pieces and marshmallows and the top layer will just be chocolate, butter, and golden syrup. You can smooth the top of this layer with a wet spatula if you prefer a smoother finish. Refrigerate the rocky road for 2 hours until it is set. Place the baking dish into the refrigerator. Check it after 2 hours to make sure that it the chocolate is solid. Alternatively, you can leave it to chill overnight if you prefer. The rocky road may take a slightly shorter or longer amount of time to set depending on the size of the baking dish that you used. Dust the rocky road with icing sugar and cut it into 24 fingers. Use 2 tsp (2.6 g) of icing sugar to dust the top of the rocky road. Remove the rocky road from the baking dish by lifting up the parchment paper. Use a sharp knife to slice the rocky road into bars. Store any leftover bars in an airtight container in the refrigerator. These will last for up to 3 weeks. Never leave rocky road bars in the sun as they will melt and spoil.
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Line a 9 in × 9 in (23 cm × 23 cm) baking dish with parchment paper. Cook the chocolate chips and sweetened condensed milk for 2-3 minutes. Mix the salted peanuts and miniature marshmallows into the saucepan. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish. Chill the mixture in the refrigerator for 1 hour until it’s set. Slice the fudge into 1 in (2.5 cm) squares. Place parchment paper into a 9 in × 9 in (23 cm × 23 cm) baking dish. Break 10 1/2 oz (300 g) of dark chocolate into small pieces. Crush 7 1/4 oz (200 g) of rich tea biscuits into rough pieces. Melt the butter, chocolate, and golden syrup over a low heat for 3-5 minutes. Set aside 4 1/2 fl oz (125 ml) of the mixture in a bowl. Add the biscuit pieces and miniature marshmallows to the saucepan. Transfer the mixture in the saucepan into the baking dish. Pour the reserved chocolate mixture into the baking dish. Refrigerate the rocky road for 2 hours until it is set. Dust the rocky road with icing sugar and cut it into 24 fingers.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Test-Reflexes
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How to Test Reflexes
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To test someone's reflexes, first get a reflex hammer, which has a rubber head to avoid causing injury. Then, locate the tendon you want to test, which will feel like a thin strip of muscle on the knee or ankle. When you're ready to do the test, hold the hammer lightly and gently tap the tendon in 1 swift stroke. If the reflexes of the person you're testing are normal, watch for the muscle to contract rapidly after you tap the tendon. Alternatively, the muscle may contract repeatedly, possibly indicating a communication problem in the person's spinal cord. If you get no response, try tapping the tendon again to make sure you didn't miss it first time around.
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Get a reflex hammer. There are a variety of styles of reflex hammers to choose from. Some are light and small, and are designed to be swung with a small amount of force. Others are slightly weighted and use gravity to exert force onto the tendon. These hammers are available from medical supply businesses and online retailers. The head of a reflex hammer is made of rubber. This helps to ensure that it does not hurt when the hammer taps a tendon. Pick a muscle to test. There are a wide variety of muscle reflexes that can be tested. The most common is the knee but any joint or large muscle can be assessed. Some reflexes that are usually tested during neurological exams include: Ankle Knee Abdomen Forearm Biceps Triceps Locate the tendon you will tap. When testing a person's reflexes, you will need to tap directly on the tendon that connects the bone and muscle you want to test. Feel the area where the tendon is normally located so that you can find its exact position. The tendon will feel like a tight strip of tissue under the surface of the skin. For instance, if you want to test knee reflexes, you have to tap on the patellar tendon. This tendon is located just below the knee cap. Feel the bottom of the knee cap and, if necessary, have the person move their knee to make the tendon more visible. Make sure the muscle is in a neutral position and can easily flex. When testing reflexes, you need to allow the muscle to move freely once it is stimulated. Make sure it is in a position where it is not flexed but when it does flex it will not be hindered. For example, if you are testing the reflexes of the knee, the person should be seated on an exam table with their legs hanging down freely. If you are testing the bicep, allow the person to sit down and rest their arm in their lap. In this position the elbow should be bent a bit more than 90 degrees. Consider testing your own reflexes. While it is not a common practice, you can test your own reflexes. Since reflexes are involuntary, as long as you position the muscle properly and tap the proper location, your muscle should respond. It may be difficult for you to get the reflex hammer into the proper position to test certain reflexes. For example, the achilles tendon would be difficult to test on your own body. Testing your own reflexes is a good way to practice your technique for reflex testing. If you have tried to test your reflexes yourself and you now have concerns about your health, go to a doctor to have the test done again. Having a doctor do reflex testing on you is more reliable than you doing it on yourself. Hold the hammer lightly. If you are using a small, light hammer, hold it lightly between your thumb and forefinger. A weighted hammer can be held with the whole hand but the grip on this type of hammer should be light as well. Holding the hammer lightly ensures that you do not apply too much force when you tap the tendon. Use 1 swift stroke. Reflex testing only requires a single impact with the hammer. Move the hammer and your wrist in a 45 to 60 degree arc towards the tendon. This stroke should be done quickly and firmly, tap the center of the tendon. Tap the tendon with proper force. It does not take a lot of force to make a muscle flex. The tendon should be tap firmly but not with enough force to cause pain. The goal should be to tap the tendon with the least amount of force possible while still eliciting a reflex. This can take some practice to get right. If you have a weighted hammer, it is designed to create sufficient force when it is dropped from a distance of 10 to 12 centimetres (3.9 to 4.7 in). You do not want to add additional force. Gravity will do the work. Look for a quick response. With a normal reflex, the muscle will contract quickly after the connected tendon is stimulated. This response isn't necessarily immediate, but should occur within 1 second of being stimulated. Notice exaggerated or repeating responses. Hyperreflexia is a condition in which a muscle repeatedly contracts when it is stimulated. This repeated contraction will be visible once the muscle is stimulated. This condition usually indicates a malfunction in communication in the spinal cord. Assess whether no response is due to an error or a medical problem. In order to ensure that you tap the tendon correctly but no response occurred, you should do it several times. With repeated reflex tests you can ensure that your test results are correct and not due to an error in your method of testing. Having no response to tendon stimulation is called hyporeflexia. Compare reflexes on 2 muscles. When testing reflexes, it can help you gauge the response by comparing the same muscle on the opposite side of the body. For example, test the reflexes on 1 ankle and then immediately test the reflexes on the other ankle. Comparing the responses can allow you to spot abnormal responses. Grade the reflex. In order judge how good reflexes are, most doctors grade them on a scale from 0 to 4. These numbered grades can also be given a plus or minus to indicate additional levels of response. The numerical grades correspond to responses in this way: 0 is no response 1 is a slight response 2 is a normal, quick response 3 is a very brisk response 4 is an abnormal repeating reflex Use reflex results for diagnosis. Doctors use your grade of reflexes to verify whether your nerves are working effectively. If the muscle reacts correctly, the nerves in the muscle are communicating with the brain as they should. If the muscle doesn't react well, then there is an issue in the nerves between the muscle and the brain. This problem could be caused by a variety of issues, so your doctor will continue with addition medical tests to find the source of the problem. Some medical conditions that can cause poor muscle reflexes include multiple sclerosis, diabetes, alcoholism, amyloidosis, uremia, vitamin deficiencies, toxin poisoning, and certain cancers.
