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https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Legal-Document-for-Money-Owed	How to Write a Legal Document for Money Owed	To write a legal document for money owed, start by listing your name and address, along with the same information for the borrower. Next, include the payment provisions based on the type of loan you're providing. For example, if you choose an installment loan with interest, state that the borrower will make x payments over a period of time, with part of the payment going towards the interest. Then, specify whether the loan will be unsecured, or secured with collateral. Finally, have the borrower sign and date the promissory note.	Think of a promissory note as a negotiable instrument. A negotiable instrument is a special writing that can be transferred from one person to another and exchanged for money. If you want to make a promissory note non-negotiable, meaning the note will not be able to be transferred from one person to another, you must simply write "non-negotiable" somewhere on the promissory note. For example, assume you loan money to a friend and execute a promissory note. The promissory note requires your friend to repay the amount loaned, plus interest, on a certain date. At this point, you are considered the "holder" of the promissory note, because you have possession of the note and can ask your friend, "the borrower," for the amount of money owed on the date agreed upon. However, because a promissory note is usually negotiable, you may transfer your right to collect to your brother. If you do this, your brother will become the holder of the note and will be able to ask your friend for the money owed when it becomes due. However, let's now assume the promissory note was made non-negotiable. If this is the case, you will not be able to transfer your rights as the holder to another person (i.e., your brother), and only you will be able to collect from the borrower (i.e., your friend). Understanding the idea of a negotiable instrument will help you in creating a promissory note that achieves your desired intentions (i.e., whether you want the note to be negotiable or non-negotiable). Know the difference between a note and a draft. A note is a promise to pay money while a draft is an order to pay money. Before you create a promissory note, you should try and understand these subtle differences. When you create your promissory note, be sure you word the note in such a way as to make it a promise and not a demand. The most common example of a draft is a bank check. A bank check effectively orders a bank to pay the person presenting that check the amount owed. The most common example of a note is a promissory note, which you know is a promise by a borrower to pay a holder an amount owed. Meet the requirements of a legally acceptable promissory note. In order to create a legally enforceable promissory note, the law generally requires that certain criteria be fulfilled. Most states follow the Uniform Commercial Code ("UCC"), which requires that: The note be in writing, be signed, and promises the payment of money; The promise must be unconditional; The amount of money must be a fixed amount (with or without interest); The instrument must be payable to holder; The promise must be payable at a definite time; and The promise must not include any other act in addition to the payment of money. Contemplate an installment loan without interest. If you choose to offer this type of loan, the borrower will pay off the loan in equal payments over a specified period of time. With this type of loan, you will include a payment provision in your promissory note that looks like this: "In return for a loan Borrower has received from Lender, Borrower promises to pay to Lender the amount of $[total loan amount - principal]. Borrower will make equal installments of $[monthly payment amount] per month until the principal is paid in full. Payments will be due on the [date of monthly payments] day of each month, beginning on [date first monthly payment due]." This type of payment plan is good for loaning small amounts of money to people you are close with. If you are making a loan of more than $10,000 with no interest, the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) may require you to pay taxes in an amount that reflects interest, even if you received none. Think about an installment loan with interest. With this type of loan, the borrower pays off the loan in equal payments over a specified period of time, with part of the payment going towards interest and part of the payment going towards principal. If you choose this type of loan, consider a payment provision that looks like this: "In return for a loan Borrower has received from Lender, Borrower promises to pay to Lender the amount of $[loan amount - principal], plus interest on unpaid principal at the rate of [interest rate]% per year from the date this note is signed until it is paid in full. Borrower will pay back the loan in monthly amortized installments, which include principal and interest, of not less than $[minimum payment] until the principal and interest are paid in full." This type of payment option is great for loaning larger sums of money. If you are loaning more than $10,000 to someone, include interest so you avoid the potential adverse tax consequences that may otherwise arise. Consider a lump-sum payment. Here, the borrower will pay you the money borrowed, plus interest, in one single payment. If you are creating a lump-sum payment provision with interest , use this language: "In return for a loan Borrower has received from Lender, Borrower promises to pay to Lender the amount of $[loan amount - principal], plus interest on unpaid principal at the rate of [interest rate]% per year from the date this note is signed until it is paid in full. Borrower will repay the entire amount owed by [due date]." If you are creating a lump-sum payment provision without interest , use this language: "In return for a loan Borrower has received from Lender, Borrower promises to pay to Lender the amount of $[loan amount] by [date payment is due]." A lump sum payment provision can be used when you want to reduce the potential interest charges incurred by the other party. This is the case because, with a lump sum payment, the party paying back your loan can pay off the loan quicker, therefore avoiding interest payments over an extended period of time. Think about interest only payments. With interest only payments, the borrower will make payments of interest only, and will then pay off the principal in one lump sum. If you use this type of loan, use the following provision: "In return for a loan Borrower has received from Lender, Borrower promises to pay to Lender the amount of $[loan amount - principal], plus interest on unpaid principal at the rate of [interest rate]% per year from the date this note is signed until it is paid in full. Borrower will pay interest of $[amount of interest] on the [date of payments], beginning [date first payment due]. Borrower will pay the principal in full on or before [date by which loan must be repaid], together with any accrued interest." Interest only loan payments are great for those that want low payments during the early life of the loan. This is the case because when you are only making interest payments, they will be lower than a payment that included both interest and principal. However, you may not want to use this type of payment plan if the other party is concerned about the large principal payment that will be due later in the life of the loan. Name a borrower and a lender. At the beginning of the promissory note, you will want to include the borrower's information and your information (the lender). This provision should simply include everyone's name and address. Provide a statement of negotiability. Towards the beginning of your promissory note, you may want to include a statement clarifying whether the instrument is going to be negotiable or not. If you want to make your promissory note negotiable, all you need to say is, "This note is negotiable." If you want to make your promissory note non-negotiable, simply state, "This note is non-negotiable." Include your payment provision. After your statement of negotiability, insert the payment provision you wrote based on the type of loan you are providing the borrower. Look at the section about choosing the type of loan you will provide for various acceptable provisions. Lay out a late payment clause. Depending on what type of loan you will be offering, you may want to include a late payment clause. A late payment clause will ensure you are compensated in case the borrower does not make their payment on time. If you are offering an installment or interest only payment option, consider the following late payment provision: "If any installment/interest only payment due under this note is not received by Lender within [late fee grace period] days of its due date, the Borrower will pay a late fee of [some percentage]% of the amount of the monthly payment. The late fee will be due immediately. If you want to include an acceleration clause , which will allow you to demand payment in full immediately upon the borrower's late payment, you can use this provision: "If any installment/interest only payment is not received by Lender within [acceleration grace period] days of its due date, Lender may demand, in writing, that Borrower repay the entire amount of unpaid principal immediately. After receiving Lender's demand, Borrower will immediately pay the entire unpaid principal." If you are offering a lump sum payment option, use this provision: "If payment due under this note is not received by Lender within [late fee grace period] days of its due date, the Borrower will pay a late fee of [some percentage]% of the amount of the payment. The late fee will be due immediately. Give payment and notice addresses. Next you will want to include an address where the borrower should send payments, as well as an address where you, the lender, can send any notices. Choose whether the loan will be secured or unsecured. Towards the end of your promissory note, you need to specify whether the loan you are offering will be secured or unsecured. An unsecured loan is a loan supported only by the borrower's creditworthiness, and not by any collateral. On the other hand, a secured loan is a loan that has collateral attached to it. With a secured loan, if the borrower defaults the lender can collect the collateral as a form of repayment. If you are choosing to make the loan unsecured, simply state that the note is unsecured. On the other hand, if you are planning to make your note secured, you will need to include a provision such as this: "Until the principal and interest owed under this note is paid in full, this note will be secured by a security agreement giving Lender a security interest in specified equipment, fixtures, inventory, or other assets." You will then have to describe the property, in detail, that you are securing as collateral. Give the promissory note to the borrower. Once you have decided what type of loan you will offer the borrower and you have drafted the promissory note, you will give the note to the borrower. At this point, the borrower should read over the terms and understand them. Sign the note provide the loan. The borrower will need to sign and date the promissory note once they have read it over. While it is not imperative that you, the lender, sign the promissory note, you can if you wish to. Once the promissory note is signed, you should provide the loan money to the borrower. Fill out a repayment schedule as you go. If you have provided a loan that will be paid back over time, you should consider filling out a repayment schedule as you go. This repayment schedule will help you keep track of payments as they come in, as well as how much is left to be paid back. Generally, a repayment schedule will have the date of the payment, the total amount of the payment, and how much of that payment went to both principal and interest. Know when it is time to confront the other party. Sometimes, when you make a loan to another party, that party does not pay it back as promised. In this type of situation, it is best to follow the language of your contract. However, at some point, you will need to confront the other party and discuss ways you can get your money back. For example, if your contract has a late payment clause, follow that clause and charge the other party a late fee. However, if, after a couple of months of not receiving any payment (including no late fee payments), you should consider confronting the other party and requesting repayment. Clarify that you indeed offered a loan. A lot of borrowers claim the loan they took was actually a gift. If you find yourself in this situation, reiterate to the other party that it was indeed a loan and that you expect to be paid back. Bring a copy of your promissory note to emphasize this fact. Create a post-loan commitment. Even if you already have a promissory note in place, consider writing up a new contract that compliments the original. In this contract, create a large section on repayment and the expectations you have. Deduct the amount owed internally. In some situations, you may be able to deduct the amount owed to you passively. For example, if the person usually does some sort of paid work for you, consider not paying them for their work until your loan is paid off. Have a credit card machine. One excuse people often have is that they cannot make the payments because all they have is a credit card. As a solution, consider purchasing a credit card machine so you can accept their form of payment. There are a number of ways to receive a credit card reader that can easily be installed on your smart phone or tablet. For example, Square offers a free credit card reader so long as you use their payment services. Suggest moneymaking alternatives. If you are not being paid back, suggest to the other party that they need to bring in the funds some how. You may be able to suggest they sell some unwanted items online and use the proceeds to pay you back. Go public. If the other party is not responding to your requests, you can get proactive and make the issue public. Talk to people that know the other party and address the issue with them. This may lead to one of them talking to the other party and persuading them to pay back the loan. Send a demand letter. If all else fails, send a legal demand letter and threaten a lawsuit. The promissory note is a legal contract and if it is not fulfilled, the courts will help you recoup damages. To write a demand letter, address the original terms of your agreement, request repayment, and state what you will do if you do not get paid back (i.e., file a lawsuit).	Think of a promissory note as a negotiable instrument. Know the difference between a note and a draft. Meet the requirements of a legally acceptable promissory note. Contemplate an installment loan without interest. Think about an installment loan with interest. Consider a lump-sum payment. Think about interest only payments. Name a borrower and a lender. Provide a statement of negotiability. Include your payment provision. Lay out a late payment clause. Give payment and notice addresses. Choose whether the loan will be secured or unsecured. Give the promissory note to the borrower. Sign the note provide the loan. Fill out a repayment schedule as you go. Know when it is time to confront the other party. Clarify that you indeed offered a loan. Create a post-loan commitment. Deduct the amount owed internally. Have a credit card machine. Suggest moneymaking alternatives. Go public. Send a demand letter.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Raw-Food-Diet-for-Dogs	How to Make a Raw Food Diet for Dogs	Feeding your dog a raw food diet is possible, but you'll need to work with your vet and do a lot of research to make sure your dog is healthy enough first. Depending on your dog's size, age, and weight, it'll need a certain amount of protein and fat, so you'll need to research this first. This will ensure you don't underfeed or overfeed it. Once you've chosen the raw meat you want to feed your dog, look up how much protein and fat is in the food so you can work out how much to feed your dog.	Understand the risks. One of the problems with feeding a raw diet is not getting the balance right. You can have too much calcium or too little. You need to offer enough variety that your dog gets the nutrients she needs. You may provide too little or too much fat. All of these actions can lead to health problems with your dog. Additionally, you can cause problems if your food is infected with bacteria such as Salmonella or Listeria monocytogenes. Raw foods are more likely to contain these bacteria than dry or canned dog foods. However, some raw dog food followers note that a dog's digestive system is more adept at dealing with these bacteria, as it is not as long and more acidic than ours. Consult with your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can help you find the right balance, as well as help you assess whether your dog is a good candidate for this diet. For instance, most veterinarians would not recommend a homemade raw diet for puppies, as it can be difficult to get the balance of calcium and phosphorus correct. This problem can lead to bone deformities in puppies. Also, dogs with cancer should not be on this diet. Do your research. Different dogs need different amounts of protein, and by reading up on the amount of protein your dog needs, you'll be less likely to cause nutrition problems. For instance, puppies who are 12 pounds (and who will eventually be about 33 pounds) need 56 grams of protein and a maximum of 21 grams of fat per day, while dogs who are about 33 pounds need 25 grams of protein and 14 grams of fat per day. Pregnant and nursing dogs need more, however: a pregnant or nursing dog needs 69 grams of protein and 29 grams of fat per day, if she is about 33 pounds with six puppies. Know how much your dog needs to thrive. Most dogs need about 2 to 3 percent of their weight per day--that is, 2 to 3 percent of the weight they should be for their breed. Therefore, a 30 pound dog needs 0.6 to 0.9 pounds of food per day. Know your food. Research the amount of protein and fat in the food you are providing. You need to understand the nutritional make-up of the foods you are feeding your dog to make sure you are balancing his diet correctly. For instance, 100 grams of chicken (about 3 ounces) has 31 grams of protein and 4 grams of fat. Keep phosphorus and calcium at a 1:1 ratio. Meat is high in phosphorous, while bones are the opposite. Other types of raw foods have a balance, such as fish and eggs. Tripe is also a good source of both. This ratio doesn't mean your dog's diet needs to be 50 percent bone. Rather, it means that the amount of calcium your dog is getting should be roughly the same as the amount of phosphorous he's getting, usually about 10 percent bone to 90 percent meat. Buy a kitchen scale. The best way to know what you're feeding your dog is to measure it out. If you try to eyeball it, what you feed your dog could vary vastly everyday. Branch out. Tripe and chicken feet may sound gross to you, but your dog doesn't think the same way. To him, meat is meat. Plus, these cuts of meat are often cheaper to obtain. You can also try beef trachea, tails, and testicles. Beef and chicken feet are especially nutritious. Feed your dog muscle meats. The majority of what you give your dog should be muscle meat, equal to about 3/4 of her diet. Muscle meats can be from most animals, from cows to chickens to lamb. You can also try other meats, such as duck, moose, deer, turkey, rabbit, and goat. Give your dog a bone. Dogs can and will chew up bones, providing necessary calcium to their diet. Your dog should be getting about 10 percent of his diet from bone. In place of bone, you can use dried, ground eggshells. Pour 1/2 teaspoon in for every pound of meat you feed your dog. When feeding your dog bones, you can use what's known as "raw, meaty bones," or bones that still have some meat on them. Use organ meats but not too often. Organ meats such as liver are fine to feed your dog, and in fact, provide essential nutrients. However, they should only make up about 10 to 15 percent of your dog's diet. Try feeding it for a meal once or twice a week, or adding a few bits of it to your dogs meals several times a week. Liver by itself should be about 5 percent of your dog's diet, while other organs, such as heart, kidney, spleen, and gizzards should make up the other 5 to 10 percent. Add nutrients. The other 5 percent or so of your dog's diet can come from other sources, including vegetables, fruits, and grains. When feeding grains, you should cook before you give them to your dog. If the meat your feeding your dog is corn-feed rather than grass-fed, you may need to add a flax seed oil or fish oil supplement to provide omega-3 fatty acids. You can also try feeding fatty fish twice a week to help counter this problem. You should process vegetables before feeding them to your dog to help her get the most nutrients from them. Try pureeing them or juicing them to help break down nutrients. Alternatively, you can steam the vegetables for a few minutes. Dark, leafy greens are a good choice. Freeze certain meats. Some meats need to be frozen for a specific time period before you feed them to your dog. This process helps kill parasites that could harm your dog. Pork and salmon should be frozen for at least 3 weeks prior to you giving them to your dog. However, some experts recommend never feeding salmon or trout raw. Thaw in the refrigerator. The safest place to thaw meat is in the refrigerator, as it never leaves meat at an unsafe temperature. Be sure to place something under the package to catch any spills. Don't wash your meat. It may be tempting to try to rid your meat of bacteria by washing it, but all that really does is spread the bacteria around. While washing it, you can splash it on the counter tops and around the sink, doing more harm than good. Practice safe handling procedures. Keep all of the utensils you use for preparing raw foods separate from others in your kitchen. Wash them thoroughly in hot water and soap after using them, or put them in the dishwasher. Also, be sure to use disinfectant on any surface that came into contact with the raw food. Avoid certain foods. You should never feed your dog the following fruits and vegetables: onions, corn on the cob, any fruits with pits, avocado pits, hops, raisins, or grapes. You should also not give your dog walnuts, macadamia nuts, raw dough, alcohol, or chocolate. Don't feed cooked bones. When giving your dog bones, stick to raw bones. Cooked bones can splinter, causing problems for your dog. Don't feed weight-bearing bones from large animals. In other words, don't feed bones such as a cow's femur to your dog because they can break teeth and cause digestion problems. Pick up any leftovers. If your dog doesn't finish all of her food, cover it, and put in the refrigerator after she is done to preserve it. Wash your hands. You should wash your hands thoroughly after handling any kind of dog food but especially after preparing raw dog food. Scrub your hands in warm water and soap for at least 20 seconds after handling dog food. Be sure to get under your nails, as well.	Understand the risks. Consult with your veterinarian. Do your research. Know how much your dog needs to thrive. Know your food. Keep phosphorus and calcium at a 1:1 ratio. Buy a kitchen scale. Branch out. Feed your dog muscle meats. Give your dog a bone. Use organ meats but not too often. Add nutrients. Freeze certain meats. Thaw in the refrigerator. Don't wash your meat. Practice safe handling procedures. Avoid certain foods. Don't feed cooked bones. Don't feed weight-bearing bones from large animals. Pick up any leftovers. Wash your hands.
https://www.wikihow.com/Lay-a-Ceramic-or-Porcelain-Tile-Floor	How to Lay a Ceramic or Porcelain Tile Floor	Laying Ceramic or Porcelain tile floor is an advanced project, which may be best left to the professionals. However, if you have the right tools and skills, you can save a bit of money doing it yourself. To prepare the floor, you'll need to lay fiberglass or cement backer board as a base, then apply a leveling compound to even out any holes or divets. When you're ready to lay the tile, you'll need to start from the exact center of the floor and lay the tile in lines toward either wall, leaving a small space between each tile. If you have items in the way, like radiator pipes or bath pipes, you'll need to drill holes in those tiles ahead of time so they can fit in place. Once you've set out where the tiles will go, you'll need to spread tile adhesive on the bottom of each tile and let them set. Finally, after they've set you should apply grout and caulking where needed to connect everything together.	Laying the foundation. An unpleasant question to be faced is "What is your floor made up of?" Plywood is good. But, if you have the typical 1/2" to 5/8" particle board on top of a deck made of 2x8s, you have some work to do. After removal of the base trim, the particle board should be pulled up (this is easiest if you first cut it into about 16" squares)and replaced by plywood. You will need a Skil saw, and if you're doing the kitchen, you'll need a "toe-kick saw." Replace the particle board up to where the tile will stop. While you have the particle board off, you can inspect the deck to make sure it is firmly attached to the floor joists. Now you're ready for leveling compound (if needed). Lay the backer board. You will need to lay backerboard (fiberglass or preferably cement sheets that are usually 3 by 5 feet) as well, or the tile will pop off. Evaluate the space to be tiled. A first phase of evaluation is to determine the size of the room to be tiled (or re-tiled). The number of tiles you will need will depend on the size of the tile you wish to lay, as well as the tile pattern you will like on the floor. Using a tape measure or digital laser tape, measure the room from one wall to the opposite wall, and note the distance. Let's say the measure of this distance is 12 feet (3.7 m). Measure the distance of the opposing walls to each other. Let's say this distance is 7 feet (2.1 m). Multiplying these 2 distances (12 feet x 7 feet) will yield a total area of 84 square feet. Note: These measurements are based on squared dimensions. If the room is not perfectly "squared" (or in this case “rectangle") because of an irregular floor plan (where there might be a small section off of one side, for example), do not factor this space into your measurement. While you will of course need to tile this space, factoring this space into your measurements will affect finding the "center" of the room, which will be discussed shortly. This area is important to note, since it will provide you with an estimate of the number of tiles you will need to purchase to cover the area to be tiled. Decide on your tile size and pattern. Tile comes in different sizes: 4 inch (10.2 cm) by 4 inch (10.2 cm), 8 inch (20.3 cm) by 8 inch (20.3 cm), 12 inch (30.5 cm) by 12 inch (30.5 cm), for example (there are others, too). Tiles can also be laid in different patterns. The total number of tiles you will need will depend on the size and pattern you want. For simplicity's sake, let's assume we are going to use 12 inch (30.5 cm) by 12 inch (30.5 cm) tiles and use a traditional grid design, where tiles are simply laid in pattern like graph paper. Because the area of the room is 84 square feet, we will need about 84 12 inch (30.5 cm) x 12 inch (30.5 cm) (1 square foot) tiles (even accounting for the spaces in between tiles, known as "joints"). However, it is a good rule of thumb for beginners to purchase extra tiles to account for improperly cut or scored tiles, or for breakage. Buy an extra pack or two of tiles to be safe. When laying tile diagonally, a lot of material is wasted as cutoffs. A good rule of thumb here, even for experts, is to buy 15% more tile than the square footage would dictate. Pick a color. You are only limited by your imagination (and the store's stock). Choice of color typically is a matter of individual choice. The only additional step of planning and preparation with regard to color of the tile is with the grout selection. Grout is the "filler" that goes in the spaces between tiles, the joints. It can be grey, white, terra cotta, and so on. Typically, dark tiles with light grout really show the spaces in between tiles, and vice versa. The selection of grout color will really depend on how you would like the floor to look to the eye. There is no hard and fast rule. Prep your space. Be sure that the entire surface is as smooth as possible. You will likely need to use floor leveling compound (available at your do it yourself hardware store) to float (create gradual transitions in the floor's surface) out any divots, holes, or differences in subflooring heights. If you don't "float" out these differences your tile will crack. Your surface is now prepared for tiling. Find your center point. You have already determined the size of your room, which is 84 square feet. Finding the center point is critical for laying the tile. It will determine where you will lay your first tile and the next ones. Measure one wall, for example the 12 foot (3.7 m) wall. At 6 feet (1.8 m), half the distance, mark a point with a pencil. Do the same on the other 12 foot (3.7 m) wall. Using your chalk line, anchor one end at the midpoint of one wall and stretch across to the midpoint of the other. "Snap" the chalk line by lifting it up slightly and letting it hit the ground; this will leave a straight line on the floor. Measure the 7 foot (2.1 m) walls and mark a point a 3 ½ feet on both sides. Rehearse laying out tiles. When you have found your center point, you will notice you will have a "quadrant" design on the floor, or 4 equally sized areas. Starting at the center, "rehearse" your tile pattern by simply laying them on the floor without any adhesive or glue. Place the first tile at the corner nearest the center point. You are only going to work in one quadrant at a time. Begin placing tiles in a straight line towards either wall, leaving a small space in between the tiles. Repeat the same process for the 3 ½ foot line. You will use 3 full tiles and 1 tile cut to 4 inches (10.2 cm), since the size of the 3 joints plus the 1 wall joint equals 2 inches (5.1 cm) and your original tile size was 6 inches (15.2 cm) (6 inches original tile- 2 inches total joint= 4 inch tile). Note that this does not follow the realignment strategy mentioned above. Because this room is "squared," the true center is best left where it actually is. Simply make uniform cuts as they correspond to each side (in this case, you will have 9 inch (22.9 cm) tiles as the wall tiles on the "short" 7 foot (2.1 m) walls and 4 inch (10.2 cm) tiles on the long 12 foot (3.7 m) walls. Follow the same process for the other three quadrants. Because this design is uniform, it is best to follow the same size cuts all the way around. Pre-drill some tiles to fit over items such as radiator pipes, bath pipes, and so on. To achieve this you may have to drain down radiator systems, remove the rad from the wall and take the taps off the pipework. Very time consuming but worth the effort if a minimal look is desired. Your floor will look better if you can drill a hole in the tile and lay the tile over the pipe. Use a diamond hole saw to bore into the tile and drill a perfect hole. If you do not have a hole saw you can use a wet-tile saw to cut a square hole in the center of the tile. Draw a square on the back of the tile in the desired location of the hole. Carefully place the backside of the tile against the wet-saw blade at the midpoint of one of the sides of the square. Gently push the tile against the the blade until the edge of the square is cut. Repeat for the other sides of the square hole. When your floor is rehearsed and all tiles are laid, measured, and cut, and appear to your liking, you are ready to lay the adhesive, Pick up all tiles and set aside. On your prepared surface, begin spreading the adhesive with the notched trowel. You will start from the center point, work only in one quadrant, and apply small sections at a time, following the pattern during the rehearsal. Spread adhesive evenly, then using the notched edge, make a raking motion. You should have grooves neither too deep nor too shallow. Set the first tile in place at the corner lines made by the center point. Do not twist tile; simply press the tile down firmly yet softly. Set tile spacer and then continue with additional tiles. (Remember to set tile spacers after each tile). Use your level to determine degree of level of the tiles as you go along. (Not all surfaces are perfectly level!). If slightly uneven, either manipulate the tile or add a little more adhesive to the floor until level. Usually, after a quadrant is complete, remove the tile spacers so they do not set into the adhesive. Follow this process for the remainder of the floor, making sure to check the level as you go along.. Wait. After the tiles have been set, it is usually advised to wait at least one day (or overnight) to allow the adhesive to dry, or cure. After the adhesive has cured, you will grout the joints. Continue working in quadrants as before. Using a rubber float, apply only enough grout as you can effectively work with. In a diagonal direction, press grout into the joints to an even level with the tile. Skim excess from tile with the rubber float. You will notice a mild “grout haze” on your tiles. Wait a few minutes for the grout to stiffen up in the joints. Use a damp sponge work across the joints, (working along joints can drag out too much grout) to remove grout haze from tiles and finish the joints, make sure not to press too hard on joints. As you work, check each joint is full and smoothly finished. Continue this process with other joints in remaining quadrants. Consider caulk. For joints at the wall and floor interface it is best to use caulk instead of grout. There are benefits to using caulk along wall joints. All tiles may expand or contract depending on temperature fluctuations. The wall joints are also known as expansion joints. Using caulk here will buffer expansion and contraction a bit. Let the floor cure. Wait for the entire floor to cure for about a week before giving it a good mopping to remove remaining grout haze. You may also choose to seal the grout with a sealer to lock out dirt and or grease.	Laying the foundation. Lay the backer board. Evaluate the space to be tiled. Decide on your tile size and pattern. Pick a color. Prep your space. Find your center point. Rehearse laying out tiles. Repeat the same process for the 3 ½ foot line. Follow the same process for the other three quadrants. Pre-drill some tiles to fit over items such as radiator pipes, bath pipes, and so on. Use a diamond hole saw to bore into the tile and drill a perfect hole. When your floor is rehearsed and all tiles are laid, measured, and cut, and appear to your liking, you are ready to lay the adhesive, Pick up all tiles and set aside. Wait. Continue working in quadrants as before. Consider caulk. Let the floor cure.
https://www.wikihow.com/Work-With-Different-Cultures	How to Work With Different Cultures	Being comfortable working with different cultures is a great skill to have in any job field. Try to be self-aware in your workplace, since cultural differences can be small and easy to miss. For instance, while high-fiving might be totally acceptable in some places, it could be offensive in other places. Even ways of communicating may be different across cultures. Try to be patient and open-minded as you encounter differences, and be willing to adapt. As you build relationships with your coworkers, take some time to research their cultures. However, it's also important to get to know them on an individual level, since everyone is different regardless of their culture. If you're ever unsure of something, simply ask! Open communication is key for learning about other people.	Become self-aware. If you have never worked with someone from a different culture before, it can be an adjustment. While you might encounter some challenges, you will likely find it a rewarding experience. Your first step is to put yourself in the right frame of mind. Work on becoming more aware of your words and actions. What seems appropriate to you may not be a cultural norm to another person. Before you give someone at work a high five or a pat on the back, take a moment to consider your actions. Based on what you know about that culture, is touching in the workplace appropriate? A good rule of thumb is to take a moment to consider your words before you speak. Is what you're about to say possibly offensive? If so, figure out a way to rephrase. Practice patience. It may take awhile for you to get used to working with people from different cultures. Don't worry, that's normal. It probably took you awhile to acclimate to your current co-workers, too. Try not to get irritated if communication takes a little extra effort at first. For example, maybe you are now working with someone whose first language is not English. Instead of getting impatient if they don't understand your point, try to treat it as a learning experience. Try saying, "Ok, I can see I'm not making myself clear. How can I help us get on the same page?" Be patient with yourself, too. It may take you some time to adjust to working with your new co-workers or clients, and that is ok. Use humor. Remember that working in a new environment might be intimidating for someone from a different culture. Whether you are on a conference call, or traveling to meet someone face to face, the initial meeting can feel stilted or awkward. Don't be afraid to lighten the mood. Humor is an excellent way to ease tension in the workplace. It can serve as a way to make people feel comfortable and even more connected to each other. Remember that different people have different senses of humor. Before making a joke, try to make sure that it won't be construed as offensive. You can try making a lighthearted joke about something situational. For example, if it's a nasty, rainy day, you can jokingly say, "Lovely day, isn't it?" It may not be the most original comment, but things like that can lighten the mood. Look at issues from a different perspective. Remember that not everyone will come at a discussion from the same angle. Difference in perspective are coming when working with people from different cultures. Don't assume that you are all looking at the issue from the same perspective. Clarify what important terms mean to each individual. For example, in a meeting you could ask, "What does efficiency mean to you?" It's possible that you might think you're working with the same goals in mind, but that you have a different understanding of the process or outcomes. A simple question can help resolve any issues. Once someone explains their perspective, take some time to reflect. Looking at an issue from an alternate perspective can help you find solutions that you might not have considered. Accept differences. Part of choosing the right frame of mind means that you are open to differences. If you go into a new situation aware that people might have different customs than you, you will find it easier to be accepting. Go to work knowing that people from different cultures might work differently than you, and that's to be expected. Be aware that there will likely be differences in communication styles. For example, in some cultures the word "yes" means, "Certainly, I'm in agreement." To others, the word "yes" can mean, "I heard you." Accept that there might be differences in addressing conflict. In some cultures, a face to face conversation might be the norm. For other people, written communication might be more appropriate. When you encounter differences, be willing to be adaptable. You might need to alter some of your habits in order to make the work relationship more constructive. Research different cultures. Maybe your company recently expanded its global operations. You might suddenly find yourself working closely with team members from other cultures. Take some time to work on making these relationships stronger. Spend time learning about other cultures. For example, if you are going to be working closely with your Japan office, study up on Japanese work etiquette. Ask your Human Resources department if they have any resources available. They might be able to direct you towards a helpful website. Head to the local library. The resource librarian can direct you towards references that can give you a solid overview of the culture you're learning about. Be willing to make mistakes. Don't go into this situation afraid to make errors. If you're overly anxious, you might not speak up and share your ideas. You also won't be able to connect with your new co-workers or clients. Just know that mistakes might happen. You might accidentally try to eat your food incorrectly at a client lunch, for example. Laugh it off and apologize. These things happen when you are learning new cultural norms. Say a sincere, "I apologize." Then remember your mistake and don't make the same one twice. Learn to be an ally. Some of your current colleagues might be uncomfortable working with people from different cultures. That can cause unease and stress in the workplace. Build good relationships with people and learn to be an ally for those from other cultures. One of the most effective ways to be an ally is to show that discrimination will not be tolerated. Stand up for people if someone is saying or doing something offensive. For example, maybe one of your co-workers makes an offensive comment about the way your new clients from the Middle East dress. Make it clear that that sort of talk is not acceptable. You can say something like, "You know, just because these people dress differently, that doesn't make them wrong or somehow less than us. Let's be respectful, ok?" Get to know individuals. When you take time to get to know someone, you can find new ways to strengthen your work relationship. Put some effort into building individual relationships. Your work life will be more productive and pleasant. Don't lump people together in a group. For example, avoid making general comments such as, "Those Australians don't have the same work hours that we do." Instead, say, "I need to talk to Anna and Steve about how we can resolve this issue." Thinking of people as individuals is a great way to show respect and build relationships. Make an effort. It might feel difficult to learn to work with new people. This can be especially tricky if you have any sort of communication barriers. However, that doesn't mean that it's not worth your effort. Try to make any newcomers feel welcome. Try saying, "I noticed you bring your lunch. So do I. Do you want to go to the park and eat together tomorrow?" If you are the newcomer, you can find other ways to make an effort. For example, if you're in a new office, you can ask about customs and traditions. For example, you can say, "I noticed that you all seem to support different football teams. Can you tell me a little more about the sport?" Listen to stories. One of the best ways to learn about a new culture is by hearing some personal anecdotes. Ask your new co-workers or clients to tell you some stories. Listen with an interested and curious open mind. Perhaps you have some new clients from South Africa. You can ask them to tell you stories about what life is like there. You can say something like, "What do you typically do for fun after work?" Then you can offer examples of your own experiences. Listening to stories is a great way to form bonds. You'll learn something new, and likely find more commonalities than you expected. Ask questions. Learning to communicate better will help you to work with people from different cultures. One of the most important components of effective communication is asking questions. Questions are a great way to clear up differences and also a good way to get to know people. If something is unclear, just ask a question. For example, you could say, "I noticed that people in this office bow to one another in greeting. Is that something I should do, also?" Try asking open-ended questions. For example, instead of saying, "Am I doing this right?", try asking, "How can I improve my performance?" You'll get a more informative answer. Listen carefully to the answer. When you ask a question, pay attention to the response and try to retain the information. Be sincere. It may take some time to learn to work with new people. Make it clear that you are putting in effort. Make it clear that you are sincere in wanting to better your communications. Do something that indicates you are trying. For example, try greeting someone from a different culture in their language. Most people will appreciate a gesture like that. It won't take much work on your part, but it indicates your sincerity. Smile. This generally means that same thing in most cultures. Take time to reflect. If you have had trouble communicating, spend some time asking yourself where the breakdown occurred. Then try to improve tomorrow.	Become self-aware. Practice patience. Use humor. Look at issues from a different perspective. Accept differences. Research different cultures. Be willing to make mistakes. Learn to be an ally. Get to know individuals. Make an effort. Listen to stories. Ask questions. Be sincere.
