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https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Smaller-Butt-and-Thighs-Without-Exercising | How to Get Smaller Butt and Thighs Without Exercising | If you want to get a smaller butt and thighs without exercising, try to cut down on sugary foods, like candy, cookies, and soda, which will help you lose fat overall. If you find yourself struggling to reduce the unhealthy foods you eat, take it slow and cut out 1 food at a time. Focus on eating balanced meals with plenty of fruit, vegetables, and lean meats. Even if you don't have time to exercise, there are still easy ways to burn more calories. For example, stand instead of sitting whenever you have the option, like waiting for a bus. Or, take the stairs instead of the elevator to burn calories without taking time out of your schedule. | Make gradual improvements to your diet. It's well-known that diet plays a huge role in a physically fit body. Don't try and change your food choices overnight, though. Take small steps, and you'll get there. Start eating more vegetables at first, for instance. Then cut out sugary sodas. After that, choose fruit over fattening desserts. Next, start eating whole wheat bread instead of white bread. Then, cut out eating candy at work. Overtime, these small actions turn into good habits. Allow yourself a cheat meal every once in a while. Most people who have a low percentage of body fat still indulge in their favorite foods from time to time. Eating what you want every once in a while ensures that you don't get bitter about having a healthy diet. It also means that you won't end up binging on the foods you feel you're missing out on. So enjoy that cookie or piece of chocolate from time to time. Just don't let it become so frequent that you can no longer say to yourself that you have a healthy diet. If you're eating the right amount of food for your body type and the right type of food, it's only natural that the different parts of your body, like your butt and thighs, will eventually be in proportion to one another. The idea is not to diet but to make healthy eating a part of having a fit lifestyle. Choose healthy foods. There are many choices about what to drink and eat. One of them, junk food, for instance, usually has added salt and sugar and is high in saturated fat. Probably one of the biggest issues with it, though, is that it often tastes better than healthy food. It's okay to have junk food sometimes but the rest of the time, it's best to eat more nutritious food. Some of the ways to make better choices include reading food labels and swapping junk food from the five food groups. These five groups consist of: legumes/beans and vegetables; whole grain foods; poultry and lean meats, fish, eggs, tofu, nuts and seeds; and milk and yogurt cheese. Master the art of portion control. If you're not into exercising, portion control is important. If you discipline yourself to do this, you can try a little of everything. It's a way to eat better, yet you don't feel that you're sacrificing so much that it's cramping your lifestyle. Look for more action-oriented ways to do your chores. Use a push lawnmower instead of a riding lawnmower. If you are accustomed to using a riding lawnmower because of the size of your lawn, divide your lawn into sections and mow each section on separate days. Use a shovel instead of a snow blower. Use a rake instead of a leaf blower. Wash your car yourself versus taking it through the car wash. Do your housework to energetic songs that you love. You can't help but dance to it. Slow dancing burns approximately 3 to 4 calories a minute, and fast dancing burns about 8 calories a minute. If you dance while doing the housework, you'll be in the mid-range of about 5 calories a minute. So dance your way to a smaller butt and thighs while getting your housework done more quickly. Be that person that doesn’t try to stay in shape. You do this is by building up a set of habits over the years that help you stay fit without putting in a ton of effort. This happens overtime by making good lifestyle choices. Pick weekend activities that keep you moving like hiking and bicycling. Don't be a couch potato. Overall, sitting for too long is not good. Basically this means that whenever you can, get up and move. Replace your office chair with a stability ball. All the way around, sitting on a ball is much better for you. It requires good posture, and unlike sitting in an office chair, you can't slouch. Also sitting on a ball activates the core muscles of your back, hips and abdomen. When one part of your body gets in shape, it means that the other parts of your body, like your butt and thighs, receive benefit, too. Wear a weighted vest around your torso. This is a perfect investment if you don't like to exercise. You can wear it when you're cleaning the house or washing the car. A vest gives you an additional 20 pounds of weight to hold. You can even just walk around wearing it for 30 minutes a day. It will help you build muscle and burn calories, all without exercising. Stand, instead of sitting. Your metabolism and fat-burning enzymes are more active when you stand, and you'll burn up a couple hundred extra calories, too. So the next time you're waiting at the doctor or dentist's office, waiting to get on the bus, talking on the phone, or waiting in line to renew your driver's license, stand instead of sit and visualize your thighs and butt getting slimmer as you do so. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator whenever possible. Climbing the stairs is an easily accessible activity that fires and firms your glutes. For every 20 minutes of stair climbing, depending on your weight, you burn anywhere from 130 to 170 calories. The more calories you burn, the less fat your body stores, especially in fatty areas, like your butt and thighs. Ride your bicycle instead of driving your car whenever possible. Because you are using the lower part of your body to pedal, it's highly beneficial to both your legs and buttocks. Bicycling is also not hard on the body because it's low impact. Most people who ride a bike on a regular basis say that there glutes are much tighter than they were before they started riding. The reason this area gets toned is because your butt muscles are engaged when you cycle. Park far away. Many people when they can't find a parking spot get really bent out of shape. Well next time, use this to your advantage by parking blocks away, and happily walk to where you need to go. You'll not only be moving your butt, thighs and the rest of you, but you'll be burning calories, too. Also it's even more advantageous if you just ate because you store less fat after a meal if you walk afterwards. Use a pedometer. Studies show that just by wearing a pedometer that you walk 27 percent more than usual. It usually ends up being at least 1 extra mile a day. Even if you're not into exercising, it will just happen naturally that you'll choose to walk more. Walking 1 mile a day takes about 15-20 minutes to complete, which adds up to burning about 8 pounds per year. | Make gradual improvements to your diet. Allow yourself a cheat meal every once in a while. Choose healthy foods. Master the art of portion control. Look for more action-oriented ways to do your chores. Do your housework to energetic songs that you love. Be that person that doesn’t try to stay in shape. Replace your office chair with a stability ball. Wear a weighted vest around your torso. Stand, instead of sitting. Take the stairs instead of the elevator or escalator whenever possible. Ride your bicycle instead of driving your car whenever possible. Park far away. Use a pedometer. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Recognize-Skin-Cancer-in-Cats | How to Recognize Skin Cancer in Cats | To recognize skin cancer in cats, use your fingers to feel for lumps all over the cat's body and part the fur to look closely at the skin for irregularly shaped lumps with dark pigment. A lump that sits on the surface of the skin and has a definite border is more likely to be a wart, cyst, or harmless skin mass, but it's still important to get lumps checked by a vet. You can also watch to see if your cat scratches or chews at the lump, since skin cancer can cause irritation and look inflamed. | Look for lumps or discoloration. Skin cancer usually creates an area on the skin that is discolored and raised. When playing with your cat or cuddling up with it, take the time to look over its body for areas of discolored skin. Also look for areas where the cat's fur is out of place, perhaps due to a growth on the skin underneath. If you find an abnormal area, have it looked at by a veterinarian. Cats get lumps on their skin for a variety of reasons, and skin cancer is only one of them. Your veterinarian will be able to assess whether any lumps you find are a problem or not. Feel your cat's body for lumps. Because cats are covered in so much fur, its also important to feel your cat's body for signs of skin cancer. Feel for lumps and bumps on the skin in areas that are covered with fur and areas that are less covered. While skin cancer is often related to sun exposure, and thus occurs in areas with less fur, there are some kinds that are not related to sun exposure at all. Happily, cats are less likely than other animals to get skin cancer that is not UV triggered, such as mast cell tumors. Be especially diligent with looking for skin cancer on white cats. Squamous Cell Carcinoma (SCC) most commonly affects white noses, eyelids, and ears. This is a direct result of UV exposure to thin-furred skin that lacks pigment. A sun-loving white cat is the most common kind of cat to develop SCC, so you should regularly look for signs of this disease on white cats. Indeed, if the cat has one black ear and one white, the white ear is much more likely to be affected by SCC. Have all lumps assessed by a veterinarian. It is true that some signs related to skin cancer should spark your immediate concern, such as rapid growth, redness, or ulceration. However, there is no guarantee a small, slow-growing lump is harmless or harmful. This is why it is important to have all lumps assessed by a veterinarian. Some aggressive tumors are great mimics, and take on the characteristics of innocent lumps, such as being superficial or slow growing. However, at some point in the future, they may become aggressive. It is difficult to distinguish a harmless skin lump from a sinister one, just by looking at it with the naked eye. The only way to tell for sure whether or not a lump is harmful is to have the lump removed and a biopsy of it sent to the lab. Check the growth rate of a lump. Skin lumps are less likely to be sinister if they are slow growing, meaning they don't perceptibly change from one month to the next. Fast-growing lumps are called aggressive tumors. These often have the ability to spread to other parts of your cat's body. These types of lumps grow so quickly that you can often see a change from week to week. When you first find a lump, measure it with a ruler and record the measurement. Repeat the measuring process every week so that you can establish if the lump is changing or not. Assess whether the lump is under the skin or above it. A lump that sits discretely on the surface of the skin, has a definite border, and is not infiltrating the surrounding tissues is more likely to be a wart, cyst, or harmless skin mass than skin cancer. Skin cancer more often is embedded in the skin and the mass of it can be felt under the skin. Look for dark pigment on the lump. Black pigment in a pale skinned animal is a warning sign when it comes to skin cancer. Dark pigment is frequently associated with more serious cancers such as malignant melanoma, thus a dark-colored lump must never be ignored. Watch to see if your cat scratches or chews at the lump. Skin cancer can cause irritation, which means that your cat might scratch or chew on the lump to relieve that irritation. Some of the more serious cancers, such as mast cell cancer, contain histamine granules that can make the lump very itchy. Monitor for any inflammation or ulceration. Cancerous lumps tend to look inflamed, which means that the skin looks pinker than the surrounding tissue. When you first find a lump, look at the tissue surrounding it and see if that area is red or inflamed. In the early stages of squamous cell carcinoma, non-pigmented skin becomes inflamed and looks darker pink than the surrounding skin. The skin will take on a scaly appearance and it can be mistaken for ringworm. Ulceration means that the lump breaks open and becomes a wound. If you notice this, seek medical help for your cat. Look for irregularly shaped lumps. Cancerous lumps often take on irregular shapes. This means that they lack a round shape, as regular lumps are generally round. The lump instead infiltrates deeply into the skin, so that the skin appears “glued” down to the tissue beneath. See if the skin becomes darker in color. With squamous cell carcinoma, if your cat continues to lie in the sun, the inflamed areas may take on an angry red color. There is also a chance that the skin will begin to erode; if this happens, ulcers will begin to form. If the cancer affects an ear, the edge of the ear may become irregular in shape, almost as if small bites have been taken out of it. Protect your cat from the sun if you spot signs of skin cancer. Apply sunblock to your cat's sensitive skin until you can take it to see a vet. You can also keep your cat indoors on sunny days to prevent it from lounging in the sun. Close the shades to further block UV rays. If possible, get a sunscreen that is made specifically for cats. If there is none available in your area, use a sunscreen designed for children and choose the highest SPF available. Always check the ingredients and avoid using a lotion that contains octyl salicylate and zinc. These are not good for cats, as they may swallow the product and be exposed to potentially toxic effects while grooming. Have your cat seen by a vet. It is unwise to make assumptions about skin lumps on cats. Skin cancer is rare, but when it happens it is often of the more serious sort. With this in mind, if you find a lump on your cat, get it checked by a veterinarian. Call your veterinary office and tell them what you have found. Make an appointment to have your cat seen as soon as possible, so that if there is a problem, you can begin treatment right away. Have a fine needle aspiration done. A fine needle aspirate (FNA) involves harvesting a small sample of cells from the lump with a hypodermic needle. It allows the veterinarian to inspect the cells for signs of cancerous growth but it does run the risk of missing cancerous cells due to the small size of the sample. This is a non-invasive procedure that is done with the cat fully conscious and most cats tolerate the process well. Get a biopsy done. A biopsy involves removing a wedge of tissue from the lump and sending it to be assessed at a lab. If the lump is easily removed, then an excisional biopsy may be performed. This means the vet will surgically remove the lump and will send a portion away for histology at a lab. A histology test determines if the lump is cancerous. | Look for lumps or discoloration. Feel your cat's body for lumps. Be especially diligent with looking for skin cancer on white cats. Have all lumps assessed by a veterinarian. Check the growth rate of a lump. Assess whether the lump is under the skin or above it. Look for dark pigment on the lump. Watch to see if your cat scratches or chews at the lump. Monitor for any inflammation or ulceration. Look for irregularly shaped lumps. See if the skin becomes darker in color. Protect your cat from the sun if you spot signs of skin cancer. Have your cat seen by a vet. Have a fine needle aspiration done. Get a biopsy done. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Italian-Sausage | How to Make Italian Sausage | To make Italian sausage, start by grinding up pork shoulder using a meat grinder or a grinding attachment on a stand mixer. Then, season the ground meat with spices like cayenne pepper, parsley, paprika, black pepper, and ground fennel seeds, and refrigerate it for 1 hour. Finally, stuff the meat into sausage casing using a sausage-stuffing attachment, and twist off the casing every few inches to make the individual sausages. | Buy 5 lbs. (2.2kg) of pork shoulder. Cut it away from the bone if it is not cut already. You can also make Italian sausage that is part beef and part pork. Replace 2 lbs. (0.9kg) of pork shoulder with ground beef to adjust the recipe. Buy sausage casings. Ask whether the casings should be soaked beforehand or not. If the sausage casings require soaking, place them in a bowl of orange juice and salt for 1 hour. Keep them moistened before using them. Cut the 5 lbs (2.2kg) of pork shoulder into small pieces. Grind the pork (and beef) together using a meat grinder or a meat grinder attachment on your stand mixer. Place the ground meat in a large bowl. Add the beef, if you are doing a mixed meat sausage. Add your spices to the meat. You will need to decide if you want a sweet or hot Italian sausage. If you want to make a traditional hot Italian sausage then add 2 tsp. (4g) of crushed fennel seed, 1 tbsp. (18g) salt, 1 tbsp. (6.9g) of black pepper, 2 tbsp. (10.8g) of hot pepper flakes and/or cayenne pepper, 1 tbsp. (1.9g) of parsley leaves and 2 to 3 tbsp. (13.8 to 20.7g) of paprika. If you want to make a sweet Italian sausage, then do not add hot pepper flakes, cayenne pepper or the whole measure of black pepper. Add the full 3 tbsp. (20.7g) of paprika. Put on plastic gloves. Knead the spices into the meat until it is well combined. Put plastic wrap over the top of the bowl. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour. Coat your sausage stuffing attachment with shortening. This will help to make the meat move evenly through the attachment. Tie the end of your casing. Place it at the bottom of your stuffing attachment. This portion of the process is best if done by more than 1 person, so that you can load the attachment, twist the sausage and have a smoother process. Fill the casing until it is firm. Try to fill well, so that there are not too many air bubbles. Tie off the end of the casing when you have only 3 inches (7.6cm) left. If you are using a traditional intestinal casing, you may want to tie with a string. Return to the beginning of the casing. Twist the sausage several times at intervals between 3 and 8 inches (7.6 to 20cm), depending upon how large you want your sausages to be. Prick each sausage with a pin to remove air bubbles. Place sausages in airtight plastic baggies. Freeze them immediately. Make sure you cook your sausages well before eating, since they are not pre-cooked like many store-bought varieties. Boil them for 10 minutes or grill until the internal temperature is 150 degrees Fahrenheit (65.5 degrees Celsius). Finished. | Buy 5 lbs. Buy sausage casings. Cut the 5 lbs (2.2kg) of pork shoulder into small pieces. Place the ground meat in a large bowl. Add your spices to the meat. Put on plastic gloves. Put plastic wrap over the top of the bowl. Coat your sausage stuffing attachment with shortening. Tie the end of your casing. This portion of the process is best if done by more than 1 person, so that you can load the attachment, twist the sausage and have a smoother process. Fill the casing until it is firm. Tie off the end of the casing when you have only 3 inches (7.6cm) left. Return to the beginning of the casing. Prick each sausage with a pin to remove air bubbles. Place sausages in airtight plastic baggies. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Paint-Your-Nails | How to Paint Your Nails | To paint your nails, first open the nail polish you're using and wipe the excess polish on the brush off on the rim of the bottle. Then, firmly press one of your hands down on a flat surface so it's stable. Starting at your cuticles, gently brush the polish onto your nails using 3 strokes per nail until they're all covered. Repeat with your other hand. Then, let the polish dry for 5-10 minutes. Once it's dry, apply a second coat of polish just like you applied the first one. If you get any nail polish on your skin, you can wipe it off using a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover. | Choose a nail polish in the color of your choice. Choose a nail polish that isn't too old - older nail polishes will become thick and gloopy and you'll find them harder to paint your nails with. If you're not sure how long the nail polish you're looking at has lived, flip the bottle upside down and if it seems thick and gloopy it's old. Another way you can tell it's old is if you open the bottle and lift the brush up and the nail polish seems like slime (slimy, goopy). If you really want to salvage an old nail polish that has become thick, add nail polish thinner to the old polish. Avoid storing nail polish in direct sunlight. Pick a place to paint. When choosing a place to paint your nails, go for a clean, stable surface in a well-lit room. A study desk or the kitchen table are good options, just make sure to put some paper towel beneath your hand so you don't get any polish on the surface. The room should also be well ventilated, as fumes from nail polish and nail polish remover are not good for your health. Gather the necessary supplies. Gather some cotton balls or rounds or professional tissues, some q-tips , nail polish remover , nail clippers , a nail file , a cuticle stick and a bottle of clear nail polish. Having all of these items easily at hand will speed up the nail painting process and minimize the chances of you smudging a nail. Take off any excess nail polish. Soak a cotton ball in some nail polish remover and hold it against the nail for ten seconds. Then swipe the cotton ball along the nail to remove the polish. Use a q-tip soaked in nail polish remover to get rid of any polish trapped around the edges.It is recommended to use professional tissue instead of cotton balls as the tiny cotton pieces may get onto your nail if your nails have not dried. Even if you don't have any nail polish on, you should still swipe some nail polish remover over your nails before you begin painting, to get rid of any natural oils on your nails. This will allow the polish to go on smoothly and help the color to last longer. Cut and/or file your nails. Its best to use a glass file and start from the the side to the middle. Do not do this back in forth because this makes your nail move. Go in a straight swiping motion. Do not buff your nails because this damages your nail beds and makes your nails thinning making it easier to break. Use the buffer to fix those this mistakes for shape your trying to achieve. Also try to look up what shape you want. You can give your nails a rounded or a square finish, depending on your personal preference. When filing your nails , rub the nail file from the outside of each nail to the center, doing each side of the nail separately. Each stroke should go in the same direction - you should never use a sawing motion when filing, as these may weaken and break the nails. Push back your cuticles. Your cuticles are the little pieces of skin at the bottom of each nail. They can make your nail polish application look messy if they are not pushed back before you paint. Cuticles are easier to push back when they have been softened , so try soaking your nails in a small bowl of warm water for a minute or two first. Dry your hands and nails thoroughly, then use a cuticle stick to push the soft skin of each cuticle back to the edge of the nail. Rub the bottle between your hands to warm the nail polish for about 25-30 seconds. This helps to mix up the contents of the bottle, stirring up any color that has settled on the bottom. Don't shake it -- rolling the bottle instead will prevent bubbles from forming in the polish and keep your nails smooth. Apply a base coat of clear nail polish. Applying a base coat of clear polish is one of the best things you can do when painting your nails. A base coat will give your chosen polish a smooth surface to stick to, will help the color last longer and will protect your nails from becoming stained by the colored polish. Allow the base coat to become fully dry to the touch before proceeding. You don't need to be too careful when applying the base coat -- it's okay if some of the clear polish gets on your skin as nobody will be able to tell since there's no color! There are two different types of specialized base coat polishes available - one is a ridge filler, which smooths the nails and provides an even, matte surface for painting on, the other is a strengthener, which protects the nails and helps them to grow longer and stronger. If you like, you can apply a layer of each! Press your hand firmly on the table. Don't just leave your hand resting on the table (as this might allow it to shake or move), actively press your hand down on the surface of the table, spreading your fingers wide apart. Start with your index finger, moving along each finger towards your pinky. Then lift your hand and rest your thumb on the edge of the table to paint your thumbnail. In terms of whether you paint with your good hand or bad hand first, it doesn't really matter, do whatever you feel most comfortable with. Your bad hand is always going to be shakier to paint with than your good hand - but practice will help. Open the bottle of colored polish and remove any excess from the brush. Having the perfect amount of nail polish on your brush is one of the keys to perfectly painted nails. To achieve this, wipe the brush on the inner rim of the bottle to remove any excess - knowing exactly how much polish should be on your brush is a skill that comes with time! Also take a look at the brush to see what shape it is. Most nail polish brushes used to be rounds, but more and more brands are introducing flatter style brushes, which allow for easier application and less mess. Place a drop of paint at the bottom of the nail. Position the nail polish brush at the bottom of your nail, just above the cuticle, directly in the center. Allow a drop of paint (enough to cover your whole nail) to fall on this spot and pool slightly at the bottom of the nail. This is a technique used by professional manicurists, so it might take some practice, but eventually it will allow for the easiest and neatest polish application. Use the three stripe rule. Manicurists and beauty experts agree that the three stripe method is the easiest and most mess-free way to paint nails. To do it, dip the brush in the drop of paint at the bottom of your nail and draw the brush upwards in a straight line through the center of the nail, all the way to the tip. Return the brush to the paint at the bottom of the nail and follow the curve along the bottom of the nail to the left, before drawing a second line, all the way to the tip. Use the remaining polish to draw a third stripe on the right side of the nail. You should have enough polish to cover the whole nail in a thin layer of color without having to dip your brush back in the bottle. If you apply too thick of a layer of polish, your nails will take much longer to dry and you will be much more likely to smudge them. When painting the outer stripes, don't take the polish all the way to the sides of your nails -- leave a tiny gap between the nail and your fingers. The gap will barely be noticeable and you will avoid getting polish all over your hands. Allow the first coat of polish to dry before applying a second coat. Nearly all nail polishes will require at least two layers, and some will need three. It is much better to apply several thin layers of polish than one thick one -- the results will be much neater and less inclined to smudge. You must allow the nail polish to dry completely between each application - this should take between five and ten minutes, depending on the brand of polish. Apply the second layer of polish using the exact same method you used to apply the first. Try to be equally careful -- don't become impatient and try to finish the job quickly, or you might ruin your good work. Allow the second layer of polish to dry completely, then decide if you need to apply a third. As you can see, painting your nails is time consuming, and you will need to allow yourself 30 minutes to an hour to do the job well. For this reason, it is a good idea to have prepared a snack/ gone to the bathroom/ turned on the TV before you begin painting your nails, so you won't be bored while waiting for your nails to dry. Apply a clear top coat. Once your second (or third) coat of polish is dry, you can apply a final top coat of clear polish. This will help to prevent the color from chipping and add extra shine. Apply the top coat over the colored paint, all the way to the tips, then go around the top of each nail and apply a little clear polish to the underside. This helps to prevent the color wearing from the top, while providing extra strength and support for long nails. Clean up any mess. Once your nails are painted and fully dry you can set about cleaning up any accidents that might have occurred along the way. To do this, simply dip a q-tip (preferably one with a pointed end) in some nail polish remover, then use it to go around the edges of each nail, removing any unwanted polish. Make sure to do this slowly and carefully - if you try to do it too quickly the q-tip might slip and you'll end up with a polish-free streak across your perfectly painted nails! Try to use a fresh q-tip for each nail - otherwise the excess polish on the end of the q-tip will just make more of a mess. . Use nail stickers Nail stickers are super easy to apply and are available in an endless array of shapes, colors and designs. All you need to do do is carefully remove the adhesive backing (or in some cases apply a little nail glue) and press the sticker firmly onto the nail for 10-20 seconds to attach. Little jewel stickers, like the ones shown in the picture above, are popular and can be purchased at most drug stores. It can be helpful to use a pair of tweezers to apply these stickers, as the tweezers will prevent you from dropping the sticker and prevent the sticker from attaching itself to your finger or to anything else and therefore not sticking to your nail. Nail stickers should only be applied once your nail polish has dried completely. Crystallize your nails. Another popular nail effect that you can do at home is to "crystallize" your nails using glitter or coarse white sugar. While the clear top coating on your nails is still wet, sprinkle the glitter or sugar onto your nails. As the top coat dries, the little "crystals" will become attached to your nails and you'll have a really cool effect! Try nail art. Nail art encompasses a whole wide range of designs and techniques, many of which require a steady hand and lots of practice! With nail art you can create polka dot , flower , ladybug and bow designs just by using different colored polishes and a toothpick, or you can get even more creative and try gradient, acid-wash and water-color techniques to produce a unique, eye-catching look. Do color blocking. Color blocking involves using two, three or more polishes of contrasting colors to create cool geometric shapes on each nail. You may want to use a thin paint brush, rather than the brush supplied with the polish, in order to effectively and neatly color block. Paint French tips. A French manicure consists of natural-colored pink or peach polish topped off with bright white tips. It is an extremely sophisticated look, which can be achieved at home with a little practice. Contrary to what you might think, the white tip is actually painted on first, using a special white polish provided in most home manicure kits. These kits may also provide adhesive strips which you can apply to your nails in order to get a perfectly straight white line across the tips. Otherwise you will need a very steady hand! Once you have done the tips and they have completely dried, you can apply the natural colored polish over the white polish, before finishing your nails off with a clear top coat. Try other nail painting ideas. Once you have the basic method of how to paint your nails, the possibilities are endless! Consider painting the galaxy on your nails, get feline fabulous with leopard print nails or be artsy and express yourself with splatter paint nails. If you can think of it, you can make it happen - with nail painting the possibilities are endless! | Choose a nail polish in the color of your choice. Pick a place to paint. Gather the necessary supplies. Take off any excess nail polish. Cut and/or file your nails. Push back your cuticles. Rub the bottle between your hands to warm the nail polish for about 25-30 seconds. Apply a base coat of clear nail polish. Press your hand firmly on the table. Open the bottle of colored polish and remove any excess from the brush. Place a drop of paint at the bottom of the nail. Use the three stripe rule. Allow the first coat of polish to dry before applying a second coat. Apply a clear top coat. Clean up any mess. . Crystallize your nails. Try nail art. Do color blocking. Paint French tips. Try other nail painting ideas. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Use-Case | How to Write a Use Case | If you need to write a use case, write a brief introduction describing the primary goals of implementing a new technology or business process. Define the preconditions that must be in place prior to the start of the use case, then detail the basic flow, or the procedure used to implement the process. Include any alternate flows, or less common scenarios that may arise, as well as exception flows, or what happens when the user can't achieve their goal. Conclude with the post conditions, or the elements that must be present when the use case is completed. | Write a goal statement. Write a sentence or two that briefly describes the primary goal of implementing the technology or business process. Define specifically the goals of the primary user of the system. A use case can be written to describe the functionality of any business process or piece of software or technology a business uses. For example, you could write use cases about logging into a system, managing an account or creating a new order. Identify the stakeholders. These are the people in the organization who care about the outcome of the process. They may not be users in the process described by the use case. But the system acts to satisfy their interests. List all of the stakeholders, including their names and their interest with respect to the operation of the system. Also, note any guarantees they expect from the system. For example, if you were writing a use case about how an ATM machine functions, the stakeholders would include the bankers and the ATM owners. They are not present when the user uses the ATM machine to withdraw cash. However, they must be satisfied that systems are in place to verify the amount of money in the user's account before dispensing cash and to create a log of transactions in the event of a dispute. Define what is in and out of scope. Specifically identify the system that is being evaluated, and leave out elements that are not part of this system. It can be useful in defining the scope of a project to create a spreadsheet containing an in/out list. Create three columns. The left column lists any topic at all that might relate to the system. The next two columns are titled In and Out. Go through the list and determine which topics are in and which are out. For example, if you were writing a use case implementing software to create purchase orders, topics that would be In would include producing reports about requests, merging requests to a purchase order, monitoring deliveries, and new and existing system software. Topics that would be Out would include creating invoices and non-software parts of the system. Define the elements of the use case. All of these elements are required in every use case. Use cases accumulate scenarios. They define how a user uses a system, what happens when the system succeeds, and what happens when it fails. Each scenario describes a procedure and what happens as each step progresses. Users are all of the people who will engage in the activities described in the use case. For example, if you are writing a use case for logging into a software system, the users would be anyone who must log in. Preconditions are those elements that must be in place prior to the start of the use case. For example, users with permission to use the system have been identified and entered into the system ahead of time, so the system will recognize their usernames and passwords when entered. The basic flow is the procedure the users use to achieve the primary goal of the system and how the system responds to their actions. For example, the user inputs a username and a password, and the system allows the user in. Alternate flows explain less common actions. For example, the user is on a different computer and must answer a security question. Exception flows detail what happens when the user cannot achieve the goal. For example, the user inputs an invalid user name or password. Post conditions are those elements that must be present when the use case is completed. For example, the user can proceed to use the software. Define how the user will use the technology or process. Each thing the user does becomes a separate use case. The scope of a use case is narrow. For example, if a company is implementing new software to create purchase orders, you could write several use cases about this. One use case might be about how users log in to the system. Another might be about how to run requisition reports. List all of the functions of the new technology or business process you are analyzing, and write a use case for each one. Describe the normal course of events for each use case. Outline everything the user does and how the technology or process responds to those actions. In a use case about how users log into a software system, the normal course of events would state that the user enters a username and password. The software responds by verifying the user and either granting or denying access to the system. Alternate flows and exception flows are written to describe the actions when there are obstacles to the goal. If the user is denied access because the system didn't recognize her computer, she may be prompted to verify her identity by answering a security question. If the user inputs an invalid username or password, she may be prompted to answer a security question and enter an e-mail address to receive new log in information. Repeat the steps for all other functions and users. Write use cases for all of the other functions of the software or business process. Identify the users for each function, and write the steps for the normal course of events. Explain contingencies for when the goal cannot be achieved. For each step, explain how the system responds to the actions of the user. Capture what the technology or business process does. The use case explains the goal of the technology or process, not how the technology functions. In other words, a use case about logging in to software does not include how the code must be written or how the technological components are connected. It simply focuses on what the user needs to do and how the software responds. Get the level of detail right. For example, if writing a use case about implementing technology, don't exclude details about how the software responds to users. Alternatively, adding too much detail about how the software functions reads more like system design implementation than a use case. Keep the use case primarily textual. Use cases do not need to include complex flow charts or visual diagrams that explain the process. Simple flow charts can often be used to clarify information. However, the use case should be largely word-based. The style of writing should be very simple so that others can read and comprehend it without specific training. Learn the most relevant details. Writing a good use case helps you learn exactly how a piece of software or business process works. It educates you and the reader about the correct use of applicable vocabulary. This way, you know you are not using technological terms incorrectly or gratuitously. You can learn to discuss technology and business processes in a way that is useful and valuable to others in the business community. | Write a goal statement. Identify the stakeholders. Define what is in and out of scope. Define the elements of the use case. Define how the user will use the technology or process. Describe the normal course of events for each use case. Repeat the steps for all other functions and users. Capture what the technology or business process does. Keep the use case primarily textual. Learn the most relevant details. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-a-Schnauzer%27s-Face-White | How to Keep a Schnauzer's Face White | To keep a schnauzer's face white, wipe its beard with warm water to remove any food stains. If its face is really stained, try rubbing a little dog shampoo into its beard, then rinsing it out. Additionally, wipe a wet, warm washcloth around your schnauzer's eyes to remove any build up that can lead to staining. You should give it dog food without artificial colors so the food dyes won't discolor its fur. Make sure to give your dog filtered water as well, so the minerals won't stain its coat. | Clean its beard after its last meal of the day. Use a natural dog shampoo to clean your schnauzer's beard. Make sure to rinse its beard until all of the shampoo is removed. Blow dry the hair on a cool setting until it is completely dry. Be careful when blow-drying your dog's hair, as dogs are sound sensitive. If your dog becomes stressed or fearful, take a break or use a towel to dry their hair instead. Alternatively, wet a cloth with warm water. Wipe your schnauzer's beard with the cloth to remove food and other debris that can cause staining. Wipe its eyes with a warm cloth. Dampen a cloth with warm water. At the end of each day, wipe around your schnauzer's eyes to remove eye matter and build up that can cause staining. You can also purchase specific products to help clear up eye stains at your local pet supply store or online. Trim its facial hair every five to eight weeks. Take your schnauzer to the groomer to have the hair on its face and around its eyes trimmed. Long hair around your schnauzer's eyes can poke and irritate them, causing tearing and staining. Additionally, trimming your schnauzer's hair periodically will promote new hair growth, making room for new, white hair. Feed your schnauzer a high-quality dog food. Feeding your schnauzer a high-quality dog food may help reduce staining on its face. Choose a dog food that is high in protein and low in grains and cereals. The first two to three ingredients listed should be a protein like beef, lamb, poultry, or fish. Additionally, choose a dog food that contains high-quality byproducts such as organs and entrails. Avoid foods that contain artificial coloring. Dog food and treats that contain artificial coloring will stain your schnauzer's face. If you want to keep your schnauzer's face white, choose a brand that contains zero artificial colors. Choose white or pale-colored treats and biscuits over colored treats and biscuits. Provide filtered water. Faucet water is more likely to contain hard minerals like iron that can stain your schnauzer's face. Instead, provide your dog with filtered water from water bottles or a water filtration system. Add 1 teaspoon (4.9 ml) of apple cider vinegar to its water. Add apple cider vinegar to your schnauzer's water for three to four weeks. After three weeks, repeat this every two months. Some people report that adding apple cider vinegar will further purify the water, reducing the chances of staining in your schnauzer's face. Supplement its food with probiotics. Supplementing your schnauzer's diet with probiotics can help maintain your dog's coat and appearance. Probiotics come in either a powder or a liquid form. Administer the probiotics per the instructions on the bottle. You can purchase dog probiotics online or from your local pet supply store. Talk to your vet before giving your dog any supplements. Clean and dust your house twice a month. An allergic reaction to dust and other seasonal allergens can cause tears and mucus to stain your schnauzer's white face. To prevent this from happening, dust your house often, especially during allergy seasons. Change your air filters every two to three months. Use stainless steel water and food bowls. Plastic food and water bowls tend to absorb colors and odors from dog food and water. These colors can transfer to your schnauzer's face while they eat and drink, causing staining. Instead, use stainless steel, glass, or ceramic food and water bowls. Alternatively, a dog water bottle is a great way to keep your schnauzer's face dry and clean. Take your schnauzer to the vet. If staining is still an issue, you should consider taking your dog to the vet. While some staining is ok, excessive and persistent staining can be a sign of a mild to severe health issue. For example, periodontal disease, fractured teeth, oral tumors, eye infections, allergies, eye abrasions, and face and mouth abnormalities can all cause excessive staining in schnauzers. | Clean its beard after its last meal of the day. Wipe its eyes with a warm cloth. Trim its facial hair every five to eight weeks. Feed your schnauzer a high-quality dog food. Avoid foods that contain artificial coloring. Provide filtered water. Add 1 teaspoon (4.9 ml) of apple cider vinegar to its water. Supplement its food with probiotics. Clean and dust your house twice a month. Use stainless steel water and food bowls. Take your schnauzer to the vet. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Vegetables | How to Cook Vegetables | To grill vegetables, start by washing and cutting them into disks. Then, heat your grill to medium, and place the vegetables directly on it. Finally, cook them for 3 to 10 minutes, depending on their density. Alternatively, you can roast your vegetables by cleaning them and cooking them in an oven set to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Remove the vegetables from the oven when they're tender enough to pierce with a fork. | Wash and cut your vegetables. Steaming is among the best ways to cook vegetables while preserving as many vitamins and nutrients as possible. You can steam just about any vegetable, and all you need is a steamer or steamer basket that fits in a saucepan. Wash your vegetables by rubbing them under clean water. Scrub tougher vegetables, like carrots, with a vegetable brush. Cut off any stems, and peel vegetables with thick or inedible skins, such as onion. Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces. Some of the best vegetables to cook by steaming include carrots, broccoli, cauliflower, asparagus, green beans, spinach, Brussel sprouts, potatoes, kale, turnip, zucchini, and bok choy. Add the water. If you're using a special steaming device, add enough water to reach the fill line on the steamer. If you're using a saucepan with a steamer basket, add about an inch (2.5 cm) of water to the bottom of a large saucepan. If you don't have a steamer basket, use a heat-proof colander instead. Add the vegetables. Place your vegetables into the steamer basket, and place the basket into the steamer or the saucepan. Put on the lid, as this will help keep the steam in. When you put the steamer basket into the saucepan, make sure the vegetables aren't touching the water directly. If they are, pour out some of the water. Heat the water and steam the vegetables. Heat your saucepan over medium heat or turn on your steamer. As the water boils, the steam will cook and soften the vegetables. Cooking time depends on personal preference and the type of vegetable. You can check if the vegetables are done by piercing them with a fork. If the fork goes in easily and without resistance, the vegetables are done. For smaller or crunchier vegetables, cook for three to five minutes. This includes celery, greens, peas, and leeks. For denser or softer vegetables, cook for 10 to 20 minutes. This includes Brussel sprouts, beans, broccoli, and potatoes. For large and very dense vegetables, cook for 25 to 40 minutes. This includes artichokes and beets. Season before serving. When the vegetables are cooked to your liking, remove them from the steamer basket and transfer them to a bowl. Season with salt, pepper, fresh or dried herbs and spices, or fresh lemon juice, to taste. Popular herbs for vegetables include: Thyme Oregano Rosemary Tarragon Lemongrass Wash and cut your vegetables. Grilling is a great cooking method for lots of vegetables, and popular ones include onion, mushrooms, zucchini, eggplant, squash, asparagus, peppers, potatoes, tomatoes , and corn. Wash and scrub your vegetables. Remove any stems, skins, or woody parts. Asparagus, mushrooms, corn, and small peppers can be left whole. Cut onions, zucchini, eggplant, and squash into 0.5-inch (1.25-cm) disks. Marinate the veggies. In a small bowl, whisk together the oil, lemon juice, herbs, and garlic. Place your vegetables into a sealable plastic bag or a glass bowl, and pour the marinade over the veggies. Stir to combine, or close the bag and shake the veggies around to coat them in the marinade. Set aside and let the vegetables marinate for at least an hour. Heat the grill. When you're ready to cook your vegetables, heat your grill to medium. If you're using a charcoal grill, get the coals nice and hot, and then let them burn until you have a large base of embers. Once the grill is preheated, you can cook the veggies. Place the vegetables on the grill. Larger vegetables can be laid out directly on the grill. Make sure to spread them out so they aren't overlapping, and let the excess marinade drip off before placing them on the grill. Smaller vegetables can go on the grill in a basket, on skewers, or wrapped in foil. Thinner and less dense vegetables will take about three to five minutes to cook. Larger and denser vegetables will take about eight to ten minutes. Use tongs or a metal spatula to flip the vegetables halfway through cooking. Root vegetables like potatoes and carrots should be cooked in foil to prevent them from burning on the outside and not cooking on the inside. Remove the veggies from the grill before serving. Using tongs or the spatula, remove the vegetables from the grill and place them on individual plates or a large serving platter. Season the veggies with additional herbs and spices before serving if desired. Boil your veggies. Boiling vegetables is a quick and easy way to cook veggies, but it's important to remember that boiling removes a lot of nutrients and vitamins from food. To preserve as many of those nutrients as possible, you should: Boil vegetables at a simmer, rather than a full boil Save the water you boil the veggies in and use it for other things, such as making rice or soups Use the microwave. Microwaving vegetables is actually a great way to cook them and preserve a lot of the nutrients, because microwaving cooks food so quickly. To cook veggies in the microwave: Rinse your veggies under running water and scrub tougher ones with a vegetable brush. Top and tail vegetables with stems or tips. Cut the vegetables into bite-sized pieces, or one-inch (2.5-cm) cubes. Place the veggies into a microwave safe dish, such as a glass bowl. Cover the bowl tightly with a lid or plastic wrap. Place the veggies on the rotating plate and microwave on high for between 4.5 minutes (for one pound of veggies) and 9 minutes (for two pounds). Remove one corner of the lid or puncture a few holes in the plastic to allow steam to escape before serving. Sauté or stir fry. Sautéing is a versatile cooking technique that you can use for lots of different ingredients, and you can make a stir fry using just about any combination of vegetables and proteins you like. When you stir fry vegetables, you can use a wide variety of oils (such as peanut, sesame, or canola), and you can add fresh herbs, dried spices, or different sauces to change the look and taste of the dish. Roast vegetables. After you clean your vegetables, place them in your bowl and drizzle them with olive oil and any desired seasoning like salt or onion or garlic powder. Lightly toss to mix. Place the vegetables in a single layer in your shallow baking dish. Cook in a 350 F (177 C) oven until the vegetables are tender. Roasting works best with whole vegetables or large chunks and thick slices. Braise them. Braising is a cooking method that combines both steaming and boiling, so you end up with perfectly cooked food that hasn't lost as many nutrients as it does when it's boiled. They key to braising is cooking with a lid on, so that the steam from the water cooks the vegetables instead of escaping into the air. To add flavor when braising, you can add herbs, spices, citrus, or other flavors to the pan as well. Fry your vegetables. Deep frying food may not be the healthiest cooking method because of the amount of oil used, but deep fried veggies are still a wonderful treat from time to time. If you don't want to deep fry your veggies, only add enough oil to the pan to have a half-inch (1.25 cm) of oil in the pan. Make sure you flip the veggies at least once to cook both sides. | Wash and cut your vegetables. Add the water. Add the vegetables. Heat the water and steam the vegetables. Season before serving. Wash and cut your vegetables. Marinate the veggies. Heat the grill. Place the vegetables on the grill. Remove the veggies from the grill before serving. Boil your veggies. Use the microwave. Sauté or stir fry. Roast vegetables. Braise them. Fry your vegetables. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Grow-Plants-Faster | How to Grow Plants Faster | If you want to help your plants grow faster, start your seedlings indoors, then transplant them to their permanent home once they have sprouted. If you're growing your plants indoors, use a grow light that mimics natural sunlight. You should also consistently feed your plants with fertilizer. The exact type of fertilizer and how often it should be given will depend on the plant and your own soil, but most fertilizers have a blend of nutrients like potassium, phosphorus, and nitrogen. | Perform a soil test. In order for you to pick the correct fertilizer, you will have to see what your soil composition is. You can buy a soil test from a big box store or any garden center.The results from this test will tell you what nutrients you need to add to create the best balance for your plants to grow. You can also send a soil sample to your local Department of Agriculture for more in-depth results. Pick an organic or inorganic fertilizer. Choose between organic and inorganic fertilizers. When you select inorganic fertilizer, look for the blend that supplies the best balance of nutrient requirements your soil needs. Organic fertilizers are harder to gauge because they vary in the amount of nutrients they supply. The organic fertilizer must also be broken down into inorganic substances in the soil for the plant to be able to use, which means it will take longer your plants to see a benefit. Inorganic fertilizers provide immediate nutrients to plants and help them grow faster. Organic fertilizers take longer to release in the soil, but they create a healthier soil over time. If your goal is to take an existing plant and make it grow faster, then use inorganic fertilizer. If you are looking to make a long-term garden or flowerbed, then organic fertilizer is more beneficial. Choose granular or liquid fertilizers. Granular fertilizers come in small pellets. Like organic fertilizer, they are best for long-term projects like flowerbeds. The coating on granular fertilizer is resin, which causes the nutrients to be released slowly into the soil. Liquid fertilizers work much faster, but they require more applications. Usually, you will need to spray liquid fertilizers on your plants every few weeks. Liquid fertilizer is also more expensive. Choose the fertilizer based on the urgency of your project. If you want future plants to grow faster, then choose granular fertilizers as this will make the soil richer over time. If you have a plant that needs immediate attention, then use the liquid fertilizer. If you choose a liquid fertilizer, make sure the read the directions on the bottle. Too many applications can over-fertilize and kill your plant. Look at the fertilizer’s nutrients. Plants require 16 nutrients to grow successfully. The three main nutrients are nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. These three are referred to as macronutrients. The secondary nutrients required are sulfur, calcium, and magnesium. Last, plants need the micronutrients boron, cobalt, copper, iron, manganese, molybdenum, and zinc. Without the three macronutrients, a plant will not be able to grow. Some fertilizers will have plant foods added to them. If you are growing one plant, such as a particular flower, this will help it grow. However, if you are growing many different types of plants at once, it is better to get a fertilizer without plant food. Determine the portion of nutrients on the bag. Different types of fertilizers use different blends of these nutrients. For instance, a 6-12-6 bag of fertilizer has 6-percent nitrogen, 12-percent phosphorus, and 6 percent potassium. Based on your soil test, choose the mixture that will add the most to your soil. If your soil is well-balanced, choose an all-purpose 10-10-10 fertilizer. Typically, this will be nitrogen-heavy, because that's the most common nutrient that's deficient in soil. IT will also likely have phosphorus and magnesium. Add the fertilizer to your plant. The best approach is to add the fertilizer uniformly to the soil. If you choose to use granular fertilizer, a drop spreader will help you distribute it. If you are fertilizing plants outside, be sure to clean up any fertilizer that spill into the streets or sidewalks. This will prevent it from getting into waterways. Fertilize your plants often. Plants go through nutrients quickly. In order to keep your plants consistently fed, make sure to add fertilizer to the soil as often at the plant requires, which will vary based on both the plant and fertilizer. Read the instructions on the fertilizer to see its recommendations. If you buy a pre-plotted plant, check the label on the plant to see what soil they were planted in. This will give you an idea how often you need to feed it. Choose the type of plant you want to grow. Various plants grow at different speeds. Look at various species of the plant you wish to grow. For instance, the glacier tomato will grow in 50 days compared to the average 70-90 day growth period of normal tomatoes. Consider growing greens. Certain types of greens grow very fast. Microgreens grow in 14 days. Arugula takes 21 days to grow. Lettuce takes 28 days to grow. There are many greens that grow quickly, particularly those that are used in salads. Pick your vegetables. If you are growing vegetables, pick ones that grow quickly. Fast growing vegetables include, snap beans, beets, broccoli, green onions, radishes, squash, cucumbers, okra, and peas. Select fast growing flowers. Fast growing flowers are useful for gifts or for filling out a garden. Pot Marigolds, Cosmos, and Yellow Flags grow fast and look great. Other great flowers to consider are sunflowers, sweet peas, and nigellas. Grow seedlings inside. If you are growing plants outside, but you have to wait for spring, grow your seeds inside. Seedlings take between 4 to 12 weeks to sprout. If you let them sprout inside and then transplant them into your garden, the plants will grow 4-6 weeks earlier than if you had waited to plant the seed directly into the flower bed. Gather a small group of containers that are 2–4 inches (5.1–10 cm) deep that have drainage holes. Avoid fertilizers. Instead, use a mix of peat moss and vermiculite inside the container. Let the plants set outside in their containers for a few hours each day. Do this for at least two weeks before you transplant them into the flower bed. This will help them acclimate to direct sunlight. The best plants to transplant are tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and melons. Some plants, however, do not transplant well. These are zucchini, beans, beets, corn, spinach, turnips, and peas. Talk to your plants. Studies show that plants respond particularly well to being serenaded. When you are fertilizing the plant, talk or sing to the plant. Record your voice using a device such as a radio or tape recorder and play it to them while you're gone. This will help your plant grow faster.. Give it light. Use a grow light if you are growing your plant indoors. The best grow lights are high-intensity discharge lights (HID). HID lights come in two types: metal halide (MH) and high-pressure sodium (HPS). MH bulbs cast the strongest light in the blue end of the spectrum, which causes a compact, leafy growth. HPS bulbs last longer than MH bulbs and produce light at the red/orange end of the spectrum. MH bulbs cause a flowering growth. Use coffee grounds. Coffee grounds help plants grow faster because of their caffeine. If you drink coffee, put the grounds in your plant instead of throwing them away. The grounds are rich in nitrogen, which is a key nutrient in a plants diet. There have also been studies that suggest that caffeine helps the plant grow faster. | Perform a soil test. Pick an organic or inorganic fertilizer. Choose granular or liquid fertilizers. Look at the fertilizer’s nutrients. Determine the portion of nutrients on the bag. Add the fertilizer to your plant. Fertilize your plants often. Choose the type of plant you want to grow. Consider growing greens. Pick your vegetables. Select fast growing flowers. Grow seedlings inside. Talk to your plants. Give it light. Use coffee grounds. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Catch-Yellow-Perch | How to Catch Yellow Perch | If you want to catch Yellow Perch, go fishing in lakes, rivers, or ponds in late summer or fall, which is when you're most likely to catch Perch. You'll also want to attach a small lure, like a one sixty-fourth leadhead, to your rod, because Perch have small mouths. Alternatively, try using live bait such as night worms or minnows as Perch are also known to enjoy these. When you're fishing, make sure your bait is near the bottom of the lake or river, which is where Perch are usually found. | Look in North American ponds, lakes, rivers and streams. Perch are common across the US and Canada. Since they're available in so many spots, and they're relatively easy to catch, perch fishing is a popular activity among anglers and families alike. Look for perch in these places in particular: Mississippi River Great Lakes Freshwater areas in the Midwestern, Northeastern and Northwestern US Freshwater areas in British Columbia, Nova Scotia and Quebec Fish for perch in late summer, fall and winter. Perch are active all year round, so you can technically fish them at any time of year. However, the period from late summer through early spring is the best time to catch perch.. During warmer weather, perch are found in shallower waters. In the winter, they go deeper. Ice fishing for perch is popular in winter. Look for perch at sunrise and sunset. During these periods, perch are most active in shallow waters. They're also easy to find in morning and late afternoon. Don't bother fishing for perch at night, though, since they're rarely active once the sun goes down. Fish near rocks and edges. Like many fish species, perch can often be found near rocky areas or edges of structures that provide shelter. They like to move among piles of rocks and wood, rather than spending time in completely open water. Look for places with an abundance of underwater structure or plentiful vegetation. If you're new to a particular lake, pond or stream, go to the local bait and tackle shop and ask where the perch like to hang out. You can often get wind of the best fishing spots by asking others with local experience. Use a light jig. Using a jig 5 to 5 ½ inches in length is best. You want to be able to feel the slightest nibble. However, if the weather is windy or you aim to catch bigger fish, you'll need a slightly heavier jig so you can maintain control. Try a basic rod and reel combination. It's a popular choice and works well for open water fishing. There are no hard and fast rules when it comes to choosing your rod and reel combination for catching perch. Whatever you're comfortable with should work just fine when you're fishing open water from a boat. You might want to consider getting a fast action rod tip. This helps you detect subtle bites, which is helpful since perch are known for stealing bait. Get a shorter rod to use in the winter. Ice fishing rods are 3 feet (0.9 m) in length. You should choose the lightest line possible for the type of fishing you're doing. 4 to 6 pound test line is preferred. Use a small lure. Perch have small mouths and need a smaller-sized lure. There are dozens of choices, many of which have been used to great affect, but the one sixty-fourth and one thirty-second leadhead lures are the most popular to use for fishing perch. Pick out lures with an array of different-colored skirts, since there's no telling what the perch will like on a given day. Use live bait. Perch prefer live bait, although some anglers have had success with crayfish meat. Ask around at the local bait and tackle shop to find out what perch in your particular area like to eat. These are the most popular choices: Minnows Insect larvae Night worms Fish from a boat in open water when it's chilly. This makes it easier to access the deeper waters where perch like to spend time throughout the fall and winter months. It's also easier to move to a new spot if they're just not biting where you set up at first. Fish from the shore near structures when it's warm. This is especially effective in early spring, when they tend to be in shallower places. Look for a spot near a rock pile, wood pile, or plenty of vegetation on the floor of the pond, lake or river. Fish near places where structures meet open water. Fish near the bottom. No matter how shallow the water is, or what time of year, the perch will be near the bottom of the lake, pond or river you're fishing. You'll be more successful if you can position the bait there. Consider using a sonar fishfinder. Perch commonly travel in schools and hide in the dense vegetation or mud. A good technique is to use sonar to locate the schools of yellow perch, then choose a jig that resembles the vegetation or mud in which they are hiding. Maggots with weights forcing them to sink to the bottom should be used when the schools are feeding on insects and plankton. Bobbers should be added to the line when perch are schooling in plant vegetation. This will help keep your bait still and prevent the perch from stealing it off the hook. Try various techniques. You need to figure out how to best reach the perch where you are. If something isn't working, try a new technique. Just as your bait should be adjusted to attract perch according to their current feeding location, you should also adjust your technique to fit the situation. Allow the bait to hit the bottom before wheeling back in. If you have hit in one spot and then the bites have quieted, cast in a circle around the boat. Run the boat motor, perch are attracted by the noise and vibration. Hit the rod against the bottom, then move the rod in quick little flicks to make the bait vibrate. Land fish quickly when the action starts. You might wait for hours to get a nibble, but when you catch one, many more usually follow, since perch hang out in schools. Land each fish and get your line back out to catch more. Now you're ready to fillet your perch and cook it. | Look in North American ponds, lakes, rivers and streams. Fish for perch in late summer, fall and winter. Look for perch at sunrise and sunset. Fish near rocks and edges. Use a light jig. Try a basic rod and reel combination. Use a small lure. Use live bait. Fish from a boat in open water when it's chilly. Fish from the shore near structures when it's warm. Fish near the bottom. Consider using a sonar fishfinder. Try various techniques. Land fish quickly when the action starts. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Medical-Complaint | How to Make a Medical Complaint | If you want to make a medical complaint, first figure out where you should file your complaint, whether that's the hospital itself or the national or state medical review board, so the right authority can actually address the issue. Once you know where to file your complaint, download and fill out the appropriate forms from their website. Along with your complaint forms, you should provide any relevant evidence like copies of medical records or second opinions from doctors. Keep in mind that the medical complaint process can be a bit overwhelming, so don't hesitate to ask a patient advocate at the hospital or from a patient advocate organization for help. | Decide on the scope of your complaint. There are many ways in which care may be insufficient and, depending upon what happened, you may want to complain about a specific doctor or an entire hospital. Things to consider include: Was it a single incident involving one individual that led to you receiving inadequate care? Was it a larger systemic problem such as unsafe conditions in a hospital? What needs to occur to correct the problem so that it doesn't happen to other people? Determine where you should file your complaint. Many hospitals, medical review boards, states, and government agencies, including Medicare, have formal procedures for filing complaints. You need to complaint to the appropriate authority so that they can conduct an investigation. If you complain to the wrong organization, they won't be able to address it. First try filing a complaint through the hospital itself. Many will have a specific department that handles grievances and will follow up on your complaint. Search online to see if there is a national or state medical review board that has authority over your health care provider. Many have formal complaint processes which can be conducted online. If you have a government run healthcare plan such as Medicare in the US or a National Health Services plan in the UK, you may be able to complain to them. The websites will guide you through the process for making a complaint. If you do not have a computer, search the phonebook for the numbers of your state's Department of Public Health. Many have departments that deal with licensing and regulations. If they do not accept complaints, they will be able to direct you where to go next. Consider what you want the outcome to be. Generally the medical board or organization will conduct an investigation and notify you of the outcome. If you have thoughts about what you feel would be appropriate, make your opinions known in your complaint. The review board will do what they feel is necessary to protect the public's health and safety, but, depending upon the severity of the incident, they may take your thoughts into consideration. Several outcomes are possible, including the following serious consequences: Formally reprimanding the healthcare provider Suspending a license Placing conditions on a license Revoking a license Keep your expectations realistic. This means understanding what the authority will not do. Read the instructions on the websites of the medical review organization carefully to make sure that the outcome you want is possible to achieve through a complaint to them. If you are complaining about rudeness or an unprofessional manner, that may not be within the scope of a state or national review board. Such complaints might be more effectively addressed to the hospital or health care provider directly. If you are seeking monetary compensation for damages, you will likely need to file a lawsuit in addition to a medical complaint. This would need to go before a court. Make sure you research your lawyer and choose reputable representation. Contact a patient advocate if you are overwhelmed. Healthcare services can be extremely bureaucratic and difficult to navigate. A patient advocate may be able to guide you or even file the complaint on your behalf. Many hospitals have patient advocates on staff. If you talk to a patient advocate who is employed by the hospital about which you would like to complain, ask them whether their assistance will be confidential. Search in the phonebook or online for patient advocate organizations, such as The Empowered Patient Coalition in the US or Healthwatch in England. These organizations should be able to help you find resources that are near you or relevant to your situation. Hire an attorney. If your issue concerns medical bills or you believe you were taken advantage of, you may want to speak with an attorney. The attorney can give you legal advice on what is permissible by law and help you seek damages if necessary. Common reasons for needing an attorney include: Denial of benefits and requests for assistance with the appeals process Fraudulent billing or unreasonably high charges Unnecessary medical procedures Review your insurance. Specific insurance plans can be hard to understand. Before filing a complaint in regards to billing, ensure that your insurance was filed correctly with correct diagnosis code. Ensure that coverage is reviewed to make certain that deductibles have been met and the service was a covered benefit. Use the appropriate forms. This will help the authority you are filing with quickly and accurately assess the incident. It will also help to make sure you provide all the information they need. Make sure you fill out the entire form correctly and that you include any necessary information. This will streamline process, ensuring timely response. Search the websites to determine whether there is a form that you can fill out and submit entirely online. If so, this will be the quickest and easiest way to do it. There may also be a downloadable form that you can print and mail. If you do not have access to a computer, you can either call the organization and ask them to mail you any forms you need, or you can use a computer at a public library. Provide evidence. When you fill out the complaint, be as specific as you can. This will help the organization to do a thorough, rapid investigation. If you have supporting documentation such as medical records or second opinions from other doctors, include copies of these reports — never send the originals. It is particularly important to provide: Names of the individuals and organizations involved. A clear concise description of the events that occurred. State the facts only, without inserting any opinions. A timeline that is as accurate as possible. Provide dates and times. Keep records of everything. Keep copies of all complaints, notes, and supporting evidence you provide. This is important in case you are asked for additional information later to verify the details. It is also crucial that you have copies in case the documentation you send gets lost. Keep a record of when you sent everything. Many online systems provide you with a confirmation number. Save the notification with the confirmation and date. If you send materials by mail, consider sending it with a tracking number so you can confirm that it was received. Keep records, including names, dates, and times, of all people you communicate with throughout the investigation. Ask the organization how they will contact you. Many organizations have formal procedures and timelines for notifying people about the status of their complaints. Things to ask include: Will you receive regular updates on the status of the investigation? If so, how often? Will you be notified of the outcome of the investigation? If so, how? Will the organization contact you by mail or email? Can you check online to see the status of your complaint? | Decide on the scope of your complaint. Determine where you should file your complaint. Consider what you want the outcome to be. Keep your expectations realistic. Contact a patient advocate if you are overwhelmed. Hire an attorney. Review your insurance. Use the appropriate forms. Provide evidence. Keep records of everything. Ask the organization how they will contact you. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-Tulips | How to Care for Tulips | Store tulip bulbs in the refrigerator for up to 2 months and plant in the fall in holes about 3 times their height. Water the bulbs right after you plant, then wait until their leaves sprout to give them another light sprinkling—that's it! Place 1 spoonful of flower fertilizer around each bulb at the beginning of fall and spring. After your tulips bloom, throw away any flowers with signs of blight, like brown speckled leaves or gray flowers. Then, when the flowers are spent, cut off the flower head to prevent wilting, removing the leaves and stems once they turn yellow. | Plant your tulips in the fall, about 6 to 8 weeks before winter. Tulip bulbs are best planted in September or October in the northern climates and October or November in the southern climates. The warmer your climate, the later they should be planted. The soil should be below 60°F (15°C). You can keep tulip bulbs in your refrigerator (or some other cool, dry location) for about 2 months before planting season if you buy them in summer. However, do not store them next to apples, as they give off ethylene, destroying the bulb. Most bulbs need 12-14 weeks of a "cold period" to bring about beautiful bulbs come spring. Do not buy bulbs after December 1st unless they've been "pre-cooled." Choose an area that receives some shade. It should be sunny at least part of the day where you plant your tulips. In places like the American southeast, plant them in a place that gets morning sun only. Tulips want sun, but they also want cool soil – don't give them sun that'll scorch them. If you're farther north, sun all day may be fine (the soil will be naturally cool enough). But if you live further south where it's hotter, shade in the afternoon will be better to keep the soil cooler. Choose sandy, well-drained soil with a pH of 6 to 6.5. There is no sub-species of tulip that prefers excessive moisture. The soil should be well-drained, neutral to slightly acidic, fertile, and even sandy. Wet soil is death to a tulip. Never purposefully go out of your way to water your tulips – all you can do is ensure drainage by adding shredded pine bark or even sand to the area. Loosen the soil. Before planting the tulip bulbs, use a planting fork or tiller to loosen the soil. Dig down in the soil 12 inches (30.5 cm) to 15 inches (38.1 cm). Then, mix 2 inches (5.1 cm) to 4 inches (10.2 cm) of compost into the soil. Plant the bulbs at a depth that is about three times as deep as the bulb. The bigger the bulb, the deeper your hole should be. It should be 12 inches (30.5 cm) to 15 inches (38.1 cm) deep. Loosen the soil to ensure drainage or create a raised bed. The bigger the bulb, the bigger the bloom will be, too. If you live in a very warm climate, you may wish to keep the bulbs in your fridge for the first 4-6 weeks to simulate cold weather. Give it a light watering every couple of weeks to retain a bit of moisture. Plant bulbs6 inches (15.2 cm) or more from each other. They need about 4–6 inches (10.2–15.2 cm) of their own soil to grow sufficiently, otherwise they encroach on each other's nutrients. Choose a plot size that allows each of your tulips its own "home turf." Plant each bulb pointy end up. Fill the hole back with soil and press the dirt into place firmly. Tulips rapidly multiply. Even if you only plant a few, in a couple of years, you'll have a whole family. Apply mulch. After planting your tulip bulbs, cover them with chopped leaves, wood chips or mulch. If you have rodents or animals in your garden that you're worried about, you may need to erect a cage or fence around the bulbs. You may also consider putting thorny leaves or gravel in with the soil to deter pests. Use a 1 inch (2.5 cm) to 2 inches (5.1 cm) layer of mulch, leaves, or wood chips to protect the bulbs, control weeds and retain moisture. If you're planting perennials, you'll need to feed them every year to start them going again. You can use organic material, compost, or a balanced time-release bulb food every fall to start the process going. Water your tulips once planted. Right after planting, the tulips do actually need watering to trigger growth. This will likely be one of the few times you actually have to water them. Do not water them again until you see leaves. Then, you can give them a light sprinkling and that's it. Water developing tulips only during a dry spell. If it hasn't rained in a few weeks in your area, give your tulips a dusting of water. This will be one of the rare occasions when you should step in and get some moisture into the soil. Tulips often need less water during the spring due to lots of rain and moisture. Most of the time, the weather will take care of this plant for you. Normal rainfall is all they need. Do not allow your tulips to remain in standing water. If there has been an excess of rain in your area, drain out any extra water from the area if you can. Tulips can't stand having wet feet and drenched soil may mean a swift goodbye to your lovely flowers. You may even consider adding some shredded bark or sand to the area around your tulips to help keep them dry. If you notice that the area you planted your tulips in collects water, you'll likely be better off moving the plant to a drier area. Dig them up taking the surrounding soil with you and find an area that rain falls on, but can drain out of. Fertilize your tulips. Fertilize your tulips once in the beginning of spring for continuous growth. A balanced liquid fertilizer works well. This is especially important for perennials. Sprinkle or pour about one tablespoon of flower or plant fertilizer around each tulip bulb. This will last them for their entire "hibernation" period in the winter. Tulips are great at storing nutrients for long periods of time. Did you forget to fertilize in the fall? You can use a fast-release nitrogen fertilizer on developing leaves. Tulips are pretty easy in the scheme of things. If you're dealing with annuals, they may not need fertilizer at all. In the right climate, you can plant your tulip and essentially forget about it, no watering or fertilization necessary. Check for blights and diseases. Blight (or Tulip Fire) creates brown specks on the leaves and turns the flower grey in color. If any of your bulbs are diseased, dig them up and throw them away to prevent it spreading to other tulips. If only part of the plant is damaged, cut it off to see if you can salvage the plant. The only thing you can do to prevent disease is to adequately care for your tulips. You can only make sure they get a modicum of moisture, a little bit of shade, and are planted in decent, slightly acidic soil. Aphids can be a problem, but they're easily handled with water spray. Deadhead your tulips after they flower. Tulips produce seeds once they begin to wilt, and these seeds weaken the bulb, making it unattractive. This practice of deadheading is best for perennials and annuals. Here's how it's done: Take shears and cut off the flower head from the stem once it's fully spent. Leave most of the stem in place for about six weeks or until the foliage starts to yellow. Shear off the leaves at ground level and dispose of the spent plant matter once the six weeks is up. Mark the location, if desired, so you can find the bulbs later. However, don't do this with species tulips. You want them to reproduce with their seeds and turn into an entire colony. Dig up the bulbs of annuals. Some tulips are annuals, meaning their entire life takes place over the course of one year ‐ they and their offspring won't be coming back. Once all the tulips have bloomed and died, dispose of the entire plant from bulb to tip. Many farmers and gardening enthusiasts prefer annuals when it comes to tulips. They're easy to grow, cheap, and when the year is done, that's it. They can grow more for the next year and experiment with different varieties if they so choose. Know if your tulip is likely to come back. If you're dealing with a perennial, you've left the bulb in the ground, and you cared for your tulips adequately, you may find that next year you have another crop of beautiful tulips (you may also find that you have too many – tulips reproduce quickly). Here are the varieties that are the most likely to come back with practically no effort from you: "Olympic Flame" Tulip "Peppermint Stick" Tulip Crocus Tulip "Negrita" Triumph Tulip "Spring Green" Veridiflora Tulip | Plant your tulips in the fall, about 6 to 8 weeks before winter. Choose an area that receives some shade. Choose sandy, well-drained soil with a pH of 6 to 6.5. Loosen the soil. Plant the bulbs at a depth that is about three times as deep as the bulb. Plant bulbs6 inches (15.2 cm) or more from each other. Apply mulch. Water your tulips once planted. Water developing tulips only during a dry spell. Do not allow your tulips to remain in standing water. Fertilize your tulips. Check for blights and diseases. Deadhead your tulips after they flower. Dig up the bulbs of annuals. Know if your tulip is likely to come back. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Have-Sex-Without-Falling-in-Love | How to Have Sex Without Falling in Love | To have sex without falling in love, be honest with yourself about why you're hooking up to begin with so you can be careful not to get attached to people. For example, if you want to have sex for fun or to experiment with new people, then you may be able to have sex without falling in love. If, on the other hand, you're having sex because you feel lonely, this might lead to unwanted feelings. In addition to considering your goals, avoid sleeping with people you share a romantic history with since this can trigger feelings of love and attraction. You should also set boundaries about what you do during your hook-up to avoid unwanted intimacy, like not cuddling afterward, avoiding kissing, or skipping any in-depth conversations about future goals. | Know that having sex does not mean that you need to fall in love. Having sex and falling in love are very different things. Most people are taught by movies, TV, and even friends/family that having sex will always lead to love. Love, however, is a complex and nuanced emotion that develops over time, building as you get to know someone emotionally and socially, not just physically. After orgasm women release a hormone called oxytocin, also known as the "cuddle chemical" that mimics feelings of connection and love. This is why, regardless of their logical thoughts about a person, love is often confused with sex. Avoid sleeping with people you share romantic history with. It is hard to return to friendship after a romantic or sexual relationship. Adding sex back into the mix, however, will always resurface feelings of love and attraction. One of the things that separate friends from couples is a lack of sexual connection. Rekindling your sex life together will rekindle the feelings involved as well, whether you want them or not. This includes sleeping with close friends, as your existing connection, when mixed with sex, leaves very little separating you from becoming a couple. Ask yourself what you are looking for in the hook-up. Why do you want to have sex with someone? Are you trying to have a little fun, experiment with new people, or feel lonely? You need to know your goals going in, because they will profoundly affect how attached you get to someone. Be honest with yourself to prevent confusion in the aftermath of the hook-up. Casual hook-ups aren't for everyone, but that is okay. If you tend to fall for every person you sleep with or are looking for a partner, then you should think twice about having casual sex. If you just want to have fun, have no interest or desire for a relationship, and feel like experimenting a bit, you should feel free to proceed. Hooking-up without developing strings is easier if you just want to have some fun and learn more about your sexual needs. Hooking-up because you are lonely, recently heartbroken, or hurting is often a recipe for unwanted attraction, as you try and compensate for your feelings with your new sexual partner. Set your boundaries. Are there things that automatically signal intimacy? Some people refrain from kissing their hook-up partner, as it feels too close to a real relationship. Other people prefer not to cuddle after the fact, or won't hook up with strangers. Have your boundaries set before you head out for the night and stick to them, as this will protect you and your heart from getting too invested. Long conversations spent getting to know one another, especially on an intimate level (goals, worries/fears, personal history), often lead to love and feelings of attraction. Always wear protection when hooking up with someone. Don't hook up every chance you get with the same person. Spend time apart to protect your feelings from turning into something more serious. If you've established with your partner that you are seeing other people casually as well, mix things up so that you don't fall too far for one person. Make pleasure the priority in the relationship. Don't stay over and cuddle, go on dates, or spend time talking late into the night. If you want to maintain a no-strings-attached, purely physical relationship, you need to stay purely physical. Focus on enjoying your time together, making sure both of you are satisfied when you leave but little else. A direct line on pleasure, instead of intimacy, is crucial to keep the relationship from developing into broader feelings. Gifts, dates, and sleepovers all lead to more intimate feelings. Focus on what feels good and, once you are happy, leave. Re-examine your relationship goals every few weeks. Do you feel yourself developing feelings for someone? More importantly -- are you enjoying the "No Strings Attached" lifestyle? Some people find hooking up with random sexual partners hollow, unfulfilling, and awkward despite the immediate pleasure. You are constantly evolving, growing, and changing, and your sexual preferences are no exception. How do you feel after a hook-up? Do you want to stay around but feel compelled to leave? Do you feel like trying something more permanent? Are you leaving something special because you told yourself you didn't want a relationship, or because you actually don't love this person? Leave when you're uncomfortable. If the type of sex your partner is giving you isn't what you want, leave. Sex without love is for the physical benefit for both of you, and if one person is not interested or doesn't care for what the other party is giving then they are free to leave. Remember, this is not a romantic relationship. There is no need to fear emotional baggage and how the other party might feel if you break things off casually. "I think I'm ready to look for something more permanent, but this has been fun." "I'd rather not keep doing this casually." "I'd love to keep in touch, but I'm ready to see other people now." Casually flirt with acquaintances, casual friends, or friends of friends to see if you have sexual chemistry. You do not need to get deep with someone, talking about your life, work, and goals or dreams. Casual flirting is more about smiles, light teasing, and occasional touching. If they reciprocate, then you're likely developing a rapport that can lead to a casual fling. Some hints to drop while flirting include: "I've had my share of relationships, and I am definitely not looking for any commitment right now." "I'm just here to have fun and meet someone cute." Communicate your intentions with your partner. You need to be clear and upfront with someone you are hooking up with from the beginning. If you are not you may lead someone to expect more than you are willing to give, ending in one-sided relationships that will end poorly for everyone. While this conversation can be awkward, the best advice is to come right out and say what you want: "I am not looking to start a relationship or begin dating." "I want something casual, not a girlfriend/boyfriend." "Let's have something light and fun." Act like friends, not lovers. There is no need to be gushy, overly-loving, or cuddly if you both want a quick hook-up. You wouldn't kiss your friend and send them flowers at work, so you shouldn't do it with a casual sexual relationship. But there is also no need to act ashamed, awkward, or aloof when with someone. Have a sense of humor about everything, enjoy each other's company, and keep things light. This will allow you to get everything out in the open, preventing bottled up emotions or stepping over the line. When you see someone again the next day, be kind and cordial -- a hug and hello is not the same as asking for a date. Be honest if you are seeing other people. You need to be upfront if you are keeping multiple partners "on-retainer." If you are hooking up with more than one person, your partner deserves to know. Remember, however, that if they take offense or would rather be with someone exclusively then you can both easily go your separate ways. If they believe you are exclusive and you keep seeing them, they may get the idea the relationship is going to develop into something more serious. Casually bring up funny, light, or interesting stories of other hook-ups to make it clear you are not exclusive. "I'm not looking to be exclusive right now, I hope that's okay with you?" Try casual dating apps to find people interested in hooking up. Apps like Tinder and Grindr were developed to help people interested in finding casual relationships in their area. You can download them for your phone, make a quick profile, and start talking with someone in your area almost immediately. Always meet in a public location first. Don't ever give personal or financial information -- your name is more than enough. Drive yourself to and from your meet-up location. Tell a friend or family member your plans to meet someone, your location, and when you plan on returning. Break things off when only one person develops romantic feelings. If you or your partner starts to fall in love, but the other person still wants to stay casual, you need to end the relationship. Trying to "work through" it, or convince someone to drop their feelings and go back to something less intense will never work, and the longer you stay together the stronger the feelings will get. Remember that this began as something casual -- it can end casually too. Things to say include: "This has been fun, but I'd like to look for something a little more serious." "This has been fun, but I'm not available for anything serious right now, and I'm going to see some other people." If something is in the early stages, stop making a move or trying to flirt, even if you think it is "harmless." | Know that having sex does not mean that you need to fall in love. Avoid sleeping with people you share romantic history with. Ask yourself what you are looking for in the hook-up. Casual hook-ups aren't for everyone, but that is okay. Set your boundaries. Don't hook up every chance you get with the same person. Make pleasure the priority in the relationship. Re-examine your relationship goals every few weeks. Leave when you're uncomfortable. Casually flirt with acquaintances, casual friends, or friends of friends to see if you have sexual chemistry. Communicate your intentions with your partner. Act like friends, not lovers. Be honest if you are seeing other people. Try casual dating apps to find people interested in hooking up. Break things off when only one person develops romantic feelings. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Add-More-Power-to-Your-Golf-Swing | How to Add More Power to Your Golf Swing | If you want to add more power to your golf swing, stand so your dominant foot is slightly ahead of your non-dominant foot. For instance, if you're right-handed, place your right foot a little further out than your left foot. Then, turn your non-dominant foot out about 45 degrees, which can increase the power on your downswing. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet, and let your feet lead the downswing by rolling both of your angles toward the target line. | Keep your right foot ahead of your left, if you’re right-handed. Your stance is an important part of your swing. When you are setting up for your swing, make sure to put your right foot a little in front of your left. You can also turn your right foot out a little. Both of these adjustments can help you increase your body coil on the backswing. Reverse these instructions if you are a left-handed golfer. Turn your left foot out 45 degrees. To create a more open stance, turn your left foot out 45 degrees at address. This adjustment may help you uncoil your hips faster, leading to increased power on the downswing. If you are a left-handed golfer, your right foot should be turned out at a 45 degree angle, instead. Brace your right knee. Many right-handed golfers lose power when they sway to the outside of their right foot. You can avoid this by applying pressure with the inside of the right leg to the ground on the backswing. This resistance is released on the downswing, which adds power to your golf game. Brace your left knee if you are left-handed. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet. If you put too much weight on the heels or toes of your feet, you'll have an unbalanced, and therefore weak, swing. Maintain your balance throughout the swing by keeping your weight on the balls of your feet, which will ensure the most solid strike to the ball. Keep a light grip on the club. Tense muscles in your hands and arms can decrease your swing speed. Relax your grip and arms to avoid this common error. Use an adjustable scale, with 1 being the lightest grip you could have on your club, and 10 being the tightest grip you could have. Aim for a grip of 4 or 5 to provide you with the right amount of control. Form a wider swing arc. A wider swing arc can give your golf game the power you are looking for. Rather than just picking up the club, extend the club fully away from you on the backswing. Move your arms as far away from your body as possible without moving your head. Let your feet lead the downswing. On the downswing, plant your left heel and roll both ankles toward the target line. Allowing your feet to lead pulls your knees in the same direction, creating a more powerful hip rotation. This can add power to your swing and help you achieve the handicap you're looking for. Unhinge your wrists just before impact. Your wrists will be hinged or cocked on the backswing. Aim to maintain this hinged position of your wrists as long as possible to develop a stronger release. You shouldn't unlock your wrists on the downswing until just before the club hits the ball. Fully extend your arms after hitting the ball. To add more power to your golf swing, you should aim to extend through the ball. Rather than stopping your arm movement after impact, follow through with a full extension. Throw a medicine ball. Choose a medicine ball heavy enough to provide resistance when you throw it. Squat with your knees bent a bit further than they would be for your typical golf stance. Hold the medicine ball in both hands directly out in front of yourself. Rotate your hips as hard and fast as you can and release the ball. Don't rotate your shoulders during this exercise. Exercise with a resistance band. Attach a resistance band to something stable that will not move. Face away from the object anchoring the band and hold the band in your left hand, directly behind you. Get into your usual golf stance. Using an explosive motion, pull the band forward, then let it return to its original position slowly. Repeat using both hands, rather than only your left. Stand farther away from what is holding the band to increase the resistance. Try a woodblock drill. Take your normal golf stance. Place a woodblock, book, or another flat object weighing between 2 and 5 lbs (0.91 and 2.3 kg) directly behind your club. Push the woodblock (or other object) back on the takeaway with the head of your club. This creates extra effort, which adds pressure on your feet. Do this drill 100 times per day to increase the power of your golf swing. Swing a golf club shaft. Remove the head from an old golf club. Take your usual golf stance. Practice swinging the golf club shaft as you normally would. Because the club is lighter without the head, the reaction time of your muscles will increase and you'll maximize your swing speed at the point of impact. for you. Choose the right club The best golf club will depend on the shot as well as your personal style. Generally, woods, including drivers, are used for long-distance shots. Irons are used for shots on the fairway , while wedges are used for shorter approach shots. Putters are used for getting the golf ball into the hole. Take a golf lesson. You can hit as many balls as you want, but unless you are correcting your technique, your game won't improve much. Take a golf lesson with a reputable professional who can analyze your stance and swing. You need to receive specific feedback so that you know what to change. They'll help you make adjustments that will add more power to your golf swing. Practice deliberately. Once you've taken a lesson with a golf pro, you'll know exactly what you need to work on. Follow this personalized plan to improve the areas that you need to work on. Push yourself just beyond your abilities and keep at it, even if you continually hit bad shots. Focus on improving your technique, and keep trying. | Keep your right foot ahead of your left, if you’re right-handed. Turn your left foot out 45 degrees. Brace your right knee. Keep your weight on the balls of your feet. Keep a light grip on the club. Form a wider swing arc. Let your feet lead the downswing. Unhinge your wrists just before impact. Fully extend your arms after hitting the ball. Throw a medicine ball. Exercise with a resistance band. Try a woodblock drill. Swing a golf club shaft. for you. Take a golf lesson. Practice deliberately. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Play-with-a-Chihuahua | How to Play with a Chihuahua | To play with your chihuahua, teach it to play fetch by throwing a toy and saying "Fetch" when it brings it back to you. You could also play hide and seek by telling your chihuahua to stay. Then, hide somewhere in your house and call your dog's name. Alternatively, try a tug-o-war with your dog by pulling on a rope or a toy while it pulls on the other end. Make sure to use a toy that's small enough for your dog's mouth. Additionally, get down on the floor while playing with your dog to keep it from hurting its neck. | Play hide and seek. You can play hide and seek with multiple people and multiple dogs if you want, or you can play it alone with just your chihuahua. First, tell your chihuahua to stay in one place (he'll need to know this command) and then go hide somewhere in your house. Once you're hiding, call your chihuahua's name so he'll come find you. You may need to say your chihuahua's name a couple of times if they aren't used to the game yet. If your chihuahua doesn't know the stay command, or isn't good at it, you might need another person to hold him in one spot while you hide. Once your hidden, that person can let him go and he'll come find you. Make sure you only hide in place where your chihuahua can get to or is allowed. Teach your chihuahua to help clean up. If your chihuahua has a lot of toys, chances are they end up all over the house throughout the day. A great game to play with your chihuahua at the end of each day is to have him fetch their toys and put them away in the toy box. Such a game will require some training in order for your chihuahua to learn certain commands. For example, you may want to use the command “clean-up” to indicate your chihuahua needs to find all the toys and bring them to you. Another example is to teach your chihuahua a command, like “in the basket” to tell your chihuahua they need to place each toy in the toy box. Have a tug-o-war with your chihuahua. Use a rope (there are rope toys of all sizes specifically made for dogs) or another favourite toy, pulling it at the same time as your chihuahua. Your chihuahua will then tug on the toy to try to get it away from you. Get down to floor level and tug horizontally so your chihuahua's neck remains in a straight line. Avoid tugging upwards, which can yank their neck and be uncomfortable. If you have more than one chihuahua, you might even be able to teach them to play tug-o-war with each other. Or they might just figure it out themselves when they both want to play with the same toy at the same time! Get your chihuahua to play fetch. Fetch is a game that comes naturally to some dogs due to their instincts; chihuahuas are one of those breeds. When you throw a toy to your chihuahua, they may instinctively go get that toy and bring it back to you. If they do this, use the word “fetch” while he's bringing the toy back so they begin to associate the command with the action he's performing. Eventually, he'll understand that when you throw a toy and say “fetch,” he's supposed to bring the toy to you. While in training, your chihuahua may not always bring the toy back to you when you throw it. If they don't bring it back to you, and instead you have to go get it, remember not to say the command “fetch." Make time to play with your chihuahua every day. Chihuahuas, in general, are energetic. If they do not have structured playtime, they'll usually attempt to entertain themselves in a way that may be distractive or frustrating to you as a human. In order to make sure your chihuahua has some playtime to work off some of their excess energy, and to make sure you have time to interact with him, schedule time to play with him every day. It is best to make this playtime the same time every day. Your chihuahua will learn what time is playtime and will come to expect it. This playtime should be dedicated to your dog, which means you don't get distracted by other activities you may also need to do. This might also be a great time every day to take your chihuahua outside, maybe into your backyard, where you can chase him or have him play fetch with plenty of room. Walk your chihuahua every day. Think of your daily walk with your chihuahua as both good for you and for him. It gives you a 30 minute walk outside every day, and it gives him a chance to work off some energy. To make things interesting, don't walk the same route every day, change it up. A 30 minute walk is likely long enough for your chihuahua. Unlike larger dogs, your chihuahua will not be able to go jogging or hiking with you. You can, however, carry your chihuahua with you in a dog carrier that's also a backpack or even a stroller. Allow your chihuahua a large area to run around. Because the inside of your house or apartment may be too small, and may have a lot of breakable items, you will probably want to keep the energy level of play inside at a much lower level than outside. Every now and again, take your chihuahua outside to a place where you can take off their leash and allow him to run around all they want. In an ideal situation, this could be your backyard. But if you don't have a large enough yard, or you don't have a yard at all, you might want to consider a dog park or fenced area where you know it's safe. Be careful where you let your chihuahua off their leash. Some cities and municipalities may have bylaws regarding where dogs can be allowed off-leash. Not to mention some open areas or even dog parks may have large, aggressive dogs also off-leash that may harass or injure your chihuahua. You may also want to consider doggy daycare for your chihuahua. Doggy daycares are great in that they keep your dog entertained all day while you're at work. That means your dog isn't getting into trouble in an empty house and he's burning off energy before you get home. Some doggy daycares have large indoor and outdoor play areas where the dogs can run around and play with each other. Ensure your chihuahua’s toys are small enough for their mouth. Chihuahuas are small and so are their mouths. As such, most regular-sized dog toys are too big for them to hold onto with their mouths. This means you may have to be careful about the size of the toys you buy your chihuahua. One great option is to get him stuffed toys rather than plastic or hard toys. Stuffed toys are easy for your chihuahua to crush and put in their mouth, and they're quite light for him to carry around. If you can't find any appropriately-sized dog toys, try looking at cat toys in a pet store in your area. These toys are great for him to use when you aren't able to play with him. The toys can keep him entertained so they hopefully don't play with breakable household items instead! Use a harness on your chihuahua instead of a collar. While you may still want to get your chihuahua a collar to put tags on, don't use their collar for their leash. Instead, buy your chihuahua a small harness to use with their leash. Harnesses go around their chest and mid-section rather than their neck. Being as chihuahuas are so small, it can be easy to accidentally pull too hard on the leash and hurt ther neck if their leash is only attached to a collar. It might take a couple tries for your chihuahua to get used to wearing a harness. If required, leave the harness on your chihuahua for slightly longer periods of time each day until he's used to it. It's also good to be careful about the size and weight of the leash you use with your chihuahua. Buy the lightest leash you can as the extra weight of a heavy leash can also cause your chihuahua trouble when you're taking him for a walk. Consider getting your chihuahua a friend. Chihuahuas don't often get along with other dogs or animals, unless it's another chihuahua. If you don't have enough time to keep your chihuahua entertained, or you don't like leaving him alone while you're at work, one option is to get another chihuahua. Two or more chihuahuas will keep each other company and will play with each other when you aren't able to. Getting a second chihuahua isn't an excuse for ignoring your dogs. You still need to make time in your schedule to play and walk both dogs on a regular basis. Spend some quiet time with your chihuahua. Playing and running around is great for you and your chihuahua, but it's also a great idea to have quiet time with him on a regular basis. This quiet time can be spent simply cuddling on the couch, or you can use it to brush or groom him as needed. Quiet time is great to have just before you plan to go to bed. Not only will it help you relax and unwind, it will help get your chihuahua into a relaxed and sleepy state so everyone can go to bed without any disruptions. Get an exercise pen for your chihuahua. You can find all sorts of exercise pens for dogs and other small animals at pets stores and online. They come in different sizes and are made of different materials. One great option is to get an exercise pen that is just fencing with no bottom. This type of pen can be easily folded up and stored, but can also be easily placed inside or outside your house. Depending on what you and your chihuahua are doing, you can put your dog inside the pen to give him limited space to play, to give him a safe place to play, or even to give him a way to be close to you if you don't want him underfoot. Buy your chihuahua a sweater or two. Chihuahuas may be energetic dogs, but they are very small and can get cold very easily. You, as a human, may feel fine at a certain temperature, but that same temperature may be making your dog shiver. In order to make him more comfortable and warm, especially when he's outside with you, you may want to consider buying your chihuahua a sweater or coat. If your chihuahua doesn't like their sweater at first, only keep it on him for a short period of time. Over a few days or weeks, increase the amount of time they wear the sweater until they get used to it. Consider getting your chihuahua a set of doggy stairs. Doggy stairs are small staircases that help your dog go from the floor to either the bed or the couch without jumping. In some cases, your chihuahua may not be capable of jumping the distance and this will be the only way for him to get up on the couch or bed. In other cases, this might help save your furniture from scratches if they use their claws to pull himself up. Dogs stairs come in all types, including set stairs that are carpeted and plastic stairs that fold up. You can even make your own stairs using wood or other materials, or just place boxes or bins in increasing height so they can use them to climb. Make sure your chihuahua has their own bed. Chihuahuas love sleeping in the softest and most comfortable place they can find. As such, getting your chihuahua their own doggy bed is a great idea. You can even get your chihuahua more than one bed — one for your bedroom and another for your living room (or wherever you spend time during the day). When you're in those particular rooms, your chihuahua will have a nice comfy place to curl up and sleep while keeping you company. Doggy beds, in general, are also good because they can usually be cleaned a lot easier than your couch. Chihuahuas, even though they're small, shed a lot. | Play hide and seek. Teach your chihuahua to help clean up. Have a tug-o-war with your chihuahua. Get your chihuahua to play fetch. Make time to play with your chihuahua every day. Walk your chihuahua every day. Allow your chihuahua a large area to run around. Ensure your chihuahua’s toys are small enough for their mouth. Use a harness on your chihuahua instead of a collar. Consider getting your chihuahua a friend. Spend some quiet time with your chihuahua. Get an exercise pen for your chihuahua. Buy your chihuahua a sweater or two. Consider getting your chihuahua a set of doggy stairs. Make sure your chihuahua has their own bed. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cope-with-Teeth-Whitening-Sensitivity | How to Cope with Teeth Whitening Sensitivity | To cope with teeth whitening sensitivity, avoid very hot or cold drinks and food for the first 24-48 hours after treatment. Chew sugar-free gum starting right after your treatment, and switch to a new piece every 10 minutes, as this may help lessen your sensitivity right away. Also, choose toothpaste and mouthwash that contains fluoride to remineralize your teeth, which may help them be less sensitive over time, and use a soft-bristled toothbrush to avoid irritating your teeth more. | Brush with a desensitizing toothpaste. At least 10 days before your treatment, start brushing three times a day with a desensitizing toothpaste. Sensodyne and Colgate Sensitive are two good options. These toothpastes help to block pain signals from the tooth surface to the inner nerve. Look for GC Tooth Mousse, which has an active ingredient called CPP ACP that works very well to remineralize enamel. Use a soft-bristled toothbrush to rub the toothpaste into the teeth in a circular motion (not back and forth). Ideally, you should brush your teeth for three minutes each session. Fluoride and desensitizing agents work even better if you do not rinse your mouth right away. Leave the toothpaste to act on your teeth for another three minutes before rinsing. Apply a desensitizing gel, liquid, or paste. Wipe your teeth so that they are dry. Then get a clean cotton swab. Place a large dot of the product on the tip of the swab and rub it onto the surface of your teeth. Leave the product on your teeth for the recommended length of time before rinsing your mouth out with water. These products usually contain potassium nitrate, which numbs the nerves in the teeth, limiting sensitivity. Two good products include AcquaSeal and Ultra EZ which can be purchased at the drugstore. You can also use them both before and after your whitening treatment. Fill the whitening tray with desensitizing gel. About 30 minutes before your treatment, fill the tray with a desensitizing gel and place it on your teeth. When you are ready to begin your treatment simply take out the tray, rinse it out, and refill it with the bleaching agent. You will also want to rinse out your mouth to remove any gel residue. Make sure the whitening tray fits properly — it should only cover your teeth, not your gums. If it reaches the gums, some of the whitening agent could come in contact with them, causing increased sensitivity or even slight burns, which can be seen as a white contour along the gum line. Take pain medication before your treatment. About an hour before treatment take the suggested dosage of an anti-inflammatory medication, such as Advil or Aleve. Taking the medication this early allows it to kick in and start working before your procedure. You can continue the medication after the treatment, should you experience any lingering sensitivity. If you are unsure as to what medications to take, ask your dentist for a recommendation. In general ibuprofen works well on all types of teeth sensitivity. Choose an at-home whitening treatment kit. Most at-home teeth whitening kits use carbamide peroxide as the main bleaching ingredient. Peroxide is effective, but it can irritate the nerve endings of your teeth and cause sensitivity. Choose an in-home kit that contains a low peroxide level of 5 – 6%. A higher peroxide dose will not guarantee effectiveness and might cause a great deal of pain. There are a wide variety of at-home whitening options: strips, paint-ons, mouth trays with gel, whitening toothpaste, and even whitening gum and mouthwash. If you have any concerns about the safety of these products, ask your dentist. If you do choose a tray-based whitening method, make sure that the tray fits securely over your teeth. If it is loose the gel can leak out and create widespread gum irritation and increased sensitivity. Apply the recommended amount of whitening agent and no more. It may be tempting to use more gel to get quicker, whiter results. Don't do it. Instead, follow the directions carefully and make the health of your mouth the priority. Using too much agent can cause gum irritation and even vomiting if swallowed. Leave the whitening product on for the suggested time. Extending the time beyond the package recommendations will not make your teeth any brighter or whiter. It will, however, possibly erode your tooth enamel, causing future issues with sensitivity and decay caused by fractures in the enamel. The recommended length of time will generally depend on the percentage of active peroxide, which varies from product to product. Avoid hot and cold drinks. For the first 24 – 48 hours after treatment your teeth will feel very sensitive, regardless of your previous dental history. It is best to avoid drinks that are either too hot or too cold. Try to drink and eat foods at room temperature. For example, instead of eating ice cream you might try some room temperature gelatin. Even if you feel no pain after your procedure, it is best to be cautious and avoid exposing your teeth to extreme temperatures. It is good if you can avoid acidic foods and drinks as well. Soft drinks and citrus juices can irritate and inflame a healing mouth. You should also avoid smoking and drinking or eating colored foods, so as not to stain the enamel, which is very vulnerable for the first 48 hours. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. It is always advisable to use a soft-bristled brush on your teeth before and after whitening procedures. Brush in a gentle circular motion. The soft bristles will clean your teeth without irritating the surface of your teeth. You will want to wait 30 minutes to an hour after your treatment before brushing your teeth. In the meantime, you can rinse your mouth out with water, if desired. When rinsing and brushing, use lukewarm water to minimize your discomfort. If you are not comfortable brushing, you can place some toothpaste on a cotton swab and apply a thin layer to your teeth before going to bed. This will give you the benefit of fluoride without the irritation. Use products that contain fluoride to remineralize the teeth. Particular brands of toothpaste and mouthwashes contain varying degrees of fluoride. It is believed that fluoride helps to block the pain signals from your oral nerves, leading to less sensitivity. If you use fluoride, try not to eat anything for 30 minutes as this will give it more time to take effect. Apply a fluoride gel over your teeth for five minutes and do not swallow. This will also help to increase salivary flow for a better remineralization of the enamel. Some good examples of mouthwashes and rinses that contain fluoride include: Listerine Fluoride Defense, Fluoride Listerine, Colgate Neutrafluor and Colgate Fluorigard. Chew a pack of sugar-free gum. Immediately after your treatment, pull out your pack of sugar-free gum. Begin chewing a single piece at a time. Every 10 minutes spit out the chewed piece and begin working on a new one. Do this until you go through the whole pack. This cycle is believed to lessen tooth sensitivity after whitening treatments. Avoid this method if you have stomach problems or if you did not eat anything. Mastication (chewing) influences the release of the gastric acid in your stomach, increasing the risk of ulcers. Give your teeth a break between whitening treatments. It is generally okay to have one to two tray-based or dental office whitening procedures per year. Any more than that can compromise the integrity of your teeth and will increase sensitivity. Try to consider whitening as a serious procedure and not a regular part of your dental routine. If you are using whitening toothpastes or strips at home, try to cut back to every other day. This will give your teeth more time to recover in between treatments. Visit your dentist if the sensitivity persists. If your teeth continue to bother you more than 48 hours after your procedure, it's a good idea to make a dental appointment. Your dentist will take a close look at your teeth to determine whether the whitening amped up your sensitivity or if there is another underlying issue, such as a cavity. When you visit your dentist it may be helpful to bring along the packaging or the actual strips/toothpaste that you use to whiten at home. Your dentist may be able to recommend a better alternative. | Brush with a desensitizing toothpaste. Apply a desensitizing gel, liquid, or paste. Fill the whitening tray with desensitizing gel. Take pain medication before your treatment. Choose an at-home whitening treatment kit. Apply the recommended amount of whitening agent and no more. Leave the whitening product on for the suggested time. Avoid hot and cold drinks. Brush your teeth with a soft-bristled toothbrush. Use products that contain fluoride to remineralize the teeth. Chew a pack of sugar-free gum. Give your teeth a break between whitening treatments. Visit your dentist if the sensitivity persists. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-a-Dog-from-Licking-Everything | How to Stop a Dog from Licking Everything | If you can't get your dog to stop licking everything, try interrupting it by banging something loudly and telling it, “No” whenever you catch it licking something it shouldn't. With repetition, your dog will learn not to lick things, since it'll associate licking with stress. You can also pick your dog up and move it to a different room to reinforce that it shouldn't be licking something. If there are particular objects your dog is licking, try spraying them with a taste deterrent like bitter apple, which will stop your dog licking even when you're not around. Another thing you can do is get a toy or bone for your dog to lick, so it's not as likely to lick furniture or other objects around the house. | Toss a ball or a toy. When you see your dog licking or sucking fabric, take their favorite toy and throw it. Instead of licking the furniture, they will start to play. If you do this often, they will start using their toys to get their licking urges out instead of the furniture. Give your dog a command. It's a little hard to keep licking when you're supposed to do something your master or mistress commands. Telling your dog to "Sit!" or "Lie down!" will stop them momentarily. Interrupt your dog. Every time you catch them licking, bang something loudly and yell "No!" very authoritatively. Don't be inconsistent - every single time you catch them, you must respond this way so that they come to associate the licking with an unpleasant noise and your disapproval. Move the dog away from the spot. If you have a small dog or a puppy, you can pick them up and take them to a different room. This is especially effective if they seem to be licking the same spot over and over again. This will reinforce that they should not be licking at that spot. Pull away if your dog is licking you. Licking can be a social activity for dogs, which humans often reinforce with praise. Some people, however, may not find it so endearing. If you want to stop your dog from licking you or other people, you will have to show them that licking is not an acceptable behavior. Every time they lick you, step away. If you are sitting, stand up and leave the room for a minute. After a while, they will learn that licking will not earn them attention. Purchase an Elizabethan collar. If your dog had surgery, you will need to stop them from licking or chewing their stitches. Elizabethan collars are the plastic cones that dogs wear after surgery. If your dog's licking is caused by a medical procedure, have them wear the cone until they are fully healed. Do not make your dog wear the cone to prevent general licking unless directed to do so by a vet. Dogs find the cone uncomfortable. Only use it for a short period of time. Spray furniture with a taste deterrent. Dogs won't lick objects if they taste unpleasant to them. You can find a variety of sprays that will coat your furniture and rugs so that they give off a bad taste. Bitter apple spray is a common repellent. Test the spray on a small part of your fabric or wood furniture first to make sure that it won't stain. You may need to reapply the deterrent every two to four weeks. When sitting down with your dog, you can put a small amount of hot sauce or lemon on your skin to deter them from licking you. Wash it off immediately afterwards. Give the dog a toy when they are more likely to lick. If you notice that your dog is licking at certain times of the day, it can be a signal for you to give them the simulation they need. For example, you may notice that your dog licks you when you sit down to watch TV at night. Whenever you sit down on the couch, give them a toy or bone that will distract them for that period of time. You can fill a Kong type toy with peanut butter or kibble.They will spend their time trying to lick the food out instead of licking the furniture. Another idea is to make some ice cubes flavored with chicken or beef broth. Your dog will suck on these until they melt. Give the dog plenty of exercise. Anxiety and obsessive behaviors can cause licking, especially if you notice the dog licking themselves. Even if you have a yard for them to run in, take them on walks at least once or twice a day. If you're gone for work during the day, try to come home during lunch, or ask a friend to walk the dog in the middle of the day. These can ease the underlying behaviors behind licking. Praise your dog when they are licking an appropriate toy. If you catch them licking, distract them with a chew toy or ball. Once they have taken it into their mouth, praise them. Make sure that the toy is in their mouth or that they are licking the toy before you praise them. You are aiming to teach your dog to only lick certain objects. Punish only when you've caught them in the act. Dogs only understand that they are being corrected for behavior committed in the current moment. Note any changes in your living situation. Your dog may be licking to act out or because of stress caused by changes. Is there a new dog in the house, or even a new pet or baby? Is the dog not getting its usual amount of daily attention? It may be as simple as restoring a routine or spending more time with your dog. Give the dog extra attention until normalcy is restored. Determine if your dog was weaned too early. Sucking and licking blankets and furniture can be a sign that the dog was weaned too early. It is a common feature in bottle-raised puppies. Early intervention is necessary to prevent it from becoming a life-long habit. You can try: Giving the puppy a variety of other toys to chew and play with. Designating a blanket for them to suck on. Praise them when they use this blanket and only this blanket. Physically moving them away from the object. Provide entertainment while you are away. If your pet is licking furniture while you are out, it could be separation anxiety. Leave a TV or radio on while you leave. Make sure they have plenty of toys to play with while you are gone. Before you leave, give them a toy filled with treats or peanut butter. They will spend time trying to lick out the peanut butter and may forget that you left them at all. Hire a behaviorist. Compulsive behaviors can be difficult to break without the proper training. Try to find a Certified Applied Animal Behaviorist (CAAB), a board-certified veterinary behaviorist, or a Certified Professional Dog Trainer (CPDT). They will be able to find the root of your dog's behaviors while practicing safe methods to treat the habit. See your vet. If all else fails, talk to the expert. Your dog's licking could be the result of allergies, fleas, or obsessive compulsive disorder. While it is possible to medicate a dog for such behavior, this should be treated as a last resort and it's much better to find some behavioral changing methods first. Note how often your dog licks. Dogs often mouth, lick, or suck things to feel their way around the world. Licking themselves or various objects around the house a few times a day is normal. Excessive licking, however, may be a compulsion. If they are sitting at the same spot for long periods of time or if you cannot distract them from their licking, they may have a compulsive disorder. Pay attention to where they lick. Where the dog licks is an important clue to what is causing their problem. Watch to see if they are licking themselves or furniture. Licking or sucking blankets or bedding may be a result of early weaning. Furniture licking may be a sign of stress, anxiety, or compulsive behavior. Your dog may not have enough stimulation, or they may have other behavioral issues. Licking their anal area could mean that your dog has allergies or a problem with their anal glands. Licking their feet or legs until they lose hair may be Acral Lick Dermatitis. Licking their genital area frequently is normal behavior. As it is harmless, you should not try to correct it. Identify damage done by licking. You may notice wet spots on your furniture or places where the fabric has worn thin because of excessive licking. Wood varnish may have disappeared, or there may be faint teeth marks on a chair leg. Before you take action, try to catch your dog in the act. Determine if the dog was really causing the damage before you try to correct the behavior. | Toss a ball or a toy. Give your dog a command. Interrupt your dog. Move the dog away from the spot. Pull away if your dog is licking you. Purchase an Elizabethan collar. Spray furniture with a taste deterrent. Give the dog a toy when they are more likely to lick. Give the dog plenty of exercise. Praise your dog when they are licking an appropriate toy. Note any changes in your living situation. Determine if your dog was weaned too early. Provide entertainment while you are away. Hire a behaviorist. See your vet. Note how often your dog licks. Pay attention to where they lick. Identify damage done by licking. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Block-Porn-on-Android | How to Block Porn on Android | To block porn on your Android by enabling SafeSearch, start by opening Google Chrome and the Search Settings page. From here, tap the “Filter explicit results” checkbox to enable the SafeSearch filter, which blocks mature content in Chrome. After you check the box, scroll down and click “Save” to enable your new settings. Alternatively, use the SPIN safe browser to block porn on your Android by opening the Google Play store and tapping the search bar. Then, type “spin browser” into the search bar and click “Install” when the app appears. When you're prompted, click “Accept” and “Open” to launch the browser. | Open Google Chrome . Tap the Chrome app icon, which resembles a red, yellow, green, and blue sphere. Open the Search Settings page. Go to https://www.google.com/preferences in the Chrome address bar at the top of the page. Tap the "Filter explicit results" checkbox. It's near the top of the screen. This will enable the SafeSearch filter, which blocks mature content up to and including pornography, in Chrome. Scroll down and tap Save. This blue button is at the bottom of the page. Doing so saves your settings and reloads the Google search page. Open the Google Play Store. Tap the Google Play Store app icon, which resembles a multicolored triangle, to do so. SPIN Safe Browser is an app which prevents sexually explicit content (among other age-restricted content) from appearing in search results. Tap the search bar. It's at the top of the screen. Doing so brings up your Android's on-screen keyboard. Search for the SPIN Safe Browser app. Type spin browser into the search bar, then tap SPIN Safe Browser in the drop-down menu. Tap INSTALL. It's near the top of the screen. Tap ACCEPT when prompted. Doing so will prompt the SPIN Safe Browser app to begin installing. Open the SPIN Safe Browser. Tap OPEN in the Google Play Store, or tap the SPIN Safe Browser app icon. Browse without worrying about porn. Typing any search query that would usually produce explicit results into the SPIN Browser search bar will only show SafeSearch-approved results, meaning that porn sites won't even appear as links or images. Keep in mind that porn will still be accessible in other browsers such as Google Chrome, Firefox, and so on. Removing these browsers from the Android in question will limit your options for viewing porn. Open the Google app. Tap the Google app icon, which resembles a red, yellow, green, and blue "G". Tap ☰. It's in the bottom-right corner of the screen. A menu will appear. Tap Settings. You'll find it near the bottom of the menu. Tap Accounts & privacy. This option is near the middle of the screen. Selecting it opens a menu. Tap the grey "SafeSearch filter" switch . It will turn blue {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/2\/28\/Android7switchon.png","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/28\/Android7switchon.png\/35px-Android7switchon.png","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":394,"bigWidth":"35","bigHeight":"30","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>I edited this screenshot of an Android icon.