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Get a reflex hammer. Pick a muscle to test. Locate the tendon you will tap. Make sure the muscle is in a neutral position and can easily flex. Consider testing your own reflexes. Hold the hammer lightly. Use 1 swift stroke. Tap the tendon with proper force. Look for a quick response. Notice exaggerated or repeating responses. Assess whether no response is due to an error or a medical problem. Compare reflexes on 2 muscles. Grade the reflex. Use reflex results for diagnosis.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-a-Broken-Ankle
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How to Treat a Broken Ankle
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If you're recovering from a broken ankle, rest for a couple of days to give your ankle time to heal. When you need to move around, use crutches to support yourself, since putting weight on your ankle can interfere with the healing process. Once your ankle starts to recover, make an appointment with a physical therapist so they can help you start to gain some strength back. Your physical therapist can teach you how to safely do ankle exercises to restore your mobility and stability, like calf raises, toe curls, and tennis ball rolls.
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Notice if you feel pain in and around your ankle. A fractured bone causes immediate, intense pain and swelling. A stress fracture may cause pain that increases over time. The pain should lessen when you rest the ankle, but it won't go away. If your ankle is broken, then it likely won't be able to bear weight at all. If your ankle is tender around the outside or back of your ankle, then you should have it evaluated by a doctor. Take note of any loss of function you experience in your ankle. This is a good way to tell if your ankle is fractured or just sprained. If your bone is fractured, moving it is nearly impossible, while you will still be able to move it if it is sprained. Pain, swelling, and the inflammatory cells causing your ankle to swell contribute to this loss of function. Additionally, a broken ankle can affect your coordination because the fracture can affect your brain's ability to know the position of the limb. Check for swelling. If you have fractured your ankle, your body will try to protect the injured ankle from further damage by sending a lot of inflammatory (“healing”) cells to the affected area. The inflammatory cells carry repair kits to mend the injury. Unfortunately, these cells also cause swelling and discomfort. Believe it or not, your injured ankle actually benefits from swelling indirectly, even if it causes you feelings of pain and frustration. Swelling prohibits large degrees of movement of the involved ankle. Therefore, it promotes speedy recovery. Look for any redness or bruising on or around your ankle. Redness or flushing of the affected ankle means that there is a rush of blood in the area. Blood carries recovery cells to the area to promote faster healing. Monitor any heat you feel in the area around your ankle. When blood rushes to your ankle, it will also cause your ankle to feel really hot. You may feel like you have a fever that you can only feel in your ankle. Clean any wounds before you wrap the ankle. If you have cuts or an open fracture, remove any debris and gently wash the wound. Use an antiseptic wash to minimize the risk of infection. Then call your doctor to get an appointment. Until your doctor's appointment, you can follow the acronym PRICE to guide your first aid efforts. PRICE stands for: Protect, Rest, Ice, Compress, and Elevate. Use an ACE wrap or a splint on your ankle to protect it until you're able to be seen by a foot specialist. Protect ankle from further injury by using a splint. The most basic splint is a sturdy flat object, like a ruler, that you can press up against your broken bone. You can keep it in place with gauze or medical tape; this helps to keep the broken bone from moving. To learn how to properly splint an ankle, click here. If you do not have a splint but are wearing shoes that support your ankle, like hiking boots or regular boots, tighten the laces as tightly as they can go to keep your ankle immobile while you make your way to the hospital. Rest your ankle. Continuing to walk and bear weight on the affected ankle will cause injury. You should stay put while waiting for help. If you are in a situation where you need to leave the area you are in, ask others to support you while you hobble away, or find a sturdy branch or pole that you can use as a crutch. Rest should be continued even after your initial treatment. The first three days after injury should be dedicated to rest. Wait for the doctor's clearance before resuming any activities that involve using your ankle. Apply ice to your ankle to relieve pain and swelling. Use an ice pack, bag of ice, or even a bag of frozen veggies to cool down your injured ankle. Ice decreases the flow of blood to your ankle, thus reducing swelling. The cold also masks the pain you feel. Ice your ankle for 15 to 20 minutes every hour. If you can, use crushed ice because it can follow the contours of your ankle. Avoid applying the ice directly to your skin, as really cold temperatures can burn your skin just like heat will. Compress your ankle with elastic bandages. Compression of the affected area reduces blood flow to the injured site. Hence, less inflammatory cells will be available to cause swelling. If you have put a splint on your ankle and wrapped it with elastic bandage, you are already compressing your ankle. You can also skip the splint and wrap your ankle in elastic bandages while you make your way to the hospital. Elevate your ankle. When you elevate your ankle, you reduce the flow of blood to that area. Because of this, the swelling in your ankle will decrease. You can elevate your ankle while sitting or lying down. Try to elevate your ankle as soon as you can after you injure it. Sitting: Your ankle must be elevated higher than your hip. Lying down: Your ankle must be elevated higher than your heart and chest. Take acetaminophen to control the pain. On op of using the PRICE acronym, you can also take acetaminophen to regulate the pain. Take 325 to 650 mg tablets, 1 tablet every 4 hours, unless you have previous orders from a doctor to avoid acetaminophen. Do not take other painkillers like ibuprofen, until after you have gone to the hospital. Painkillers like ibuprofen thin your blood and could cause problems if you have to get surgery. Visit a doctor for a proper diagnosis. The doctor will examine your ankle and will likely do diagnostic tests, such as an X-ray. This will allow the doctor to determine if the ankle is broken, strained, or sprained. If the ankle