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Jewelry-Maker	How to Become a Jewelry Maker	You might make a great jewelry maker if you're detail-oriented, fashionable, dexterous, tech-savvy, and socially adept. If you feel well-suited for the job, then research the types of techniques you'd like to learn, such as jewelry design, engraving, mold-making, or graphic design. Next, look for opportunities to intern at local jewelry stores or studios so you can build your skills, gain practical experience, and begin networking with those in the business.	Consider whether you wish to pursue a formal education in jewelry making. Many jewelry makers entered into the profession after earning a formal degree in Gemology, Jewelry Design, or Accessory Design. However, a formal degree is not strictly necessary. Some reasons to strongly consider a formal education include: If you are brand-new to the profession and have no contacts in the industry If you will need to use advanced software or 3-D printing technology in your jewelry designs If you hope to work for a large jewelry manufacturer that requires formal degrees If you wish to pursue competitive, highly sought-after managerial positions in the industry Consider whether the costs of a formal degree are worthwhile. Even though education can provide one pathway to a successful career in jewelry making, many successful professionals used alternative methods to get their jobs. These strategies include networking, apprenticing, or growing a small, informal side business into a larger company. A formal degree in jewelry making is not necessary for every aspiring jeweler and should be considered carefully. Some reasons not to pursue a degree in jewelry making include: If you wish to pursue jewelry making as a hobby, part-time job, or side business instead of your full-time career If you already have a local client base for your jewelry designs If your jewelry designs can be accomplished without sophisticated tools or technology If you have contacts in the industry who can give you an apprenticeship or entry-level position If you are unable to pay for a degree If you are unable to spend 1-4 years pursuing a degree Choose the skills you wish to learn. There are dozens and dozens of schools, institutes, and programs that provide training in various jewelry making techniques. However, these schools can differ in their emphases and training programs. Before you enroll in a program, decide on the specific set of skills you wish to acquire. That way, you will know whether a program will fit your needs. If you want to open your own independent boutique, you might wish to choose a program that will help you learn how to run your own business or design scarves. If, however, you wish to craft jewelry for a large ring manufacturer, you might want to find a program whose sole focus is on gemology, gem-cutting, and gem-setting. Some possible skills you might wish to learn could include: Metalsmithing and blacksmithing Gem appraisal, cutting, and setting Waxwork Mold-making Engraving Watch repair Graphic design software and technology The history of jewelry making Jewelry design Accessory design (such as scarves, handbags, etc.) Retail management Decide whether you want a certificate, Associate's degree, or Bachelor's degree. There is a wide variety in the types of degrees and certificates you can pursue in jewelry making, from a certificate you can attain in a few weeks to an official 4-year degree from an accredited university. A certificate can teach you one or two specific skills (such as watch repair). An Associate's degree will provide you with a more comprehensive training in the industry. A Bachelor's degree will allow you to attain training in your industry as well as acquire other types of skills and knowledge (such as business administration or the history of design). In general, you can attain a certificate from a local community college or a specialized jewelry institute. You can attain an Associate's degree from a 2-year community college or technical school. And you can attain a Bachelor's in Fine Arts (or BFA) from a 4-year college, university, or art institute. If you're not in the position to pursue a formal degree, you can take a few basic courses at your local community college or art school. One way to help you determine what kind of degree to get is to examine the resumes of people who have the kinds of jewelry making job you want. Do your idols and mentors have a few specialty certificates, or do they have formal degrees? If there is a company you admire, take a look at their job postings to see what their minimal education requirements are. At a few schools, a Master's in Fine Arts degree in jewelry is also possible, though this is likely not the best option for somebody just starting on this career path. Enter a licensed program. No matter what, you will want to attain your education at an institution that is reputable. Make sure that your program is either with an accredited college or university or is affiliated with a major jewelry professional organization, such as the Gemological Institute of America. Be wary of programs that are unaccredited or that are affiliated with for-profit companies: they are more likely to be expensive, delay graduation, and their certificates will not hold as much weight. Build a portfolio during school. Many of the courses you take while in a jewelry making program will require you to create unique jewelry pieces of your own. Perhaps you will design rings, cut gemstones, or create a unique mold for resin. Many programs will require that you complete a portfolio of your projects in order to graduate. However, even if your program does not require it, you should still build a portfolio to help you gain a foothold in the industry. A good jewelry making portfolio should: Look professional. Take clear, well-lit photographs of all of your pieces, and design the portfolio in a professional and attractive manner. Photos are best taken with the jewelry on a back or dark background, with the jewelry itself lit to its best advantage. Demonstrate your versatility. Are you an excellent engraver as well as a metal-smith? Be sure to include examples of all the different skillsets you've acquired at school. Have a compelling narrative. Do not just rely on photographs: try to explain the decisions you made about how to design and craft your pieces of jewelry. What rationale did you use? How do your designs differ from your classmates'? Be selective. During your training, you will likely make a number of mistakes. Only choose the best possible pieces to include in a professional portfolio. Ask a classmate or professor for advice if you are having trouble choosing what to include. Have a physical and a digital version. You will want a hard copy of your portfolio printed on high-quality paper with high-quality ink to show to employers and clients in-person. You will also need a digital copy that is readable on a professional website and that you can email to potential employers or clients. Develop professional networks while in school. During your time in a formal education program, you will have to take a number of exams, studio courses, and also develop a portfolio of your designs and creations. However, if you want to become a jewelry maker, it is important that you consider your education a stepping-stone to a career and not an end-goal in and of itself. Some ways to help leverage your education into a fulfilling life as a jewelry maker include: Asking your teachers and professors to introduce you to other professionals in the community Working or interning at a relevant company during your education Attending networking and professional conferences to meet potential employers Showing your growing portfolio to professionals to get their advice Building a professional website to showcase your skills and portfolio Intern at a local jewelry store or studio. Some jewelry programs will provide placement services that will allow you to find internships to continue building your skills. An internship will allow you to gain practical experience in jewelry design as well as meet new clients, employers and customers. After your internship, you may be offered an entry level position that allows you to sell, inventory, and make light repairs. A senior position will involve collaborating on designs and eventually leading design projects. Understand the start-up costs of jewelry entrepreneurship. Many people become jewelry makers without formal training or education. About 1/3 of jewelers work independently or from home. In some cases, they make jewelry as part of a side business or hobby. In other cases, jewelry making is their full-time career. However, the costs and risks to this path can be quite large. Keep in mind that start-up costs of jewelry making include: Business and self-employment taxes Fees to show your wares at shows or conventions Renting a workspace Equipment for metalsmithing, gem-setting, etc. Supplies (metal, beads, charms, tools, etc.) Fees to maintain a website or collect payments online Consider working for an employer before striking out on your own. Work at a local jewelry store until you have enough capital and experience to start your own business. In order to succeed, you will have to understand the jewelry making business thoroughly, including fashion trends, business expenses, the time involved in making large amounts of jewelry, and sound construction techniques. It is wise for you to become independent only after you have learned the industry backwards and forwards. If, however, you hope to make jewelry as a side business or hobby, there are fewer risks involved and you can simply jump right into making your craft. Choose your style. Jewelry design encompasses as many styles as there are tastes. It's possible to specialize in anything from baroque style jewelry to minimalist jewelry to charm bracelets to body jewelry. Perhaps you love to create vivid, colorful, 3D printed necklaces. Or perhaps you love making steampunk necklaces with octopus pendants. Or perhaps you are passionate about making eco-friendly jewelry out of recycled materials. Concentrate on the style you enjoy most and that allows you to express your creativity while still making saleable jewelry. Though many people initially plan to become designers, some discover that they have a talent for fabricating others' designs or repairing jewelry. Be honest with yourself and select the field you enjoy most. Choose your specialty. There are countless types of jewelry that you could consider making yourself. Some of these can be high-cost and require specialized equipment (such as setting your own diamond rings). Others are lower-cost and can be accomplished with supplies from any art supply store (such as resin pendants). A few kinds of jewelry that are feasible for independent jewelry makers include: Custom engagement rings Charm bracelets Beaded earrings, necklaces, and bracelets Jewelry made of carved wood or other eco-friendly materials Purchase necessary supplies. Depending on the type of jewelry you wish to make as well as the amount you wish to create, your supplies will vary quite widely. Some jewelry makers require microscopes and welding equipment. Others might simply require paper and a simple silver-link chain. Consider carefully the supplies you need to make the jewelry as well as the supplies you might need in order to ship your jewelry safely to clients. If you plan to sell large amount of jewelry, you should develop a relationship with a wholesale provider of jewelry supplies such as metals, chains, gems, and beads. They can provide your supplies at a lower cost. Develop a client base. Many jewelry makers advertise their creations on large websites such as Etsy or Ebay. However, it can be difficult to use web-based clients as your sole source of revenue. Consider other in-person and digital ways to advertise your wares and grow your client base. This will be an important part of your business plan as a jewelry maker. These might include: Art fairs or conventions Charity events Social networking websites and events Demonstrations or classes you might offer locally Tap your networks for positions. Even though jewelers are increasingly gaining positions after a formal education, there is a long-established history of jewelers learning their craft through long-term on-the-job experience. Many family-owned local jewelry stores are still in operation, and family members learn key skills of the trade from their parents or relatives. If you do not wish to enter a formal program, talk to your family members, friends, and acquaintances who are in the industry about opportunities in your area. They can guide you to potential openings where you could learn key skills on-the-job. It is possible that the only job opportunities given to you will seem unrelated to jewelry making. However, even a retail position will give you valuable experience and opportunities to learn jewelry craftsmanship. It is important that you leverage any opportunity you are given so that you can learn the skills required for the field. Maintain relationships in the industry. In many cases, the people you speak with in the industry will not have an open position available. That is normal and understandable and has nothing to do with you. Be sure that you maintain your ties with anyone you network with, even if they do not provide you with a job opportunity right now. After all, they might help you out later. In order to effectively maintain and build a professional network, be sure that you: Write down the names and contact information of any potentially useful person you meet Write thank-you notes to anyone who speaks with you about the industry Ask members of your network out for informational interviews. An informational interview is where you speak with a member of a profession about how to enter it, their own career paths, and any general advice they might have. This is unlike a formal interview, where you are hoping to be given a specific position. Demonstrate your general skills and qualities. If you wish to gain an entry-level position as a jewelry maker without prior experience or certification, you will have to show your potential employer that you have the ability to learn the complicated skills necessary to succeed in the business. Depending on the specific position, your employer will want to make sure that you are: Detail-oriented. Explain to your potential employer how you have handled tasks that require serious detail work and concentration in the past. Fashionable. Employers will want you to be aware of current trends and fashions in the jewelry world. Read fashion magazines and professional publications so that you can show off your knowledge of jewelry design. Dexterous. Have you had experience with careful, fine work with your fingers? For example, perhaps you are an expert typist or can play piano. Think about whether you are physically capable of the physical aspects of jewelry making. Socially adept. Especially if you wish to work in a jewelry store, employers will want you to interact with customers and clients in a polite, friendly way. Tell your potential employer about any customer service experience or client-facing experience you have, even if it was in another industry. Tech-savvy. Many jewelry makers and jewelry store owners require the use of specialized software in order to draft designs, order materials, and handle business affairs. Any software or computer experience you can bring to the table will help your potential employer see how useful you can be, even without specialized jewelry making experience. Look for jobs in jewelry manufacturing plants. If you want to craft jewelry as an entry-level employee, it is likely that your best opportunity for hands-on jewelry making will come from jewelry manufacturing plants. In these companies, most employees learn their crafts on the job. They might specialize in engraving, casting, or setting stones. Once you have acquired a solid set of skills in a large manufacturing plant, you can transfer these skills to other positions in the industry. Ask for extra responsibilities. If you have gotten a position in a jewelry store, it is likely that your entry-level position will not involve the crafting of jewelry--yet. It is more likely that you will have a job in retail or store management. If you have gotten an entry-level position at a local jewelry store, ask your supervisor if you can spend some time getting trained in more advanced positions in your spare time. You may be allowed to observe the licensed jewelers as they work or perform simple tasks under their supervision. This will allow you to begin to build this skillset yourself as well as get some excellent references for future positions.	Consider whether you wish to pursue a formal education in jewelry making. Consider whether the costs of a formal degree are worthwhile. Choose the skills you wish to learn. Decide whether you want a certificate, Associate's degree, or Bachelor's degree. Enter a licensed program. Build a portfolio during school. Develop professional networks while in school. Intern at a local jewelry store or studio. Understand the start-up costs of jewelry entrepreneurship. Consider working for an employer before striking out on your own. Choose your style. Choose your specialty. Purchase necessary supplies. Develop a client base. Tap your networks for positions. Maintain relationships in the industry. Demonstrate your general skills and qualities. Look for jobs in jewelry manufacturing plants. Ask for extra responsibilities.
https://www.wikihow.com/Exchange-Old-Money	How to Exchange Old Money	To exchange your old money, try taking it to your bank. They should be able to exchange cash that is damaged or has been phased out as long as it's within the expiration period. To save you time, search online to see if your cash has passed its expiration date for exchange. You can also call the bank ahead of time to see if they will exchange your cash. If the currency has passed its deadline, you might not be able to exchange it anywhere. However, search eBay to see if people are buying it. Sometimes collectors will buy old currency.	Understand the concept of mutilated currency. If you own U.S. currency that is badly damaged, there are two basic ways to get the currency replaced. The correct method depends on whether or not the currency is considered "mutilated". Mutilated currency is defined as any currency that is damaged to the point where it is difficult to determine the value of the currency, or if at least one half of the currency is not present. For example, if you have a bill that is damaged to the point where only 25% of the bill remains, it would be considered mutilated. Missing or damaged security features also constitute a mutilated bill. Mutilation is typically caused by fire, water, chemicals, burial, or animal/insect damage. Prepare to redeem mutilated bills. If your bill is mutilated, the only way to redeem the currency is by filing a reimbursement claim with the Office of Currency Standards within the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. The Bureau will use trained experts to determine if the currency is valid before any redemption is made. You must mail or personally deliver the mutilated currency to the Bureau of Engraving and Printing. When you submit the currency, you must include a simple letter indicating the estimated value of the currency, your contact information, and how the currency became damaged. With your submission, you should also include your bank account and routing number if you want to be reimbursed via direct deposit. If you choose to be reimbursed via check, include your mailing address and payee information. Mail or deliver the mutilated currency. After you have prepared your letter, you must mail the currency. Mailing mutilated currency involves making sure procedures are taken to reduce the chance of further damage occurring. If the currency is likely to fall apart, pack it gently in cotton, and place the package in a secure container. If the currency was flat when mutilated, never attempt to roll or alter the currency in any way to preserve it. If the currency was in a roll, never attempt to unroll it, and simply mail or deliver it as is. Mail your package to: Bureau of Engraving & Printing, MCD/OFM, Room 344A, P.O. Box 37048, Washington, DC 20013. If you are in the Washington DC area, you can deliver your submission to: Bureau of Engraving & Printing, MCD/OFM, Room 344A, 14th and C Streets SW, Washington, DC 20228 Claims typically take between 6 and 36 months to be fully processed. Understand the difference between damaged and mutilated currency. Any bill that is clearly more than one half of the original bill and does not require any special training to determine its value is considered damaged. Damaged bills typically include dirty, worn-out, slightly torn, or defaced bills. These bills can be simply exchanged at your local bank. Make sure the currency you are exchanging is valid. In the United States, this is typically not a problem. However, elsewhere it is important to make sure the currency is still accepted as legal tender or exchangeable. This can typically be determined either by searching online for the name and value of the currency, or by calling a bank and asking. Check values if it is very old currency. It may be worth more than face value. There are some notes that are worth more to collectors than the face value. For example, silver backed one dollar bills from the U.S. typically sell for more than $1 in decent condition. If this is the case, you should always confirm its value. If you think your currency is old and may have value, check websites that post values by searching "collectible currency values". This will provide a list of price guides. Papermoneyguide.com or coinquest.com could be good starting resources. This is important to consider before simply replacing the currency at the bank. If you have currency from the early 1900s, for example, it may be worth more than the face value and is therefore worthwhile to confirm its value before exchanging. Generally, the older the currency, the more valuable it could be. Call around to find a local bank that can exchange currency. Some banks will only exchange worn, ripped or currency in poor condition for its own customers. Other banks are willing to do it for anyone. It is probably a good idea to call the branch to check if you are headed to a bank where you do not have an account. Exchange worn currency at a local bank. Currency that is still valid, but is simply worn, ripped, or in otherwise poor condition can be replaced at a bank. Deposit the money into any account, and the bank's relationship with their country's central bank and minting service will ensure that it is swapped for fresh currency. You can also just ask to swap it out without depositing it. Find out if the currency is still exchangeable. Sometimes a new government or central bank takes over and phases out an old currency. Other times, a merger with another currency replaces another. The most common example of the latter is the Euro replacing Francs, Lira, German Marks and other European currencies. Most countries that went to the Euro set a final date to exchange old currency. For the first countries that made the change, such as France and Germany, the final date was in 2012. This means that after this point, old Francs are just paper with no value for exchange. Locate a bank to make the exchange. If you are in the currency's home country, it should not be hard to swap the old currency for a new one. Follow the same steps in method 1 at this point. However, if you are not located in the currency's home country, you will have to call banks to see if they can make the exchange. Check different banks for the best exchange rate and lowest fees. If you are making the swap outside the home country for that currency, find the best exchange rate and check on the fees. Since few financial institutions will have the new notes on hand, a bank will often require you to change the money into dollars or a common currency. Every institution will use a slightly different exchange rate so call around to find the best one. Exchange the money. The actual exchange process is very simple. The bank will simply take in your old notes and issue new ones. If you are exchanging a foreign currency for dollars, the bank should also provide a receipt that includes the exchange rate used and any fees. Find a third-party dealer or currency exchange service. Third party money changers can often handle notes that some banks will not accept for exchange. Banks sometimes will not accept money from a country that is not frequently visited. Other times, they will not deal with changing an expired currency for a new one. Shop for the best rate and lowest fees at a third-party service. Every dealer and currency exchange will make money on the spread. This is the difference between what they pay for a currency and what they sell it for. Because the differences are dramatic at times, search for the best rate and lowest fees by calling and writing down the rates from different dealers. Don't forget to ask about any additional fees. A dealer should be able to quote you an exchange rate based on the spot price for that currency. Remember currency markets move so the rate today is not necessarily the rate tomorrow. Replace old European currency using a third-party service. If you can't get to a bank in the issuing country, you can contact a third-party company that handles currency redemption. While if you hold old Francs you are out of luck, Lithuanian litas for example are still convertible into Euros. Companies like Travelex specialize in changing currencies. Several companies of this type exist to provide redemption for defunct currency. These companies work by buying old money from customers at a low rate and exchanging it in bulk with national banks. The Currency Commission is one such company. Using this type of service will provide a lower rate for your exchange, but may be your only option once the issuing government's exchange deadline has passed. Deal with expired currency. If the currency is past its deadline, there may not be any option for exchanging. Sometimes collectors may have interest if it is rare, otherwise you may just have some nicely decorated paper. Check eBay to see if it has any value to anyone.	Understand the concept of mutilated currency. Prepare to redeem mutilated bills. Mail or deliver the mutilated currency. Understand the difference between damaged and mutilated currency. Make sure the currency you are exchanging is valid. Check values if it is very old currency. Call around to find a local bank that can exchange currency. Exchange worn currency at a local bank. Find out if the currency is still exchangeable. Locate a bank to make the exchange. Check different banks for the best exchange rate and lowest fees. Exchange the money. Find a third-party dealer or currency exchange service. Shop for the best rate and lowest fees at a third-party service. Replace old European currency using a third-party service. Deal with expired currency.
https://www.wikihow.com/Cover-a-Black-Eye	How to Cover a Black Eye	To cover a black eye, start by applying a green concealer to your black eye with your finger or a brush, which will help neutralize some of the red and purple tones. Then, apply a regular concealer that matches your skin tone over the green concealer, blending it in with a sponge. Make sure you completely cover the green concealer so your skin doesn't have a green tint. Finally, set the makeup with a setting powder and apply mascara to draw attention away from your black eye.	Wait until any swelling goes down before using concealer. If your black eye is swollen, wait for 3-4 days until the swelling has gone. Make sure that you can open your eye fully before applying any makeup. This is because applying concealer while your black eye is still swollen can interfere with the healing process. When you first get a black eye, you will need to spend a lot of time with a cold compress on it initially. This means that wearing any makeup during this time will be pointless anyway, as it will keep rubbing off with the cold compress. Use your fingers or a concealer brush to apply a green concealer over your black eye. Draw a triangle with the concealer under your eye, with the point towards your cheek. Blend the concealer in carefully within the triangle. Green concealer helps to reduce the red and purple tones of a black eye. If the bruising extends to your eyelid and underneath your eyebrow, use the green concealer in these places too. Use your finger or a concealer brush to dab the green concealer over these areas, before using a blending sponge to gently blend the concealer in. Apply a concealer that matches your skin tone over the first coat. Use the same method of creating an upside down triangle under your eye, and blending it into your skin. Make sure that you cover all of the areas where the green concealer is, so that your skin doesn't have a green tinge. Apply the concealer that matches your skin tone wherever there is bruising around your eye and where you used the green concealer. Repeat the same process of using your fingers or a concealer brush to dab the concealer over these areas, and then a blending sponge to blend it in. The concealer that matches your skin tone will hide the green shade of the first coat of concealer. Your black eye will be well covered. If you don't already own a concealer, many pharmacies and drug stores sell eye makeup in a wide range of tones. Ask the sales assistant, or bring a friend to help you pick the right shade for your skin if you're having trouble. Repeat the same makeup over your uninjured eye. When you are happy with the tone you have created, use exactly the same 2 concealers around your other eye. This makes your face look even and symmetrical, and it will be less obvious that you are trying to cover a black eye. Use the same color foundation on the rest of your face too, as this will help your eye makeup to blend in. Set the makeup with a setting powder. Use a setting powder brush to lightly pat setting powder over your makeup. Pay particular attention to your eye makeup, as this will require slightly more setting powder than the rest of your face. A setting powder will help to prevent your makeup from wrinkling or creasing. Don't use a swiping motion when applying the setting powder as this will brush your makeup off. Apply mascara to divert the focus from the bruising around your eye. Pick a dark brown or black mascara to use. Use a mascara brush to carefully apply mascara to your eyelashes. Mascara will help to take away any shadowing that the bruising causes. Apply a cold compress for 15-20 minutes immediately after the injury. Wrap a bag of frozen peas in a small cloth, and hold it against your black eye. Alternatively, stick a metal spoon in the refrigerator until it's cold, and then press it lightly against your black eye. Frozen peas are a better cold compress than ice cubes because they easily mould around your face. A cold compress will help to limit the amount of swelling by constricting the blood vessels. Reapply the cold compress approximately every 4 hours over the next 24 hours. Take an over-the-counter pain medication if your black eye is painful. Visit your local pharmacy, and pick an analgesic that will help you to cope with the pain over the next few days. Avoid taking aspirin, as this is a blood thinner and can make your black eye look worse. Ask the pharmacist for advice about the best painkiller to take. Visit your doctor immediately if you have any concerns. Blurred vision, bleeding from your eye, a fever, or nausea are all signs that you need to seek immediate medical attention. While a black eye is not normally serious and will often resolve itself within a few weeks, contact your doctor if you have any concerns. These symptoms can suggest a broken bone, increased orbital pressure, or damage to your eyeball. Also see your doctor if your black eye hasn't healed completely within 3 weeks.	Wait until any swelling goes down before using concealer. Use your fingers or a concealer brush to apply a green concealer over your black eye. Apply a concealer that matches your skin tone over the first coat. Repeat the same makeup over your uninjured eye. Set the makeup with a setting powder. Apply mascara to divert the focus from the bruising around your eye. Apply a cold compress for 15-20 minutes immediately after the injury. Take an over-the-counter pain medication if your black eye is painful. Visit your doctor immediately if you have any concerns.
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Tar-out-of-Carpet	How to Get Tar out of Carpet	If you're trying to get tar out of carpet, start by blotting it with a paper towel. Then hold an ice cube against the stain for a minute. When the tar feels hard, use a butter knife or a spoon to scrape up as much as you can. To remove what's left, you can try wetting a cloth with water and dry cleaning solvent and gently dabbing the stain. If that doesn't work, try mixing a little dishwashing detergent with some water and blotting the stain. Got a really stubborn stain? You may need to try a commercial product, like WD-40.	Blot the stain immediately with a paper towel. After the tar stain forms, blot it immediately with a paper towel. Instead of rubbing, pat at the stain using gentle dabbing motions to lift the tar. Be sure to blot only the stained area to avoid spreading the tar to clean areas of carpet. Make sure to start blotting at the stain as soon as it forms. Keep blotting until no more tar is lifted. Freeze the tar using an ice cube. A powerful way to remove fresh tar is to freeze and harden it so that it's easy to scrape off. To freeze the tar, hold an ice cube against the stained area of carpet for at least a minute. After about a minute, touch the tar and feel whether it has hardened. If it has not, hold the ice cube against the stain until the tar has fully hardened. Scrape up any hardened tar with a butter knife or spoon. After you have finished freezing the tar, use a butter knife or spoon to scrape up any tar that may have hardened into the fibers of the carpet. Because the tar has frozen, the tar should come off in crumbles. Try not to be too rough as you scrape, as this can damage the carpet further. Scraping and blotting should have reduced a significant amount of the stain, but it's likely that you will need to use a cleaning solvent to get rid of the entire stain. Wet a cloth with water and dry cleaning solvent. Even if blotting and scraping removed most of the chunks of tar in your carpet, your carpet still may be stained a dark black from the pigment of the tar. To begin to target this pigmentation using dry cleaning solvent, pour water over a cloth rag, then add a few teaspoons of dry cleaning solvent to one area of the wetted rag. Dry cleaning solvent is a powerful agent that is designed to remove especially stubborn stains from a variety of surfaces, including carpet. Blot the stain with the dry cleaning solvent. After you have applied the water and dry cleaning solvent to the cloth, dab gently at the stain. Be sure to dab the tar with the area of cloth on which you poured the dry cleaning solution. Just like when you dabbed with the dry cloth, try to pat in soft sponging motions, as opposed to rubbing at the stain. If the dry cleaning solvent worked to completely remove the stain, pour a few drops of water onto the area you were working on, then dab using a clean cloth. This will absorb any of the dry cleaning solvent and leave you with a clean carpet. Create a dishwashing detergent solution. If the dry cleaning solvent didn't work to remove the tar, you can try to clean the stain using a solution of dishwashing detergent and water. To make this solution, pour one teaspoon (4.9 ml) of water into a small bowl along with a teaspoon (4.9 ml) of liquid dishwashing detergent that doesn't contain lanolin or bleach. Blot the stain using the dishwashing detergent solution. Dip a clean cloth into the dishwashing detergent solution, then blot the stain as you did before, working in small, dabbing motions to lift the stain. If you succeed in eliminating the stain, wet a clean cloth with water, then blot at the area of carpet you were working on to completely remove any traces of cleaner. Dab the stain with rubbing alcohol. Rubbing alcohol is a very potent cleaner, so it is best left for especially stubborn stains. To use rubbing alcohol to clean the tar stain, dip a clean cloth in rubbing alcohol, then blot at the stain. Be sure not to oversaturate the cloth in rubbing alcohol, or else it may soak through the carpet. When rubbing alcohol bleeds through carpet backing, it can damage the latex bond of the carpet. Whether or not the rubbing alcohol worked to remove the stain, clean the area of carpet you are working on by pouring a few drops of water onto a clean cloth, then dabbing at the carpet to remove any traces of rubbing alcohol. Use a commercial tar remover. There are several products on the market designed to lift and remove tar. Before using one of these products, first spot-test it on an inconspicuous area of carpet. If it doesn't discolor or stain the carpet, follow the instructions on the bottle and use it on the tar stain. Most tar removers are in the form of a thick liquid that you will apply to the stained area, then dab with a clean cloth. Spray WD-40 on the carpet. Most people don't realize that WD-40 can act as a powerful stain remover! To use WD-40 on the stain, spray it directly over the stained area. Let the WD-40 sit for around ten minutes so it can penetrate the stained fibers of the carpet, then use a clean cloth to blot at the area using gentle sponging motions. Blot until you stop lifting any stain or until the entire stain is lifted. After using the WD-40, make a mixture of one part dish soap and one part water, then dip a clean cloth in the soap solution and dab at the area to remove the WD-40. WD-40 generally does not stain, but if you are worried about it further staining your carpet, spray test an inconspicuous area of carpet with a small amount of WD-40, then let it sit for about five minutes. If you do not notice any discoloration, it is safe to use. Spray brake cleaner on the stain. Brake cleaner is another product that is not designed as a stain remover, but can do a great job breaking down and lifting tar stains. Spot the test brake cleaner before using, then spray it directly over the tar stain. Use a clean cloth to blot and lift any remnants of the stain.	Blot the stain immediately with a paper towel. Freeze the tar using an ice cube. Scrape up any hardened tar with a butter knife or spoon. Wet a cloth with water and dry cleaning solvent. Blot the stain with the dry cleaning solvent. Create a dishwashing detergent solution. Blot the stain using the dishwashing detergent solution. Dab the stain with rubbing alcohol. Use a commercial tar remover. Spray WD-40 on the carpet. Spray brake cleaner on the stain.