\n<\/p><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"http:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a><br>\n<\/p><\/div>"}. From this point on, the Google app will filter out sexually explicit search results. Make sure that you qualify to use Family Link. You must meet the following criteria before you can use Family Link: Your kid must be under 13 years old. You can also just create a Google Account for a sub-13-year-old if you want to use Family Link for a teenager. Your kid's phone or tablet must use Android Nougat (Android 7.0) or higher. You must have a Google Account. You must live in a supported area. Supported areas include Argentina, Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Ireland, Japan, Mexico, New Zealand, United Kingdom, and United States. Download the Family Link app on your Android. Be sure to do this on the Android from which you want to control another Android, not on the Android on which you want to block porn. Open the {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/1\/1e\/Androidgoogleplay.png","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/1e\/Androidgoogleplay.png\/26px-Androidgoogleplay.png","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":531,"bigWidth":"26","bigHeight":"30","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>I edited this screenshot of an Android icon\n<\/p><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"http:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fair_use\">Fair Use<\/a><br>\n<\/p><\/div>"} Google Play Store , then do the following: Tap the search bar. Type in family link Tap Google Family Link Tap INSTALL Tap ACCEPT when prompted. Open Family Link. Tap OPEN in the Google Play Store, or tap the Family Link app icon. The Family Link app will open to the introduction screen. Tap three times. This icon is at the bottom of the screen. Doing so will take you to the beginning of the Family Link setup process. Tap GET STARTED. You'll see this option at the bottom of the screen. Tap START. It's in the bottom-right corner of the screen. Answer the questions. In order to set up Family Link on your Android, you'll have to select the correct answers by doing the following in the lower-right corner of the screen: Tap YES Tap YES Tap YES, I AGREE Tap NEXT twice. This will take you to the account creation section. Create a Google Account for your kid. Unfortunately, even if your kid already has a Google Account, you'll have to create a new one for them. Do the following: Enter your kid's name and tap NEXT Enter your kid's date of birth and tap NEXT Enter an email address for your kid and tap NEXT Enter a password for your kid and tap NEXT twice. Check the "I agree" box, then tap AGREE Enter your card details for the $0.01 confirmation transaction, then tap ACCEPT Connect the kid's phone to your Family Link account. Tap NEXT twice, then follow the on-screen instructions to set up your kid's phone with Family Link. Once you've finished adding the kid's phone to Family Link, you can proceed. Change app permissions. Each Android phone comes with a certain set of pre-installed apps; once you're finished setting up Family Link, you'll be prompted to allow or block each app before the setup process is complete. Blocking apps such as Google Play Music will help moderate the content that your kid can access. Apps like YouTube and Android Pay are blocked by default as you must be over 13 years old to use them. Enable SafeSearch for browsers. Like most Android phones, your kid's phone most likely has up to three built-in browsers: Google Chrome, Google Search, and a stock "Web" or "Internet" browser. You can enable SafeSearch—a filter which blocks pornography—by doing the following for each browser: Select the app in question (e.g., Google Chrome ). Tap Permissions Find and tap the SafeSearch option. Finish setting up Family Link. Once you're done with the setup process, your child will have an Android phone that cannot access pornography, mature content, or unapproved apps without your explicit permission. | Open Google Chrome . Open the Search Settings page. Tap the "Filter explicit results" checkbox. Scroll down and tap Save. Open the Google Play Store. Tap the search bar. Search for the SPIN Safe Browser app. Tap INSTALL. Tap ACCEPT when prompted. Open the SPIN Safe Browser. Browse without worrying about porn. Open the Google app. Tap ☰. Tap Settings. Tap Accounts & privacy. Tap the grey "SafeSearch filter" switch . Make sure that you qualify to use Family Link. Download the Family Link app on your Android. Open Family Link. Tap three times. Tap GET STARTED. Tap START. Answer the questions. Tap NEXT twice. Create a Google Account for your kid. Connect the kid's phone to your Family Link account. Change app permissions. Enable SafeSearch for browsers. Finish setting up Family Link. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Your-Ears | How to Clean Your Ears | The easiest way to clean your ears is to mix warm water and 3% hydrogen peroxide. Tilt your head and pour the solution into your ear slowly. If you hear fizzing or popping, it's working! After 5 minutes, drain the solution by turning your head to the side. Rinse your ear by gently squirting lukewarm water into your ear canal, then tilt your head over a towel to drain. | Be sure you don't have an ear infection or a perforated eardrum. Cleaning your ears under these circumstances can be extremely dangerous, so do not use this method if you even suspect a problem. Instead, schedule a medical appointment immediately. Symptoms of an ear infection include: Fever. Vomiting or diarrhea. Green or yellow drainage from the ears. Persistent and severe ear pain. Make your own wax-softening solution. You can purchase a carbamide peroxide cleaning solution at your local pharmacy, or you can make your own. Combine warm water with one of the following and mix well: A teaspoon or two of 3-4% hydrogen peroxide solution A teaspoon or two of mineral oil A teaspoon or two of glycerin Prepare an applicator (optional). You can simply pour the solution into your ear from the bowl if you don't have an applicator on-hand. However, if you do have one around, it can make the process a little tidier and easier. Use a large plastic syringe with a plastic tip, a rubber bulb syringe, or even an eyedropper. Fill the applicator with the solution. Draw up enough so that the applicator is more than halfway full. Tilt your head to the side. The cleaning process will work better if your ear canal is as close to vertical as possible. Allow the ear you're cleaning to face upward. Lie down on your side, if you can. Just be sure to put some towels under your head to catch any excess solution. Put the solution slowly into your ear. Make sure the solution is room-temperature. Then, pour it from the bowl into your ear, or position the end of the applicator a few inches above ( not in) the ear canal and squeeze 5-10 drops into each ear. If you used hydrogen peroxide, you may hear a fizzing or popping sound. Don't worry, this is totally normal! If you can, you might want to ask another person to do this step for you. It'll be easier for him or her to make sure the solution is actually getting into your ear. Allow the solution to work for a few minutes. Keep your head tilted to the side and give the solution some time to break up the earwax. Five to 10 minutes should be sufficient. If you used hydrogen peroxide, allow the solution to work until you no longer hear fizzing or popping. Drain the fluid. Hold an empty bowl under your ear, or put a cotton ball up to the outside of your ear. Tilt your head slowly, and allow the liquid to drain out. Be careful that you don't push the cotton swab into your ear — simply hold it lightly against the outside of the ear, so it's positioned to catch the fluid. You can use this solution up to 2 times a day for up to 4 days to soften the wax prior to removal. Flush your ears. After the wax has softened, use a rubber bulb syringe to flush out loosened earwax. Gently squirt lukewarm water (at body temperature—98.6°F (37°C) into your ear canal. For very stubborn wax or for people with very small ear canals, an enema bottle filled with clean, warm water may work better than a bulb syringe. Pull on the earlobe out and up to open up the ear canal. Do this over the sink, tub, or other container: it's a messy operation, and you may flush chunks of earwax out. Irrigate your ears again. With excessive buildup, it may be necessary to repeat the process twice a day for no more than four to five days. Don't drain your ears too often. Doing so could damage your eardrum and the sensitive skin in your ear canal. Dry your ears. When you're done flushing, place a towel over your ear, and tilt your head to the other side to drain the water. Gently pat the outside of your ear with a towel, then repeat the process on the other ear. If this process does not completely remove your ear way, follow up with a healthcare professional within 3-5 days for irrigation. Visit your doctor. If you can't clear the blockage on your own, make an appointment with a medical professional. He or she can tell you in a couple seconds if you have a blockage, and perform a quick procedure to flush your ears. You might be experiencing the following symptoms: Persistent earaches. Muffled hearing. A feeling of fullness in your ear. Use an over-the-counter solution. To manage long-term earwax problems, your doctor may suggest using over-the-counter solutions containing carbamide peroxide every four to eight weeks. Brands using carbamide peroxide include Murine, Debrox, Auro, Mack's, and GoodSense. Your doctor may also suggest prescription ear drops containing trolamine polypeptide oleate , or Cerumenex. Relax. The doctor may flush your ears with a water pick or bulb-type syringe to clean out smaller blockages ( lavage ), or may remove larger blockages in part with an instrument called a curette or by using suction. It doesn't hurt at all, and in just a few minutes, your ears will be safely and thoroughly cleaned—and your hearing will be startlingly better. See a specialist, if necessary. Talk to your doctor or an ear, nose and throat specialist (ENT) if you have frequent and troublesome buildups of earwax. | Be sure you don't have an ear infection or a perforated eardrum. Make your own wax-softening solution. Prepare an applicator (optional). Tilt your head to the side. Put the solution slowly into your ear. Allow the solution to work for a few minutes. Drain the fluid. Flush your ears. Irrigate your ears again. Dry your ears. Visit your doctor. Use an over-the-counter solution. Relax. See a specialist, if necessary. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-an-Instrument | How to Choose an Instrument | To choose an instrument, start by considering which instruments you feel drawn to or that stand out to you when you're listening to music. If you gravitate toward modern music genres like rock and country, a few popular options would be piano, guitar, and bass guitar. You can also go with a classical instrument, such as a violin or cello, or a brass instrument, like a trumpet or trombone, if you prefer classical or orchestral music. Be sure to experiment with a few different options before committing to one instrument! | Start early with piano. Piano is a common starter instrument because it's easy to really see the music. Common in many cultures and styles of music, piano or keyboard is an excellent choice if you want to learn an instrument, regardless of whether you're young or old. Piano variations you'll be able to add to your repertoire later might include: Organ Accordion Synthesizer Harpsichord Harmonium Rock out on a guitar. From classical to death metal, learning to play guitar opens all kinds of doors into new musics and styles. It's had an impact on pop culture more than probably any other instrument, and is a super-popular choice for first-timers everywhere. Pick up an acoustic guitar to stay mobile, or check out its electric cousin to get started bumming out your neighbors and playing heady licks. Once you've got guitar basics mastered, you could also add other instruments to your six-string canon: Bass guitar Mandolin Banjo Harp Dulcimer Consider picking up a classical instrument. One of the most viable careers in music performance revolves around playing classical strings, in orchestral, string-quartet, or other settings. The instruments of the chamber might be right for you if you've got an interest in classical sounds. While they may have a stuffy reputation, these are still commonly used in folk musics and other settings all around the world. The classical strings include: Violin. This is generally seen as the "lead" instrument in the world of strings. It's got an excellent range, is easy to hold, and is sublimely expressive in a way that few other instruments can even try to be. Viola. Somewhat larger than a violin, it's deeper and darker in tone than the violin. If you have longer arms, and larger hands, you might consider the viola rather than the violin. Cello. The cello is much larger than the violin and viola, and must be played sitting down, with the instrument between your knees. It has a rich, deep tone akin to a male human voice, and while it can't reach the heights of a violin, it is immensely lyrical. Double Bass. This is the lowest-sounding member of the violin family. In classical or chamber surroundings, it's most often played with a bow, and occasionally plucked for effect. In jazz or bluegrass (where you will often find a double bass), it's generally plucked and occasionally bowed for effect. Shake hands with a brass instrument. Both simple and complex, the brass family of instruments are basically long metal tubes that feature valves and buttons that alter the pitch. To play them, you buzz your lips inside a metal mouthpiece to create the sound. They're used in all types of concert bands and orchestras, jazz combos, marching bands, and as accompaniment to old-school R & B and soul music. Brass instruments include: Trumpet Trombone Tuba French horn Baritone Sousaphone Don't forget about the woodwinds. Like brass instruments, woodwinds are played by blowing into them. Unlike brass instruments, woodwinds are played through reeds that vibrate as you blow over them (except for the flute - it is a reedless instrument). Playing these instruments require developing stamina, because you are continually blowing into them. They make a variety of beautiful tones and are extremely versatile instruments to play jazz or classical music with. Woodwind instruments include: Flute , piccolo , or fife Saxophone Clarinet Oboe Bassoon Harmonica Get rhythm by taking up percussion. Keeping the time of most music groups is the job of the percussionists. In some bands, this will be provided on a kit drum, while other combos will feature a wider variety of instruments, banged on with mallets or hands or sticks. Percussion instruments include: The drum set Vibraphone, Marimba , and xylophone Glockenspiel Bells and Cymbals Congas and bongos Timpani Consider new music instruments. People are making music with more things than ever before. You may have seen that guy on the street corner, with 5 gallon (18.9 L) paint buckets and saucepan lids, tearing up the rhythm. Drums? Maybe. Percussion, certainly. Consider playing: iPad. If you have one, you probably know by now there are some truly amazing musical instruments that defy categorization. Tap on the screen and a voice emerges from a puddle of blue on a green background. Flip apps, and now you're playing a vintage '80s synth that cost $50,000 then, and $.99 now—and sounds better. Have you got a couple turntables? To be a great DJ takes a lot of skill and a lot of practice, and anybody who tells you that's not music is wrong. Check out this list. As you can see, there are more instruments than you can shake a rhythm stick at. Some of the difficult-to-categorize are listed below: Erhu (Chinese two-stringed fiddle) Guqin (Chinese stringed instrument) Pipa (Chinese 4-stringed instrument) Guzheng (Chinese instrument, kind of like a plucked piano) Sitar Dulcimer Koto (Japanese harp) Bag-pipes Ukulele English horn Pan flute/panpipes Bagpipes Ocarina Recorder Tin whistle Fife Quena Mellophone (a marching version of a horn) Alto horn Bugle Piccolo trumpet Flugelhorn Experiment with lots of different instruments before committing. Get your hands on a trumpet, guitar, or trombone, and make a few notes. It won't be music yet, but it'll give you some idea of whether or not the instrument is fun to play, and worth spending some time with. Typically, if you want to sign up for band or orchestra at your school, call-outs are regularly held during which the directors allow you to experiment with instruments and select one. Go to one of these call-outs and check out all the different kinds of instruments. Most instrument stores are excited to share their instruments with you and let you give them a shot. They might even be able to show you a few things. Look into your possibilities. If you're starting out in a school band, check and see what instruments the band includes. Most concert bands in schools have clarinets, flutes, saxophones, tubas, baritones, trombones, trumpets, and percussion as starter instruments, and let you advance to other instruments like oboe, bassoon, and horn later on. You can begin making your decision from the instruments that are available. You can also ask the director which instruments they are short of—he or she will be very grateful if you can fill an empty spot. Keep your options open. You may want to play the baritone sax, but the band already has three players. You may have to first start on the clarinet, then move to alto sax, and finally switch to bari when a slot opens up. Consider your size. If you're starting out in middle school, and smaller than the average student, a tuba or trombone may not be the right instrument for you. You could try trumpet or cornet instead. If you're younger or still losing teeth, you may find it hard to play some brass instruments because your teeth aren't very strong yet. If you have small hands or fingers, the bassoon may not be for you, although there are bassoons made for beginners with some keys for small hands. Think of how braces will affect your tone, especially for most brass. Find out whether you'll need them, or when any current braces will come off. Play what you like. When you listen to the radio, Spotify, or your friend's mix tape, what do you hear that instinctively perks you up? Do you find yourself thrumming along to the bassline, or do you go into wild air-guitar frenzies? Perhaps you should look into stringed instruments. Do you thrash the air-drums and beat your fingers on the table constantly? These are all great clues about what your "natural instrument" might be, and it involves hitting things with sticks, hands, or both! Play what will be practical for your situation. You may have a natural affinity for drums, but your parents have said, "No way—it's much too loud!" when you told them. Be creative—either suggest digital drums which you can only hear through headphones, or re-think your needs, and start with something softer and not as jarring, like a set of conga drums. Play drums in the school band, but practice at home with a rubber practice pad. Just pick one. While you can be very analytical about what to play, there's another thing to try that has a lot of benefits. Close your eyes (after reading this), and write down the first 5 instruments that come to your mind. Now, look at what you wrote. One of those picks is your instrument. The first one came straight off the top: it might be what you really want to play, or it might be just what you associate learning music with. With each successive pick, you focused more on what you wanted. By the fifth choice, you may have been digging for an answer. It's a safe bet that all would be instruments you would enjoy, but which is the best choice? It all depends on who you are, and how you're going to learn. | Start early with piano. Rock out on a guitar. Consider picking up a classical instrument. Shake hands with a brass instrument. Don't forget about the woodwinds. Get rhythm by taking up percussion. Consider new music instruments. Check out this list. Experiment with lots of different instruments before committing. Look into your possibilities. Keep your options open. Consider your size. Play what you like. Play what will be practical for your situation. Just pick one. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Gel-Nails-Off-Without-Acetone | How to Get Gel Nails Off Without Acetone | To get gel nails off without acetone, lift up part of the gel nail with your fingernail or a pair of tweezers, then pour water over the lifted edge and push the gel polish off. If the nail won't come off with water, cover it with olive oil or cuticle oil before sliding your nail under the gel nail to gently push it off. After you remove the nail, use a nail file to buff off any remaining gel residue. For an alternative method, fill a bowl with warm water, dish soap, and salt, and soak your hand for 15 to 20 minutes. When you're done soaking, dry your hands and remove the gel nails by peeling or filing them off. | Lift up part of the gel nail. Wait until the nails are already chipped. Find a loose spot and lift up part of the gel nail with your fingernail or a pair of tweezers. Waiting around a week or two before trying to peel off the gel nails will reduce the damage done to your natural nails, since the gel will have had time to loosen and chip off. Pour water over the lifted edge and push the gel polish off. Put your finger under lukewarm running water. Using your free hand, place a finger underneath the lifted gel nail and gently push it off your natural nail. Be patient and go slow so you won't damage the natural nail underneath. Use olive oil or cuticle oil if the nail won’t come off with water. If you are finding it difficult to peel the nail off under running water, try using olive oil or cuticle oil instead. Cover the gel nail and the fingernail you are using to push the gel nail off with oil. Then, slide your nail under the gel nail and gently push it off. Apply more oil as needed. You can also use an orangewood stick instead of your fingernail to gently push the gel nail off. Buff off any remaining gel residue with a nail file. Even after you have pushed off the gel nail, there may be some gel left on your fingernail. Dry the nail and use a nail file to buff it off with gentle back and forth movements. Be sure to only buff off the gel residue and not your natural nail. Most nail files have a coarse side and a smooth side. The coarse side is best for shaping your nails. This side will look and feel a lot bumpier. For buffing the surface of the nail, use the smoother side of the file. Nourish your nails with cuticle oil and your hands with hand cream. The process of taking off gel nails can leave your natural nails and hands quite dry and cracked. Once you've finished, cover your natural nails with cuticle oil. You should also moisturize your hands with hand cream. Trim your nails. First, trim your nails as short as possible. This will reduce the surface area that you will have to file down. If you nails are too thick to cut with a nail clipper, you can file the tips with the coarse grit side of your nail file until they are thin enough to clip off. File down the surface of your nails with the coarse grit side of your nail file. File gently, making crosshatches across the surface of the nail to keep it looking even and smooth. Continually move the file around your nail so you never feel a burning sensation. Move slowly and be patient: it will take some time to file down all the gel nail polish. Wipe away any dust that gathers on the nail as you file. You may want to use a metal nail file for this step because it is stronger and able to file down the gel faster. If you file the nail too quickly or roughly, you may damage the natural nail underneath. Switch to the fine side of the file when you see your natural nail. Once you see your natural nail under the gel, stop filing with the coarse grit side of your nail file. Carefully file off the remaining gel with the fine grit side. You will know you are close to the natural nail when you notice the amount of dust is decreasing or you start to see the natural ridges of your nail Condition and buff your nails. Once you have filed off all the gel polish, it's important to add moisture and nourishment to your nails. Use a nail buffer on your nails to make the surface of your nails clean and smooth. Apply lotion or oil to your nails and hands. No matter how careful you are, filing off your gel nails will cause some damage to your natural nails, so don't skip the buffing and conditioning. Fill a bowl with warm water, dish soap, and salt. Use a small bowl that will be big enough to submerge one or both hands. Add a couple of drops of dish soap and a teaspoon of salt. Be sure the water is quite warm or it won't loosen the gel polish. You may need to add more warm water if it gets cold while you are soaking your nails. Soak your hand in the bowl for about 15-20 minutes. Dip your hand in the water so that all your nails are completely submerged. There is no need to move your fingers. Simply keep them still under the water for 15-20 minutes. You can soak one hand at a time, or place both hands in the bowl at once. Take your hand out and dry it with a towel. Take you nails out of the water and dab them with a clean towel to dry. You may already start to notice some of the gel nails cracking or peeling off. If it doesn't look like the soak has loosened the nails at all, you can repeat the soaking process once again, or go straight to filing or peeling them off. Remove the gel nails by peeling or filing. Soaking your nails will probably not take any of the gel nails off by itself. But once you have soaked your nails, it will be easier to remove them with whatever acetone-free method you choose. If you choose to file off the gel nails after soaking, be sure that your nails are totally dry before you start. This will make the filing much easier. | Lift up part of the gel nail. Pour water over the lifted edge and push the gel polish off. Use olive oil or cuticle oil if the nail won’t come off with water. Buff off any remaining gel residue with a nail file. Nourish your nails with cuticle oil and your hands with hand cream. Trim your nails. File down the surface of your nails with the coarse grit side of your nail file. Switch to the fine side of the file when you see your natural nail. Condition and buff your nails. Fill a bowl with warm water, dish soap, and salt. Soak your hand in the bowl for about 15-20 minutes. Take your hand out and dry it with a towel. Remove the gel nails by peeling or filing. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cancel-Progressive-Insurance | How to Cancel Progressive Insurance | If you want to cancel your Progressive insurance, start by choosing a new insurance company, since you don't want a lapse in coverage when you cancel Progressive. Arrange for the new policy to take effect on the day you plan to end your Progressive policy. To cancel your Progressive insurance over the phone, call 888-416-2003 to reach their customer service department. Once you have a representative on the line, tell them you want to cancel your policy and provide your policy number so they can look up your account. Depending on where you live, you may also be able to cancel your account online. Log into your account on Progressive's website to see what your options are! | Choose a good time to consider switching insurers. You can cancel insurance provided by Progressive (or any other company) any time you want. That said, there are two particularly good times to consider switching insurers: Start comparing rates 3 to 4 weeks before the renewal date for your Progressive policy. Depending on the laws where you live, you should receive a renewal notice about a month before it's due. Use this information to compare rates and products with several competitors. Weigh your insurance options after a significant life event, like a marriage or divorce, the birth of a child, moving to a new home, or buying a new car or adding a new driver. Contact Progressive to see how such changes will affect your policy and rates, then use this to evaluate other options. Check your Progressive policy regarding cancellation fees. Depending on the laws in your area and the type of policy you have, you may need to pay a cancellation fee to end your policy before the renewal date. If there is a fee, it is often 10% of your outstanding premium. For instance, if you have 3 months left at $150 per month, your fee would be roughly $45. If you have prepaid for your policy, you will be refunded for the unused term following your cancellation, minus any fees ($450 - $45 = $405 in the above example). Examine your Progressive policy for details, log in to your online account ( https://www.progressive.com/ ), or call 800-776-4737 (U.S.). Choose new insurance coverage for your car. In the U.S., every state has an insurance requirement for motor vehicles, and you may be required by law to prove you have a new insurer in place when you cancel your Progressive policy. Shop around and find a new policy that suits your needs and your budget. To get quotes, you can: call insurance companies directly or visit their websites; visit the office of a nearby independent or company-affiliated insurance agent; or use third-party online quote comparison sites. Arrange for the new policy to take effect on the day you want your Progressive policy to end. You may be required by law or your mortgage company to have homeowner's insurance as well. Ask your new insurer if they can help with the cancellation. Some insurers will be so eager to get your business that they'll take care of much of the legwork in canceling your old policy. You may simply have to sign a form or provide a verbal confirmation. But, even if they don't offer this service, the process is simple enough to take care of on your own. Mail in a signed policy cancellation form. In the U.S., some states require a signed document in order to cancel car insurance, and it's often the simplest method regardless. You can find pre-made forms online that you can fill in (for instance, http://www.insurance.com/imagesvr_ce/4172/Cancellation%20form.pdf ) and mail out. Or, you can draw up a quick form letter that provides the following information: Your name, address, and phone number Your Progressive policy number, and the date and time (e.g., 12:01 am) at which you want it to end The insurer's name, policy number, and start date/time for your new policy Your dated signature Mail it to: The Progressive Corporation, 6300 Wilson Mills Rd., Mayfield Village, Ohio 44143. Mail it out at least 1 week (or, if possible, 2-3 weeks) before your intended cancellation date. Call 888-416-2003 to cancel by phone instead. Make sure you have your Progressive policy number, as well as the information for your replacement policy. Depending upon where you live, you may be able to complete the process over the phone, or you may still need to sign and return a cancellation document. The Progressive agent may try to convince you to stay with them, possibly by offering a discount. But, if you repeat something like “I'm sorry, but I've already made my final decision and have lined up a replacement policy” once or twice, they'll relent. Log in to your Progressive account and cancel online. You may or may not be able to cancel your policy this way — once again, it depends largely on the laws where you live. Log in at https://www.progressive.com/ and see what your options are, but don't be surprised if you need to make a call and/or send in a signed form in order to cancel your policy. | Choose a good time to consider switching insurers. Check your Progressive policy regarding cancellation fees. Choose new insurance coverage for your car. Ask your new insurer if they can help with the cancellation. Mail in a signed policy cancellation form. Call 888-416-2003 to cancel by phone instead. Log in to your Progressive account and cancel online. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Give-a-Lap-Dance | How to Give a Lap Dance | If you want to give a lap dance, the most important thing is to be confident so you exude sexiness. With your partner sitting in a chair, start your dance by casually circling them and caressing their shoulder as you strut. Now that you've got the mood going, you can lower yourself onto their lap and move your body up and down. After dancing on your partner's lap, you can tease them a little more by standing up and spreading their legs. While standing in between their legs, you can put your hands on their knees and move closer to their face. As you move your body from side to side, you can also lower yourself so your face is near their stomach and then slowly work your way back up. | Wear a sexy outfit. You don't have to look like an exotic dancer to give a lap dance. Just put on an outfit that emphasizes your best features while also letting you move around comfortably. You can wear sporty leggings and a sports top over sexy lingerie, a long dress, or anything that makes you feel sexy. If you decided to combine your lap dance with a strip tease, lingerie and mini-dresses are good for this purpose. If you wear a garter belt, underwear should be layered on top. High heels make legs look sexy. Play sexy music. Pick some music that is sexy enough to set the mood, but upbeat enough for you to dance to. Practice dancing to it in advance to make sure that it's good for lap dancing, not love making. A typical lap dance shouldn't last more than a minute or two -- if you're doing it right, then your partner will want to have you before the first song is over. Still, it's better to be prepared with a few songs just so you don't run out of tunes in the middle of your dance. Here are some sexy songs that are perfect for a lap dance: "So Alive" by Love And Rockets "Skin Trade" by Duran Duran "Cream" by Prince "Cradle of Love" by Billy Idol "Not Enough Time" by INXS "Say it Right" by Nelly Furtado "Let Me Put My Love Into You" by AC/DC "Love Me Like You Do" by Ellie Goulding "wRoNg" by Zayn "Work" by Rihanna Dim the lights. Lap dances are sexier if you're not doing them under garish lights. Turn down the lights in your home, throw a scarf or cloth over your brighter lamps, or even light some candles. The lights should be bright enough so that your partner can see you working your body, but not so bright that they can see every little freckle on your face. Pick a sturdy chair. If you want to give a good lap dance, then the chair should be just as important as the one sitting in it. Pick a chair with thick, sturdy legs and a high and reliable back. The chair should also comfortably hold the weight of you and your partner. If you pick a chair that's too flimsy and end up falling over or even breaking it, it'll be hard to recover. Make your partner sit in the chair. Tell your partner to sit down in the chair. They shouldn't sit like they're attending a lecture -- they should be comfortable, slightly slouched with their legs spread open a bit. Their body should say, "Hey, come dance on me." Strut into the room. Walk into the room like a sexy professional who's done a lap dance a million times and knows they're great at it. Walk with one foot in front of the other, your back straight, and your shoulders high. Start moving your hips up and down, and slowly gliding your hands along your body to give your partner a taste of what's to come. Maintain the right expression. Make sexy eye contact and look away from your partner and down at your body from time to time. You should keep your lips parted and smile slightly, just enough to let your partner see that you know how sexy you are. Circle the chair. Casually strut around the chair, continuing to work your hips up and down to the music. Caress your partner's shoulder, and even lower your body to the floor when you're standing behind them, just to get them even more in the mood. Have a seat. The lap dance can't begin until you're actually on your partner's lap. Stand in front of them with your chest leaning towards their face and your butt slightly out, and slowly lower yourself onto their lap. Wrap one leg around the back of the chair for support, and then the other. This should keep you from falling off the chair. Wrap your arms around your partner's neck. To start, wrap your arms around your partner's neck while continuing to move your body up and down. Tease your partner. While your bodies are so close, move your body against theirs, lean your face close to theirs, and lean in for a kiss -- but just a quick kiss on the lips that leaves them wanting more. Don't get too sexy before you show off your hot moves. Bend down like a sex goddess. Slowly unwrap your legs from the chair and stand between their spread legs. Place your hands on their knees, and move toward their face, and then slowly lower yourself until you're moving your body from side to side with your face near their stomach. Place your hands on their sides for just a second, and then slowly work your way back up. Do the simple figure eight. It's all in the hips -- just stand in front of your partner and move your hips in a simple figure eight until they look like they can't take it anymore. Move your hands from the air to your breasts and then down to your sides as you do this. You can even try turning around while you work it. Touch yourself. Firmly push your partner back against the chair, and stand in front of them. Don't even let your bodies touch. Move your hands up and down your body, like you're rubbing bubbly soap all over yourself. Be sensual, and close your eyes. Pretend you're in the shower if that helps get you in the mood. If they try to reach out for you, slap their hand away. Shake your butt. Turn around while you're standing between your partner's legs, and slowly get low until your hands are near the floor and you're shaking your thang near your partner's crotch, stomach, or even all the way up to their face. Continue to move your body seductively as you do this, and then slowly work your way up to standing position. If you're feeling confident, you can even turn around to give your partner a subtle smile as you do this. For a variation, you can put your hands on your partner's knees instead of the floor. Bend back. Sit on your partner's lap while keeping one arm around their shoulder. Sweep your free arm downward until you're almost touching the floor and your chest is front and center. Gently move your free hand up and down like you're riding a bull in slow-motion. Bend back even further. If you feel like your lap dancing skills are up to snuff and have a pretty flexible back, then move your free arm all the way back until it touches the floor, and your pelvis is gyrating against your partner's. Now, take the hand that was wrapped around their neck and sweep it down to the floor too, working it up and down while your other hand remains planed on the floor. Continue to move your hips and body as you do this. Dance behind your partner. If you're feeling really sexy, stand behind the chair, facing the back of your partner's head, and gently lower your chest towards their head. Move your body downward as you caress the area above their waist all the way up to their face. Don't try this one for more than fifteen seconds, or your partner may go crazy. Unwrap one leg from the back of the chair, then the other. Lean towards your partner to make it easier for you to unhook your leg from the back of the chair. Place your hands on your partner's shoulders. Be firm, but not too rough. Keep your butt perched in the air. Push your chest closer to your partner while pushing your butt and back out for balance. Use their body to move yourself into standing position. Slowly push back on their shoulders until your feet are firmly planted in standing position and you've found your balance. Stay sexy. Don't leave the chair like you're walking out to a business meeting. Continue to work your hips and run your hands across your body as you remove yourself from the chair. Once you're off -- stay hot and prepare for whatever happens next. | Wear a sexy outfit. Play sexy music. Dim the lights. Pick a sturdy chair. Make your partner sit in the chair. Strut into the room. Maintain the right expression. Circle the chair. Have a seat. Wrap one leg around the back of the chair for support, and then the other. Wrap your arms around your partner's neck. Tease your partner. Bend down like a sex goddess. Do the simple figure eight. Touch yourself. Shake your butt. Bend back. Bend back even further. Dance behind your partner. Unwrap one leg from the back of the chair, then the other. Place your hands on your partner's shoulders. Keep your butt perched in the air. Use their body to move yourself into standing position. Stay sexy. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Dry-a-Hibiscus-Flower | How to Dry a Hibiscus Flower | Hibiscus flowers are great for your immune system, and you can dry them out for making tea or cooking with. Only use hibiscus flowers that haven't been treated with pesticides so you don't accidentally ingest any harmful chemicals. Pick the flowers with their stems, but pull off the yellow stamen in the center of each flower. Dip each flower in water to clean it, then spread them on a drying rack in the sun. If it's windy, tie them down with string or wire. Leave them for 3 days or until they're dry, but bring them inside at night to protect them from pests. You can use your dried flowers like tea leaves or add them to your food while you're cooking for extra flavor. | Cut the stem off of a hibiscus flower. Leave a ⁄ 2 in (1.3 cm) stub at the bottom of the blossom so that it will be easier to handle. Make sure that the flower you are using is completely dry and does not have any holes, tears, or bruising. Do not use this method if you wish to use the flowers for food, drink, or cosmetics. Silica gel will render the petals inedible. Pour 1 inch (2.5 cm) of silica gel into a glass or plastic container. Choose a container that is wider and deeper than your flower. If you want to dry more than 1 hibiscus flower, make sure that the container is wide enough to fit all of the flowers with space between them. Fill the container with 1 inch (2.5 cm) of silica gel. You can find silica gel in the floral section of a craft store. Contrary to its name, it is actually a white, powdery substance. The amount of space you leave between multiple flowers does not have to be exact. As long as the petals are not touching, you will be fine. Place the flower stem-first into the silica gel. The ⁄ 2 in (1.3 cm) stub at the bottom of the flower will help keep it upright while it dries. Make sure that the undersides of the petals are touching the silica gel. Cover the flower with more silica gel. Pour the silica gel slowly over and around the flower so that you don't crush the petals. Keep adding the gel until the flower is completely covered. Ideally, you should have a 1 in (2.5 cm) thick layer of silica gel on top of the flower. Cover the container with a lid and leave it alone for 2 to 6 days. Make sure that the lid is on tightly, as any moisture could prevent the silica gel from working properly. Place the container some place where it won't get accidentally bumped or moved, as this can ruin the flower. The place should be dry and dark, not humid. A cabinet would be ideal. Check the flower after 2 days. If it is not dry and papery, cover it back up with silica gel, and wait longer. Take the flower out of the silica gel. Once the 2 to 6 days have passed, open the container and pour out enough of the silica gel to reveal the flower. Scoop the flower up from the bottom with your fingers. Be very careful with it as it will be delicate. Dust excess silica gel off of the flower with a soft brush. Camel hair paintbrushes and powder brushes work great for this. Avoid using stiff brushes as they may tear the flower. Use the brush to delicately wipe off any excess silica that may be clinging to the petals. If you are worried about the flower falling apart, you can place a drop of clear-drying glue into its center. The glue will help hold the petals together once it dries. Use the dried flower in crafts. You can decoupage the flower onto a box or card, or you can add it to a homemade candle. If you aren't happy with the flower's shape, you can add it to a bowl of potpourri. Do not use these flowers in soaps, teas, or makeup. The silica gel would render them unsafe for consumption and cosmetic use. Find a pesticide-free hibiscus if you are using it for food or cosmetics. This is very important as water may not enough to get rid of any pesticides. For the best flavor, use the hibiscus sabdariffa variety. If you are simply drying the flowers for craft projects, they do not have to be pesticide-free. Pick the flowers and remove the stamens. Pick the flowers off of the plant 1 by 1, and place them into a bowl or basket. Once the container is full, go through the flowers, and pull off the yellow stamens in the center. Leave the stems on the flower, as this will make them easier to dry. Plan on using 8 to 10 flowers for a single pot of tea. Dip the flowers in water to remove any dust and insects. Fill a large, clean bowl with water. Working 1 flower at a time, dip the flowers into the water, swish it around, then lift it out and set it aside. The swishing will help dislodge anything caught between the petals and the green part. If the plant had insects on it, be sure to pry open the petals and the green part of the flowers once the flower is under the water. Spread the flowers out on a drying rack. This can be an actual drying rack used for cooling off baked goods, or it can be a small, clean window screen. You can even use a crisper sheet that you use for making cookies. Secure the flowers with thin wire if it is windy. Weave thin wire over the flowers and under the holes on the drying rack. Keep the wire taut enough so that it keeps the flowers secure, but loose enough so that it doesn't crush the flowers. Keep the flowers at an angle under the wire, so that the wire goes between the petals. You can use any type of thin wire, such as jewelry wire or floral wire. You can even use twist ties from a pack of garbage bags. Leave the flowers outside in the sun, but bring them inside at night. Keep doing this every day until the flowers dry completely. They will shrink and turn brittle. How long this takes depends on how dry or humid it is, as well as how sunny it is. Expect to wait at least 3 days. It is very important that you bring the flowers indoors for the evening, as any morning dew will reverse the drying process. Keep the flowers in the driest, sunniest spot in your garden, patio, or balcony. Check on the flowers once or twice daily until they dry. If you notice that the flowers are only drying on 1 side, rotate them. Use 8 to 10 flowers to brew a pot of tea. Place 8 to 10 dried hibiscus flowers into a tea pot. Add some flavoring if desired, then fill the pot with boiled water. Let the tea steep for 20 minutes, then strain it. Sweeten the tea with honey, if desired, then serve it hot or cold. For a warm, sweet flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon and a slice of prance peel. If you want something refreshing, try a mint leaf and a slice of orange peel. For a more tart flavor, add a squeeze of lime just before serving the tea. Grind the flowers into a powder if you wish to use them for cosmetics. Grind the petals into a fine powder in a blender. Pour the petals through a fine, mesh sieve into a jar, to help break them up further. Close the jar, and use the powder as desired. You can now add the petals to homemade cosmetics, such as blush, lip gloss, and hair masks. You can also use a food processor, a coffee grinder, or a mortar and pestle to grind the flowers. Use the hibiscus flower in your cooking for extra flavor and color. You can add hibiscus to your cooking just like you would other edible flowers, such as roses and violets. For example, you can use the dried flowers to infuse meringues or simple sugar syrups. You can even use it in marinades, especially for lamb! Look for an organic hibiscus sabdariffa and locate the calyx. There are many varieties of the hibiscus flower, but the hibiscus sabdariffa variety is the one that gives you the best flavor. The calyx is the green, trumpet-shaped part at the base of the flower, which will eventually turn red and brittle. The hibiscus must be pesticide-free if you are using it for tea. It does not have to be pesticide-free if you are using it for general crafts. You can try using this method for the actual flowers too, but you will need to adjust the drying time. Pick the calyxes 24 to 48 hours after the flower has bloomed. Timing is everything here. Find hibiscus flowers that are in bloom, then wait for them to fall. Locate the red calyx, then pick it after 24 to 48 hours. This will ensure that it is ripe. The calyx should pop off of its stem easily. If you have to pull it off, it is not ripe yet. Try again the next day. Cut the seed pod away from the calyx. Cut the calyx from the stem of the flower first. Next, cut a shallow slit down the length of the calyx. Pry open the calyx with your fingers, then pop the seed pod out. Try to keep the calyx intact. Don't throw the seed pods away! Allow the seed pods to dry for 1 week, then crack them open and plant the seeds. Dry the calyx using a dehydrator. Preheat the dehydrator between 95 to 115 °F (35 to 46 °C). Spread the calyxes on the tray in a single layer. Allow the calyxes to dry completely before taking them out of the dehydrator. This will take about 1 to 4 hours. Each dehydrator is different, so follow the instructions on your model carefully. Use the calyx to brew hibiscus tea. Pour 2 cups (475 milliliters) of hot water over 1 tablespoon (15 grams) of dried hibiscus calyxes. Allow the tea to steep for 10 minutes before removing the calyxes. Flavor the tea as desired with lemon juice, sugar, or honey. Serve the tea hot or iced. If you want a stronger tea, use more hibiscus calyxes and increase the brewing time. Use the calyx to make potpourri. If hibiscus tea isn't for you, you can add the dehydrated calyx to homemade potpourri. You can try using it in homemade candles or soap as well, but it would be a good idea to crumble it up first so that it isn't as bulky. Alternatively, you can string whole calyxes onto thread and make a pretty garland for your room. | Cut the stem off of a hibiscus flower. Pour 1 inch (2.5 cm) of silica gel into a glass or plastic container. Place the flower stem-first into the silica gel. Cover the flower with more silica gel. Cover the container with a lid and leave it alone for 2 to 6 days. Take the flower out of the silica gel. Dust excess silica gel off of the flower with a soft brush. Use the dried flower in crafts. Find a pesticide-free hibiscus if you are using it for food or cosmetics. Pick the flowers and remove the stamens. Dip the flowers in water to remove any dust and insects. Spread the flowers out on a drying rack. Secure the flowers with thin wire if it is windy. Leave the flowers outside in the sun, but bring them inside at night. Use 8 to 10 flowers to brew a pot of tea. Grind the flowers into a powder if you wish to use them for cosmetics. Use the hibiscus flower in your cooking for extra flavor and color. Look for an organic hibiscus sabdariffa and locate the calyx. Pick the calyxes 24 to 48 hours after the flower has bloomed. Cut the seed pod away from the calyx. Dry the calyx using a dehydrator. Use the calyx to brew hibiscus tea. Use the calyx to make potpourri. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Load-a-Shotgun | How to Load a Shotgun | To load a pump-action shotgun, first make sure its safety is on, the chamber is empty, and the barrel is pointed away from you to maintain proper gun safety. Then, place your first shell against the loading flap and push it forward until you hear a click. Once your first shell is loaded, repeat the process for however many rounds your shotgun takes. When a shell won't go into the loading flap, you'll know the gun is full. When your shotgun is fully loaded, hold its action release button and pump the slide backwards and forwards to load the first round into the chamber. | Make sure the safety is on, the chamber unloaded, and the barrel pointed away from you in a safe direction. This is always the first step when loading or handling any gun. Consult your weapon's instruction manual to locate the safety feature. Determine what gauge (bore diameter) your shotgun is so you can select the right size shells. Common shotgun sizes are 10, 12, 16, 20,.410 bore, and 28. Shotshell of one gauge may be fired in a shotgun of another gauge, but doing so requires a special tube. Otherwise it is best to just select the proper sized ammo for your weapon. Place the butt of the stock on your left thigh while sitting. You can also secure the stock under your arm with the gun turned sideways. Make sure that the trigger and trigger guard are positioned on the side of the shotgun facing away from you. Place a single shell against the loading flap just ahead of the trigger guard. The "business end" of the shell should be pointing toward the end of the gun barrel. The business end is the end of the shell that the shot comes out of and is opposite the metal capped end of the shell where the explosive charge is housed. Using your thumb, push the shell straight up into the loading flap until you hear and feel a distinct click. When it clicks, the rim of the shell should have passed the magazine catch. Repeat until the magazine tube is full. You can tell the tube is full when you attempt to load a shell but it won't go in. Hold in the action release button and pump the slide backwards and then forwards with a reasonable amount of force to load the chamber. This will strip a shell from the magazine and load it into firing position. The shotgun is now ready to fire. Make sure the safety is on and the gun pointed away from you in a safe direction. Always treat a gun as though it were loaded, even if you know it isn't. Find and engage the barrel breach lever, latch or button. This will usually be on the right side of the gun, where the barrel meets the stock. Unlike a pump-action shotgun, a break action has no magazine tube to load several shells at a time into. Instead, the gun breaks open to allow you to load a shell directly into the chamber of your barrel (or barrels). This means your gun needs to be reloaded after every shot, or every two shots if you have a double-barreled shotgun. Open the break-action and lower the barrel away from the body of the shotgun. Remove and discard any spent casings. Be careful: these may be hot if the gun was recently fired. Try not to let your hand touch the metal of the barrel. Replace each used casing with a fresh shell. The business-end of the shell should slide into the barrel. Bring the barrel back up and close the break until you hear and feel it click. Your gun is now loaded and ready to fire. | Make sure the safety is on, the chamber unloaded, and the barrel pointed away from you in a safe direction. Determine what gauge (bore diameter) your shotgun is so you can select the right size shells. Place the butt of the stock on your left thigh while sitting. Place a single shell against the loading flap just ahead of the trigger guard. Using your thumb, push the shell straight up into the loading flap until you hear and feel a distinct click. Repeat until the magazine tube is full. Hold in the action release button and pump the slide backwards and then forwards with a reasonable amount of force to load the chamber. Make sure the safety is on and the gun pointed away from you in a safe direction. Find and engage the barrel breach lever, latch or button. Open the break-action and lower the barrel away from the body of the shotgun. Remove and discard any spent casings. Replace each used casing with a fresh shell. Bring the barrel back up and close the break until you hear and feel it click. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Create-Pin-Curls | How to Create Pin Curls | To create pin curls, start by wetting your hair and applying a little hairspray or setting lotion, which will help your curls hold their shape. Then, starting at the front of your head, wrap small sections of your hair around your fingers to create the curls. Roll the curls up to the top of your head and then secure them to your scalp with bobby pins. Once you've pinned all of your hair to your scalp, wrap your head in a scarf and let your hair sit for several hours. Once your hair is dry, take all of the bobby pins out and style your new curls! | Wash your hair. To create pin curls, you must start with evenly damp hair. Although you can just spray your hair to wet it, washing it will give you a clean slate and your curls will last for longer. Towel dry hair after your wash to remove excess water. If you have very thick hair, give a little time for your hair to air-dry before creating the curls. You may need to mist the ends lightly to get even dampness in this case. The goal is to have your hair completely dry before removing the pins, so if you feel it is too wet let it dry a bit first. This goes even if you hair is not incredibly thick. You can also apply a setting lotion or thin styling gel to help the curls hold. Starting at the front of your head, begin creating curls. Take small sections between ½ -1 inch (2.5 cm) wide, and wrap them between your thumb and forefinger to create a small loop. Continue rolling upwards in a spiral until your reach your head. Use 1-2 bobby pins to pin this spiral to the roots of your hair. Alternatively, you can use pin curl clips. These can be found at beauty supply stores and won't leave lines. For regular pin curls, these spirals should lay nearly flat against your head and should not stick out at all. But you can also make “stand-up” pin curls – these have more volume, like curls made with a roller. If you use strands of hair that are too thick, the bobby pins will leave indentations when you remove them. If you have thick hair, use thinner sections to twirl. Don't twist your hair into rope-like strands before spiraling it inwards. Think of it more like a ribbon – wind the hair up without twisting. Work from the top down, so that you don't miss any strands of hair. Pin all of your hair in small, flat spirals. Work your way around your head until all of your hair has been pinned to your scalp. Make sure that there are no loose strands, and that all the bobby pins feel secure. Wrap your head in a scarf or bandana. This will prevent your hair from becoming frizzy and any of the pins from coming loose. Try using a cotton scarf or bandana, so that it will absorb some of the moisture from your hair. This will also reduce the static cling created from the friction of the scarf on your hair. If you put your pin curls in at night, sleep with the scarf in. Make sure that it is secure enough that it won't slip from your head while you snooze. Wait several hours. It is easiest to create your pin curls at night before you go to bed and then sleep on them. You can also just sit around and wait for them to dry. Regardless of when you set your curls, be sure that your hair is completely dry before you remove the pins. Avoid using a hair-dryer on your pin-curls, as it will make your hair frizzier and lose its curl. If you're in a hurry, use a diffuser on your dryer to minimize frizz. Make sure the dryer is on the lowest setting. If your hair is still damp, give it more time to air dry. Test one of your curls to see if it is dry enough. Remove the pins from the single curl, and unravel your hair. Check to verify that the entire strand is dry. If it is, your pin curls are ready. Remove all the pins. Starting from the back and bottom of your hair, take all the pins out and slowly unravel each curl. They may immediately appear too spiral-esque, but don't fret. When you finish removing all the pins you can style the curls to fit your preferences. Style your curls. Once all the pins are removed, the curls will need to be lightly brushed through to give that classic pin-curl look. This will also remove the piecey appearance they probably have. If your hair is very fine or thin, start by simply finger-brushing your hair to break apart strands. For thicker hair or a more vintage look, use a boar-bristle brush to comb out your strands directly. Use a little pomade rubbed between your fingertips to add texture to your hair and reduce frizz. Add hairspray to add extra hold to your hair for the whole day. Wash your hair. Your hair must be wet for this style to set, and it is best to start with clean hair by washing it. Towel dry it to remove excess moisture. Let your hair air-dry for a few minutes until it is only damp. If you are in a rush, you can spray hair down with a squirt bottle filled with water. Use a curl enhancer or light setting lotion to keep the moisture even. It should also give you more polished results. Use a straight-edge comb to separate your hair into sections. For bantu knot-out curls, you will be spiraling your hair into little stacks on top of your head. Therefore, you will need sections that are a bit thicker than traditional pin curls. Depending on the thickness and length of your hair, make sections that are between 1–3 inches (2.5–7.6 cm) wide across your scalp. Work from the top and front of your head towards the bottom and rear. If you have time, traditional bantu knot spirals are separated into a pattern on the scalp. Section off your pieces of hair into a square grid, diamond pattern, or small triangles. Use your comb extensively during this process to make neat parts and even sections. Twist each section of hair into a spiral. Working one section at a time, twist the strand of hair into a tight rope-looking strand. Twist each strand as tightly and far as you can manage. The tighter you twist it, the fuller your curls will be. With enough twisting, the strand of hair will want to curl in on itself. Continue with each strand until you reach this point. To vary the direction of the curls, spin some clockwise and others counterclockwise. Wrap each twisted section into a small spiral stack. These spirals of hair will jut out from your head like little knobs, rather than lying flat like traditional pin curls. Use 1-2 bobby pins to secure the ends of each spiral to the hair at the scalp. If your hair is thick and long, each spiral will likely protrude much further from your head. Be sure that they are firmly pinned in this case. Complete your entire head in this fashion and wait. The curls will not be ready until the hair is completely dry, but similar to traditional pin curls, avoid using a blow-dryer and ruining your hard work. It is easiest to place this in your hair at night and to sleep on them, so that they are prepared and ready for you in the morning. Because these curls contain more hair in each spiral than traditional pin curls, they may take longer to dry. Be sure to take this extra time into account. Again, use a diffuser on the lowest heat setting if you're in a rush. The curls should still be OK if you are careful. Wrap your head in a scarf. This will help keep your pins and curls in place while you work or sleep. Use a cotton bandana or scarf to absorb excess moisture from you hair, and avoid using any fabric that the pins might get caught in. Remove the pins. Once you are certain your hair is dry, remove all the bobby pins beginning at the back and working towards the top and front. Unravel each curl once you finish removing the pins. Style your hair. Begin by gently finger-brushing apart strands to remove their tight coiled appearance. For fuller curls, use a boar-bristle brush to comb strands into big, luxurious waves. Spread pomade or hair gel between your fingertips and run them through your hair. This will help to reduce frizz and give your hair a natural definition. Top off your style with a bit of hairspray to set the curls. Brush out your hair. Make sure that it smooth and has no tangles or teasing, as this will make your hair more difficult to remove from the headband style. Your hair can be wet or dry for this style and will need several hours to set. If your hair is dry, you'll need to prep it beforehand with hairspray or some kind of styling product. Avoid styling your hair with heat prior to trying this method of curling. Allow your hair to be in its natural form. Make sure your hair is parted down it's normal line, so that the curls you create will fall to the correct side. Put a headband over your forehead and around to the back of your head. It should be laying over the top of your hair, not under it. Use a headband that is no wider than ½ an inch thick and is elastic. Avoid using a headband that is cylindrical, as this will be more likely to roll off the top of your head. Don't use a headband with any beading, sequins, or adornment, as your hair will get caught and become incredibly difficult to remove. Begin twisting hair in one inch sections. Starting at the front of your head, take pieces of hair about one inch thick, and twist them until they become very tight and rope-like. Then, wrap them around the headband towards the back of your head. Try to keep the curl tightly wrapped around the headband in a spiral, so that it does not take up too much of the available space on the headband. Repeat this process from the front, all the way around to the back of your hair. For smaller spiral curls, use thinner strands of hair. For big, bouncy curls, increase the size of the hair sections you wrap. Wait for your hair to set. As with most heat-less curling methods, it is easiest to let the curls set overnight. Wait at least six hours before taking off the headband. Remove the headband. Once your hair has been given enough time to hold its curl, it is safe to take of the headband. Start by unravelling the strands of hair at the back of your head towards the front. The curls will probably start out very tight, but don't worry as they will relax over time. Style your hair. Depending on your desired curl-tightness, you may prefer not to brush out curls too much. To give these curls a more natural appearance, finger-brush them or gently comb them to break apart the strands. Use a texturizing hairspray or pomade to give a natural appearance to the curls. Use hairspray to set the style. | Wash your hair. Starting at the front of your head, begin creating curls. Pin all of your hair in small, flat spirals. Wrap your head in a scarf or bandana. Wait several hours. Remove all the pins. Style your curls. Wash your hair. Use a straight-edge comb to separate your hair into sections. Twist each section of hair into a spiral. Wrap each twisted section into a small spiral stack. Complete your entire head in this fashion and wait. Wrap your head in a scarf. Remove the pins. Style your hair. Brush out your hair. Put a headband over your forehead and around to the back of your head. Begin twisting hair in one inch sections. Wait for your hair to set. Remove the headband. Style your hair. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Female-Friend-Love-You | How to Make a Female Friend Love You | It can be confusing when you realize you've fallen for your female friend, but with some careful planning, you can increase your chances of being together. If you haven't already, you'll want to get to know her other friends, since these people are probably pretty important to her. If they approve of you, you might even ask them to help set you up with her. When you're around your female friend, try a little subtle flirting to gauge how she responds. For instance, try complimenting her more than usual or standing a tad closer together. If she smiles and responds well to your hints, she might be interested in being more than friends. Continue to hang out with her one-on-one as much as possible. Then, when the moment's right, express your feelings honestly! You can say something like, “I don't want to make you uncomfortable, but lately I've been thinking about being more than friends. What do you think?” | Discover her conscious romantic standards. Some of these will be fairly obvious. She may want to be with someone with the same religious values, or a non-smoker. You don't have to necessarily meet all of her criteria, but you should avoid failing to meet her standards, as this will often remove you from her romantic pool. Make a list of features shared by all her previous boyfriends. These are likely things she makes it a priority to find in her romantic interests, and may be characteristics you should consider cultivating in yourself. Figure out her unconscious criteria. This is often related to her own personal characteristics. Many people, including your female friend, search for a partner with the same positive characteristics that they like in themselves, but want qualities in a partner that are opposite to the things they dislike about themselves. After you find out some of the things she dislikes about herself, show her how you can compliment those areas with your strengths. You could say: I hate how competitive I am. I think I'd be much happier if I learned to enjoy things instead of making them into a competition. What about you? If you could change one thing about yourself, what would it be?" Chart out her love map. Psychologists have discovered that as we go through life, we start developing a "love map," or an idea of who we want to be in a relationship. Some aspects of her love map will be conscious, like she might want an educated partner, but these can also be subconscious preferences, like how affectionate her partner is. By understanding her love map, you can meet her needs better. Though there are many variables that will affect her particular love map, look for these criteria to guide you in understanding her love map: The expectation of romantic relationships to involve commitment. The accepted duration for a relationship. A belief that the "right" romantic partner will bring satisfaction. The ideal length of time acceptable before arriving at a romantic commitment (saying “I love you”). The length of time between a breakup and becoming involved in a new relationship. The acceptable length of time spent waiting for a partner to commit. The level of acceptable disagreement on basic life values. Whether or not an argument with a partner is exciting or frightening. Whether or not a polyamorous relationship is acceptable. The amount of time expected to be spent separate from friends, family, and social events/obligations. Meet her friends. Be on your best behavior when you do so, because these people will give you a window into her life that few others will have at their disposal. If you're serious about your love for your female friend, expressing your genuine caring for her to her friends will likely earn you their respect, and maybe their approval. You don't have to bare your heart and confess your love to her friends; try to earn the respect of her friends by being a nice guy. Explain how you've noticed she's been stressed and ask what they think you can do. Or mention that she's been a good friend and you want to do something nice, what do they think she'd appreciate? Contemplate her past relationship(s). Breakups, especially difficult breakups, will cause her to revise her love map, whether consciously or unconsciously. By showing her that you are different from her ex, you'll make yourself a more desirable potential partner. Learn what thrills her. Science has shown that the chemicals released when you and her experience fear together are linked closely with arousal and attraction. Thrilling experiences can give you both a dose of good anxiety, and set the tone for the next stage in your relationship. Roller coasters and amusement parks are a great way to get the blood pumping without actually scaring her. A suspenseful thriller can also have this effect, though you might want to avoid slasher and gore-filled films. You don't want yourself associated with the homicidal, even if you do want her heart. Research her preferred method of exercise. The physical response you have to a workout mimics your body's response to arousal. By exercising together, not only will you both be riding an endorphin high which she'll start associating with you, but also, she'll likely see you in a more attractive light. Use mutual friends to your advantage. This may seem underhanded, but if you really are a good match and she just can't see it, your efforts to win her over can get a boost when supported by a trusted source, like her friends. If her friends think you're great, chances are she'll agree. This can only work to your advantage while winning her heart. Use repetition. The more you hear something, the more you'll believe its true. This same fact will work in your favor when winning over your female friend. You don't have call every five minutes, which might put her off, but by staying in sight or being around her frequently, you'll reinforce the naturalness of your presence there. Set the mood with soft lighting. This may seem a little over the top, and you might not want to employ something as obvious as a candlelit dinner. After all, you don't want to come on too strong. However, studies have shown that large pupils are a signal to which your female friend will unconsciously respond. Dilated pupils can be an indication of many things, but for your situation, most important is that pupils dilate when feeling physical or psychological pleasure. Going to a movie as friends or a dimly lit coffee shop and making eye contact will send her subconscious the sign that you have chemistry. Cultivate your mystique. When you feel like you've met your perfect match, it's easy to say too much too soon. Holding back can be difficult, but by not giving her all the details, she'll find her mind wondering more and more about you, which could lead feelings of friendship to something more. Flirt with her. This can be tricky, as every woman will have a different level of flirtation she is comfortable with. Take cues from her past relationships. What did you notice other guys did that worked? What flopped? Remember, its important to respect her boundaries, even when trying to win her heart. Compliment with a hint of sexiness. Instead of saying that she looks good, you might instead say, "If only my last date were as breathtaking as you." This way, you indicate subtly that you think you would be a good match while complimenting her. Find ways to be physically close. In all relationships, closeness is a sign of comfort and intimacy. Though keep in mind, some people need more personal space than others. Don't force closeness; find ways of naturally and comfortably coming together. The hushed atmosphere of museums makes whispering while standing close normal. Allow your touches to linger. You will need to gauge her comfort level before attempting this, as an unexpected touch can come across as pushy. But physical touch releases oxytocin in the blood, sometimes referred to as the "love hormone." Be persistent, when appropriate. If your female friend is externally dependent, that is, if she relies on people or things outside of herself to feel good about herself, it's likely she will be thrilled if you chase after her. Be wary of coming on too strong. Many independent women consider that kind of behavior to be suffocating, which won't win you points in her book of love. Don't rush yourself. This is your friend, and even if you've been suffering with these romantic feelings for a long time, the last thing you should want is to make her feel uncomfortable. Strong emotions make it easy to get carried away; don't allow your strong feelings to compromise your friendship. Journaling about your feelings can help you feel less overwhelmed, which can be a powerful preventative for making a hasty, emotional decision. Write a personal letter. This will help you get all the things you want to say down on paper, without having said them to your female friend. Now you can think about whether these might come across as too strong; the last thing you want is to scare her away, especially if there's potential for love. Gauge her feelings. Does she constantly want to hang out with you alone? Do you find her looking at you more frequently, or did she break up with a boyfriend for no particular reason that you know of? These can all be signals that she is becoming interested in you as more than just a friend. Ask her friends. This can be dangerous, as sometimes friends will make decisions on their own that they feel is best for your female friend. However, if she has a friend that you are also friends with, and trust, you can get a clear read on the situation by asking if you stand a chance. Be sure you express yourself clearly: "Has she said anything about me? I really want to be the one to tell her myself, but I've been thinking lately that we might be good as more than friends." Choose your moment carefully. As her friend, this will be a lot easier for you to determine than some stranger off the street. Pay attention to her work schedule, home life, social life, and any other factor that might be adding stress to her life or making her unhappy. You don't want these to influence her decision negatively. To give yourself the best odds, you should ask on a clear, comfortable day, when she is not too tired or stressed. Get comfortable with your own vulnerability. Unfortunately, as uncomfortable as being vulnerable can be, this is the only way you are going to be able to express your feelings for your female friend. But you can take comfort in the fact that everyone at some point feels vulnerable, and use this to your advantage. As an example, you might confess your feelings by saying, "This isn't easy for me. I'm not the best at being vulnerable, and it's always been hard for me to put my feelings out there. I don't want things to change between us if you aren't comfortable, but lately I've been finding myself wondering about what it would be like if we went out on a date together." Reassure her while telling how you feel. Especially if the friendship is important to you and you want it to continue even if she isn't interested in dating, it's important that you let her know this. You: "I hope I'm not making you uncomfortable by saying this, and I want you to know, no matter what happens, nothing will change on my end if you don't want it to. But I can't stop myself from feeling like there might be something more between us, and I have to know if you feel this way, too." Express your feelings honestly. This does not mean hire a string quartet and sing out your love in front of her apartment complex. The way you express your feelings will be unique to your relationship. If she's the type that likes grand gestures, maybe the string quartet is the way to go. But remember, you are shifting the nature of your relationship, and that's a big step already. Be careful you don't say anything over the top, or jump into things too fast; this may only hurt your chances with her. Try winning her over if you think she likes you back. If you're pretty sure she likes you as more than just a friend, too, there's no harm in seeing where things go. If you can help her see you as a romantic interest, it's possible love will grow from the friendship - it happens all the time. If she flirts with you sometimes, or says things like "I can always be myself with you, and no one else," feel encouraged to open her eyes to your love for her. Try it once if you're not sure how she'll respond. If she hasn't flirted with you or otherwise shown romantic interest, you can still reveal your feelings to her. While you can't control how she'll react, you can be yourself and see if she'd consider dating you instead of just being friends. Beware sharing your feelings if you value the friendship. She may like things just the way they are. Revealing your feelings is going to be a game changer. If she says she likes you too, the relationship will change; if she says she's not that into you, it will also change. Worst-case scenario, she won't feel as comfortable with you anymore, and she won't feel able to just go back to your normal friendship. Always take no for an answer. Respect her feelings and her answer. No matter how much you love her, you can't make her love you back. She doesn't owe that to you. If you really care about her, don't keep trying to "win" her after she's already turned you down. | Discover her conscious romantic standards. Figure out her unconscious criteria. Chart out her love map. Meet her friends. Contemplate her past relationship(s). Learn what thrills her. Research her preferred method of exercise. Use mutual friends to your advantage. Use repetition. Set the mood with soft lighting. Cultivate your mystique. Flirt with her. Be persistent, when appropriate. Don't rush yourself. Gauge her feelings. Ask her friends. Choose your moment carefully. Get comfortable with your own vulnerability. Reassure her while telling how you feel. Express your feelings honestly. Try winning her over if you think she likes you back. Try it once if you're not sure how she'll respond. Beware sharing your feelings if you value the friendship. Always take no for an answer. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Determine-if-You-Are-a-Tall-Girl | How to Determine if You Are a Tall Girl | To tell if you're a tall girl, compare your height to your friends. If you're taller than most or all of them, then you're probably tall! Alternatively, you may have difficulty finding pants that are long enough due to your long legs. People may also ask you often if you play basketball or volleyball, which are common sports for tall people to play. When you're in a crowded room, you may notice that your friends can always spot you due to your height. Being tall may also mean that you never have enough leg room, like when you're on a bus or plane. If you're still unsure, try measuring yourself, since if you're taller than 5 feet 6 inches, you can be considered tall. | See if you're taller than most of the girls you know. If you're standing around a group of your friends and you're towering over them, then yeah, you're tall. Check out a photo of you and your friends and see where you stack up -- if you're a head above the rest of your friends, then yep, you're probably tall. But remember that it also depends on who you hang out with -- you won't look so tall if you're hanging out with members of the volleyball team instead of regular girls. See if you have a hard time finding clothes that fit you. If you regularly have a hard time finding pants that fit you because they are always too short, then yeah, you're tall. You may even hear your girlfriends complaining about always having to hem their pants because they are too long and may wonder what the heck they are talking about. You may also have a hard time finding shirts that don't look like belly shirts when you put them on. As for shorts, if you're tall, then it may be hard for you to find shorts that cover much of your legs; if your school has a dress code where your fingertips have to reach the bottom of your shorts, it may be nearly impossible for you to find a pair of shorts that is long enough. See if everyone around you asks if you play basketball or volleyball. If everyone around you asks if you play these "tall girl" sports, then it may be a sign that you are taller than average. This can be annoying if you don't actually play those sports -- or any sports at all! People love to assume things about others because of their looks, and you shouldn't get too discouraged by this. See if you're taller than 5'6". Though this measurement can change depending on what country you're from, in general, if you're taller than this, you can be considered tall. See if you're just hitting puberty earlier than other people. In general, girls hit puberty between the ages of 8-13, and boys hit puberty between the ages of 9-15. This means that, if you feel tall but you're only 11, you may just be developing faster than a lot of your girl friends, and may be taller than the boys around you, who will take a bit longer to catch up. If you're still in the midst of puberty and many of your friends haven't hit puberty yet, then don't worry -- in a year or two, you'll be surprised by how quickly you stop feeling like "the tall girl." See if you can never blend in when you're in a crowd. If you're in a room full of people, and your friends can spot you right away from across the crowded space, then yeah, it may be because you're so tall that you stand out easily. There's nothing wrong with that -- who says that standing out is a bad thing? See if you never have enough legroom. Whether you're sitting on a plane or in the passenger seat of your friend's car, if you always feel like you have to move your legs to one side, recline the seat, or just contort your body to get your feet on the ground, then you may be a tall girl. See if you tower over most of the guys your age. If those middle school or high school dances are awkward because any guy you dance with is just short enough to be eye-level with your chest when it's time to sway to a slow song, then yeah, you're a tall girl. But don't be discouraged -- there's a good chance that a lot of the guys you know haven't stopped growing yet. See if you feel guilty for always blocking everyone's view when you go to a concert or the movies. You can't help being tall. But still, you find yourself feeling guilty whenever you go to a concert or the movies, because you just know that the person behind you can't see a thing. There's not much you can do about it -- except slouch in your seat. If this sounds like you, then you're probably a tall girl. Remember that tall is beautiful. And hey, so is being short. Don't think that being tall means you have to be gangly, awkward, or unappealing. Plenty of beautiful women are tall, and they know how to own their tall look by not shying away from attention. Don't think that being tall makes you somehow inadequate or unappealing to guys. Here are some tall female celebrities, just to show you that you're not alone: Gwyneth Paltrow (5'9"), Jordin Sparks (5'9"), Charlize Theron (5'10"), Taylor Swift (5'10"), Famke Janssen (6"), and Maria Sharapova (6'2"). Don't slouch. You may think that slouching will make you look shorter, and while this is literally true, it will actually call more attention to the fact that you're not happy with your height. So stand tall and proud and don't worry about towering over the people around you -- they should be the ones wishing they were as tall as you! Don't worry about being taller than the guys. Sure, guys may be intimidated by you because you're so tall, but that doesn't mean you can't talk to them or show them how awesome you are. Don't think that you have no chance with a guy just because he's shorter than you. If you find a guy you like, get to know him and you'll see that height is just a number. Remember that the grass is always greener on the other side. You may be feeling miserable because you feel like you're taller than all of your friends and that all of your shorts are too short, but your short friend may hate having to stand on her tip-toes to talk to people or having to hem all of her jeans by half a foot so that they'll fit her. You may not want to be tall, but plenty of girls would die to be in your shoes! Whether you're tall or short, it's all about embracing who you are instead of wishing you were someone else. | See if you're taller than most of the girls you know. See if you have a hard time finding clothes that fit you. See if everyone around you asks if you play basketball or volleyball. See if you're taller than 5'6". See if you're just hitting puberty earlier than other people. See if you can never blend in when you're in a crowd. See if you never have enough legroom. See if you tower over most of the guys your age. See if you feel guilty for always blocking everyone's view when you go to a concert or the movies. Remember that tall is beautiful. Don't slouch. Don't worry about being taller than the guys. Remember that the grass is always greener on the other side. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Handle-a-Fair-Weather-Friendship | How to Handle a Fair Weather Friendship | Having a fairweather friendship can be frustrating, but if you do what's best for yourself, you'll have an easier time moving on. If you think your friend might be able to change, consider talking to them about the issue, since some people may just not realize what they're doing. However, if your friend often avoids you when you're down or makes excuses not to talk, you might want to move on from the friendship. If you want to gradually distance yourself, start communicating less via text and social media. Then, make excuses if they ask you to hang out. Alternatively, you might want to have a face-to-face conversation to clearly communicate that you want to end the friendship. | Determine if your friend can change. You may have a friend who isn't around when things get difficult, but that doesn't mean they can't change. Think about your friend's personality and passions. If you told them that they tend to disappear when negative things happen, what do you think their reaction would be? If your friend already knows that they tend to run away at any sign of trouble, sharing with them that this hurts you may not do any good. However, if your friend is oblivious to this character flaw, sharing it with them might show them something they didn't realize about themselves, and they may be motivated to change. Decide if you can keep being friends. Whether or not your friend would change if you told them that their behavior hurts you, you need to think about whether or not you can remain friends with them as they are now—that is, as fair weather friends. It usually takes people a long time to change if they change at all. If you think you want to stay friends, you have to let go of your expectations for this friend to be there for you. Once you do this, you may be able to have a normal friendship. If you decide that you don't want to be friends anymore, you should act on this decision. Avoid becoming emotionally dependent. If you decide to stay friends with a fair weather friend, you must let go of your expectations that they can be relied upon. This means not sharing emotionally charged or privileged information with them anymore. If they can't be there for you in hard times, they are not someone who can support you at all. Limit the things you share with them. For example, don't tell them things such as family secrets. If a friend can't be relied on to be available during hard times, they can't be trusted at all, not even to keep secrets. End the friendship if necessary. If you have thought about your friend and realized you don't have time to waste on someone who doesn't understand the basic give and take of friendships, you might want to end the friendship. There are a few ways to do this, including gradual backing off and confronting your friend directly. The slowly backing off approach is usually easier, but may leave your friend feeling mystified and sad, as well as lacking closure. This approach may also end with your friend gossiping about you out of hurt. Confronting your friend directly is painful for both parties, but it can be the best way because it shows that you respect your friend enough to communicate clearly. Recognize that it is normal to end friendships at different times of life. Studies show that people make a lot of friends in their late teens, have fewer friends in their 20s as they are settling down and having children, have more friends in their 30s as they get used to having kids, and then start shutting people out again in their 40s and 50s as they decide what is most valuable in life. You may be in one of these stages of life, and you can explain that this is why you are ending a friendship. Take the gradual approach. One way to end a friendship that is not mutually beneficial is to simply back off from your friend. If your friendship is already touchy—for example, your friend doesn't expect much out of you just like you don't expect much out of them—this approach may work better because the bond is already less strong than with close friends. With close friends, this approach can be painful because your friend doesn't know why you're backing off which can trigger feelings of rejection. Start by communicating less frequently via text, phone, and social media. Comment on their photos and statuses less often, don't answer their texts, and dodge their phone calls more and more often. Stop sharing as much personal information with this friend, such as family secrets. When you confide in someone, that strengthens a bond. When you don't confide, this sends the message that you don't trust them as much. The downside of this approach is that you might never get a sense of closure, and your friend's feelings of rejection can push them to cause drama like gossip and spreading rumors. Make excuses. When you have decided to end a friendship with someone because you don't want to deal with their lack of responsibility anymore, one thing you can start doing immediately is backing off from the friendship by making excuses. Try to make these real things rather than white lies so that your friend is not further offended. ”I have other plans” is one excuse that you can make. ”I'm busy” is another way to make excuses for not spending time with your fair weather friend. Take the direct approach. The other way to end a friendship is to tell your friend what you feel and have decided without being vague about it. This direct approach is useful if you have already tried the gradual backing off approach and your friend isn't getting the message. This is also useful if your friend has hurt you deeply and you need to get them out of your life fast. Face-to-face conversation is best for the direct approach. This way there is no risk of miscommunication, and you can clearly emphasize your intentions with your tone of voice and body language. This clear communication also avoids gossip and backbiting because you are taking guessing out of the equation. You won't avoid hurting their feelings no matter what approach you take, but at least this way you give them an opportunity to clearly communicate it. Send a long email or letter. If you feel uncomfortable with a face-to-face meeting, you can try the direct approach in an email or written letter, especially if you and your friend often communicate through these channels (or if you know that your friend likes to read letters). This way you can articulate your feelings, think about what you want to say, and make sure that your intentions are clear. Don't send a text, even if that is how you communicate most often with this friend. Texts are generally viewed as quick, casual chatting, and that is not the correct setting for a friendship-ending letter. Avoid putting them down. Don't add insult to injury by putting down your friend for their foibles and character flaws. Even though you are probably angry about their behavior, be kind and civil about your decision. They are already going to feel bad enough that you don't want them around anymore. Make “I” statements, such as, “I am in a new stage of life now,” rather than “you” statements like, “You have let me down one too many times.” Tell your friend how you feel, not how they have made you feel. Explain that you are doing this because of you, not because of them. Offer to try the friendship again later in life. You might ask your friend if you can revisit the friendship again in a few months, after each of you has had time to think about if this friendship is the best thing for your lives. By then, your fair weather friend may have poured their energy into other people and not have room in their life for you anymore, letting you off the hook. This approach doesn't eliminate all feelings off hurt, but it may minimize them because you aren't shutting down your friend completely, just temporarily. Unfriend them on social media. Another way to communicate that you are trying to move on without your friend is unfriending them on social media sites where you have a connection, such as Facebook and Instagram. Although this blunt disconnection will most likely hurt your friend, it does communicate that you want to end the friendship in real life. Look for patterns. It is important to distinguish fair weather friends from real friends before you decide who you need to “unfriend.” You want to look for patterns such as not being available when you need a shoulder to cry on and avoiding talking about negative things. You may also find that this friend is insulting, insensitive, and needy without giving in return. Think about what they do when you ask to process an event or emotion. Do they make excuses so that they don't have to talk about it? When you are with them, do they tend to keep the conversation about things that are meaningless or at least lack depth? Be objective. When evaluating your friendships and deciding who needs to go, you need to remain objective. Don't be tempted to give in to this friend and make excuses for them. You may need to ask others in your life that you know for certain are not fair weather people for their perspective. They may be able to identify patterns that you can't see. Ask yourself serious questions. You may need to get serious with yourself and ask questions to determine if someone close to you is a fair weather friend. Ask questions like, does this person make jokes at my expense? Do they take resources from me without paying me back? Do they use me? Fair weather people tend to be untrustworthy, and lots of behavior goes with this: making a big deal out of small things, only thinking of themselves, sharing secrets and spreading rumors, and so on. | Determine if your friend can change. Decide if you can keep being friends. Avoid becoming emotionally dependent. End the friendship if necessary. Recognize that it is normal to end friendships at different times of life. Take the gradual approach. Make excuses. Take the direct approach. Send a long email or letter. Avoid putting them down. Offer to try the friendship again later in life. Unfriend them on social media. Look for patterns. Be objective. Ask yourself serious questions. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Quick-and-Easy-Divorce | How to Get a Quick and Easy Divorce | Whether your divorce will be quick and easy depends on the reason for your divorce, and how quickly you and your spouse can come to an agreement. However, you can help speed up the process by filing for divorce at your country court and giving your spouse a copy of the complaint as soon as you can. That way, you can be scheduled a court date as early as possible if you need to appear in front of a judge. You and your spouse will also need to work out an agreement on issues like child custody, alimony, and property division. If you have trouble discussing these issues, try hiring a professional mediator, who can help you work out a compromise. You should also consider hiring a divorce attorney to ensure you fill out your forms correctly, since missing or incorrect information can cause delays. | Fill out a Summons. The first step in getting a divorce is telling the court that you would like to dissolve your marriage. The specifics of this will depend on your state and county, so contact your local court to obtain the correct papers. There may be additional forms such as a marriage petition, property declaration, or other declarations pertaining to your relationship. Make sure you have found all the forms necessary for filing in your state. Fill out the papers on a computer or using blue or black ink as clearly as possible. If you find the forms difficult to navigate you may want to consider hiring someone to assist you. If you and your spouse are separating amicably, agree which one of you will start the process as court proceedings usually have a plaintiff and defendant (or petitioner and respondent). It does not matter much, but the plaintiff may have slightly more to do. Some states do also allow Joint Petitioning, in the simplest cases. If you have no children and little shared property, check if there is a marriage dissolution packet available at your local court. Have the dissolution forms reviewed. There are many states that offer free legal advice at family courts so take advantage if it is available to you. You can also consider hiring legal counsel to make sure the process goes smoothly. Some attorneys can be hired just to help with certain tasks, and in some cases paralegals can be hired to complete forms, so it does not have to be as expensive as you might think. Make additional copies. Keep a copy of the summons for yourself. You will also need a copy for your spouse. The original is to be filed with the court. File the papers. You will turn in the original as well as the copies to the county clerk. Your papers will be reviewed and, presuming everything is in order, stamped as "filed." The court will retain the original summons and any other papers as the official beginning of divorce proceedings. They will return the copies for both parties to you with the "filed" stamp. This stamp means your divorce is officially underway. Serve your spouse. Whether you and your significant other have been in contact during this process or not, the court needs to know that your spouse is officially aware that the divorce is a concern of the court. Your spouse can receive their copy of the papers from anyone over 18, other than you. It can be a friend or family member, or a hired professional server. The plaintiff is not allowed to serve the papers. In many states you can also deliver them by certified mail, as long as the other party is willing to fill out an acknowledgment of receipt form. For example, in Michigan the server can send the papers by certified mail , although you are still not permitted to be that person. However, in Washington DC, service by certified mail is acceptable from the plaintiff. File proof of service. If your spouse receives the forms from a personal server, the server has to provide you with a form attesting to this that can be filed with the court. If your spouse accepted service by mail, it may be your duty to file the return receipt with the court. Decide with your spouse that you want to make an agreement. In order to get a quick and easy divorce in any state, you will need to write up an agreement with your spouse on all contestable issues. If you are at odds emotionally or practically from the start, it will be difficult to work out these details. In many cases it may be useful to hire a mediator to assist you even when things seems straightforward. A mediator is a legal professional who works for both of you. If you have children or complex finances you may also want to consider hiring lawyers to draw up your divorce contract even if you are in general agreement. The right lawyer does not have to make the divorce into a battle but can just make sure you are filing things to your best interests. If you hire lawyers, each side should have their own, although they can still work amicably. Reach an agreement about property distribution. You will need to decide who gets every piece of personal and real property that you, your spouse, or the two of you own. This includes but is not limited to bank and investment accounts, vehicles, and real estate. Anything which is legally owned would most easily be divided in half or according to the party whose name is on it, but sometimes married couples do not worry about putting names on property with a concern for possible separation. Be fair about the how the property was understood during the marriage. This also includes personal items, furnishings, gifts, artwork and memorabilia. Divide any debt fairly. Debts accrued during the marriage should be divided between you and spouse according to each party's ability to pay the debt, who incurred the debt, and how much property each party is receiving. A mortgage is often one of the most complicated debts to divide. If it is possible to sell the house, all that has to be agreed is the division of funds, but if one party intends to keep the house, they will have to keep the debt as well, and the bank has to approve that. In some cases, the house may have to be sold even if that wasn't the original plan, simply because one party cannot shoulder the full mortgage alone. Credit card debt should be divided at separation, even if it is just onto other credit cards. Try not to keep your finances entangled. In some states, even credit card debt that is not in your name but that was incurred by your spouse during the marriage may be your liability. Consider alimony or spousal support. If you or your spouse has been out of the workforce in order to raise children, take care of a family member, or because of a disability, alimony or spousal support may be warranted. Be careful when agreeing to pay alimony or spousal support, as you may not be able to modify that agreement later Reach an agreement on child custody and visitation rights. If you have children, you will need to decide which party the children will live with (the custodial parent) and how often and when the children will visit with the other party (the non-custodial parent). Most states have plans or worksheets of some kind available to help couples come to agreements on this issue. For example, Indiana offers "Parenting Time Guidelines" , which spell out particular times the non-custodial parent should have parenting time, or visitation, with the children. Some states will leave the issue more open but still provide assistance to make the best decision for the child. Check what the law requires in your state's parenting guidelines. Come to an agreement on child support. All states have laws, which presume that the non-custodial parent should pay child support to the custodial parent. To determine how much child support should be paid in your situation, check your state's website for a child support worksheet or calculator. You can locate your state's website by following the appropriate link from the Internal Revenue Service's (“IRS”) State Government Websites page. Write up your agreement. As you make these decisions, keep things in writing, and when you have covered everything, type up the official agreement so that both of you are satisfied with the language and level of detail. Check with your local court whether to have such a document signed and notarized, or whether it will be more useful referentially for filling out official court forms. Locate the proper forms. Many states offer state-approved forms for uncontested or agreed divorces. Other states do not, so you may have to spend some time and possibly some money to obtain the correct forms. To locate the proper forms: Visit your state's website by following the appropriate link from the Internal Revenue Service's (“IRS”) State Government Websites page. Use a search engine to search “YOUR STATE divorce forms”. For example, if you lived in Texas, you would search “Texas divorce forms”. Check with your County Clerk's Office. If the forms aren't available online, call or stop in and ask for a copy of the forms you need. Complete the forms. Follow all of the instructions that came with your forms. If you did not get instructions, try to answer every question as completely as possible, while remaining brief. Type or print in blue or black ink when filling out court forms. Write clearly and do not skip portions. Divorce papers will often include several affidavits or unclear legalistic forms, so be prepared to spend some time getting things in order. If you need help, check with the court clerk and/or local bar association to see if your jurisdiction offers free or low cost assistance to pro-se parties. File the forms with the proper court. Your forms should be filed in the county in which you or the other party resides. Check with the court clerk's office if you are unsure which court in your county handles divorces. You will need to submit more than one copy of each form as well as a filing fee, so call the Clerk's office first, to find out how many copies of each document you should bring, what the filing will be, and what forms of payment are accepted. Attend any necessary hearings. Uncontested or agreed divorces generally do not require the parties to appear in court, but some jurisdictions may conduct a brief hearing. Be sure to attend any hearings the court schedules and bring any documentation it requests. Be punctual if you are required to attend any official hearings. Plan your day so that you can be sure to arrive early. Dress conservatively. You don't need to go out and buy a new suit or outfit - just find a clean, well fitting, and as respectable as possible set of clothing. A nice button down shirt and a pressed pair of slacks will do the trick. A man can add a tie and a woman might prefer a long skirt. Be respectful in court. Address the judge as "Your Honor" and "Sir" or "Ma'am". Stand when speaking and spoken to. Complete any necessary classes, courses, and/or tests. Many states have parenting classes and education courses that some or all divorcing parents are required to take before a divorce will be granted. Check with the county clerk, the court, or an attorney to determine if there are any instructional courses you need to take in order to have your divorced granted. Obtain and file any remaining forms. Once your waiting period is over your Final Decree or Decree of Dissolution will be granted by the state. You may then be required to file this decree as well as other remaining documents as a way to confirm that it needed no modifications and was correct. If you are unsure what you need to file besides the final decree, check the instructions that came with your form, or with the Clerk of Courts. Wait for a copy of your decree. Once the Judge signs your final decree, the court will mail you a certified copy of the decree or a notice telling you it is ready for you to pick up. If you do not receive anything from the court within your state's given jurisdiction time (usually 30 days) of filing your final documents and/or attending your final hearing, call the court to inquire. The court typically allows a standard length of time during which modifications, corrections or reforms can be filed by either party. | Fill out a Summons. Have the dissolution forms reviewed. Make additional copies. File the papers. Serve your spouse. File proof of service. Decide with your spouse that you want to make an agreement. Reach an agreement about property distribution. Divide any debt fairly. Consider alimony or spousal support. Reach an agreement on child custody and visitation rights. Come to an agreement on child support. Write up your agreement. Locate the proper forms. Complete the forms. File the forms with the proper court. Attend any necessary hearings. Complete any necessary classes, courses, and/or tests. Obtain and file any remaining forms. Wait for a copy of your decree. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Develop-Emotional-Intelligence | How to Develop Emotional Intelligence | To develop emotional intelligence, work on being open-minded and agreeable so you can deal with conflicts in a calm, self-assured manner. For example, try watching debates on TV and consider both sides of the argument instead of deciding who's right or wrong. You can also improve your empathy skills by putting yourself in other people's shoes and imagining how you would feel in the same situation. Additionally, observe people's reactions, like whether they seem cheerful or nervous around you, to understand your effect on others. | Note your emotional reactions to events throughout the day. It's easy to put your feelings about what you experience throughout the day on the back burner. But taking time to acknowledge how you feel about experiences is essential to improving your EQ. If you ignore your feelings, you're ignoring important information that has a big effect on your mindset and the way you behave. Start paying more attention to your feelings and connecting them to experiences. For example, say you're at work and you get cut off during a meeting. What emotions arise when this happens? On the other hand, how do you feel when you get praised for good work? Getting into the practice of naming your emotions as sadness, embarrassment, joy, contentment, or any other number of feelings will start raising your EQ right away. Get in the habit of tapping into your emotions at certain times every day. What are your first emotions upon waking? Your last before you fall asleep? Pay attention to your body. Instead of ignoring the physical manifestations of your emotions, start listening to them. Our minds and bodies are not separate; they affect each other quite deeply. You can raise your EQ by learning how to read physical cues that clue you in to what emotions you're feeling. For example: Stress might feel like a knot in your stomach, tight chest, or quick breathing. Sadness might feel like waking up with slow, heavy limbs. Joy, pleasure or nervousness might feel like butterflies in your stomach, a racing heart or increased energy. Observe how your emotions and behavior are connected. When you feel strong emotions, how do you react? Tune into your gut responses to situations you face every day, instead of just reacting without any reflection. The more you understand what spurs your behavioral impulses, the higher your EQ will be, and you'll be able to use what you know to actually change your behavior in the future. Here are some examples of behaviors and what's behind them: Feeling embarrassed or insecure might cause you to withdraw from conversation and disconnect. Feeling angry might cause you to raise your voice or angrily stomp away. Feeling overwhelmed might cause you to panic and lose track of what you were doing, or cry. Avoid judging your own emotions. All the emotions you have are valid, even the negative ones. If you judge your emotions, you'll inhibit your ability to fully feel, making it more difficult to use your emotions in positive ways. Think of it this way: every emotion you have is a new piece of useful information connected to something that's happening in your world. Without this information, you'd be left in the dark about how to adequately react. That's why the ability to feel your emotions is a form of intelligence. It's hard at first, but practice letting negative emotions surface and connecting them to what's happening. For example, if you feel bitterly envious, what is that emotion telling you about your situation? Fully experience positive emotions, too. Connect your joy or satisfaction to what's happening around you, so you can learn how to feel them more often. Notice patterns in your emotional history. It's another way to learn as much as you can about your own feelings and how they're connected to your experiences. When you have a strong emotion, ask yourself when you last felt like this. What happened before, during and after? When you see patterns, you can exert more control over your behavior. Observe how you handled a certain situation before, and how you'd like to handle it next time. Keep a journal of your emotional reactions, or how you feel from day to day, so you can clearly see how you tend to react. Practice deciding how to behave. You can't help what emotions you feel, but you can stay connected to something that's happening in your world. Without this information, you would be left in the dark about how to adequately react. That is why the ability to feel your emotions is a form of intelligence. It's hard at first, but practice letting negative emotions surface and connecting them to what's happening. For example, if you feel bitterly envious, what is that emotion telling you about your situation? Fully experience positive emotions, too. Connect your joy or satisfaction to what's happening around you, so you can learn how to feel that more often. Practice deciding how to behave. You can't help what emotions you feel, but you can decide how you want to react to them. If you have an issue with lashing out in anger or shutting down when you're hurt, think about how you'd rather react. Instead of letting your emotions overwhelm you, decide how you're going to behave next time your feelings grow strong. When something negative happens in your life, take a moment to feel your emotions. Some people describe it as having a wave of sadness or anger wash over them. Once the initial wave has passed, make a decision about how you want to behave. Decide to communicate your feelings instead of repressing them, or get up and try again instead of throwing in the towel. Don't turn to escapist habits. It's not easy to let bad feelings fully rise to the surface, and many people tamp them down by drinking too much, watching a lot of TV, or turning to other habits that numb the pain. Do this often enough, and your EQ will begin to suffer. Be open-minded and agreeable. Openness and being agreeable go hand-in-hand when it comes to emotional intelligence. A narrow mind is generally an indication of a lower EQ. When your mind is open through understanding and internal reflection, it becomes easier to deal with conflicts in a calm and self-assured manner. You will find yourself socially aware and new possibilities will be open to you. To strengthen this element of your EQ, consider: Listening to debates on television or the radio. Consider both sides of the argument, and look for the subtleties that require closer inspection. When someone does not react emotionally the same way you would, consider why this is, and try to see it from their point of view. Improve your empathy skills. Empathy means being able to recognize how other people are feeling, and share emotions with them. Being a more active listener and really paying attention to what people are saying can help you get a better sense of how they're feeling. When you can use that information to inform your decisions and improve your relationships, that's a sign of emotional intelligence. To improve empathy, put yourself in other people's shoes. Think about how you would feel if you were in their situation. Actively imagine how it must be to go through the experiences they're having and what might alleviate some of their hardship in terms of support and care. When you see someone experience a strong emotion, ask yourself, “How would I react in the same situation?” Be truly interested in what people are saying, so you can react in a sensitive way. Instead of letting your thoughts drift, ask questions and summarize what they're saying so it's clear you're in the conversation. Read people’s body language. Make a point of trying to read between the lines and pick up on people's true feelings by observing their facial expressions and other body language. Often people say one thing when the look on their face reveals that there's a deeper truth. Practice being more observant and picking up on the less obvious ways that people communicate their emotions. If you're not sure that you're skilled at interpreting facial expressions, try taking a quiz to telling. A higher tone of voice indicates that someone's stressed. See the effect you have on others. Understanding other people's emotions is only half the battle when it comes to EQ; you also need to understand the effect you're having on other people. Do you tend to make people feel nervous, cheerful or angry? What happens to conversation when you walk in the room? Think about what patterns you might need to change. If you tend to pick fights with your loved ones, your girlfriend cries easily during conversations, or people tend to close up a bit when you come around, you might need to change your attitude so that you have a better emotional effect on people. Ask trusted friends or loved ones what they think about your emotionality where you have room for improvement. A person's tone of voice can also be of impact. You may have trouble recognizing the effect you have on others, and they can help. Practice being emotionally honest. If you say you're “fine” and have a scowl on your face, you're not communicating honestly. Practice being more physically open with your emotions, so people can read you better. Tell people when you're upset, and share happiness and joy as well. Being "yourself" helps other people really get to know you, and they'll trust you more if they see where you're coming from. However, understand that there's a line: control your emotions so as not to hurt others with them. See where you have room for improvement. Being intellectually capable is important in life, but being emotionally intelligent is just as essential. Having high emotional intelligence can lead to better relationships and job opportunities. There are four core elements to emotional intelligence that help you lead a balanced life. Read this over and decide where you might have room for improvement, then take steps to practice your skills in that area: Self awareness: The ability to recognize your own emotions for what they are and understand their origins. Self-awareness means knowing your strengths and limitations. Self management: The ability to delay gratification, balance your needs with those of others, take initiative and to pull back on impulsivity. Self-management means being able to cope with change and to stay committed. Social awareness: The ability to be attuned to other people's emotions and concerns, as well as being able to notice and adapt to social cues. Being socially aware means being able to see the power dynamics at play within any group or in an organizational context. Relationship management: The ability to get along well with others, manage conflict , inspire and influence people and to communicate clearly. Lower your stress level by raising your EQ. Stress is a catchall word for feeling overwhelmed by a variety of different emotions. Life is filled with difficult situations from relationship breakdowns to job loss. In between, there are myriad stress triggers that can make any daily issue seem much more challenging than it probably is. If you're stressed a lot, it's difficult to behave in the way you want to. Having a good plan for relieving stress improves all aspects of your EQ. Figure out what triggers your stress, and what helps relieve it. Make a list of effective forms of stress relief, like hanging out with a friend or taking a walk in the woods, and put it to good use. Get help if you need it. If your stress feels too overwhelming to deal with alone, seek the help of a therapist or psychologist who can give you tools to cope (and help you raise your EQ in the process). Be more light-hearted at home and at work. When you're optimistic, it's easier to see the beauty in life and everyday objects and spread that feeling to those around you. Optimism results in emotional well being and greater opportunities – people want to be around an optimistic person and this draws them to you, with all the possibilities that more connections bring you. Negativity encourages people to focus only on what can go wrong rather than building resilience. People with high EQ tend to know how to use fun and humor to make themselves and others feel safer and happier. Use laughter to get through tough times. | Note your emotional reactions to events throughout the day. Pay attention to your body. Observe how your emotions and behavior are connected. Avoid judging your own emotions. Notice patterns in your emotional history. Practice deciding how to behave. Practice deciding how to behave. Be open-minded and agreeable. Improve your empathy skills. Read people’s body language. See the effect you have on others. Practice being emotionally honest. See where you have room for improvement. Lower your stress level by raising your EQ. Be more light-hearted at home and at work. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-to-Manage-People | How to Learn to Manage People | To learn to manage people, get to know and hold regular meetings with your team to establish open communication. When you're interacting with your team, carry and present yourself like a leader rather than a peer. Work on giving effective feedback, delegating tasks, and helping your team members prioritize their work. You can also ask Human Resources about available training or look into management courses at your local college if you want more formal instruction. | Study management styles you've been exposed to. Think back to the managers you've had in your career. Whose style worked and whose didn't? Which managers did a good job coaching and motivating people? If you are still in contact with any of them, set up an appointment to meet. Ask any questions that you have. Don't expect someone to give you the silver bullet to being a great manager. Becoming an effective manager requires time, effort, and experience. Ask Human Resources about available trainings. You'll be wearing a lot of different hats as a manager. Suddenly, you might be responsible for signing off on timesheets, hiring staff, and giving performance reviews. Ask Human Resources if there are trainings you can take to learn the nuts and bolts. Realize that you'll learn more from experience than formal training. The best way to learn to manage people is to roll up your sleeves and start working. Read books on becoming a manager. There is also a mountain of literature on how to manage people. Reading books on the topic can help you understand the experiences of others and how you can craft a management style that works best for you. Go to the bookstore or library and pick up some of the following: Blanchard and Johnson, The One Minute Manager Covey, The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People Maxwell, The 21 Irrefutable Laws of Leadership Carnegie, How to Win Friends and Influence People Take management courses. Contact your local college or university to see what is offered. Common management courses cover topics such as organizational behavior, labor-management relations, and small business management. You can ask your supervisor whether the company will cover the costs associated with the courses. If you don't have a college degree, you can work towards a bachelor's in business management. If you already have a four-year degree, consider earning a Master's in Business Administration (MBA). Think of yourself as a leader. As a manager, you now have a new professional identity. Instead of being an individual contributor with a narrow focus, you must now realize that you are responsible for setting the group's agenda. You are now a leader, not only a worker. You also aren't a peer with your former co-workers. You can expect some former peers to be envious of your new job, but remember that your focus is not to be best friends with your team. Although you don't need to be snob, you should remain a little removed from the water cooler gossip. Find a mentor. A mentor can answer any questions you have. They also will increase your stature in the eyes of upper-level management. It shows maturity to get a mentor, and they can be a huge asset. A mentor should be someone several steps up the ladder. For example, if you've just taken a treasury position, you might want the Chief Financial Officer as your mentor. Many people feel uncomfortable asking someone to be a mentor. However, the mentor-mentee relationship usually develops naturally. Take in interest in what your potential mentor is doing. Ask to serve on committees and take them out to lunch. If there's a connection, they may volunteer to take you under their wing. If a potential mentor doesn't volunteer, you might need to ask. Hire a business coach. Many executives hire coaches, but managers can get them, too. A coach is a trained professional who is focused on helping you develop your own authentic management style. You need to pay coaches, so check whether you can afford it. Fees vary by location, but you can expect to pay $50 an hour at a minimum. You can find business coaches online and on websites like LinkedIn. Google the coach's name to check their reputation. Get to know your team members. You can't manage a team until you learn more about individual team members. You need to know their strengths and weaknesses, as well as what motivates them. There are many formal and informal ways to get to know your team. Read prior employee evaluations. They should identify each employee's strengths and weaknesses. Stop and chat. One advantage of being the first to arrive and the last to leave is that you have plenty of time to talk informally with people. Ask how their job is going and what they need help with. Host a team dinner once a month and encourage staff to bring along their significant others. Pick up the tab. Seeing people interact informally can reveal a lot about what motivates them in life. Hold regular meetings with your team. You're going to have to establish a communication style. However, you won't immediately know what works with your team. At your weekly meeting, pay attention to how your team responds. Some team members might hate regular meetings and prefer communication by email. You'll need to tailor your management style to the members of your team, which might mean holding one-on-one meetings with team members to see how things are going. Learn how to give effective feedback. Giving feedback is an art, and the only way to learn is to practice. Make sure your feedback is sufficiently specific and actionable. You don't just want to boost someone's self-esteem. You want your team members to leave knowing what they should do in future situations. Use “I” language instead of “you” language. “I think it's more effective to listen when a customer complains” is better than, “You only made things worse when you argued with that customer.” Your feedback should focus on actionable solutions. Give employees concrete steps to follow. Practice listening. New managers might think they need to have all of the answers, but listening is vital. Involve your team as much as you can. Ask them what ideas they have for solving problems, and implement the ones that are sensible. Always remember to give credit where credit is due. Active listening requires that you face your team member and give them your undivided attention. Close your email and send phone calls to voicemail. Be nonjudgmental. If you immediately shoot down ideas, your team will hesitate to share with you in the future. Identify how your team fits into the organization. Every team needs goals, and company morale will suffer if your team doesn't know what it should be doing. However, new managers are often unclear themselves about what their goals should be. You need to speak to your superiors in the company. Ask how your team fits into the organization as a whole. Help employees prioritize their work. Successful teams should have a lot of work, and team members might not understand which tasks to complete first. As the manager, you can see the bigger picture. Go ahead and direct your team members as to which tasks they should complete first. Convey this information orally and in email for maximum effectiveness. Delegate to your team. Most new managers find it hard to delegate because they don't yet trust the members of their team. However, you'll quickly burn out if you don't delegate. The best way to go about delegating tasks? Start small. Give your team members minute tasks and see who does the best job. Keep going back to those who can deliver excellent results. Admit when you are wrong. You don't need to appear invulnerable. This might be hard to accept at first, especially if you aren't feeling secure in your position as manager. Nevertheless, your team will learn it's okay to admit when they are wrong and to ask for help. Reward exceptional performance. There are many types of rewards—money is only one (though usually appreciated). The reward should be on par with the exceptional performance. However, you'll need to see what works best for your employees. Consider the following: To reward a one-time exceptional performance, you can write a sincere thank-you letter. Tell your employee what they did well and thank them for their effort. Rewarding exceptional performance in staff meetings by complimenting someone who put in outstanding effort. However, some employees dislike being recognized in person, so pay attention to how they respond to know what to do and avoid in the future. To reward consistent, outstanding performance you can name an employee of the month or put on a recognition ceremony where you give someone a more substantial gift, such as a gift card. Learn how to discipline appropriately. There will inevitably be times when you need to correct behavior. Your company should have a discipline policy that you must follow. For example, some companies use progressive discipline: you start with a verbal warning and then give a written warning, followed by more severe discipline. Ask Human Resources about the policy and follow it to a “T.” Discipline is more than punishment, however. It also gives you a chance to intervene in your employee's negative behaviors. If necessary, point them in the direction of your employee assistance program (EAP), where they can get help for addiction, financial problems, and relationship issues. Learn from your mistakes. When the workplace is your classroom, you should receive instant feedback about your shortcomings as a manager: you won't meet your team goals, employees will quit on you, and so on. Take time to reflect on what you did wrong, if anything. Lean on your mentor or coach to help you understand areas of improvement. | Study management styles you've been exposed to. Ask Human Resources about available trainings. Read books on becoming a manager. Take management courses. Think of yourself as a leader. Find a mentor. Hire a business coach. Get to know your team members. Hold regular meetings with your team. Learn how to give effective feedback. Practice listening. Identify how your team fits into the organization. Help employees prioritize their work. Delegate to your team. Admit when you are wrong. Reward exceptional performance. Learn how to discipline appropriately. Learn from your mistakes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Sponge | How to Clean a Sponge | To quickly clean a foam sponge, soak the sponge with water and put it in a microwave-safe bowl. Place the bowl in the microwave with half a cup of water, and microwave the sponge for 1 minute. When the time's up, let the sponge cool for 10 minutes before removing it from the microwave to use it. For sponges that contain metal or plastic scrubbers, place them in the top rack of the dishwasher. Run the dishwasher on the longest, hottest cycle to clean the sponge. | Soak the sponge with water and put it in a microwave-safe bowl. Run the sponge under tap water for 30 seconds, letting it become completely saturated. Don't squeeze or wring the sponge, since you want to keep as much water in it as possible. Place the wet sponge in a glass, plastic, or ceramic bowl that's safe to go in the microwave. If you don't have a microwave-safe bowl, you can place the sponge on a paper towel to catch any water that comes out of the sponge in the microwave. Place the sponge and a cup with 0.5 cups (120 mL) of water in the microwave. Position the bowl containing the sponge and the cup of water next to each other in the microwave as close together as possible. If your microwave has a spinning table, make sure both items are near the center. The cup of water will ensure that the sponge stays moist in the microwave. If it becomes too dry, the sponge can melt or catch on fire. Microwave the sponge for 1-2 minutes. Start by microwaving for one minute, which can kill up to 99% of all bacteria in the sponge. If the sponge smells bad when you open the microwave, you'll have to re-heat it. Make sure it's still wet; re-soak the sponge if it isn't. Then, microwave it for an additional 30-60 seconds. Some sponges naturally smell bad when they're hot. If the sponge smells like plastic, you don't need to reheat it. Let the sponge cool in the microwave for 10-15 minutes. Open the microwave door and let the sponge sit for at least 10 minutes before you try to pick it up or remove it from the bowl. Then, squeeze out any excess water from the sponge. Remember, the sponge will be extremely hot once you remove it from the microwave. Don't try to pick it up or remove it from the bowl until it has cooled down. Make a solution of 10% bleach in a bowl. Fill a glass, plastic, or ceramic bowl with 9 parts water and 1 part bleach, and stir the mixture thoroughly. Make sure there's enough of the solution to submerge the sponge completely in the water. Be careful when handling bleach as it can be harmful if left on your skin for too long. This solution is strongly diluted, but you should wear a pair of rubber cleaning gloves to protect your skin from irritation. Soak the sponge in the bleach for 5-10 minutes. As it soaks, use a wooden spoon or spatula to press on the sponge to work the solution throughout the sponge. Every 2-3 minutes, pick it up and squeeze the liquid out of the sponge before putting it back in the solution. This helps ensure the bleach completely penetrates the sponge, helping the removal of stains and debris. Remove the sponge from the solution and rinse it thoroughly. After at least 5 minutes, pull the sponge out of the solution and squeeze all of the liquid out. Then, rinse the sponge with warm tap water for 30 seconds, squeezing and wringing it to clear out the bleach and any loose debris. Place the sponge on the top rack of the dishwasher for an extra deep clean. Set the dishwasher to the longest, hottest cycle, and make sure the sponge is resting on the wire rack. Select a cycle with heated drying to kill the most germs and bacteria. This method works for almost any type of sponge, including synthetic and metal scrubbers. Replace your sponge every 1-2 weeks. Sponges don't last forever, and the longer you have them, the more bacteria they hold. Try to replace your kitchen sponge weekly if you use it every day, or biweekly if you use it less often. If your sponge starts to smell bad or becomes discolored, throw it away and replace it immediately. Place the sponge on a dish to air dry between uses. Squeeze the sponge to remove excess moisture after you rinse it. Then, leave uncovered it on a dish or the edge of the sink so the sponge can dry completely in between uses. Mold and bacteria can multiply quickly in a wet sponge, especially in a warm, damp environment. Avoid using the sponge on surfaces that have touched raw meat. Instead of using a sponge, use other materials to clean up raw juices from meat. Opt for a dishcloth, washcloth, or paper towel to wipe down cutting boards and counters. Disinfectant wipes are also a good option for wiping down counters that need to be cleaned. Sponges have crevices that can harbor bacteria easily, but cloths and wipes are less absorbent. | Soak the sponge with water and put it in a microwave-safe bowl. Place the sponge and a cup with 0.5 cups (120 mL) of water in the microwave. Microwave the sponge for 1-2 minutes. Let the sponge cool in the microwave for 10-15 minutes. Make a solution of 10% bleach in a bowl. Soak the sponge in the bleach for 5-10 minutes. Remove the sponge from the solution and rinse it thoroughly. Place the sponge on the top rack of the dishwasher for an extra deep clean. Replace your sponge every 1-2 weeks. Place the sponge on a dish to air dry between uses. Avoid using the sponge on surfaces that have touched raw meat. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Perform-a-Water-Fast | How to Perform a Water Fast | To successfully perform a water fast, drink 9-13 cups of water spread throughout each day. For your first fast, start with one day of fasting at a time, and never fast for longer than 3 days. If you have strong hunger pains during the fast, drink a glass of water and lie down to rest until the hunger passes. When it's time to break your fast, drink a small glass of orange or lemon juice, and start slowly by eating small amounts of food every 2 hours. If you're considering doing a water fast, consult your doctor to confirm that it's safe for you. | Do not fast if you have certain medical conditions. Some medical conditions can be worsened by fasting and can lead to serious health consequences. Do not do a water fast if you have any of the following, unless specifically approved by your doctor: Any eating disorder like anorexia or bulimia Low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) or diabetes Enzyme deficiency Late stage kidney or liver disease Alcoholism Thyroid dysfunction AIDS, tuberculosis, or infectious disease Late stage cancer Lupus Vascular disease or poor circulation Heart disease, including heart failure, arrhythmias (especially atrial fibrillation), history of a heart attack, valve problems, or cardiomyopathy Alzheimer's disease or organic brain syndrome Post-transplant Paralysis Pregnant or breastfeeding Taking medication you cannot stop taking Select a length of time to do your water fast. Consider starting with a 1-day water fast. Limit your water fast to 3 days if you're doing it on your own. Some evidence suggests that just a 1-3 day short-term fast can have health benefits. If you intend to fast longer than that, only do so under medical supervision – such as at a fasting retreat where you're supervised by a medical professional. It is probably safer and may offer more health benefits to fast for short times periodically, rather than doing a long fast (over 3 days). Consider doing a water fast for one day out of the week at the most. Fast during a low-stress time. Plan your water fast for when you will not be under a lot of stress and when fasting won't interfere with your daily routine. Whenever possible, avoid working while fasting. Save your fast for a day that you can just rest. Prepare mentally. The idea of fasting for multiple days can be daunting. Talk to your doctor, read books on the subject by reputable authors, and converse with others who have fasted. View the fast as an adventure. Transition into your fast. Rather than jumping straight in to your water fast, start small. Start to eliminate sugar, processed foods, and caffeine from your diet at least 2-3 days before your fast, and eat mostly fruits and vegetables. Also consider reducing the size of your meals for several weeks leading up to your fast. This can help prepare your body for what's to come, and make the transition to water mentally easier. Consider using intermittent fasting to lead into your water fast. Such a plan could spread over the course of a month: Week 1: Don't eat breakfast Week 2: Skip both breakfast and lunch Week 3: Skip breakfast and lunch and decrease your portion for dinner Week 4: Begin your water fast Drink 9-13 glasses of water a day. In general, men should drink around 13 cups of water and other fluids daily (about 3 liters), and women should aim for 9 cups (2.2 liters). You can stick to the daily recommended amount of water during your water fast. Choose the purest water you can, or drink distilled water. Don't drink all that water at once! Spread out your water consumption throughout the day. Try setting out three 1-liter jugs every day, so you can see how much water you should drink. Don't drink more water than the recommended amount, as this can throw off the balance of salt and minerals in your body and cause health problems. Drinking enough water while you're fasting is important so you don't get dehydrated. Combat bouts of hunger. If you get strong hunger pangs, work through it by drinking 1-2 glasses of water. Then lie down and rest. The craving will usually pass. You can also try distracting yourself by reading or meditating. Break your fast slowly and gradually. Break your fast with orange or lemon juice first. Then proceed to add foods to your diet gradually. Eat small amounts about every 2 hours, at first. Proceed in a stepwise process from easily digested foods to foods that are harder to digest. Depending on the length of your fast, you can spread this process out over one day or many days: Fruit juice Vegetable juice Raw fruit and green leafy vegetables Yogurt Vegetable soup and cooked vegetables Cooked grains and beans Milk, dairy, and eggs Meat, fish, and poultry Everything else Eat a healthy diet regularly. Fasting won't help your health much if you return to eating high-fat and high-sugar foods afterwards. Follow a diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and low in bad fats and refined sugar. Exercise for 30 minutes five days a week. Live a healthy lifestyle to improve your health and wellbeing, and let fasting be only a small part of that. Visit your doctor before water fasting. If you're thinking about doing a water fast, consult your healthcare provider. Though fasting may offer health benefits for some people, others should avoid it. Be sure to discuss your medications and medical conditions with your doctor to determine if water fasting is safe for you. They will likely perform a physical exam and possibly do some blood tests. If you take medication, you will have to discuss with your doctor whether to continue to take your medication while fasting, or if any dose changes need to occur. Fast under supervision of a trained professional. It's best to fast only with a doctor's supervision and input, especially if you're fasting over 3 days or have any medical conditions. Find a doctor who is trained in fasting and have them guide you and monitor your condition during the fast. Ask your primary doctor to supervise you or suggest another professional who can. Avoid dizziness. After 2-3 days of water fasting you may experience dizziness if you stand up too quickly. Avoid this by getting up slowly and doing some deep breathing before standing. If you do get dizzy, immediately sit or lie down until it passes. You can also try putting your head between your knees. If you become so dizzy that you lose consciousness, stop fasting and see your doctor. Differentiate normal from abnormal side effects. It's not uncommon to feel some dizziness, a little weakness, nausea, or occasional skipped heartbeats while fasting. However, stop fasting and seek medical attention if you lose consciousness, feel confused, have more heart palpitations than one or two a day, have severe stomach discomfort or headache, or any other symptom that feels alarming to you. Get plenty of rest during your water fast. You may experience a drop in stamina and energy during this time. Don't overexert yourself. Maintain healthy sleep patterns. Fasting is all about rest - physical, emotional, sensory and physiological. If you feel like napping, nap. Read uplifting material. Listen to your body and don't push yourself physically. If you feel tired and “out of it,” do not operate a vehicle. Avoid intense exercise during this time. Your energy may fluctuate between feeling weak and tired and feeling energetic. Even when you have lots of energy, don't exert yourself. Instead, try gentle, restorative yoga. Yoga is a calming way of stretching your muscles and getting some light exercise. Yoga and light stretching may feel good to some people, and be too vigorous for others. Listen to your body and only do what feels comfortable. Avoid strenuous activities during your fast since they can put a strain on your body when you're not taking in any calories. | Do not fast if you have certain medical conditions. Select a length of time to do your water fast. Fast during a low-stress time. Prepare mentally. Transition into your fast. Drink 9-13 glasses of water a day. Combat bouts of hunger. Break your fast slowly and gradually. Eat a healthy diet regularly. Visit your doctor before water fasting. Fast under supervision of a trained professional. Avoid dizziness. Differentiate normal from abnormal side effects. Get plenty of rest during your water fast. Avoid intense exercise during this time. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Concierge | How to Become a Concierge | To become a concierge, start by graduating from high school, since a high school diploma is the minimum requirement for most jobs. Then, take classes in hospitality or hotel management online or at your local community college. Alternatively, consider pursuing a 2- or 4-year degree in tourism, hospitality, or hotel management, which may lead to better-paying jobs. At the same time, try working at places like a hotel, restaurant, or travel company to gain experience in the hospitality or tourism industry. | Earn at least a high school diploma. Concierge jobs generally do not require a college degree. The minimum requirement for most positions is a high school diploma. An associate's or bachelor's degree in tourism, hospitality, or hotel management may be helpful for better paying jobs. Some community colleges may offer a certificate in hospitality. This takes less time than an associate's degree, but it still looks good on a resume. Take a tourism or hospitality course. If you want to improve your knowledge of the tourism industry, check local universities and community colleges for classes in hospitality or hotel management. You may even be able to take an online course. National organizations, like the National Association of Professional Organizers or Les Clefs d'Ors, may also offer courses. Experience your community like a tourist would. To offer your guests honest advice, you will need to know about all of the amenities and services your local area offers. Eat at various restaurants, and visit local attractions. Repeat this every six to twelve months after you get a job, so that you understand what's trendy and new. You should research local: Restaurants. Museums. Spas. Gyms. Grocery stores. Parks. Theaters. Shopping. Find work within the hospitality or tourism sector. If you do not have any experience in tourism, you may want to find a part-time job in other service sectors. This will give you some experience that may help when applying to be a concierge. Some jobs that may be relevant include: Hotel receptionist. Tour guide. Valet. Personal assistant. Hotel or restaurant manager. Tailor your resume to the job description. Write your resume specifically for the job of concierge. To do this, read over concierge job descriptions, and make your experience fit the requirements. Emphasize strong skills in communication, multitasking, and time management. On your resume, highlight any experience in tourism, customer service, or management. If you speak another language, make sure you indicate how fluent you are. You might indicate if you are a native speaker, completely fluent, or just conversational. Apply for jobs at hotels and other service corporations. Most concierges work at hotels, although jobs will occasionally appear at travel agencies, office buildings, apartment buildings, and cruise ships. You may even find job listings for private clients. You can look for these jobs both on specialized hotel or tourism job boards or on general career websites, like Monster or Indeed. Ace the interview. The interview is a great opportunity for you to demonstrate your strong communication and interpersonal skills. The interviewer may ask questions about your previous experience in tourism, ability to interact with guests, and problem solving skills. Some potential interview questions include: How would you handle a difficult or angry guest? You might give an example of how you handled such guests, customers, or clients in the past. Emphasize how calm and rational you were in the situation. Have you ever had any unusual requests in the past? How did you respond? Choose a story where you solved the problem to everyone's satisfaction. If you have no experience in hotels, you might talk about when a coworker, boss, or friend asked for something difficult. What tours, restaurants, or activities would you recommend in this area? Pretend the recruiter is a guest in this situation. Give them at least three good recommendations. Can you work nights and weekends? Be honest with this question, as the recruiters may be looking for someone to fill specific hours. Greet people as they enter the building. Concierges typically work in the reception or lobby of a building. You should welcome guests as they enter in a friendly and upbeat manner. If it looks as if they need help with anything, offer your services. You can say, "Welcome to our hotel! Is there anything I can assist you with?" Prepare to answer any question guests might have. It is your job to make sure that any questions that a guest has can be answered. While most people will ask for local recommendations, be prepared to answer almost anything. Common questions include: “Where is a good place to eat?” “Where can I exercise or run?” “What activities are good to do with children?” “Where can I do laundry?" More unusual questions might include: “Where can I watch international sports games?” "Is it possible to get a private viewing of the museum?" "Can you get us backstage passes to a concert?" If you are ever asked to do something illegal or immoral, respond politely, “I'm sorry, but I cannot arrange that for you.” Fulfill requests as asked. Concierges may be asked to run errands for guests, or they may need to fill in at the reception desk occasionally. Be prepared to do whatever task is asked of you. Some common requests that you might encounter include: Calling a cab for guests. Ordering or picking up food to be sent up to guests' rooms. Making airline or car rental reservations. Picking up flowers, balloons, or other celebratory items. Buying theater or event tickets. Ask the guests questions to learn what they want. Every guest is different. When your guest requests a recommendation, ask them questions about what types of food, atmosphere, experience, and activities they enjoy. For example, if you are asked for a restaurant recommendation, ask the guest, “What type of food are you in the mood for? Will there be children coming? Are you interested in live music while you eat?” If they ask you for an activity recommendation, you might ask, “Do you want to be outdoors or inside? Do you enjoy cultural activities like art and theater? How much do you want to spend?" Get certification if you want to qualify for higher paid jobs. Once you have your first job, you can apply for certification. While not required for most jobs, higher paid positions at four or five star hotels may only be open to certified concierges. Certifying organizations include the Les Clefs d'Or and the National Concierge Association. While it varies from organization to organization, certification usually involves completing a course and taking an exam. Some organizations, such as the Society of the Golden Keys, require you to be sponsored by an already certified member. | Earn at least a high school diploma. Take a tourism or hospitality course. Experience your community like a tourist would. Find work within the hospitality or tourism sector. Tailor your resume to the job description. Apply for jobs at hotels and other service corporations. Ace the interview. Greet people as they enter the building. Prepare to answer any question guests might have. Fulfill requests as asked. Ask the guests questions to learn what they want. Get certification if you want to qualify for higher paid jobs. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Add-Concrete-to-Existing-Concrete | How to Add Concrete to Existing Concrete | To lay new concrete, sweep and clean the old concrete, and saturate the old concrete with water. Then, build a perimeter, or a wood brace, that is the same height as you want the concrete to be. Make sure the braces are level, and lay down a barrier of wire mesh over the existing concrete inside of the barrier. Pour and spread a thin later of scratch coat, and then add a bond layer on top of the coat. Mix and pour the concrete according to the package instructions, and spread the concrete with a trowel before spraying it with a curing compound. | Sweep dirt and debris off the concrete. The old concrete needs to be completely clean or else anything you pour over it won't bond to it. The first order of business is to remove gravel, leaves, sand, and dirt. Get as much of it off the concrete as you can. Push the debris off the concrete surface or collect it in a bag to throw away. Use a stiff-bristled broom to knock as much debris out of cracks as possible. Use a pressure washer to clean out the remaining debris. You won't get all of the hidden debris at first, so you will need to give the concrete a more thorough cleaning. Use a fan tip on the pressure washer with a PSI of about 3,000 and hold it about 6 in (15 cm) above the concrete. Sweep the nozzle slowly over the concrete, making sure you hit every area. If you don't own a pressure washer, check home improvement stores in your area. You may be able to rent a washer from them. You can add a liquid detergent or degreaser to the water to ensure you get all stubborn spots, including those from mildew and algae. Scrub difficult spots with chemical products. Purchase a commercial cleaner formulated for use on concrete. Pour it onto tough stains you can't otherwise remove, then work the cleaner in with a stiff-bristled scrub brush. When you're done, rinse the area with a hose. This can help remove stains from oil and sap, which are very difficult to get rid of once they set in. Most home improvement stores sell these cleaners. Look for ones that are effective against oil. Another option is to use trisodium phosphate (TSP). Follow the manufacturer's instructions to mix the TSP powder with water into a paste. Try mixing about 1 fl oz (30 mL) per.125 fl oz (3.7 mL) of water. If commercial cleaners and TSP don't work, you may need to get muriatic acid. The acid is strong, so dilute it first, mixing 1 part acid in 3 parts water. Wear protective gear, including a respirator mask. Saturate the existing surface with water. Right before you get to work mixing and pouring new concrete, spray the old surface with a hose. Get the old concrete slab completely wet, making sure any cleaning chemicals you used get rinsed off in the process. Keep spraying it until the moisture runs off the sides instead of being absorbed. Dry up any water pooled over the concrete before continuing. Concrete is porous, so it can absorb liquid. If it absorbs moisture from the new concrete, you will get a dry top slab that didn't bond well with the old concrete. Measure out the space you wish to fill with concrete. Taking measurements is necessary if you plan on filling a large space. Use measuring tape to figure out the length and width your new slab needs to be. Write your measurements down so you know what supplies to get to pour a smooth, consistent slab later. If you are only going to pour a thin slab or patch up existing concrete, make a general estimate of the area's size and how much concrete you need for it. You can usually mix and pour a small batch without setting up a perimeter. Mark the height you want the concrete to reach. Slab thickness is important and depends on your plans for your home. If you want the slab to reach up to your doorstep, for instance, you need to measure from the existing slab to the bottom of the doorstep. Use chalk to mark the height the slab should reach. Take your time measuring. The ground beneath the existing concrete may not be level, so measure on all sides. Use the measurements to calculate how much concrete you will need. Measure the length, width, and depth of the area you wish to fill. Multiply these numbers together to get a general estimate of the amount of concrete you need. Add an extra 10% onto your total estimate to account for spillage. The calculation can be an imperfect estimate, especially for areas that aren't perfect squares or rectangles. Always get more concrete than you need to ensure you have enough. Install braces around where you will pour the concrete. Using your measurements, cut some boards to help hold the liquid concrete in place. You can get wood boards that will reach the depth marks you made in chalk earlier. Set the braces up around the perimeter of your old concrete slab. These braces serve as a mold. When you pour the concrete into it, you no longer have to worry about it spilling off the old slab and making a mess. It gives you a better chance at creating a strong, level slab. You can cut the wood yourself with a circular saw. Wear protective gear, including a dust mask and eye protection, if you do this. Alternatively, get the wood cut at a home improvement store. Prop up the braces with wooden stakes. Dig out the soil around the braces, then stand the stakes in them. You can use 2 in × 4 in (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) wood for most projects. Place the stakes approximately every 12 in (30 cm), then drill them to the braces with 3 in (7.6 cm) wood screws. Make sure the stakes are planted firmly in the dirt so the braces don't fall as you work. If your slab won't be very high, you may be able to lay the wood braces on the ground and screw them together without using stakes. Test the evenness of the boards by laying a bubble level on top of them. The braces should be even before you begin pouring the concrete. Set the level on top of each board 1 at a time. Watch the liquid in the center of the level to make sure the bubble stays in the center. If the bubble moves to 1 side, that side is lower than the other side and needs to be adjusted. Another way to test the boards is to run string behind them. The string should be the same distance from the board at all times. If 1 end is closer to the string than another end, the brace isn't straight and should be adjusted. Lay wire mesh between the braces. Wire mesh provides extra strength to thick concrete slabs. It can also prevent cracking and settling. You can purchase a roll of welded wire mesh at a home improvement store, then simply spread it out in a single layer over the old concrete. Press it down so it is flat and level before you add the new concrete. The new concrete you pour binds to the mesh. Although it makes the concrete stronger, it won't prevent it from cracking. Another option is to get rebar and lay it out in a grid pattern similar to the mesh. Place rebar chairs underneath the rebar to hold them in place. Purchase concrete with a fine aggregate for small repairs. Aggregates are additives that make up most of a concrete mix. Fine aggregates are typically sand or crushed stone. This type of mix is best for pouring a very thin coat of concrete, such as when topping off or leveling out an existing slab. The aggregate in a concrete mix is listed on the label. You can also see it when you open the bag. Fine concrete looks smooth or has very small stones. Concrete is generally a mixture of cement, sand, gravel, and water. Choose a coarse aggregate concrete when pouring thicker slabs. Coarse concrete has gravel or larger stones as an additive. This type of concrete is stronger but less dense, so you can safely pour a large slab onto existing concrete. It is a good option if you need to fill a large area with something thick that will last a long time. Larger aggregates cannot be used to make thin coats, so make sure you get the type of concrete mix best suited for your project. Wear safety equipment to protect yourself while mixing concrete. Concrete can splash up as you mix and pour it, and that isn't anything you want in your eyes or on your skin. Wear protective goggles or safety glasses, a safety mask with ventilation, and long jeans. Also consider wearing work gloves to protect your skin from concrete splatter. Mix up a scratch coat consisting of concrete and water. The scratch coat is a layer of wet concrete mixed to a liquid consistency similar to paint. You will need a big plastic mixing bucket. Combine the concrete in a ratio of about 1 part water to 7 parts concrete, then mix it with a wooden mixing stick or electric paddle mixer until it reaches a uniform liquid consistency. Use the same concrete you plan on using for the final layer. Have the area estimate available for the space you wish to cover, then follow the manufacturer's instructions for an estimate on how much to mix. Less is usually more with the scratch coat. Remember that is liquid, so it will spread out over the existing slab. Spread the liquid mix over the existing concrete. Dump it all out onto the existing concrete, then begin spreading it around using a hand trowel or paver. Press down hard on the concrete to work the liquid mix into any cracks as you smooth out the scratch coat layer. The layer of wet concrete doesn't need to be thick. A layer about ⁄ 8 in (0.32 cm) thick, about the thickness of a credit card, is enough. You can also use a rag or a gloved hand to spread the scratch coat. This can work well when priming small areas. The wet mix is there to help the new concrete bond to the old concrete, so you don't need a lot of it. Mix a batch of concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Read the concrete packaging to find out how to mix it. The ratio is usually about 1 part water to 3 parts concrete. Add the water and concrete to a mixing container, then use a wooden stirrer or electric paddle mixer to combine them into a thick liquid. The mixing ratio may vary depending on what product you own, so check the manufacturer's recommendations to get the concrete to the proper consistency. Add a bonding adhesive if you are using regular concrete. If you got a bag of concrete and mixed it normally, you should use a concrete bonding adhesive to ensure the layers of concrete stick to one another. The adhesive is a liquid that comes in a plastic jug and you pour it directly into the concrete mixture. Check the manufacturer's instructions to add the product at the recommended ratio. You can get the additive online or at most home improvement stores. If you are using a concrete patching product, you most likely do not need the adhesive. It is often included as part of the patching mix. Check the product's label to make sure. Apply the new concrete over the primer. Pour concrete onto the existing slab until it is around where you want the final level to be. Make sure you have enough concrete to fill the entire area to the depth you desire. Add all of the concrete right away so none of the mixture has a chance to dry out. You do not need to wait for the scratch coat layer to dry completely. It will have dried enough while you mixed this batch of concrete. You can try to fill in a slab with multiple pours of concrete, but this usually isn't advisable. You won't get a single, uniform slab, which can lead to bonding issues in the layers. Use a trowel to smooth out the concrete. The concrete needs to be leveled out before it solidifies. You can use a trowel to smooth over small areas or a screed board and bull float for large areas. Work back and forth, passing over a little more of the rough concrete each time. Make multiple passes over the entire surface to ensure it is smooth. On hot days, the concrete can dry out very quickly, so don't waste any time after pouring it. Make sure there are no marks left in the concrete when you are done smoothing it. Protect your work by spraying the concrete with a curing compound. A good curing compound is the best way to preserve wet concrete. Mix the curing compound according to the manufacturer's instructions, add it to a garden sprayer, then spray it directly onto the concrete. This should be done right after you finish pouring the concrete. Concrete takes about 7 days to fully cure. Another way to do this is to spray the concrete thoroughly with water from a garden hose, then lay a polyethylene sheet or concrete curing insulation blanket over it. Make sure the plastic is flat against the concrete or else it will cure unevenly, causing discolorations. Remove the sheet to moisten the concrete again every day for a week. The longer the concrete is allowed to cure, the stronger it will be. Make sure no one is able to step on the concrete until it has finished curing. | Sweep dirt and debris off the concrete. Use a pressure washer to clean out the remaining debris. Scrub difficult spots with chemical products. Saturate the existing surface with water. Measure out the space you wish to fill with concrete. Mark the height you want the concrete to reach. Use the measurements to calculate how much concrete you will need. Install braces around where you will pour the concrete. Prop up the braces with wooden stakes. Test the evenness of the boards by laying a bubble level on top of them. Lay wire mesh between the braces. Purchase concrete with a fine aggregate for small repairs. Choose a coarse aggregate concrete when pouring thicker slabs. Wear safety equipment to protect yourself while mixing concrete. Mix up a scratch coat consisting of concrete and water. Spread the liquid mix over the existing concrete. Mix a batch of concrete according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Add a bonding adhesive if you are using regular concrete. Apply the new concrete over the primer. Use a trowel to smooth out the concrete. Protect your work by spraying the concrete with a curing compound. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Toaster | How to Use a Toaster | To get started with your new toaster, simply place one slice of bread into each slot on the top of the toaster. Then, adjust the knob on the front of the toaster to decide how dark you want your bead – the higher the number, the darker the bread. When you're ready, press down on the lever to start cooking. Stick around to make sure nothing burns. When the bread pops up, remove the toast and enjoy! | Slide one slice of bread into each toaster slot. You can also toast just one slice of bread. In this case, choose a slot, and slide it in. The direction you orient the slice in the toaster doesn't matter, but most people like to insert it bottom-first. You can toast many things other than bread but stick to toasting bread slices until you are more comfortable using the appliance. Set the toasting level. Use the adjustment knob on the front of the appliance to choose how dark you want the toast to be. On most toasters, the dial runs from 1 to 5, with 1 being the lightest, and 5 being the darkest. Consider setting the dial somewhere in the middle: 2 or 3. This way, if the toast is not dark enough, you can always toast it again. Some toasters have other settings, such as light, medium, or dark. Other toasts have options for waffles, toast, and bagels. In this case, choose the setting that best matches whatever it is that you're toasting. Lower the lever to start the toasting cycle. Wait for the food to toast. Keep your nose peeled to smell for burning! The toasting process should not take longer than a minute or two, depending on how dark you want the toast. Even though the toaster is timed and will pop the bread out on its own, you should never leave it unattended. If the bread starts to burn, you'll have to pop it manually. To pop the toaster manually, hold the top corner of the toaster down while you lift the lever up. You should only do this if things start to burn, however. Remove the food. When the lever pops back up, it means that the toasting cycle is done. The toaster may "ding." Take the toast out using your fingers or a set of wooden tongs. Then, put your favorite spread onto your toast before consuming! Never use anything metal to take the toast out, or you may electrocute yourself. Err on the side of caution. If you aren't familiar with the toaster, set the dial to a lower number rather than a higher number. You can always put the slice back in for a bit more heat—but you cannot un-burn a piece of toast! For example, if you start with a medium setting, and the toast comes out too light, you can toast it again using a low setting. Adjust the toast level to the toast eater. If you are making toast for someone else, ask them whether they prefer their toast darker or lighter. If they prefer their toast lighter, then set the dial to the low end: 1 or 2. If they prefer their toast dark, then set it to the high end: 3 to 5. If you can't ask the person what they like, choose a medium setting. This way, the toast will be neither too light or too dark. Be careful not to burn the toast! If you set the dial to the highest setting, then you are playing with fire. Thick slices may press directly up against the electric heat filaments, which can apply dangerous heat to the food item. If you accidentally burn your toast, hold it over a sink, then use a knife to scrape the burnt parts off. Be aware that there will be lots of crumbs! Watch your toast carefully as it heats. If you see it starting to burn, don't wait for it to pop. Push the level up manually! Make sure that the toaster is plugged in. Most toasters require access to an electric wall outlet. If the toaster is plugged in but isn't working, check the cable for damage first, then plug the toaster into a different outlet. If plugging the toasted into a different outlet doesn't help, then the toaster might be broken. Don't use the toaster if the cable appears damaged in some way. Check for damage, such as rips, tears, or scorch marks. Practice toaster safety. Do not, under any circumstances, put a metal implement into the toaster while it is plugged in. Likewise, do not reach your hand into the toasting slots while the appliance is hot. The toaster works by firing metal filaments up to high heat using dangerous electrical currents. If you use your hand, you may burn yourself. If you put a fork into the slots, then you run the risk of electrocuting yourself. If the toast gets stuck in the slots: try depressing the lever for a moment, then popping it up manually—quickly, with force—to fling the toast out the top of the toaster. Unplug the toaster before you try to remove food that is stuck. Then, use wooden tongs to remove the item. Wooden tongs will not conduct electricity! Clean a toaster when it's not plugged in. Most toasters feature a flat, removable tray that slides in and out of the bottom of the appliance. This tray catches crumbs and burnt bits. Remove the tray and dump out the contents to clear space for more crumbs. If your toaster doesn't have a tray, unplug it first, then carry it over to a sink or trashcan. Turn it upside down and shake the crumbs out. You need to remove these crumbs; otherwise, they become a fire hazard. | Slide one slice of bread into each toaster slot. Set the toasting level. Lower the lever to start the toasting cycle. Remove the food. Err on the side of caution. Adjust the toast level to the toast eater. Be careful not to burn the toast! Make sure that the toaster is plugged in. Practice toaster safety. Clean a toaster when it's not plugged in. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Jellyfish | How to Cook Jellyfish | One way to cook jellyfish is to sauté it in a skillet or wok over medium heat with some diced green onion and garlic. You can also make jellyfish burger patties using mashed potatoes. Just slice the jellyfish into thin strips, sandwich it between 2 mashed potato disks, and fry the patty in a pan. When it's done, you can serve the jellyfish burger on a bun with your favorite toppings. | Rinse the jellyfish and soak it for 1 hour in cold water. Open a 10-ounce (283 g) package of jellyfish packed in salt and rinse it under cold running water. Place the jellyfish in a large bowl and fill it with cold water so the jellyfish is completely submerged. Soak the jellyfish for 1 hour. The jellyfish should feel flexible once it's soaked long enough. Soaking the jellyfish will remove the salt that it was preserved with. Slice the green onions and mince the garlic. Rinse 2 green onions and trim off the ends. Use a sharp knife to slice the onions as thin as you can (about 1/4 inch or 1 centimeter thick). Mince enough fresh garlic to get 2 tablespoons (17 g). Since 1 clove of garlic usually yields 1/2 teaspoon (1.4 g) of minced garlic, you'll need about 12 cloves. Sauté the green onions and garlic for 30 seconds. Pour 1/4 cup (60 ml) of grapeseed oil into a skillet or wok and turn the heat to medium. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, stir in the minced garlic and sliced green onions. Stir and cook them until they're slightly browned and fragrant. Turn off the burner. If you don't have grapeseed oil, you could use coconut or olive oil. Avoid leaving the garlic and green onions unattended because they can burn easily. Drain and add the jellyfish to the skillet. Place a colander into the sink and pour the soaked jellyfish into it. Add the drained jellyfish to the skillet and stir it so it's combined with the green onions and garlic. The jellyfish in the package will probably already be sliced into strips. If it isn't, cut it into long thin strips about 0.8 inches (2 centimeters) wide. Stir in the seasonings. Measure 1/4 teaspoon (1 ml) of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of chili oil, 1/4 teaspoon (1.5 g) of salt, and 1 teaspoon (3 g) of ground sichuan pepper into the skillet. Stir until the jellyfish is completely coated in the seasonings. Warm the jellyfish for 2 minutes. Stir and cook the jellyfish salad over medium heat just until the jellyfish warms up a little. Avoid frying or cooking the jellyfish too long. Overcooking the jellyfish can make it rubbery or tough. Taste, garnish, and serve the jellyfish salad. Taste the salad to see if you need to add extra salt. Transfer the jellyfish salad to a serving bowl and drizzle it with a little sesame oil. Sprinkle a little chopped cilantro over the top and serve the salad while it's slightly warm. If you prefer, you can refrigerate it until it's cold and then serve it. The sesame oil will give the salad a slightly smoky, nutty taste. Store the leftover jellyfish salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 4 to 5 days. If you'd like to rewarm the salad, microwave it in a microwave-safe container in 30-second increments until it's as hot as you like. Rinse the jellyfish in cold water and soak it for 1 hour. Get out 1/4 pound (113 g) of jellyfish packed in salt and rinse it under cold running water. Transfer the jellyfish to a large bowl filled with cold water. Ensure that the jellyfish is covered with water and soak it for 1 hour. Once the jellyfish has soaked enough, it will feel flexible. Soaking the jellyfish will also remove excess salt. Dry and slice the jellyfish into thin strips. Place a colander in the sink and drain the jellyfish into it. Lay paper or kitchen towels on a work surface and place the jellyfish on it. Press the jellyfish with the towel to dry it as much as possible. Move the jellyfish to a cutting board and use a sharp knife to cut it into long, thin strands about 0.8 inches (2 centimeters) wide. Set the jellyfish aside. Peel and cut the potatoes into 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) chunks. Rinse and peel 1.1 pounds (500 g) of potatoes. Place them on a cutting board and cut each potato into even sized chunks. They should be about 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) in size. Use Russet or your favorite variety of potatoes. Boil the chunks of potato for 12 to 15 minutes. Place the potato chunks into a large pot and pour enough water to cover the potatoes by 1 inch (2.5 cm). Turn the burner on to high and bring the water to a boil. Reduce the heat to medium so it's at a gentle boil and cook the potatoes until they're tender. Use a pot that's at least 2-quarts (1.9 liters) in size. To test if the potatoes are tender, insert a fork or knife into a potato chunk. You should be able to easily slide it in and out if it's finished cooking. Drain and mash the potatoes. Turn off the burner and drain the potatoes into the colander in the sink. Transfer the potatoes to a large bowl and use a potato masher to mash the potatoes until they're smooth. Stir in 5 tablespoons (70 g) of butter, salt, and pepper according to your taste. Set the mashed potatoes aside. If you prefer, you can use a potato ricer or electric mixer instead of a potato masher. Mix together a sweet chili dipping sauce. Measure all of the sweet chili sauce ingredients into a bowl and stir them until they're combined. You'll need: 1 tablespoon (15 ml) toasted sesame oil 3 tablespoons (9 g) finely sliced fresh spring onions 1 teaspoon (2 g) grated fresh ginger 2 large handfuls finely chopped fresh cilantro 2 teaspoons (10 ml) purchased sweet chili dipping sauce Combine the mashed potatoes with half of the sweet dipping sauce. Scoop all of the mashed potatoes into a big mixing bowl and add half of the dipping sauce. Use a rubber spatula or wooden spoon to stir the mixture until it's combined. Set it aside. Mix together the rest of the dipping sauce with the jellyfish. Pour the rest of the sweet chili dipping sauce into another mixing bowl and stir in the jellyfish slices until they're coated. Divide the mashed potato mixture into disks. Divide the mashed potato mixture into 8 evenly sized portions. Flatten each portion into a flat disk that's about 4 inches (10 cm) in diameter and 0.5 inches (1.3 cm) thick. Set them on your work surface. Top the disks with the jellyfish mixture and form them into burgers. Divide the jellyfish mixture into 4 evenly sized portions and place them in the centers of 4 of the mashed potato disks. Top those disks with the remaining mashed potato disks so the jellyfish mixture is sandwiched in the middle. Gently press around the edges of each burger to seal in the jellyfish mixture. The burgers should be about 1 inch (2.5 cm) thick. Ensure that the jellyfish mixture isn't spread across the entire disk of mashed potato mixture or the jellyfish filling may seep out. Leave about 0.8 inches (2 centimeters) of space around the edges. Fry the jellyfish burgers for 2 minutes over medium heat. Pour 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of vegetable oil into a non-stick skillet and turn the heat to medium. Once the oil is shimmering and hot, lower the 4 jellyfish burgers into the skillet. Fry them for 2 minutes without moving them. The bottom of the burgers should become golden brown. Flip and fry the jellyfish burgers for 2 more minutes. Use a spatula to flip the jellyfish burgers over. If the burgers are sticking, pour another 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of vegetable oil into the skillet. Fry the burgers until they're browned on the other side. This should take 2 minutes. The jellyfish and mashed potato are already cooked, so you just need to brown the outsides of the burger. Serve the jellyfish burgers immediately. Turn the heat off the burner and place the jellyfish burgers between buns. Serve the hot burgers with extra sweet chili dipping sauce and jellyfish salad or fries. Store the leftover jellyfish burgers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. To reheat the burgers, place them in a skillet over medium-low heat until they're warmed throughout. | Rinse the jellyfish and soak it for 1 hour in cold water. Slice the green onions and mince the garlic. Sauté the green onions and garlic for 30 seconds. Drain and add the jellyfish to the skillet. Stir in the seasonings. Warm the jellyfish for 2 minutes. Taste, garnish, and serve the jellyfish salad. Rinse the jellyfish in cold water and soak it for 1 hour. Dry and slice the jellyfish into thin strips. Peel and cut the potatoes into 1.5-inch (3.8-cm) chunks. Boil the chunks of potato for 12 to 15 minutes. Drain and mash the potatoes. Mix together a sweet chili dipping sauce. Combine the mashed potatoes with half of the sweet dipping sauce. Mix together the rest of the dipping sauce with the jellyfish. Divide the mashed potato mixture into disks. Top the disks with the jellyfish mixture and form them into burgers. Fry the jellyfish burgers for 2 minutes over medium heat. Flip and fry the jellyfish burgers for 2 more minutes. Serve the jellyfish burgers immediately. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Play-Pachinko | How to Play Pachinko | To play Pachinko, start by putting your money into the machine and selecting how many balls you want to play with. Then, press the ball-release button so the balls you paid for fall into the tray at the top of the machine. Next, twist the handle on the lower right side of the machine to shoot one of the balls out of the top, and try to get the balls into one of the holes to win money. Keep in mind that the more you turn the handle to the right, the faster the balls will shoot out. | Recognize a pachinko machine. Pachinko has been described as a vertical pinball machine. The goal of the game is to fire balls that fall through a maze of metal pins into a hole. The balls that go through let you play a slot machine with the chance of winning more balls. It's partially a game of skill and partially a game of chance. The small steel balls are smaller than those in most pinball machines. They are shot into a vertical playing field. You'll find three types of Pachinko machines: novice, intermediate, and advanced. Find a pachinko parlor. In Japan, entire arcades are devoted to pachinko. They are often referred to as pachinko parlors. They are located all throughout Tokyo , as pachinko is a popular game in Japan. At popular parlors, you might even see lines outside some Pachinko parlors in the mornings, as professional pachinko players and others line up early to get in. Play to win. On top of every machine, you'll find statistics about how many wins and losses the machine has had. Consult these statistics to help you choose machines, as you want to pick ones with the best odds of winning. On top of the machine, look for a set of numbers. One number will be smaller than the other. That number is how many times the machine has won, while the bigger one is how many spins it has had. Both numbers only represent the day's spins. You want a machine that hasn't that many wins with a large number of spins because machines tend to win in waves. You don't want a machine that won 25 times yesterday and many times the day before because it probably won't give you much today. Try not to spend more than 500-1,000 yen ($5 - $10) on any one machine, and don't play in an empty parlor. It probably has a reputation for losing machines. Play on new machines. New machines are called "shindai," and you'll see them advertised because they won't have stats on the top of the machine. Nonetheless, they can pay well, especially in the first two weeks. Try to find one to play on, even if you have to reserve a spot for it. You'll often see advertisements on trains for shindai machines in the area. Play pachinko online. The popularity of pachinko has started to spread around the globe and, to capitalize on this interest, many companies allow you to play pachinko online. You can play on whatever platform you prefer, from a smart phone to a tablet or computer. Finding a site is as simple as searching for "play pachinko online." Some pachinko games online are free. Generally, the free games don't allow you to make any money doing it, but they do allow you to practice how the game works before you try it in real life. You can play pachinko for money online, using your credit card, but always be wary of online gambling. Not only can you lose a lot of money, but it can be harder to vet the credibility of the sites. Put your money in the machine. Insert cash or a prepaid card into the pachinko machine. The cash will buy you a certain number of balls, which should be listed on the machine. You will buy a certain number of balls at a selected monetary values for the game. If playing an offline game, put money into the money slot on the ball dispenser that you find on the machine's left-hand side. Think of the balls like a casino's chips. They stand in for real money, just not money you can collect at the parlor. Press the ball-release button. The ball-release button is called the tamakashi button. When you press the button the balls will fall into the tray at the top of your machine. This tray is called the uwazara. Those are the balls you have to play with, which are technically "borrowed" from the parlor. If the balls don't come out or it doesn't seem like what you paid for, you can ask an attendant to help you. Turn the handle. You start playing in pachinko by pulling the handle that is on the machine's lower right. You'll want to turn the handle firmly by twisting it. The amount you twist controls how fast the balls shoot out the top. You want to find the right angle to aim the balls towards the hole near the bottom of the machine. If the balls don't enter the hole, you lose them to a chute below. Keep twisting to find the best speed for the balls. Try to aim for about 20 balls in the hole for every 1,000 yen you're spending. The more strongly you turn the handle to the right, the faster the balls come out. If you don't turn the handle strongly enough or far enough, the balls won't move. If you turn the handle too strongly, the balls will go right into the losing shoot at the bottom. Try to go through the gaps. Part of pachinko is avoiding the pegs on the board, which can make your balls go off course. When turning the wheel, try to get the balls between the gaps as much as possible so they fall easily into the winning hole. You can launch the balls singly. Each board has about 500 pegs that you must guide your balls through. Watch for the doors. Another part of pachinko is the small doors that surround the hole, one one each side. When they are shut, you'll only be able to get one ball through. When they open, you'll be able to get three balls through at once. The balls that go in reward you with more balls, as well as giving you a spin on the slot machine. Play the slot machine. The slot machine uses numbers, which you need to line up. You are looking for a three in a row. Of course, you want three in a row, but you also want a situation called a reach, where you are waiting for the third number to show up after having two in a row. You'll see reach happen about a fourth of the time. When it does, you'll have the number you want represented on the screen, battling against another number you don't want. Usually, these numbers are represented by various silly characters that literally battle across the screen. If the other number wins, which usually happens, you lose. However, the fun happens when your number wins in a reach. When it does, each ball you've already won is converted to ten balls, or the machine will pay out a huge amount of balls. Use pachinko etiquette. Pachinko is a very popular game in Japan, so an entire set of etiquette rules have popped up. It's best to follow them if you are playing the game in its home country, as you can upset people if you don't. Don't gloat over winnings or look sad when you lose, as you are playing close by other people, and generally, everyone keeps a poker face. Most people don't want to be disturbed by the people around them. They view the game as something they do alone, not together. Make sure not to touch anyone else's balls, as it's considered bad luck and bad form. If you need to reserve a machine, use a pack of cigarettes or some other marker, and place it in the tray, which will work for about half an hour. Don't take children with you. Empty the winnings box. If you hit a jackpot, which is called an aotari, the machine will spit out balls into your lower tray. Once you have a lot or it seems to be overflowing, you need to empty it into your winnings box with the lever at the bottom. Never move the winnings box yourself. If it's full, you need to call a staff member, who will come move it for you. Usually, the person will set it behind you on the floor. You'll also get a new winnings box if you're still playing. Each box of balls is usually worth about 5,000 yen. End your game. Once you're done, you need to collect any money you still have on your card, which you can do by pressing the card/coin return button. It should eject your card for you to take with you. Remember, like any gambling game, it's best to quit while you're ahead. Call the staff. Once again, you never touch the winning boxes of balls, mostly because no one wants to pick up thousands of balls. If you don't have a call button, make a big X with your arms to show the staff you're done. The staff member will come over and pick up your balls for you and take them to the counting machine. Collect your tokens or cards. Because playing pachinko for money is technically illegal in Japan, you only get tokens or cards at the pachinko parlor. Once your balls are counted, the staff will hand you your tokens. Keep them in a safe place. Just like in casinos, the balls represent a certain amount of money. However, unlike casinos, you have one extra step in the exchange. Think of it like converting money. You are converting balls to tokens to yen. Exchange your tokens at a tuck shop. Once you've gathered your tokens, you must go elsewhere to find a tuck shop, where you can exchange your tokens for yen. Because playing pachinko for money is illegal, the staff at the parlor won't tell you where to look. However, you can ask another friendly pachinko player where to go. Once there, you won't find people to convert your tokens. Rather, you'll find a drawer. You'll be able to pick it out because it usually has Astroturf. You place your tokens in, and the drawer is drawn in. In return, it comes out with your yen, and you leave. Often, the tuck shop is a small shed located near the pachinko parlor. Sometimes, in place of a drawer, you will find hole in the shed's wall where you retrieve the money. | Recognize a pachinko machine. Find a pachinko parlor. Play to win. Play on new machines. Play pachinko online. Put your money in the machine. Press the ball-release button. Turn the handle. Try to go through the gaps. Watch for the doors. Play the slot machine. Use pachinko etiquette. Empty the winnings box. End your game. Call the staff. Collect your tokens or cards. Exchange your tokens at a tuck shop. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Diet-Coke-Chicken | How to Make Diet Coke Chicken | To make Diet Coke chicken in the oven, first season chicken breasts with salt and pepper to taste. Then, lay sliced red onions around the chicken for extra flavor. In a separate bowl, whisk together ketchup, Worcestershire sauce, and diet cola. Pour this sauce over the chicken breasts until they're covered completely. To cook them, place the chicken breasts in an oven preheated to 350 degrees for 35-45 minutes, or until they're cooked through. After 20 minutes, flip the chicken breasts over, which will prevent them from drying out. | Heat a coated large skillet for 1 minute. Apply a light coat of non-stick cooking spray to the bottom of the pan. Then, turn the stovetop on and set it on high heat. Let it heat up for about 1 minute before adding any ingredients. To keep this recipe as low-calorie as possible, consider using a low-calorie cooking spray. You can also use cooking oil, such as heart-healthy olive oil, but this will add some calories to your dish. Chop or slice the chicken if you don’t want to cook the breasts whole. If you want smaller pieces of chicken, use a sharp knife to cut the meat into chunks or slivers. This will make the chicken cook a little faster, and will also save you time cutting it up later. If you want to serve the chicken breast whole, however, you can skip this step. Cut up any vegetables you want to cook with the chicken. If you plan to cook your chicken with any vegetables, use a sharp knife to slice, quarter, or chop them into bite-sized pieces while the pan is heating up. That way, they'll be ready to toss into the pan after you add the chicken. Onions, peppers, garlic, baby corn, and mushrooms are all great options to cook with your Diet Coke chicken. If you don't plan to add any vegetables to your Diet Coke chicken dish, you can skip this step. Place the chicken and any vegetables into the hot pan. Use tongs or a fork to place the chicken into the pan. If you're cooking whole chicken breasts, try to spread them out as much as possible. Then, add any vegetables you want to cook alongside the Diet Coke chicken and spread them out in between the pieces of chicken. Cook the chicken and vegetables for 5 to 7 minutes over high heat. Cook the chicken and vegetables until lightly browned. If your chicken is chopped or sliced, stir the chicken and vegetables periodically, every 1 to 2 minutes or so. If you left the chicken breasts whole, flip them about halfway through to ensure they brown evenly on both sides. Mix your Diet Coke sauce on the side if the chicken breasts are whole. Pour 1 can of Diet Coke into a medium sized mixing bowl. Add the rest of your sauce ingredients, then use a whisk to stir the sauce until it's completely combined. If you chopped or sliced the chicken, you can skip this step and pour the sauce ingredients directly into the pan. For a simple sauce, mix 1 can of Diet Coke with 1 cup of ketchup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. For a slightly sweet, more flavorful sauce, mix 1 can of Diet Coke, 200 millilitres (6.8 fl oz) of chicken stock, 8 tablespoons (120 mL) of tomato passata, 4 tablespoons (59 mL) of tomato puree, 2 finely chopped garlic cloves, 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of soy sauce, and 1 tsp (5 grams) of mixed herbs, such as an Italian herb mix, or spices, such as Chinese 5 spice mix, of your choice. Add the Diet Coke sauce ingredients to the pan. Pour the pre-mixed sauce onto the chicken and any vegetables in the pan. If you cut the chicken into cubes or slices, you can mix the sauce in the pan by adding all the ingredients and stirring well with a wooden or rubber spoon. If the chicken breasts are whole, you may need to use the spoon to coat the chicken and vegetables with the sauce. Bring the sauce to a boil, then simmer for 12 to 45 minutes. First, keep the stovetop heat on high to bring the sauce to a light boil. Then, reduce the heat to low or medium heat so that the sauce is still bubbling slightly but not boiling. The amount of time that the chicken will need to simmer depends on whether you chopped or sliced the chicken, and, if whole, how thick the chicken breasts are. When the dish is done cooking, the sauce should be thick and the chicken should be cooked through. If the chicken breasts are whole, you can use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is cooked periodically. The chicken is done when the thermometer reads 165 °F (74 °C). Remove the Diet Coke chicken from the heat and serve immediately. Stovetop Diet Coke chicken is great served alone in a bowl. This dish also pairs well with a side salad, or served over a bed of rice. If you have any leftovers, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C). To make delish, healthy Diet Coke chicken in the oven, you'll first need to preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C). Then, you can prepare the chicken while the oven is heating up. Place the chicken breasts into a large baking dish and season them. First, spray the baking dish with nonstick spray or olive oil. Then, spread the chicken out a bit so that they don't touch. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste. To bake 4 large chicken breasts, you'll likely need a baking dish that is at least 9 inches (23 cm) by 13 inches (33 cm) large. Mix the Diet Coke sauce in a bowl. Pour 1 cup (240 mL) of Diet Coke, 1 cup (240 mL) of ketchup, and 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of Worcestershire sauce into a medium sized mixing bowl. Use a whisk to mix the sauce until it's combined completely. Pour the sauce over the chicken and cover it with foil. Add the sauce by pouring it on top of the chicken and around the sides, making sure that all the pieces are coated. Then, cover the dish with aluminum foil. Bake the chicken in the oven for about 50 minutes. Place the covered baking dish with the chicken and Diet Coke sauce into the preheated oven. Let the chicken bake for about 50 minutes. To ensure that the chicken doesn't over cook, use a meat thermometer to start checking it after about 40 minutes. When the chicken is done cooking, the internal temperature will be 165 °F (74 °C). Remove the dish from the oven and serve it immediately. Baked Diet Coke chicken is great served over noodles or rice. It also makes a great main dish when served with sides, such as mashed potatoes, steamed broccoli, or a simple side salad. You can store leftover baked Diet Coke chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Set your slow cooker on low or high heat. First, plug your slow cooker into the outlet. Then, set it on the high heat setting if you want the chicken to cook faster, or low heat if you have more time. Place the chicken into the slow cooker and season them. Using tongs or a fork, transfer either 2 pounds (0.91 kg) of whole chicken or 6 chicken breasts into the slow cooker. Season the chicken with salt and pepper to taste. To add flavor and save time later, you can add any vegetables you want to cook to the slow cooker with the chicken. Onions, squash, and peppers are all great options. Mix the Diet Coke sauce in a bowl. In a medium mixing bowl, add 1 can of Diet Coke and 1 cup (240 mL) of ketchup. Use a whisk to combine them completely. If you want the sauce to have a bit more flavor, add 2 tablespoons (30 mL) of Worcestershire sauce as well. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Make sure that the chicken is coated. Then, replace the slow cooker lid. Cook the chicken in the slow cooker for 4 to 8 hours. If your slow cooker is set on high heat, set the slow cooker timer to cook the chicken for 4 hours. If your slow cooker is on low heat, cook the chicken for about 6 hours. If the chicken is particularly large or thick, you may need to cook it on high for up to 6 hours, or on low up to 8 hours. Transfer the chicken onto a plate and serve. Once the chicken is thoroughly cooked, use tongs to transfer it onto a plate. Then, use a spoon to scoop up any sauce remaining in the slow cooker and pour it over the chicken. Serve the chicken with vegetables or over rice or noodles. Store any leftover slow cooker Diet Coke chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. | Heat a coated large skillet for 1 minute. Chop or slice the chicken if you don’t want to cook the breasts whole. Cut up any vegetables you want to cook with the chicken. Place the chicken and any vegetables into the hot pan. Cook the chicken and vegetables for 5 to 7 minutes over high heat. Mix your Diet Coke sauce on the side if the chicken breasts are whole. Add the Diet Coke sauce ingredients to the pan. Bring the sauce to a boil, then simmer for 12 to 45 minutes. Remove the Diet Coke chicken from the heat and serve immediately. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C). Place the chicken breasts into a large baking dish and season them. Mix the Diet Coke sauce in a bowl. Pour the sauce over the chicken and cover it with foil. Bake the chicken in the oven for about 50 minutes. Remove the dish from the oven and serve it immediately. Set your slow cooker on low or high heat. Place the chicken into the slow cooker and season them. Mix the Diet Coke sauce in a bowl. Pour the sauce over the chicken in the slow cooker. Cook the chicken in the slow cooker for 4 to 8 hours. Transfer the chicken onto a plate and serve. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Identify-Male-and-Female-Guppies | How to Identify Male and Female Guppies | If you're trying to figure out whether guppies are male or female, see if their bodies are long and slender, like most male guppies, or big and round, like most females. Compare their body colors and patterns. Males tend to be more brightly colored and patterned to attract females. You can also look at the undersides of their bodies, near their tails. All females will have a dark spot there, called the gravid spot. | Check for a slender or round body shape. The body shape of male and female guppies is very different and distinctive. Male guppies usually have very slender, long bodies, while female guppies are usually a lot rounder and bigger than the males, sometimes twice as big as a male guppy. If your female guppy is pregnant, her body may look boxy or stuffed and even lumpy. She may grow even rounder as she gets closer to birthing her young. You may want to use a magnifying glass to get a better look at your guppy's shape, size, and coloring as it swims around in its tank. Note the size of the guppy. You may want to try to do an approximate measurement of your guppies to help determine their sex. Female guppies can grow up to 2 ⅛ inches (6 cm) and are often a lot larger than male guppies. In contrast, male guppies can grow up to 1-⅛ inches (3 cm). Look for bright coloring and patterns on the guppy’s body. Male guppies are often much more colorful than their female counterpart and their bodies may be covered in bright coloring and patterns. Males may have bodies and tails covered in orange, blue, violet, green, black, and white spots and stripes. They use this coloring to attract a female mate. Keep in mind that spotting a lot of bright colors and patterns on your guppy is not a sure fire way to identify it as male. Some types of guppies have females who are also quite colorful, so you may want to use other physical markers to determine the sex of your guppy in addition to coloring. You can look at different breeds of guppies online to determine what breed your guppy is as well as the different coloring and patterns on your breed's tail. Check for the gravid spot on the underside of the guppy’s tail. While you are examining your guppy's body shape and coloring, you should go a bit closer to your fish and check for a gravid spot. The gravid spot is a dark spot located on the underside of your guppy's body, near the tail, and is a clear marker of a female. Males do not have a gravid spot. A pregnant female guppy's gravid spot will get darker and bigger as she gets closer to delivering her young. As her due date approaches, you may be able to actually see the babies inside her, close to her gravid spot. Once she has her babies, her gravid spot will get lighter and then darken again when she gets pregnant again. Look at the shape of the guppy’s dorsal fin. The dorsal fin is located on the top of the fish, about two to three inches from the fish's head. Male guppies have longer dorsal fins that flow in the water as they swim around. Female guppies have shorter dorsal fins that do not trail in the water as they swim. Check the shape of the guppy’s tail fin. The guppy's tail fin, or the caudal, can help you determine the sex of the guppy. Male guppies have wide, long caudal fins that are often brightly colored, with elaborate patterns. Female guppies will have shorter caudal fins that are not as wide and long as the males. Notice the length and shape of the guppy’s anal fin. The guppy's anal fin is located under the fish and is the smaller fin right before the tail fin. A male guppy will have an anal fin that is long and narrow, with a slightly pointed end. He will use his anal fin to deliver sperm into the female. In contrast, a female guppy will have a shorter anal fin that appears triangular in shape. Her gravid spot will be located right above her anal fin. | Check for a slender or round body shape. Note the size of the guppy. Look for bright coloring and patterns on the guppy’s body. Check for the gravid spot on the underside of the guppy’s tail. Look at the shape of the guppy’s dorsal fin. Check the shape of the guppy’s tail fin. Notice the length and shape of the guppy’s anal fin. |