is broken, the doctor will likely put a cast on it. For a sprain or strain, they may give you a splint or bandage to wear until it's healed. In rare cases, severe injuries may require surgery. Your doctor may prescribe painkillers for the days after your injury. In some cases, they may recommend taking over-the-counter painkillers instead. Even if you go to your primary care physician or the emergency room, you may be referred to a foot specialist for treatment. Get a cast put on your ankle if it's broken. A cast is a cement boot that immobilizes your foot and allows the broken ends of the bone in your ankle to unite naturally. The doctor will apply the cast, and then they'll need to remove it after your bone heals. This procedure is not painful. You will most likely have to wear the cast for 4-8 weeks. Get closed reduction done if your ankle is both fractured and dislocated. Closed reduction is a maneuver performed by doctors to restore a bone in its proper place without having to perform surgery. It is important get the ankle back into its normal location so that you are able to move around like normal once your ankle heals. An orthopedic surgeon will usually do the maneuver. Casting is required after reduction to ensure that the bones stay in place. In extreme cases of ankle joint instability, metal plates and screws have to be inserted externally (called external fixation) or internally (called internal fixation) to hold the bones in place. Talk to your doctor about surgery if you have a severe injury. This could include multiple fractures or a severe dislocation. Getting surgery done will help put your bones back into their proper places, and keep them in those proper places. On the positive side of things, getting surgery will speed up your recovery time—while you have to wait out a cast, you will be on the mend within days after your surgery. There are two parts to ankle surgery. First, you would undergo open reduction, during which your bones would be put back into their proper places. Then, through external fixation, metal plates are drilled into the bone and screws are placed to ensure very minute movement of the affected bones. Get some rest. Regardless of what kind of treatment you receive, you should give yourself a break for the next couple of days. Your body has been through a traumatic experience and needs time to recover. Follow the PRICE acronym to make sure you are giving your ankle the tender care it needs. Consider taking some over-the-counter pain medication. If you are experiencing a lot of pain after your medical treatment, take some painkillers like acetaminophen or ibuprofen. If your doctor prescribed a different painkiller, follow his or her instructions. Use crutches to support yourself. In the first few days, you should take short walks in your house, using the crutches that the doctor gave you. It might be very uncomfortable in the beginning, but you will get used to them. You must not put pressure on your leg, unless stated otherwise by your doctor. You should not even put your leg on the floor for the first few days. Don't engage in any weight bearing activity while your fracture is healing, unless your doctor advises you that it's okay. Some fractures may be able to bear weight under certain circumstances, such as while wearing a special boot. Avoid getting your cast wet. if you wet your cast, immediately contact your orthopedist for a new one. This is very important because if water accumulates inside the cast (between the cast and your skin), your skin can be affected and an infection can occur very quickly. Another issue with a wet cast is that it can get loose, which means it won't hold your ankle in place properly. Make an appointment with a physical therapist. As your ankle recovers, you will need to start gaining strength back in that ankle. To do this, you will need to go to physical therapy and perform exercises that will help to build your ankle's mobility and flexibility. Rehabilitate your ankle to regain strength and range of motion. Having a cast or surgery bring your bones back together is only half of the recovery process. Rehabilitation (aka physical therapy) is equally important to recover the stability, mobility, and function of your ankle. Rehabilitation includes ankle joint stability and mobility exercises, calf muscle strengthening, and stretching. Stability should be trained before mobility. Stability exercises reinforce the maximum allowable degree of movement in the ankle without risking injury. Stability is also necessary to withstand external pressure applied to the ankle. It usually takes 6-8 weeks for an ankle fracture to heal. Your orthopedist may allow you to engage in range of motion movements as early as 4 weeks. They may also transition you to a removable boot cast. Follow up with your doctor so that they can evaluate how well your ankle is healing. Perform ankle joint stability exercises. Talk to your doctor and physical therapist before engaging in any exercises. Ankle joint stability exercises are usually done within a week after surgery or when the cast is removed. This is a walkthrough of a simple ankle joint stability exercise: Stand in front of a wall so that you are an arm's length away from it. Push against the wall. Look straight, keep your shoulder blades down and back and make a double chin. Standing like this will make sure that your spine is properly aligned. Suck in your gut as if someone were trying to punch you in the stomach. Squeeze your butt muscles together. Doing this maneuver will train the core and posterior chain muscles. Both are vital for training the proper alignment of the ankle joint and preventing re-injury. Raise the healthy foot off the floor. Maintain this position for 30 seconds. Standing on one leg will introduce an unstable situation. This will train the injured ankle to resist unstable forces. Resist the urge to look at your foot. Looking in a straight direction throughout the movement will train proprioception as well. It is common to experience wobbling in the first few tries. Rest for 1 minute and then repeat this process twice. Do this once with the other leg to make sure that it receives the same strength training. Do an ankle joint mobility exercise. Ankle joint mobility is very important in everyday activities such as walking, climbing a flight of stairs, driving and more. The goal is to restore ankle mobility to normal movement patterns. Ankle joint mobility exercises are usually done when ankle joint stability is established. “The Alphabet” is an example of ankle joint mobility exercise: Sit in a chair and extend your leg with the injured ankle so that it is parallel to the ground. Pretend that the affected foot is a pen and draw the letters of the alphabet in the air