https://www.wikihow.com/Survive-Overthinking	How to Survive Overthinking	To avoid overthinking, try to challenge negative or recurring thoughts you're having that stop you from doing things. For example, you could say to yourself, "These are just thoughts, and they are not truth." Additionally, if you're dwelling on a past event, try to focus on what you should do differently next time, rather than what you should have done before. If you find this difficult, ask others involved in the situation for their opinion, since another person's perspective may help you move forward.	Learn different cognitive distortions. Before you can begin to address or cope with your habit of overthinking things, you'll need to learn what kinds of thoughts occur when you're engaging in this damaging behavior. Any time you find yourself indulging in painful, unpleasant, or self-doubting thoughts, you are on the road to overthinking because of cognitive distortions. Likewise if you find yourself listing reasons to not do something, or otherwise making excuses for your self-doubt. The most common cognitive distortions include: All or nothing thinking - believing things are absolute and seeing every situation as being black or white. Overgeneralization - seeing one negative event as a continuous cycle of defeat or embarrassment. Mental filtering - dwelling only on negative things (thoughts, feelings, outcomes) while ignoring all the positive elements of those situations or scenarios. Discounting the positives - believing that none of your admirable qualities or accomplishments matter. Jumping to conclusions - either assuming that other people are reacting/thinking negatively towards you without any real evidence (called "mind reading") or believing that an event will turn out badly without any evidence for this conclusion. Magnification or minimization - blowing bad things out of proportion or reducing the importance of good things. Emotional reasoning - believing that the way you feel reflects an objective truth about yourself. "Should" statements - chastising yourself or others for things that should or shouldn't have been said/done. Labeling - turning a mistake or shortcoming into a character attribute of yourself. (For example, turning the thought "I messed up" into "I'm a loser and a failure.") Personalization and blame - internalizing fault for situations or events you aren't responsible for, or blaming others for situations/events that they had no control over. Identify how you overthink. There are numerous ways to overthink, many of which are caused by cognitive distortions. One form of overthinking is the thought pattern known as "catastrophizing." Catastrophizing occurs any time you automatically predict a negative outcome to some event or series of events, and jump to the conclusion that such an outcome would be devastating and unbearable. Catastrophizing is a combination of jumping to conclusions and overgeneralizing. Try to identify which cognitive distortions affect your overthinking the most. Write down the thoughts you experience, and try to label which thoughts could fall into the category of cognitive distortions. Practice learning to recognize your "overthinking" thoughts in the moment, as they arise. Simply naming them when you become aware of them may be helpful. Try silently saying the word "thinking" whenever you begin to overthink - it may help ground you and break you out of your spiraling thought pattern. Take note of how you're feeling. It's easy to fall into "autopilot" mode during the course of your day. But if your day is filled with situations that have the potential to induce anxiety, you may be walking blindly into a situation that will cause you to overthink and catastrophize. Try mandating a personal "check in" for yourself. Assess how you're feeling as you enter different scenarios and situations that tend to evoke your pattern of overthinking. Identify any instance in which you begin to indulge patterns of overthinking. Don't judge yourself for it, just acknowledge it before you work to change it. Challenge your automatic thoughts. Once you've identified an incident of overthinking or catastrophizing, you can now begin to challenge the validity of those thoughts. Challenging those thoughts by remembering that thoughts are not facts may help you break out of your pattern of overthinking. Thoughts do not always reflect reality, and they are oftentimes warped, uninformed, or simply wrong. By letting go of the infallible perception of your thoughts, you'll be more capable of considering other possibilities, or at least accepting that your overthinking isn't always right. Examine what (if any) real, objective evidence you have to support the cognitive distortions and patterns of overthinking that you're experiencing. There is a good chance that you will not be able to come up with any real, compelling evidence that the thoughts you're experiencing have any basis in truth. Try silently saying to yourself, "These are just thoughts, and they are not truth." Repeating this mantra may help you disengage from the spiraling thought patterns you're stuck in. Replace cognitive distortions with real facts. If your patterns of overthinking are spiraling out of control, it may feel difficult to break out of that thought pattern. However, once you learn to recognize that the thoughts you're experiencing are not factual, you can then fairly easily replace that thought pattern with a more realistic one. Tell yourself, "If I accept that my assumptions and overthinking are not grounded in facts, then what are the facts in this situation?" Even if a situation ended badly, you can focus on what to do differently next time as an alternative to dwelling on what you should have said/done in the past. It won't come easily at first, but once you retrain your brain to process situations differently, it will eventually get easier. Try asking other people who are aware of the situation for their input. Sometimes asking a trusted friend, relative, or colleague whether you're overreacting or overthinking things can help you realize that there's no reason to continue thinking that way. Try positive self-talk to replace self-doubt or overthinking. The way you talk to yourself (and think about yourself) can affect how you feel. So instead of criticizing yourself or ruminating on bad thoughts, try to focus on the things you did well and continue to do well. Practice relaxation techniques. Many people who suffer from overthinking and cognitive distortions find relaxation techniques to be helpful in breaking out of harmful thought patterns. Relaxation techniques can also have physical benefits, like lowering your heart rate and blood pressure, slowing down your breathing rate, and reducing the activity of stress hormones in your body. There are numerous types of relaxation techniques, including: Autogenic relaxation - repeat words or suggestions to yourself internally to help you relax. You might imagine a tranquil environment and then repeat positive affirmations, or simply focus on your breathing. Progressive muscle relaxation - focus on tensing, holding, and then relaxing each major muscle group in your body. Start at the head with your facial muscles and work your way down to your toes (or vice versa), tensing and holding each muscle group for five to ten seconds before releasing the muscles' tension into relaxation. Visualization - let your imagination form calming mental images, and visualize a serene place or situation. Mindful breathing - place one hand on your chest and the other on your belly. While sitting, lying, or standing (whichever is most comfortable and convenient), take slow, deep breaths in, forcing the air into your abdomen instead of just your chest. You should feel your belly expand outward as you inhale. Hold the breath for a few seconds, then exhale slowly until all of the previous breath is gone. Repeat as many times as needed until you begin to feel calm. Meditation - similar to mindful breathing, meditation focuses on the slow, deep inhalation and exhalation of breath coupled with an element of meditative mindfulness. That may mean reciting a mantra (a word or phrase that helps you remain calm/focused) or focusing your attention on physical sensations, such as the feeling of sitting where you are, or the sensation of breathing in and out through your nostrils. Find ways to distract yourself. If you find yourself constantly doubting yourself or overanalyzing situations, you may need to find a more active way to break out of that thought pattern. Try distracting yourself with a positive, healthy alternative. For example, you can try meditating to ground yourself in the present moment. Or, if you enjoy crafts, try taking up knitting or sewing to occupy your mind whenever overthinking thought patterns take over. If you play an instrument, pick it up and play for a bit. Find what comforts you and grounds you in the present moment, and use that activity as often as you need to. Explore your thoughts in writing. Writing is a very effective way of processing your thoughts, analyzing patterns of thinking, and finding ways to move past those thoughts. One writing exercise that many people find helpful is to take 10 minutes to explore the nature of your overthinking thought patterns in writing. Set a timer for 10 minutes. In that time, write as much about your thoughts as you can. Explore the people, situations, or time spans that you associate with those thoughts, and whether those thoughts have any bearing on who you were, who you currently are, or who you hope to be in your life. Read through your writings when the time is up and look for patterns of thinking. Ask yourself, "Have these thought patterns influenced how I see myself, my relationships, or the world around me? If so, has that influence been a positive or negative one?" You may also find it helpful to ask yourself, "Have these thought patterns ever really helped me? Or have the number of missed opportunities and sleepless nights outnumbered the occasional time I was right?" Do things that make you happy. Many people who overthink things avoid going out or having interactions out of fear that something may happen. Even if you're not yet able to break out of those thought patterns, it's important that you don't let your overthinking dictate your decisions. If there's something you want to go to (for example, a concert or a party), stop finding reasons not to go and force yourself out the door. Otherwise your overthinking will prevent you from doing anything, and you'll almost certainly regret it. Tell yourself that the regret you'd feel over missing out would be stronger than the regret over having a less-than-perfect time. Think of all the times you took a risk at trying something new and it paid off. Then think about all the times that staying home or being afraid of trying new things has gained you anything. You'll quickly see that taking that risk of failure was valuable because it led to good things. Remind yourself that you can always leave early if you aren't having a good time. The important thing is to go and see whether or not you can end up having a fun and meaningful experience. Alter your view of failure. Whether you're afraid of trying something because your overthinking has led you to believe you'd fail, or you can't stop replaying the memory of a time you failed at something or in some role, you need to recognize that sometimes things just don't work out the way we'd like them to. And that's not always a bad thing. A lot of what we perceive as failure is not an ending, but a beginning: to new options, new opportunities, and new ways of living. Recognize that behaviors may fail, but people (namely, you) do not. Rather than seeing failure as the end of something good, try thinking about it as a new opportunity. If you lose your job, you may be able to find a better job that gives you more satisfaction. If you start a new art project and it doesn't turn out the way you hoped, at least you got some practice out of it, and you might have a better idea of what you'd like to do differently next time. Try to let failure motivate you. Put more effort and concentration into doing better next time, or spend more time preparing for future events. Try not to dwell on the past. An important part of overthinking is to recognize that you cannot change the past, and that dwelling on it over and over will not help change anything. While learning from the past is an important part of growing and maturing, overthinking and ruminating on mistakes, missed opportunities, and other elements of the past is harmful and unproductive. Once you learn the lesson you believe you need to learn from a past event, try letting go of the memory. Don't consciously think about it, and any time you find yourself thinking about it try to distract yourself or snap yourself out of that thought pattern. Focus on the present moment, which you do have the power to change. Realize you can't predict the future. No one knows what's going to happen, and your overthinking mind certainly isn't going to predict the future any better than the rest of the world. But many people with overthinking minds tend to believe that they know what will happen in advance: that trying out for the basketball team will only result in failure and humiliation, or that asking someone out will result in an awkward and devastating rejection. Yet without trying, how do you know? What are you basing your assumptions on? More likely than not, those assumptions are unfounded and are setting you up to fail by assuming from the start that you will. Remind yourself that no one knows what the future holds, and if you suffer from an overthinking mind, your "predictions" are mostly built from self-doubt and fear of the unknown.	Learn different cognitive distortions. Identify how you overthink. Take note of how you're feeling. Challenge your automatic thoughts. Replace cognitive distortions with real facts. Practice relaxation techniques. Find ways to distract yourself. Explore your thoughts in writing. Do things that make you happy. Alter your view of failure. Try not to dwell on the past. Realize you can't predict the future.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Pasta-Salad	How to Make Pasta Salad	To start making a pasta salad, put 16 ounces of cooked and chilled pasta into a bowl. Next, dice and de-seed 1 red pepper, slice a cucumber, and cut some ham into small pieces. Add the ingredients to the bowl and pour in 1/3 to 1/2 cup of Italian salad dressing. Before serving, allow the salad to chill and add some cheese. You can also customize your salad by choosing 3 vegetables or proteins, like cooked chicken breast or baked tofu, and 1/3 cup of a mix-in, such as pitted olives.	Fill a large pot with 1 gallon (3.79 liters) of water and two tablespoons of salt and bring it to a boil. You want the pasta to be well-seasoned, since you don't be relying on fancy sauces to flavor it. Add the pasta and let it cook for the time specified on the package. Most pastas will need 9 to 12 minutes to cook. You do not want the pasta to be overcooked or it will fall apart when you toss it with the rest of your ingredients. Also, the pasta will soak up the dressing the longer it sits; if you overcook it, it will become soggy later on. Pasta with lots of shapes, nooks, and crannies are the best for pasta salads, becuase they can hold more dressing and small ingredients. Consider any of the following: fusilli, farfalle, rotini, and penne. Drain the water from the pasta and rinse it under cold water. Hold a large strainer or colander over a sink and dump the pasta into it. Once the water is gone, run cold water over the pasta for a few seconds. Shake and jiggle the strainer/colander so until there is no water left. Rinsing the pasta with cold water will halt the cooking process and prevent it from overheating. On the other hand, rinsing the pasta will get rid of all that extra salty flavor. Consider tossing the pasta with some olive oil instead, and spreading it on a large baking sheet so that it can cool off. Consider tossing the pasta with part of your dressing while it is still warm. This will allow the pasta to absorb the flavors better. Take about two thirds of your dressing, and toss it with your pasta while it is still warm. Set the rest of the dressing aside for later. Leave the pasta in the refrigerator for one hour. This will allow it to cool down. You don't want to use warm pasta for pasta salads. Place 16 (450 grams) of cooked and chilled tri-color pasta into a large bowl. The bowl needs to be large enough to fit the rest of your ingredients. Prepare your ingredients. Wash all of your vegetables. Next, prepare your ingredients in the following ways: De-seed and dice 1 red bell pepper into tiny pieces. Cut 1 cucumber in half. Cut each half into thin slices. If you want to add some protein, cut some ham into small, bite-sized cubes. You will need about 1 cup (grams). Put your chopped and diced ingredients into the bowl. If you want to add any cheese, you might want to save that for later. Cheese tends to get soggy the longer it sits in a salad, so it is best to add it just when you are ready to serve it. Add your dressing and toss the salad. You will need about 1/3 to ½ cup (80 to 120 milliliters) of Italian salad dressing. Gently toss the salad with some salad tongs. Be careful not to break the pasta noodles. Consider chilling the salad before serving it. This will allow all of the flavors to blend together. Add any cheeses and garnishes to the salad just before you serve it. Be sure to give the salad a final toss, in case some of the ingredients sank to the bottom. Place 12 ounces (342.85 grams) of cooked and chilled pasta into a large bowl. The best pasta to use for this recipe is mostaccioli or penne. Prepare your vegetable ingredients. Rinse the tomatoes, cucumber, and onions. The olives do not need to be rinsed, as the oil gives them extra flavor. Prepare your ingredients in the following ways: Cut and quarter enough cherry tomatoes to fill 2 cups (400 grams). Cut a medium cucumber in half, lengthwise. Cut each half into slices. Cut 4 green onions into slices. Cut enough pitted kalamata olives to fill 1/3 cup (60 grams). Prepare the salad dressing in a jar. Fill a jar with ½ cup (120 milliliters) of olive oil and ½ cup (120 milliliters) of lemon juice. Add 2 tablespoons of fresh basil, 2 tablespoons of fresh oregano, ¼ teaspoon of salt, and ¼ teaspoon of ground black pepper. Mince 4 cloves of garlic and add them to the jar too. Close the jar and shake it until the olive oil and lemon juice are no longer separated. If you can't find fresh basil, use 2 teaspoons of dried basil instead. If you can't find fresh oregano, use 2 teaspoons of dried oregano instead. If you like anchovies, add 1 tablespoon of anchovy paste. Pour the dressing over the salad. You can use all of the dressing, or only part of it, depending on how moist or dry you like your salad. Keep in mind that the pasta will soak up some of the dressing. Toss the salad to mix everything together. Use a large pair of salad tongs to do this. Toss it gently so that you don't break any of the pasta noodles. Chill the salad for 2 to 24 hours. Cover the salad with some plastic cling wrap and leave it in the refrigerator. Toss the salad with 1 cup (225 grams) of crumbled feta cheese before serving it. If you want, you can sprinkle it with some fresh oregano leaves. This is enough to make 12 to 16 side salads. Prepare the dressing ahead of time. Fill a jar with ¾ cup (180 milliliters) of extra virgin olive oil and ¾ cup (180 milliliters) of red wine vinegar. Add ¼ cup (55 grams) sugar, 1 tablespoon of oregano, 1 teaspoon of salt, and ½ teaspoon of pepper. Close the jar and shake it until the olive oil and vinegar are no longer separated. Set the jar aside. This will give the sugar time to dissolve. Place 16 ounces (450 grams) of cooked and chilled tri-color pasta into a large bowl. You can also use regular pasta instead of tri-colored ones. Prepare the rest of your ingredients. Rinse all of your vegetables. Then, prepare the ingredients in the following ways: De-seed and chop enough green peppers to fill 2 cups (350 grams). Dice enough tomatoes to fill 2 cups (400 grams). Chop enough red onions to fill 1½ cups (225 grams). Cut 8 ounces (230 grams) of pepperoni into thin slices. Cut the slices in half so you get half-moon shapes. If you were unable to find pre-sliced black olives, you will need to slice them yourself. You'll need enough to fill ½ cup (90 grams). If you want to add some cheese, cut 8 ounces (250 grams) of provolone cheese into small, bite-sized cubes. Toss the salad with the dressing and ingredients. Do not add the cheese yet if you are using it. You will add the cheese just before serving the salad. Chill the salad for a few hours. Cover the bowl with some plastic cling wrap and leave it in the fridge. Toss the salad with the cubed provolone cheese before serving it. This is enough salad to feed 8 to 12 people. Cook and chill 8 ounces (228.57 grams) of pasta of your choice. Use a pasta with lots of nooks and crannies, such as: bow ties, corkscrews, penne, wagon wheels, macaroni, or small shells. Transfer your chilled pasta to a large bowl. You will need the extra space so that you can add your ingredients and toss it. Choose three types of vegetables or protein to add to your salad. This will be enough to give your salad some extra flavor, color, and texture. Consider adding in 1 cup (150 grams) of some protein. If you do not want to add any meat, then double the amount of other extra ingredients you will be using. Here are some ideas of what you can add into your salad: Cooked, chopped chicken breast, steak, or shrimp Cubed ham, roast beef, or salami Drained and flaked canned tuna Chopped hard-boiled eggs Chopped baked tofu Consider adding in two cups (300 grams) of vegetables or beans. Choose two different types of vegetable or bean. You will need 1 cup (150 grams) of each. Any vegetables you add should be chopped, slices, or diced. Here are some types of vegetables or beans you can add: Blanched vegetables, such as: broccoli florets, peas, corn kernels, green beans, or asparagus. Raw vegetables, sliced or diced, such as: celery, cucumber, red onion, red or green bell pepper, carrots, or cherry tomatoes. Drained, canned beans, such as: chickpeas, black beans, or white beans. Consider adding 1/3 cup (50 grams) of a mix-in. Certain items, such as cheese, will need to be added at the very end, just before you serve the salad. Here are some ideas to get you started: Chopped sun-dried tomatoes Chopped roasted red peppers Pitted and chopped olives Shredded or crumbled cheese, such as: mozzarella, cheddar, Swiss, Monterey Jack, feta, Parmesan, or goat Toasted and chopped nuts such as: pine nuts, cashews, or peanuts Toasted seeds such as: sesame (use less than 1/3 cup/50 grams) or sunflower Cooked/fried and crumbled bacon Prepare the dressing. The best way to prepare salad dressing is in a jar. Simply put all of the ingredients into a jar, close the jar tightly, and shake it. Some of the creamier dressings, however, are best prepared in a cup and beaten with a fork. Here are some dressings you can make: To make a simple vinaigrette: combine 1/3 cup (80 milliliters) of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar, 1 minced shallot, ½ teaspoon of salt, and a dash of pepper. To make a creamy dressing: combine 1/3 cup (85 grams) of mayonnaise, 3 tablespoons of sour cream, 1½ tablespoons of lemon juice, add ½ cup (15 grams) of chopped, mixed herbs. Add a dash of salt and pepper. To male a creamy parmesan dressing: combine ¼ cup (65 grams) of mayonnaise, ¼ cup (65 grams) of sour cream, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, ¼ teaspoon of finely grated garlic, and ¾ cup (75 grams) of grated parmesan. Add a dash of salt and pepper. Toss the pasta with the dressing and other ingredients. If you are going to add cheese, set it aside for now. It is better to add cheese just before serving the salad, or it will become soggy. Chill the salad for up to three hours. Cover the bowl with a sheet of plastic cling wrap and place it into the fridge. Add garnishes such as cheese and herbs just before serving. Give the salad a final toss to mix everything in.	Fill a large pot with 1 gallon (3.79 liters) of water and two tablespoons of salt and bring it to a boil. Add the pasta and let it cook for the time specified on the package. Drain the water from the pasta and rinse it under cold water. Consider tossing the pasta with part of your dressing while it is still warm. Leave the pasta in the refrigerator for one hour. Place 16 (450 grams) of cooked and chilled tri-color pasta into a large bowl. Prepare your ingredients. Put your chopped and diced ingredients into the bowl. Add your dressing and toss the salad. Consider chilling the salad before serving it. Add any cheeses and garnishes to the salad just before you serve it. Place 12 ounces (342.85 grams) of cooked and chilled pasta into a large bowl. Prepare your vegetable ingredients. Prepare the salad dressing in a jar. Pour the dressing over the salad. Toss the salad to mix everything together. Chill the salad for 2 to 24 hours. Toss the salad with 1 cup (225 grams) of crumbled feta cheese before serving it. Prepare the dressing ahead of time. Place 16 ounces (450 grams) of cooked and chilled tri-color pasta into a large bowl. Prepare the rest of your ingredients. Toss the salad with the dressing and ingredients. Chill the salad for a few hours. Toss the salad with the cubed provolone cheese before serving it. Cook and chill 8 ounces (228.57 grams) of pasta of your choice. Transfer your chilled pasta to a large bowl. Choose three types of vegetables or protein to add to your salad. Consider adding in 1 cup (150 grams) of some protein. Consider adding in two cups (300 grams) of vegetables or beans. Consider adding 1/3 cup (50 grams) of a mix-in. Prepare the dressing. Toss the pasta with the dressing and other ingredients. Chill the salad for up to three hours. Add garnishes such as cheese and herbs just before serving.
https://www.wikihow.com/Trust-Yourself	How to Trust Yourself	If you want to learn to trust yourself, make time to do things that you like, since it's easy to lose confidence when you forget to take care of yourself. For example, try dedicating 1 night a week to relaxing with a good book or movie. In addition, don't be afraid to seek support from others, so you are reminded of your worth. For instance, if have doubts about applying for a challenging job, share them with a friend, who may have a more positive perspective on the situation. Furthermore, try to forgive yourself for messing up, so you can continue to grow. When things go wrong, look for the silver lining, which will help you see your mistakes as learning opportunities, rather than failures.	Take time away from work or school to do something for yourself. It's easy to lose confidence if you forget to take care of yourself. Make sure you set aside some time to pursue hobbies or other leisure activities. If you get burnt out at work or school, it will add to your frustration and self-doubt. Dedicate one night per week to do an activity you love. Watch a movie, go for a long walk in the park, or curl up in your favorite chair to read. Do whatever you enjoy doing the most. Set time aside each evening before you go to bed to write down three things you are grateful for. Make it a ritual you really enjoy by turning on your favorite music or making yourself a warm, comforting drink like tea or hot chocolate. Respect your values, interests, and skills. Find a quiet place where you won't be interrupted for at least 20 minutes. Take out a special notebook and pen. Set a timer for 20 minutes and write a list of your most important personal values, interests, and skills. Write at least 5 things for each category. Bring this list out whenever you are feeling doubtful or pessimistic to remind yourself of your positive qualities and your drive. Whenever you question a decision, look at your list and see if it matches your values and overall goal. Remember that everyone's list will look different and it's ok that you are different from others. Keep a list of your strengths and accomplishments so you can look at the things you've done well in the past. For example, you might write that one of your values is always being honest, that one of your hobbies is scrapbooking, and that a skill you have is being a good listener. Keep promises to yourself. To trust yourself, you have to be like your own best friend. That means you must keep promises you make to yourself. Making a commitment and sticking to it will build trust. For example, if you make a promise to yourself to go to bed earlier or take short a walk every evening, keep that promise just like you would keep a promise to meet a friend. Sometimes things come up and you will have to break a promise to yourself. For example, if you had promised to read your favorite book one evening, but your friend calls to talk because she just broke up with her boyfriend, you probably would prioritize talking your friend through this difficult time. Recommit to reading your book the next day. Just be sure that you don't make a habit of always breaking promises to yourself. Listen to yourself and your body. Take the time to reflect on your mental and physical wellbeing. If you are experiencing certain emotions, like sadness or anger, give yourself some time to process them before you react. If you give yourself some time to feel what you are feeling and think about it, you may find strong emotions fade or turn into something else entirely. For example, if you receive bad results on a test or a negative review at work, you may feel a heaviness in your heart and you may want to speak negatively to yourself. Try to resist the urge to react and just let yourself feel sad. Then, when the feeling fades a little, think constructively about how you can avoid a similar situation in the future. Learn to say “No”. Respecting your own boundaries, especially if you feel like you are under pressure to say yes to something, will help you trust yourself more. If you don't have the time or energy for something, it's ok to respectfully say no. Reduce negative self-talk. Everyone struggles with negative voices in their heads. Instead of speaking to yourself with negativity, zeroing in on all the things about yourself that you don't like, focus on the positive aspects of yourself. If you make a mistake, reassure yourself that it will be better next time. For example, the next time you make a mistake, instead of telling yourself “You're so stupid,” remind yourself that “It's ok. It's not a big deal,” or “Ok, it was a big mistake but I will learn from it and do better next time.” Being kind and understanding with yourself when you make a mistake also helps you be kinder towards others when they do the same. Resist the urge to be a perfectionist. Trusting yourself doesn't mean that you will always say exactly the right thing or make the right decision every time. You don't have to be perfect and you shouldn't even try. The best way to learn to trust yourself is to keep fighting to improve yourself. If you say something you regret, apologize. But remember that it is not a failure. The fact that you feel bad and want to make amends is a sign of growth. Learn from your mistakes so you can continue to grow. Just because something goes wrong once doesn't mean it will go wrong again. Don't look at your mistakes as failures. See them as learning opportunities. Consider what you can do next time something similar happens so you won't make the same mistake again. Learning from your mistakes will help you deepen your trust in yourself. Even if you make the same mistake twice, or more, look at it as a stepping stone instead of a stumbling block. Be patient with yourself. Reflect on what you can do next time to avoid the mistake. Reframe negative events by thinking about what you did right. If something negative happens in your life, look for positives of the event instead of seeing it as a failure. Look for the things that you did well to help prepare for the event. For example, if you bomb a math test, you can tell yourself that you studied and got more questions right than you normally do. Focus on developing a solution when a problem comes up. Instead of beating yourself up about an unexpected problem, sit down to tackle it. To do this, first clearly define what the problem is. Then, design a plan to solve it. Finally, put the plan into action. Allow yourself some time to be emotional about the problem before rationalizing what the next step should be. Try to remain flexible and open-minded in case things don't go exactly to plan. Once you've solved the problem, evaluate the outcome and try to learn from your previous mistakes. You may want to ask friends or family members you trust for advice if needed. Try designing a plan with several options that you can choose from in case something else unexpected comes up. If you forgot about an important exam or work project that is coming up very soon, first focus on how to best prepare for it. Prioritize the subjects you need to study or the tasks that need to be completed. Then, get started as soon as possible and do your best. Afterward, come up with a way to remind yourself to start earlier the next time something comes up. You may want to look at your syllabus and put reminders in your phone 2 weeks before each of the remaining exams or buy a planner so you can write in your projects as soon as they are assigned. Take some time away from a project if you are feeling overwhelmed. Focus on something completely different. Sometimes taking a break from something and concentrating on something completely different can help bring a whole new perspective when you go back to it. Taking time away can be as simple as getting up and moving around, listening to music, doodling, scribbling, or playing with your cat or dog. Be willing to take risks. Build your self-trust by starting out taking low-level risks. Then, build on each success and take a bigger risk every time. Don't worry if you don't succeed every time. For example, if you really want to learn to play ice hockey, start by going to a roller skating rink with some friends. This is a small risk to take and you will be having fun with your friends while you learn to start trusting yourself on skates in a warm environment. Then, take a bigger risk by signing up for ice skating lessons. Finally, when you feel confident on the ice skates, sign up for a recreational ice hockey league in your area. Seek support from others to remind you of your worth. It's important to take time for yourself, and take responsibility for your own mistakes, but you don't have to do it all alone. It's just as important to seek support from others. Reach out to your family, friends, or a professional therapist if you are feeling self-doubt. They can give you good advice and encouragement. The next time you don't feel like you are good enough to do something, like applying for a challenging job or taking an advanced class, tell someone you trust about your doubts. Often the people in our lives are better able to see your positive traits and inspire you to push your limits and try something new. Seek out people who will encourage and support you. Stay away from people who undermine your self-trust. Think about the people you let into your life and try to keep away those who don't support you or your dreams.	Take time away from work or school to do something for yourself. Respect your values, interests, and skills. Keep promises to yourself. Listen to yourself and your body. Learn to say “No”. Reduce negative self-talk. Resist the urge to be a perfectionist. Learn from your mistakes so you can continue to grow. Reframe negative events by thinking about what you did right. Focus on developing a solution when a problem comes up. Take some time away from a project if you are feeling overwhelmed. Be willing to take risks. Seek support from others to remind you of your worth.
https://www.wikihow.com/Spot-a-Sick-Finch	How to Spot a Sick Finch	If you think your finch might be sick, check its body for feather loss, bare patches, or red patches, which could indicate stress or sickness. Look for any unusual bleeding or swelling, especially around its stomach or eyes, your finch is probably sick. Watch out for strange behaviors, like excessive coughing, sneezing, or rubbing itself on the cage, that are common with a sick bird. If you think your finch is sick, take it to your vet as soon as you can so they can diagnose and treat it.	Watch for excessive sleeping or lethargic behavior. While finches are normally active while awake, your finch may be drooping its head or remaining motionless on the bottom of the cage. The bird's posture may be bent or horizontal instead of vertical. If your bird is sleeping all day while all the other birds are flying around, something could be wrong. Note any sneezing and coughing. Like people, birds will sometimes sneeze or cough when sick. They will often shake or twist their head as they do this. These symptoms are sometimes accompanied by nasal discharge. Also look out for heavy breathing or other signs of respiratory troubles. Your bird may have a cold, or it may be a sign of more serious problems like air sac mites. Watch to see if other finches avoid one particular bird. Healthy house finches tend to avoid sick birds. If you have multiple finches, you may notice that they are avoiding one member of their group. If your finches have abandoned their friend, it is because they are trying to prevent getting sick themselves. Monitor unusual scratching. Mites, conjunctivitis, and pox can make your bird itch. You may notice that the bird is attempting to scratch themselves with a foot or that they are rubbing up against their bird house, cage, or other objects. Scratching excessively can be a sign of something wrong, and it can cause even more damage to your bird's skin. Normal itching will last only a few seconds, and it can be relieved with gentle rubbing. If your bird is sick, he may scratch repeatedly through the day and for several minutes at a time. He may also be scratching himself more vigorously. Listen for silence. Finches are very vocal birds, so if they stop singing, something is wrong. They may be trying to conserve energy, or they may suffer from air sac mites, which cause the bird to lose their voice. If you notice that the bird has not been chirping or singing, you may want to observe for other signs of illness. Move the finch's accommodations to a well-lit location. If your bird is sluggish, it may be that there is not enough light for the bird, and your finch has become depressed. Natural lighting is very important for finch health. Either provide the finch with natural light or use full-spectrum lightbulbs (also known as “daylight” or “sunlight” bulbs). If the bird does not improve, the bird may be sick instead of depressed. Inspect your bird for feather loss. The loss of feathers can be a sign that the bird is stressed or sick. Healthy birds have a sleek coat that covers their entire body except for their beak, eyes, and feet. Check your birds' coat for: Naked or bare patches Scaly or red skin Thinning feathers Baldness on the head A ruffled appearance Watch your finch for fluffed feathers. Observe your finch at a distance to observe if they are fluffing their feathers when they think they are alone. Normally, birds will keep their feathers pulled in against their bodies; this will look like a sleek coat. Healthy finches may fluff their feathers for a few minutes at a time, but a sick finch will keep their feathers fluffed much longer. They may even sleep like this. If the bird knows you are watching, however, they may pull in their feathers as a defense mechanism. Feel the stomach for swelling. Gently press your fingers around the abdomen area. If you can feel a swollen belly or a hard protrusion, take the bird to a vet immediately. Egg binding is a common problem in female finches wherein the egg becomes stuck within the reproductive track and the bird cannot pass it. In addition to the swelling, your bird will be distressed, and this may look like the bird is trying to defecate. Finches can die within a few hours of egg binding. Check your finch's eyes for redness or swelling. Finches are susceptible to conjunctivitis and avian pox, both of which appear on the bird's eyes. Don't touch your finch's eyes, but observe them closely. Your finch may be ill if you observe: Red skin around the eyes Puffy or swollen eyelids Growths on the eyes Discharge coming from the eyes. Check the finch's vent. The water vent is where the bird excretes droppings. This will be located between the bird's tail and thighs. A healthy bird's vent will be clean and dry while a sick bird's will likely show signs of illness, including: Matted feathers around the vent Bleeding or swelling Discharge or wetness Inspect your bird's urine and urates for discoloration. Birds have two types of liquid waste. The clear, watery liquid is urine. The chalky white liquid is called urate. Discolored droppings are symptoms of internal diseases. Green or yellow urates can be a sign of either malnutrition or liver disease. Brown urates can be a result of lead poisoning. Red urine or urates can mean that your bird has internal bleeding Examine the bird's feces for color and consistency. The feces should be the only solid waste coming out of your bird. Feces will be either a rusty brown color, a dark green, or the color of their food. They should also be tube-shaped, although they may come out coiled or broken up. Always keep an eye out for runny droppings or droppings of unusual colors, sizes, and textures, such as: Black feces Bright green feces Undigested food Foamy droppings Excessively watery feces Examine the finch's skin for signs of scaly skin. Gently brush the feathers around the face to examine the skin. Various types of mites can bury into your finch's skin to lay their eggs. You may notice your finch has lesions around the face, beak, or eyes. Their skin may be coated with a white powder-like film. Feathers may be thinning in this area. Scaly skin can spread to their legs. You will notice a growth of crusty clumps around the foot. These can grow and accumulate until your bird can no longer walk. These growths are called tassles. Listen your finch's breathing for clicking or wheezing. If you notice your bird has labored breathing, hold your bird up close to your ear. Listen carefully for any strange noises, including clicking, wheezing, squeaking, or grunting. Such signs may be more apparent after activity such as flight. These may be a sign of air sac mites. Even if only one bird is demonstrating these symptoms, all of your birds could be infected. Air sac mites are highly contagious, and you should treat every bird in the cage. Shine a light on their throat. Press a small light light to one side of the their throat, and examine the other side. The light will illuminate their windpipe. If you notice tiny, dark granules inside your bird's throat, it may mean that your bird is infected with air sac mites and needs immediate medical attention. Use a small, directed flashlight beam, such as a pinpoint light. Do not shine it down their beaks, or you may blind them. If you suspect that your bird has air sac mites, take him to the vet for a tracheal swab. This is the only guaranteed way to prove that mites are in the airway. Brush through the feathers to check for red mites. Red mites can usually be found around the crest of the bird. With your fingers, gently push back the feathers around the head of your canary. If you see tiny red specks milling around in the feathers, it is a good sign that your bird's cage has been infested. Leave a white cloth in the cage to catch mites. Fold up a white or light colored cloth, and leave it in a corner of the cage overnight. During the night, when mites emerge, they may cling to the cloth. In the morning, you may notice little specks on the cloth. These are most likely mites, and their presence is a sign that the cage has been infested. If your cage is infested, so are your birds. Even if you do not find mites directly on your birds, they are likely feeding on them if they are present in the cage. Flash a light into the cage to check for infestation. During the day, mites will often hide in the cracks of your aviary. Shine a light in the dark nooks of your bird house, taking care to sweep it through any tiny cracks or holes in the cage. Nesting boxes are a vulnerable location in the cage as well. Remove the shavings or padding on the bottom of the cage, and examine for further signs of mites. Mites are around 1 mm in size. They will form clusters of red or black bugs. You may see tiny dark spots moving in cracks.	Watch for excessive sleeping or lethargic behavior. Note any sneezing and coughing. Watch to see if other finches avoid one particular bird. Monitor unusual scratching. Listen for silence. Move the finch's accommodations to a well-lit location. Inspect your bird for feather loss. Watch your finch for fluffed feathers. Feel the stomach for swelling. Check your finch's eyes for redness or swelling. Check the finch's vent. Inspect your bird's urine and urates for discoloration. Examine the bird's feces for color and consistency. Examine the finch's skin for signs of scaly skin. Listen your finch's breathing for clicking or wheezing. Shine a light on their throat. Brush through the feathers to check for red mites. Leave a white cloth in the cage to catch mites. Flash a light into the cage to check for infestation.
https://www.wikihow.com/Protect-Chicken-Combs-from-Winter-Cold	How to Protect Chicken Combs from Winter Cold	To protect your chicken's comb from winter cold, cover its wattle and comb with petroleum jelly or coconut oil before evening time, when the temperatures are the coldest. You can also create a warmer environment by putting a small heater or an electric light bulb in the coop to keep it just above freezing, which will keep your chicken safe while allowing it to get used to the cold. While your coop needs to stay ventilated to keep the chicken's lungs healthy, you can also consider closing the windows during the night to keep drafts out. In addition to warming the coop, supplement your chicken's diet with corn or scratch during the winter months, which will help it gain weight and stay warmer.	Wait until the evening. To keep a better control over your birds, wait until they have entered the roost for the night before applying any covering. Overnight is when the temperature will be lowest, so it is when your chickens will be most susceptible to frostbite. Check for signs of frostbite. Before adding anything to your chicken's comb, make sure they aren't already suffering from frostbite. You'll notice because those areas of the comb will be black. You can still apply a covering, but just be careful when applying jelly to this skin, as it will be very sensitive. If you notice frostbite on the skin, treat it where possible. Move your chicken to a warm area. Soak a clean cloth in lukewarm water and hold against the frostbitten areas. Do not use direct heat like a dryer, or rub the comb. Combs do not grow back, so don't break off the blackened tips. This will cause problems for the chicken in regulating body heat, especially during the summer. Apply petroleum jelly. Cover the chicken's wattle and comb liberally with petroleum jelly. Massage the jelly into any exposed red skin around the head. Once you have rubbed some in, leave an extra thick coat onto the comb and wattle. Be very careful to avoid getting any jelly into the birds' eyes. If you want a natural alternative to petroleum jelly, consider using olive oil, coconut oil, or a biodegradable product like Waxelene instead. Reapply when skin is dry. You want to make sure your birds' combs stay warm, so be prepared to pick them up and touch the skin. If the comb feels dry, you should apply another coat. If it feels oily or greasy, the original coat is still there. Get cold-weather chicken breeds. Some breeds are better in cold conditions, and you may consider choosing to raise these if you are in a cold climate. When looking for cold-weather birds, focus on breeds with larger bodies and smaller combs. This means more body fat for keeping warm and less exposed skin vulnerable to frostbite. Some of the best breeds for cold weather are Ameraucanas, Ancona, Black Australorps, Black Giant, Blue Andalusian, Brahma, Buff Orpingtons, Cochins, Delaware, Dominique, Langshan, New Hampshire, Plymouth Rocks, Rhode Island Red, Russian Orloff, Speckled Sussex and Wyandottes. Ventilate the coop. While you want to avoid having a drafty coop, there should be some air circulation. Add screened windows near the overhang where the walls meet the roof. You can close windows during the night, as long as you remember to open them back up during the day. It is important to keep the coop ventilated, and not sealed, to keep the environment safe. A sealed coop will trap humidity, which can lead to frostbite. You can also get a buildup of ammonia gas from the chickens' droppings, which will damage their lungs. Build wide roosting bars. To help prevent frostbite on your chickens' feet, they should have a roost wide enough for the hens to perch with their bodies covering the tops of their feet and the roost covering the bottom. Installing a 2x4 with the 4” side facing up is a good choice. Use a heater. If you face particularly chilly winters, you may consider putting a small heater in the coop. You don't want the coop too warm, just a little above freezing. If the coop is too warm, your chickens won't get used to the cold weather. An electric light bulb is a good option, as it provides heat without being as much of a fire hazard, and will be cheaper to run. Change the bedding every few days. You want to reduce moisture in the coop, so don't allow your chickens to roost in wet bedding, especially in cold weather. Make sure the bedding material is both deep and dry, or else you'll be dealing with wet conditions, which can quickly lead to disease. Feed a little more. Consider adding a little more to your chickens' diet during the colder weather by supplementing it with corn or scratch. This will help add a little more fat to your animals for better insulation. This doesn't replace your regular feeding amount, just adds a little bit more. Make sure their water is fresh. You want to make sure your birds stay hydrated, so keep their water filled and clean. If you notice any ice beginning to form, break it up. Remove any eggs. Chicken eggs are nearly 75 percent water, so if they stay in the coop, they will probably freeze and crack, getting everything wet.	Wait until the evening. Check for signs of frostbite. Apply petroleum jelly. Reapply when skin is dry. Get cold-weather chicken breeds. Ventilate the coop. Build wide roosting bars. Use a heater. Change the bedding every few days. Feed a little more. Make sure their water is fresh.
https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Frozen-Chicken-Breasts	How to Cook Frozen Chicken Breasts	To cook frozen chicken breasts, start by putting them on a baking pan lined with aluminum foil. Then, season the chicken breasts and place the pan in the oven. Cook the frozen chicken breasts for 45 minutes at 350 °F. You can also cook frozen chicken breasts in a pan on the stovetop. First, cut the chicken breasts into small cubes or strips. Then, add the small pieces to a pan with a little bit of oil and cook them for 4 minutes over medium-high heat. After 4 minutes, lower the heat and let the chicken simmer for 15 minutes before serving.	Find a broiler pan or roasting pan that has a raised bed. You can also set a roasting rack over a regular pan. Raising the pan will allow the juices to drip down as the chicken cooks. Cover the broiler pan with aluminum foil. This will keep the pan clean and help the chicken to cook faster. Preheat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit (180° Celsius). Set a rack in the middle of the oven. Always make sure you cook the frozen breasts at 350 degrees Fahrenheit and above to kill any bacteria that can grow at lower temperatures. If you do not want dry roasted chicken breasts, you can place the chicken in a non-stick dish. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit (190 degrees Celsius) to account for the fact that you will cover the dish. You will bake it for approximately the same time. Remove 1 to 6 chicken breasts from the freezer. It is not necessary to rinse the breasts or give them a water bath before cooking them. Place the chicken breasts on an aluminum foil-lined pan. Arrange them so there is enough space between each breast. Mix up your favorite spices. You will need 1 to 6 tbsp. of spices, depending upon how many chicken breasts you plan to cook. Use salt and pepper and a little lemon, if you want a simple recipe. You can also buy pre-made spice mixes for chicken. If you want a more tangy dish, pour barbecue sauce or another wet sauce onto the chicken breasts in your non-stick pan. Sprinkle 1/2 to 1 tbsp. of seasoning on one side of the chicken breasts. Then, flip the chicken breasts over using tongs to season to the other side. Avoid touching the raw, frozen chicken with your hands. Use a cooking brush to apply any sauce on the chicken and use tongs to move the uncooked chicken around on the pan. Place your pan in the oven. Set the timer for 30 minutes, or 45 minutes if you aren't planning to add sauce to the chicken. Because you are cooking the chicken breasts frozen, you will need to increase the standard cooking time by 50 percent. So chicken breasts that would usually cook for 20 to 30 minutes should cook for 30 to 45 minutes if they are put in frozen. Remove the pan after 30 minutes. Brush extra barbecue sauce or marinade onto the chicken. Place the pan back in the oven. Set your timer for 15 minutes. Check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer. This is a very important step, as cooking time alone is not a reliable way to ensure the chicken is fully cooked. Once the timer goes off and the chicken has been cooking for 45 minutes, insert the meat thermometer into the center of the breast. Once it reaches 165 degrees Fahrenheit (74 degrees Celsius), you can take it out and serve it. Dice up the frozen chicken. You can sear and cook frozen chicken on the stovetop whole but dicing or cutting it into strips will allow for quicker cooking time. You can use the microwave to thaw the chicken a bit to make it easier to cut it up, but always use microwaved chicken right away. Season the chicken. You can apply a seasoning mix, a sauce, or a salt-and-pepper rub before freezing the chicken or while it is thawing as it cooks. You can also cook the chicken in a broth to add more flavor and prevent the meat from drying out. Keep in mind seasoning put directly on frozen chicken will not absorb into the meat. Place one tablespoon cooking oil in a pan. Use olive oil, vegetable oil, or butter. Turn the pan to medium high heat and let the oil warm up or the butter melt. Add in any broth, like chicken or veggie broth, if you are using it. Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Keep the temperature at medium heat. Cover the pot so the breasts can cook. Cook the breasts for 2-4 minutes. Try not to lift the lid and peek at the chicken as this allows heat to escape. Like baking the frozen chicken, cooking the chicken will still take 50 percent longer to cook than if it were thawed. After 2-4 minutes of cooking, add in any spices or seasonings to the chicken. Flip the chicken breasts over. Use kitchen tongs to do this. Turn the heat to low and cover the pan. Set a timer for 15 minutes and let the chicken simmer. Again, avoid lifting the lid to peek at the chicken. Turn off the heat and let the chicken breasts sit for 15 minutes. Once the chicken has cooked for 15 minutes, you need to let it sit. Check the temperature of the chicken. Take the lid off and check if the chicken is done by using a meat thermometer. The chicken should be at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit. Make sure there is no pink in the middle of the chicken breasts. Finished.	Find a broiler pan or roasting pan that has a raised bed. Cover the broiler pan with aluminum foil. Preheat the oven to 350° Fahrenheit (180° Celsius). Remove 1 to 6 chicken breasts from the freezer. Place the chicken breasts on an aluminum foil-lined pan. Mix up your favorite spices. Sprinkle 1/2 to 1 tbsp. Place your pan in the oven. Remove the pan after 30 minutes. Place the pan back in the oven. Check the chicken's internal temperature with a meat thermometer. Dice up the frozen chicken. Season the chicken. Place one tablespoon cooking oil in a pan. Place the chicken breasts in the hot skillet. Cook the breasts for 2-4 minutes. Flip the chicken breasts over. Turn the heat to low and cover the pan. Turn off the heat and let the chicken breasts sit for 15 minutes. Check the temperature of the chicken. Finished.