from A-Z and reverse. You might feel stiffness in your ankle. Work through the stiffness but not so hard that you feel pain. Your focus should be on the movement of your ankle and not the smoothness of the strokes. Rest for 2 minutes and repeat the movement twice. Perform calf raises. This exercise targets the calf muscles, Achilles tendon, and the ankle joint ligaments. It mimics the motion that our foot makes for everyday activities such as walking, running, climbing a flight of stairs, and reaching for tall objects. To do it: Stand with the balls of your feet on the edge of a step on your stairs with your heels hanging off. Keep the gut sucked in, stand tall, and rest your hands against a wall or handrail. Rise on the balls of your feet in a tip-toe fashion. Try to stand as high on your tip-toes as you can. You heels should lift above the step. Exhale while you do this to keep your blood pressure normal. Slowly descend until your heels are a few inches below the edge of a step. Inhale while you do this. This works the calf muscle to its whole range of motion leaving no weak point behind. Repeat 10 times for one set. Rest for one minute and do 2 more sets. Try toe towel curls. The soles of the foot contain a lot of small foot muscles. The small foot muscles are enclosed in a sheath called the plantar fascia. The mobility of the plantar fascia is very crucial in preventing injury of the ankle. The towel curls will help the fascia stay loose despite everyday stress to the foot. To do the towel curl: Sit in a chair or on the couch. You can even do this while watching TV or reading a wikiHow article. Place one medium-sized thin towel on the floor lengthwise. Put your foot on the end of the towel. Draw the other end of the towel towards you by curling only your toes. The heel should be planted to the ground at all times. Repeat this exercise three more times and switch with the other foot. Increase your flexibility with a calf stretch. Flexibility is as important as strength when it comes to the health of your ankles. The calf stretch mainly targets the calf muscles and Achilles tendon. Both are vital to great ankle flexibility. To do this: Stand in front of a wall and push against it with your arms. Your arms should be at chest level and shoulder-width apart. The shoulder blades should be drawn back and down. Put your right foot behind your left foot and keep your right leg straight. The heel should come in contact with the ground and toes should point forward throughout the stretch. Bend the left foot forward to stretch the right calf muscle. You should feel a stretch or a slight discomfort that is tolerable in the calf muscles of your right leg. If you feel pain, stop. Hold this position for 30 seconds for people younger than 40 years old. Those older than 40 years old should hold their stretch for 60 seconds. The muscles become stiffer as we age. Keeping longer stretches will help loosen the muscles up. Try doing tennis ball rolls. Tennis ball rolls relieve accumulated stress of the foot muscles and plantar fascia. To do them: Place a regular tennis ball on the floor. Sit in a chair and place the middle part of your foot on the tennis ball. Roll the ball in circles. Do it in clockwise fashion for 1 minute followed by counter-clockwise motion for 1 minute as well. Roll the ball back and forth for 1 minute. Roll the ball side-to-side for 1 minute. Switch to your other foot. Do this process three times on both feet.
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Notice if you feel pain in and around your ankle. Take note of any loss of function you experience in your ankle. Check for swelling. Look for any redness or bruising on or around your ankle. Monitor any heat you feel in the area around your ankle. Clean any wounds before you wrap the ankle. Protect ankle from further injury by using a splint. Rest Apply ice to your ankle to relieve pain and swelling. Compress Elevate Take acetaminophen to control the pain. Visit a doctor for a proper diagnosis. Get a cast put on your ankle if it's broken. Get closed reduction done if your ankle is both fractured and dislocated. Talk to your doctor about surgery if you have a severe injury. Get some rest. Consider taking some over-the-counter pain medication. Use crutches to support yourself. Avoid getting your cast wet. Make an appointment with a physical therapist. Rehabilitate your ankle to regain strength and range of motion. Perform ankle joint stability exercises. Do an ankle joint mobility exercise. Perform calf raises. Try toe towel curls. Increase your flexibility with a calf stretch. Try doing tennis ball rolls.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Dead-Skin-Using-Sugar
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How to Remove Dead Skin Using Sugar
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To remove dead skin using sugar, mix 1 part sugar with 1 part coconut oil to create a thick paste. For a more powerful body scrub, mix 2 parts sugar and 1 part coconut oil. Wash your skin with warm water and a mild cleanser, then apply the scrub and rub in gentle, circular motions for 2-3 minutes. Rinse your skin with warm water, then pat it dry. Limit your use of sugar scrubs to twice weekly!
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Start with brown, white, or raw sugar. Raw sugar makes a powerful body scrub, great for feet and extra-rough skin. Brown sugar has smaller grains and plenty of liquid, making it the most gentle option. Granulated white sugar falls somewhere in between: it has the same size grains as brown sugar, but none of the liquid molasses. Before you begin, be aware that the scrub can cause temporary blotchiness in sensitive skin. Just in case, wait until you have an evening to yourself before trying it for the first time. Choose your oil. Olive oil is a common option, but any natural carrier oil will work. The oil makes it easy to apply the sugar, and can help your skin health at the same time. Choose the oil based on your skin type and personal preference: For greasy skin, try safflower oil, hazelnut oil, or grapeseed oil. For very dry skin, try coconut oil, shea butter, or cocoa butter. Optionally, whip it for easy spreading. To avoid strong scents, try grapeseed oil, safflower oil, and sweet almond oil. Mix the sugar with oil. Mix 1 part sugar with 1 part oil for a basic scrub, forming a thick paste. For a more powerful scrub, try 2 parts sugar and 1 part oil. If using white sugar, the 2:1 recipe is recommended. If you are treating an area with acne or broken blood vessels, use a very mild scrub, such as 1 part sugar to 2 parts oil. Exfoliants can make these conditions worse. Mix in essential oil (optional). For additional scent and possible health benefits, add an essential