https://www.wikihow.com/Express-a-Paralyzed-Dog%27s-Bladder	How to Express a Paralyzed Dog's Bladder	To express a paralyzed female dog's bladder, squat in front of the toilet, hold her backside over the bowl, and let her body rest on your left leg or knee. Next, stabilize her with your left hand and reach under her body with your right hand. Then, cup your fingers under her abdomen and feel around for something that's about the size of a lemon and squishy like a water balloon. Finally, squeeze gently, pushing slightly toward the back of her body to empty the bladder.	Know the complications that can happen when a dog can't urinate properly. Possible medical issues that can arise in a dog that can't urinate include urinary tract infections and urine scalding, in which the shin is burned by long term contact with urine. An overflowing or leaking bladder is an invitation to urinary infections, which, if not treated, can lead to lethal complications. It is also important not to allow bladders to overflow because this can lead to loss of bladder tone. Then, when a dog might recover its bladder control, the bladder will not function correctly. Consider the commitment involved. Deciding to help your dog urinate is a major commitment. You will have to do it about 4-6 times a day. Luckily it only takes about 10 - 20 seconds each time. Still, many vets do not encourage people to try expressing their dog's bladder because it takes such an intense commitment. Unfortunately, the main option other than manually emptying a dog's bladder is to euthanize the dog. Understand your dog's urinary system. With the bladder, you have to empty it often or the dog will become poisoned by its urine. Urine will not come out by itself; it will only overflow what the bladder CANNOT contain as more urine flows into the bladder from the kidneys. The rest stays put. That's one reason why disabled dogs are so prone to urinary tract infections. What about the poop? The poop is really different from the pee. The poop will come out on its own, without your helping, eventually. There's no risk of it staying inside and causing infection. Get instruction from your veterinarian. Have your vet give you a demo first, so that you know the correct pressure to apply. If necessary, the next day go back and express under supervision of the vet or his vet tech to make sure you have gotten all the urine out of your dog's bladder. Squat in front of the toilet, holding the dog with its backside over the bowl, and its body resting on your left leg or knee. In this position the dog's head will be looking behind you. You can also do this outside over grass, but it will probably be more convenient for you to simply take your pup into the bathroom. Stabilize the dog with your left hand. Then reach under her body with your right. Cup your fingers as though you were going to pick up a lemon, under her abdomen. Feel around for something that has the dimensions of a lemon and the consistency of a water balloon. Squeeze gently, pushing slightly toward the back of the dog. It takes some practice, but the hardest part is learning the "feel" of the bladder. This is the part that you veterinarian will be most helpful at explaining or demonstrating. Your dog may lift their tail when you have found the right spot. Ensure that you have emptied the bladder completely. When the urine stream goes from a stream to a trickle, the bladder is fully expressed. The bladder will feel "flat" once it is totally empty. It should take less than a minute for the whole bladder to empty. Take your dog outside. With a male dog, the aim is harder, so emptying his bladder into the toilet would be more difficult. You can stand or squat with the dog. Hold the dog in your left arm, in horizontal position, with its hindquarters resting on your left leg. Your left hand should be supporting the dog around his rib cage. Reach under the dog with you right hand. You should feel above the base of his genitals for the bladder. Sometimes it is quite high up in the body. Squeeze gently. The urine must make a right angle turn through the urethra, so don't worry about squeezing toward any direction. Again, continue squeezing until the bladder is flat. Make a potty station. It will consist of a small ladder, a bar, and a sling. In order to adjust the height of the sling handles that hold the dog's abdomen, put some nails along the bar. Securely fasten the nails (or screws) along the areas where the handles hang off the bar. You will want to be able to move the handles further apart to raise your dog's rear end up, so each nail should be a few inches apart, so that the height can be adjusted gradually. Use the sling to help your dog stand up and walk to under the ladder. If your dog can't walk on its front legs, then you will need to carry your dog to put it in position. Place the bar through the two handles of the sling and onto the rungs of the ladder. You will want to hook the handles on the nails on the bar, beginning at the positions that are closest together. Adjust the sling height using the nails on the bar. Put the handles at different positions on the bar, moving one side at a time, one nail at a time, until the dog's rear end is supported by the sling. When positioned correctly, the dog's rear end should be supported but not so high that their back feet are more than a few inches off the ground. You should be supporting the back weight of your dog while you adjust the sling. Use one arm to hold the dog up while you use the other to move the sling handles. Let the back of the dog go and let the sling hold it. Your potty station should hold the dog up securely. Use both of your hands to express your dog's bladder, squeezing gently from both sides. The dog will learn to fall back and let the sling will hold it at the right position. The sling should be positioned so that the bladder is right behind the sling area and hence easy to locate and express. The whole process takes only 5 minutes to accomplish, and if necessary, one person can do it by himself (for a 70 pound dog!).	Know the complications that can happen when a dog can't urinate properly. Consider the commitment involved. Understand your dog's urinary system. Get instruction from your veterinarian. Squat in front of the toilet, holding the dog with its backside over the bowl, and its body resting on your left leg or knee. Stabilize the dog with your left hand. Cup your fingers as though you were going to pick up a lemon, under her abdomen. Squeeze gently, pushing slightly toward the back of the dog. Ensure that you have emptied the bladder completely. Take your dog outside. Hold the dog in your left arm, in horizontal position, with its hindquarters resting on your left leg. Reach under the dog with you right hand. Squeeze gently. Make a potty station. Use the sling to help your dog stand up and walk to under the ladder. Place the bar through the two handles of the sling and onto the rungs of the ladder. Adjust the sling height using the nails on the bar. Let the back of the dog go and let the sling hold it. Use both of your hands to express your dog's bladder, squeezing gently from both sides.
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-the-Girl-You-Like-when-She-Knows-You-Like-Her	How to Get the Girl You Like when She Knows You Like Her	To get a girl who knows you like her, try to find out if she's open to dating you by asking her friends. Once you know she wouldn't mind dating you, take any opportunity you can to talk to her. For example, sit near her in class, join a group she goes to, or invite her to a group hangout. When you see her, talk about things she's interested in and people you both know. After you've hung out a few times, be brave and ask her if she wants to be your girlfriend. For example, say something like, “I'm not sure if you know or not, but I really like you. Would you like to go out with me?” Alternatively, write her a letter telling her how you feel and asking her out, which will give her more time to think about it.	Watch her body language for signs she's interested in you. Girls often use their body language to try to hint to guys how they feel about them. Since she already knows that you like her, look for small signs that tell you how she feels. These could be things like checking to see if she's facing you when you talk to her, or if she plays with her hair when you're around, both of which are positive signs. If she leans in close and smiles when she's with you, she might like you back. If she's facing her friends while you're talking, or she leans away when you ask her something, these are signs she might not have the same feelings as you. Notice if she tries to make eye contact with you often. If she looks into your eyes when you're talking or tries to catch your attention from across the room, she may like you back. If she doesn't make eye contact when you're talking to her and instead looks around the room or at others, this is a sign she doesn't have strong feelings for you. Since she knows that you like her, she'll likely feel more confident making eye contact with you if she does like you back. Take note of any light touches she gives you while you're interacting. Touching someone on the arm or shoulder is often a sign of flirting. If you notice her laughing and touching your elbow at something you've said, or she brushes an eyelash off of your face for you, it's a sign she might be interested in you. Be aware that some girls are naturally flirtatious and touch people as a way of simply communicating, so don't rely on this as the only way to tell if she likes you back. See if she's invested in the conversation between the two of you. This is a great way to see if she likes you back. If she's interested in you, she'll want to keep talking to you and will ask you questions about yourself. If she answers questions using just a few words or doesn't make an effort to keep up the conversation, she might not be interested. If she asks you questions about your day or what your interests are, she might like you back. Notice whether she texts you back quickly and what time of the day she texts you. If she starts up conversations with you early in the morning or in the evening, this means she's thinking about you. Pay attention to how her friends act around you. Since she knows you like her, it's likely that her friends know you like her as well. Because of this, her friends will be paying more attention to the two of you when you're interacting. If you see her friends smiling and looking encouraging when you two are talking, this is a good sign that she might be interested in you. If you really want to know how she feels about you, try asking one of her friends for their opinion. It's likely that the friend knows of her true feelings and might be willing to tell you or give you a hint. Acknowledge your feelings for her. Since she already knows you like her, it's best to let her know that you know she's aware of your feelings for her. This helps get rid of any awkwardness you both might be feeling. Tell her that you do like her, but make sure she knows she isn't expected to respond with her own feelings. You might say, "I know you found out that I like you, and I wanted you to know that those are my real feelings. But it's totally okay if you're not sure how you feel about me right now." Be yourself and avoid acting super nervous around her. Even if you're feeling shy because she knows you like her, try to be as authentically you as possible. If you're only acting a certain way to get her to like you, you won't be starting off a friendship or relationship that's real, and she'll likely notice that you're not being yourself. If she's acting awkward around you, know that it's likely because she isn't sure how to act now that she knows you like her. While it can be tempting to try to avoid her the first few days after she finds out you like her, it's best to go on pretending like nothing has changed. Smile at her to show that you’re friendly. A smile is a great way to immediately look happier and more attractive. Give her a soft smile when talking to her, or smile and wave at her when you see her in the halls or among friends. Smiling makes you look more confident and will show her that you don't mind that she knows you like her. Ask her questions about herself to get to know her better. Break any awkward barriers by trying to strike up a conversation with her between classes, at lunch, or after school. Ask her questions about her family, favorite hobbies, or future goals. It's likely that she'll ask you questions about yourself too, helping her get to know you as well. For example, you might ask, “What's your favorite thing to do on the weekend?” or “Do you have any pets?” Asking her questions will help you figure out what she's passionate about and what you two have in common. Listen to what she says and remember little things about her. When she's answering your questions or just talking about different things, pay attention to what she's saying. It's not only important to show her that you're hearing what she's saying by making eye contact and smiling, but remembering the little things she tells you and bringing them up later could impress her. For example, if she mentions what her favorite candy is, you could bring her this type of candy the next time you see her. If she's been telling you how worried she is about a test or project coming up, send her an encouraging text the morning of her big day. Make eye contact to create a stronger connection. Try not to feel like you need to avoid looking at her too often now that she knows you like her. When she sees you glancing at her, she's more likely to enjoy the attention now that she understands you're interested in her. Look her in the eyes when you're having a conversation, or make eye contact from across the room to catch her attention. Hold her gaze for a few seconds if she glances at you before looking away. Avoid making eye contact for longer than 3 or 4 seconds so it doesn't look like you're just staring. Make her laugh to show off your humorous side. This could be done by telling jokes or by saying funny comments when you're having a conversation. Even just laughing at funny things she says will show that you enjoy humor and are fun to be around. Make puns when you're talking together, or text her a funny joke or meme that you found to make her laugh. Have confidence in yourself. Even if you're feeling super nervous about asking her, showing little bits of confidence will help you do a better job and may even influence her answer. Stand or sit up straight when you ask, and speak in a clear voice without mumbling or being too quiet. By pretending to be confident even when you don't feel it on the inside, you'll come across as much more self-assured. Give yourself a pep talk beforehand, reminding yourself that no matter what she says you're an awesome person who deserves someone. Be open about how you feel about her. Even though she already knows you like her, she'll want to hear about your feelings directly from you. Be honest and let her know that you really like her, adding on a compliment or two if desired to make the statement more heart-felt. It's best to tell her how you feel about her in person, making eye contact to avoid seeming shy or uncertain. Instead of just saying, "I like you," you can make it sound more natural by saying something like, "I really like your personality and how much you care about other people." Think about what you’ll say beforehand so you feel more prepared. If you're worried about finding the right words to ask her out or messing up, try planning out what you want to say before you ask her. You can write down what you want to say and practice it in a mirror, or just spend a few moments thinking about how you want to ask her before actually doing it. You might say something like, “I think you're a really kind and creative person, and I'd love to get to know you more. Would you want to go on a date with me?” Try to ask her in person when she’s not around other people. Being asked out while you're in front of your friends or family members can make the situation more uncomfortable. Find a moment when she's not surrounded by others to ask her out so she won't feel awkward or watched. If you're with other people, pull her aside nicely so that you're not right next to other people who can hear what you're saying. Ask her to go on a walk with you to ask her privately, or ask her while the two of you are studying. Write a letter or note to give to her if you’re too nervous to ask in person. Sometimes the thought of telling someone how you feel and asking them out in person is just too nerve-racking, and that's okay. Instead, try writing down your feelings in a note or letter, asking her out at the end of it. Not only is this sweet, but it will give her time to think about her own feelings and how she wants to respond. Write her a note and hand it to her when you see her, telling her to open it later. In your note you might say, “I wanted to let you know how much I love spending time with you and think you're really smart. I'd love to go out with you, if you'd want to.” Avoid asking her over a text because this isn't as personal or thought out. Plan ideas for what you might do together if she says yes. This is especially important if you're asking her in person. If she does say yes, you'll want to be able to suggest something to do to make the plan more solid. Ask her if she wants to go to a movie or grab a bite to eat at a restaurant nearby. Ask her if she wants to study together for a casual meet-up. Invite her to a group outing to make her feel more comfortable. Plan a fun activity that she's interested in to show how much you like her. Accept her feelings whether she likes you or not. If you asked her out and she said yes, awesome! But if she doesn't feel the same way towards you, try not to take it personally. Be respectful of her feelings and know that there's someone else out there for you.	Watch her body language for signs she's interested in you. Notice if she tries to make eye contact with you often. Take note of any light touches she gives you while you're interacting. See if she's invested in the conversation between the two of you. Pay attention to how her friends act around you. Acknowledge your feelings for her. Be yourself and avoid acting super nervous around her. Smile at her to show that you’re friendly. Ask her questions about herself to get to know her better. Listen to what she says and remember little things about her. Make eye contact to create a stronger connection. Make her laugh to show off your humorous side. Have confidence in yourself. Be open about how you feel about her. Think about what you’ll say beforehand so you feel more prepared. Try to ask her in person when she’s not around other people. Write a letter or note to give to her if you’re too nervous to ask in person. Plan ideas for what you might do together if she says yes. Accept her feelings whether she likes you or not.
https://www.wikihow.com/Replace-a-Thermostat	How to Replace a Thermostat	Before replacing a thermostat, shut off the power to your thermostat at the breaker box. Remove the old thermostat from the wall and make notes on how all of the wiring was attached so you can easily rewire the new unit. Also, keep all of the disconnected wires hanging out of the wall by tying them together. Install the replacement wall plate and hook the new thermostat up to the old wires. Once the new thermostat is on the wall, turn power back on from the breaker.	Purchase a replacement thermostat that will work with your system. Review the compatibilities listed on the packaging of the replacement thermostat. Most replacement thermostats are compatible with all common systems. However, if your system is unique, finding a replacement thermostat may be difficult. Here are your basic options (information that should be easily found on the packaging): "Works with 1 stage heating or cooling" : Used when you have separate heating and air conditioning units "Works with 2 stage or multi-stage heating or cooling" : Used for heating or cooling units that have designated high and low speeds "Works with Direct Line Voltage ": Used with 110 or 240 direct current power sources to power the thermostat (generally seen in older homes) "Works with 24mV" : Used with fireplaces, floors, or wall furnaces "Zoned HVAC" : Used when both heating and cooling are individually controlled in different areas from the same system Review the manufacturer instructions for wiring your replacement thermostat. Most thermostats utilize similar installation methods; however, it's beneficial to read all materials and preview all pictures provided for how to install your new thermostat. Or you risk literally being stuck in the cold! Reading instructions is a total drag, yes. But this is not something you want to mess up! Read them and study the pictures. You want yours to match detail for detail. It's also a smart idea to always take pictures of the existing wiring before you start. Shut off the power to your thermostat. Turn the switches off at the breaker box that pertain to your thermostat, furnace and air conditioner. Turning off the power to the thermostat reduces the chances of electrical injuries as you remove the old thermostat and install the new one. Remove the old thermostat from the wall. Most thermostats slide upward from where they are attached to the wall. Loosen the screws that attach the wall plate to the wall, if there is one. Some thermostats have a base and sub-base. You need to remove the entire thermostat -- all you should be left with is exposed wires and a bare wall, nothing else. If the wires you expose are corroded and there is enough wire length, re-strip the wires. Otherwise, scrape the ends with a utility knife until they are shiny. Pay attention to how the old thermostat was wired as you disconnect it. This is the most important step. Most thermostats wires are coded, but some (if done by an amateur previously) can be coded incorrectly. To make sure you're doing it right: With a piece of tape, write a letter on each wire, matching the letter of the connection on the thermostat base. If the blue wire was in connection B, write "B" on the piece of tape, and put the tape on the wire. Label or designate any wires that were loose and unconnected to your thermostat as well. Ignore the colors of wires, except for your own identification purposes. Thermostats wired by non-professionals do not usually adhere to codes, so the colors may not match what they should. Keep the disconnected wires hanging out of the wall. Tie the wires together or tape them to the wall to keep them from falling back into the wall. A lost wire will turn this rather easy process into quite the debacle. Pro tip? Wrap all the wires around a pencil. The weight of the pencil is just enough to keep the wires from going anywhere. Install the replacement wall plate. Use the new wall plate as a template to mark where the holes you need to drill for the screws will be. Use a level if necessary. Then, drill the holes, and screw the replacement wall plate into its new position on the wall. If your new thermostat has a mercury tube (that is to say, if your new thermostat is rather old school), your device needs to be completely level or it won't render accurate readings. Using a level is very important in this scenario and is not just for aesthetic reasons. Make sure you're drilling holes that match the size of your screws. A 3/16" drill bit is fairly standard. Your thermostat definitely comes with screws, and probably comes with anchors. Make sure to use the anchors, too. They support the system on the wall. Hook up the thermostat to the wires. Use your notes or labels to re-connect the wires to the thermostat – or, follow the pictures you took of the pre-existing wiring. You can twist the wires onto the thermostats connectors, or follow the directions manual provided by the manufacturer. Your new thermostat should have the same corresponding code on the back, unless otherwise noted in the instructions. If you're at all in doubt, contact a heating and cooling company. Some thermostats are as simple as a two-wire system. Some have 5. If you have empty ports or connections, don't worry. Your thermostat is most likely fine. Place the thermostat on the wall. Replace all wires back into the wall, if extra length is exposed. Place the thermostat flush against the wall, slightly above the wall plate. Slide it down so it catches the grooves (or screws) on the wall plate to sit in place. If your thermostat isn't in a good location (it's exposed to drafts or heat, which can mess up the readings, or it's too high or low for you), you'll need to contact a professional to have wires moved. Activate the power back to the thermostat, furnace and air conditioner. Switch on the proper switches in the breaker box to restore power. Give it a minute to kick on. And don't forget to install the batteries! Most systems require 2 AA batteries to work. Make sure the batteries aren't old, they're in place, and the polarities are correct Check to make sure your replacement thermostat is working. Set the thermostat so the furnace and the air conditioner will come on at different times. Give your furnace and air conditioner at least 5 minutes each time to activate. If the thermostat does not work properly, retrace your steps to see where you made a mistake. You may need to hit the reset button on your new thermostat. Some will not start until this button is pushed. Program your thermostat. Each type of thermostat is different, so read your manual if you have questions. Just remember that a programmable thermostat can save you loads of money -- have it be cooler when you're gone and warmer when you're there. It'll turn off without you, saving you money and saving energy to boot! Make sure your car has cooled down. It won't be a good day if you singe off your eyebrows and get third-degree burns on your hands, so turn off your car and let it cool down before you open up the hood and get to work. Let it sit for at least an hour before you start dissecting its parts. It's not a dumb idea to protect yourself with goggles or gloves, either. If you don't want anything getting in your eyes or your hands getting covered in gunk, get out the protective gear. And, of course, a shirt you don't mind smudging with grease or oil. Drain the antifreeze out of your car. The thermostat and radiator hose are linked to your car's cooling system; if you don't drain out the coolant, you're gonna get water everywhere when you start disassembling. Here's how: Place a bucket (or some sort of container) underneath your radiator. You'll have somewhere between 4 to 8 cups of fluid pouring out, so don't skimp on the size of your container. At the bottom of the radiator, there should be a draining screw or cap (technically, it's a radiator drain cock). Twist this to the left, opening it up. Let all the water and coolant flow out. Keep the cap somewhere you won't lose it. Locate your thermostat. Every model of car is different. Some thermostats you could spot from a mile away, others will be an obstacle to even the most trained of eyes. If looking at your car's engine is like reading gibberish, find the radiator hose and follow it to the end -- that'll be where your thermostat is located. The body of the thermostat is probably metal with a bit of gold in the center and possible a rubber ring around the edges. It resembles a top or dreidel in shape and size, or, a small plunger. If you're not quite sure what you're doing, consult your manual or look up the location online. It's better to know what you're looking for instead of poking around and possibly injuring yourself. Remove the radiator hose and take apart the thermostat casing. The hose is most likely clamped to the thermostat casing. Unscrew this and set it aside. Move onto the thermostat casing, exposing the thermostat itself. You will definitely need a screwdriver, and you may need pliers, for the record. Most vehicles have a two-bolt or three-bolt system for the thermostat casing. If corrosion and gunk is building up prominently, clean up the area before you go about adding your new thermostat. A bit of water will probably come out with removal of the hose. This is normal. If desired, test your thermostat. Is it possible that your thermostat works, it's just stuck closed or a different part of your vehicle is starting to kick the bucket, affecting your thermostat's ability to make accurate readings? If so, it's very easy to test your thermostat. Here's how: Get a pot of water boiling. Insert your thermostat. The thermostat should open at around 190 ºF (88 ºC). Since water boils at 212ºF (100ºC), this is more than enough. If the thermostat doesn't open in the water (and then close when it cools), you need a new one. Swap out your old thermostat for the new one. From here on out, it's mainly a matter of reassembly -- the easy stuff. Replace your thermostat just like it the old one was positioned. If applicable, replace the rubber ring, too, sealing the edges. If the area is building up dirt and grime, wipe it down with some cleaner first. You want to maximize the life of your thermostat and not have to deal with this again anytime soon. Reassemble the system. You remember what everything looked like, right? Here's a brief checklist: Make sure the thermostat is snug and in place. Bolt down the thermostat casing over top of the thermostat. Finger start your bolt and then bust out your pliers or socket wrench and get to tightening. Be careful not to strip the bolts. Replace the radiator hose and clamp. The radiator should be snug on the outside of the thermostat casing and the clamp must be well-tightened. Replace the coolant and check for leaks. If the coolant you just drained out was fairly new, just use the same stuff in the bucket and add it back in. If it was old, you may be better off throwing the contents of the bucket out and just using new coolant. Either way, replace the coolant and make sure the radiator drain cock is on tight. Once replaced, check for leaks. Your car needs coolant to operate safely. If yours is leaking, you literally won't get very far. Get back on the roads. You're done! Now all you have to do is keep an eye on your temperature gauge. If it's acting up, do a double check to make sure you secured everything appropriately. If so, you may need to consult a mechanic -- the problem probably lies elsewhere.	Purchase a replacement thermostat that will work with your system. Review the manufacturer instructions for wiring your replacement thermostat. Shut off the power to your thermostat. Remove the old thermostat from the wall. Pay attention to how the old thermostat was wired as you disconnect it. Keep the disconnected wires hanging out of the wall. Install the replacement wall plate. Hook up the thermostat to the wires. Place the thermostat on the wall. Activate the power back to the thermostat, furnace and air conditioner. Check to make sure your replacement thermostat is working. Program your thermostat. Make sure your car has cooled down. Drain the antifreeze out of your car. Locate your thermostat. Remove the radiator hose and take apart the thermostat casing. If desired, test your thermostat. Swap out your old thermostat for the new one. Reassemble the system. Replace the coolant and check for leaks. Get back on the roads.
https://www.wikihow.com/Live-a-Good-Life	How to Live a Good Life	If you want to live a good life, come up with a list of goals that are important for you to achieve, like the career you want to have or places you want to travel. From there, come up with mini-goals for what you need to do in order to accomplish those goals, like going to school or saving up for plane tickets. In addition to pursuing your own goals, you should also build solid relationships with people you care about, which you can do by being trustworthy and being there for them when they need you.	Make a list of what people or things matter to you. When looking for a life plan, it makes sense to prioritize some areas of your life. List all the things that you value in your life. You might list your family, friends, a certain hobby, nature, or career. Take the time to think deeply about the things without which you could not imagine living. For example, while you might like playing basketball, is this one of the most important things in your life? Perhaps it is. If not, it is likely a hobby. Determine your core values. You have your own moral compass, which guides you through life. What are the values you want your life to reflect? Do you strive to be honest? Perhaps you want to be caring and considerate towards others. Maybe you have a strong sense of social justice. Defining your values will help you determine your future actions. For example, if you prize honesty, there are some careers that might not be the best for you. CIA agents, for example, cannot disclose to others what they really do. On the other hand, if you care passionately about social justice, perhaps you could consider studying social work. For additional tips, see Live Life to the Fullest. Find your calling. Every person has his or her own talents and strengths. Aim to live your life in reflection of your unique calling. Finding your calling does not mean following someone else's path. Instead, seek to define what you do well and how you can live a life that incorporates your strength and perhaps helps other people as well. For example, you might be a talented teacher and musician. Perhaps your calling is to teach children piano lessons. On the other hand, you might be a great listener and care about helping others. You might be well-suited to be a psychologist. If dinosaur bones excite you to no end, perhaps your calling is paleontology and spreading knowledge about dinosaurs and environmental change to a new generation. Name your goals. By making goals for life, we can live with a purpose. Do know that at any given time, your goals might change. You can adapt your goals as you move through life. If you have some structure, however, your life likely will be a bit easier. For example, you might want to become a physician. Your mini goals could be attending college, gaining entrance to medical school, graduating, and beginning to practice medicine. Each of these goals will have sub-goals. If your goal, on the other hand, is to have children, first you should think about how you want to have them. Do you want a partner with whom you can raise them? Do you prefer to adopt? What are the different strategies you can pursue to fulfill this goal? Prioritize. After you have ascertained the people who matter to you, your values, and your goals, create priorities. At different points in life, you might prioritize different aspects. For example, while in school, your studies might take precedence. Later, your relationship or children might take more of your focus. By keeping your priorities in mind, you can better schedule your life. See Prioritize for additional tips. Build strong relationships with close ones. Take the time to build solid relationships with the people about whom you care. Listen to their problems. Help them when necessary. When you offend them, apologize and strive to do better. Practice kind gestures like giving people rides or birthday cards. See Have a Healthy Relationship for more advice. Additionally, practice these behaviors: Build a circle of trust. Make sure your family members and friends know they can share their thoughts openly with you. Do not tell other people's secrets. If someone asks you to keep a confidence, do so. Be compassionate towards others. Even if someone wrongs you, if they are sincere in their repentance, show them forgiveness. Do not bring up their past transgressions in moments of anger. Promote healthy communication. Be direct when speaking to others. Listen carefully and attentively. If you have disagreements, try to fight effectively. That is, do not call each other names. Instead, discuss your problems calmly. Make sure you listen to the other person's point of view. For example, it might be wise during arguments to repeat the other person's point of view. This shows you understand. You might say, "What I'm hearing you say is that you are annoyed by the fact that I am always home so late." Ask rather than assume. If you feel a relationship is suffering in some way, talk to the other person openly and candidly. Be a good neighbor. Part of living a good life comes from building a tight-knit local network. If you have neighbors, be helpful to them. Watch their cat when they go on vacation. Offer to shovel an elderly neighbor's driveway. Practice neighborliness and you might find it is contagious. Serve your community. One way to live a good life is to contribute to the community in which you live. You might volunteer at a soup kitchen or run a clothes drive for refugees. Ask your local government representatives or religious organizations for tips on which causes could use help. You also could plan a fundraiser for a cause in the global community. Travel. See what there is to see in the world around you. Explore new areas in your neighborhood or town or if your budget allows, travel farther. There is no way we can visit every place in our lifetime. We can create awareness and develop empathy by traveling to other places, though. Practice hobbies. In addition to your calling and life purpose, you also need to have plain fun! Find hobbies that interest you and incorporate them into your routine. For example, you might join a knitting group or start rock climbing. By doing hobbies, you also will meet more people and have a more fulfilled life. See Find a Hobby. Aim to eat healthy foods. Eat fresh fruits and vegetables and look for whole-grain pastas and breads. Incorporate more poultry and fish into your diet (unless you're vegetarian). Beans, nuts, and eggs also offer you good nutrition. Do not overdo your sodium, carbohydrate, or saturated fat intakes. Drink 9 cups of fluids per day if you are female and 13 cups a day if you are male. Exercise moderately. Try to incorporate 2.5 hours of moderate or 1.25 hours of strenuous cardio exercise per week. To strengthen your muscles, lift twice a week. By exercising regularly, you likely will lead a longer and healthier life. Your heart, muscles, and bones will all benefit. Moderate exercise could be walking, yoga, dancing, or swimming. Strenuous exercise could be running or doing a spin class. Tap into your spirituality. Whether or not you follow a particular religion, find what gives you meaning in your life. Why are you on earth? What nurtures your soul? Particularly when you face difficult moments in life, practicing spirituality can help you cope. Being spiritual also helps you forgive others. Prayer and meditation can help you relax and refocus. Having a community built around spirituality or religion can support you when you are in need. Contemplate gratitude. Every day, when you wake up, express three things for which you are grateful. Perhaps you have a job you love. Maybe you have a very supportive partner. You might have no illnesses. Always taking a moment to reflect on the things for which you are grateful can be very helpful. See Express Gratitude for ideas on how to express your gratitude to others. Practice counting your blessings before bedtime by journalling about three positive moments from your day. Contemplate why these moments occurred and what actions of yours did or did not lead to them. Keep problems relative. Part of living a good life is not getting wrapped up in the daily problems we all face. While it is important to Handle Problems , take a moment to think about what is going well in your world. Perhaps you saw someone escort an elderly lady across the street. Maybe the children at your local school are collecting food for the homeless. Do you still have your health? Are you not penniless? Do you still have loved ones? Though you might be missing some of these things, keeping your problems in a relative position is helpful. Get outside. One way to be grateful for life and to enjoy life is to engage with nature. Ride your bike along the river or take a walk in the forest. Listen carefully for the different animals' and insects' noises. Smell the plants or fresh rain. The world is filled with amazing attributes. Take a moment to let it sink in. Consider taking a reflective, multi-sensory walk in which you do not focus on any technology. Rather, look around you, notice different buildings or trees in your environment. Focus on the smells coming from a bakery or fresh-cut grass. Listen to people's voices or the wind in the trees. Abstain from pleasurable activities temporarily. Sometimes to appreciate the good things we have in life, we need to take a pause from them. The pause could be a week or a month. When we return to our activities, we are more likely to realize how lucky we are to have them. For example, perhaps you have a pumpkin latte every day in October. Try taking a week off. You will appreciate the drink and its impact on your happiness even more.	Make a list of what people or things matter to you. Determine your core values. Find your calling. Name your goals. Prioritize. Build strong relationships with close ones. Promote healthy communication. Be a good neighbor. Serve your community. Travel. Practice hobbies. Aim to eat healthy foods. Exercise moderately. Tap into your spirituality. Contemplate gratitude. Keep problems relative. Get outside. Abstain from pleasurable activities temporarily.
https://www.wikihow.com/Marry-Someone-in-Prison	How to Marry Someone in Prison	If you want to marry someone in prison, you'll need to familiarize yourself with the prison's marriage rules and adapt your plans to comply with them. First, find out if the prison your partner is in allows marriages, since some do not. If the prison allows marriages, ask the warden about any paperwork you need to complete, and apply for a marriage license from your state. Keep in mind that your choice of officiant will likely be restricted, because many prisons only allow the prison chaplain to perform the marriage. When you're preparing your outfit for your big day, remember that clothing restrictions often apply, which means you may not be able to wear a full gown or tuxedo. Additionally, avoid taking items to your ceremony that may be prohibited, like cameras or cell phones.	Think about timing. There are a variety of factors that go into choosing when to get married. Some of them involve children or financial benefits. When marrying a prisoner, you must also consider the potential release date. If the release date is soon, you and your spouse will be dealing with the challenges of two major transitions at the same time If the release date is far off, you and your spouse can adjust to being married and then to the release Regardless of the release date, think about whether it may be best to wait until after you and your potential spouse adjust to release before getting married Learn the prison rules. Each prison has its own rules concerning marriage. Talk with the prison chaplain, warden or other appropriate official to learn the rules and policies of your finance's particular prison. Some policies include: Not all prisons allow inmates to marry Some particular inmates are not allowed to marry Some require the prison chaplain officiate Many prisons do not allow conjugal or extended visits after the ceremony Obtain counseling. You and your fiancé should seek counseling regarding your marriage, both separately and together. Some prisons require this prior to allowing an inmate to marry. Further, counseling will likely be beneficial after the prisoner's release. Keep in mind that prison marriages have an even higher failure rate than marriages in which incarceration is not a factor. Complete any paperwork required by the prison. Many prisons require a packet of paperwork to be completed by both potential spouses before granting permission for the wedding to take place. Check with the warden or other appropriate prison official to learn how to submit your application, if necessary. Some common paperwork requirements include: Proof that both potential spouses are of legal age to marry Statements that the marriage is entered into willingly Statements regarding the reason the wedding is requested while one potential spouse is incarcerated Set a date. Unlike in a traditional wedding setting, the prison likely sets strict guidelines about when weddings can and cannot occur. You will need to consider these guidelines when setting your date. Some facilities only allow group weddings on certain days of each year. Some facilities do not allow weddings on weekends. Get a license. Every state requires potential spouses to obtain a marriage license prior to becoming legally married. This requirement is not waived because one potential spouse is in prison. Contact the warden or other appropriate official of the prison in which the inmate is housed to learn the process for obtaining this license. Often, the non-incarcerated potential spouse will be tasked with this. Locate an officiant. In many prisons, you will not have a choice of officiant because the prison will only allow the prison chaplain to officiate weddings. If you can and want to use your own officiant, some things to consider are: The cost the officiant will charge, including any additional costs for travel to and from the prison Whether the officiant is willing to undergo the security measures required by the prison Some prisons maintain a roster of approved officiants Whether the officiant will be allowed to wear any ceremonial garb, such as robes Arrange for guests. Not all prisons allow guests to attend weddings. For witnesses, they require you to use prison officials or other inmates. If your prison allows guests, you want to consider: Any limits the prison may set on the number of guests Any requirements the prison has for approving the individual guests (such as background checks, etc) Any clothing restrictions that will apply to guests when entering the prison Be aware of the clothing restrictions. As with guests and the officiant, there will likely be clothing restrictions for the marrying couple. The inmate will likely be required to wear a prison jumpsuit. The spouse coming in should be aware of any restrictions on clothing. This may require that you forego a tuxedo or formal gown. Some clothing restrictions include: Many prisons restrict revealing clothing, such as low-cut necklines, spaghetti (or no) straps, exposed waistlines, etc. Many prisons restrict clothing with multiple places for storing contraband, such as cummerbunds and multi-paneled, train-length and/or flowing skirts Many clothing decorations are likely to set off the metal detector, such as metallic sequins or beads, jewelry, and certain inserts in high-heeled shoes Leave contraband at home. Talk with the warden or other appropriate prison official for a list of what items may not be brought into the prison for the ceremony. Frequently, items that cannot enter the prison include: Cameras Cell phones Pagers Outside food (such as a wedding cake) Follow the prison’s guidelines. Prison officials will likely be standing by during your ceremony to ensure that no rules are broken, but it is best to talk to the officials to know what is and is not allowed. For instance, prior to the ceremony, you should determine whether there are restrictions on physical contact that will impact whether and how you can kiss once the officiant pronounces you married.	Think about timing. Learn the prison rules. Obtain counseling. Complete any paperwork required by the prison. Set a date. Get a license. Locate an officiant. Arrange for guests. Be aware of the clothing restrictions. Leave contraband at home. Follow the prison’s guidelines.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Ballgown	How to Make a Ballgown	If you're interested in making your own ballgown, start by choosing a pattern that suits your body type. Then, choose a classy fabric in subdued colors such as black, blue, pale pink or mint green, or subtle prints like florals and brocades. Next, measure around your bust, waist, and hips to determine what size you will need to make your gown.	Opt for a classy fabric. Neon colors, animal prints, and other loud designs are not ideal for ballgowns, which are usually meant to be worn at upscale formal events. Instead, stick with colors, prints, and textures that are more subdued. Some colors, prints, and textures you might consider for your ballgown fabric include: Dark colors, such as blue, black, plum, and green. Pastels, such as pale pink, baby blue, and mint green. Subdued prints, such as florals, brocades, and other subdued graphic details. Textured fabrics, such as lace, dotted Swiss, and tulle. Look for long dress patterns. Ballgowns are usually floor length, so choose a dress design that will go all the way to the ground. If you do not want your gown to go all the way to the ground, then opt for a design that is at least long enough to cover your ankles. Make sure to consider the shoes you will be wearing as well. If you will be wearing heels, then you might want to show them off a bit, and an ankle length dress will work best for this. Steer clear of revealing designs. Showing too much of your cleavage, back, or legs can take your ballgown from classy to trashy. It's okay to show a small amount of skin while you are wearing your dress, but make sure that you do not go overboard. For example, you might opt for a dress that shows off your arms, a small amount of cleavage, part of your back, or a glimpse of your legs with a conservative slit. Consider what your partner will be wearing. If you will be wearing your ballgown to an event that is meant to honor your partner, such as a Marine Ball, then make sure that you consider your partner as you design your gown. Some questions you might consider include: What type of ballgown would complement his uniform? What colors does he like on you? What type of design might he enjoy seeing you in? Select a pattern that matches your skill set. There are many beautiful sewing patterns available for making a ballgown. Take some time to visit your local craft store and look through the pattern catalogs. Consider the styles that suit your body type best to help you narrow down your choices. Then, purchase the pattern that suits your style for the ballgown. Sewing patterns require varying degrees of skill to use. Consider your level of sewing expertise as you consider patterns. For example, if you are a beginner sewer, then stick to patterns that are labeled as “beginner” or “easy.” If you are an experienced sewer, then look for patterns labeled as “intermediate” or “advanced.” Take your measurements. When using a pattern, it is important to use measurements to determine what size you need to make your ballgown in rather than relying on the size you normally wear. Measure around your bust, natural waist, and the widest part of your hips. Then, check the chart on your pattern to determine what size you will need to make your ballgown. Buy your fabric. Your ballgown will probably require a large amount of fabric since most ball gowns have long, flowing skirts. Check your pattern's package to determine how much fabric you will need to buy. Depending on the style of your ballgown, you may need more or less fabric. The required amount of fabric should be indicated on the back of the pattern's package. When you are working on a sewing project, it is always better to buy more fabric than you think you will need. Consider rounding up the patterns suggested fabric amounts to the nearest whole amount. For example, if the pattern recommends 2 ¾ yards of a specific type of fabric, then you might want to round up to 3 yards. Consider your pattern's recommendations for fabric type when you are selecting a fabric. For example, if the pattern recommends using a lightweight fabric, such as satin or crepe, then stick to these types. Subbing for a heavier fabric may affect the way the dress hangs and moves. Buy your notions. Check the pattern's indications for what you will need to execute the design. Along with fabric, your pattern may also require you to buy interfacing, a zipper, hook and eye closures, ribbon, or other notions. Make a list of everything you will need and purchase these items before you begin working on your ballgown. Cut out the pattern pieces as indicated. When you have all of your materials together, take all of the pattern sheets out of the package. Lay one out on a table or other clean, flat work surface and begin cutting around the edges of the pieces as indicated. You should see lines on your package indicating where to cut for each size. Cut along the lines indicated for your size. Cut carefully and make sure that you do not cut the pattern smaller than indicated. You should aim to cut right on the lines or just outside the lines. You may even find it helpful to highlight the lines of the pattern size that you need to make. Fold your fabric and pin the pattern pieces onto it as indicated. You will need to lay out your fabric and then fold it in half. Use your pattern's instructions as a guide to pin your pattern pieces to the fabric. Every pattern will be a little different, so it is important to follow the instructions carefully. If you are unsure about what any of the symbols mean, then check the pattern instructions for a glossary. If you are feeling lost, then you may need to learn how to read a pattern first. You may even consider making a few sewing lessons to improve your sewing skills before you attempt to make a ballgown. Cut out the fabric along the edges of the pattern. After you have finished pinning your pattern pieces to the fabric for your ball gown, you can begin cutting around the edges of your pattern. Make sure to cut along the edges of the pattern pieces and not outside or inside of them. Do not cut inside of the lines or your ballgown may turn out too small. Follow the pattern’s instructions for sewing the fabric pieces together. Every pattern is different, so it is important to follow the directions for the ballgown pattern you have chosen. You will likely need to pin identical pieces of fabric together and then sew along the edges as indicated by the pattern to assemble your dress.	Opt for a classy fabric. Look for long dress patterns. Steer clear of revealing designs. Consider what your partner will be wearing. Select a pattern that matches your skill set. Take your measurements. Buy your fabric. Buy your notions. Cut out the pattern pieces as indicated. Fold your fabric and pin the pattern pieces onto it as indicated. Cut out the fabric along the edges of the pattern. Follow the pattern’s instructions for sewing the fabric pieces together.
https://www.wikihow.com/Blanch-Potatoes	How to Blanch Potatoes	To blanch potatoes, first peel the potatoes if you prefer them skinless. Then, cut the potatoes into equal size pieces, and wash them under running water to remove the starch. Fill a pot with room temperature water and add the potatoes. Bring the water to a simmer over high heat, then lower the heat so the water is barely simmering. Blanch the potatoes for around 12 minutes, or until they're soft on the outside but still hard on the inside. Next, transfer the potatoes to a bowl of ice water and let them sit until they're cool to the touch. Finally, strain the potatoes in a colander and pat them dry with a dish towel. You can store your blanched potatoes in an airtight container or bag in the freezer for up to 3 months.	Peel the potatoes. Using a vegetable peeler, carefully put pressure on the potato skin with the peeler's blade. Run the peeler across the potato to remove the skin. Discard the skins in a trash can. Some people prefer to keep the skin on for added nutrients. This does make the blanching process a bit longer. However, if you prefer the skins, you can skip the peeling process. Cut the potatoes into the desired size. You should dice your potatoes to blanch them, usually cutting them into small cubes. Depending on your recipe or preference, these cubes can be bigger or smaller. If you're making something like french fries, you should cut the potatoes into wedges rather than cubes. Use a sturdy knife and a large, wooden cutting board. Place your potato on the cutting board to start. Slice it in half lengthwise, making sure the knife cuts all the way through the potato. Some potatoes may be slightly harder to cut, so do not hesitate to use some force. Take each half, and cut it into thirds lengthwise, creating large wedges. From here, you can cut these wedges into cubes. If you're making french fries, you can simply blanch the wedges. Wash the potatoes. Before adding the potatoes in the pot, it's important to wash them to remove any starch. Get a colander and place the cut potatoes inside. Run the potatoes underwater in the sink for a couple of minutes, until all potatoes have been thoroughly washed. If there are any bits of dirt or discoloration on the potatoes, make sure to wash them out. You can usually just wash potatoes with running water. If you notice any stubborn bits of dirt or grime, you can rub these out with your hands. Just make sure to wash your hands beforehand. Cool a bowl of tap water to room temperature. For blanching potatoes, you want to start with room temperature water. Pour some lukewarm tap water into a pot. Wait a few minutes for the water to reach room temperature. You can usually test the water just by placing your finger in it, although you should wash your hands first. Lukewarm tap water is usually around room temperature, so it should not take long for your water to get to the right temperature to blanch potatoes. Add the potatoes to the water. Take your sliced potatoes. Place them in the pot of room temperature water. For some vegetables, the water is salted prior to the blanching process. It is not necessary to salt water when blanching potatoes, however. Place the potatoes over high heat until the water begins to simmer. Once the water begins to simmer, reduce the heat right away. You should avoid overcooking your potatoes during the blanching process, as this can cause them to burn easily when you cook them for a recipe. Lower the heat until the water is barely simmering. You will usually have to keep the stove at medium or low heat. Check your potatoes periodically. How long the process will take depends on how many potatoes you're blanching. To avoid accidentally cooking the potatoes, err on the side of caution. Keep the stove more towards the low setting than the medium setting. Prepare an ice bath while the potatoes simmer. You need to cool the potatoes in an ice bath after the simmering process. This will stop them from cooking, and can also preserve some of the color. Take a bowl big enough to fit all your potato slices. Fill it with water and add a few ice cubes until the water is chilly to the touch. As always, wash your hands before touching the cold water. Test the potatoes with a knife after 12 minutes. It should take around 12 minutes for your potatoes to reach the right temperature. At this point, test them with a fork or knife. The potatoes should be soft on the exterior, but you should not be able to easily pass a fork or knife through the potatoes. The tip of the knife or fork should just barely go into the surface of the potato. If the fork or knife can cut through the potatoes with ease, the potatoes are cooked and not blanched. You will have to start the process over. Cook the potatoes for longer, if necessary. If the potatoes are so hard you cannot get the tip of the fork or knife in, cook them for a couple more minutes and check again. Be vigilant about checking, however, as you do not want to accidentally cook the potatoes. Remove the potatoes from the heat. Once the potatoes are blanched, strain them over the sink using a colander or strainer. Then, transfer the potatoes to the ice bath. Leave the potatoes in the ice bath until they're cool to the touch. Potatoes will cool quickly in the ice bath. Check them every few seconds and remove them as soon as they cool down adequately. Pat the potatoes dry after they cool. Remove the potatoes from the ice bath, straining them over the sink using a colander or strainer. Set them out on a few pieces of paper towel and pat them dry. Roast, cook, or fry your potatoes. If you're using the potatoes right away, you can proceed right to the cooking process. Blanched potatoes should roast or fry quicker than regular potatoes. You can simply start cooking according to your recipe's instructions. Add spices to your potatoes. Potatoes can be a bit bland on their own, so experiment with different spices. You could go for spicy potatoes with something like cayenne pepper, or go for a savory taste with garlic salt. You can purchase spice packets at your grocery store. You can, for example, by a cajun spice packet and pour this over the potatoes after cooking them. Freeze the potatoes if you want to use them for later. Blanching is often used prior to freezing vegetables to extend their shelf life. If you're freezing your potatoes, pack them into a sealable plastic container. Make sure to leave a half-inch of space between the potatoes and the container's lid. You can also use a Ziplock bag. Just make sure to squeeze out as much air as you can. For best results, freeze potatoes in a very cold freezer. This will help preserve them for the longest.	Peel the potatoes. Cut the potatoes into the desired size. Wash the potatoes. Cool a bowl of tap water to room temperature. Add the potatoes to the water. Place the potatoes over high heat until the water begins to simmer. Prepare an ice bath while the potatoes simmer. Test the potatoes with a knife after 12 minutes. Cook the potatoes for longer, if necessary. Remove the potatoes from the heat. Pat the potatoes dry after they cool. Roast, cook, or fry your potatoes. Freeze the potatoes if you want to use them for later.
https://www.wikihow.com/Date-a-Divorced-Man	How to Date a Divorced Man	If you're interested in a man who's divorced, allow things to move slowly and naturally so you can both feel secure in the relationship. Someone who has gone through a divorce may not be ready for a serious relationship or may feel nervous about dating again, so try to be patient if typical relationship milestones, like meeting his family, happen at a slower pace. Keep in mind that money might be an issue for a little while since divorce can be expensive and there may be issues of support that he's dealing with. It can take a few years for divorced people to find financial stability, so offer to pay once in a while or remember that you don't have to splurge to have fun. While you'll want to be patient and respectful of his needs, make sure you feel fulfilled and cared for in the relationship.	Anticipate some issues with commitment. Someone who has gone through a divorce in the past year may not be ready for a serious relationship. If you're only looking to date casually yourself, this may not be an issue for you. However, if you're hoping for a more serious romance, make sure the man in question is ready to commit to a romantic relationship. If someone is recently divorced, they may have hesitations regarding commitment. A divorced man may enjoy your company at first, but become nervous if things get serious. He may be afraid of repeating old patterns or mistakes. Going into the relationship, keep in mind emotional intimacy may be an issue. Think about what you want out of the relationship. Are you looking for a potential long-term partner? If so, someone with commitment issues may not be the best choice for you. However, if you're at a time in your life that you're uninterested in a serious romance, the question of commitment may not be as important. You may be fine pursuing something casual. Do not rush things. When dating a divorced man, the relationship may progress slower than usual. Normal relationship milestones, such as meeting the parents and giving things an official label, may happen at a slower pace. Even amicable divorces are painful, and a divorced man may proceed with hesitance. Understand what your partner is going through. In addition to the pain of a divorce, there may be added scrutiny from family members. His parents or siblings may, for example, be distrusting of a new partner. It's not uncommon for a divorced man to want to take things slow. Try to be patient during this process. If you really like this person, it will eventually be worth the wait. If you get frustrated, try to think of all the reasons you're continuing with the relationship. Remind yourself why you were initially drawn to this person. Keep your expectations in check. Navigating a new romantic relationship is always tough. Divorce, however, adds another layer of complication. Do not go into the relationship with specific expectations of how things will progress. A divorced man may be somewhat hesitant or non-committal at first. There are certain things you could reasonably expect from most boyfriends that may be difficult if your partner is divorced. He may be unable to bring you to family events right away, as family members may not be ready to see him dating again. If he has children, they will take priority. You may not be able to see him certain days of the week or certain weekends, as he will be busy with his kids. Spontaneity may not be an option with a divorced partner. He may have his guard up more in regards to romantic gestures, for one, and children from a previous marriage can add a complication. He may not be able to whisk you off for a romantic weekend away, for example, if he has children to care for. Prepare for money to be an issue. Divorce can be very expensive. Between paying for lawyers, and things like alimony and child support, it can take a few years for divorced people to find financial stability. Do not expect a divorced man to be able to spend a lot of money on you. You may have to plan affordable dates much of the time, especially if your boyfriend is recently divorced. Remember, you don't have to splurge to have fun. If money is still a major issue for your boyfriend, try to plan cheap dates. You could have a beach day, for example, or make dinner at home and watch a movie. If you feel comfortable doing so, you can also offer to pay once in awhile. You do not want to feel like you're being taken advantage of, but it can be a nice gesture to occasionally pay for a nice dinner if money is an issue for your boyfriend. Have a discussion about advertising your relationship. A divorced man may have hesitations about advertising the relationship right away. Divorce is complicated. Children, family members, or mutual friends may have loyalty to the previous partner. Before you do something like, say, updating your Facebook relationship status, have a talk with the man you're dating. Strive to be understanding here. Do not take it personally if your boyfriend would rather keep things somewhat discreet for the time being. Dating again after a divorce can cause tension. Your boyfriend may simply want to keep things between the two of you uncomplicated for now. He's not necessarily keeping your relationship discreet because he wants to hide you. Make sure your needs are being met. While you want to have patience, a relationship cannot be all give. If a divorced man is not ready to meet your needs, you cannot have a healthy relationship. At some point, think about what you need and whether you feel this man is capable of providing that. Think about you feel fulfilled and cared for. Is this person making you feel that way? Why or why not? Consider whether there's anything you're agreeing to do that you would rather not do. Is there any way your boyfriend pushes your boundaries? Is there anything you would like to do in the relationship that is not currently an option? Communicate your feelings. If you ever feel your needs are not being met, it's important to communicate as much. You will need to sit down with your boyfriend and talk things out. While his feelings regarding the divorce are important, your feeling as his current partner also matter. Focus in the present moment. Try not to bring things up from the past. Be direct. If something is bothering you, say so outright. For example, "I know you're nervous about introducing me to your family, but it's been six months and I really feel it's time." Listen to your boyfriend's responses. Give him a chance to explain and respond. The two of you may be able to figure out a way to patch things up and move forward. Accept your boyfriend may have a type. Many people get nervous when they realize they're similar to their boyfriend's ex-husband or wife. Everyone has a type of person they're attracted to, and you may very well have things in common with a previous spouse. There's a good chance you will resemble the ex-spouse physically. Your boyfriend may have specific taste. He may be drawn to a certain hair color, eye color, or body type, for example. There may also be similarities in your personality. Your boyfriend may have a tendency to date people with similar interests or personalities. Try not to buy too much into similarities between yourself and an ex-spouse. Chances are, you have a type as well. Even if you're not aware of it, there are probably similarities between your current boyfriend and your ex-partners. Do not complain about his ex. It can be tempting to talk badly about the ex-spouse. This is especially true if your boyfriend's ex has been hostile to you at any point during the relationship. However, it's a bad idea to complain to your boyfriend about his ex. You do not want to come off as jealous or bitter. Also, your boyfriend may harbor negative feelings about his ex that are difficult to process. You do not want to negatively affect his mood by fanning the flames. There may be times when you need to vent about the ex. This is understandable, especially if the ex has not been nice to you. However, if you need to do so, call a friend or family member. Never let your boyfriend overhear you complaining about his ex. Wait until he's out of the house to call a friend and vent. Learn about the circumstances slowly. If you're beginning to get serious, you may want to know about the divorce. How and why a divorce happened says a lot about your boyfriend. It can help you better understand how he approaches a relationship in the present. Avoid asking too much at first. This is especially true if it's uncertain how serious the relationship will be. You may not need to know a lot about the divorce, and the circumstances surrounding it, However, if you're getting serious, it's appropriate to ask. This is especially true if you think this person could become your life partner. You can try to introduce the topic carefully. Say something like, "If you feel comfortable, I'd like to know a little about your divorce. It obviously had a huge impact on your life, and I'd like to know you more as a person." Do not take things personally. There are many little things that may feel like a snub or a rebuff when dating a divorced man. You may, for example, not be invited to certain family dinners or outings with mutual friends of your partner's spouse. Try to remember these things are not personal. It can be very awkward navigating the dating world coming out of a divorce. Your boyfriend is probably not trying to hurt your feelings. Certain situations may simply be difficult or awkward. Keep in mind it rarely has anything to do with you personally. Support him when he wants to spend time with his children. In the beginning of your relationship with him, your boyfriend may opt not to introduce you to his children. Your boyfriend may want to wait to introduce you until your relationship is serious. The kids have already been through a lot with the divorce, so there isn't any sense in letting them get to know a woman who may not be a permanent fixture. Do not compete for his time, especially if he occasionally needs to spend time with his kids. Even after you've been integrated into the family, your boyfriend may still need alone time with his kids. Try to be understanding of this fact. Remember, they will always be the priority. Strive for positive interactions with your boyfriend's children. Children may be distrustful or hostile to a new romantic partner for their parent. They probably have loyalty to your partner's ex. Understand this going in, and strive to keep interactions positive even if there is tension. Plan to meet in a neutral, public setting at first. Try to plan something fun, and appropriate for the children's ages. You can plan to meet at a kid-friendly restaurant or plan a trip to somewhere like the zoo. Ask about the kids. Ask about their hobbies, interests, favorite movies, favorite TV shows, and so on. You want to show your boyfriend, and his kids, you're making an honest effort to get to know them. When appropriate, share a little about yourself. This can help the kids get to know you better. For example, you can interject something like, "Oh, I loved that movie when I was your age too." Understand there may be hostility. You will probably not be accepted by the family right away. This is especially true with children. If your boyfriend has gone through a divorce, there may be a lot of skepticism of a new partner. Going into social interactions, keep this is in mind. Remind yourself it's normal not to be best friends with everyone right away. Try to put yourself in your boyfriend's family's shoes. It's understandable they'll have reservations about a new partner, especially if your boyfriend's divorce was difficult or unexpected. Allow your boyfriend to decide when to introduce you. Never push your boyfriend to introduce you to his family before he is ready, especially his children. There are many reasons your boyfriend may want to hold off on the introductions, and they are usually not personal. Allow him to go at his own pace and be respectful of when and how he chooses to make introductions.	Anticipate some issues with commitment. Do not rush things. Keep your expectations in check. Prepare for money to be an issue. Have a discussion about advertising your relationship. Make sure your needs are being met. Communicate your feelings. Accept your boyfriend may have a type. Do not complain about his ex. Learn about the circumstances slowly. Do not take things personally. Support him when he wants to spend time with his children. Strive for positive interactions with your boyfriend's children. Understand there may be hostility. Allow your boyfriend to decide when to introduce you.
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Clown	How to Be a Clown	To be a great clown, you have to look the part, so design your clown costume using bright colorful clothes and extra large shoes stuffed with tissue paper. Next, plan the major comedy points of your show and decide if you want to add other aspects like juggling or making balloon animals. Decide what kind of clown work you want to do, like working at children's parties or in a circus.	Get your props. The materials you use depend on what kind of clown you want to be. However, there are some general props that are used by many clowns, such as balls for juggling, balloons for making balloon animals, magic trick props if you're doing tricks, and any other silly props you can think of. You can start off with the traditional tools and become more original as you discover who your inner clown really is. Get your music together if it's part of your act. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet1.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Part of your act may include putting face paint on children. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e3\/Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e3\/Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet2.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} If ventriloquism is part of your act, then get yourself a dummy. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/63\/Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet3.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/63\/Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet3.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-1Bullet3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Get a clown costume. You can buy authentic clown costumes from clown suppliers, but they can be a bit pricey, so you can start off with some colorful clothes, Halloween clown costumes, a colorful set of pajamas, or any funny-looking items you can find in a Goodwill or a thrift store. The expensive items can come later, once you are more established, so don't worry about those for now. You'll need a clown costume along with a pair of big, floppy shoes. These shoes can actually be the most expensive part of a clown costume, so try starting off with size 22 Converse or other overly big shoes that you stuff with paper towels at first. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/ad\/Be-a-Clown-Step-2Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-2Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/ad\/Be-a-Clown-Step-2Bullet1.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-2Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Put your makeup on. Contrary to popular belief, not all clowns wear face paint. Clowning is a style of comedy, not a style of makeup. Most clowns use greasepaint for their faces, since this kind doesn't wash off as easily as water-based paint or Halloween paint. If you do put on makeup, there are a variety of makeup styles you can try: Whiteface clown paint. This is the traditional face paint that you may think of when you want to look like a clown. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/fc\/Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/fc\/Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet1.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Auguste clown paint. This type of clown wears makeup that is a bit more flesh-toned. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/5\/54\/Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/5\/54\/Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet2.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Tramp or hobo clown paint. This face paint is a bit darker and sooty looking, because this type of clown is down on his luck. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet3.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/d\/d3\/Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet3.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Character clown paint. What kind of clown do you want to be? Mad scientist? Keystone cop clown? Your character will determine the color and style of makeup you use. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet4.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/97\/Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet4.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-3Bullet4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Decide whether you want a sidekick. Most clowns work for themselves, but some of them are part of a duo, a trio, or even an entertainment company. If you want a sidekick, or if you want to be a sidekick, then see if you can find a clown friend to buddy up with. If you do, think about performance partner and what your relationships are to the audience. Thinking about status may be a good start. Plan your show. Get an idea for major comedy points you want to include, and work out the lead-up and other parts of the comedy. Thinking about problems that need addressing can be a good start e.g a hat that won't stay on your head , or a music stand that keeps falling over. A twist at the end may help, as can thinking about the rule of three (e.g mistake, mistake, success) in an unexpected way. It's almost like a play. If you're so minded, script your act before rehearsal! Here are some things clowns often include in their shows: Making balloon animals {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9f\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9f\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet1.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Miming {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/7\/79\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/7\/79\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet2.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Juggling {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet3.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/90\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet3.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Storytelling {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/62\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet4.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/62\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet4.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Ventriloquism {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet5.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet5.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/e\/e2\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet5.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet5.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Jokes {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4f\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet6.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet6.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4f\/Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet6.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-5Bullet6.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Add magic to your repertoire (optional). If you want to be more of a magician-clown, then you'll need to work on learning some easy magic tricks and work your way up to being a magician all-star. Check out the variety of Magic articles on wikiHow, or take a course in magician training, if you're really serious about this aspect of the job. Just remember that if you want to be a magician clown, you'll need more props, such as a top hat, wand, flashy handkerchief, and so on, and it could get costly. Work on your Slapstick skills. If you want to use slapstick - practice - there is almost nothing less funny than slapstick done badly. The best comedy will try to emulate some real life, such as talking about bosses, home life, and other things people can connect with. try to include jokes about things the likely audience will understand and appreciate! Avoid clown clichés. There is nothing a clown has to do. Unless you have a twist on the obvious, you should try to avoid the most obvious clowning tricks if you want to be successful. Here are some moves that you should generally stay away from: Slipping on banana skins {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/86\/Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet1.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet1.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/86\/Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet1.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet1.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Falling over {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/9\/9e\/Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet2.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/9\/9e\/Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet2.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Chasing your sidekick around {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet3.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet3.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/8e\/Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet3.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet3.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Getting soaked in buckets of water {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet4.jpg\/v4-460px-Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet4.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/8\/89\/Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet4.jpg\/aid473779-v4-728px-Be-a-Clown-Step-8Bullet4.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Rehearse your act. Once you have your act together, you've scripted it and acquired the necessary tools, start practising. An ability to time the jokes just right, and the ability to make a smooth recovery if something goes wrong, is essential. First, try your act on your own and tape yourself to see how you can improve. Then, work your moves on a trusted friend. Open it up to your family or small group of children and see how you do. Decide what kind of clown you want to be. Before you can go off and try to find work, you need to figure out what type of clowning is best for your personality. This can determine how you alter your routine and what kind of clients you will work with. For example, you will do different tricks depending on whether you're working with hospital patients, children, or adults. You can do multiple kinds of clowning, of course, but you should always keep your audience in mind before you perform. Here are some places where you can work: Children's parties Adult parties Children's hospitals Circuses Go to clown school. Clown school used to be more popular, such as the Barnum and Bailey's clown school that was a big hit until the mid-90s, but you can still find some classes to take if you want to improve as a clown. Barnum and Baileys, for example, still offers a one-year clown school if you make the cut, though it does not have a permanent location. Go to clown conferences and camps. If you don't have time for clown school or if there aren't any clown schools in your area, you can still go to clown conventions to learn some tricks and moves from the great masters. The Clowns of America International web site, for example, advertises a clown camp in Orlando in 2014. Going to conventions is a great way to meet other clowns and to improve your skills. Learn the tricks of the trade from other clowns. The CAI website also offers information about Clown Alleys, or places where you can find and learn from groups of other clowns. You can contact these clowns and ask if they wouldn't mind having a student. The best way to learn, really, is to find a clown mentor that is right for you. Remember that, just because a clown is great doesn't mean that he or she is interested in the same kind of clowning that tickles your fancy. Advertise like a professional. If you want to make this a business, try to get some advertisements up around your local area. Contact your local newspaper and local venues to see if you can pay to put up posters and adverts. To really make it as a clown, you'll have to understand marketing and advertising techniques, especially on a local basis, to improve your chances of booking gigs and actually making a profit. Start small. Work a children's birthday party. See if a hospital needs a clown to fill a shift. Clown around at one of your friend's parties. Even working for a small audience will help you get your feet wet and to know what people do and do not like. This will also give you the experience to learn what to do for larger audiences, and to gain the confidence you need to truly succeed as a clown. This is how you will begin to build a following. Even if you've only impressed the friend of a friend, that person may be able to get you your next gig. Consider joining a clown group or a union. These groups or unions will give you more support, knowledge, and credibility and they are a great thing to add to your CV. If you know local clowns, ask them about alleys in your area, which can help you gain skills and network. On the national and international level, check out some of these prestigious organizations: Clowns of America International World Clown Association Clowns Canada Clowns International Continue to improve your skills. Hopefully by now you have put together an act, started on the ladder to stardom, and (if you're really committed) have made some cash as well. With show business, the sky really is the limit! Keep working on juggling, acting, telling stories, doing magic tricks, or whatever it is that makes your show special. Don't get complacent. There is always room for improvement. Continue to improve your engagement with the audience. If you want to be the best clown ever, then you have to be able to know what your audience wants and how to give it to them. Here are some things you will have to work on to succeed in your career: Understanding of audience expectation of your performance's quality and authenticity Ability to speak in public without fear Ability to make children feel comfortable Performing in a way that ensures the safety of your audience Consider auditioning for a circus. If you want to be a circus clown, then you have to build up years of experience first. But if this is the route you want to take, then you have to apply to be a clown in the circus just as you would in any other job application; you'll need to include your résumé, videos of your tricks, and to audition for the role if you are asked to do so. Auditioning for a circus, such as Cirque du Soleil or Barnum and Bailey's, is considered the big leagues of clowndom. Don't get discouraged if it doesn't work out right away. If you're curious about what you need to apply to be a circus clown, check out some applications online. If you're in the UK, then Chipperfields Circus will be the most elite place to try; in Germany, you can try Continental Circus Berlin.	Get your props. Get a clown costume. Put your makeup on. Decide whether you want a sidekick. Plan your show. Add magic to your repertoire (optional). Work on your Slapstick skills. Avoid clown clichés. Rehearse your act. Decide what kind of clown you want to be. Go to clown school. Go to clown conferences and camps. Learn the tricks of the trade from other clowns. Advertise like a professional. Start small. Consider joining a clown group or a union. Continue to improve your skills. Continue to improve your engagement with the audience. Consider auditioning for a circus.
https://www.wikihow.com/Look-After-Pets-During-Fireworks	How to Look After Pets During Fireworks	Fireworks can be really frightening for many pets, and it's important to look after them during a fireworks show. If possible, bring your pets inside when a fireworks display is scheduled for your area. Turn on the lights so the animals won't be able to see the fireworks flashing, and if your pet is in a cage or a crate, cover it with a thick blanket to dampen the noise. Be sure to leave food and water for your pet, and try to fill the house with familiar sounds like the TV or the washing machine. With luck, your pets won't even know that fireworks occurred!	Know when and where fireworks will be happening. The loud noise of fireworks, the flashing lights, and the smell of sulfur are what scare pets most. Contact your local municipality to find out when your area is likely to have fireworks. Check that your pets' ID tags and microchips are up to date. Mark the calendar when renewal payments are due and be sure to make payments on time. If your pet runs away during firework events, it's much easier to be identified as its owner through a microchip. Mark the dates on a calendar so that you can keep track of when to ensure your pets are cared for. Expose your pet to loud noises and firework sounds gradually. Desensitization of loud noises can help to prevent your pet from getting scared during the fireworks. Start by playing soft music or fireworks sounds for your pet a few weeks before the fireworks. Then, gradually increase the sound of the music or fireworks each day until you are playing it at a loud volume. Offer petting, praise, and treats to your pet for keeping calm. Playing loud noises after the fireworks can help to desensitize it further, by showing it that what it just experienced is not scary. Turn the lights on and try to insulate the house as best you can. Keeping the lights on will calm your pet and make it feel more secure. Close the curtains in the room and, if your animal is in a cage, cover up the cage with a thick blanket, which will hide it from flashing lights and dampen loud noises. In a stable, keep the lights on and keep the doors locked, although sedatives are the best method to calm your outdoor farm animals. Use familiar sounds to drown out the noise of the fireworks. Classical music, the sound of rain, or the sound of the TV, are some common noises that can soothe your pet. Provide a hiding place for your pets. This will allow your pets somewhere safe that they can retreat to during the fireworks to feel safe. Try placing a heavy blanket over a crate or pet carrier, or lay a box on its side and place a folded up blanket or towel inside of it. Find a central room away from windows to contain your pets. A room that has no windows located in the middle of your home is ideal, as it naturally dampens outside noises. It should be a room you can close off to stop your pet from running about the house and creating a mess. Make sure your outdoor animals are locked in their pen and consider moving them to a more central pen in your barn or stable to keep them away from doors and windows. If you have more than one pet, be sure they don't mind being confined in the same room, or select several rooms for different pets. For example, dogs and cats will usually appreciate being separated. If you must separate animals, make a second room as insulated as you can and keep the most anxious animal in the central room, and stay with and comfort the animal in the second room. Try using pheromones to reassure and comfort your pets. You can purchase calming pheromone products for cats and dogs. Using pheromones during a stressful event, such as fireworks, may help to keep your pet calm. However, you'll need to start using it a couple of weeks in advance. Look for a dog appeasing pheromone product if you have a dog, or a cat-specific pheromone if you have a cat, such as Feliway. These products are available as plug-in diffusers that you can purchase in pet stores and online. Consider veterinary sedation for large animals or easily scared animals. Consult your vet a few weeks ahead of time to see if your dog may need a sedative during the fireworks, as some dogs are particularly noise-sensitive or anxiety-prone. Horses and farm animals that are kept outside particularly may need this to make it through without getting scared. You can also ask your dog's veterinarian about Sileo, which is an anti-anxiety drug for dogs. You administer this medication between your dog's gums and cheek using a needleless syringe. Make the rooms your pets will be confined in feel familiar. Put down familiar, clean bedding and something that smells of you, such as a t-shirt you've worn. Give them their favorite chew toys, scratch pads, balls, or other toys to keep your pets distracted. Ensure that the room temperature is comfortable: make it warm in cold weather, or cool in hot weather. Provide food and water for your pet. Be sure to leave sufficient water and food for your pet in the confinement space. If your pet has access to water and its regular food, it will be calmer. Consider buying a special treat, such as wet food or small sausages, to make it feel more comfortable during the fireworks. Chewing can help to relieve stress for dogs that like to chew. Make sure that your dog has an appropriate chew toy or bone if it likes to chew to calm itself. Move your pet to the prepared room. If you're worried about not being able to find your pet, consider looking for it a few hours before the fireworks are set to start. Mealtime is a good time to round up your pets. If your dog needs a walk, be sure to walk it before confining it in the room. Even if your pet is caged, you should still keep it in the secure and comfortable room you've selected. If your pet is a horse or other farm animal, make sure it has clean bedding and is safely inside the stable or barn. Prepare yourself mentally and try to relax. It's possible to transfer some of your anxiety and worry to your pet, so it's important to remain calm so you don't inadvertently stress your pet out. If you've prepared properly in advance, there is no need to feel worried as you have done all you can to make the experience as easy as possible for it. Stay with your pet, or at least check on it regularly. Comfort it and talk to it. Be friendly and stay happy and upbeat, as pets can read emotions better than you think. If it's not possible to stay with it—you may be at the fireworks display yourself—just make sure you do everything you can for its comfort while you are gone. Act how you normally would when you visit your pet. Treating it any differently than you normally do may make it feel more anxious. Allow your pet to hide somewhere in the room. It's common for pets to cope with these experiences by using a "bolthole," and dragging it out of its safe space can make him much more anxious. Consider using lavender plants or spray for a calming scent. Gently bruise the flowers of fresh lavender, and make sure that it's out of reach of your pet, especially if you have a cat. You should use a pheromone spray designed for cats and small rodents, as these animals can be harmed by the strong fumes. Reassure your pet and make the home normal again. Be sure that the fireworks are over before you remove sound and light dampening blankets and curtains. Let your pet have a free run of the house to see how it behaves before letting it go back outside. Put your animal's cage back in its normal place and stay with them for a few hours to see how they are coping. Sometimes it is best to wait until the following morning to let your pet back outdoors. Do a yard sweep before letting your pets back outside. Collect any sparklers, firecrackers, and other party items and broken objects. Even if you did not host a party at your house, it is still a good idea to check for litter that may have entered your yard from nearby celebrations. Check for signs of stress in your pet. Some pets will return to normal as soon as the loud noises and flashing lights stop, but some may need special attention to feel safe again. Watch for irregular behaviour from your pet, which could be a sign that it's having a hard time re-adjusting. In cats, signs of stress include running away, soiling the house, hiding, and refusing to eat. In dogs, signs of stress include anxious barking, running away, soiling the house, cowering, clinging to their owner, whimpering, trembling, pacing, and refusing to eat. In small rodents, signs of stress include hiding, staying silent, excessive tooth grinding, and acting more aggressively than usual. In horses and stable animals, signs of stress include soiling themselves, refusing to eat, sweating, and tooth grinding. Make your pet feel at home again and give it lots of attention. After taking down blankets, moving its cage back, and making the home feel as it did before the fireworks, you can make your pet feel much more comfortable and relaxed even if it was scared during the fireworks. If it seems stressed, be sure to give it lots of attention and reassure it through gentle grooming and talking in a soft voice.	Know when and where fireworks will be happening. Expose your pet to loud noises and firework sounds gradually. Turn the lights on and try to insulate the house as best you can. Provide a hiding place for your pets. Find a central room away from windows to contain your pets. Try using pheromones to reassure and comfort your pets. Consider veterinary sedation for large animals or easily scared animals. Make the rooms your pets will be confined in feel familiar. Provide food and water for your pet. Move your pet to the prepared room. Prepare yourself mentally and try to relax. Stay with your pet, or at least check on it regularly. Consider using lavender plants or spray for a calming scent. Reassure your pet and make the home normal again. Do a yard sweep before letting your pets back outside. Check for signs of stress in your pet. Make your pet feel at home again and give it lots of attention.