oil. No more than 1 or 2 percent of the scrub should be essential oil. Typically, you can use up to 48 drops per cup (240mL) of other ingredients, or three drops for every tablespoon (15mL). Thyme, mint, and other herbs and spices make antimicrobial essential oils. These are good at fighting acne but may cause irritation in sensitive skin. Do not use citrus oils, cumin, ginger, and angelic oils before talking to your doctor. These can trigger photosensitivity, a painful reaction to sunlight. Wash your skin. If your skin is dirty, use mild soap and warm water to wash it. If your skin is clean, just wet it thoroughly. Scrubbing dry skin can cause redness or irritation. Hot water or harsh soaps can irritate your skin, leaving it tender and painful. Skin in this state might hurt even when a gentle sugar scrub is used. Scrub with the sugar mixture. Gently rub the sugar and oil mixture over your skin. Rub in circular motions, for about 2 or 3 minutes in each area. Rub gently; any pain, discomfort, or redness means you are scrubbing too hard. Rinse and dry. Rinse off with warm water, and pat dry. Optionally, apply a moisturizing lotion, or an additional touch of oil without the sugar. Repeat no more than once every two weeks. Your outer layer of skin takes about two weeks to replace itself. If you repeat the scrub before this time is up, you may damage living cells instead of removing dead ones. This leads to red, raw skin, which may be vulnerable to infection. Know the risks. Although sugar is fairly gentle, it is still an abrasive exfoliant. This means it tears away the dead skin, and can irritate sensitive areas such as the face. Most people rarely have issues, but overuse or improper use can leave your face raw or painful. Sugar scrubs can create micro-tears in the skin on your face, and over time, these micro-tears can lead to acne, fine lines, wrinkles, and dullness. Abrasive scrubs are not recommended for people with acne or broken blood vessels on their face. Start with brown or white sugar. Brown sugar is the softest type of sugar, making it the best choice for the sensitive skin of your face. Granulated white sugar contains less liquid and tends to feel a little grittier. It can work, but it's not recommended if you have sensitive skin. Mix with oil or honey. Mix 2 tbsp (30mL) sugar with 2 tbsp (30mL) vegetable oil. Alternatively, use honey instead of oil. Honey is mostly sugar, so it provides additional exfoliation. Safflower oil and olive oil are common options. For more advice on which oil to pick, refer to the body scrub section above. Wash your face. If your face is dirty, clean it with mild soap and warm water. Otherwise, just make sure that your skin is completely wet, so the sugar scrub will not feel too abrasive. Wash your hands as well to avoid introducing contaminants onto your face. Tie back your hair. If necessary, tie back your hair to keep it away from your face. The sugar scrub will rinse off in the shower, but avoiding sticky hair in the first place is the way to go. Scrub your skin with the sugar. Scoop out 1-2 tablespoons (15–30mL) of your sugar exfoliant onto your fingertips. Place this on the location you want to remove dead skin, and being scrubbing in a circular motion. Do this gently for 2-3 minutes to remove the dead skin. While you're scrubbing, you should feel no pain or discomfort. If you experience pain or tenderness, you are rubbing too hard with the sugar. Clean off the sugar. Wet the softest washcloth you have under warm water, then wring it out. Lay it over your face and gently rub off the sugar. Repeat until clean. Dry and moisturise your skin. Use a clean cloth to pat your skin dry. If you are looking to soften your skin, you can finish up the process by massaging a moisturising lotion into your skin. Do this for 1-2 minutes, and your skin should be silky smooth and soft.
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Start with brown, white, or raw sugar. Choose your oil. Mix the sugar with oil. Mix in essential oil (optional). Wash your skin. Scrub with the sugar mixture. Rinse and dry. Repeat no more than once every two weeks. Know the risks. Start with brown or white sugar. Mix with oil or honey. Wash your face. Tie back your hair. Scrub your skin with the sugar. Clean off the sugar. Dry and moisturise your skin.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Freeze-Runner-Beans
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How to Freeze Runner Beans
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To freeze runner beans, trim the ends off, then de-string each bean by grabbing the small seam on one end and pulling it to the other end. Cut the beans into 1 to 2 inch pieces, then boil them for 3 minutes in a pot of water. After 3 minutes, plunge the beans into an ice bath and let them sit for 1-3 minutes. Then, pat the beans dry and pack them into freezer bags, leaving 1 inch of headspace at the top. Put the bags in your freezer and your beans will keep for 1 year!
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Rinse the beans under a stream of cool water. Place the fresh runner beans in a colander or wire strainer and run them under the faucet to wash away dirt and loose debris. Shake the colander or toss the beans by hand periodically to ensure that the water reaches every part. When you're finished, allow the excess water to drain out of the colander completely. A thorough rinse is also useful for doing away with traces of insects, fertilizer, or chemicals, which are often found on freshly-picked veggies. Trim the ends off of the beans. Gather up a handful of beans and line them up end-to-end on your cutting board. Then, using a sharp kitchen knife, slice off the fibrous stem ends and discard them. Repeat the trimming process for all of the beans you plan on freezing. Only remove about ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm) from each end so there's still plenty of edible bean left. De-string the bean pods. Like many other varieties of shell beans, the pods of runner beans are held together by a tough string running down the middle. You can remove this string by grabbing it from one end and pulling it away it one easy motion. Make sure you strip the entire string, or you could end up chewing on it later. The pod strings will usually start coming away on their own when you trim the stems. If not, you may have to get them started with your fingernail. Try not to miss any strings. Getting them stuck in your teeth isn't a pleasant experience. Cut the runner beans into 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) pieces. If you tend to slice or break your beans into smaller segments, doing it before you put them into storage will save you valuable time later on. Use clean, precise cuts