https://www.wikihow.com/Buy-a-Stroller	How to Buy a Stroller	Before you buy your stroller, research your options online by viewing product videos on stroller company websites and checking parenting websites for tips from other parents. Set a budget and make a list of features you want in a stroller, such as a adjustable wheels or backrests, handbrakes, or a five-point harness. When you find a stroller you like, test it thoroughly in the store by opening and closing it, testing its weight, and ensuring that the brakes are easy to use.	Conduct research. Search the websites of different stroller companies for testing videos to see how different stroller designs perform in a variety of environments, from navigating neighborhoods to boarding airplanes. While you are online conducting research, consider checking parenting chat rooms for tips and stories from parents around the world. If your child goes to daycare or preschool, ask the center if they have space to accommodate strollers. Some schools only have room for a certain type, such as an umbrella stroller. Consider a travel system stroller if you are constantly on-the-go. Travel system strollers can also break down into car seats. This style of stroller is a particularly useful investment, as it can be used from infancy into toddlerhood. Choose a jogging stroller if you live an active lifestyle and exercise frequently. These three-wheeled strollers have a fixed front wheel and a hand-brake, in addition to the traditional parking break. This type of stroller is heavy, so practice unfolding, folding, and moving it to ensure it's a good fit for you. Avoid joggers if you don't exercise. Their fixed front wheel can make them a challenge to maneuver on varied terrain. Avoid jogging strollers if you have a child under 1 year old. Go for versatility in an all-terrain stroller. These strollers are equipped with large wheels that are compatible with a wide variety of surfaces, from store floors to grass. They often have 3 wheels, with a front wheel that can swivel, or lock in place. Keep in mind that all-terrain strollers are heavy (often weighing up to 30 pounds) and bulky when folded up. Note that all-terrain strollers are typically not suitable for infants under 6 months, unless stated otherwise. Consider an umbrella stroller if you are striving for portability. Umbrella strollers tend to be inexpensive and lightweight, and they fold up to about the size of an umbrella. However, they are not typically durable or suitable for newborns. Look for a double or triple stroller if you have more than 1 child. These come in 2 styles: side-by-side or inline. They are a must-have if you have more than 1 child. Side-by-side strollers tend to be wide and bulky when folded. Inline models are better for children with an age gap, as one seat tends to have more recline and leg rest adjustment range that is necessary for young infants. Get a convertible stroller if you prefer versatility and have more than 1 child. Convertible strollers can seat 1-2 children, as it comes with an easy-to-add second seat. These are great if you alternate between traveling with 1 or 2 children, or if your elder child has nearly graduated from their time in a stroller. Convertible strollers tend to be built to handle up to 100 pounds (45 kg), and are applauded for their longevity. On the downside, the heavy-duty material of convertible strollers can be frustrating when the stroller is seating only one child, as it will be heavier than traditional single strollers. Select adjustable and all-terrain wheel options if needed. Being able to adjust and swivel the wheels can be a back saver; look for a stroller that has wheels which can be adjusted for more difficult terrain or for tight spaces. Swivel front wheels can make it easier to move around and the ability to lock the wheels straight ahead is useful for rough terrain or for high speeds (such as jogging). Look for padding and comfort. You will be able to tell the difference between a well-padded seat area and a flimsy one. Soft, cushy seats can encourage a restless toddler to stay seated during a longer shopping trip. Many times, seat liners can be purchased separately. Look for adjustable backrest options. An adjustable backrest that allows the stroller to fully recline is necessary for young infants who have not yet learned to sit up. Plus, the ability to fully recline is great for when your child falls asleep. Get a canopy. A stroller should have decent shelter options to protect your baby from the sun and inclement weather. Some strollers have a wide brim, some have bug netting, and others even have a plastic waterproof feature that can be rolled down during rain. For visibility, choose a canopy with a clear window. Avoid lightweight fabric covers. Fully covering your stroller may unintentionally lead to a greenhouse effect, so instead go for options like umbrellas that create shade but do not restrict air circulation. Consider if you need handbrakes. Most strollers come with the traditional foot-activated brakes, but many strollers also come with a second set of brakes on the handlebars. These are particularly useful if you intend to be traveling at high speeds, such as when you are jogging. Look for a 5-point harness. Five-point harnesses attach to the seat at five different points—at each shoulder, at each hip, and between the legs where the harness buckles. These are safer than the alternative 3-point harnesses, which lack the additional attachment at the hips. If your child is in a rear-facing seat, the shoulder straps should be at or below the shoulder. In a front-facing seat, straps should be at or above the shoulder. Consider what features will best benefit you as a parent. Strollers can include features such as drink holders, consoles that can hold your keys or diaper bags, and even speakers that connect to your smartphone to play music for you child. Strollers with larger wheels (e.g., joggers) will need their tires pumped up from time to time; look for a mini tire pump that is portable so that you don't put off pumping the tires up. Note how large the basket or storage space is on the stroller and determine if it will work well for you. Purchase accessories separately as needed. For truly unique additions, consider checking Etsy or local craft shows. Take measurements. Be sure that accessories will fit your model before you purchase that large canopy or snap-on cup holder. Have a budget. Before you even leave your home, have an idea of what you would like to spend on a stroller. Strollers can range from $20 to $1000, so have an idea of what features you would like to have, how durable a stroller is expected to be, and what you are comfortable spending. Test a stroller in an open store with plentiful aisle space. Make sure it feels stable under your hands and maneuver through aisles and around corners. Add weight, such as a bag, to ensure that the performance will not significantly change as your child grows. Open and close the stroller. A good stroller should be able to be opened with one hand and a foot. This enables you to keep one hand free to hold the baby as needed. At the same time, check the latch on the stroller to make sure that it is sturdy - some strollers have collapsed when this latch comes undone. Look for a full-length bar and practice steering. Steering is much easier with a full-length bar across the top than with two handles. If a single bar stroller is not an option, look for a stroller with very strong handles that are comfortable to hold. In both cases, adjustable handles are a good option if you are taller or shorter than average. Test the brakes and swivel lock mechanism. To ensure that brakes are easy to use and make for a smoother, controlled, and safer ride, practice braking with the stroller up and down aisles. If the front wheel is maneuverable, test the locking mechanism to see if it dramatically impacts your ability to steer the stroller. Ensure that it can be carried by you and that it fits where you need it to. Nothing worse than a stroller that you cannot lift and fit into the back of the car! Ensure that you are comfortable with the stroller's weight and that it fits in your car or in your designated storage space. If you travel often, look for a stroller with carrying straps. Consider resale value. If you do not anticipate having more children, you may want to sell your baby products after your child has grown. In this case, you may choose to invest in higher-quality merchandise that will retain value. Check websites like Craigslist to see what used strollers are selling for.	Conduct research. Consider a travel system stroller if you are constantly on-the-go. Choose a jogging stroller if you live an active lifestyle and exercise frequently. Go for versatility in an all-terrain stroller. Consider an umbrella stroller if you are striving for portability. Look for a double or triple stroller if you have more than 1 child. Get a convertible stroller if you prefer versatility and have more than 1 child. Select adjustable and all-terrain wheel options if needed. Look for padding and comfort. Look for adjustable backrest options. Get a canopy. Consider if you need handbrakes. Look for a 5-point harness. Consider what features will best benefit you as a parent. Purchase accessories separately as needed. Have a budget. Test a stroller in an open store with plentiful aisle space. Open and close the stroller. Look for a full-length bar and practice steering. Test the brakes and swivel lock mechanism. Ensure that it can be carried by you and that it fits where you need it to. Consider resale value.
https://www.wikihow.com/Prove-a-No%E2%80%90Contact-Order-Has-Been-Broken	How to Prove a No‐Contact Order Has Been Broken	It can be stressful if someone breaks a no-contact order by talking to you, but with the right evidence, you can prove what they did in court. Gather any evidence you have of their contact, like voice mail recordings and screenshots of messages. If they talked to you in public, find witnesses who can support your claim. You'll also need to provide a copy of the no-contact order and a proof of service form to prove they were aware of the order. You can also file a police report, which may help you in court. If they contacted you online, bring your evidence and no-contact order to the police station. If they approached you in public or came to your house or workplace, call the police since that's an arrestable offense.	Save all text messages or voicemails. When you receive a message from the person against whom you have a no-contact order, your first impulse may be to delete it immediately. However, if you want to prove a no-contact order has been broken, you need to preserve it as evidence. Actual physical evidence of direct contact is essentially all you need to prove the person broke the no-contact order. The person would have little argument against it, aside from perhaps claiming that someone had stolen their phone and contacted you without their consent. A voicemail message in which the person's voice actually can be heard would be almost impossible to defend against, particularly if the content of that message makes it clear that the person intended to contact you. Messages or comments on social media also constitute a violation of a no-contact order in this sense. Technically you probably should block the person from your social media accounts, but if you haven't, save any messages they send or comments they make. Try to save the original form of the message to the extent possible – meaning you should retain it in your phone or on your social media account rather than deleting it. However, you also want to print it out or screen-cap it if possible so you have an additional record that can't be easily altered after the fact. Talk to witnesses. Anyone who was there when the other person broke the no-contact order can potentially testify on your behalf. Witnesses are particularly important if the contact occurred in person, rather than online or over the phone. Keep in mind that "no contact" truly does mean no contact whatsoever. According to the letter of the order, the person isn't even allowed to say "hi" to you if they happen to pass you on the street. However, if the person does violate the no-contact order face-to-face, proving that violation potentially could become a "he said, she said" situation if the other person denies the contact took place. Under those circumstances, having witnesses to the contact can help reinforce your story and prove that the no-contact order was broken. Witnesses are particularly important if the contact was indirect. No-contact orders typically prohibit both direct or indirect contact, meaning that the restrained person tried to communicate with you through another person. In this situation, getting testimony from the person used to transmit the message to you is crucial. They must be able to say that the restrained person gave them a message to give to you. Consult your attorney. Typically a no-contact order is entered in conjunction with another legal case, such as a divorce case or a domestic violence matter. If you hired an attorney to work with you on the main case, call them immediately. If you don't have an attorney, you may want to consider talking to one anyway. You typically can get legal assistance by visiting a nonprofit domestic violence organization. Additionally, most family law attorneys give a free initial consultation. The prosecuting attorney may end up filing criminal charges against the person who violated the no-contact order. However, they don't represent you – they represent the state. In fact, when it comes to no-contact orders, your wishes are irrelevant. The order may have been entered against your wishes, and will be enforced against your wishes. In other words, if you later decide you don't want to go forward with prosecution for violation of the no-contact order, too bad. The prosecutor can go ahead and file charges anyway. Collect all court documents related to the order. Generally, to prove a no-contact order has been broken you must show the existence of the no-contact order. You also must show that the other person had sufficient legal notice of the order against them. To prove these two elements, you'll need the court documents associated with your no-contact order, including the order itself and the proof of service form. Depending on the circumstances, you also may need to show a copy of the no-contact order to law enforcement when you report the violation. Avoid breaking the order yourself. It doesn't change the fact that the other person violated the order. However, no-contact orders often run both ways. If you have also broken the no-contact order, you may find yourself subject to the same penalties. Even if your no-contact order is not reciprocal, meaning it only binds one party, it's still best to avoid contacting the person yourself. While it isn't a defense to a violation of a no-contact order for the person to say that you contacted them first, it definitely won't help your case in court. Contact your local police department. As soon as possible after the other person breaks a no-contact order, you must call the local police. Someone who breaks a no-contact order is subject to arrest. However, avoid calling 911 unless there is a real emergency. If you run into the person, or they come to your house and are threatening you or making you fear for your personal safety or that of your loved ones, don't hesitate to call 911. Keep in mind that in most states, if the police witness a person violating a no-contact order, they must arrest the person immediately. However, if the contact in question is more passive, just a text or a message on social media, call the police non-emergency number or go down to the station in person. Speak to an officer. To initiate a police report regarding the other person's violation of the no-contact order, you must tell an officer what happened. The officer will listen to your account and write the information up into an official police report. Ideally, you want to talk to an officer in person to file your report. That way you can show them the no-contact order and any other court papers associated with the situation. Going down to the police station in person also is especially important if the person contacted you online, over the phone, or through the mail, rather than in person. This way you can bring the evidence you have that the person broke the no-contact order by contacting you. Get a copy of the police report. The written report may not be available immediately after you speak with the officer, but it should be ready within a day or so. Make sure you have a copy of the report for your records. If there are other people involved, you may want to make copies for them as well. For example, if you have children with the person, you may want to give copies to any of the children's caregivers, or to their school. You also want to make sure that people at places you frequent, such as your work or school, as well as any friends or family you visit frequently, have knowledge of the situation. Cooperate with law enforcement efforts. As the police investigate the incident, an officer may call to ask you more questions. Contact them yourself if you have anything to add to your report, including any additional contact from the person against whom you have a no-contact order. If you were unable to provide proof of the no-contact order, the police may ask you to bring it in later. The police also may contact you if they are having trouble locating the individual. They may want additional information regarding where the person lives or works, places they frequent, or the locations of friends or relatives. If the person attempts to contact you again, make sure you call the police to update your report. Reference the number on your police report so they can add the information to the right case. Meet with the prosecuting attorney. After the person is arrested, the case will move to the prosecutor's office, which will file charges against them for violation of the no-contact order. The prosecuting attorney responsible for the case typically will contact you. If the prosecuting attorney decides to file charges, they typically will want you to testify against the person in the court hearing. They will talk to you about the incident in the police report and ask if the person has made any further attempts to talk to you. If you have any physical evidence, the prosecuting attorney will want copies. They also may ask you about the events that led to the judge entering the no-contact order, and try to get a sense of any other legal matters you may have pending, such as a divorce, that also involve the same person. You also may have the option of filing a complaint against the restrained person yourself. However, typically it's best to wait and see what the prosecuting attorney does. Appear on the hearing date. After charges have been filed, the court will likely schedule a hearing. The prosecuting attorney will contact you to let you know the hearing date if you are expected to testify. Make every effort to attend the hearing. The prosecuting attorney may have the court issue you a subpoena, which means your presence is required. Dress in clean, conservative clothing, as though you were going to a job interview. You may want to talk to the prosecuting attorney before the hearing about the types of questions you'll be asked on the stand. Bring documents with you if you want to do so, but keep in mind that you won't be able to refer to them on the stand. Get sworn in on the witness stand. The prosecuting attorney will call your name as a witness, and you will move from your seat in the courtroom to the witness stand. Either the judge or a court official will swear you in. After you're sworn in, you must make every effort to answer the prosecuting attorney's questions as completely and honestly as you can. If you don't understand a question, ask the attorney for clarification before you answer. Trying to guess is a bad idea. This also means that if you don't know the answer to a question, you should simply say that you don't know or don't remember. Answer questions related to the no-contact order. Once you are on the stand, the prosecutor will ask you questions to establish the existence of a no-contact order and the court process through which it was issued. To help establish the context of the order, the prosecutor also may ask you questions about the underlying incident or other reason for which the no-contact order was entered. The prosecutor also may ask whether you know if the order was successfully served on the person. The level of proof required here varies among states. In some states, it isn't necessary to prove that the defendant was legally served with the order. The prosecutor only has to prove that the defendant knew about it. However, in practice, showing proof of service is the easiest way to establish that the defendant knew about the order. Identify the defendant. Even though it may seem obvious, you typically must identify the defendant as the person against whom you have a no-contact order. this establishes that you believe they are responsible for the violation. To identify the defendant, the prosecuting attorney will ask you if the person against whom the no-contact order was entered was in the room. They'll then ask you to point out that person. You also may be asked what relationship you have to that person, or additional questions regarding the legal context within which the no-contact order was entered. Describe the violation of the order. Through the answers to questions from the prosecuting attorney, you will tell the judge exactly how and when the person contacted you despite the no-contact order in place. The prosecuting attorney also may ask you to identify any physical evidence associated with the violation that is being introduced at the hearing, such as a print-out of text communications. You'll be asked questions to authenticate that evidence and establish that it came from your phone or your computer, and that you didn't doctor it or alter it in any way before you handed it over to law enforcement or the prosecuting attorney. Answer questions on cross-examination. If the defendant is present, especially if they are represented by an attorney, you may have to answer questions that test the truthfulness of your allegations or call into question your certainty. The types of questions you're asked may differ depending on the defenses the restrained person is claiming. If the restrained person is claiming that they did not willfully contact you, the defense attorney may ask you questions about the way in which you received the message and whether others were included. For example, if the restrained person sent a message to an email list on which you were included, but they weren't aware that you were included on the list and the message wasn't intended specifically for you, the judge may find they did not violate the no-contact order. Find out the judge's decision. After hearing all evidence related to the violation of the no-contact order, the judge enters a new order. The contents of this order and decision will vary depending on the context of the no-contact order itself. For example, if the no-contact order was entered as part of the restrained person's bond order after arrest on a domestic violence charge, that person may be sent back to jail. Violation of a no-contact order typically is considered a separate criminal charge. The judge may require the person who violated the order to pay a fine of several thousand dollars, or to spend a short time in jail. If the person has been convicted of multiple violations, or if the violation included an assault against you, the person may face no criminal felony charges. This would result in a more extended jail sentence and more significant fines.	Save all text messages or voicemails. Talk to witnesses. Consult your attorney. Collect all court documents related to the order. Avoid breaking the order yourself. Contact your local police department. Speak to an officer. Get a copy of the police report. Cooperate with law enforcement efforts. Meet with the prosecuting attorney. Appear on the hearing date. Get sworn in on the witness stand. Answer questions related to the no-contact order. Identify the defendant. Describe the violation of the order. Answer questions on cross-examination. Find out the judge's decision.
https://www.wikihow.life/Get-a-Girl-to-Notice-You	How to Get a Girl to Notice You	To get a girl to notice you, try to catch her eye, nod, or smile so she becomes familiar with you. After getting her attention a few times, try making small talk or asking her a bit about herself, like what her favorite sports or bands are, what she does for fun, or if she likes art. Once you've talked to her and she knows who you are, invite her and her friends out for a group activity, like a movie or a hike. As you begin to spend more time together, start making romantic gestures, like remembering her birthday or carrying her things, to clue her into the fact that you like her. When you feel confident enough, ask her out on a date.	Become familiar to her. Girls are more likely to talk to a guy if they are not complete strangers. Catch her eye in class and smile, nod at her in the school hallways, or make an effort to sit near her at lunch. Of course, don't follow her around (that might creep her out) but simply making sure she knows your face will make her more receptive to talking to you at some point. Little things like asking her the date or hanging out at the same after-school spot will make her begin to start noticing you. Talk to her. While this might seem obvious, lots of guys struggle with the idea of approaching the girl they like. However, you're just going to have to go for it. Walk up to her before class and strike up a conversation, talk to her in the lunch line, or say hey to her at a party. Make a passing joke about your teacher's silly tie in math class or ask her what she did this weekend while waiting in line for lunch. Be observant. What does she like to do? Are there any clues that can give you an idea of what she likes? Maybe she is constantly doodling in class, or carrying a soccer ball around. This little things you observe about her can help you to come up with ideas for what to talk to her about. Find out what she is interested in. To do this, you'll have to be bold. Once you've talked to her a bit, you should start asking her questions about herself. What does she like to do? What movies is she into? What's her favorite sport, art or food? The possibilities are endless, but the answers will help you to form a friendship. However, keep in mind that you shouldn't just pummel her with questions (that may be sort of weird) but ask a question and let the conversation develop naturally. Try to establish a friendship. Once you guys have talked and she knows who you are, consider asking her to hang out. Start by asking her to do something in a group and tell her to bring her friends along (this will make her more inclined to say yes). Ask her to come to the movies with your friends, play a pickup soccer game, go on a hike, go to a concert, etc. When you guys hang out, be attentive to her but not clingy--just act like you would with anyone else in your friend group. Give her sincere compliments. Everyone likes to complimented now and then--make her day and give her a compliment that you really mean. Its important to say something that you really believe--fake compliments can sound stiff and are easily spotted. If you like her dress, tell her her dress is really cute. If she just played a song for you on the guitar and it was great--tell her that! Be nice to her friends. No matter what, you should always treat girls with respect--regardless of whether or not they are the one you are interested in. It helps to be extra nice to her friends. If they see you as the caring, sweet, funny guy you are, chances are they will tell the girl you like. However, don't hang out with her friends (or just one of her friends) all the time--it might give her the idea that you are romantically interested in one of her friends. Act relaxed and confident when you are around her. Even if your heart lurches weirdly into your mouth, or you start sweating, act as relaxed as you can when hanging out with her, particularly if you don't want to make a romantic move just yet (or clue her in to the fact that you want something more than friendship). Girls like a confident guy, not someone who becomes a hot mess whenever they approach him. Part of acting relaxed is reminding yourself that you're a really cool and nice dude--any girl would be lucky to have such a great guy interested in her. Smile like you mean it. A sincere smile is a very attractive thing. If she makes a joke, allow yourself to laugh. When you look at her, or wave bye when walking to class, smile genuinely. Make eye contact. Look your girl in the eye when you guys are talking. Eye contact is a sign of confidence. If you look anywhere but at her face, she might think you are uninterested in her or that you have better things to do besides hang out with her. Make small romantic moves. Once you have established a friendship and you know that you want to make it something more, start making some romantic gestures that will clue her into the fact that you like her. Remember important dates like her birthday (and do something nice for her on that day), walk her to her next class (and then sprint to yours), or ask her to a dance. When you feel confident enough to do so, ask the girl you like out. Show her you have a sense of humor. Everyone loves to laugh. Humor is a great way to get (and keep) a girl's attention, so long as it is the right sort of humor. While this might not apply to some girls, most girls are generally a little turned off by crude or mean humor. Of course, being funny doesn't mean that you need to transform yourself into the next Chris Pratt, but throwing some humor into a conversation can definitely catch a girl's attention. If you're not a natural-born comedian, here are some tips on creating your style of humor: Don't wait for the girl to laugh. Quick, witty humor that seems unassuming is a good way to go--if she thinks you're funny, she'll laugh. However, never draw attention to the fact if she doesn't laugh--that will just make the situation awkward, and you a little desperate. (Example: Don't say something like “Oh so you didn't think that was funny?”) Find some inspiration in famous comedians. If you feel like you need a little help getting into the comedic mood, watch comedians on TV or pay attention to the funny characters in movies. Watch how they deliver their jokes, but don't memorize their jokes and simply repeat them (that could come across as rather stiff). Use situational humors. While dishing out witty one-liners can make a girl laugh, try commenting on your situation or environment in a funny way. Don't pick on the girl you're interested in. While teasing may be funny at first, don't rely on it as your only source of humor because that can definitely get old. If you find that teasing is something you're pretty good at--tease yourself. Self-deprecating humor can be funny and will show the girl that you are confident enough in yourself that you can make fun of your own flaws. Be confident in yourself. Confidence is a very attractive quality. Feel good about yourself because you are an awesome dude--your inner confidence will shine through and your girl will notice. Walk with your head held high, volunteer interesting information, and don't hesitate when walking up to the girl you like--just do it. Having confidence also means laughing at yourself and not getting in a huff when the girl you like has other plans or talks to another guy. Being confident does not mean that you should act cocky. There is a fine line between being confident and being a self-involved jerk. When you are confident, you have faith in your abilities without holding that over others. When you're cocky, you brag about how awesome you are. Avoid the latter. Girls are attractive to guys who are confident without telling everyone around them how great they are, constantly. Be attentive. When you are talking to the girl you like, give her your undivided attention. Listen carefully to what she has to say--you may learn something you didn't know about her, or find that you both have mutual interests, dreams, or ideas. Ask her about herself. Not only will this show that you care, it will also give you information you can use to woo her later. Any questions that are sincere and respectfully asked are fair game--find out what movies she likes, what her dreams are, what her favorite meal is, etc. Give her time to answer. Don't interrupt her a lot when she's speaking--you asked the question so you should give her time to speak her mind. Plus, the fact that she wants to talk to you is a really good thing--don't cut it short. . Display good manners When you're getting to know a girl, it is important to be polite. After all, a lot of girls feel like chivalry is dead. Show her that this is not the case. Open doors for her, offer to help her carry her stuff, etc. Avoid offensive behavior. Sexist, racist, or derogatory jokes are definitely off the table--but you shouldn't be saying that kind of stuff, anyway. While basic good manners are always important, you'll need to figure out where to draw the line on more chivalrous actions. For example, many women appreciate it when a man opens the door for her, but some may find it distasteful. Others may appreciate it when a man opens the door for her, but would be uncomfortable if he pulled out her chair when sitting down to lunch or coffee. Start by being as chivalrous as you can naturally be, but be willing to scale back if the girl you're with expresses dissatisfaction at a certain action. Show passion for the things you are interested in. If you are really interested in something, show it. When you throw yourself into something you are really passionate about, it is pretty obvious (and attractive)--it shows that you care about something outside of yourself, and that you are dedicated. Try to be the best you can be--you're sure to catch you girl's attention. Don't be embarrassed about what you are passionate about. If you are enthusiastic, confident, and happy, people will become interested in what you are into (or at least respect your interests). If you are crazy about hiking, pick a hike that is gorgeous (and relatively easy) to take your non-hiking friends (and the girl you like) on--they'll be sure to have fun. Let her know that you have emotional depth. This doesn't mean that you need to sob like a baby when a sad topic gets mentioned, but you should allow some of your feelings to show. This means that you might need to say something like “When I watched The Notebook, I kept thinking about how hard it must be to have a loved one with Alzheimer's. It made me feel so sad for people experiencing that disease”. Saying things like this (and meaning them) will show the girl you like that you have a deeper side. Groom yourself. If you do nothing else, remember this--you should shower regularly and brush your teeth. No girl is going to want to cozy up to a guy who has stuff in his teeth and smells like B.O. Bust out that great-smelling body wash (and deodorant) and start thinking of your toothbrush as your best friend. Of course, there are plenty of other things you can do to get her attention with your well-groomed looks. Going beyond the basics: Find a cologne that will make girls swoon, wash your face so that your skin is blemish free, add a little bit of styling gel to your hair to get that 'I just got out of bed but I'm so manly that I just look this good all the time' look--the possibilities are endless. If its going to make you smell good, look good, and feel good, it's probably something you should try. Considering body hair: Clip that nose hair and pluck that unibrow! If you're rocking some facial hair, props to you. Just make sure to keep it in check--its generally better to have no beard than a flowing, 'I've just been asleep for 100 years' Rip Van Winkle look. Clipping your nails: Do it. You don't want to be thinking about holding her hand, only to cut her with your talons when you make a move. While you're at it, scrape that dirt out from under there. Put a little effort into how you dress. This doesn't mean going out and buying a whole new wardrobe, but you should definitely give your wardrobe some consideration. Ditch any articles of clothing that are stained or torn. Everyone has their own style--but 'slob' style is definitely the least attractive. Don't wear the same shirt every day of the week, and try to put a bit more effort into your outfit instead of just throwing on a sweatshirt and sweatpants. Play up your style. Whether you are a hipster, jock, or have some style all your own, put a little effort into what you wear in the morning. Consider your body language. Believe it or not, your posture actually plays a big part in how girls perceive you. If you have a tendency to hunch, avoid eye contact and play with your hands, a girl is going to be less inclined to come over and strike up a conversation. Stand up straight, keep your eyes up, and get a smile going--you will look much more approachable. Keep in mind that while you really should have good posture, you should also carry yourself with ease. Standing up straight does not mean walking around like a robot or holding yourself so rigidly that you look like Frankenstein. If you don't know how to carry yourself with ease, draw inspiration from movies or TV. Watch how the lead guy holds himself (and eventually charms his way into the lead girl's heart). Stay in shape. While this does not mean that you have to lift for your life, you should keep in mind that if you want to get that drop dead gorgeous girl to notice you, you're going to have to keep your physique in mind. She puts effort into her looks, so you should too. Start an exercise routine that combines both cardio and weight-training for an all around toned look. Keep in mind that most girls like a guy who looks fit, but not one that has muscles that are about to rip through his t-shirt every time he raises his arm in class. If your goal is to look like Arnold Schwarzenegger when he was Mr. Universe, you may want to tone it back a bit.	Find out what she is interested in. Be nice to her friends. Make small romantic moves. Be confident in yourself. Be attentive. . Show passion for the things you are interested in. Let her know that you have emotional depth. Groom yourself. Put a little effort into how you dress. Consider your body language.
https://www.wikihow.com/Avoid-Mosquito-Bites	How to Avoid Mosquito Bites	To avoid mosquito bites, wear a chemical insect repellent spray with 30-50% DEET, and reapply the spray every 4-5 hours. For a more natural alternative, try rubbing citronella or tea tree oil on your skin to see if that works for you. When you're going to be outdoors, wear loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts and pants. Try to avoid areas with standing water where mosquitoes tend to breed and lay eggs. If you're planning a trip to an area where mosquitoes are known to be prevalent, like Sub-Saharan Africa and Asia, try to go during a cooler month to avoid bites.	Wear mosquito repellent. A variety of specially-formulated insect repellents are available for sale at camping or sporting goods stores. Apply insect repellent to uncovered skin surfaces when outdoors, especially during the day. When using sunscreen, apply it before insect repellent. Here are a few common chemical solutions effective at repelling mosquitoes: Repellents containing 30% to 50% DEET (N,N-diethyl-m-toluamide) are recommended for adults and children over 2 months of age and effective for several hours. Repellents with lower amounts of DEET offer shorter-term protection and must be applied more often. DEET can irritate skin when applied directly in high concentration or for long periods of time. It can even cause severe skin reactions in certain individuals. Despite rumors to the contrary, DEET has never been scientifically proven to cause cancer. Repellents containing up to 15% picaridin, which must be applied often, are available in the US. Repellents with higher concentrations of picaridin may be available in some regions outside the US. Consider an all-natural solution. Experiment with non chemical solutions such as Citronella (natural plant oil). Tea tree oil and vitamin B have reportedly helped some people repel mosquitoes. As with any product, their effectiveness depends on the situation, your own skin chemistry, and the exact type of mosquito you are dealing with. Note, however, that so-called "alternative" solutions sometimes aren't held to the testing standards that mainstream commercial repellents are - research alternative solutions and read testimonials before spending any money. Wear loose, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. One of the best ways to keep mosquitoes from biting you is to simply cover your skin. Wear your sleeves and pant legs as long as possible to cover as much skin as possible. Also keep your clothing as loose as possible. This serves two purposes: first, it's much more comfortable in the hot, humid weather where mosquitoes thrive. Second, mosquitoes can sometimes bite through clothing that's held tight against the skin, especially if the fabric is thin. If you have the money, camping and sporting goods stores often sell specially-designed pants and shirts made out of strong yet lightweight material. These clothes offer maximal protection from mosquito bites along with a relatively high level of comfort. Clothing may also be sprayed with repellent containing permethrin or another EPA-registered repellent for greater protection. (Remember: don't use permethrin on skin.) Don't waste money on an electric hanging bug "zapper. " These have been shown to kill many bugs very effectively but generally the bugs killed are the non-harmful ones. Plus, the noise they generate tends to be obnoxious. Mosquitoes can be more effectively killed by one of the dedicated machines that use heat and carbon dioxide to attract the mosquitoes and then entrap or kill them using nets, containers or chemicals. Sleep with a mosquito net over your bed. The mosquito netting has fine holes big enough to allow breezes to easily pass through but small enough to keep mosquitoes and other biting insects out. Hang the netting over your bed, securing the top of the net to one or more surfaces. Support the net so that it's tented without hanging down onto you. Make sure to sleep without touching the sides - mosquitoes can actually bite you through the netting if it's tight against your skin. Check for holes regularly - patch them with duct tape for a quick fix.. Protect infants less than 2 months of age by using a carrier draped with mosquito netting with an elastic edge for a tight fit. Avoid parts of the world where mosquitoes are common. Unfortunately, mosquitoes live on every continent except Antarctica. However, they're generally more common in warmer, wetter areas, which tend to be close to the equator. If you really want to avoid mosquito bites, stay out of tropical climates entirely. Mosquitoes are especially common in jungles and swamps in Central and South America, South and Southeast Asia, Sub Saharan Africa, and Oceania. If you're unsure about whether it's safe to travel to a certain part of the world, visit the Center for Disease Control (CDC) Malaria Travel Information website. This site gives a country-by-country breakdown of malaria prevalence, as well as any noted malarial drug resistances. Avoid standing water. Mosquitoes are often attracted to water, especially standing water, so lakes, stagnant creeks, bogs, marshes, and swamps are mosquito havens, especially during hot months. Most species of mosquitoes lay their eggs in stagnant water and some have even adapted to lay their eggs in salt water. Stay away from any bodies of stagnant water, whether they're small puddles or vast swamps, to reduce your risk of encountering mosquitoes. Many species of mosquito stay fairly close to where they hatch and breed. If you can give these wet, standing areas a wide berth, you'll avoid these species entirely. Don't let water stand near your home or campsite. It's easy to unintentionally create habitats for mosquitoes to live and breed in. For instance, a kiddy pool left out in the summer sun for several days can soon become a hotbed for mosquitoes. Get rid of any standing water around your home or campsite. If you have a pool, cover it when it's not in use and treat the water with chemical additives like chlorine according to the manufacturer's instructions. Here are just a few places water can accumulate: Discarded tires or industrial containers Construction ditches or trenches Pools Natural low points on a piece of property Clogged storm drains Avoid certain "mosquito" seasons. In the tropics, differences between seasons are minimal, so mosquitoes are able to thrive in warm weather year-round. In temperate areas, however, mosquitoes are only active during warmer months. In colder periods, mosquitoes hibernate and new adults do not mature past the larval stage. For example, parts of the American Midwest have cold, snowy winters which eliminate mosquitoes entirely, but also have hot, humid summers, which cause mosquito populations to swell. "Mosquito season" varies depending on the locale - generally, it's the hottest and/or most-humid part of the year. Another seasonal factor which can influence mosquito populations is flooding. Some parts of the world, like Egypt's Nile River, experience periodic flooding. Standing water from the flooding can cause a dramatic boom in mosquito populations. Avoid getting too hot. This advice is especially important if you're in a hot, humid climate. Mosquitoes are thought to be attracted to warm bodies, so staying cool is one way to avoid bites. Dark-colored fabrics absorb more heat from the sun than light-colored alternatives, so avoid them. Also avoid excessive exercise when possible. Not only will exercise cause you to radiate heat, it will also cause you to breathe heavily. Carbon dioxide, one of the gasses you exhale, can be smelled by mosquitoes even at relatively long distances. Grab the mosquito out of the air. Unless you practice this a great deal, you will find it hard to accomplish and the air of your moving hand gives the mosquito plenty of warning, and can even blow it out of your grasp. Use a mosquito swatter. The swatter, usually made of a thicker metal or plastic, is mounted on the end of a springy wire, dramatically increasing your chances of hitting a stationary mosquito by increasing the momentum of the swat. You can also use your hand in a similar flipping motion. Use a double-handed clap. Using two hands is more effective than one, as the air coming from each hand will blow the mosquito into the opposing palm. Don't try to trap the mosquito while it bites you. There's an urban legend that says you flex your muscle or stretch your skin tight as a mosquito bites you, its proboscis will get stuck in your skin and it will drink your blood until it explodes. There isn't any scientific research to support this claim. Even if you can get this method to work, you'll still be left with an especially big bite and you'll still be putting yourself at risk for malaria, West Nile virus, etc. If you're trying to avoid mosquito bites, why kill the mosquito by letting it bite you? Trap the mosquito in a cup. If the above steps aren't working or the thought of killing a mosquito makes you feel guilty, you can try catching a mosquito alive, then releasing it outside of your home or camp. Slowly place a cup (preferably made of a hard material) over the mosquito and then slide some paper underneath this cup. This gives you control over the mosquito and can provide you with a more pacifistic approach, instead of just killing the mosquito. Carefully hold the paper over the cup's bottom as you relocate the mosquito to a more appropriate habitat.	Wear mosquito repellent. Consider an all-natural solution. Wear loose, long-sleeved shirts and long pants when outdoors. Don't waste money on an electric hanging bug "zapper. Sleep with a mosquito net over your bed. Avoid parts of the world where mosquitoes are common. Avoid standing water. Don't let water stand near your home or campsite. Avoid certain "mosquito" seasons. Avoid getting too hot. Grab the mosquito out of the air. Use a mosquito swatter. Use a double-handed clap. Don't try to trap the mosquito while it bites you. Trap the mosquito in a cup.