to reduce the beans to a uniform size. Many chefs prefer square or diamond-shaped pieces for beans with broad, flat pods like runners. Avoid cutting them too small, or they'll be more likely to stick together when frozen. Once you've precut your runner beans, you'll be able to simply take them out of storage, dump them into a pot of water, and cook them to a tender, flavorful finish without the hassle of having to prepare them. Bring a pot of water to a low boil. Heat the water until it just begins to bubble, then adjust the temperature to keep it constant. You want the blanching water to be hot enough to hydrate and soften the runners, but not so hot that it cooks them too quickly. Make sure the pot you're using is big enough to hold all of the beans you want to freeze. If you're preparing a particularly large crop of fresh beans, you may need to blanch them in separate batches. Adding a pinch of salt to the blanching water may also help preserve the runner beans longer. Boil the runner beans for 3 minutes. Drop the beans into the pot a handful at a time and give them a stir. Set a timer for 3 minutes and leave the pot uncovered. At the end of this time, the beans should appear plump and bright green. As the beans boil, they'll take in moisture, which will allow them to freeze easily. Keep an eye on the color and texture of the runners as you're blanching them. If they look exceptionally dark or soft, they may be in danger of overcooking. Cool the beans in cold water for 1-3 minutes. Turn off the cooktop and drain the boiling water from the pot. Plunge the runner beans into a separate bowl filled with equal parts water and ice to neutralize the heat of the boiling water. Alternatively, you can transfer them back to the colander and run them directly under the faucet. Placing the beans in cold water immediately after blanching them will halt the heating process and prevent them from actually cooking through. It will also lower their temperature gradually in preparation for freezing. Pat the beans dry. Remove the beans from the ice bath or colander and pour them out onto a layer of folded paper towels. Dab them lightly by hand to soak up as much of the remaining moisture as you can. Afterwards, let them finish air drying for 5-10 minutes. The drier the beans are when they go into the freezer, the less likely they are to form ice crystals. Be careful not to mash or break the beans while you're drying them. They might be a little soft from blanching. Freeze the beans on a baking sheet before you bag them (optional). Small pieces of food are prone to clumping when they're all thrown into the same container together. One way around this is to spread out and chill the runners on another surface first. Afterwards, you can funnel them into a freezer bag and put them away without having to worry about them coming out in one big chunk. Wait until the beans harden to the touch before consolidating them into a single container. This will typically take 20-30 minutes, though you can leave them in the freezer until they're fully frozen, if you prefer. Place the blanched beans into plastic freezer bags. Once the beans have had ample time to dry, they can go directly into their storage container. Fill each bag roughly ¾ of the way full, leaving about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of headspace at the top. Press the bags from both sides to gently squeeze out the excess air, then seal them up. Check your freezer bags for holes, splits, broken seals, and other signs of damage before closing them up. If you're short on storage bags, a large, resealable plastic container with a locking lid will also do the trick. For more convenient preparation, consider dividing up the beans into precise portions and bundling them in plastic wrap within each individual bag or container. Label the bags with the contents and date. Write the name of the item and the current month somewhere in plain sight on each bag. That way, you'll be able to keep track of how long they've been in storage. Keep the labels facing the front of the freezer so you can check them at a glance. There's no need to get too specific with the date, since runner beans and similar veggies will last many months in the freezer. Store the beans for up to a year. They'll have the best flavor and texture if used within 3-4 months. However, their high water content coupled with their frigid surroundings means they'll never really go bad, so you're free to keep them put away until you need them. Be sure to use up the beans in the order that you put them into storage. When cooked, frozen runner beans should retain most of their original flavor and texture. Watch out for freezer burn. Dispose of the frozen runners if they begin to wrinkle or take on a dull color, or if large chunks of ice have begun forming on them inside the bag. Similarly, you'll want to play it safe and throw out bags that show signs of damage after being placed in the freezer. When exposed directly to the cold for too long, the taste and texture of the beans will effectively be ruined. Blanched runner beans are more likely to freezer burn if you don't dry them off thoroughly before packing them up. It's a good idea to replace runner beans that have been frozen for longer than a year with a new batch, even if they still look edible. After enough time, bacteria can begin slowly creeping in, making them unsafe to eat.
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Rinse the beans under a stream of cool water. Trim the ends off of the beans. De-string the bean pods. Cut the runner beans into 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) pieces. Bring a pot of water to a low boil. Boil the runner beans for 3 minutes. Cool the beans in cold water for 1-3 minutes. Pat the beans dry. Freeze the beans on a baking sheet before you bag them (optional). Place the blanched beans into plastic freezer bags. Label the bags with the contents and date. Store the beans for up to a year. Watch out for freezer burn.
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https://www.wikihow.com/Help-Stop-Pollution
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How to Help Stop Pollution
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To help stop pollution, try to find alternatives to driving, like riding your bike or taking public transportation, in order to lessen the impact of carbon emissions. You can also buy items with minimal packaging, and make sure to recycle things like glass, plastic, and paper whenever you can. At home, lower the temperature on your water heater and thermostat, and use energy efficient bulbs to save energy. Additionally, try to buy used items, like furniture and clothes, to keep them out of landfills and avoid wasting more resources.