https://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-Feline-Upper-Respiratory-Illness	How to Prevent Feline Upper Respiratory Illness	To prevent upper respiratory illness in your cat, which is any infection in its nose, mouth, or throat, make sure to keep up with its flu vaccines to reduce the chances of it catching a virus. You should also wash its dishes and bedding regularly to get rid of any germs. When your cat's sick, try to do this every day using diluted bleach, as its immune system will be weakened. If you have another cat in your household that is unvaccinated, isolate the sick cat from the others for at least 3 weeks to avoid it spreading its illness.	Get your cat vaccinated. Vaccination against cat flu is considered an essential vaccine. The flu vaccine needs to be given regularly and it comes in a variety of types (modified live, modified live intranasal, killed vaccine) which determines how often the vaccine needs to be given. A typical vaccine regime is an initial loading dose of two injections given 3 - 4 weeks apart followed by a booster one year later, then further booster injections every three years. This is just a guide and varies depending on which vaccine is used. There is also a vaccine against feline chlamydia but this is considered optional. The evolving nature of viral infections means that because new strains develop, vaccination may not be 100% effective. Even vaccinated cats may develop signs of upper respiratory tract infection, either because their infection is caused by a bug not included in the vaccine, or because of partial immunity due to viral adaptation. Breeding cats should be vaccinated prior to breeding. Any breeding toms that are brought into the breeding establishment should be vaccinated and preferably watched for 24 hours before mixing with the female, to ensure he isn't showing any signs of sneezing or infection. Isolate sick cats to prevent further infection. If you have a multi-cat household of unvaccinated animals, and one starts to show signs, immediately isolate that cat. Get the other cats vaccinated right away. Do not allow the cats to mingle for at least 3 weeks, by which time they should have some protection from the vaccine. Infection is spread when virus particles are sneezed out or are present in discharges from the nose or mouth. This contaminates the environment ready to infect the next cat that comes into contact with that water bowl or the surface that has been sneezed on. Cats most at risk are those kept in large groups (such as breeding catteries), those in a shared air space (such as a shelter or boarding cattery), those with weak immune systems (such as kittens, the elderly, or those cats with another health problem), or cats kept in dirty conditions where the illness can flourish. Keep your cat's areas clean. Wash your cat's dishes and bedding regularly. This is especially important in multi-cat households and for indoor-outdoor cats. These cats come in contact with more illnesses and are at higher risk of infection. If you have a sick cat you should observe scrupulous hygiene. Keep the sick cat in a small room which you can clean easily. Wash all food and water bowls daily in dilute bleach. Wipe down the walls and washed surfaces with a dilute bleach or a cleaning product recommended by your vet. Be careful the surfaces are dry before a cat comes into contact with them, as bleach can be irritant to cats. Wash your hands before petting the other cats, and it's also a good precaution to change your clothing, as viruses can be transported on fabric. In shelters or boarding catteries it is crucial the staff observe good hygiene, disinfecting their hands between cats. Good cattery design is essential and there should be solid partitions between cats to avoid them sneezing and spreading bugs into the neighboring cage. Look for the signs of an upper respiratory illness. Most commonly these are similar to the signs you could expect if you had a cold. They include sneezing, coughing, change of voice, a snotty nasal discharge, inflamed eyes, a discharge from the eyes (ranging from watering to a yellow-green purulent discharge), loss of appetite, and perhaps even fever. In addition, with cat flu the patient may develop painful ulcers on the tongue, which prevent the cat from eating and may cause it to drool. The incubation period depends on the specific bugs involved, but varies from one day to 17 days, from contacting a source of infection to developing physical signs. Take your cat to its veterinarian. Your veterinarian will look for the symptoms of a respiratory illness, including sneezing, red eyes, runny nose, and coughing. Your veterinarian may assess the symptoms simply by sight, or they may use a medical instrument, such as a stethoscope, to get a more in-depth sense of the illness. When you call your veterinarian to make an appointment, tell them what you suspect an upper respiratory infection. They may have instructions for you to follow on arrival, in order to avoid infecting other cats waiting for treatment. Follow your veterinarian's suggestions for treatment. Treating a upper respiratory illness usually consists of treating the symptoms. However, if the cat has a secondary infection, your veterinarian may prescribe antibiotics for the infection. Your veterinarian may suggest the use of a nasal decongestant to relieve congestion. Try to make your cat as comfortable as possible while it is recovering. For example, if it has a lot of nasal or ocular discharge try wiping that away on a regular basis.	Get your cat vaccinated. Isolate sick cats to prevent further infection. Keep your cat's areas clean. Look for the signs of an upper respiratory illness. Take your cat to its veterinarian. Follow your veterinarian's suggestions for treatment.
https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Long,-Strong-Nails	How to Grow Long, Strong Nails	To grow long, strong nails, try eating foods that have lots of folic acid, like fish, red meat, and cheese, since folic acid is the best vitamin for nail growth. Additionally, make sure to include biotin-rich foods in your diet, like whole grains, bananas, and avocados, because biotin also promotes strong, healthy nails. Then, clean and file your nails in a basic, round shape, and apply a strengthening cream or polish. You should also avoid using your nails to open, peel, or scrape things, which can easily damage or break your nails.	Stop biting your nails. Biting your nails is detrimental to your health. Although a regular nervous habit for many, it can cause bacterial skin infections on your hands and in your mouth. If you have dry or loose skin around your nail beds, make sure to clip them away rather than biting them off. Try keeping your nails neatly polished or add nail art, so you'll be less apt to biting. Chew gum when you're bored. If you don't have access to gum, play with a small ball, coin, etc. Don't bite the skin around your nails. You may convince yourself that by only biting the skin around your nails, you're not actually harming the nail. This is false and will only cause your nails to weaken through the added moisture from saliva and make your nails prone to breaking. Choose one nail a week that you won't bite. Gradually add more “no-bite” nails to wean yourself off of the habit. Consider talking to a therapist about anxiety, or something else that may be causing you to bite your nails, if your nail biting is severe. Stop wearing acrylics and gels. Rushed removal of acrylic or gel nails leaves your nails dry, brittle, and unlikely to grow. Even proper removal can damage your nails because it occurs with soaked nail-beds. When your nail beds are wet, they are most sensitive. If you wish to get gel or acrylic manicures, try alternating. Get a traditional manicure between your gel or acrylic manicure. Stop picking at your chipped polish. Picking at your polish often removes the top layer of your nail bed. This forms a weak base for your nails. Stop skipping base coats and top coats. It is easy to skip base coats or top coats when you're in a hurry and want your polish to dry fast. However, when you skip these, you're damaging your nail. They protect your nails from staining; plus, they help the polish adhere to your nails, so that it chips less. If it chips less, you're less likely to pick at it and further damage your nails. Carry pre-moistened nail polish remover packets in your purse for quick removal when your nails start to chip. This way, you won't have to worry about picking at your nails. Stop using your nails as tools. Peeling labels, scrapping glue, or unfastening a key ring are all things that can easily damage or break your nails. You might not even realize you're doing it, but if you want to grow strong nails, you need to start to notice. Also try to keep your nails out of water for too long. This can soften the nail and make it weak and flexible. The best way to stop this is to slow down. Have scissors available, or another tool, to help you open, scrape, or peel anything you need during the day.Avoid doing activities that will cause your nail to bend. Keep clear nail polish on nails to avoid biting your nails. Get plenty of Vitamin H (biotin). Biotin promotes the growth and strength of nails, hair, and skin. Aim to consume between 30 and 40 micrograms per day either through food or supplements. Whole grains, mushrooms, bananas, salmon, and avocado are all great sources of biotin. Eat foods with folic acid. Folic acid, or Vitamin B9, helps prevent damage to your nerve cells and keeps red blood cells healthy. It is the best vitamin for nail growth, and it is impossible to intake to much because your body naturally excretes the excess. Fish, red meat, cheese, and fortified soy products are high in folic acid. Consume Vitamin A. Vitamin A is going to help the strengthening of your nails. The daily recommended dose is between 700 and 900 micrograms a day. Sweet potatoes, carrots, squash, and leafy greens are rich in Vitamin A. Get plenty of Vitamin C. Vitamin C is most commonly known for aiding in immune health. This means that it helps recovery inside the body. This recovery helps promote nail growth and gives them strength. Oranges, kale, strawberries, and bell peppers are high in Vitamin C. Shape and care for your base. In order to grow you nails long and strong, you need to start with a proper base. This means you need clean and healthy nails to begin with. File them into shape and keep your cuticles trimmed. File them properly. Start from the outside edge and file toward the center. Going back and forth in a repetitive motion will weaken your nails. Choose the right nail shape to promote growth. A basic round shape is easier to grow out. If you shape a square nail, you're more likely to use it as a tool. Care properly for your cuticles. Soak your nails in warm water for 5 minutes to loosen your cuticles.Do this up to 4 times a week. In order to get rid off the dead cuticle skin, put a cuticle remover on your nails and use a cuticle stick to push the dead skin back. Rinse off the remover and debris (Recommended to do once a month). For added cuticle health, put hyaluronic acid on and around your cuticles after pushing them back. Keep them moisturized. Applying moisturizer around your cuticles will prevent hangnails and broken nails. Apply strengthening treatments. Several strengthening treatments exist. Once you've shaped a proper base and correctly cared for your cuticles, apply the one that fits your budget and schedule. Serums are expensive but often produce the fastest and best results in strengthening nails. Creams are perfect for everyday use. You can buy intensive protein treatments in the form of a cream that you put on your nails in the morning and before falling asleep at night. Strengthening polish will help keep your nails from chipping. It is very affordable and easy to use. Use base or top coats, and nail hardeners to keep your nails protected. Keep in mind that with nail hardeners or anything similar, your nails have a better chance to snap or crack, which can be painful Jojoba oil is an oil that you can also use on your nails to make them more flexible, so rather than your nails snapping, they will bend	Stop biting your nails. Stop wearing acrylics and gels. Stop picking at your chipped polish. Stop skipping base coats and top coats. Stop using your nails as tools. Get plenty of Vitamin H (biotin). Eat foods with folic acid. Consume Vitamin A. Get plenty of Vitamin C. Shape and care for your base. Care properly for your cuticles. Apply strengthening treatments.
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-Your-Own-Nickname-to-Fit-Your-Name	How to Choose Your Own Nickname to Fit Your Name	If you're not a huge fan of your name or you want a shorter version, try choosing your own nickname. Consider basing it off your first name. For example, if your name's Alfred, you could have the nicknames Al, Alf, Fred, Red, or Alfie. You can also base it off your surname. For instance, if you have the surname McClane, you can go by Mac. If people know you for a certain hobby or talent you have, consider using this instead. For example, if you're the only left-footed soccer player on your team, you can ask people to call you Lefty. Alternatively, base it on where you grew up, like “Tex” if you're from Texas. If you have a few ideas you're considering, ask your friends and family what they think suits you best.	Look at your name. Think about shorter names that might be hidden inside it. For example, the name Steven contains the shorter name Steve. The name Alfred contains Al, Alf, Fred, and Red. Those names in turn might also have nicknames, such as Alfie (for Alf). Many people choose a nickname based on their own first name because it is easy for themselves and others to remember. Last names can also be a good source of nicknames. For example, people whose last names begin with Mc- or Mac-, as in John McClane, sometimes choose to go by the nickname Mac. A last name itself can also be a nickname. Consider letter combinations in your name that might not be regular names, but which are easy to say. Someone named Steven might think about going by Te or Ven. Nicknames based on your name can be spelled however you like. "Mack" works just as well as "Mac." The pronunciation is more important than the spelling. Look at your hobbies and talents. If you have a reputation for doing something well or standing out in some other way, it can lead to a nickname. Someone with a loud, booming yell might go as Boomer. A very smart person is sometimes called a "brain;" Brain can also be a great nickname. To ensure that the nickname you choose references your own name, look for nicknames that share a first letter with your name, or that rhyme with it. Check your family heritage. The places you grew up, as well as the places your ancestors lived, can sometimes provide great nicknames. People with ancestors in the Netherlands could choose the nickname Dutch; a person who grew up in Texas might go as Tex or Texie. A strong sense of connection to an ancestral culture can also provide nicknames that mean the same thing as your name means, but in another language or cultural tradition. Find your favorites. Write down all the names you came up with, and then say them aloud. Introduce yourself as each one and think about how they sound to you. If you are having trouble deciding which names sound better than the rest, take some time away from the process and return to it in a day or so. The goal is to find one name you prefer above all the others, plus a couple of alternatives. Test the waters. With your preferred nicknames in mind, speak to those around you and see what they think. It can be difficult to get a nickname to stick if others do not like it. Ask friends to call you by your preferred nickname. If they seem game, the nickname is likely to stick. If they are not on board with the idea, it may be time to try one of your alternates instead. Rock your new nickname. Now that you have found a nickname your friends are willing to call you, introduce yourself to others using it. Ask teachers and new employers to call you by it. Consider going by your nickname on social networking sites such as Facebook. Your new nickname will be cemented in no time.	Look at your name. Look at your hobbies and talents. Check your family heritage. Find your favorites. Test the waters. Rock your new nickname.
https://www.wikihow.health/Treat-Baby-Eczema	How to Treat Baby Eczema	If your baby has eczema, you can treat the condition by dressing your baby in loose clothes, keeping their skin moisturized, and applying an over-the-counter topical corticosteroid, like 1% hydrocortisone, to the rashy areas once or twice per day. You can give your baby an oral antihistamine like Zyrtec or Claritin to combat the itching, but you may want to discuss proper dosage with your doctor first. If over-the-counter treatments aren't helping, ask your doctor about prescription medication options.	Identify triggers for your baby's eczema. Certain babies are more predisposed to developing eczema than others, as it has a strong genetic component. However, if you pay careful attention, you will likely notice that certain things in the environment temporarily worsen, or trigger, a flare-up of your baby's eczema. Common triggers to watch for (and to avoid if possible) include: Soaps and detergents. If you notice that this is a trigger for your baby, use mild, unscented soaps and detergents specifically designed for babies with sensitive skin to minimize irritation. Certain clothing, such as wool or polyester Dry skin Heat and sweat Stress Dietary triggers Observe your baby's diet for possible food allergies. Although the relationship between dietary triggers and eczema is controversial, there is suspicion that food allergies and sensitivities may be triggers for eczema flare-ups for some babies. Common problem foods include dairy products, wheat, soy products, eggs, nuts and seeds. Try removing common problem foods one by one from your baby's diet and see if you notice an improvement in his or her eczema. If you want to identify the specific trigger, it is important to eliminate only one food group at a time in order to determine which of them specifically is problematic (keeping in mind that it is possible for your baby to have more than one food allergy or sensitivity). See your doctor to confirm whether or not your baby has a food allergy. Your doctor can order blood tests or refer you to an allergist to help determine if your baby has an allergy to certain foods. Give your baby a short lukewarm bath. It is best to use lukewarm rather than hot water, as hot water can contribute to drying the skin, which worsens eczema. Also, shorter baths (ideally less than 10 minutes) are better than longer ones, as prolonged exposure to warm water also reduces the skin's natural moisture. You should give your baby a bath every two to three days. Gently pat your baby dry with a towel after bathing. Do not rub, as this can exacerbate skin irritation and worsen eczema. You can also try adding oatmeal soaking products to your baby's bath, as this may help to ease itching. Avoid using scented bubble baths. Stick with gentle products that are made for babies with sensitive skin, such as Aveeno, Cetaphil, or Eucerin. Apply moisturizing cream. Be sure to apply moisturizing cream once a day to maintain the skin's natural moisture, and apply it after bathing as well. Some examples of moisturizing agents that work well include Eucerin, Cetaphil, Nutraderm, and Aveeno. Dress your baby in loose clothing. Tight clothing can be irritating, so allowing the skin to breathe better with loose clothing is a good idea. Also, avoid dressing your baby in too many layers of clothing or overheating your baby, as sweating from excess clothing can worsen itching and eczema. Try a humidifier. Because eczema is exacerbated with dry skin, using a humidifier to add moisture to the air can reduce your baby's eczema flare-ups. You can try putting the humidifier on at night in the same room that your baby sleeps. Using a humidifier is most important in dry climates or during cold, dry weather. Cut your baby's nails short to reduce scratching. Eczema is an itchy rash, and scratching it only makes it worse. Therefore, keep your baby's nails short to reduce the impact of any scratching. You can also have your baby wear mittens or gloves during the day so that he or she cannot scratch, if the eczema is particularly severe. Another protective measure is applying wet dressings to the areas of the eczema rash. Applying a wet dressing helps to keep the skin moist, and also protects it from your baby trying to scratch. Be sure to change dressings every eight hours. Make sure that you ask your doctor about how to use wet dressings for your baby. Check with your doctor to confirm your baby's diagnosis. While eczema is extremely common, you will want to see a doctor or pediatrician to ensure that this is in fact your baby's diagnosis, and to rule out that nothing more severe is going on. Also, your doctor can suggest medical treatments if lifestyle measures alone are insufficient in controlling your baby's eczema. Use anti-histamines to help with itching. Anti-histamines such as Zyrtec or Claritin can be taken orally, and help with symptom management by reducing the itching associated with eczema. These medicines are available over-the-counter. Ask your doctor about appropriate dosing for your baby, as medication dosing depends on the age of the infant. Try topical corticosteroids. Corticosteroids function by suppressing the immune response, thereby lessening the intensity (or altogether getting rid of) the eczema rash. You can purchase 1% hydrocortisone over-the-counter at your local drugstore or pharmacy. Apply the medicine to the areas of the rash once or twice per day, or according to the directions on the bottle. Ask your doctor for prescription medications. If over-the-counter options are not enough, then your doctor may order prescription medications for your baby. Your doctor can offer higher strength immune suppressant medications, such as stronger topical corticosteroids or other creams, or rarely oral medications. Or, your doctor may recommend other options such as anti-inflammatory medications. If your baby's rash becomes infected, he or she may also need topical or oral antibiotics to combat the infection. Follow your doctor's suggestions, as he or she will know best exactly what your baby needs. Use UV therapy as a last resort. UV therapy is not used as a first-line treatment because it increases the risk of skin cancer (it is analogous to spending time in the sun). However, it is sometimes used in very severe cases of eczema. Understand the course of eczema. Eczema is not a curable condition, but it is one that can be effectively managed by avoiding triggers and treating symptoms. Many people experience prolonged periods of remission of their eczema, and may go years without having any symptoms. If your baby has eczema, the chances of it recurring later on are high, but some babies outgrow it.	Identify triggers for your baby's eczema. Observe your baby's diet for possible food allergies. Give your baby a short lukewarm bath. Apply moisturizing cream. Dress your baby in loose clothing. Try a humidifier. Cut your baby's nails short to reduce scratching. Check with your doctor to confirm your baby's diagnosis. Use anti-histamines to help with itching. Try topical corticosteroids. Ask your doctor for prescription medications. Use UV therapy as a last resort. Understand the course of eczema.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-an-Apple-Pie	How to Make an Apple Pie	To make an apple pie, first prepare the dough by mixing flour, sugar, salt, butter, and water and dividing it into 2 equal portions. Then, make the apple filling by combining brown sugar, salt, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and ground cloves in a bag and shaking apple slices in the mixture. Let the apples sit in the bag for 3 hours, then add some tapioca starch. Next, use one portion of the dough to make the bottom of the pie crust, fill the pie with the apple filling, and top the pie with the rest of the dough. Finally, bake the pie for 75 minutes at 400 degrees Fahrenheit.	Whisk the flour, sugar, and salt. Get out a medium bowl and put 1 2/3 cups (225 g) of all-purpose flour into it along with 1 tablespoon (15 g) of sugar and 1 teaspoon (4 g) of kosher salt. Whisk the dry ingredients for about 30 seconds so they're combined. Avoid using whole-wheat or bread flour for the dough since these will make the pastry too dense and tough. Cut the butter into 1/2 in (1.3 cm) cubes and mix it into bowl. Cut 1 cup (225 g) of cold unsalted butter into cubes and put them in the bowl with the dry ingredients. Use your fingers to toss the butter and smash each cube until it's flat. You don't need to cut or rub the butter into the dry ingredients since it will incorporate when you roll and fold the dough. Stir in 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) of cold water to make a shaggy dough. Pour the cold water into the bowl and use your hands to mix the dough until it comes away from the sides of the bowl. The dough should be rough and shaggy instead of a smooth ball. The dough should be cool or it will become sticky and difficult to handle. If you need to cool the dough, wrap in plastic wrap and chill it for a few minutes before you roll and fold it. Roll the dough into a 10 x 15 in (25 x 38 cm) rectangle. Sprinkle a large work surface with flour and scoop the dough onto it. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a large, roughly shaped rectangle. It's important to have a well-floured surface or the dough will stick and make it difficult to handle. Fold the rectangle twice to make a small, thick rectangle. Bring the narrow ends of the rectangle towards the center like you're closing a book. Then fold them in half again so you're left with a thick block of folded dough. Folding the dough will create flaky layers within the pastry. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions. Use a sharp knife or bench scraper to cut the dough into 2 portions. You'll roll out 1 portion for the bottom crust and 1 portion for the top crust. Since you'll be rolling the dough into a circle, it doesn't matter what shape you cut the dough. Shake the brown sugar, salt, and spices in a sealable plastic bag. Get out a 1 gallon (3.8 l) plastic bag and put 1 cup (225 g) of packed brown sugar into it. Add 2 1/2 teaspoons (6.5 g) of ground cinnamon, 3/4 teaspoon (3 g) of kosher salt, 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of ground ginger, 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) of grated nutmeg, and 1/4 teaspoon (0.5 g) of ground cloves. Seal the bag shut and shake it to mix the ingredients together. If you're short on time, substitute 3 1/2 teaspoons (8.5 g) of your favorite apple pie spice for the individual spices. Peel, core, and cut the apples into 1/2 in (1.3 cm) slices. Rinse 4 ⁄ 4 pounds (1.9 kg) of apples and peel them. Then remove the cores and set the apples on a cutting board. Cut each apple into equal sized wedges that are about 1/2 in (1.3 cm) wide. Use your favorite type of apple such as Granny Smith, Golden Delicious, Northern Spy, Jonagold, or Pink Lady. You should have about 11 heaping cups (1.9 kg)of cut apples. Add the apples to the bag and shake them. Open the bag with the spices and brown sugar. Put the apple wedges in the bag and squeeze out as much as as you can before you seal the bag shut. Shake the bag well so the apples are coated with the brown sugar spice mixture. Mixing the apples in the bag will prevent them from browning since they're not exposed to air. Let the apples rest in the bag at room temperature for 3 hours. The sugar and spices will draw moisture out of the apples as they sit. Turn the bag every once in a while to coat the apples in the syrup that will develop. If you want to prepare the apples in advance, refrigerate the apples as they macerate for up to 8 hours. Add the tapioca starch and shake the bag. Open the bag with the apple filling and add 1/4 cup (25 g) of tapioca starch. Seal the bag and shake it well so the tapioca starch mixes with the juice. The tapioca starch will thicken the filling as the pie cooks. If you don't have tapioca starch, substitute cornstarch (also called corn flour) or instant clearjel. Roll half of the dough into a 14 in (35.5 cm) circle and lay it in a pie dish. Sprinkle your work surface with a little flour and place half of the dough on it. Use a rolling pin to roll the dough into a large, thin circle that's 14 in (35.5 cm) in diameter. Turn the dough frequently as you roll to prevent it from sticking to your work surface. You may need to sprinkle more flour if the dough becomes sticky. Lay the pastry in a 9 in (22 cm) pie plate and trim the edges of the dough. Press the dough down so it fits into the corners and sides of the pan. The dough will extend up and over the sides of the pie plate. Take a sharp paring knife and cut the edge of the dough so it hangs over by 1 in (2.5 cm). Discard the scraps or roll them thinly (about 1/4 in or 6 mm) thick and dust them with cinnamon and sugar. Bake them at 350 °F (177 °C) until they crisp up and become golden brown. Roll the remaining half of the dough into a 14 in (35.5 cm) circle. Sprinkle your work surface with a little more flour and roll out the remaining half of dough into another large circle. Lay a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet and lay the pastry circle on it. Avoid trimming the circle for the top of the pie before you assemble the pie. Cover and chill the pastry for 2 hours. Cover the pastry in the pie plate with plastic wrap and cover the pastry on the baking sheet with plastic wrap. Transfer them to the refrigerator and chill them for 2 hours so the gluten in the dough relaxes. If you're in a rush and can't chill the dough, you can skip the resting time. Keep in mind that the pastry may not be as tender though. To make the pastry ahead of time, roll and chill it for up to 8 hours. Spread the apple filling into the pastry-lined shell. Remove the pastry dough from the refrigerator and remove the plastic wrap. Open the bag with the apple filling and pour it into the pastry in the pie pan. Use your hands or a spoon to arrange the apples so they're evenly distributed and mound a little in the center. Remember to pour the accumulated spiced liquid into the shell too since this will thicken the filling. Lay the top pie crust over the filling and seal the edges. Remove the baking sheet with the circle of pie dough and take off the plastic wrap. Place the circle over the apple filling and then pinch the top crust to the bottom crust. Then take a sharp knife and trim the edge to 3/4 in (19 mm) thick. Fold the sealed edge under itself loosely crimp the edges. If you prefer, press the tines of a fork around the edges to create a hatched look. Preheat the oven to 400 °F (204 °C) and chill the pie for 30 minutes. Turn on the oven and chill the pie while the oven is heating up. Refrigerate the pie until the pastry is firm and cold. You can refrigerate the assembled pie for up to 1 hour. Beat the egg, yolk, cream, and salt to make the egg wash. Crack 1 egg into a small bowl and add 1 egg yolk, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of heavy or whipping cream, and 1/8 teaspoon (0.5 g) of kosher salt. Whisk the mixture until it's completely combined and pale yellow. The egg wash will make the pie a rich, golden brown as it bakes. Brush the egg wash over the top of the pie and cut 6 vents in the pastry. Remove the chilled pie from the refrigerator. Dip a pastry brush in the egg wash and brush it evenly over the top of the pie. Then use a sharp knife to cut 6 vents across the top of the pie. Each vent should be about 3 in (7.5 cm) long so steam can escape from the filling as the pie bakes. Set the pie on a baking sheet and bake it for 75 minutes. Lay a sheet of parchment paper on a baking sheet and set the pie on it. Put the pie on the baking sheet into the preheated oven and bake it until the apples are soft and the pastry is golden brown. The baking sheet will catch any drips if the filling bubbles up and over the pie as it's baking. Cool the pie for at least 1 hour before you serve it. Take the pie out of the oven and let it rest at room temperature so the filling sets up. Then slice the pie and serve it with whipped cream or ice cream. To store leftover apple pie, cover it with aluminum foil and keep it at room temperature for up to 3 days. You can also refrigerate it for up to 4 to 5 days.	Whisk the flour, sugar, and salt. Cut the butter into 1/2 in (1.3 cm) cubes and mix it into bowl. Stir in 1⁄2 cup (120 ml) of cold water to make a shaggy dough. Roll the dough into a 10 x 15 in (25 x 38 cm) rectangle. Fold the rectangle twice to make a small, thick rectangle. Divide the dough into 2 equal portions. Shake the brown sugar, salt, and spices in a sealable plastic bag. Peel, core, and cut the apples into 1/2 in (1.3 cm) slices. Add the apples to the bag and shake them. Let the apples rest in the bag at room temperature for 3 hours. Add the tapioca starch and shake the bag. Roll half of the dough into a 14 in (35.5 cm) circle and lay it in a pie dish. Lay the pastry in a 9 in (22 cm) pie plate and trim the edges of the dough. Roll the remaining half of the dough into a 14 in (35.5 cm) circle. Cover and chill the pastry for 2 hours. Spread the apple filling into the pastry-lined shell. Lay the top pie crust over the filling and seal the edges. Preheat the oven to 400 °F (204 °C) and chill the pie for 30 minutes. Beat the egg, yolk, cream, and salt to make the egg wash. Brush the egg wash over the top of the pie and cut 6 vents in the pastry. Set the pie on a baking sheet and bake it for 75 minutes. Cool the pie for at least 1 hour before you serve it.
https://www.wikihow.com/Contact-Cesar-Millan	How to Contact Cesar Millan	Cesar Millan is a busy man, but there are plenty of ways you can try contacting him. Try posting on Millan's official Facebook page or sending him a message on Instagram to get yourself noticed. You could also use the hashtag #casarsos if you want to ask a question about dog behavior. If your question is interesting, you might get a response! If you want to get on his show, send in a video audition to the casting call page on the Cesar Millan website. Or, if you just want to send a fan message, write to Millan at his Pack Project address in California.	Post on Millan's official Facebook page for the most visibility. Make sure you are signed into your own account on Facebook for a chance to reach Cesar Millan. Comment on the latest post you see on his page. With any luck, he will see your message and respond to it. The page is located at https://www.facebook.com/cesar.millan/. Be aware that the account as almost 9 million followers, so it can get quite busy. Don't get discouraged if your post isn't seen right away. If you have a question, try posting it no more than once a day. Flooding the page with lots of messages can be a nuisance and discourage the page operators from responding to your message. Leave a message on Millan's Instagram page to stand out more. Along with Facebook, Instagram is the best way to get ahold of the famous dog trainer. A lot of videos and updates are posted to the account from Millan's Dog Psychology Center in California. Make any comments or questions you have on the account's latest post at https://www.instagram.com/cesarsway/. Reaching Cesar Millan through social media isn't guaranteed. You may need to be persistent to get a response. While you wait, talk to other fans to increase your chances of being noticed. Visit Millan's Twitter account if you need to leave a more direct message. Log into your Twitter account, then navigate to Millan's account page. Click on the green button on the left side of the page to start a Tweet. Keep in mind that this message is still public, so anyone on Twitter can see it. Millan's official Twitter account is at https://twitter.com/cesarmillan. Although this method is more direct than posting through Facebook or Instagram, you still may not get a response right away. The direct messaging option isn't available. If you wish to reach out through Twitter, you will have to send a public Tweet. Use the hashtag #cesarsos if you need to ask about dog behavior. This hashtag is valid on all of Millan's social media accounts. Include the hashtag at the end of your message. If you're posting about dog behavioral issues, this hashtag makes your message stand out. Millan's official website recommends using this hashtag to post about dog behavioral issues. It doesn't matter if you type it in lowercase or capital letters. Since the hashtag is meant to ask Cesar Millan for help, avoid using it for other means. You can still reach out to him over social media or through his website. Send in a video or attend a casting call if you want to be on TV. Auditions are available sporadically, so check Millan's website often for updates. To have a chance of getting on TV, you need to show the producers your dog's behavior. The best way to do this is to film your dog's behavior and send the video to Cesar Millan's company. If you live near the casting call area, you can also go there in person. The show producers look for unique or unusual dog behavioral problems. Your video does not have to be professional, but it does need to show off your dog. Attend a show on the live tour if you want to learn about dog behavior. Cesar Millan sometimes tours across the U.S. At his shows, he teaches people how to understand and manage dog behavior. You can find show dates and buy tickets on his website. Continue checking the website as new dates are announced at https://www.cesarsway.com. Tour dates may also be announced at http://www.cesarmillanlive.com/. Large audiences attend these tours. You may not be able to contact Cesar Millan unless you're close to the stage or are lucky enough to find him after the show. Go to a dog training course if you need to work with Millan in person. Dog owners can bring their dogs to Millan's courses for behavioral training. Many of these courses are held at Millan's Dog Psychology Centers in California and Florida. Register for a course at https://www.trainingcesarsway.com/. Read the information carefully before signing up. Some of the courses are taught by Millan himself while others are taught by his staff. Submit the request form at Millan's official website if you want a fast reply. The website is called Cesar's Way. By using the “contact us” tab at the bottom of the page, you can access a form to communicate with Millan's staff. Type in your contact information and your request, then hit the submit button. You can access the form directly at https://www.cesarsway.com/contact. The form is meant for business-related requests, such as advertising, sponsorship, or issues with product purchases. For issues regarding dog behavior, reach out through social media. Write to Cesar Millan if you need an alternative to the website. The mailing address listed on the website is also for business requests. Avoid using it to ask about dog behavior, since your message likely will be ignored. Mail a letter to the address, then wait or a response. This takes at least several weeks, so it isn't as quick as reaching out through the contact form. Send the letter to: Cesar's Way, Inc. or Cesar Millan PACK Project PO Box 802888 Santa Clarita, CA, 91380-2888 Contact Cesar Millan's PACK Project if you're interested in charity work. The charity is open to donations and may also be open to sponsorship opportunities. Its goal is to encourage dogs and people to live in harmony together. You can give a donation through the charity's website or reach out to them to discuss other ways to contribute. With enough effort, you may even get to speak to Cesar Millan. Read about the charity at https://www.cesarsway.com/get-involved/cesar-millan-pack-project/about. You can reach out to the charity by emailing [email protected].	Post on Millan's official Facebook page for the most visibility. Leave a message on Millan's Instagram page to stand out more. Visit Millan's Twitter account if you need to leave a more direct message. Use the hashtag #cesarsos if you need to ask about dog behavior. Send in a video or attend a casting call if you want to be on TV. Attend a show on the live tour if you want to learn about dog behavior. Go to a dog training course if you need to work with Millan in person. Submit the request form at Millan's official website if you want a fast reply. Write to Cesar Millan if you need an alternative to the website. Contact Cesar Millan's PACK Project if you're interested in charity work.