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Walk or ride your bike whenever possible. One of the best things you can do to help stop pollution is to stop using your car for short trips. If the weather is nice and you don't have too far to go, consider walking or riding your bike. You will help reduce air pollution and you will get some exercise and fresh air in the process. Use public transportation. Riding the bus, train, or subway is another great way to avoid using your personal vehicle and reduce carbon emissions. If you have access to good public transportation where you live, take advantage of it. Since you won't have to worry about keeping your eyes on the road, you can take advantage of the time to read, catch up on news, or just relax. Consolidate your trips. Making lots of little trips over the course of a few days contributes more pollution to the environment every time you hop in your car. Instead of running your errands over the course of a few days, try to consolidate them into one round trip. Consolidating your trips into one long trip will also save you money since starting your car when the engine is cold consumes 20% more fuel than driving your car. Carpool to school or work. Long commutes to school or work are just part of life for many people. If walking and public transportation are not good options for you, consider joining a carpool to your school or place of work. By taking turns driving and riding with others, you will reduce carbon emission and you will also save on gas money each week. Carpooling is also a great way to develop friendships with your coworkers and reduce the stress of your commute. Get regular maintenance on your vehicle. In addition to finding ways to use your car less, keeping your car in good condition can also help reduce carbon emissions. As an added bonus, keeping your car in good condition will also help avoid more major problems with your vehicle. Get regular maintenance on your car to keep it running well. Get an oil change every three months or 3,000 miles. Keep tires inflated according to your vehicle's recommendations. Get your air, oil, and fuel filters changed according to your vehicle's recommendations. Drive safely. Unsafe driving habits also contribute to pollution, so by becoming a safer driver you can help reduce air pollution. Safe driving habits can also save you money by reducing the amount of fuel that your car wastes. When you are behind the wheel, remember to be safe by: Applying gentle pressure to gas and accelerating slowly Driving at or below the speed limit Keeping your speed steady (Try using cruise control, if you have it.) Giving yourself plenty of time to stop Consider purchasing an electric or hybrid car for your next vehicle. Electric cars run on electricity alone, so they are zero emission vehicles and the best at not releasing emissions. Hybrid cars use a combination of electricity and fuel to run. While electric cars are the least polluting, both options will help stop pollution. Although they still use some gas to run, hybrid cars have much better fuel economy than regular cars and emit fewer greenhouse gases than traditional cars. They also require less maintenance than gas powered cars. Keep in mind that the purchase price of electric and hybrid cars is higher than most conventional cars. Electric cars can be charged at home, which is advantageous for those who have solar panels at home. Choose local food whenever possible. Transporting food from across the country and around the world requires a considerable amount of fuel. This excessive fuel use contributes to air pollution. Instead of purchasing food that has traveled thousands of miles to get to your table, choose food that comes from nearby farms and that has been grown using sustainable methods. Before you buy, ask the farmer or grower about their techniques to learn about their efforts to stop pollution. Visit a local farm stand or farmers' market to get fruits and vegetables straight from the people who grew them. Shop at your neighborhood food cooperative to find locally grown and produced foods. Check your neighborhood grocery store for locally grown produce and other local items. Reduce or eliminate your consumption of animal products from factory farms. Factory farms are large efficiency-focused operations that produce animal products such as meat, milk, cheese, and eggs. Factory farms are huge contributors to pollution and some of them contribute as much air and water pollution as a small city. To help stop pollution, stop buying and eating animal products that come from factory farms. If you are advised not to completely give up animal products, try to reduce your consumption to once or twice a week. You could also look for sustainably raised meats, such as grass-fed beef, or inquire about venison from a local hunter. If you want to have an even bigger impact, consider going vegetarian or vegan. Choose organically grown fruits and vegetables. Organic fruits and vegetables are grown by farmers who use sustainable farming practices. For example, they avoid using chemical pesticides, which contribute to pollution of ground water. By choosing organic fruits and vegetables you will be contributing to farming practices that are better for the environment. Look for fruits, vegetables, and other products that are labeled as “organic” or “certified organic.” Grow your own fruits and vegetables. Starting a garden in your own backyard is another great way to help stop pollution. Plants and trees convert carbon dioxide into oxygen and act as a carbon sink, which means less pollution. In addition, the fruits and vegetables that you grow in your backyard will take the place of store bought items that may have had to travel many miles to end up on your plate. If you are new to gardening, start small. Plant a small container garden on your patio or plant a few tomato, lettuce, and cucumber plants in your backyard. You can increase the size of your garden over the years as you become more comfortable with gardening. Turn off lights and electronics when you are not in the room. You can also unplug them for even more energy savings. Plugging electronics into a power strip is also a good strategy because you can easily turn off the power strip and turn off all of the electronics at the same time. Look for small changes that can lead to big energy savings. There are lots of little things that you can do to make sure that you are conserving as much energy as possible. Keep these strategies in mind to start saving energy. Keep the temperature on your water heater set to 120℉ (49C). Heating water accounts for between 14-25% of your home's energy. Keeping the water heater set at 120℉ (49C) will help save some of that energy. Air dry clothes. You can reduce your carbon footprint by 2,400 pounds a year by hanging your clothes out to dry instead of using a dryer. Air or hand dry dishes. Make a dent in the 2.5% of your household energy that is expended by using a dishwasher. Open the dishwasher door instead of running the dry cycle on your dishwasher. Choose energy efficient light bulbs. Compact fluorescent light bulbs (CFLs) can save up to 75% of the energy that goes toward lighting your home. These bulbs also produce less heat than normal light bulbs. Keep your thermostat set to 78℉ (25C) in warmer months and 68 (20C) in the colder months. By reducing the amount of work that your heating and air condition systems have to do year round, you can make a big difference in your energy use. Consider turning your heater down to 55℉ (13C) at night during colder months and pile on the blankets to stay warm. Consider using fans instead of an air conditioner to help control the temperature in your home. Fans use much less energy than air conditioners. Make sure your windows and air ducts are well-sealed. Simple solutions like caulking around the frames of your windows and re-glazing the panes, or you may need to have them replaced. You can also use window treatments and coverings in the winter to reduce the amount of heat that escapes your home. If you decide to purchase new windows for your home, look for windows that have been designated as ENERGY STAR® windows. These windows have to meet certain requirements for energy savings. Look into your Community Choice Energy options. Some cities allow residents to purchase energy sourced from sustainable prices at a lower cost than they might normally be able to get. For example, you may be able to purchase energy sources from wind, solar panels, or water instead of from coal or gas. Check to see if this is an option in your city. See if fuel switching is an option for you. Fuel-switching involves changing your energy sources from less sustainable ones, such as gas, to more sustainable ones, such as electricity. For example, you could replace a gas stove with an electric stove in your home, or change over from a gas furnace to electric heat. Buy used items whenever possible. By buying used products, you will help reduce the demand for new materials to be created. You will also save money. Check local thrift shops, used furniture and appliance stores, and local ads to find used items. Buy reusable items. Lots of waste is generated by disposable cups, plates, utensils and storage containers for food. Instead of contributing to the waste in landfills by using disposable dinnerware, primarily use reusable items. Choose items with minimal packaging. The packaging used to protect food requires new raw materials and energy to create. Buy foods that use minimal packaging, such as bulk items or unpackaged produce. If you must buy something that is packaged, try to choose items with the least amount of packaging possible. Avoid buying products packaged with styrofoam. Styrofoam is a common packaging material, but it contributes to much of the waste in landfills because it is difficult to recycle. Styrofoam production also contributes to pollution through the release of hydrocarbons. Recycle everything that you can. Almost everything that you buy can be recycled. Try to avoid products that do not have a recycle symbol on the package or that are made of mixed materials that may not be easy to recycle. Check to see if your waste management company offers recycling pick up services. If not, you can always take your sorted recyclables to a nearby recycling center. Purchase items made from recycled materials. By purchasing items that have been made from recycled materials, you will be helping to reduce the amount of new materials that need to be produced. Look for items that include the terms “recycled content-product” or “post consumer content.” Items made from recycled materials will also often provide a percentage to indicate how much of the product's material came from recycled content. Look for items that have higher percentages than others. Use fewer and environmentally friendly chemicals. Chemicals we use to wash our homes, cars and even our bodies get washed down the drain and into the sewer system, but they often end up in the groundwater. These chemicals aren't good for the plants and animals that make up our ecosystems, and they aren't healthy for human consumption, either. Whenever possible, use natural, healthy alternatives to chemicals. For example, instead of using a heavy-duty cleaner to scrub your bathroom or kitchen, use a mixture of vinegar and water or a baking soda and salt paste. These natural household supplies get the job done just as well, and they won't pollute the water when you wash them down the drain. Try making your own laundry detergent and dish soap. If you don't have the time, buy detergent made with all-natural ingredients. When you can't find a good alternative to a toxic item, use the least amount you can get away with and still get the job done. Don't use pesticides and herbicides. These powerful chemicals are sprayed directly over the ground, and when it rains they seep deeper and get into the groundwater. You probably just want aphids to stop eating your tomatoes, but spraying the garden with pesticide will do a lot more than that when it gets into the groundwater that humans and other organisms need to survive. Don't flush medication. Large doses of medication are difficult for water sanitation systems to remove from the water supply, and they end up impacting everyone who drinks the water. Each medication on the market has specific instructions for how it should be disposed. If you need to throw medication away, find out the proper way to do it instead of resorting to flushing. There are a few highly controlled medications that authorities recommend flushing in order to keep them out of the wrong hands. These are exceptions to the general rule that medications should not be flushed. Check with your local pharmacy or police department to find out if they provide containers for medication disposal. Dispose of toxic waste properly. Some substances should not be thrown out with the trash, because they'll seep into the ground and poison the groundwater. If you have a toxic chemical and you're not sure how to throw it away, contact your local sanitation department to find out where there's toxic waste disposal site. Take it there to make sure it gets handled properly. The US Environmental Protection Agency has a list of different types of toxic waste here. Keep in mind that items like CFLs, batteries, and other special products require special recycling. Some states even require these items to be recycled in order to prevent mercury from ending up in water and soil. Check with your waste management company to find out what options they offer for recycling these items. Conserve water. It's important to take good care of the water we do have and conserve it as much as possible. Wasting water uses up a valuable resource and has a big effect on the environment. It's easy to take measures in your daily life that help you use less water and preserve the health of your region's ecosystems. Here are a few ways to save water: Fix water leaks promptly. Use water-saving devices on your faucets and toilets, like a low-flow showerhead. Don't wash dishes with the water constantly running. Replace old toilets and appliances with newer models that use less water. Don't water your lawn excessively, especially if you live in a dry area. Learn about the major polluters in your area. Go to your library, do internet research, and talk to people who can tell you about the major sources of pollution where you live. Learning as much as you can will help you have a better understanding about pollution. While individuals can do their part to keep the air and water clean, corporations with environmentally damaging industrial practices are the main culprits. In order to protect the water and air where you live, it's important to find out what's putting them in danger. Tell people about what you know. Even though a lot of people are concerned about stopping air pollution, many don't understand the severity of the problem or aren't sure what to do about it. Since you've done some research on pollution, use your knowledge to make a difference by talking about it with other people. The more people know about pollution, the more likely we will collectively find a way to stop it. Just talking about pollution with other people can lead to interesting discussions. Be prepared with answers for people who don't think there's anything they can do to help stop it. Pollution and the damage it causes is a very serious topic that some people may be averse to discussing. As someone who cares about this issue, be sensitive to others' perspectives and find ways to help them gain a deeper understanding of what's happening to the earth. Write an article for your school or local newspaper. Spreading the word by publishing information about how to stop pollution is a great way to help others become more aware of the problem. Pen an editorial that discusses both the problem and solutions that people can begin to implement in their daily lives starting right away. Protest local polluters. Is there a certain factory or industry in your area that's contributing to the pollution of your local environment? You can make a difference by being vocal about what's going on and joining up with others who want to keep your environment clean and safe. Do online research and find out more about the state of things in your particular region. Change starts at home, and becoming a local activist is the best way to make a difference. Join an environmental group. There might be an existing group working on stopping pollution in your area. If you can't find one, you and your friends might start a group that meets once a week or more often to discuss issues and brainstorm ideas for what you can do to help. Get others to join by spreading the word on Facebook, Twitter and by posting signs around your neighborhood. Host events that will help spread the word about pollution and give people the opportunity to do something about it. Here are a few ideas for events: Hold a river or creek cleanup. Host a screening of a documentary about pollution. Visit schools to talk to kids about how they can help stop pollution. Contact your local representative to speak up about your views on keeping water chemical-free. Join a group that plants trees to help clean the air. Become a bike activist. Work to have safe paths built in your city.
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Walk or ride your bike whenever possible. Use public transportation. Consolidate your trips. Carpool to school or work. Get regular maintenance on your vehicle. Drive safely. Consider purchasing an electric or hybrid car for your next vehicle. Choose local food whenever possible. Reduce or eliminate your consumption of animal products from factory farms. Choose organically grown fruits and vegetables. Grow your own fruits and vegetables. Turn off lights and electronics when you are not in the room. Look for small changes that can lead to big energy savings. Keep your thermostat set to 78℉ (25C) in warmer months and 68 (20C) in the colder months. Make sure your windows and air ducts are well-sealed. Look into your Community Choice Energy options. See if fuel switching is an option for you. Buy used items whenever possible. Buy reusable items. Choose items with minimal packaging. Recycle everything that you can. Purchase items made from recycled materials. Use fewer and environmentally friendly chemicals. Don't use pesticides and herbicides. Don't flush medication. Dispose of toxic waste properly. Conserve water. Learn about the major polluters in your area. Tell people about what you know. Write an article for your school or local newspaper. Protest local polluters. Join an environmental group.
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