https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-Ice-to-Relieve-Back-Pain	How to Apply Ice to Relieve Back Pain	To relieve back pain, prepare an ice pack by filling a plastic bag with ice, or by purchasing a commercial ice pack or bag of frozen vegetables, instead. Wrap your ice pack in a towel or cloth to protect your skin from ice burn or frostbite, then find a comfortable place to rest while you ice your back. In 15 to 20 minutes sessions, press the ice pack against the area of your back that is in pain. Keep in mind that you can repeat this up to 5 times daily, as long as you keep the treatments 45 minutes apart. If icing doesn't help ease your pain after a week, or if the pain becomes unbearable, schedule an appointment with your doctor.	Prepare an ice pack. If you are experiencing back pain and want to use an ice pack to relieve it, you can either make an ice pack or purchase one. From commercial packs to bags of frozen vegetables, any choice you make can help you alleviate discomfort and reduce inflammation. You can purchase commercial ice packs specifically designed for the back at many pharmacies and medical supply stores. Make a slushy ice pack by pouring three cups (710 ml) of water and one cup (237 ml) of denatured alcohol in a large freezer bag. Wrap it inside another freezer bag to avoid spilling. Place it in the freezer until it is a slushy consistency. You can put small ice cubes or crushed ice in a plastic bag to make an ice pack. You can also use a bag of frozen vegetables, which may nicely fit the contours of your back. Wrap the ice pack in a towel or cloth. Before you apply your ice pack, wrap it in a towel or cloth. Not only can this keep you from getting wet and keep the pack in place, but may also protect your skin from becoming numb or getting ice burn or even frostbite. It's especially important to wrap a commercial blue ice pack in a towel. These are colder than frozen water and can cause frostbite. Find a comfortable place for your treatment. You want to be comfortable while you ice your back. Finding a comfortable place where you can lie or sit can help you relax, relieve discomfort, and get the full benefits of icing. It may be easier to lie down while icing your back. Be sure to keep your knees slightly bent to relieve pressure off of your lower back. You can also place an ice pack on a chair and hold it in place by wedging it between your back and the chair back. You may need to add a towel between the ice pack and the chair so it doesn't slip around. Place the ice pack on your back. Once you're comfortable, place the ice pack on the area of your back that is causing you pain. This may offer you some immediate pain relief and reduce inflammation that is exacerbating your discomfort. Keep the pack on the affected area for no more than 20 minutes per session. Less than 10 minutes may be ineffective but too much time can cause damage, so shoot for 15-20 minutes. Doing it for longer than 20 minutes can damage skin (cryoburn) and underlying tissues. You can use the ice pack after activity or exercise, but don't use it beforehand. This may prevent your brain from receiving important pain signals to stop. If your pack doesn't cover the entire area causing you pain, you can do spot ice treatments to get relief. Practice relaxing and taking deep breaths while you're using the ice pack to relieve more tension. Use a guided meditation if it helps you feel more therapeutic effects. You can also use elastic wrap or shrink wrap to hold the pack in place. Combine ice with a pain reliever. Try taking an over-the-counter pain reliever along with your ice treatments. Using this combination may relieve your pain more quickly and also help control inflammation. Take acetaminophen, ibuprofen, aspirin, or naproxen sodium to help relieve your back pain. NSAIDs such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium may also help relieve inflammation. Continue treatment for a few days. Ice is most effective for back pain in the days immediately following when you first notice pain. Keep applying the ice until you no longer have pain, or see a doctor if it persists. You can ice your back up to five times a day with at least 45 minutes in between treatments. The continued icing keeps your tissue temperatures low and may help reduce inflammation and pain. See your doctor. Consult with your doctor if icing doesn't help after a week or your pain becomes unbearable. She may be able to treat the pain more effectively and quickly, and can also identify any underlying causes that may be causing you discomfort. Fashion or buy an ice massager. Some studies have shown that ice massage may penetrate muscle fiber more quickly and may help you heal more effectively than an ice pack. You can either make or buy an ice massager to help relieve your discomfort. Make your own ice massager by filling a paper or Styrofoam cup about three-quarters full of cool water. Place this cup on a flat surface in your freezer until it is a solid block of ice. Make several ice massagers at one time so that you don't have to wait for the water to freeze each time you want to ice your back. You can also use ice cubes as ice massagers. Some companies are making commercial ice massagers, which you can purchase at some pharmacies and sports stores. Ask a friend or family member to help you. Although you may be able to reach the area of your back causing you pain, it may be easier to have a friend or family member help you. This can help you to relax and get the most benefit from an ice massage. Assume a relaxed position. Either sit or lie in a relaxed and comfortable position while you use ice massage. This can help you more effectively receive the ice treatment and may help relieve your pain faster. If you are at home, it may be easier to lie down to do the ice massage. If you are at work, you may want to sit on the floor of your office space or cubicle, or at the front of your chair if that is comfortable. Expose the ice massager. Peel away part of the frozen cup so that approximately two inches (five cm) of ice showing. This can expose enough ice to massage your sore back while keeping a barrier between your hand so that it doesn't get cold or frostbite. As the ice melts during your massage, keep peeling away the cup. Rub the ice massager over the affected area. Once you've exposed the frozen ice in the cup, begin gently massaging it over the area of your back causing you pain. This can help to penetrate deep into your muscle tissue and start to relieve pain quickly. Rub the ice massager in a gentle, circular pattern across your back. Massage the affected region for eight to 10 minutes per session. You can use ice massage up to five times per day. If your skin gets too cold or becomes numb, discontinue your ice massage until your skin warms up. Repeat ice massages. Continue to give yourself ice massages for a few days. This can help ensure that the treatments are effective and may help relieve your pain and any inflammation. Ice is most effective when used over the course of a few days. Take pain medication to bolster ice massage. Consider taking over-the-counter pain relievers to help bolster the pain relief and anti-inflammatory effects of ice massage. This may help you get relief faster and heal faster as well. You can use any number of pain relievers including aspirin, acetaminophen, ibuprofen, and naproxen sodium. NSAIDs such as ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen sodium can minimize swelling and inflammation that exacerbates pain. Schedule an appointment with your doctor. If your back pain continues following a few days of icing treatments, make an appointment to see your doctor. She may be able to identify underlying conditions or give you stronger treatments to alleviate the pain.	Prepare an ice pack. Wrap the ice pack in a towel or cloth. Find a comfortable place for your treatment. Place the ice pack on your back. Combine ice with a pain reliever. Continue treatment for a few days. See your doctor. Fashion or buy an ice massager. Ask a friend or family member to help you. Assume a relaxed position. Expose the ice massager. Rub the ice massager over the affected area. Repeat ice massages. Take pain medication to bolster ice massage. Schedule an appointment with your doctor.
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Scorched-Pot	How to Clean a Scorched Pot	One way to clean burnt-on food from the bottom of a scorched pot is by filling it with hot water and letting it sit overnight before scrubbing the gunk with a sponge. To boost the soaking power, add a squirt of dish soap and submerge a dryer sheet in the hot water. If soaking doesn't make it any easier to get your pot clean, you can maximize your scrubbing power with abrasives. After rinsing your pot, sprinkle a layer of baking soda on the bottom, then add a layer of salt before pouring in a little bit of distilled vinegar. With everything in the pot, use some elbow grease and steel wool to remove the burned-on spots. However, make sure to avoid using abrasives on non-stick pans, since they will ruin the coating.	Soak the pot overnight in hot water and soap for an easy clean. Add a dash of soap to the pot and place it in the sink. Run the water in the sink until you get hot water and then fill the pot up completely. Let it sit overnight before attempting to scrub it out in the morning with fresh water and a sponge. If you have a tea kettle, you can use boiling water instead of just hot tap water for extra scrubbing power. Use a dryer sheet to increase the scour-fighting effects of soaking. Squirt dish soap into the pot and set it in the sink to fill it with hot tap water. Submerge a dryer sheet in the pot and leave it to soak for at least an hour. When you get back, remove the dryer sheet and scrub the pot as you normally would. You can also leave the dryer sheet in overnight if you prefer, and it will have an even greater effect on the pot. Alternatively, try a few dashes of fabric softener in the pan overnight. Try bleach cleansing powder for a quick 30-minute soak. When you take the pan off the stove from cooking, rinse it out and then sprinkle in the cleansing powder. Pour in enough hot water to cover the scorched area and leave it alone to soak for 30 minutes. Scrub it down thoroughly with soap and hot water to remove the soap and gunk after 30 minutes. Comet and Ajax fall into this category. Use baking soda, salt, and vinegar to scrub the pot clean. Sprinkle baking soda in the bottom of the pan, enough to mostly coat it. Add a layer of salt on top of that. Finally, sprinkle on white, distilled vinegar and scrub down the pan with steel wool or a sponge to remove tough burned-on spots. Bigger salt flakes work better, so use sea salt or kosher salt. Don't use this method on nonstick pans. Try oxalic acid with aluminum foil for stubborn gunk. Once you rinse the pan, add a sprinkle of oxalic acid. Use a wadded-up piece of aluminum foil to scrub the bottom of the pan thoroughly. Rinse it out and then wash it with dishwashing soap and water. Don't leave the cleaner on the pan for more than 1 minute or so, as it can damage the pan. Don't use this cleaner on coated pans. This cleaner could remove the coating on nonstick pans so use with caution. Scrub the pan down with a melamine sponge for a non-chemical approach. These sponges work on a microscopic level to scrub away gunk. All you need is the sponge and water, though it wouldn't hurt to add some baking soda. Scrub the pan in circles, moving all around it as you go, and the eraser will take up most or all of the burnt-on gunk. These sponges will harm nonstick pans, so only use them on your other pots. Boil plain water in the pot if you don't have special cleaners. Add enough water to cover the scorched area and set the pot on the stove. Bring the pot to a boil and let it boil for 5-10 minutes. Once it's done, take it off the stove and pour out the water. Scrub the pot down with steel wool and soap to take off the burned areas. Deglaze the pan with water or vinegar to help with large bits. To deglaze the pan, heat it up without anything in it over high heat. It's ready when you drop a small amount of water in it and the water sizzles. Once it's done, pour in enough water or vinegar to coat the bottom of the pan and leave it to cook for a minute or two. Use a plastic spatula to scrape off the burned-on bits, then wash the pan as you normally do. This method will produce a lot of steam, so stay back! Don't use this method on nonstick pans, as you shouldn't heat them up without anything in them. Slice lemons in the pan and boil the water for a gentle acid cleaner. Use enough water to cover the 2-3 lemons you cut up in the pan. Place the pot over high heat and let it come to boil. When it boils, let it continue for about 5 minutes, then take the pan off the heat. Scrub the pan down with soap and a scrubbing pad to remove the burnt-on bits. You can use any citrus with this method, such as limes, grapefruits, or oranges. You don't have the cut the citrus up very much. Slices or quarters is fine. Add enough water and white vinegar to the pot to cover the bottom. Fill the bottom of the pan with just enough water to cover it. Add 1 cup (240 mL) of vinegar to the water in the pot. Don't use the good stuff. Just stick to good old white distilled vinegar. It will do the trick. Bring the water and vinegar to a boil. Set the pan on the stove and turn the burner on high. Let the solution heat up until you see a rolling boil. Let it boil for a few minutes, as you keep an eye on it. Once you see the burnt-on bits starting to come up, take it off the stove. This step will get pretty smelly, so be prepared! Sprinkle in baking soda after pouring out the vinegar. Pour the vinegar/water mixture down the sink. Add enough baking soda into the pan that you lightly coat the bottom of the pan. You'll get a good fizz from this combination so watch out! Scrub the pan thoroughly with a steel wool pad. Use small circles to scrub the pan, applying elbow grease as you do. Go around the pan several times to remove as much of the crud as you can. If you need to, you can rinse it out and add a bit more baking soda. In fact, if some areas don't come clean, just mix a little baking soda with water and leave it on the pan for 30 minutes to an hour. When you come back, the stubborn spots should be easy to remove. Wash the pan with soap and a regular sponge. Once the scoured bits are mostly gone, clean the pot as you usually do. Scrub down the inside with dishwashing detergent and a normal sponge, then rinse it out.	Soak the pot overnight in hot water and soap for an easy clean. Use a dryer sheet to increase the scour-fighting effects of soaking. Try bleach cleansing powder for a quick 30-minute soak. Use baking soda, salt, and vinegar to scrub the pot clean. Try oxalic acid with aluminum foil for stubborn gunk. Scrub the pan down with a melamine sponge for a non-chemical approach. Boil plain water in the pot if you don't have special cleaners. Deglaze the pan with water or vinegar to help with large bits. Slice lemons in the pan and boil the water for a gentle acid cleaner. Add enough water and white vinegar to the pot to cover the bottom. Bring the water and vinegar to a boil. Sprinkle in baking soda after pouring out the vinegar. Scrub the pan thoroughly with a steel wool pad. Wash the pan with soap and a regular sponge.
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Hand-Mixer	How to Use a Hand Mixer	To use a hand mixer, first make sure that the mixer is unplugged and the speed is on low before you insert the beaters. When you're ready to mix, plug the mixer in, place the beaters into the bowl, and start the speed control button at 1. Then slowly increase to your desired mixing speed. Once you are done mixing, turn the speed back down to low before you unplug.	Read all the instructions that came with your hand mixture. Reading the instructions is the base step of working with any device. Note that each machine has something different in it, though the basic method of working is same in all the devices. Read the manual that came with the device and you will be safe. Make sure that you do not let the machine cords, plug, or even the body to touch water. When you are working in a kitchen, this is a common mistake that may happen. Do not let children touch this appliance as this can cause injuries. Avoid moving the parts constantly. Try to keep those in a fixed spot which will reduce the risk of damage. Know the parts of the mixer. A hand mixer has four major parts. They are: as on/off button, power burst button, mixer body button and bowl rest button. There is no separate button to attach the mixing items with your mixer. You will have to do that separately. See what attachments you have. Some common attachment options are flat beaters, straight wire beaters, single whisks, twisted wire beaters and dough hooks. Some of them may come as a gift with your hand mixer. Do not use the bowl rest option when the mixer is on. It will damage your mixer. Keep your case on hand. Most hand mixers come with a storing case. You need to clean and dry your mixer before you put it in the storing case. Make sure that the mixer is unplugged and the speed is on low before you insert the beaters. Plug the mixer using your cable to the socket. Also, it is time to place the beater into a bowl. Slowly use the speed control button to set your desired speed. Start with 1 and then slowly increase it to your desired speed. When you are done mixing, make sure to turn the speed down to low before you unplug the mixer. Unplug the mixer by pulling the cable off from the socket. Eject the beater that you installed. Each mixer has a different procedure of removing beaters. Read your manual to understand your method. Make sure that the speed is set to 0 before you try this step. Turn off and unplug the mixer from socket before you eject the attached items. Use hot and soapy water to clean the attachment first. Attachments will always be dirtier than the main mixer. Take a wet cloth and wipe the main mixer body. Let the mixer dry and then put it in the storing box.	Read all the instructions that came with your hand mixture. Make sure that you do not let the machine cords, plug, or even the body to touch water. Do not let children touch this appliance as this can cause injuries. Avoid moving the parts constantly. Know the parts of the mixer. See what attachments you have. Do not use the bowl rest option when the mixer is on. Keep your case on hand. Make sure that the mixer is unplugged and the speed is on low before you insert the beaters. Plug the mixer using your cable to the socket. Slowly use the speed control button to set your desired speed. When you are done mixing, make sure to turn the speed down to low before you unplug the mixer. Unplug the mixer by pulling the cable off from the socket. Eject the beater that you installed. Turn off and unplug the mixer from socket before you eject the attached items. Use hot and soapy water to clean the attachment first. Take a wet cloth and wipe the main mixer body. Let the mixer dry and then put it in the storing box.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Denim-Purse	How to Make a Denim Purse	To make a denim purse, start by cutting the legs off an old pair of jeans. Then, cut open the crotch at the seam and cut the extra fabric off so you have a straight edge. Next, turn the jeans inside out and fold them in half so the zipper is on one side, not in the center. Sew down the new sides to make a straight edge, then fold the pants so the original center seam in between the back pockets is in the middle. Sew a seam along the bottom, and voila!	Cut the legs off of a pair of jeans. Start by cutting one of the legs off, just below the crotch. Fold the jeans in half, then use the cut leg as a guide for the second one. This will ensure that the bottom of the bag is even. Denim shorts, skirts, and capris will also work. If you are using a skirt, cut it ½ inch (1.27 centimeters) longer than you want the bag to be. You can use jeans that you already own, or buy a pair from a garage sale or second hand store. Cut open the crotch at the seam, then cut the seam off. Begin by cutting along the crotch seam so that the pants open up like a skirt. Next, cut the crotch seam off of the pants completely—this is the folded, top-stitched part. Doing this will even up the bottom of the pants and help reduce bulk. Turn the pants inside out and fold them in half the other way. You want the zipper to be on one side edge and the back seam on the other side edge. You will have a front pocket and a back pocket on both sides of the folded jeans. If you are using a denim skirt, simply turn it inside out. Sew down the new side edges so that they are straight. Sew straight down from the zipper to the bottom, cut edge of the pants. You will have a little triangle that used to be the crotch. Repeat this step for the back seam. Use a pen and ruler to draw guidelines if you have to. If you are using a denim skirt, skip this step. Cut off the triangle points. Your new side seams should now be straight. If you want to, you can press open the new side seams with an iron. If you are using a denim skirt, skip this step. Fold the pants back the way they used to be. You should how have the zipper and front pockets on one side, and the back pockets on the other. The original size seams should be on the left and right edges. Make sure that all of the seams match up. Sew across the bottom edge of the bag. Use a ½-inch (1.27-centimeter) seam allowance. Remember to backstitch at the start and end of your sewing and to go slowly over the seams. Trim off any overhanging fabric so that the bottom edge is even. Sew across the bottom corners if you want a fancier bag. Flatten the base of the bag so that the bottom corners turn into flaps. Sew across each flap, about 2 inches (5.08 centimeters) away from each side edge. This will make the base of the bag wide enough so that it can stand up on its own when you set it down. If you want a simple bag, skip this step. Consider adding some embellishments. You can skip this step if you want a simpler bag. If you want a fancier one, however, you should add the embellishments now before you add the straps and lining. Start by turn the bag right side out. Next, add some patches, embroidery, buttons, or studs—whatever you like! You can even stitch on some crocheted lace or a cut up doily onto the bag. Some items, such as studs, will need special tools. Cut a 2-inch (5.08-centimeter) wide strip from one of the pant legs you cut off. How long you make this strip depends on how long you want the strap to be. You can have one long shoulder strap. You can also cut it in half and make two shorter handles instead. Cut a 2-inch wide strip out of cotton fabric for the lining. You can cut this from an old, button-up shirt, a pillowcase, or cotton fabric from the store. If you don't want a contrasting lining on your handle, cut another matching strip out of the other pant leg instead. Pin the strips together. If you want clean, finished edges on your handles, pin the strips with the right sides facing in. If you want a rustic, raw edge on the handles, pin the strips together with the right sides facing out. Sew the side edges of the strips together. Use a ¼ to ½-inch (0.64 to 1.27-centimeter) seam allowance. The smaller the seam allowance, the wider the strap will be. Do not sew across the two narrow edges. Turn the strips inside out, if needed. If you pins the strips with the right sides facing in, you will need to turn them inside out. This will hide the seams inside the strips and give you a clean, finished edge. If you pins the strips with the right sides facing out for a rustic finish, skip this step. Top stitch the strips, if desired. If you turned the strips inside out, consider topstitching along the edges using a ⅛ to ¼-inch (0.32 to 0.64-centimeter) seam allowance. You can also sew straight down the handle for a nicer finish. This will work for both types of handles: finished or raw. Pin the handle(s) to the inside of the bag. If you made one long shoulder strap, pin the narrow ends to the side seams on your bag. If you made two short handles, pin one handle to the front of the bag, and the other handle to the back. Keep the narrow ends a few inches apart. You can have the colored liner on the outside or the inside. The ends of the handles should be just below the waistband of the bag. Sew the handles in place. Simply stitch back and forth across the bottom edge, using a ¼ to ½-inch (0.64 to 1.27-centimeter) seam allowance. If you want to, you can also sew across the top and sides of each handle, securing it further to the waistband of the bag. Remove the pins as you sew. Trace the bag onto a button-up shirt for the lining. Add a ½-inch (1.27-centimeter) seam allowance to the bottom and side edges. Use a shirt with a bright, colorful pattern. You can also use cotton fabric instead, or even an old pillow case. Avoid tracing over any pockets, seams, or buttons. Cut the liner out. Try to cut through both layers of fabric at the same time. Remember to include the ½-inch seam allowances. If your shirt had a front pocket on it, consider cutting that out as well, as close to the seams as you can. You can add this pocket to the inside of your bag. Sew a front pocket onto the lining, if desired. If your cut the front pocket off of your shirt, pin it to the right side of one of your lining pieces. Make sure that the bottom edge of the pocket is at least ½ inch (1.27-centimeters) away from the bottom edge of the lining. Topstitch the pocket down, following the original stitching as much as possible. Pin and sew along the bottom and side edges of the liner. Pin the two pieces of fabric so that the wrong sides are facing out. Sew along the bottom and side edges using a ½-inch (1.27-centimeter) seam allowance. If you widened the bottom of your bag by sewing across the triangular flaps, you will need to do the same thing for the liner. Sew the bottom flaps on the liner and bag together. Turn the bag and the liner inside out so that the wrong sides are facing out. Match up the bottom triangle flaps. Sew across them using the original stitching as a guide. This will help secure the lining to the back. If you made a simple bag without the widened bottom, skip this step. Trim the triangles flaps off, leaving a ¼-inch (0.64-centimeter) seam allowance. This will help reduce bulk. Serge the edges, or go over them with a zigzag stitch. If you made a simple bag, skip this step. Fold the lining onto the bag. Tuck one hand into the bag. Use your other hand to roll the lining down onto the bag, like putting on a sock or a pair of pantyhose. When you are done, the lining should be right side out, with the bag tucked inside of it. If you made a simple bag, turn the lining right side out, then tuck the bag into the lining. Fold the top edge of the lining down towards the waistband. Secure it with sewing pins as you go. For a crisper finish, press it flat with an iron. How far you fold the lining down is up to you. You can fold it past the waistband or halfway down the waistband. Make sure that you are folding towards the waistband so that the raw edge is tucked inside. Sew across the top of the lining. You can do this on a sewing machine or by hand using a ladder stitch. If you are using a sewing machine, sew as close as you can to the top edge of the lining. If you are sewing by hand, make sure that you only sew through the inside layer of the waistband. Don't let the needle and thread come out the front. Machine sewing is only recommended if you folded the lining past the waistband, otherwise you will sew across the belt loops. If you are sewing on the machine, make sure that the bobbin color matches the jeans and the thread color matches the lining. Turn the bag right side out. It is now ready to use! If you want to, you can embellish it with details to make it even more special. Here are some ideas to get you started: Weave a ribbon through the belt loops, then tie it into a bow over the front button. Weave a bandana or a leather belt through the belt loops for a rustic touch. Add a snap, button, or zipper closure to the bag. Decorate the bag further with fabric paint. Add some decorative pins or patches.	Cut the legs off of a pair of jeans. Cut open the crotch at the seam, then cut the seam off. Turn the pants inside out and fold them in half the other way. Sew down the new side edges so that they are straight. Cut off the triangle points. Fold the pants back the way they used to be. Sew across the bottom edge of the bag. Sew across the bottom corners if you want a fancier bag. Consider adding some embellishments. Cut a 2-inch (5.08-centimeter) wide strip from one of the pant legs you cut off. Cut a 2-inch wide strip out of cotton fabric for the lining. Pin the strips together. Sew the side edges of the strips together. Turn the strips inside out, if needed. Top stitch the strips, if desired. Pin the handle(s) to the inside of the bag. Sew the handles in place. Trace the bag onto a button-up shirt for the lining. Cut the liner out. Sew a front pocket onto the lining, if desired. Pin and sew along the bottom and side edges of the liner. Sew the bottom flaps on the liner and bag together. Trim the triangles flaps off, leaving a ¼-inch (0.64-centimeter) seam allowance. Fold the lining onto the bag. Fold the top edge of the lining down towards the waistband. Sew across the top of the lining. Turn the bag right side out.
https://www.wikihow.com/Calculate-ERA-(Earned-Run-Average)	How to Calculate ERA (Earned Run Average)	To calculate Earned Run Average, first you need to count the number of earned runs that the pitcher gave up during the game. Remember to leave out any runs that were unearned, like in the case of an error. Then, divide that number by the number of innings that the player pitched in. For example, a pitcher who pitched 6 innings and allowed 3 runs would have an average of 0.5 runs per inning for the game. To get the average over 9 innings, multiply the answer by 9 to get the ERA, which would be 4.5 in this case.	Know a bit more about earned run average. Earned run average is the number of times a man from the opposing scores a run due to the fault of the pitcher. This could be because of three things: The batter made a hit. Although it does mean the pitcher threw a strike, it counts against his earned run average. The pitcher walked the batter. This could be the result of the pitcher throwing four balls or hitting the batter with the pitch. Understand the rules. To calculate an accurate ERA, you must have accurate numbers. You need to know the earned runs, but to do this you have to look at when the pitcher was pulled from a game. For example, if a pitcher played three innings and in the fourth inning allowed a man on every base and then was pulled, all three of those men would count against his ERA. They do not transfer to the next pitcher simply because he was the one pitching when they made it across home plate. Make sure you don't count unearned runs in your calculations. Whereas earned runs are caused by hits and are the fault of the pitcher, unearned runs are usually caused by errors or passed balls and are not strictly the fault of the pitcher. Unearned runs do not count towards a pitcher's ERA. For example, there are runners on 2nd and 3rd base, with 2 outs. The pitcher throws a pitch to the batter, which ends up being a routine ground ball to the first baseman, but the first baseman bobbles it and can't make a play to get an out. One runner scores, and two are still left on base. The run is unearned, and if the two remaining runners on base happen to score, their runs also count as unearned. Know the required fields. To calculate ERA, you need three parts: the earned runs, the innings pitched, and the total number of innings. Earned runs, as explained above, are the number of times a pitcher lets a batter get on base. This is the total number for the whole game. The innings pitched is just like it sounds, the total number of innings this pitcher pitched. This number will always end in thirds. That is because for every inning three strikes can be made by the fielding team. That leaves three possible outcomes: a whole inning (three outs), an inning with two outs (ends in.66), or an inning with one out (ends in.33). The total number of innings refers to the number of innings in a complete game (9). Gather your information. You will have three numbers to use in your calculation. For example, say that Joe Smith plays for 6 innings in a 9-inning game and allows 3 men to score. Make the first calculation. For this, divide the number of earned runs by the number of innings played. Following our example, it would be 3/6, giving us the number.5. Multiply this number with the total number of innings. That means we would take our number of.5 and multiply it with 9, giving us 4.5. Test your number. Depending on your preference, you can calculate ERA two ways. The first (shown above) is ERA= total innings(earned runs / innings pitched). You can also formulate it as ERA = earned runs x total number of innings / innings pitched. Test your answer using the alternate method.	Know a bit more about earned run average. Understand the rules. Make sure you don't count unearned runs in your calculations. Know the required fields. Gather your information. Make the first calculation. Multiply this number with the total number of innings. Test your number.
https://www.wikihow.mom/Help-Slow-Learners	How to Help Slow Learners	To help a slow learner in your classroom, summarize the main learning points before each lesson so they know what to focus on. When you reach these points during the lesson, make sure to repeat them a few times, which can help your student remember the information. You can also use colored cards to gauge their understanding of the main learning points. For example, get them to hold up green, yellow, or red cards to show if they understand a lot, a little, or if they're still confused. Another useful method is to use more audio and visual aids to stimulate their senses and help them remember. Pay attention to which kind of aids help your student best, so you can use more of these in the future.	Repeat each learning point more than you normally would. Slow learners need to hear information a few times more than other students in order to understand it. Keep the other students interested by asking them questions and having them answer. Echo back their answers and explain how they relate to the point you are trying to teach. For instance, in a lower elementary class, you might say, "Saranda says 2x2 is 4, and she's right. We know this because 2 and 2 is 2 + 2, and that's 4." With older classes, you can reinforce learning points by leading discussions that encourage students to repeat the learning points. Ask questions about the subject matter, and ask students to explain their reasoning when they answer you. Use audio and visual aids. Slow learners may struggle with basic skills such as reading, so movies, pictures, and audio can help them learn things that they would not pick up from reading alone. Use various media to repeat the information you want them to learn. For instance, if you are teaching conjunctions to elementary students, you can supplement your explanations and worksheets with the classic "Conjunction Junction" cartoon from Schoolhouse Rock! When teaching a novel to high school students, help slow learners by passing out worksheets and supplementary materials with visuals, such as family trees of the characters involved, timelines of the plot, and images of historical maps, costumes, and houses from the period of the novel. You may even have all your students take a learning style quiz to find out what types of learners you have and what approaches would be the most effective. Guide students to the main points of lessons and tests. Slow learners may struggle to identify the main points of a lesson or a test, and may be overwhelmed by supplementary information. When teaching, make sure to identify and emphasize the learning points. Don't overwhelm your slow learners by moving on too quickly or asking them to learn many details beyond the main points. Before you start a lesson, summarize the main points so all your students know what they should be paying attention to. Provide study guides for tests so that slow learners know what information they need to concentrate on. Assign quicker learners supplementary reading and worksheets that fill them in on supplementary details about the topic. Use real-life examples when teaching math. Introduce new math concepts by applying them to situations that your students can relate to. Use drawings and props, like pennies, beans, or marbles, to help students visualize the numbers. For instance, to introduce division to elementary students, draw a circle on the board and tell students it is a cake that has to feed 6 people equally. Then draw lines to divide it into 6 slices. For older students, some concepts may be more confusing using real-life scenarios. For concepts such as solving for an unknown variable, teach the form directly. Slow learners may be missing math information from previous years. If a slow learner is struggling with a new concept, check to make sure they know how to do more basic skills. Teach reading skills. Slow learners may struggle to read "automatically," the way their peers do. To help them catch up, teach reading skills to your whole class, or to a small group of slow-readers while other students work on supplementary projects. Encourage struggling readers to follow the words with their finger across the page as they read. Teach students to recognize phonemes and to sound-out unfamiliar words. Help your students with reading comprehension by training them to ask questions, such as "How does this character feel?" "Why did the characters make this decision?" "What could happen next?" Older students who are slow learners may also be helped by learning how to summarize chapters and otherwise annotate their reading. Give your class lessons on study skills. Slow learners need to go over material more than other students. Help them speed up their study time by teaching them efficient methods of outlining, note-taking, and memorizing. Give your class demonstrations of note taking and outlining. Teach students to break down big tasks into small pieces so they aren't overwhelming. Teach them how to memorize using mnemonic devices. For instance, "Never Eat Shredded Wheat" is a way to remember the directions "North, East, South, and West." Schedule daily reading. Slow learners need a lot of reading practice. Schedule sustained, silent reading time for your students every day. Provide a variety of reading materials, including books a little below grade level. Graphic novels may also be engaging for slow readers. Assign peer tutors and homework buddies. Rather than encouraging competition among your students, facilitate a culture of mutual helpfulness. Put your students in pairs so they can help one another learn new materials. Alternatively, you can train some of your quicker and more patient students to be "peer tutors," students who help other students understand their assignments. Assign jobs to all your students if you do this: put some in charge of passing out papers or feeding a class pet, for instance. Give slow learners work that plays to their strengths. Slow learners may become discouraged at having to work longer at things than other students. Provide them with daily breaks, and chances to excel. Identify areas where these students shine, and offer them the opportunity to pursue these activities in between more difficult tasks. For instance, a slow learner may be skilled at drawing, at sports, or at organizing. They may enjoy helping in the classroom, tutoring younger kids, or leading a team. Figure out the skills they take pride in, and give them opportunities to employ them. Praise their successes. When a slow learner completes a task, masters a concept, or otherwise triumphs, praise them wholeheartedly. You can praise them for trying, but don't focus on it: instead, praise them for finishing projects and figuring things out. They'll be less discouraged at how long things take if they know they receive congratulations at the end. Check for understanding during lessons. Develop a discrete way for your students to let you know how well they are understanding the material you are teaching. Avoid asking students to raise their hand if they do or do not understand. Instead, try giving students numbered or color coded cards to raise to indicate their level of understanding. For example, you could provide each student with a red, yellow, and green card. Then, ask students to raise up the card that indicates how well they understand. Red could mean they are confused, yellow could mean they need you to go slower or repeat something, and green could mean that the lesson makes sense so far. Provide homework help for your child. Your child will benefit from homework help, guidance with studying, and subject-specific lessons. You can be your child's tutor if your schedule permits. Just make sure not to do their assignments for them: instead, sit with them, help them organize their assignments, and walk them through difficult problems. If your school has an afterschool program with homework help, consider enrolling your child. If you're hiring a tutor, hire an encouraging, positive person who praises their efforts and their successes. Make their learning part of your family life. Affirm the importance of your child's progress by teaching and reviewing with them as a part of your daily routine. Run through time-tables on car trips, ask them to sound out long words at the store, and link family activities to what they are learning in school. For instance, if they are learning about the Holocaust, you can watch Schindler's List during your family movie night. Ask their teacher about in-school resources. If your child's school has a resource room, ask their teacher if your child might be eligible for small-group tutoring on subjects they struggle with. Sign up for any supplementary reading or study skills sessions offered by the school's librarian, writing center tutors, or other staff. Get the child tested for learning disabilities. Some slow learners may also have learning disorders. Diagnosing a learning disability will entitle a student to greater support. It will also help you support your child in areas where they struggle. It is not up to the teacher to request this kind of testing. The child's parents are the ones who need to request it. Slow learners will learn evenly across all categories at a rate that is just a little behind their peers, whereas learning disabled students may have uneven strengths and weaknesses. However, some slow learners may also struggle with a hidden learning disability. Arrange an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for your child. While IEPs are normally designed for children with learning disabilities, slow learners have also been shown to benefit academically and emotionally from individualized education. To get an IEP, schedule a conference with your child's teacher. Together, arrange to have your child assessed by the school system at no cost to you. After assessment, meet with your child's teacher and all relevant staff at your child's school and design an IEP. Before the meeting, make a list of things you want to include. Help your child set long-term goals. Children who are slow learners often live in the present. Because they are not rewarded by academic subjects, they may not see the point of school, and may complete tasks out of a sense of duty rather than with the goal of building a future. Help your child identify long-term goals, and break down the steps they can take to pursue them. Relate their school work to their long-term goals. For instance, if your child wants to own their own store, use business-related examples for math problems, and get them books to read that take place in stores. Give your child the chance to excel in non-academic arenas. Slow learners tend to live ordinary lives outside of the classroom, and may even excel in many non-academic areas. Celebrate your child's interests by signing them up for extra-curricular activities, such as athletics, arts, or outdoorsmanship. Ask your child what they are interested in, figure out what they are good at, and then get them involved. Support your child's social life. Encourage them to ask over friends from school, and get to know their friends' parents.	Repeat each learning point more than you normally would. Use audio and visual aids. Guide students to the main points of lessons and tests. Use real-life examples when teaching math. Teach reading skills. Give your class lessons on study skills. Schedule daily reading. Assign peer tutors and homework buddies. Give slow learners work that plays to their strengths. Praise their successes. Check for understanding during lessons. Provide homework help for your child. Make their learning part of your family life. Ask their teacher about in-school resources. Get the child tested for learning disabilities. Arrange an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) for your child. Help your child set long-term goals. Give your child the chance to excel in non-academic arenas.