https://www.wikihow.tech/Check-RAM-Speed-on-PC-or-Mac | How to Check RAM Speed on PC or Mac | PC: 1. Open the Command Prompt. 2. Type "wmic memorychip get speed." 3. Press Enter. Mac: 1. Open Utilities. 2. Double-click System Information. 3. Click Memory. | Open the Start menu on your computer. Find and click the Windows icon in the lower-left corner of your screen to open the Start menu. Type cmd in the Start menu search box. This will search all your programs and list the matching results on your Start menu. Command Prompt should be at the top of the search results. If you don't see a search box on the Start menu, just start typing on your keyboard. Some versions of Windows let you search a program by opening the Start menu and just typing without a search box. Click Command Prompt. This option should be at the top of the search results. Clicking will open the Command Prompt window. Type wmic memorychip get speed. This command will allow you to check your RAM chip's speed in the Command Prompt window. Press ↵ Enter on your keyboard. This will execute the command, and show you a list of each one of your RAM chips' speeds. Open the Utilities folder on your Mac. You can find this folder inside your Applications folder, or click the magnifier icon in top-right and use the Spotlight Search to find it. Double-click System Information. The System Information icon looks like a computer chip in your Utilities folder. Double-clicking will open the application in a new window. Click Memory on the left panel. Find and open the Memory tab from the navigation panel on the left-hand side of System Information. This tab shows you detailed information about each RAM chip installed on your computer. Check the speed of each chip on the Memory Slots table. This table lists all of your installed RAM chips and shows each one's Speed, as well as its Size, Type, and Status. | Open the Start menu on your computer. Type cmd in the Start menu search box. Click Command Prompt. Type wmic memorychip get speed. Press ↵ Enter on your keyboard. Open the Utilities folder on your Mac. Double-click System Information. Click Memory on the left panel. Check the speed of each chip on the Memory Slots table. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Not-Stalk-Your-Ex-on-Social-Media | How to Not Stalk Your Ex on Social Media | Avoiding the temptation to stalk your ex on social media can be hard, but by changing some of your account settings and finding ways to distract yourself from stalking, you can do it. Block your ex on your social media accounts so they can't contact you and you won't see updates from them. If you think this step is too drastic, unfollow their profile, which will stop their posts from appearing in your news feed. When you feel the need to stalk them, write down all of the reasons why you broke up, which will remind you why they're not right for you. Spend more time hanging out with friends and family members so you can focus on other activities. For example, try taking up a new hobby or activity with a friend, like joining a running club or going to a new happy hour at a local bar. | Recognize that your stalking is normal—but painful. Although you may think that checking up on your ex on social media is stalking, it is actually a completely normal behavior following a breakup. You may want to see who your ex is with and what the person is doing in the hopes that your ex feels as miserable as you. But this can create a bad cycle of using social media for reassurance that ultimately makes you feel worse. Be aware that if you are using social media to find out where your ex is and then find him or her, this is actual stalking and potentially illegal. If you find yourself doing this, you may need to seek professional treatment. Block your ex from all social media sites. The expansive world of social media sites like Facebook, Snapchat, Twitter, and Instagram give people incredible access to the lives of others—including those you may not want to see. Blocking your ex entirely from any of your own social media sites may most extreme way to not stalk your ex, but it is also the most effective. Be prepared to deal with either your ex or mutual friends asking you why you took this action. Your decision may hurt your ex or mutual friends even. However, explain that the pain of your breakup is too much and this was the best decision for you and not meant to hurt anyone. Realize that another added benefit of blocking someone is that you often need to refriend or refollow the person. The sheer embarrassment of having to ask permission to see so that you can stalk the person may keep you from doing this. Unfriend or stop following your ex. A less extreme way to not have the temptation of stalking your ex is to unfriend or unfollow the person on social media. This can help prevent you from accessing your ex's sites, limit how much of the person's life you see, and also minimize how badly you feel. Prepare yourself to deal with invariable questions just as you may with blocking an ex. You can also use the same explanation, “Honestly, I need a break. Maybe in the future I can follow my ex on social media. For now, I need to just not see or be able to see what Gregory is doing.” Limit your ex’s presence on your news feed. If you're concerned that blocking your ex might hurt the person or leave others questioning you, limit what you see on social media. You could simply unsubscribe from your ex's posts or other features that might alert you to what your ex is doing. Some social media sites like Facebook will even automatically prompt you to limit exposure when you change your relationship status. Stop following the feeds of mutual friends. Depending on your network of friends, your ex may appear in statuses, location updates, and photos on social media sites. These may upset you, especially if you find out your ex is with a new partner or having a ball without you. In order to avoid seeing your ex's name or image, consider un-following the social media feeds of mutual and/ or close friends. Play off anything you may miss if you don't want the person to know you're no longer following his or her feeds. If a feed is mentioned, just say “oh, I must have missed that” or “I only got a quick glance because I didn't notice it until I was at work.” Consider being honest to mutual friends. You can say, “I'm so sorry, but it's just too painful to see Gregory in your news feeds. I really value your friendship and know he does, too. For now, I'd love to catch up with what you're doing in other ways.” Practice self-control. From time to time, you may be tempted to poke around social media and search engines for your ex. One innocent search or view of a news feed could lead you to a night of questioning about things such as whether or not the person who liked your ex's recent profile picture is a relative or new love interest. By reminding yourself that it's better for you to avoid your ex's social media and web presence altogether, you aid the process of closure. A little self-control in this regard can give you more control over yourself and your emotions. Remove contact information from your devices. Many smartphones, tablets, and other devices connect phone numbers with social media presences. You can prevent yourself from stalking your ex by removing the person's contact information from devices. This can not only keep you from looking up your ex in a moment of weakness, but will also remove an ever-present reminder of the person. Write your ex's contact information on a piece of paper if you may need to contact the person. This keeps you from having the reminder of the person as well as the temptation of looking up his or her sites.that you won't see every day and store it in a safe place. Remember why you broke up. If you find yourself pining to look at your ex's social media sites, pull out a sheet of paper and write down a list of reasons why your relationship didn't work. This can keep you from jumping to conclusions and missing a bad relationship. Avoid mentioning your ex. Relationships can be intense and a partner can be a significant part of your life. It's natural in relationships to mention your partner and you may be tempted to do this even after you've broken up. However, this can remind you of the person and make you want to find out what he or she is doing. Consciously not talking about your ex can distract you from thinking about the person. Remember that it's normal to mention an ex—especially if it is about a good time—sometimes. Avoiding any mention about the person with friends may feel awkward for everyone involved. If you need to bring up your ex as a way to process your feelings, do so but avoid making it a regular habit. Ask your friends to avoid mentioning your ex around you. This may remind you of your ex and could make you want to find out further details on social media. There may be situations, especially with mutual friends, where your ex's name is mentioned or even discussed. If this happens, step away from conversation until there is a new topic. Lean on your support system. You may not be feeling great after a breakup. But this can be a great opportunity to lean on and reconnect with family and friends. They can help distract your and provide support if you need it—even to take your devices away so that you can't stalk your ex. Be open with your support system about your feelings. You can even let friends and family know that you've been following your ex on social media. They can offer you a open ear and advice, or remind you that talking about your ex is hurting you. In addition, your support system can do activities with you to distract you from your feelings and social media. Enjoy your “me” time. It can take a lot of time to get over a relationship. But concentrating on yourself can help distract you from your ex. Do stuff that you couldn't do with your ex, which can help you realize that you don't care what he or she is doing or have feelings for the person. Do things like getting a massage or attending a yoga class, both of which can help you focus on you and relax. Spend time reading books that you didn't get a chance to do with your ex. Try new activities that your ex doesn't do. This can distract you from checking social media and reinforcing bad feelings. For example, you may have wanted to learn how to cook but your ex hated the idea. Taking a class and mastering different dishes can take up a lot of time that you may have otherwise been stalking your ex on social media. Get to know new people. Give yourself a chance to distract yourself from your ex and any mutual friends by meeting new people. In fact, you may even have a better time with new friends and acquaintances and entirely forget about stalking your ex on social media. Meet new people at new activities or by joining a group of something in which you're interested. For example, join a running club or go to a different happy hour in a new place. Group activities are a great chance to meet new people and divert your mind from your ex. Flirt with new people you meet. You might not be ready to date, but a little harmless flirting can boost your self-confidence and distract you from your ex. | Recognize that your stalking is normal—but painful. Block your ex from all social media sites. Unfriend or stop following your ex. Limit your ex’s presence on your news feed. Stop following the feeds of mutual friends. Practice self-control. Remove contact information from your devices. Remember why you broke up. Avoid mentioning your ex. Lean on your support system. Enjoy your “me” time. Get to know new people. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Banana-Peels | How to Use Banana Peels | Banana peels contain lots of fiber, vitamin C, and potassium, and you can cook with them, use them in home beauty treatments, and fertilize plants with them. To add some fiber to your meal, try chopping the peels up and baking them with vegetables or potatoes. You can also blend them up in a smoothie or place them at the bottom of a roasting pan to keep meat tender while it cooks. To reduce puffy eyes, try placing banana peels under your eyes for 5 minutes. Then, remove them and rinse your face with cool water. You can also chop up banana peels and bury them 1 to 2 inches beneath the soil of your house plants. The peels will give your plants extra nutrients and deter pests like green aphids and ants. | Brew banana peel tea to help yourself fall asleep. Bananas are naturally high in melatonin, a hormone that regulates your sleep cycle. For a soothing drink before bed, put a banana peel into a saucepan and pour in enough water to cover it. Bring the water to a boil and simmer the peel for 10 minutes. Then, use tongs to remove the peel and pour the tea into a cup. You can leave some of the fruit on the peel for a slightly sweet tea. Adjust the burner so the water bubbles gently as the tea brews. Lay banana peels under a roast to help it tenderize. If you're tired of meat drying out as it cooks, place it on banana peels in a roasting pan. Then, roast the meat until it's tender and flavorful. You can serve the soft banana peels with the roast or discard them. Banana peels will steam as they roast, which adds moisture to the meat and prevents it from drying out. Blend a banana peel into a smoothie. To take advantage of all of the banana's nutrients, toss the peel into the blender with fruit. You can make any smoothie recipe you like, since the banana peel won't change the flavor. Place the lid on the blender and combine the ingredients until you don't see any bits of banana peel at the bottom of the blender. Try adding the peel to a strawberry-banana smoothie , a wildberry smoothie, or a peanut butter banana smoothie , for instance. Fry or bake the peels to add fiber to a meal. Although you can eat banana peels raw, heating them makes them easier for you to digest. Try chopping the peel into bite-sized pieces and adding them to your next stir fry. You could also add chopped banana peel to a sheet of vegetables and roast the mixture until everything's tender. Pickle or candy banana peels to preserve them. For quick banana peel pickles, chop the peels into 1 inch (2.5 cm) pieces and put them in a jar of pickle juice. Chill them for at least 2 days before eating them. If you'd like sweeter peels, put the chopped peels into a pot with simple syrup. Simmer the peels until they're tender and then arrange them on a parchment paper-lined baking sheet. Let them cool so they harden. Break up the candied banana peels and store them in an airtight container. Store the pickled banana peels in the refrigerator. Make vinegar using banana peels. To make a lightly fruity vinegar that's great for salad dressing, put 1 pound (450 g) of banana peels in a large jar with 1/3 cup (67 g) of sugar and ⁄ 2 cup (120 ml) of vinegar. Fill the jar with water. Cover it and stir the mixture once a day for a week. Then, let the vinegar ferment for another week before straining out the peels. Leave the vinegar to ferment for another 4 weeks so it develops more flavor. Try rubbing the peels on itchy skin. Rubbing the inside of the banana peel over itchy skin is a popular home remedy, especially for soothing poison ivy rashes. Gently rub the peel on your skin and repeat it as often as you need to throughout the day. Rubbing banana peel might also relieve the itching from insect bites. Make a soothing face mask to brighten your skin. Rub the inside of the banana peel over the entire surface of your face. Keep rubbing until the peel turns brown. The peel gently exfoliates your skin and leaves a slight residue on your skin. Wait up to 30 minutes before rinsing the residue off and then moisturize your face as usual. Apply banana peels directly to acne or blemishes. Although research is needed, you could rub the inside of a banana peel on acne spots or blemishes. Let the residue from the peel dry on your skin. Then, rinse it off after about 5 minutes. Banana peels have antibacterial properties that could treat the acne. Place banana peels under your eyes to reduce puffiness. If you have tired, puffy eyes, cut the peel into 2 pieces that are about 2 inches (5.1 cm) long. Lay the inside of each piece under your eyes and leave them for up to 5 minutes. Then, remove the peels and rinse your skin. Chill the banana peels before putting them on your skin if you want a cooling effect. Create a cheap banana peel fertilizer to add nutrients to your plants. Put a banana peel in a large jar and fill it with 4 cups (0.95 L) of water. Cover the jar loosely and leave it at room temperature for 2 days. Then, take the peel out. You can now pour a little of the fertilizer into the soil around your plants or put it in a spray bottle and spritz the base of the plants. Since indoor houseplants may be more sensitive to changes in their soil, monitor your plants closely if you use the fertilizer on them. Stop using it if your plants begin wilting or losing leaves. Make rich compost for your garden using banana peels. Although you can simply toss the banana peels on your compost pile, it can take several months for them to break down. To speed things up, chop the peels into pieces, keeping in mind that the smaller the pieces, the faster they'll break down. Then, mix the pieces into your compost pile. Chopping the peels before you compost them also prevents pests from digging through your pile. Dry the peels and grind them into feed for animals. If you keep chickens, pigs, rabbits, or livestock, cheaply supplement their food with banana peels. To make them easier for the animals to digest, dehydrate the peels until they're brittle. Then, grind them until they're fine and mix them into your animals' regular feed. Some animals, such as pigs and cattle, might prefer eating sliced green banana peels so try a few different ways of preparing the peels. Bury chopped banana peels to deter pests from your plants. Chop the peels into pieces that are about ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm) in size. Then, bury them 1 to 2 inches (2.5 to 5.1 cm) below the soil. Green aphids, which also attract ants, are repelled by the peels, so they'll leave your garden alone. Don't bury whole banana peels since rodents will come and dig them up. | Brew banana peel tea to help yourself fall asleep. Lay banana peels under a roast to help it tenderize. Blend a banana peel into a smoothie. Fry or bake the peels to add fiber to a meal. Pickle or candy banana peels to preserve them. Make vinegar using banana peels. Try rubbing the peels on itchy skin. Make a soothing face mask to brighten your skin. Apply banana peels directly to acne or blemishes. Place banana peels under your eyes to reduce puffiness. Create a cheap banana peel fertilizer to add nutrients to your plants. Make rich compost for your garden using banana peels. Dry the peels and grind them into feed for animals. Bury chopped banana peels to deter pests from your plants. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Find-a-Job-in-Another-Country | How to Find a Job in Another Country | To find a job in another country, look for positions on international job sites, like JobsAbroad, Overseas Jobs, and Monster. You can also reach out to a staffing agency in the country you want to work in so they can help place you in a job that you're qualified for. If you have skills in a particular industry, try visiting the websites of multinational corporations in that industry to see if they have job openings listed. In addition to searching online, you can look for international jobs and promote yourself on social media platforms like Facebook and LinkedIn. | Use social media to inform associates you're looking for work overseas. Take advantage of social media websites to look for positions. In addition, use social media to promote yourself. Create a LinkedIn account. Establish a professional profile on Facebook and Twitter. By using social media, you'll expand your reach. Attend job fairs with international employers. Most major cities host an overseas job fair every couple of months. To find an overseas job fair, run an internet search for overseas job fairs in large cities near you. When you attend these fairs, you'll find a variety of employers and staffing companies recruiting people for jobs in other countries. You might also consider finding a headhunter local to the country to get some leads. Inquire with your present employer about a transfer. Depending on the size of your current employer, you might be able to request a transfer overseas. Large multinational corporations often favor transferring current employees rather than hiring new ones. Talk to your supervisor or manager to find out if a transfer is an option. Establish and strengthen connections you have in the country. The more people you have in your network, the higher the chances that you'll find a position in the country and industry you want to work in. Attend conferences and join trade associations in the country you want to work in. Spend extra time socializing at conferences and other meetings. You may meet someone who can help you get a job. Reconnect with old associates (by phone, email, or by meeting for lunch or coffee)who may have connections in the country you want to work in. Contact a staffing or job placement company. Staffing and job placement companies are employed by other companies to find job candidates with certain skills. Sign up with one of these companies. By contacting and registering with a staffing company, you'll dramatically increase your chance of getting a job. Search the job sites of multinational companies. Depending on your career and skill set, you may be able to find a job by looking at the job openings on the employment pages of large multinational corporations. Focus on companies in industries that you have the skills to work in. Look on international job search websites. Set aside some time and look through job postings on international job websites. International job sites will have more postings outside your home country than other websites. Consider websites like: JobsAbroad.com OverseasJobs.com Monster.com Visit the country to meet people and look for jobs. If you're having trouble locating work or you want to increase your chances of getting a good job, book a short trip to the country you want to work in. This way, you'll be able to get a better idea of the specific circumstances of the place. In addition, you may be able to meet people and make contacts who can help you get a job. Visit the offices of job placement firms when you arrive in the country. Look through local newspapers for job postings. Gear your resume toward the country you want to move to. Find some specific examples of resumes in the country or region you're looking to relocate to. This is important, as styles vary from country to country. By tailoring your resume to that specific country (and even writing it in the native language), you'll let employers know that you're a go-getter and are serious about finding employment. Resumes in the U.S., U.K., and Scandinavia don't include a photograph or personal information. They're focused primarily on professional experience and education. Resumes in Central Europe often include a photograph and personal information like nationality, age, and gender. They often contain the newest job experience rather a candidate's entire job history. Resumes in most Asian countries should include a photograph. Resumes in China should include the reason why you left previous jobs. Learn about the culture of specific companies you want to work for. Before submitting your resume or interviewing, do some research on the company itself. Visit the company's website and read news articles about the company. By doing this, you'll gain more of an idea of the type of candidate the company is looking for, and you will be better able to market yourself to the person in charge of hiring. Practice video interviewing. After you've found a job opening and applied, you should work on your video conferencing and interviewing skills. Chances are that your first interview will be a video conferencing interview. When working on your video conferencing skills, remember to: Look at the camera, not at the screen. Dress well. Speak slowly and clearly. Position the camera so you're clearly centered in its view. Apply for a visa or work permit. Depending on the country and type of job you're focusing on, your employment application may not be considered unless you already have a visa or work permit. To get a visa, contact the specific country's embassy in your home country. They'll be able to give you directions about how to apply. Depending on where you want to work, you may have to apply in person or online. Verify that your company will sponsor you as an alien worker. Some countries won't grant visas or work permits unless a prospective employer agrees to sponsor you. Because of this, you'll need to contact the company you want to work for to see if they will help you meet these conditions. Learn the language of the country. Depending on the type of work you're interested in, you may need to learn the language of the specific country. Without knowing the language, you'll be a less competitive candidate for a job. If the company is a small, local, or national company, you'll most likely need to know the language. Some government bodies, non-profits, or large multinational companies may not require that you speak the native language. Familiarize yourself with the culture and customs of the country. Purchase or borrow books about the culture of the country you want to live in. In addition, consider subscribing to leading magazines from the country. Pay special attention to: How people in the country view time. Is work culture lax when it comes to time or is punctuality extremely important? How decisions are made. Does the work culture focus on a rigid hierarchy or is consensus-building more important? How people communicate. Are business people in the country more focused on empirical evidence and specific examples or holistic explanations? | Use social media to inform associates you're looking for work overseas. Attend job fairs with international employers. Inquire with your present employer about a transfer. Establish and strengthen connections you have in the country. Contact a staffing or job placement company. Search the job sites of multinational companies. Look on international job search websites. Visit the country to meet people and look for jobs. Gear your resume toward the country you want to move to. Learn about the culture of specific companies you want to work for. Practice video interviewing. Apply for a visa or work permit. Verify that your company will sponsor you as an alien worker. Learn the language of the country. Familiarize yourself with the culture and customs of the country. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Your-Boyfriend-Back-When-He-Broke-Up-with-You | How to Get Your Boyfriend Back When He Broke Up with You | To get your boyfriend back, give him some time to realize how much he misses you. During this time, avoid making any contact with him, including over the phone or through social media. When you feel ready to talk to him, start small by liking something of his online or sending a short text. You could say, “Thought of you. Hope you're doing well.” If he answers your texts, try giving him a call. After all, hearing your voice again might remind him how much he misses you! Once you've talked for awhile, try asking him to hang out so you can see where things go from there. | Try to understand why the relationship ended. Was it a fight, cheating, or did you feel that he slowly lost interest? Understanding why he broke up with you will help you understand if trying to get him back is the best thing to do. Think about his behavior in the weeks before the breakup. This will help you determine if the relationship can be saved. If it was a sudden breakup resulting from a disagreement, then he just may need some cooling off time. If the relationship had been going wrong for months, then consider if trying to get him back is worth the effort. Evaluate the cause of the argument. If it was an argument that led to the breakup, understanding why the fight happened will help you fix it. Was it your first fight, or was the fighting consistent? People fight, break up, and make up all the time. But if it was a pattern, this indicates bigger problems in the relationship as a whole. If the fight was physical, understand that physical violence is never okay. It is not a good idea to get back into a relationship with someone who uses physical violence against you. Alternatively, it is never okay to use violence against a partner. Seek help from friends, family, and possibly a doctor if you have or have had thoughts about harming your partner. Consider if you could get past cheating. If the relationship ended due to cheating, think about if a healthy relationship will be possible. More often than not, a relationship that ended due to cheating should stay that way. If he cheated, consider if you could truly forgive him. You may be reacting emotionally if the breakup was recent. If you cheated, consider if trying to get him back is fair to him. The betrayal of cheating is difficult for most people to get past. There was probably a root cause for the cheating. It is possible that the one who did the cheating was not satisfied in the relationship. Understand why he lost interest. If the relationship faded because of a loss in interest, then consider the reason. The timing could have been off, you may have been going through a hard time, or you may not be the right person for him. He could have lost interest because one of you changed. You may have gone through a temporary change due to difficult circumstances, or you may have changed for the better. Sometimes people grow apart. If the relationship ended because one or both of you changed, then it might be best for both of you to move on. Accept the mistake. If you think that you did something wrong, you should accept it, and prepare yourself to admit your wrongdoing. Understand that if you caused him pain, he was probably hurt by your actions. Make sure that you will do your best to not make the mistake again. If he takes you back, then it is important to not repeat your mistakes. Understand your intentions. Consider if you truly want him to take you back, or if you only want him back because he broke up with you. You may feel the need to prove to yourself that you can get him back if your confidence was hurt when you were broken up with. Alternatively, the breakup might have made you realize how much you care for him. Do not try to get back together with him if you do not have honest intentions. This will only lead to heartbreak for both parties. Be patient. It might take a short period of time to get him back, or it may be a long process. Either way, you will need to give him some space. Decide on a length of time with no contact. You may want to cut off contact for a week, month, or even a few months. The amount of time without any contact depends on the circumstances of the relationship and your breakup. Try cutting off contact for a week if you think a short period of time without contact is best for you. If the breakup was especially hard, avoid contact for at least a month. During this period, do your best not to return his messages or calls if he contacts you. You may decide to make contact after a while, but cutting off contact completely will help renew his interest. Stop calling and texting him. You need to stop making contact if you have been calling or texting your ex-boyfriend over and over again. By stopping contact, you are giving your boyfriend breathing space to cool down. This will also give him a chance to consider if he made a mistake. Avoid contacting him through social media. You might want to consider unfriending him on social media, but that is not necessary. It is, however, important to avoid commenting on or liking anything he posts. Do not message him either. Unfriend him only if you find it too difficult to avoid contacting him or looking at what he posts. Otherwise, it is best to leave that form of communication open for the future. Don't look at what he posts on social media. It will only hurt more to see him having a good time without you. Try to avoid seeing him in person. Avoid going to his favorite hangouts, or going to outings with mutual friends for a while. Don't alter your own life too much, but try to avoid interacting with him in person. Stay friendly and professional if you work or go to school with your ex-boyfriend, but don't talk to him unless it's necessary. Sit back and relax. Don't put too much effort into avoiding your ex-boyfriend. Try your best to focus on other things you enjoy. He may realize your value if you do not react to the breakup in a desperate or needy manner. Allow yourself time to feel sad. It is normal to feel emotional after a breakup. Don't try to suppress your sadness. You will be able to approach getting back together with a clear mind once you release your emotions. Feeling sad as a result of your breakup is normal. You should seek help if the sadness reflects in all aspects of your life and does not improve over time. Seek help if your sleeping, eating, and concentration is affected for more than two weeks. Definitely seek help if you are having thoughts of self-harm or suicide. Don't get too weighed down by self-pity. Allow yourself time to feel sad, but don't forget the positive aspects of yourself. Release your emotions in a creative way. Try writing your thoughts down in a journal, painting, or even writing songs. Writing and art are therapeutic ways to handle your thoughts and feelings. Make time for friends and family. Sometimes a breakup can leave you feeling alone, and it is common to lose contact with a few friends during the course of a relationship. Spend the time apart from your ex-boyfriend connecting with friends and family. Being around the people you love is a positive way to build confidence and mend hurt feelings. Make a positive change in your appearance. There is nothing wrong with the way you look now, but often a change of appearance is a quick way to gain confidence. The change in appearance can be as small as getting your teeth cleaned, or as dramatic as a new hair color. Buy a new outfit. New clothes can show off just how how fun, sexy, or edgy you are. Start working out. A healthy change in lifestyle is beneficial to you, and your ex-boyfriend may notice the change. Try something new. Now is a great time to try something you've been wanting to do. Doing something new is a good way to take your mind off of the breakup and prevent you from contacting him too soon. Take a yoga class. Go on a trip to a new destination. Take a cooking class. Volunteer at a homeless shelter. Remember who you are. Being broken up with doesn't make you any less of a person. Take this time to remember what aspects of you made your ex-boyfriend fall for you in the first place. Consider your strengths, but also consider your weaknesses. Don't dwell on your weaknesses. Instead, think of ways to improve them. Make contact when you are truly ready. Try to stick to the amount of time you decided on to avoid contacting him. Don't convince yourself to contact him after a short amount of time because you feel the urge to do so. Contacting him with a clear and strong mind will benefit both you and your ex-boyfriend. Start small. Make your first attempt at contact by liking what he posts on social media. If you aren't friends with him on social media, then send him a brief text. If you send a text, don't initiate too long of a conversation. Tell him you hope he's doing well, or that you saw something that made you think of him. Send him a text message. Start by sending him a basic greeting, or ask how he's doing. Try to initiate a light conversation. Do not tell him that you miss him, love him, or want him back yet. Don't text him repeatedly if he does not answer back. Wait at least a few days or a week before trying again. If he never answers back, do not continue contacting him. Give him a call. Once he starts answering your texts, try calling him. Hearing your voice after time apart could remind him how much he misses having you in his life. Try not to talk about the relationship just yet. Update him on your life, and ask about what has been going on with him. Don't get emotional or angry if he does not react in the way you would like at first. Ask him out. You don't have to ask him on a date just yet. Try asking him to hang out or meet up for an activity. Ask him out for coffee. Suggest going on a hike or walk together. Ask him to go to a movie or event that would interest him. Take it slow. Don't expect to jump back into the relationship you once had with him. Understand that he might still be hurt or confused. Spend time together in a friendly manner, but don't try to force anything. Tell him what new things you have tried during your time apart. Utilize the confidence you gained during the breakup to remind him how fun and friendly you are. Ease into the suggestion of getting back together. Tell him that you enjoy spending time with him, let him know that you would like to be in a romantic relationship again. Don't beg him to take you back as soon as he starts to feel comfortable with you again. Do not ask to get back together at first. Tell him that you have getting back together in mind. Let him know that you would like to get back together by telling him that you think you've spent enough time apart to start fresh. Talk it through. You may want to start with a clean slate, but understand that it will be difficult to get back together without talking about the past. Listens to his feelings and concerns. Talk calmly with him about your side of the story. Talk through your differences and come to an agreement. Do not jump back into a relationship without resolving the problems that led to the breakup. Respect his decision. He may agree to get back together, but he may think it's best to stay broken up. Don't get angry with him if he doesn't want you back. Understand that the situation is out of your control. Do not bring up the past if you do get back together. Talk about the past before you decide to begin a relationship. Don't react badly if he decides not to get back together. He might not be ready yet. Don't sabotage future chances by reacting emotionally. Ask if his decision to not get back together is final. Accept that you will not be in a relationship with him again. Remember that another person does not define your worth. Regardless of the outcome, your worth is not determined by a romantic partner. Stay confident and independent regardless of the outcome of his decision. | Try to understand why the relationship ended. Evaluate the cause of the argument. Consider if you could get past cheating. Understand why he lost interest. Accept the mistake. Understand your intentions. Be patient. Decide on a length of time with no contact. Stop calling and texting him. Avoid contacting him through social media. Try to avoid seeing him in person. Sit back and relax. Allow yourself time to feel sad. Release your emotions in a creative way. Make time for friends and family. Make a positive change in your appearance. Try something new. Remember who you are. Make contact when you are truly ready. Start small. Send him a text message. Give him a call. Ask him out. Take it slow. Ease into the suggestion of getting back together. Talk it through. Respect his decision. Remember that another person does not define your worth. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Out-of-Your-Own-Way | How to Get Out of Your Own Way | If you want to succeed, get out of your own way by combatting your negative thoughts with positive self-talk. For example, if you start to think that you'll never be able to run a marathon, remind yourself that everyone starts somewhere and that you can achieve your goals when you work hard. You should also cultivate a positive mindset by writing down, acknowledging, and celebrating your achievements, which can help you realize your full capabilities. In addition, take care of your mental and physical health by getting enough sleep each night, making time for your hobbies, and talking to your friends. When you spend more time with positive people who lift you up, you'll find it easier to keep a positive mindset, so try to minimize the time you spend with negative people. | Confront your inner dialogue that holds you back. The messages you tell yourself determine your perception of yourself, as well as your ability to accomplish your goals. If your inner dialogue is negative, you may become the greatest obstacle to your own success. Look for the following types of statements: “I'm not good enough.” “Everyone knows I don't belong here.” “I'll probably just fail again.” “Everyone else is ahead of me/doing better than I am.” “I waited too long/wasted too much time.” Counter negative inner dialogue with positive self-talk. Notice when your inner voice feeds you negative messages. When this happens, replace that thought with a positive message. Over time, the negative messages should diminish. As an example, you might notice this negative thought: “I'll never be able to finish a race that long.” You could replace that with, “Everyone starts somewhere. If I work hard, train smart, and stick to it, I can accomplish my goal.” Remember, everyone experiences self-doubt sometimes—it's not likely to ever go away completely. However, you can learn to recognize those thoughts as they arise, and with practice, you can learn not to listen to them. Determine the source of your fears about failure or success. It's normal to have fears, but they can hold you back if they're left unchecked. You need to figure out what you're afraid of so you can confront it. Question the reasons behind your fears, then face them head on to challenge their truth. Ask yourself questions like these: What am I afraid will happen? What in my past has made me afraid to put myself out there? Why do I think I will fail? What will happen if I fail? How can I overcome my fear? Acknowledge your feelings without letting them control you. Trying to suppress your feelings won't make them go away. Instead, they'll just bubble beneath the surface waiting to explode. Let your emotions come and acknowledge how you feel. Then, release them. For example, you may notice you feel sad about losing a competition. Say to yourself, “I'm sad right now because I really wanted to win.” Allow this feeling to pass. Stop comparing yourself to others. Don't let someone else's life become your measuring stick for yours. You'll always come up short because you only see the highlights in their life, not the daily struggles. No one's journey is the same as yours, so you can only compare yourself to you. Use the past version of you as your measuring stick. As long as you're improving upon yesterday, you're on the right track! For example, don't compare your life to what you see posted on social media. People usually post only their best moments and may even misrepresent how well they're doing. It's not a fair comparison! Acknowledge your accomplishments. Celebrating your talents, efforts, and achievements helps build your confidence. This helps you realize your full capabilities. Here are some ways you can note your accomplishments: Write down all of your achievements, both small and large. Accept compliments from others. Say, “Thank you,” not “It was nothing.” Share your achievements with others. Display awards you receive and accolades you earn. Practice self care. Taking good care of yourself supports your mental, physical, and emotional wellbeing. Proper self care helps you operate at your best and maintain a healthy mindset. These are some examples of self care: Get enough sleep each night. Soak in a hot bath. Enjoy your favorite hobbies. Create something, such as a painting or craft. Go for a nature walk. Spend time with your pet. Journal. Engage in a spiritual practice. Make a gratitude list. Watch a funny movie. Talk to a friend. Give yourself the tools you need. Make sure you have all of the things you need to work toward your goal. Place them within easy use so you can get to work immediately. This will make it easier for you to get to work and avoid procrastination. You can store your tools within reach by placing them in a stylish container or choosing items that blend into your decor. For example, a writer might keep a cute notebook and a patterned pen cup on their side table. As another alternative, you might get a storage cube for your home. You could get cute fabric drawers for your cube to hold your supplies, such as workout gear, craft supplies, art supplies, or filmmaking gear. Do what’s right for you, not everyone else. Trying to please others is not only impossible, it's also detrimental to your own goals. You can't make everyone happy, but you do hold your own happiness in your hands. Make decisions that work for you without apologizing for meeting your own needs. This doesn't mean to be unkind or selfish to others. Just don't make decisions because you think it's what will make everyone else happy at the expense of your needs. Surround yourself with positive people. You've likely heard the old saying, “Misery loves company.” This reminds you that negative people will drag you down. On the other hand, positive people will lift you up! Spend more time with people who are supportive of you, while minimizing the time you spend with negative people. If you want to meet new friends who share your goals, join groups on sites like Meetup and Facebook to meet new people. Going out and interacting with people will also help you meet new friends! Build your own community by helping others. Share what you have to offer with others. For example, you might offer your knowledge, experience, or abundance with others. Not only will this help you be more positive, but it'll help you build valuable relationships. You can volunteer with an organization or just help people you know. Any assistance you provide has value. Avoid ruminating on your thoughts by taking action. Getting stuck in your own head is one of the worst ways you can get in your own way. You need to break free from your cycling thoughts. Taking any action can help you do that! Here are some examples of ways to take action: Go for a walk. Take a small step toward your goal. Meet a friend for coffee. Clean up your workspace. Purchase items you need to accomplish your goal. Connect with the present moment by engaging your 5 senses. Being in the present helps you avoid getting caught up in “what ifs” and overthinking. You can ground yourself in the present by focusing on each of your five senses. Here's how: Describe the setting around you. Listen to the sounds you can hear. Smell the air, trying to pick up scents. Notice how your feet feel against the ground or how your bum feels on the seat. Touch the different textures around you. Taste the air or enjoy a flavorful treat. Meditate daily for at least 10 minutes. When you meditate, your mind becomes more resistant to overthinking. That's because meditation teaches you to release your thoughts instead of holding onto them. By spending time each day in meditation, you can help yourself overcome thinking that holds you back. Do a simple meditation by sitting in a quiet room with your eyes closed. Simply notice your breath and release your thoughts. Guided meditations can help you get more out of your practice. You can find them online or on an app. There are several free apps for meditation, including Insight Timer, Calm, and Headspace. Live in the moment, not your future or past. Getting caught up in future worries or past mistakes will make it hard for you to move forward. This turns you into your own obstacle! Instead, let your mindfulness exercises help you stay in the present. Your life is happening now, so don't miss it. Living in the present doesn't mean you can't plan for your future. However, don't let your concerns about the future stop you from living today. If you struggle to let go of a painful past, work with a therapist to learn to let go. Let go of perfectionism. Trying to attain perfection is harmful and unproductive No one is perfect. Everyone fails, and your failures can be your best teachers. In addition, feeling like you have to be perfect can make it hard to even start trying to achieve your goals. Do your best and let that be enough. If you tried your hardest, you've accomplished something. Be proud of yourself! Celebrate your effort rather than the outcome. For example, be proud that you trained for a race, even if you came in last. If you make a mistake, take a good look at what happened to see if you can learn from it. Avoid procrastination by taking small daily steps toward your goals. Procrastination is a common struggle and can prevent you from reaching your goals. The longer you put something off, the harder it seems. You don't have to do everything at once, so get started with baby steps. Set a goal to work for 15-20 minutes at a time. Use the timer on your phone to keep yourself accountable. Focus on the steps you need to take, not the final product. Ask for help when you need it. Make time for your goals by saying “no” to unimportant activities. Putting too much on your plate makes it hard to find time to do the things you want. Keeping yourself busy does not make you a more important person. Give yourself permission to say “no” when you need to. For example, don't take on tasks that others can do for themselves. Similarly, don't take on responsibilities that aren't yours. Don't agree to go to events if you don't want to go. Your time is valuable, so spend it doing something you like. Speak up when you have a problem with something. You need to be able to advocate for your own needs. No one can read your mind, so the only way they'll know how you feel is if you tell them. You have a right to share your opinions, so speak up! Use a calm, professional tone to explain how you feel. You might say, “I feel like I'm doing the bulk of the work on our project. Can we review the workload again?” Make sure your motivation is internal. You're more likely to be successful if you're pursuing a goal that is your own rather than one you feel forced on you. Consider your purpose and motivation for accomplishing this goal. Pursue goals that matter to you, not others. Think about the reason a goal is important to you. That can help you narrow down exactly what you should be working towards, and it can also help you stay motivated. In some cases you might be working toward a goal that isn't a top priority for you but is still important. For example, your goal might be to excel in a course you find boring and purposeless. When this happens, refocus your efforts by considering how this goal will help you reach your overall goal, such as getting into your desired college. Break your goal down into small steps. Looking at your goal as a whole can be overwhelming. Instead, create a checklist of the small tasks you need to do to reach your goal. It doesn't have to be a perfect plan, as you can adjust it along the way. If your goal is very large, you might create smaller sub-steps for each action you need to take. Be flexible. It's normal for your plans to change. However, making progress towards smaller goals can help you stay motivated. Adjust your plans as necessary. As you accomplish each step, take a moment to assess your progress. Based on your experience and current outcomes, make changes to your plan, if necessary. If you're struggling to accomplish a step, consider if you've set expectations that are too high. You might be attempting too much at once. Keep the promises you make to yourself. Reaching your goals will take good self-discipline, so hold yourself accountable. Letting yourself down can make you feel bad about yourself, but staying true to your word will help you feel confident. You may have days when you can't keep all of your promises to yourself. As long as you do your best, give yourself credit for trying. Consider why you couldn't meet your goals that day, then adjust as necessary moving forward. Take regular breaks. Don't expect yourself to work constantly, as no one can keep up with this pace. Give yourself permission to rest, relax, and blow off steam. In the long run, you'll be more productive! Dedicate one weeknight each week to relaxation. Spend one weekend day engaging in fun or relaxing activities. Take a few vacation days each year. Enjoy your holidays with your favorite traditions. | Confront your inner dialogue that holds you back. Counter negative inner dialogue with positive self-talk. Determine the source of your fears about failure or success. Acknowledge your feelings without letting them control you. Stop comparing yourself to others. Acknowledge your accomplishments. Practice self care. Give yourself the tools you need. Do what’s right for you, not everyone else. Surround yourself with positive people. Build your own community by helping others. Avoid ruminating on your thoughts by taking action. Connect with the present moment by engaging your 5 senses. Meditate daily for at least 10 minutes. Live in the moment, not your future or past. Let go of perfectionism. Avoid procrastination by taking small daily steps toward your goals. Make time for your goals by saying “no” to unimportant activities. Speak up when you have a problem with something. Make sure your motivation is internal. Break your goal down into small steps. Adjust your plans as necessary. Keep the promises you make to yourself. Take regular breaks. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Build-Your-Upper-Arm-Muscles | How to Build Your Upper Arm Muscles | Building your upper arm muscles is easy once you learn how to work out your triceps, biceps, and deltoids. To build your triceps, try doing push-ups. You can also do tricep presses, dips, or rope pull-downs if you have access to gym equipment. To work out your biceps, try doing arm curls or chin-ups. You can also do reverse grip bent rows with a barbell. Work out your deltoids with upright rows and shoulder flies. Another good exercise to try is standing barbell presses. Aim to do around 10 reps for each exercise and 2 to 3 sets total. | Identify your triceps. Triceps are a group of three muscles running from your outer elbow up to your shoulder along the back part your upper arm. They are used for elbow extension, which is when you uncurl your arm or bend outward at the elbow. You can see them by holding your arm straight and trying to overextend slightly at the elbow -- the triceps are the v-shaped muscles on your outer arm. You'll need to train all three parts of your triceps from multiple positions and angles to see the best results. Do laying tricep presses. Aptly nicknamed "skullcrushers," these isolate your triceps perfectly. Lay on a bench with a barbell in both hands. Lay the barbell over your forehead with your elbows pointing down and your hands shoulder-width apart. Bending only from your elbows, push the weight up until your elbows are almost fully extended. Slowly return the bar to your forehead for one full rep. Do 3 sets of 10-12 reps. Your elbows may angle out a little bit, but you should try and keep them as parallel to your body as possible. Do dips. Dips utilize the weight of your entire body, making them crucial tricep building exercises. Grab a hold of a set of parallel bars, lifting your body up with your arms extended. Slightly bend your knees back and cross your ankles. Slowly lower your body down until your elbows are bent 90°, then raise yourself back up. Do 3 sets of 8-10 reps. Keep your torso roughly perpendicular to the ground. Do not let your elbows butterfly outward. Do rope or cable pull-downs. This only works at a gym, with a rope that pull down from above your head with adjustable weight. Stand facing the rope, feet a few inches apart. Grab the ends of the rope with your arms bent 90°, then bend at the elbow to pull the rope down to your thighs. Slowly return the rope to starting position. Keep your shoulders down as you exercise -- only your elbows and lower arms will move down. To make it even harder, curve your wrists slowly out from the bottom so that your palms face outward. Do dumbbell extensions. Sit with a dumbbell in each hand. Push them up to the sky so that your elbows are by your ears and your palms face each other. Slowly lower the dumbbells back behind your head by bending at the elbows. Your shoulders should stay solid. Once the weight is behind your head, unbend your elbows and push your hands up to the sky. Do 3 sets of 10-12 reps. Be careful lowering the weight -- you don't want to feel your arms being pulled back behind you. Keep the weight in control. You can also use a cable for this exercise, pulling a low-hung cable from behind your back upwards towards the sky. Move your hands closer together for close-grip push-ups or bench presses that target your triceps. Take your normal chest exercises and use them to target your triceps by simply placing your hands closer together, roughly 6-8" inches apart. You will likely need to lower the weight for a bench-pressing or lower the reps for your push-ups. Push-ups : Place your hands together in the under center of your chest, using your thumbs and pointer fingers to form a diamond under your breastbone. With body elongated and toes on the ground, lower yourself down so that your elbows flare out, then push back up to starting position. Bench-Press: Sit under the bar with your hands gripping roughly nipple width apart instead of your usual shoulder length. Lower the bar down to your chest, then use your triceps to push it back to starting position. Like usual, make sure you have a "spotter" behind you to catch any falling weight should it slip. Identify your biceps. The biceps are a group of two muscles running from your inner elbow to the top of your arm where it meets you torso. It is the bulging muscle you see when you curl your arm up at a 90° angle, and this is its primary function. The biceps are used for elbow flexion, or any time you curl your arm. Do bicep curls. The most basic and powerful bicep workout, curls get the most "bang for your buck." Take a barbell in both hands and hold it by your thighs, both arms extended but bent slightly at the elbow. Curl the bar up to your chest, then slowly lower it back down. Do 3 sets of 10-12 reps. Proper form, however, is incredibly important: Keep your shoulders down. Your back should be straight, no bending or leaning to make the exercise easier. Be slow and in control -- using your momentum means you aren't using your muscles. Do reverse grip bent rows. Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bend at the waist (not the back) so that you are at a roughly 45° angle. Grip a barbell underhanded, so that your palms face upwards and your arms are straight. Pull the bar up to your chest by pulling your elbows back and curling up at the same time. Do 3 sets of 3-5 reps. Think about contracting different muscles, such as your back or biceps, to change the focus of this exercise. Do chin ups. Grab a pull-up bar with both hand so that your palms face you and both pinkies are on the inside of your grip. Your hands should be a little less than shoulder width apart. Bend your knees slightly and cross your ankles Pull your chin up above the bar, keeping your torso straight. Do as many reps as you can -- pull-ups are difficult without a lot of training. If you are struggling, try reverse chin-ups. Step on a box that allows you to start with your chin already above the bar and then pick your feet up. Slowly (over the course of 3-5 seconds), lower yourself back down to the box. Do individual arm curls. There are many variations on this, but they all use the same idea. Grip a barbell in one hand and, without using any other muscles, curl the weight up to your shoulder. Your lower arm and elbow should be the only things that move, allowing your biceps to get a full workout. Try placing your elbow on your thigh while sitting. You can then use your other hand to hold it in place while you curl up. Standing curls can allow you to work out both arms at once, alternating as you curl. You can even change the angle of your wrist to get slightly different parts of the bicep. Rotating them so that your thumbs are on top works the biceps slightly differently-- these are called "Hammer Curls." Identify your deltoids. The deltoids, or delts, are you outer shoulder muscles. They form a triangle from your shoulder that points down your upper arm, stopping 4-5" down. The deltoids are used to raise your arms in a wing-like motion, where your elbows go outward. Strong deltoids also protect your rotator cuff, the major joint in your shoulder. Do standing dumbbell presses. Stand with your feet shoulder length apart, with a dumbbell in each hand. Raise the dumbbells so that your arms are bent 90° and the weight is near your ears. Your palms should face forward. In one fluid, smooth motion, push your hands up to the sky as if you were surrendering. Slowly return the weight to your ears to complete one rep. Do 3 sets of 10-12 reps. A good starting weight is 10-15lbs. Do shoulder flies. Let your arms hang by your sides, with feet shoulder width apart. With a dumbbell in each arm, bend your arms 90° at the elbow so that the weights are out in front of your body at roughly waist height. Lift your elbows up and to the sides, as if they were wings. Once your elbow is even with your shoulder, slowly lower them back down. Focus on keeping your lower arm and wrists firm and even with your elbow -- do not let them drop and put stress on your elbow joints. Do 3 sets of 10-12 reps. You can also keep your arms straight and use kettle bells, which hang from a handle, instead of dumbbells. You can do these with resistance bands as well. Stand on the center of the band with each hand holding an end. With your arms extended at your sides, lift your arms out to the sides, as if they were wings, then return them with control to your sides. Do upright rows. Grab a barbell with both hands shoulder width apart. Stand up straight, holding the bar with your hands extended. Pull the bar straight up, along your torso, to your chin. Both elbows should point outwards when the bar is at your chin. Remember to keep your back and torso straight as you lift. Do 3 sets of 10-12 reps. You can also do this with cable weights. Set the cable to start from the ground and pull it up just like a barbell. Do front arm raises. Grab a dumbbell in one hand. With your back straight and your feet firmly planted. Your arm should be fully extended by your side. Raise the weight, arm extended, in front of your body until your elbow is at shoulder height in front of you. Slowly lower the weight back down. Do 3 sets of 10-12 reps with each arm. Do not let the weight rotate to either side, as this can cause joint damage. Do not bend your back or lean to make the exercise easier. Do neutral grip chin-ups. The neutral grip means that your palms are both facing inward, towards each other. Grab the pull-up bar along the perpendicular grips, so that your thumb faces you and your pinkies face away. Pull your chest up to the bar so that your chin is even with your hands -- you will be at a roughly 45° angle with the ground. Slowly lower yourself back down, straightening your torso. Start with 3-5 reps, for as many sets as you can muster. Stretch before lifting. Stretching will enable more flexibility during exercises. This also increases the amount of time you can exercise and decreases the chance of pulling a muscle. Perform each stretch for 12-15 seconds. Some good stretches include: With your arms extended at your sides, rotate them in small circles. Slowly increase the size of the circles until you are making large, windmill-like motions. Cross one arm over your chest at shoulder height. Take the other arm and pull the arm towards you by gripping on the tricep. Reach with one arm back towards the center of your back so that your elbow is pointing up. Grab the elbow with your other hand and gently push it down so that you feel the stretch on the back of your arm. Interlock your fingers, extend your arms, and lightly push from the center of your fingers out, all while keeping them interlocked. Aim for 2-3 exercises for each muscle group, each workout. Trying to do all of these exercises on the same day, especially when you are just starting out, will be very difficult. Instead, do an upper arm day where you do 2-3 exercises for each muscle group. The next time you work out, do 2-3 different exercises for each muscle. This keeps you fresh and prevents your muscles from acclimating to the workout, which slows muscle building. Take a rest day between workouts. Your muscles need time to grow, as muscle building involves ripping old fibers and replacing them with new ones. If you keep working out every day your body will never have the chance to build muscle and you risk injury. You can, however, work out other muscles during in-between days, like doing a leg workout. Choose a weight that challenges you but doesn't hurt. Start on lower weights and work up as you get stronger. As you are starting out, look for weights that challenge you on the last 3 reps of the first 2-3 sets, then really challenge you on the last set. Challenge means that you should aim for a weight you can still lift, but have to work to do so. You should struggle a bit on the last few reps, but you can push through the effort it to finish the set. You should not be in pain -- this is the sign of potential injury. It should be hard because you are tired, not hurting. Add weight slowly as you get stronger. If you are no longer tired after 10 reps, it's time to add weight. Most upper arm muscles can't handle a lot of weight, so start at 10-15 lbs and move up or down from there by 2.5-5lbs. Remember that you want good, controlled lifts and releases on each exercise -- not jerking up and down. | Identify your triceps. Do laying tricep presses. Do dips. Do rope or cable pull-downs. Do dumbbell extensions. Move your hands closer together for close-grip push-ups or bench presses that target your triceps. Identify your biceps. Do bicep curls. Do reverse grip bent rows. Do chin ups. Do individual arm curls. Identify your deltoids. Do standing dumbbell presses. Do shoulder flies. Do upright rows. Do front arm raises. Do neutral grip chin-ups. Stretch before lifting. Aim for 2-3 exercises for each muscle group, each workout. Take a rest day between workouts. Choose a weight that challenges you but doesn't hurt. Add weight slowly as you get stronger. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Test-Your-IQ | How to Test Your IQ | To test your IQ, take the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale test if you're over the age of 16, or take the Stanford-Binet Intelligence Scale test if you're 16 years old or younger. If you're on a budget, sign up to take the Mensa admissions test, which includes an IQ test. You can also take free IQ tests online, but keep in mind that these tests often have inaccurate scores and aren't considered a real measurement of IQ. | Take the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) to test your verbal and performance-based IQ. The WAIS is an appropriate IQ assessment for individuals over the age of 16. This is the primary assessment used to measure cognitive ability by professionals. Currently, the test involves IQ measurement on four scales: verbal comprehension, perpetual reasoning, working memory, and processing speed. The Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children (WISC) is available for children ages 6-16, and the Wechsler Preschool and Primary Scale of Intelligence (WPPSI) is an accurate IQ assessment for children ages 2-7. The WAIS is not considered an accurate IQ measurement for extremely high or low IQs (above 160 or below 40). Take the Stanford–Binet Intelligence Scale if you are a child or adolescent. Although the Stanford-Binet test can be used for adults, this IQ assessment was initially developed for children. The age-determined questions are best suited for young children, adolescents, and young adults. It is not uncommon for preschoolers to receive a low score on the Stanford-Binet assessment, not because of their intelligence but their unwillingness to cooperate. Take the Mensa admissions test if you're on a budget. Mensa International offers membership to their community for those with high IQs as recorded on their own or other authorized IQ tests. The Mensa admissions test is one of the most widely-available IQ measurements as well as the most affordable. The test is administered at set times during the year and costs $40 USD. Generally, the Mensa assessment takes around two hours. Make sure you take an accredited IQ test. Besides the WAIS, Stanford-Binet, and Mensa admissions tests, other authentic IQ tests exist. For the most trusted tests, go to a licensed psychologist who can either proctor the test for you or direct you to an official testing center. Take online tests for a fun but unreliable score. Official IQ tests, like the WAIS or the Stanford-Binet scale, are scientific measurements of intelligence. Unauthorized tests online are usually free and cheaper, but they are highly inaccurate. Most will give you an inflated or randomized and thus meaningless score. Take online practice tests to assess your weaknesses. Studying for an IQ test can be tough, especially because most are meant to measure your raw intellectual potential. Familiarizing yourself with sample questions and the different sections of the IQ test, however, could help you do your best. Mensa International offers a free "Practice Workout" online. Use positive visualization to imagine yourself doing well on the test. Healthy mindsets go a long way when preparing for a test. If you're feeling nervous in the days leading up to the test, visualize yourself taking the IQ test while calm and well-rested. Picture yourself doing the best you can do and feeling satisfied. Visualization can give you the confidence you need to do your best. Don't just imagine yourself doing well without working for it. Make your imagination a reality by practicing and preparing as best as you can. Practice stress-relief techniques. You will do best on the IQ test if you feel relaxed and trust your mental capabilities. Relieving yourself of unnecessary stress can help you do that. Different people find stress relief in different ways, so discover what works for you before the test. Meditation, breathing techniques, and reframing negative thoughts are all great ways to stay calm. Avoid drinking caffeine the day of your IQ test, as this can cause agitation. A little stress can be positive, as it's the body's way of telling you to focus. Excessive stress, however, is detrimental and can limit your cognitive functioning. Give yourself a 24-hour break before the test. Over-studying right before the exam could exhaust your brain. Preserve your energy the day before. Turn on an entertaining movie or go for a walk to clear your mind. If you have to study, make some flash cards beforehand and practice casually with some healthy snacks. Rest well the night before your exam. Pulling an all-nighter studying practice tests will most likely lower your testing performance. Get a full night's sleep (7-8 hours) the night before so you can enter the testing location ready to perform well. If you can't sleep from nerves, try a stress-relief technique. Eat a nutritious breakfast before you leave. What you eat on the day of a test can help you reach mental alertness. Have a protein-rich breakfast: eggs, yogurt, nuts, and raw vegetables are all great choices. Avoid foods made from white flour or refined sugar, which take more energy to digest. Stay hydrated, too. Drink plenty of water before the exam, and bring a water bottle with you to drink before you enter the testing room. Wear comfortable clothes to the test. Itchy sweaters, a shirt tag poking against your skin, or uncomfortable shoes could distract you from the questions. Avoid wearing new or overly formal clothes to your IQ test. Save your Sunday best for dances or job interviews, and wear clothes you enjoy to the assessment. Showing up in your pajamas may seem enticing, but opt for a balance of comfort and style. Flattering clothes can help you feel confident and ready to do your best. Arrive early. Plan to arrive around 10-20 minutes before the test begins. Allow time for traffic if you're driving so you don't arrive to the assessment in a rush. Avoiding needless stress will help clear your mind and begin the test feeling positive. Check the weather reports for your exam day several days beforehand. Run a practice drive to the testing location at least one day in advance for an accurate idea of your travel time. Focus on yourself to prevent unnecessary worrying. In a stressful situation like taking an IQ test, you may feel intimidated by the people around you. If people seem to finish before you or look calmer as they answer the questions, you may lose your confidence. Keep your attention on yourself to prevent excessive worrying. Read the directions carefully. One common mistake people make on IQ assessments is not properly interpreting the directions. Don't quickly glance at the questions and assume you read them correctly. Pore over each word, and re-read them at least once. Look at every question before answering. Use your time wisely. IQ tests are generally timed. If there is a clock in the room, keep an eye on approximately how much time you have left. Pace yourself. If a question is too difficult, move onto the next one and come back if you can. If you can choose which questions you answer first, spend your time on the easiest questions. This will build your self-esteem and allow you to answer as many questions as possible. Divide your time limit between the questions or sections so you can plan to tackle every question. See how your score compares to the average. The average IQ score is approximately 100. Anything below 80 indicates a potential deficiency, and anything above 120 is considered high intelligence. 68% of the population falls in the 85-115 range. Scores between the WAIS and the Stanford-Binet scale vary by several points. Look at your percentile. An IQ percentile will give you an accurate sense of how your IQ compares to the general population. If your score is in the 70th percentile, for example, this means that you have scored higher than 70% of others in your age demographic. Read your score as scaled, not linear. An IQ score of 50, for example, is not half the capabilities of a score of 100. Take your age into account. Specifically, compare your age to the age range of the administered test. For example, the WISC-III is designed for children aged 6-16. Because of this, a fifteen-year-old will score higher than an equally intelligent six-year-old. This difference is not big, but it is significant. IQ-tests are designed with age in mind, so if you take the correct test for your age, getting a high score when you are young is not any more or less impressive than getting a higher score at an older age. In other words, a twelve-year-old with an IQ of 143 is not "better" than a thirty-year-old with an IQ of 143. IQ generally decreases over a lifetime. Check if you qualify for Mensa International. Mensa is the oldest and largest high IQ society, especially in the United States and England. Scores in the 98th percentile or higher qualify for Mensa. You will need a 130 or higher on the WAIS test or at least a 132 on the Stanford-Binet test. Don't equate your IQ with your potential. Intelligence is much more multi-layered than a single test could measure. IQ tests only measure verbal and academic potential. Intelligence comes in many other facets (such as social or artistic), which cannot be measured by an IQ test. View your IQ test score as a facet of your ability, not the full reflection. | Take the Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale (WAIS) to test your verbal and performance-based IQ. Take the Stanford–Binet Intelligence Scale if you are a child or adolescent. Take the Mensa admissions test if you're on a budget. Make sure you take an accredited IQ test. Take online tests for a fun but unreliable score. Take online practice tests to assess your weaknesses. Use positive visualization to imagine yourself doing well on the test. Practice stress-relief techniques. Give yourself a 24-hour break before the test. Rest well the night before your exam. Eat a nutritious breakfast before you leave. Wear comfortable clothes to the test. Arrive early. Focus on yourself to prevent unnecessary worrying. Read the directions carefully. Use your time wisely. See how your score compares to the average. Look at your percentile. Take your age into account. Check if you qualify for Mensa International. Don't equate your IQ with your potential. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Know-if-Someone-Is-Talking-Behind-Your-Back | How to Know if Someone Is Talking Behind Your Back | If you're afraid that someone's talking behind your back, pay attention to the way they talk and act around you. Since this person may be not want to be honest about their feelings towards you, watch to see if they avoid your questions. For example, if you ask them, "Are you mad about the group project?" and they change the subject, they may be avoiding how they really feel. You should also notice if the person gossips about others, since it's likely they're doing the same to you! When you walk into a room, notice if this person suddenly stops talking, which may be a sign they were bad-mouthing you. If you're still unsure whether or not they're talking behind your back, try asking a trusted friend if they've heard any rumors about you. | Listen for backhanded compliments. Pay attention to how the person you suspect of talking behind your back speaks to your face. Someone who talks about you behind your back is often angry or upset with you. These emotions can come through in how they interact with you, such as thinly veiled jabs or backhanded compliments. Even if the someone negates their nasty comments with a, “just kidding,” it may be that they are having trouble hiding their anger. An example of a backhanded compliment might be, “Congrats on getting in. I hear that's great…for a state school.” Notice if the person avoids your questions. Someone who talks about you behind your back may not want to be honest with you about their feelings. Asking the person a question or two can help you determine if they're hiding something from you. If the person is reluctant to answer or seems as though they are lying, that may mean they have been airing their grievances elsewhere. If you suspect someone is unhappy with your performance on a group project, for example, you might ask, “Are you mad about the project?” If they avoid you or say they don't want to talk, it's possible they've been talking to others about their feelings. Approach a trusted friend and ask if they’ve heard any rumors. Go to a friend you know you can trust and ask them if someone has been talking about you behind your back. Assure them that you will not implicate them if you confront the person who has been doing it. Let them know that you simply want to understand what you may have done to deserve this treatment because it's hurting your feelings. You might say, “I think Lisa is talking about me behind my back. Have you heard any rumors? I wouldn't ever tell her you told me, but I'm confused about why she's mad at me.” It's vital not to violate the trust of your friend who sheds any light on the talking behind your back. They are potentially exposing themselves to rumors and the anger of others by confiding in you. Pay attention to how the person talks about others. Someone who gossips to you about other people behind their backs also likely talks about you behind your back. If you have many friends like this, it may help to distance yourself from them if you don't want them talking about you. The next time they try to talk behind someone else's back to you, gently stop them. You could say, “You know, I really don't like to gossip about other people like this. I think it's unkind. Plus, we wouldn't want someone doing that to us, right?” Pay attention to sudden quiet when you approach a group. Listen for a group of people that makes uncomfortable eye contact with each other and immediately gets quiet when you approach. The group may also avoid your gaze. Many people who talk behind the backs of others are too cowardly to confront the person directly about their feelings. They may feel awkward when you accidentally interrupt them talking about you. Notice if important people treating you differently. People who talk about you behind your back may find it hard to hide their negative feelings. They may want important figures, such as your teachers or boss, to think negative things about you, too. If people with a lot of influence in your life are suddenly treating you differently, it may be that someone is talking about you behind your back to them. For example, if your boss gives your typical weekly project to someone else, it's worth following up on. Observe if the person seems to be avoiding you. Watch for signs that the person is dodging contact with you, such as avoiding eye contact, leaving a room or group when you enter, or pretending to ignore you. Also pay attention to any electronic snubbing. Someone who usually texts or calls often who stops contact abruptly may have a bone to pick. They may be avoiding you because they feel guilty about talking behind your back, or they may be trying to telegraph that they are angry. If you're feeling bold, test the avoidance theory. If you think you see someone talking about you behind your back in a group, stroll right up and sit down. If the offending person gets up and walks away, your suspicions may be confirmed. Doing this also sends the message that you will not be intimidated. Pay attention to who the person hangs out with. Someone who hangs out with people who don't like you may not like you right now either. If a former friend is cozying up to someone who they know has been mean to you, that's a signal they may be talking behind your back. It may also be an effort to hurt you. Keep an eye out for phone hiding. Take note of any friend who hides their phone when you come around or gets uncomfortable if you look to see who's texting them. People who are bad mouthing you by talking behind your back may fear being found out. Hiding their cell phone around you may indicate that your friend has been chatting with others about you. Ignore the problem behavior. People who engage in unsavory behavior, such as talking behind a friend's back, usually feel insecure in some way. If someone you know is talking about you behind your back, know that it usually means more about that person's character than it does about yours. Try to take the high road and ignore the person doing this. You don't have to dignify their behavior with your attention. It can help you feel reassured to hang out with trusted friends or family members you know love and care for you. Avoid paranoia. If you feel bad about something you've done or don't know a new acquaintance well, it can be easy to imagine things that aren't actually happening. Don't let yourself get carried away imagining someone is talking behind your back if there is no evidence to support that idea. If you're feeling paranoid, a few deep breaths or a calming walk can help clear your head. Examine your behavior. If you're feeling guilty, it may be helpful to reflect on your behavior to examine what's not sitting right with you. Whether you've accidentally hurt a friend or knowingly done something unkind, your actions may encourage people to talk about you if they feel wronged. Reflect on what you could have done differently, if you've done anything wrong at all. Sometimes people talk about you behind your back even when you haven't done anything to deserve it. Confront the person and ask to be treated with respect. If you've done nothing to bring on the person talking about you behind your back, you may want to stop the behavior by talking directly to them. Be honest without being cruel, even if you feel the other person is out of line. Ask that they treat you with the respect you deserve in your friendship or working relationship. You might say, “I think you're talking about me behind my back, and I really don't appreciate it. If you have a problem with me, let's sort it out directly. We need to work together, and we both deserve respect. Let's find a way to put this behind us.” Tell a trusted supervisor if the behavior continues. If the other person does not stop bullying you or spreading lies behind your back, you may need to file a formal complaint against them. Whether this is with HR at your job or with a teacher you trust at your school, don't hesitate to get help if a situation has gotten out of hand. | Listen for backhanded compliments. Notice if the person avoids your questions. Approach a trusted friend and ask if they’ve heard any rumors. Pay attention to how the person talks about others. Pay attention to sudden quiet when you approach a group. Notice if important people treating you differently. Observe if the person seems to be avoiding you. Pay attention to who the person hangs out with. Keep an eye out for phone hiding. Ignore the problem behavior. Avoid paranoia. Examine your behavior. Confront the person and ask to be treated with respect. Tell a trusted supervisor if the behavior continues. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Control-Excessive-Sweating | How to Control Excessive Sweating | To control excessive sweating, start by switching to a stronger or prescription-strength antiperspirant and remember to apply it before you go to sleep and again the following morning for the best results. Next, wear lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton to keep yourself cool during the day, and opt for dark colored clothing if you need to mask the appearance of sweat stains. It's also a good idea to avoid spicy foods, smoking, alcohol, and caffeine to prevent excessive sweating. | Switch to a stronger antiperspirant. The first thing to do when attempting to combat excessive sweating is to switch to an antiperspirant with a stronger formula. While prescriptions are required for the strongest of these, there are several clinical strength formulas available over-the-counter from brands like Dove and Secret. Be aware of the difference between antiperspirants and deodorants. Antiperspirants will actually clog the sweat glands and prevent excess moisture, while deodorants simply mask odors. Therefore, if you are suffering from excess sweating, it's important that you use an antiperspirant (although antiperspirant-deodorants are also available). Prescription-strength antiperspirants typically contain 10 to 15 percent of an active ingredient called aluminum chloride hexahydrate. This ingredient is highly effective at reducing perspiration but can sometimes cause skin irritation, so you may need to shop around to find a formula that works for you. Some people are also opposed to wearing antiperspirants due to the alleged links between the aluminum-based compounds found in antiperspirants and diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's. However, multiple clinical studies have found no evidence to support this link. Apply antiperspirant at night. This may come as a surprise, but doctors recommend applying your antiperspirant at nighttime, just before bed. The reason for this is that it takes approximately six to eight hours for the antiperspirant to enter the sweat ducts and adequately clog the pores. Your body also tends to stay cooler and calmer while you're sleeping, which reduces sweating and prevents the antiperspirant from being washed away before it has time to sink in (which is what happens when you only apply antiperspirant in the morning). However, it is a good idea to apply the antiperspirant a second time, after your morning shower, for optimum results. Remember that antiperspirants aren't reserved for use on the armpits, they can be used almost anywhere you find yourself sweating - like the palms, feet, legs and back. Just avoid using them on the face, as stronger formulas have a tendency to cause irritation, especially on sensitive skin. Choose clothing wisely. Wearing the right clothing can make a huge difference when it comes to keeping sweating under control. Firstly, wearing breathable clothing can prevent you from sweating excessively in the first place and secondly, making clever clothing choices can help to mask sweat stains and stop you from feeling self-conscious. Wear lightweight fabrics. Lightweight, breathable fabrics - such as cotton - will allow your skin to breathe and prevent your body from overheating. Opt for lighter colors if you need to keep cool. Light colors help reflect the sun and will keep you cooler throughout the day. They will show sweat stains more than dark colors, though, so consider whether you want to prioritize staying cool or masking the sweat. Choose dark colors and patterns to mask sweat stains. Wearing dark colors and patterned clothes can help to make sweat stains less obvious or even unnoticeable, giving you greater peace of mind as you go about your day. Wear breathable shoes. If you suffer from sweaty feet, it's a good idea to invest in high-quality, breathable shoes. You can also place moisture-wicking insoles inside shoes and wear 100% cotton socks for added sweat-reducing benefits. Layer up. Layering your clothing, no matter what the season, can help with the appearance of sweat, as the bottom layers can soak up any excess moisture before it gets a chance to soak through the outer layers. Men can wear undershirts, while women can opt for a camisole. Consider using dress shields. If it's too warm for extra layers, you can also consider using dress-shields. These are small adhesive patches which you can stick to the inside of your clothing to soak up any excess moisture. They are available at most pharmacies. Shower at least once a day. Showering daily can really help to eliminate bad odors caused by excessive sweating. Interestingly, sweat does not have an odor by itself - as it is simply a mixture of water, salt, and electrolytes. Odor forms when the apocrine glands - which are found in the underarms and groin - release a viscous substance containing fats, proteins, and pheromones. This viscous substance then mixes with regular sweat and bacteria on the surface of the skin, creating the bad smell you associate with sweat. Washing daily (especially with an antibacterial soap) can help to prevent excess bacteria from building up on the surface of the skin, thus reducing odors. It is also important to wear clean clothes after a shower, as bacteria can also reside on dirty clothes. Bring a change of clothes. Keeping a spare (non-creasing) shirt or blouse in your bag at all times is a good idea if you suffer from excessive sweating. Just knowing that you always have a fresh change of clothes readily available can decrease your anxiety levels and make you feel more secure. It has been proven that worrying about your sweating can actually cause you to sweat more, so knowing that you have a safety net (in the form of a change of clothes) to fall back on can actually prevent you from sweating so much in the first place. Carry a clean handkerchief. Another sneaky back-up is to carry a handkerchief in your pocket at all times, replacing it with a clean one every day. That way, if you're confronted with the necessity of shaking hands with somebody, you can quickly and inconspicuously dry your palms first. Avoid spicy foods. Spicy foods such as hot peppers or Indian curries can increase the amount of sweat you produce, so avoid eating anything spicy - at least during lunch on workdays or on a date. Also avoid eating foods such as garlic and onions, as the strong odors associated with these foods can come out through your sweat. Overall, eating clean foods such as whole grains, fruit and veg is a good idea. Although they won't stop you from sweating, they can improve the odor of the sweat. Keep your bed cool. If you suffer from nighttime sweating, there are several things you can do to keep yourself cool in bed. Make sure you are using breathable, lightweight bed linen no matter what time of year it is. Also, make sure to choose sheets with an absorbent material such as cotton - silk or flannel sheets are not ideal. Opt for a lightweight duvet or comforter. You can always layer more blankets on if necessary, but if you're sleeping under a heavy down duvet - even in summer - it's no wonder you suffer from nighttime sweats. Reduce stress. Feeling stressed, nervous or anxious is a major sweat trigger for some people, so it makes sense that by controlling your stress levels, you can control your sweating. When you're stressed or nervous, these feelings stimulate neurotransmitters in the brain which send signals to your body to start sweating, leaving you feeling hot and bothered. To cut down on stress, try to avoid biting off more than you can chew at work. If you find yourself sweating due to nerves before a presentation or meeting your boss, focus on relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation. In the long term, things like frequent exercise and making time for family and friends will help you to reduce stress. Find other stress-reducing ideas here. Use dry shampoo. If you find that your scalp gets sweaty at the slightest physical activity, consider spritzing your hair with some dry shampoo every morning. Most dry shampoos have a powdery finish which soaks up additional moisture from the hair and scalp. Keep a travel-size bottle of dry shampoo in your purse or in a desk drawer at work - then you can have a quick spritz in the bathroom whenever you want to freshen up. Scented dry shampoos also smell great - helping to mask any sweaty odors. However, if you're looking for a more D.I.Y. option, baby powder or baking soda will also do the trick. Cut back on bad habits. Things like smoking, drinking alcohol and excessive caffeine consumption can all lead to increased sweating, so it's a good idea to cut back on these things where possible. Being overweight also leads to increased sweating, so if you could stand to lose a few pounds, that's a good place to start. See articles on quit smoking , quit drinking alcohol , quit caffeine and lose weight for help. See your doctor for a possible cause of your excessive sweating. In some instances, excessive sweating may be due to an underlying medical condition, such as menopause, heart disease, hyperthyroidism, hyperhidrosis, or some types of cancer. It is important to identify this underlying cause as soon as possible so treatment can begin. This is particularly true since some of these causes can become potentially life-threatening if they are left unchecked. Once the underlying problem is successfully treated, the patient can effectively reduce excessive sweating as well. It is also important to consider whether any medications you are currently taking could be causing the problem. Some medicines can contribute to excessive sweating, such as drugs used to treat psychiatric conditions or high blood pressure. Antibiotics and some types of supplements can also lead to the problem. This is of particular concern if the sweating appeared after the medication was started, or if the sweating is a generalized, rather than a localized, variety. Try laser hair removal on your underarms. Laser hair removal is often recommended by doctors to curb excessive sweating and eliminate bad odors. The reason this works is fairly simple - hair is present to keep the body warm, but sometimes it causes it to sweat more. Bacteria also cling to hairs much more easily, which leads to bad odors. By removing the hair, the area will sweat less and hold onto fewer bacteria, resulting in reduced odor. Laser hair removal works by targeting hair follicles with pulses of laser light which destroy them. The treatment is relatively non-painful but may require several sessions to complete. From then on, hair growth will be significantly reduced. Laser treatment can be somewhat pricey, but the results are permanent. Use prescription medication. Several drugs exist to control excessive sweating. They work by blocking nerves in the brain from communicating with sweat glands. These pills have been found very effective in some patients, so if you're interested, talk to your doctor about a prescription. Some reported side effects of these medications to include blurred vision, bladder problems, and a dry mouth. Consider iontophoresis treatment. This FDA-approved procedure is typically performed by a dermatologist and uses electrical impulses to "turn off" the sweat glands temporarily. It is particularly effective in the hands and feet. Most patients require multiple sessions to see positive results. These sessions are typically performed once a day for up to 2 weeks. After that, maintenance sessions can be done on an "as needed" basis. Few side effects are reported with this procedure and some patients eventually perform maintenance sessions as needed in the comfort of their own homes. Machines can be purchased from R.A. Fischer Co. and generally cost around $600. Patients must be trained by their doctor to use the machine properly. Consider botox injections. While typically considered an anti-aging treatment, these injections have also been proven effective in treating hyperhidrosis. The procedure works by temporarily blocking the nerves that stimulate the sweating process. This procedure is also considered relatively safe, with few unpleasant side effects and no downtime afterward. Results usually last around 4 months and repeat sessions are needed to maintain positive results. Resort to surgery, if necessary. In extreme circumstances, surgical action may be taken to remove or deactivate the sweat glands. If successful, this can stop excessive sweating for good. The two main treatments offered are: Sweat gland removal. This is performed using liposuction, via small incisions in the skin. This treatment is only possible for sweat glands in the armpits. Nerve surgery. This treatment is performed in order to cut off, clamp or destroy spinal nerves which activate excessive sweating, particularly on the palms of the hands. Unfortunately, it may accidentally trigger excessive sweating on other parts of the body. Drink more water. Sweating happens when your body temperature gets too high and your body secretes water in order to cool it down again. Drinking plenty of cool water throughout the day helps to regulate your body temperature and prevent it from getting too high in the first place, thus preventing the need to sweat. In addition, drinking lots of water allows toxins to be flushed from the body through urine, which would otherwise be sweated out through the skin. When toxins are eliminated through the skin, they mingle with sweat to create bad odors. Therefore, drinking lots of water can improve the odor of your sweat. Try to drink 6 to 8 glasses of water a day to help your sweating and provide a range of other health benefits, including clearer skin and improved digestion. Use a facial scrub on your underarms. This may sound a bit odd, but using a facial scrub on your underarms (or anywhere you experience excessive sweating) can help to exfoliate the skin and unclog pores. Do so with caution, though, as an exfoliating scrub may cause small abrasions and irritation if used too frequently or vigorously. If you notice your deodorant stings after you use a scrub under your arms, stop this treatment. Once the pores are unclogged, this will release any trapped toxins that have been blocking the pores and causing unpleasant-smelling sweat. You may sweat even more than usual at first, but after a couple of days you should notice a reduction in the volume and frequency of your sweating. Continue to use the scrub once or twice a week. Use corn starch or baking soda. Baking soda and cornstarch are great products to use on sweaty areas that are prone to irritation - like the feet or beneath the breasts. Baby powder is also a good option, but should be used with caution as some research suggests it may be linked to certain forms of cancer. When dabbed on the skin, these powders will quickly soak up any excess moisture and keep the area dry for several hours. Baking soda is antibacterial and anti-inflammatory, so it is particularly good for use on sensitive skin. However, to control sweating in the groin area it is probably best to use a product specifically designed for that purpose. Try turnip juice. Some people claim that turnip juice can be effective at reducing excessive sweating, as it reduces activity in the sweat glands. If you're willing to give it a try, you can extract the juice from a turnip by grating it with a vegetable grater, then squeezing the grated flesh. You can then apply the turnip juice directly onto the armpits or other areas affected by sweating. Alternatively, you can drink the turnip juice or use it in a healthy smoothie. Drink sage tea. Sage tea is a little-known herbal remedy for excessive sweating which is believed to prevent the sweat glands from producing too much sweat. You may be able to find sage tea in a health food store, but the tea is very easy to make yourself at home. Simply boil a handful of dried or fresh sage leaves in a pot of water. Once boiled, strain the leaves out of the liquid and leave the tea to cool slightly before drinking. One or two cups of this a day should be sufficient. Change your diet. The quality of your sweat is influenced by what you put into your body. Eating processed, artificially sweetened foods will increase the number of toxins in your system. These toxins can then clog up the pores and mingle with sweat to produce unpleasant body odor. You should avoid any kind of fast food, processed ready meals, soda, artificially colored or sweetened candy, or anything containing high fructose corn syrup as all of these foods will aggravate sweating. Instead, try to eat plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables - especially those with a high water content such as tomatoes, watermelons, cucumbers etc., whole grains, lean meat and fish, nuts, beans, and eggs. Apply lemon juice. Lemon juice can help to eliminate the negative odors associated with excessive sweating, thanks to the citric acid it contains. Simply squeeze the juice from a fresh lemon, or take a bottle of pre-squeezed lemon juice and apply the liquid directly to the areas where you sweat the most. You'll smell lemony fresh all day long! As lemon juice is acidic, it can cause irritation to sensitive skin. Avoid applying the juice to any sensitive areas or to any broken or scratched skin, as this can sting. Take a zinc supplement. Zinc is also supposed to eliminate some of the bad odors caused by sweating. Find zinc supplements at your local health food store and take according to the instructions on the label. It is always wise to consult your doctor before you begin to take any supplements. You can also get zinc naturally in your diet from foods like oysters, crab, beef, breakfast cereal, baked beans, almonds, and yogurt. Do a colon cleanse. Some people claim that performing a colon cleanse has helped them to reduce the amount they sweat. There may be some truth in this, as colon cleansing eliminates toxins from the body which could otherwise contribute to malodorous sweat. Therefore, if you have tried other options without success, performing a colon cleanse may be worth a try. | Switch to a stronger antiperspirant. Apply antiperspirant at night. Choose clothing wisely. Shower at least once a day. Bring a change of clothes. Avoid spicy foods. Keep your bed cool. Reduce stress. Use dry shampoo. Cut back on bad habits. See your doctor for a possible cause of your excessive sweating. Try laser hair removal on your underarms. Use prescription medication. Consider iontophoresis treatment. Consider botox injections. Resort to surgery, if necessary. Drink more water. Use a facial scrub on your underarms. Use corn starch or baking soda. Try turnip juice. Drink sage tea. Change your diet. Apply lemon juice. Take a zinc supplement. Do a colon cleanse. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Tell-If-a-Turtle-Is-Male-or-Female | How to Tell If a Turtle Is Male or Female | The most reliable way to tell if a turtle is male or female is to examine the bottom of its shell. If it caves inward, the turtle is most likely male, and if it doesn't cave inward, it's most likely female. You can also inspect the turtle's tail to guess what sex the turtle is. Male turtles tend to have larger and wider tails than females. Also check the turtle's cloaca, which is the small hole located under the tail. If the cloaca is closer to the tip of the tail than the shell, the turtle is likely male. If the cloaca is closer to the shell than the tip of the tail, the turtle is likely female. Finally, you can check the color and markings on the turtle. In most turtle species, males are more colorful and have more distinct markings to attract mates. | Look at your turtle’s shell. The turtle's shell, or carapace, differs slightly between male and female. An adult female turtle has a slightly longer shell than an adult male has. As a means of sexing the turtle, this method is limited because you need to make sure that the turtle is fully grown. You may assume that a turtle is male due to a smaller size when it actually has more growing to do. There can be an overlap in size between a large male and a small female, so it's not possible to predict the gender based on size alone. Examine the turtle’s plastron. The underside of the shell, which covers the turtle equivalent of a belly, is called the plastron. To check the plastron, pick the turtle up with care. They do not like to be handled and may try to bite, so grasp the turtle from the tail end so it can't reach around and snap at you. Gently turn the turtle over so you can see the underside. In male turtles, the plastron is slightly concave (curving inwards), whereas a female's is flat. A concave plastron allows for a male turtle to fit over a female's shell during mating without rolling off. The female's flatter plastron gives her more room internally in which to grow eggs. Check the turtle for a tail notch. Male turtles often have a small 'V,' or notch, at the rear end of the carapace. This is to accommodate the tail when the turtles mate. Otherwise the tail might be crushed against the underside of his shell. Look for species-specific clues. Some species of turtles have gender-specific external features. Some species that may reveal gender through coloring are: The American box turtle: 90 percent of the time, male box turtles have red or orange irises while the female has brown or yellow ones. Also, the female has a tendency to have a higher-domed, more rounded shell, whereas the male has a lower shell with more of an oval or oblong appearance. Sun turtle: If the turtle's underbelly has blue coloring, it's a male. If the underbelly does not have blue coloring, it's a female. Examine the turtle’s front claws. Male turtles use their front claws during mating rituals with female turtles. They also use their front claws to fight and to claim and defend their territory. Therefore, the claws on the males' front legs tend to be longer than the claws of female turtles. Again, this is more obvious when you have two turtles of different sexes to compare with each other. The Red-eared Slider species particularly shows a pronounced difference between the male and female front claws. Look at the turtle’s cloaca. Both male and females have an opening or vent located on the underside on the tail. This is called the cloaca, and it is located slightly differently depending on the gender. The female's cloaca is rounder and more star-shaped than the male's. It is found much closer to her body, at the base of her tail where it joins her body, almost disappearing into the shell. The male's cloaca is longer and more slit-like. It is located in the last third of the tail, towards the tip. Determine the turtle’s tail size. The male's genitalia are located within the tail, and to accommodate them, the tail is longer and thicker than a female's. The female's tail is shorter and thinner. Be aware that there is an overlap in normal sizes between male and female, so this can give you a hint, but it is not a foolproof way of sexing a turtle. Combine multiple signs to reach a conclusion. The best approach to sexing a turtle is using a combination of the suggested steps to come up with the most likely gender for the turtle. Bear in mind that some methods are less reliable than others in determining the gender of your turtle. If all the signs point in one direction, then it's more likely than not that you've determined the gender accurately. However, if the signs are mixed, you may wish to take your turtle to a vet to be certain. If you're not sure what conclusion to draw, wait until the turtle is older and try again. It is extremely difficult to sex a baby turtle. Be aware that you might have to wait years until your turtle is fully grown and you can determine the gender effectively. | Look at your turtle’s shell. Examine the turtle’s plastron. Check the turtle for a tail notch. Look for species-specific clues. Examine the turtle’s front claws. Look at the turtle’s cloaca. Determine the turtle’s tail size. Combine multiple signs to reach a conclusion. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-Crested-Gecko | How to Care for a Crested Gecko | To take care of your crested gecko, keep its terrarium warm and humid, and clean it once a week by wiping down the sides, cleaning the water dish, and removing any debris. Additionally, feed your crestie food made specifically for crested geckos 3 times a week, supplemented with treats like apricots, peaches, or crickets. You should also make sure your crestie always has access to fresh water. If your crestie is new, avoid handling it for the first 3-4 weeks, so it has time to acclimate. Then, pick it up for 5 minutes at a time to let it get used to you. | Set up a large terrarium. Crested geckos are arboreal, meaning they live in trees, so make sure to get a vertical terrarium. Cresties will love having some space. If you're starting out with a baby gecko, look for a 10-gallon vertical glass terrarium at a pet store. If you have an adult gecko (or once your baby grows up), get a 20 gallon one. You could also get a 20 gallon (75.7 L) tank and flip it vertically because crested geckos naturally climb trees, and don't crawl on the ground. If using an Exo Terra, they need a tank that's 18x18x24 in inches minimum for a juvenile gecko and 45x45x60 cm for an adult. Crested geckos need a lot of humidity. You need to mist down the entire tank at night and a small mist in the morning, in order for the water to naturally collect, so that the crested geckos can drink. you may also put a bowl of water. If it's normally very humid where you live, you can also try housing your crested gecko in a cage with screen sides. Be sure to use a digital hygrometer. Add a layer of substrate to your crestie's home. Pet stores will stock soil meant to be used in reptile houses. A mixture of peat moss or coco fiber and soil will also work just fine but when first get your pet damp paper towel will do. Whichever substrate you use, place enough in your terrarium to cover the bottom well. Place live or fake plants in the terrarium. Keep in mind that live plants need the correct type of soil and lighting. Your gecko will appreciate having lots of plants to climb on and hide under. Plants will also help regulate the humidity in the terrarium, making it more comfortable for the gecko. Live plants are best, but fake plants will give your gecko something to play on, at least. Your local pet store should stock some plants that will work great in your terrarium and will be safe for your gecko. Make sure that the plants that you buy are waterproof. Pothos and bromeliad are good options. Remember that Cresties in the wild live in bushes, trees, and things they can climb on. You can buy suction cupped plants that you can attach to the sides of your tank and on the back. Cresties only go to the ground to shed, so it doesn't matter if their habitat isn't wide. Give your crestie some things to play on. Since your crested gecko will spend most of its time inside the terrarium, try to make it an interesting habitat. Place things like pieces of driftwood or bark in the terrarium. Your crestie will love climbing on and crawling under them. Keep the terrarium warm. Cresties come from warm habitats, so they'll do best in a terrarium that's a little toasty, but make sure that it does not get too hot. The average temperature in the terrarium should hover a little below 78 °F (26 °C). It's fine if the temperature dips a below this at night, but the daytime temperature should not go below 65 °F (18 °C). If the temperature in your area is higher than cresties tolerate, make sure to put the terrarium in a cooler room. The temperature in the terrarium should never go above 78 °F (26 °C) or your gecko may become stressed. If you need to warm to terrarium to keep it comfortable for your crestie, look for a ceramic heat emitter at a pet store. Connect it to a thermostat. Place the heater over just one side of the terrarium, so that the gecko can move to a cooler side when it needs to regulate its temperature, like reptiles naturally do. Be sure to use a digital thermometer. Keep the terrarium humid. Crested geckos will thrive when the humidity is maintained at between 50 and 70 percent. To keep it humid, you can mist the terrarium once or twice per day with a spray bottle of water, or place a cool mist humidifier nearby. If you want to keep track of the exact humidity inside the terrarium, go to your pet store and buy a hygrometer that can be attached to its side. Clean your crestie's cage regularly. Spot clean the terrarium every day by wiping up any grimy spots with a paper towel. Deep clean the terrarium once a week. Wipe down the sides, clean your gecko's water dish thoroughly, and remove any debris from the plants or lay items. A cloth and water should take care of most messes inside the terrarium. If you have to use any soap, make sure to rinse it off thoroughly. Feed your gecko a balanced diet. Pet stores will carry a powder mix that contains all of the nutrients that crested geckos need. Mix this with two parts water and put it in a dish inside the terrarium. Provide your gecko as much as it wants to eat three times a week. Give your crestie some treats. While the powdered food will keep your crestie nourished, it will love a few treats as well. You can give it bits of fruit (apricots or peaches are good choices). Dusted gut loaded crickets are another snack your crestie will love and can be found at a pet store. You can also dust the crickets with calcium powder yourself before feeding them to your gecko. Give your gecko crickets or fruit three times a week if you want to supplement its regular diet, or once a week if you just want to give it a treat. Crickets should be more of a treat to your Cresties. In the wild, Cresties will eat crickets but they eat fruit too. You should give them food specifically for Crested Geckos at your local pet store. Be aware that some Cresties will NOT go to the bottom just for food. It's best if you get them a Repti-Ledge. A Repti-Ledge is a food dish that has suction cups on the back. Attach it higher up so you're Crestie doesn't have to go to the bottom just for food. Most Cresties prefer this. Provide your gecko with plentiful water. A shallow dish of water should be placed in the bottom of your crested gecko's terrarium. Keep it constantly full. Don't be concerned if your crestie also uses this dish as a potty, but make sure to clean his dish daily. Group your geckos if you have more than one (Not recommended). Crested geckos will live just fine all by themselves. However, you can house a single male together with several females, or pair a couple of females together. Just avoiding pairing two males in the same terrarium, since they can become aggressive with each other. Keep in mind that your geckos may fight even if they are not both males. Watch for signs of tail nipping, biting, or other injuries in your geckos. Separate your geckos if you notice any of these things. Make sure to ask about the sex of your geckos when you purchase them. Avoid handling your gecko at first. It takes cresties some time to get used to a new environment. After you bring yours home, don't handle it for the first three to four weeks. This will give it time to become acclimated to the new setting without becoming stressed. After a few weeks, handle your crestie for only five minutes or so at a time, at first. Do this until your gecko is at least three inches long. Handle your gecko gently. Cresties are surprisingly fragile. Falls can really hurt them. When handling yours, keep it just above a flat surface, like a table. If you need to move your gecko over a distance, keep it in its terrarium. Don't be alarmed if your gecko loses its tail. People love the colorful patterns on the skin of geckos, including their tails. However, the tails are fragile. If you handle a crestie roughly, its tail may fall off, or this may happen all by itself. This won't harm your gecko, but the tail will not grow back. Note that crested geckos get stressed out easily. When your crestie is exposed to too much light, it may change color. If you hold the gecko and its color changes to an ash gray, put it back in the terrarium and let it return to its normal color. | Set up a large terrarium. Add a layer of substrate to your crestie's home. Place live or fake plants in the terrarium. Give your crestie some things to play on. Keep the terrarium warm. Keep the terrarium humid. Clean your crestie's cage regularly. Feed your gecko a balanced diet. Give your crestie some treats. Provide your gecko with plentiful water. Group your geckos if you have more than one (Not recommended). Avoid handling your gecko at first. Handle your gecko gently. Don't be alarmed if your gecko loses its tail. Note that crested geckos get stressed out easily. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-TNT-Cannon-in-Minecraft | How to Make a TNT Cannon in Minecraft | To make a cannon in Minecraft, start by equipping 16 blocks, 11 redstone, 5 TNT blocks, 2 levers, 1 slab, and 1 bucket of water. Then, make 2 parallel rows of blocks that are 7 blocks long and separated by 1 space. Next, connect the ends of the rows with a block and place your last block on the top-left block. Once you've placed all the blocks, place a slab at the open end of the rows and fill the closed-off space with water. Then, place your levers on the back 2 corners. Finally, line the rows with redstone and put a TNT on top of the slab. | Open the Creative menu. To do so: Computer - Press the E key. Pocket Edition - Tap ⋯ Console Edition - Press the X (Xbox) or square (PlayStation) button. Place the cannon's building materials in your inventory. Move the following items from the creative inventory to your equip bar: 16 blocks - These can be anything from wool to diamond, but iron or obsidian is preferred. 1 slab - This can be any material. The best material to use is quartz. 11 redstone 1 bucket of water 2 levers 5 TNT blocks Place a seven-block-long row of blocks. Make sure that at least one end of this row is facing the direction in which you want to shoot. Place a block on the left side of the last block. You should now have a seven-block-long row with a reverse "L" shape. Place another seven-block-long row of blocks. This row should run parallel to the first row, starting on the left side of the last block you placed. Doing so will create a "U" shape that is seven blocks long and three blocks wide. Place your last block on top of the front-left block. This block is the top-left block in the "U" shape. Place the slab at the mouth of the "U". The slab should fit directly in between the front-left and front-right blocks. Pour water into the back of the cannon. At the bottom of the "U" shape, place the water to form a channel from the back of the cannon all the way up to the slab. This is what will move your TNT forward when you place it later. Place a switch on the back-left and back-right blocks. These switches will function as your cannon's triggers. Leave the middle block blank. You won't put anything here, especially not redstone. Place a line of redstone from the left switch to the end of the left fork. The line of redstone should go all the way up to the last block, including the one you placed on top of the final block on the left side. Place a line of redstone from the right switch up to the second-to-last block. The line of redstone must go all the way up to the block that comes before the block that's touching the slab. The redstone line should essentially extend the length of the water channel. Place a TNT block on the slab. This will be your projectile. Place up to four TNT blocks in a line behind the slab. These TNT blocks can go all the way back to the second-to-last block of water, but the source water block must remain. Fire your cannon. When you're ready, flick the right switch, then immediately hit the left one. The front piece of TNT will drop onto the slab as the four TNT blocks move toward it; when the TNT blocks explode, the front one will be propelled forward. This TNT's height will vary depending on how quickly you hit the left switch. If you do very quickly, the TNT will fly straight. Delay it 2-3 seconds, and the TNT will fly much higher. If you wait too long, however, the first block of TNT will just fly upward and explode. Don't hit the left switch first, or your cannon might explode. | Open the Creative menu. Place the cannon's building materials in your inventory. Place a seven-block-long row of blocks. Place a block on the left side of the last block. Place another seven-block-long row of blocks. Place your last block on top of the front-left block. Place the slab at the mouth of the "U". Pour water into the back of the cannon. Place a switch on the back-left and back-right blocks. Place a line of redstone from the left switch to the end of the left fork. Place a line of redstone from the right switch up to the second-to-last block. Place a TNT block on the slab. Place up to four TNT blocks in a line behind the slab. Fire your cannon. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Buy-a-Website | How to Buy a Website | To buy a website, start by searching a website marketplace, such as flippa.com, to find sites that are for sale at a reasonable price. When you find a website, contact the seller to request information about site traffic, profits, and payment methods so you understand what's involved. Alternatively, request access to their Google Analytics to verify their information. If you decide to buy the site, consider paying through an escrow service, like escrow.com, for added security. | Figure out your buying strategy. Compare it to buying houses -- do you want to buy a dump for a pittance, spruce it up quickly, and unload it for a smaller but more immediate profit? Or, do you want to buy a nice house with good “bones” but flaws that you can transform into a great house to keep or sell at a larger but longer-term profit? It's your money, so consider your strategy carefully before you start buying. If you want to flip websites, you obviously need to buy “low” to have any chance of quickly making a profit. But it isn't just about seeking out the biggest bargain. That dirt-cheap fixer-upper house may become a condemned money pit before you can flip it if you don't do your homework first. If you're looking elsewhere than wikiHow for online advice on flipping websites, keep an eye out, because many advice sites are just sales pitches for an e-book or how-to seminar. Maybe that is something that interests you, but don't get roped in unwillingly. That said, some of these sales-pitch sites do make good points. For instance, one sensibly compares website buying to billionaire Warren Buffett's investment strategy -- buy established, good companies (websites) that are undervalued and that you can make better. It's not always the cheapest or fastest route, but often offers the best return. Figure out how you will improve a website you buy. Be realistic about the time and money you can spend to make a site better, your level of familiarity with website design and operation, and your knowledge of the product/service/information offered by a site. Are you buying with the intent of making money by generating more ad revenue? This is one of the most popular strategies, but make sure you understand Search Engine Optimization (SEO). There is a science (as well as an art) to directing traffic (and thus ad revenue) to a website. Consider buying a site with traffic targeted toward a product or service that you already produce or sell. Use it to complement what you already know and do. You may also have opportunities for streamlining or merging operations as well -- saving money is a way of making money too! Think about buying a site in an underutilized niche. Seek out sites with the potential to have a popular keyword niche for search engines, or sites with built-in communities of members/fans whose support is not being effectively monetized. Such sites offer customer/brand loyalty but have often been haphazardly assembled over time. If you have the skills to build a functional website that will more efficiently draw in traffic and revenue, this may be for you. Consider how much you want to pay. Websites are a buyer's market with millions of alternatives always available, so be clear on what you are willing and able to invest and do not overpay. Know the timeline you desire for your ROI (Return on Investment) -- that is, how long it will take you to earn back your purchase price. Basically, if you want your ROI within 1 year, don't pay more than 12 times the monthly net profit of the site (12x). Some advise that a 12x purchase (12 times monthly net profit) is a good deal, 18x is average, and 24x is risky when buying websites. Search for prospective sites to buy. Your main options are, in real estate buying terms, leafing through the “for sale” listings or utilizing a realtor. Do a keyword search for a business/product/service/field of interest and look deep into the results. Skim over the first couple pages of results, as these are likely to be stable, profitable, not-for-sale or too-expensive sites. Examine sites on later results pages and look for prospects that you think you could make more profitable. No, you don't know if the site is for sale yet, so you are basically a “cold call” buyer in this method. Search on a website marketplace. The most well-know is probably flippa.com , but there are many options. Such marketplaces list sites for sale by category, price, etc., and often provide analytics and support in the buying/selling process. As with any investment opportunity, take your time and try to sniff out a good deal. Do your homework on a prospective purchase. Once you've targeted one or more good-looking prospects, start digging deeper to determine the website's true viability as an investment. Contact the seller. Ask for the information you need to know to make an informed opinion, such as site traffic, profit per visitor, monthly profits, purchase/payment methods, trial period possibilities, the possibility for short-term site support post-purchase, etc. Do your own research as well. Trust but verify, as they say. Consider conducting a WHOIS search -- which provides ownership information for a domain name -- on one of many available search platforms. Ask the prospective seller to install Google Analytics on the site and let you access the data personally, so you can make your own assessment of the site's traffic, etc. Strongly consider utilizing escrow if you make an offer. An escrow service provides a secure platform for online transactions. Essentially, you will be paying a small percentage fee to have a middleman conduct the transaction between buyer and seller. Your funds are held in escrow until you inspect the website you intend to purchase to ensure that everything is in place and makes the money it claims. If the seller provides the option of escrow, go for it. If not, you may want to insist upon it, especially if you have any doubts about the trustworthiness of the seller. There are alternatives for escrow services for website transactions, but escrow.com is the most well-known. Take the website for a test drive. This is one major advantage of using an escrow service. They will hold your purchase funds in their own account, which you can release only after you are fully satisfied. Inspect the website before completing the purchase, even if you are not using an escrow service and need to negotiate your own terms. Ask the seller to verify its earnings. If you get a trial run offered by the seller, that's great. Get your hands on the account. Know it's working! Complete the purchase. Now that the site is yours, don't waste any time determining how to make it more profitable. But don't cast aside the seller quite yet, if possible. Ask the seller if he/she can provide support for a few months, even if you have to pay a small amount it's usually worth it. You can take over earnings more comfortably in this way. Some sellers do provide virtual assistance for a small monthly fee. In short, let the seller handle as much of the transition as you can. Focus your energies on making your new website a money-maker. | Figure out your buying strategy. Figure out how you will improve a website you buy. Consider how much you want to pay. Search for prospective sites to buy. Do your homework on a prospective purchase. Strongly consider utilizing escrow if you make an offer. Take the website for a test drive. Complete the purchase. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Read-a-Weather-Map | How to Read a Weather Map | To read a weather map, understand that a line with all triangles symbolizes a cold front, which will bring humidity and possibly rain. A line with all circles signifies a warm front and the dry, cool air that comes with it. In addition, a line with circles and triangles on the same side shows an occluded front, where a cold front overtakes a warm front to cause a variety of events, including thunderstorms. | Understand general concepts of precipitation. What most people are concerned with is precipitation, which, in meteorology (the study of weather), is any form of water that falls onto the Earth's surface. Forms of precipitation include rain, hail, snow, and sleet. Recognize what a high pressure system is. A major aspect of weather interpretation involves being able to understand the actions caused by differences in air pressure. High pressure implies dry weather. A high pressure system is an air mass that contains denser air because its air is cooler and/or dryer than the surrounding air. Thus, its heavier air falls downward and away from the pressure system's center, like water being poured onto the ground. With high pressure systems, the weather will tend to become clear or clearing. Understand what a low pressure system is. Low pressure is usually associated with humid air and in some cases, precipitation. A low pressure system is an air mass that has less dense air because its air is moister and/or warmer. Surrounding air draws inward toward the low system's center as the lighter air balloons upward, often causing clouds or precipitation because that moist air cools as it rises. You see this effect when air's invisible water vapor is forced to condense into droplets when it contacts the outside of a cold glass). But droplets won't form if the glass is only slightly cool...thus, rising low pressure air will only produce rain if it gets up where the air is cool enough to condense the water vapor into droplets too heavy to be kept aloft by the rising air. (Clouds are simply water droplets that are small enough to be kept aloft). With very low pressure systems, storms are on the way (if they aren't there already). Clouds begin to form and move across the sky -thunderhead clouds forming when moist air is thrust very high. Sometimes tornadoes form when very high pressure air collides with very warm, moist low pressure air. Study a weather map. Watch out for one on the TV news, online, or in your local newspaper. (Other sources may include magazines and books, but they may not be current.) Newspapers are a convenient method to find a weather map as they are cheap, reliable, and can be cut apart so you can carry them with you while learning to interpret the symbols. Analyze a small portion of your weather map. If possible, find a map covering a smaller area – these can be easier to interpret. Focusing on a larger scale may be difficult for a beginner. On the map, notice the location, lines, arrows, patterns, colors, and numbers. Every sign counts and all are different. Understand what air pressure measures. This is the weight or pressure the air exerts on the ground and is measured in millibars. It is important to be able to read air pressure because pressure systems are associated with certain weather patterns. The average air pressure system measures 1013 mb (29.92 inches of mercury). A typical strong high pressure system measures around 1030 mb (30.42 inches of mercury). A typical low pressure system measures around 1000 mb (29.54 inches of mercury. Learn the air pressure symbols. To read air pressure on a surface analysis weather map, check for isobars (iso = equal, bar = pressure) – plain, curved lines that indicate areas of equal air pressure. Isobars play a major role in determining the speed and direction of wind. When the isobars form concentric closed (but not always round) circles, the smallest circle in the center indicates a pressure center. This can be either a high-pressure system (depicted by an "H" in English , "A" in Spanish ) or a low pressure system (depicted by an "L" in English, "B" in Spanish). Air does not flow "down" pressure gradients; it flows "around" them due to the Coriolis effect (Earth spinning). Hence, wind direction is indicated by the isobars, counterclockwise around lows (cyclonic flow) and clockwise around highs (anticyclonic) in the northern hemisphere, thus creating wind. The closer the isobars are to one another, the stronger the winds. Learn how to interpret a Low Pressure System (Cyclone). These storms are characterized by increased cloudiness, winds, temperatures, and chance of precipitation. They are represented on a weather map by isobars that are close together with arrows traveling clockwise (Southern Hemisphere) or counter-clockwise (Northern Hemisphere), usually with a "T" in the middle isobar, which forms a round circle (the letter can vary, however, depending on the language the weather report is presented in). Radar imagery can show low-pressure systems. Tropical cyclones (South Pacific) are also named hurricanes around America or typhoons in coastal Asia. Learn how to interpret a High Pressure System. These conditions indicate clear, calm weather with reduced chance of precipitation. Drier air usually results in a greater range of high and low temperatures. They are represented on a weather map as isobars with an "H" in the middle isobar and arrows showing which direction the wind is flowing (clockwise in Northern Hemisphere, counterclockwise in the Southern Hemisphere). Like cyclones, they can also be shown with radar imagery. Observe the types and movement of fronts. These mark the boundary between warmer air on one side and colder air on the other. If you are close to a front and you know the front is moving towards you, you can expect a change in weather (e.g. cloud formation, precipitation, thunderstorms, and wind) when the front boundary passes over you. Mountains and large bodies of water can distort its path. On a weather map, you will notice some lines that have semi-circles or triangles on either side, or both. These indicate the boundaries for various types of fronts. Analyze a Cold front. With these weather patterns, rainfall can be torrential and wind speeds can be high. Blue lines with triangles on one side represents cold fronts on weather maps. The direction the triangles point is the direction in which the cold front is moving. Analyze a Warm front. These often bring a gradual increase in rainfall as the front approaches, followed by prompt clearing and warming after the front passes. If the warm air mass is unstable, the weather might be characterized by prolonged thunderstorms. A red line with semi-circles on one side represents warm fronts. The side the semi-circles are on represent the direction in which the warm front is heading. Study an Occluded front. These are formed when a cold front overtakes a warm front. They are associated with various weather events (possibly thunderstorms) depending on whether it is a warm or cold occlusion. The passing of an occluded front usually brings drier air (lowered dew point). A purple line with semi-circles and triangles both on the same side represents occluded fronts. Whichever side they're on is the direction the occluded front is going. Analyze a Stationary front. These indicate a non-moving boundary between two different air masses. These fronts have long continuous rainy periods that linger for extended periods in one area and move in waves. A semi-circle bordering one side and triangles along the opposite side represents that the front is not moving in any direction. Read the station models at each point of observation. If your weather map has station models, each one will plot the temperature, dew-point, wind, sea level pressure, pressure tendency, and ongoing weather with a series of symbols. Temperature is generally recorded in Celsius degrees and rainfall is recorded in millimeters. In the US, temperatures are in Fahrenheit and rainfall is measured in inches. Cloud cover is indicated by the circle in the middle; the extent to which it is filled indicates the degree to which the sky is overcast. Study the lines on the weather map. There are many other lines on weather maps. Two of the most important kinds of lines indicate isotherms and isotachs. Isotherms – These are lines on a weather map that connect points through which the isotherm passes have the same temperature. Isotachs – These are lines on a weather map that connect points where the isotach passes have the same wind speed. Analyze the pressure gradient. A number on the isobars, such as "1008", is the pressure (in millibars) along that line. The distance between isobars is referred to as the pressure gradient. A large change in pressure over a short distance (i.e. close isobars) indicates strong winds. Analyze wind strength. Wind barbs point in the direction of the wind. Lines or triangles coming off the main line at an angle indicate wind strength: 50 knots for every triangle, 10 knots for every full line, 5 knots for every half line. | Understand general concepts of precipitation. Recognize what a high pressure system is. Understand what a low pressure system is. Study a weather map. Analyze a small portion of your weather map. Understand what air pressure measures. Learn the air pressure symbols. Learn how to interpret a Low Pressure System (Cyclone). Learn how to interpret a High Pressure System. Observe the types and movement of fronts. Analyze a Cold front. Analyze a Warm front. Study an Occluded front. Analyze a Stationary front. Read the station models at each point of observation. Study the lines on the weather map. Analyze the pressure gradient. Analyze wind strength. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-Cantonese | How to Learn Cantonese | To learn Cantonese, start by picking up basic vocabulary you'll need in daily conversation, like "Neih hou" which means "Hello" and "Neih hou ma" for "How are you?" Then, find an online Cantonese course with recordings so you can practice, such as Duolingo. You could also search online for Chinese schools in your local area and sign up for a language class. Alternatively, if you're serious about learning quickly, travel to Hong Kong or Macao and take an immersion course, where you'll speak Cantonese all the time. | Learn the tones. Cantonese has up to 9 tones, but most speakers use six. Tones are used to distinguish various meanings of a syllable. The tones can be level, rising, or falling in pitch. You don't need perfect pitch to speak Cantonese, but you do need to be able to control your pitch enough to make it rise, fall, or hold steady. The high level tone is transcribed as "ā" in Yale. It is a high, steady pitch. The mid rising tone is "á" in Yale. It starts at your normal pitch and ends higher. The mid level tone does not rise or fall, but continues at your normal pitch. The low falling tone, "àh," starts slightly below your ordinary pitch and ends lower. The low rising tone, "áh," starts slightly below your ordinary pitch and ends at your ordinary pitch. The low level tone, "ah," begins and ends in your ordinary pitch without changing. You will need to take classes or listen to recordings to learn how to properly vocalize and recognize the tones. Count. A great way to practice Cantonese tones and sounds is to learn to count to ten. When you count, lilt the numbers up and down, beginning up with one, then down with two, then up with three. 1 一 yāt (rhymes with "putt") 2 二 yih (rhymes with "see") 3 三 sāam (said with an "ah" sound; use a lower pitch or you may end up saying "clothes") 4 四 sei (like "say") 5 五 ńgh (like "mmm" but with the letter n) 6 六 luhk (like "look") 7 七 chāt (said with "uh" sound) 8 八 baat (like "bot") 9 九 gáu (rhymes with "how") 10 十 sahp (like "sup" with a slight "ah" sound) Once you have learned to count to 10, learn double digit numbers. To say 11, 12, 13, and up, say "sahp" (ten) and then the second digit. 11 is "sahpyāt," (ten-one), while 12 is "sahpyih." Learn key vocabulary. Find and practice the words and phrases you need to build your most ordinary phrases. It is wise to cluster your vocabulary: learn related words together, instead of randomly or in alphabetical order. Study along with a guide that provides recordings, such as learningchineseez.com Learn how to say temporal markers: now (而家 yīgā), late (遲 chìh), early (早 jóu), morning (朝早 jīujóu), afternoon (晏晝 ngaanjau), and evening (夜晚 yeh máahn.) Learn basic greetings, such as Hello (你好. Néih hóu), How are you? (你好嗎? Néih hóu ma?) and the less formal How are you recently? (近排點呀? Gahnpàaih dím a?), and the answers: Fine (好. Hóu) Practice your formal goodbye (再見 Joigin), and your informal goodbye (拜拜 Bāaibaai, as in "bye-bye"). Learn to ask basic questions, such as What is your name? (你叫乜嘢名呀? Néih giu māt'yéh mèhng a?) or the more formal "How do I address you?" (請問點稱呼? Chíngmahn dím chīngfū?) Memorize the answers. My name is (我個名叫, Ngóh go méng giu), and Nice to meet you (幸會. Hahng'wúih). Learn to say Please (請. Chíng), to thank someone for helping you (唔該. M̀h'gōi), and to thank someone for a gift (多謝 Dōjeh). To say You're welcome, say "唔使客氣. M̀h'sái haak-hei." To get attention, say Excuse me (唔好意思. M̀h'hóu yisi) and to get past someone say Excuse me like this (唔該. M̀h'gōi or 唔該借借 M̀h'gōi jeje). Note that the first "Excuse me" is the same as a form of "Thank you". It all depends on the context. To apologize say Sorry (對唔住. Deui-m̀h-jyuh. If you're apologizing in Hong Kong, just say Sorry in English. Ask and answer yes-no questions. In Chinese, you ask yes-no questions by stating both the positive and negative form of a verb, then adding an "ah" to the end of the sentence. For instance, if you are asking "are you John?" you would say "nay hie-hm-hie John ah," literally "you are-not-are John?" The "ah" is usually at the end of questions or some statements. To answer, you would not say "yes" or "no," as there are not standard words for these in Cantonese. Instead, you would repeat the negative or positive form of the verb. If you are indeed John, you would say "hie" (am). If you are not, say "hm hie" (am not). Note that the question itself uses includes both forms (Are you not or are you?). This is how questions are usually formatted. Sign up for classes at a Chinese school. Search your phone directory or look online for Cantonese language schools in your area. Other than Spanish, Chinese is the most common non-English language in the United States. It can be easier to find Standard Chinese lessons, but Cantonese schools and Cantonese classes at Language schools are still common. Chinese classes at Chinese language schools are often designed for children. Look for classes for adults, or consider taking classes at a community college or community center. Get a tutor. Meeting for one on one practice with a tutor will help you learn conversational skills and manners as well as vocabulary and grammar. Contact a tutoring service or a language school to find a Cantonese speaker. Many speakers of Cantonese come to the United States for college. Try contacting the language department of local universities to see if they know any foreign exchange students who are interested in tutoring you. Take lessons online. There are many MOOCs and distance-learning courses available for students of Cantonese. You can take free classes at your own pace, or you can sign up for a class. If you pay, make sure your class gives you access to quality media and at least one teacher who can answer your questions over email, Skype, or chat. Take lessons abroad. Sign up for an immersive language program abroad. Find a highly-rated program that will have you speaking only Cantonese for the entirety of your visit. Alternatively, arrange for a visit in Hong Kong or Macau and take classes part-time while immersing yourself in the culture in your free time. If you go abroad to study Cantonese, be sure to vet your options thoroughly. There are many institutes advertising classes, but the quality is highly variable. Check the credentials of the staff before committing to a class. Teachers with degrees in Chinese or in Education are your best bet. Consider taking a class at the Chinese University of Hong Kong, or a class at The University of Hong Kong through the Chinese Department. Cheaper classes can be found at Hong Kong's YMCAs, but check the ratings before you sign up. To find classes of good repute, visit websites like goabroad.com and search for Cantonese schools. Classes in Hong Kong might be more expensive (you might pay about 400 for a week of classes), while classes in a less expensive place, like Guangdong, might be cheaper but more difficult to locate and verify. Consider accent before you choose a teacher or city. If you plan to do business in Hong Kong, but would like to save money by studying in Guangdong, you will likely pick up an accent that will not serve your ambitions. Expand your vocabulary. Keep a notebook of words you would like to learn in Cantonese. When you hear a word you don't know, or when you realize you don't know how to say something, write it down and look it up later. Build yourself vocabulary lists based on themes (weather, time, food, family, business, vacation) and break them into vocabulary flashcards to study. Memorization is a huge part of learning any Chinese language. Bring flashcards with you so you can study while you wait in line, while you eat, and while you're riding on public transportation. Choose how to approach reading and writing. There are two standard forms of written Cantonese: formal and informal. The informal version is close to spoken Cantonese, while the formal version is very similar to Standard Chinese (Mandarin). Many Cantonese speakers learn to read and write in Standard Chinese with Cantonese pronunciation. Written Cantonese is unusual outside of Hong Kong. Colloquial Cantonese in Hong Kong includes standard Chinese characters plus over a thousand Cantonese characters. There are several forms of Romanization for phonemic written Cantonese, including Cantonese Pinyin, Jyutping, and Yale. For Standard Chinese Romanization, learn Pinyin. Depending on your language interests, you may choose to study formal or informal Cantonese pinyin and characters, Standard Chinese pinyin and characters, or select words and characters of any of these options for travel purposes. Watch movies and television. Thanks to online streaming video services, it's easy to find Cantonese films and television shows. Try watching movies, and get hooked on a quality show like "The Insider's Guide to Happiness." Watch with the subtitles on, and pause to look up words or check plot summaries to make sure you are absorbing as much as possible. Rewatch episodes and pay attention to moments you felt you didn't understand. Watch out for subtitles. If you are practicing your Chinese by watching English-language films with Chinese subtitles, you are likely to come across mostly Standard Chinese. However, some shows, such as The Simpsons, are subtitled in written Cantonese. Read books, newspapers, and comic books. It is more challenging to access written Cantonese than it is to find written Standard Chinese. If you are learning Standard Chinese with a Cantonese accent, you will have a wider variety of literature and media available to you. However, there are options for the Cantonese reader. To determine whether or not a text is in Cantonese, check for common words that are not used in Mandarin, such as 佢 or 姖 (he/she). But the writing system is pretty much the same, so you don't have to learn two written languages! Visit a Chinese church or temple. Speakers of Cantonese observe many different religious and spiritual practices. Look up local Buddhist temples and Christian churches to find services in Cantonese. Make sure to look up the etiquette of the place you are going before you visit—you don't want to offend anyone, especially if you are planning on returning! If you have any friends who speak Cantonese or who attend a Chinese religious center, ask for tips, or ask to be brought along. | Learn the tones. Count. Learn key vocabulary. Ask and answer yes-no questions. Sign up for classes at a Chinese school. Get a tutor. Take lessons online. Take lessons abroad. Expand your vocabulary. Choose how to approach reading and writing. Watch movies and television. Read books, newspapers, and comic books. Visit a Chinese church or temple. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Lemon-Honey-Water | How to Make Lemon Honey Water | To make lemon honey water, you'll need 1 lemon, 1 cup of water, and 2 teaspoons of honey. Start by cutting the lemon in half and squeezing the juice out. Pour 1 cup of water into a small pot and bring it to the boil. If you don't want your lemon honey water hot, just use lukewarm tap water. Then, mix in your lemon juice and 2 teaspoons of honey. Stir it well to make sure the honey dissolves fully. Let the mixture cool for a few minutes, then serve and enjoy. | Juice the lemon. For the lemon honey water, you'll need 1 medium lemon. Slice it in a half with a knife, and use a juicer to extract 2 teaspoons (10 ml) of juice. It's best to use an organic lemon for the water. Bring the water to a boil. Pour 1 cup (237 ml) of water into a small sauce pan. Heat the water on high until it comes to a boil, which should take approximately 5 minutes. You can also heat the water in a microwave if you prefer. If you don't want to boil the water, you can use lukewarm water from the tap instead. For the best tasting drink, though, use filtered water. Keep in mind that you may need to stir the mixture a little longer when you add the honey to help it dissolve. Mix the honey and lemon juice into the hot water until the honey dissolves. Take the pot off the heat once the water is boiling, and add the lemon juice and 2 teaspoons (14 g) of honey. Stir the mixture well to ensure that the honey dissolves completely. Pour into a mug and enjoy. Once the honey has dissolved, carefully transfer the water to a mug or teacup. Before taking a sip, it's a good idea to test the water temperature by dipping a spoon in it. If the metal doesn't get too hot, the water is ready to drink. Otherwise, let it sit for a few minutes to cool. Place some of the lemon slices in a jar. To make the lemon honey water mix, you'll need a 16 ounce (473 ml) jar with a lid and 2 lemons that have been thinly sliced. Set some of the slices in a layer at the bottom of the jar. You can add some fresh ginger that's been sliced to the lemon layers if you like. Cover the lemon with honey. Once the lemon layer is in place, drizzle about 2 tablespoons (43 g) of honey over the slices. Make sure to cover as much of the lemons as you can. If possible, use raw, local honey, which typically offers more antibacterial, antiviral, and antifungal properties. Repeat the process until you’ve used up all of the ingredients and close the jar. Continue adding lemon and honey layers to fill the jar completely. Place the lid on the jar, and secure it tightly. Chill the jar in the fridge for at least 12 hours. Placing the mixture in the refrigerator allows the flavors to really meld. The lemon's juices and acids will infuse the honey to get maximum flavor when you stir the mixture into water. Add some of the mix to warm water and enjoy. Once the lemon and honey has chilled properly, remove the jar's lid and scoop out 1 to 2 teaspoons (7 to 14 g) of the honey. Mix it into a mug with about 8 ounces (237 ml) of warm or boiling water depending on your preference, and drink it right away. You can store the remaining lemon honey mixture in your fridge for up to 2 months, so you can enjoy lemon honey water when you're in the mood. Place the lemon and ginger slices in a mug. For the water, you'll need 1 sliced lemon and a 1-inch (2.5-cm) of piece of fresh ginger that's been peeled and thinly sliced. Add the slices to the bottom of your favorite mug. You can add as much of the lemon and ginger to the mug as you'd like. Add the boiling water. When the lemon and ginger slices are in the mug, pour in 8 ounces (237 ml) of boiling water. Stir briefly to blend all of the ingredients. You can boil the water on your stovetop or in the microwave. Mix in the honey and enjoy. Add 1 teaspoon (7 g) of raw or local honey to the mixture, and stir well to ensure that it dissolves. You can let the mixture steep for a moment to ensure that the flavors are blended, but drink the water while it's still warm. | Juice the lemon. Bring the water to a boil. Mix the honey and lemon juice into the hot water until the honey dissolves. Pour into a mug and enjoy. Place some of the lemon slices in a jar. Cover the lemon with honey. Repeat the process until you’ve used up all of the ingredients and close the jar. Chill the jar in the fridge for at least 12 hours. Add some of the mix to warm water and enjoy. Place the lemon and ginger slices in a mug. Add the boiling water. Mix in the honey and enjoy. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Transfer-Pet-Ownership | How to Transfer Pet Ownership | Giving your pet away can be emotional, but properly transferring its documents will ensure the new owner knows how to care for it. To transfer a pet to someone else, you'll need to sign a transfer of pet ownership agreement and transfer your pet license and microchip registration. You can find templates for transfer of pet ownership agreements online. Make sure to include details about your pet including its breed, health history, and care instructions. Once you've signed the transfer, you'll need to fill out a pet license transfer form, which can be found at most animal shelters. If your pet is microchipped, visit the provider who microchipped your animal to transfer the registration over. | Discuss pet care with the new owner. As much as your pet is your friend and companion, they are treated as property under the law. You don't need to make any special agreements with the new owner regarding care and treatment, but you can if you want. For example, you may want your pet to continue going to the same vet. If the new owner lives in the same town as you, they may agree to do this. If your pet is currently taking any medications, discuss this continued treatment with the new owner. Make sure they understand the dosing schedule. Search the internet for templates and samples. Many nonprofit pet adoption services have sample transfer of ownership agreements that you can use for your own purposes. Just remember to adapt the agreement to suit your needs. Don't copy clauses verbatim if you don't understand them or they don't apply to your situation. For example, if you and your new owner live in North Carolina, you wouldn't want to copy an agreement clause that stated the agreement was governed by the laws in the state of California. Pet attorneys and legal document websites also have sample transfer of ownership agreements you can use. Some of them will charge a fee for you to access or create these documents. Include information about yourself and the new owner. List the full legal names of both yourself and the new owner, and state that you are transferring full and complete ownership of the pet from yourself to the new owner. State the address of the primary residence of both you and the new owner. You may also want to include additional contact information, such as phone numbers or email addresses. Provide details about the pet. The transfer of ownership agreement should include a description of your pet, including the animal, breed (if appropriate), and coloration. You may also include your pet's name if you want. Many transfer of ownership agreements also include medical information about the pet, such as a record of veterinary checkups and vaccinations. You may also want to disclose if your pet has any diagnosed medical conditions, such as a heart murmur or hip dysplasia. Include license or tag numbers and any registration or microchip numbers associated with your pet. Add a disclaimer that these numbers will be transferred to the new owner. Typically this is your responsibility as the old owner of the pet. Add proper disclaimers and choice of law. Once you and the new owner sign the agreement, it will be a legally binding document. Like any legal contract, your agreement should include standard provisions stating that the document represents the entire agreement between you and the new owner. If both you and the new owner live in the same state, you can simply provide that the agreement will be governed by the laws of the state in which you both live. If you live in different states, discuss the issue with the new owner. You also want to state where and how the agreement can be enforced. You can elect to go to court to enforce the agreement if necessary, or you can provide for mediation or arbitration. While it's unlikely you'll have to do this, the point of a written contract is to make sure all bases are covered. Sign the agreement. Once the agreement is drafted, it should be signed by both you and the new owner. Make and sign two copies so that both you and the new owner have an original with original signatures. In most states it isn't necessary to sign your agreement in front of a notary. However, you may want to do so to prevent disputes later on. For example, the new owner could claim they never signed the document. A notarized signature would prove they had. Fill out a license transfer form. Pet licenses are issued by the city or county where you live. You can pick up a transfer form at animal shelters, or from many veterinarians. You may also be able to download a copy of the form online. The form requires information about you and the new owner, as well as basic information about the pet. You will have to include the pet's license number, and typically a brief description of the animal. Sign the form in the presence of a notary if required. The license transfer form typically must be signed by both you and the new owner. Some cities or counties will require you to sign in front of a notary. Look on the form to see if there is a block for a notary signature and seal. Once you've signed the form, make two copies so both you and the new owner will have a copy for your personal files. You'll have to turn in the original to the city or county animal control authority. Submit your form in person if necessary. Some cities or counties require you to bring your form in person to an animal shelter or animal control office. Typically both the old owner and the new owner are required to be present. There typically isn't a fee to simply transfer the license to a new owner. However, if the new owner wants to have a new license number issued, or wants new tags printed, they may have to pay a fee. Find out where your pet's microchip is registered. If your pet is microchipped, that microchip is registered with a particular registration service. Some city and county governments have their own agreements with these services, so they'll transfer microchip registration along with the pet's license. Typically, though, you'll have to do this separately. If you're not sure which service registers your pet's microchip, you can find out by looking up the microchip number at http://www.petmicrochiplookup.org/. Follow the microchip registration service's instructions. Each registration service has its own process for changing ownership of the microchip registration. Some require payment of a fee, while others do not. In most cases, it takes 2 to 3 weeks for the transfer of microchip registration to take effect. Locate the pet's registration certificate. If you have a pedigreed cat or dog, you'll have a registration certificate issued by the pedigree association. For cats, this may be a "blue slip" from the Cat Fanciers' Association (CFA). Pedigreed dogs in the United States are registered with the American Kennel Club (AKC). Fill in the transfer information on the back of the certificate. Registration certificates are organized similar to car titles. There are boxes on the back of the certificate that you can use to transfer registration of your pet from yourself to a new owner. Make sure you provide a complete mailing address for the new owner. This is the address the pedigree association will use to mail the new owner a new certificate. Dogs may require a supplemental transfer form. This is usually the case if the dog has had more than 2 registered owners. Sign the certificate as the old owner. The new owner may not have to sign the registration certificate for the transfer. However, you must sign it as the old owner. After signing it, make a copy for your own records. The procedure for dogs is slightly different. There is another section of transfer information that must be completed and signed by the new owner. The new owner then sends the certificate to the AKC. Mail the certificate to the pedigree association. Beneath the boxes for transfer information on the back of the certificate, you'll find the address where you need to send the certificate. The pedigree association will send a new certificate to the new owner. Include a check or money order for the transfer fees. These fees are typically around $20 or $30. Check the website of the pedigree association to find up-to-date fee information. | Discuss pet care with the new owner. Search the internet for templates and samples. Include information about yourself and the new owner. Provide details about the pet. Add proper disclaimers and choice of law. Sign the agreement. Fill out a license transfer form. Sign the form in the presence of a notary if required. Submit your form in person if necessary. Find out where your pet's microchip is registered. Follow the microchip registration service's instructions. Locate the pet's registration certificate. Fill in the transfer information on the back of the certificate. Sign the certificate as the old owner. Mail the certificate to the pedigree association. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Introduce-Solid-Food-to-Kittens | How to Introduce Solid Food to Kittens | To introduce solid food to your kitten, start by putting a tablespoon of soft, wet, room-temperature food into a small, low dish. Alternatively, put some food on the tip of your finger, which your kitten may be more likely to approach. Then, let the kitten eat as much as it wants. In the beginning, you'll need to feed your kitten 4 to 5 times a day. Once they're 10 weeks old, gradually reduce the number of feedings until you're feeding them just twice a day. | Do not begin weaning too early. Kittens need their mother's nutrient-heavy milk to gain sufficient weight in the first two or three weeks of life. Forcing the kittens to wean early will be physically harmful to them, and will also upset the mother cat. The kitten's eyes will be open and it will be steady on its feet before weaning naturally begins. If the kitten's eyes are still shut and the animal is not yet steady on its feet, it's still too early to begin weaning the kitten. Let the mother cat begin the weaning process. The kittens will be weaned naturally: starting when the kittens are around 3 or 4 weeks, the mother will begin pushing them away when they nuzzle her to nurse. At this point, the kittens will begin to look for other sources of food, and you can start to present them with solid food. Were the kittens living in the wild, at this point in their development (3 or 4 weeks) they would begin eating birds, squirrels, and other animals that their mother killed for them. Allow the kittens to continue nursing intermittently. Weaning is not a sudden, abrupt process. Although kittens will begin being weaned in week 3 or 4, they will continue to need diminishing amounts of their mother's milk for the next 4 weeks. During weeks 5, 6, and 7, kittens will become more assertive with their mother and will initiate nursing on their own, rather than waiting for their mother to initiate nursing. It's also important that the kittens gain independence from their mother as the weaning process goes on. This will encourage them to look for food sources other than their mother's milk. Between weeks 3 and 8, give the kittens a safe space to wander around in your house or apartment – while supervised – to fulfill their natural curiosity. Begin with a milk substitute. If you're concerned that kittens will not readily take to eating solid food, you can provide a milk substitute as an intermediary step – one designed for kittens that will give them the nourishment they need. Mix the milk substitute into canned kitten food, since it can upset their stomachs alone. You should serve the milk substitute around the times when the kittens usually nurse from their mother. So, if the kittens typically nurse every two hours, you should set out a fresh bowl of mixed food and substitute at the same interval. You can find a milk substitute at most pet stores, and it may even be for sale at your local supermarket. If you prefer to order online, you can order a milk substitute (sometimes called a “kitten milk replacement”) from stores like PetCo and PetSmart. Do not give kittens cow's milk. Cow's milk is not very nourishing to the kittens, and can give them upset stomachs and diarrhea. Serve the kittens a kitten-specific wet food. Many cat food brands manufacture a kitten-specific wet food that will provide the specific forms of nutrition needed by kittens between 3 and 10 weeks old. The food packaging itself should include instructions for when to switch the kittens over to a food for full-grown, adult cats. Kitten-specific wet food should be included in the “Pet Food” section at any local grocery store. If you'd like a wider variety or are searching for a specific brand of food, you can look at a local pet-supply store. If this is your first time introducing kittens to solid food, ask your veterinarian for nutritional advice and what wet food for kittens they recommend. Dampen small kibble before serving it to the kittens. It often works well to transition kittens from soft, wet food to kibble. You can feed kittens wet food starting in week 3 or 4; by week 5 or 6, you can begin to introduce some dampened kibble. When you decide to start serving kibble to the kittens, you should first dampen the kibble with a small amount of water or milk substitute. This will make the kibble easier to chew and swallow for kittens not used to hard food. Even if you're introducing kittens to hard kibble before introducing them to soft, wet food, it's still important to serve them kibble that has been designed specifically for kittens. Place wet food in a low saucer or dish. To begin feeding solid food to the kittens, you can scoop some soft, wet food (or milk substitute) into a small dish. Make sure to use a low dish so that the small kittens can easily access the food. This food should be served at roughly room temperature, although you can refrigerate leftover wet food. Do not serve the food to the kittens hot, as it could burn them. To encourage independence, set this dish away from the mother. Place the food dish (and a water dish) away from the kittens' litter box, too, since cats don't like to eat near their litter. Begin by serving a single tablespoon of food. Although the kittens will soon develop larger appetites as they stop consuming their mother's milk and begin to grow rapidly, at first they will eat relatively little. Scoop only a tablespoon of wet food (per kitten) into the dish; the kittens are too small to eat much more than this. By serving only a small amount of food, you'll save yourself from having to throw substantial amounts of cat food away after every feeding. The kittens will also likely step in the food in the saucer, so be prepared to throw this food out also. Feed the kittens multiple times throughout the day. Unlike grown cats, kittens need to eat many times throughout the day, as they'll be used to frequently nursing from their mother. Since kittens will eat solid food periodically during the day, you need to serve food multiple times. Plan to give the kittens wet food 4 or 5 times each day: for example, set out a tablespoon of food per kitten at 8 am, 11 am, 3 pm, 6 pm, and 9 pm. As kittens grow older and pass 10 weeks of age, you can begin to reduce the feeding times gradually: drop down to 4, then 3. When the kittens are between 4 to 6 months old, you can try only feeding them once in the morning and once in the evening. Offer the kittens a little solid food on the tip of your finger. If the kittens are hesitant to approach the wet food, or are uncertain of how to interact with the new substance, pick up a little on the tip of your finger (or on the top of a clean spoon) and offer it to the kittens. Once they have a chance to smell the food, the kittens will begin to eat. Don't be surprised if they initially only eat small amounts of the wet food. When offering wet food, be careful not to force it into the kittens' faces. This could give them a fear of food, and could also accidentally be inhaled. Just hold your finger (with food on it) 2–3 inches from the kitten's nose and let the cat come closer. Introduce food to each kitten individually. Due to personality differences, some kittens will naturally be more inquisitive, and others more shy. To make sure that all of the kittens are successfully weaned, you can introduce solid food to each one individually. You can do this by picking up the kittens one at a time and taking them each over to a small dish with food in it, or by extending your finger with a small amount of food to each kitten individually. If some kittens are especially shy around the food, try gently holding their mouths open and swipe a tiny morsel off food on their tongue. This will let them taste the food and hopefully encourage them to try more. | Do not begin weaning too early. Let the mother cat begin the weaning process. Allow the kittens to continue nursing intermittently. Begin with a milk substitute. Serve the kittens a kitten-specific wet food. Dampen small kibble before serving it to the kittens. Place wet food in a low saucer or dish. Begin by serving a single tablespoon of food. Feed the kittens multiple times throughout the day. Offer the kittens a little solid food on the tip of your finger. Introduce food to each kitten individually. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Quillow | How to Make a Quillow | To make a quillow, start by trimming your fabric to the desired size and laying the fabric down, one piece on top of the other, with the right sides touching each other. Next, lay the batting on top of the two pieces of fabric, pin all three layers, and stitch them together, leaving a 12 inch opening. Then, flip the fabric right-side out and create the pillow pocket. Finally, sew the pillow pocket to the blanket using a 1⁄4 inch seam. | Select your fabric. The blanket is made by sewing together two pieces of fabric. You can choose matching fabric for both sides, or you can mix patterns and types of fabric for the bottom and top. Consider how you plan to use your quillow and who it is for. A baseball fan might like a pattern with bats and mitts or the logo of his favorite team; a dog lover might appreciate a pattern of little paw prints. Use your creativity! For a blanket that will cover an adult, you will need 2 pieces of fabric that is 2 yards (1.8 m) long and 60 inches (150 cm) in width, plus an additional ⁄ 2 yard (0.5 m) for the pillow. For a baby blanket, buy two 1 ⁄ 2 yards (1.4 m) of fabric. Trim these later to crib size (usually 36 inches b 44 inches) and use the remaining fabric for the pillow. Fleece, flannel, or cotton fabric are good choices to make warm, cozy blankets. You may also find soft, plush fabrics perfect for baby. If you plan to use your quillow for picnics, consider making one side of the blanket water-proof with either water-proof fabric or a heavy vinyl shower curtain. This will help keep your blanket dry in wet grass and make it easier to clean off dirt and sand. Select your batting. This is the insulation or padding you layer between your top and bottom pieces of fabric. Look for a high-quality batting that won't separate and isn't too thick, or you may have trouble folding your quilt into the pocket. Get the same size batting as your fabric (or bigger--you will trim it down). Cotton batting is a popular choice because it is breathable and ages well, plus it's machine washable. If you're looking for cotton batting with a little more "poof," look for one with scrim or a cotton/polyester blend. Wool batting is durable and is a great choice for a blanket you want to be extra-warm. It is a little more expensive than other batting, and you must be very careful when washing, or it will clump up inside your blanket. Polyester batting is inexpensive and will retain it's shape, making it ideal for a baby blanket, since it will be washed regularly. It's a little more more "poofy" than wool or cotton, so don't get one that is too thick. Buy thread that matches your pattern. Unless you're looking for contrast, you want your stitches to blend in with the colors of the blanket. Trim your fabric to the desired size. If the dimensions of your fabric aren't already the size you'd like, lay the fabric flat and use a yard stick and rotary cutter to cut through the fabric. Place a self-healing matt under the fabric before you cut. This will make it easier to slice through and won't damage the table or floor underneath. If you aren't sure about the dimensions of the pillow pocket, find the measurement for 1/4 of the length of the main blanket, then add 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) to that number. Then find 1/3 of the width of the main blanket, and add 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) to that number. Remember you will lose roughly between 1/8-1/4 of an inch when you sew the quilt together, depending on the seam. Lay the fabric down, one piece on top of the other, with the right sides touching each other. The "right" side refers to the side of the fabric that will be exposed, or the side with the pattern on it. Lay the batting on top of the two pieces of fabric, then pin the edges of the three layers together. Trim the batting to the exact size of the fabric, if it is not already the same size. Leave a 12 inch (30.5 cm) opening somewhere along the edge. Stitch the three layers together with a 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) seam, taking care to not sew the 12 inch (30.5 cm) opening closed. Remove the pins. If you have trouble sewing a straight line, mark the ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm) seam with a colored pencil or "invisible" marking pen that rinses out with a little water. You may choose to zig-zag stitch the raw edges as well if you think the blanket will be frequently laundered or get a lot of rough use. Use sharp scissors to trim off the four corners with a diagonal cut. Don't clip your stitches! Press the edges with a hot iron to lock the stitches and increase the durability of your blanket. Turn the blanket right-side out through the 12 inch (30.5 cm) opening. Reach in through the opening and use a pencil to push out your corners. Smooth out the quilt and iron to the edges. Pressing your quilt will ensure a neat, polished look when you are finished. Fold in the raw edges of the 12 inch (30.5 cm) opening so it is even with the rest of the blanket and press it with the iron. Pin it closed, with the excess fabric (or raw edge) tucked into the opening. Sew a 1/4 inch seam around all four edges of the quilt, closing the 12 inch (30.5 cm) opening. This final seam secures the edges of the quilt so it will last longer. It also gives the blanket a neat, professional look. This 1/4 seam should be between the edge of the blanket and the ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm) seam you already sewed. You can skip the final seam and just sew the opening shut with a ⁄ 8 inch (0.3 cm) seam, but the blanket won't be quite as durable and the edges may not look quite as clean. Fold the 1⁄2 yard (0.5 m) fabric in half, right sides facing each other, and stitch the long edges of the rectangle together with a 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) seam. Make sure the edges are lined up and pinned before you begin stitching. You are making a mini-version of the main blanket, only without the batting. One side of the rectangle should still be open so you can flip the fabric right-side out. Snip off the corners with scissors. This gives your pocket nice, sharp edges. Turn the blanket right-side out through the open side of the pillow pocket. Again, reach into the opening and use a pencil to push out the corners. Press the fabric with a warm iron, locking the stitches and smoothing out any wrinkles. Fold the open side of the rectangle so its is even with the edge of the rest of the pillow pocket. Use the iron to crease the fold and pin the opening closed. Sew a 1/4 inch seam to close the open edge only; do not stitch the way around the pocket. You will be sewing these edges later, when you attach them to the large blanket. Lay the larger, main blanket on a flat surface and lay the pillow pocket at the top center of the blanket. The edge of the pocket you already stitched with a ⁄ 4 inch (0.6 cm) seam should be lined up with the edge of the large blanket. Pin the pocket in place. The top of the blanket is one of the shorter sides of the rectangular blanket (the width). If you made a square blanket, the top is whichever side you choose. Measure the blanket on either side of the pillow pocket, making sure it is in the exact center on the edge of the blanket (not the exact middle of the entire blanket). You can sew the pocket on the front or back of the main blanket. It will be concealed if you sew it on the side that is on the ground. If the pillow pocket is on the front of the blanket, you can use it as a storage pocket while the blanket is in use. Sew the three outer edges of the pillow pocket to the blanket using a 1⁄4 inch (0.6 cm) seam. Do not sew the edge of the pillow pocket that is lined up with the edge of the blanket, or you will have no pocket in which to tuck your blanket! Lay the blanket on the ground, pocket side down. The pocket is at the "top" of the blanket. Fold the outer edges of the blanket to the opposite edges of the pocket. You are folding the blanket into thirds, lengthwise. The blanket should be longer than it is wide, and be the width of the pillow pocket. If you were to flip the blanket over now, the pillow pocket would be fully visible, with the open edge at the top. Fold the blanket up from the bottom, once again into thirds. The blanket should now be folded to the dimensions of the pillow pocket. Flip pocket over the blanket. To do this, reach one hand into the pillow pocket and grab hold to the edge that is sewn to the blanket. Hold the open edge of the pillow pocket with your other hand. Pull the inside edge of the pillow pocket toward you while simultaneously pulling or flipping the free edge away from you and around the folded blanket. It may help to think of it this way: the pillow pocket is being flipped inside out and you are stuffing the blanket into the flipped pocket. It may take a few tries to get the hang of the flip. Smooth the edges and fluff for a perfect pillow. Convert back to a blanket by simply flipping and unfolding the blanket. It should pop out of the pillow easily. | Select your fabric. Select your batting. Buy thread that matches your pattern. Trim your fabric to the desired size. Lay the fabric down, one piece on top of the other, with the right sides touching each other. Lay the batting on top of the two pieces of fabric, then pin the edges of the three layers together. Stitch the three layers together with a 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) seam, taking care to not sew the 12 inch (30.5 cm) opening closed. Turn the blanket right-side out through the 12 inch (30.5 cm) opening. Sew a 1/4 inch seam around all four edges of the quilt, closing the 12 inch (30.5 cm) opening. Fold the 1⁄2 yard (0.5 m) fabric in half, right sides facing each other, and stitch the long edges of the rectangle together with a 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) seam. Turn the blanket right-side out through the open side of the pillow pocket. Sew a 1/4 inch seam to close the open edge only; do not stitch the way around the pocket. Lay the larger, main blanket on a flat surface and lay the pillow pocket at the top center of the blanket. Sew the three outer edges of the pillow pocket to the blanket using a 1⁄4 inch (0.6 cm) seam. Lay the blanket on the ground, pocket side down. Fold the outer edges of the blanket to the opposite edges of the pocket. Fold the blanket up from the bottom, once again into thirds. Flip pocket over the blanket. Smooth the edges and fluff for a perfect pillow. Convert back to a blanket by simply flipping and unfolding the blanket. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-Straight | How to Write Straight | If your handwriting is often uneven, you can straighten it out with a little careful practice. Use lined paper to practice until you get the hang of it. Make sure all of your letters touch the line where they're supposed to. Usually, this will be the bottom of the letter. However, the letters g,p,y,and q should have their bodies resting on the line with their tails hanging underneath it. Practice writing slowly, and gradually increase your speed as you get more confident. The more you practice, the straighter you'll be able to write. | Practice every day. Daily practice will help you see results when you are working to improve your handwriting. You will want to examine your handwriting as you practice, evaluating your results and making any changes that you think are needed. Regular practice has been shown to be a great way to learn and maintain skills. Many worksheets are available on-line and have examples that you can practice with. Regular and consistent practice is critical to learning and mastering a new skill. Practice with both lined and blank paper. Practice with lined paper. Before you begin to practice at keeping your sentences straight without lines, you will want to use lined paper to help guide your writing. These lines will help you practice keeping your writing straight, allowing you to have straighter writing when you write without them. Letters known as “descenders” should have their body sitting on the line while their stems dip below the line. The letters g,p,y,q, and j are all descenders. Letters that are classified as “ascenders” should have their body sitting on the line and their stems should extend upwards, about halfway to the line above. The letters b,d,h,t,l, and k are ascenders. All other letters should rest directly on the line. Create some guide lines. If you have trouble writing straight without lines you can try adding some of your own guide lines to the blank sheet of paper. You will need a ruler or straight-edge and a pencil to draw your guide lines. These lines can help keep your writing straight and can be erased after you are done writing. Place your ruler straight across the page where you want to write a line. Lightly draw a guide line with your pencil. Remove the ruler. Use this guide line to keep your writing straight. After you are done writing, you can erase the guide line and leave your straightly formed writing. Write slow while practicing. Taking your time when writing can help make handwriting look clean and sharp. Writing slowly can also help you to write straighter, as it gives you time to adjust the slant of your writing as you go. Always relax and take your time when writing to help you keep your sentences in a straight line. Rushing to write can cause your handwriting to slant or look untidy. As you write slowly, focus on keeping your sentences in straight lines. Slowing down can also help you learn better during practice sessions. Keep your arm and wrist in the same position. When you are writing, you will make use of many small movements in your fingers, wrist, hand, and arm. By focusing on using your entire arm and wrist, instead of just your fingers, you can help your writing to look clean and straight. Practice by making large letters, drawing them in the air with your hand. Avoid using your fingers to draw a letter. This can result in slanted handwriting and may cause your hand to cramp up. Use your entire arm and wrist to form your letters which will make your writing more fluid and straight. Check your posture. Although it may seem like a small part of your handwriting practice, using the proper handwriting posture can help keep your handwriting straight. By sitting in the right way, your movements will shift and allow you greater control over your handwriting. Sit down with your feet flat on the floor and keep your back straight. Place your non-writing hand on the table to balance yourself. Don't practice writing while sitting on something soft like a couch or reclining chair. Properly grip the pen or pencil. An important part of improving your handwriting, and keeping it straight, is gripping the pen or pencil properly. Holding your writing utensil incorrectly can cause you to lose control over it, resulting in sloppy or tilted sentences and letters. Always make sure you are holding the pen or pencil properly when you are practicing writing. Hold the pencil close to the tip, using your thumb and pointer finger to grip it. Let the pencil rest on your middle finger, near the last knuckle. Don't grip the pencil too tightly. | Practice every day. Practice with lined paper. Create some guide lines. Write slow while practicing. Keep your arm and wrist in the same position. Check your posture. Properly grip the pen or pencil. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Calculate-the-Volume-of-an-Irregular-Object | How to Calculate the Volume of an Irregular Object | To calculate the volume of an irregular object, start by breaking down the object into more regular shapes like cones, cubes, or pyramids. Then, write down the measurements of each section and use them to calculate the volume of each part using their respective formulas. Once you've found the volume of each individual shape, add them all together to get the total volume of the object. | Make sure the object is waterproof before you begin. This method involves submerging the object in the water. If the object is hollow and not watertight, you cannot get an accurate measure of volume using this method. If the object absorbs water, make sure water will not damage it and read the instructions carefully to see how to adjust the process. Never drop an electric or electronic item in water, as this could cause a dangerous electrical shock and/or damage the object beyond repair. If you have access to a vacuum sealer, you may be able to seal a small object in a watertight plastic coating with minimal air inside. This will allow you to get a good estimate of volume since the volume of the plastic used is likely to be relatively small compared to the volume of the object. Find a container that can comfortably fit the object you are measuring. If you are measuring a small object, you could use a graduated cylinder or measuring cup, which have volume measurements printed on the side. Otherwise, find a watertight container with a volume that is simple to calculate, such as a cylinder or rectangular box. A bowl will not be as accurate, but you can treat it as a cylinder and get an approximate answer, especially if the object is very small compared to the bowl. It's a good idea to locate a dry towel as well, since the object will be dripping water when removed from the container. Fill it partway with water. Add enough water to submerge the object, but leave plenty of space between the water and the top of the container. If the object has an irregularly shaped base, such as rounded bottom corners, fill it up enough that the water level reaches a more regular portion, such as straight rectangular walls. Mark the water level. If the container is transparent, mark the top of the water level on the outside with a wet-erase marker or another easily cleaned writing device. Otherwise, mark the water level on the inside using a piece of colored tape or other mark that will not be washed off by the water. If you are using a graduated cylinder or measuring cup with volume measurements on the side, you do not need to make a mark. Just look for the volume measurement at the water's surface, and write this number down. Drop the object into the water and see if it absorbs water. Sink the object you want to measure completely in the water. If the object absorbs water, wait at least thirty seconds for it to absorb the water, then remove the object. The water level should have dropped, since some of the water is in the object. Remove your old mark or piece of colored tape, and replace it with a new one at the new water level. You may then drop the object into the water a second time and leave it there. Learn what to do if the object floats. If the object floats, attach a dense, heavy item to it and continue on to measure the volume of both combined. After you write down that result, repeat this method with the heavy item alone to find its volume. Take the combined volume of both items (your first result), then subtract the heavy item's volume. The answer is the volume of the original object. When you take the volume of the heavy item alone, include anything you used to attach it to the original object, such as safety pins or tape. Make a second mark where the new water level is. If you are using a graduated cylinder or measuring cup, you can write down the volume measurement at the new water height instead. Once you have done this, you can remove your object. You may not wish to leave the object underwater for more than a couple minutes, since even some "waterproof" objects can be affected if left underwater for too long. Understand why this method works. Since you know the water rose from one level to a higher level when the object was submerged, the volume of space between those two levels is the volume of the object. This is called the displacement method , and works because an object submerged in water always "displaces" an amount of water exactly equal to its volume. Depending on what type of container you used, there are different ways to calculate the volume of this displaced water, which is the same as your object's volume. Finish the problem by continuing on to the step that matches your container's description. Find the volume using your container's printed measurements. If you used a graduated cylinder, measuring cup, or any other container that has volume measurements printed on the side, you already wrote down the two volumes you need to calculate the answer. Take the volume you wrote down when the object was submerged (the larger volume) and subtract the original volume of the water level (the smaller volume). The answer is the volume of the object. Find the volume using a rectangular container. If you used a rectangular container, look at the space in the box between the first water mark and second water mark you made. This space forms a "rectangular prism", or box shape, that was filled with the displaced water. Find the volume of this space by measuring the height between the two water marks, then the length and width between the container's inside surfaces. As explained here , you can find the volume of this box-shaped space by multiplying its length, width, and height together (length x width x height). The answer to this multiplication problem is the volume of the object. Do not measure the height of the entire container, just the height from one water mark to another. Use this online calculator or search for another "rectangular prism calculator" that can multiply these numbers for you. Find the volume using a cylindrical container. If you used a cylindrical container, look at the space between the first water mark and the second water mark. This cylindrical space was once filled with the displaced water, and so its volume is equal to the object's volume. To find the volume of this cylindrical space , you'll need to measure two distances: its height and its diameter. First, measure the height between the two water marks, and write this down. Next, find the diameter of the cylinder by measuring the distance from the inside edge of the cylinder to the opposite side, through the center. Then divide the diameter by two to find the radius, which is the distance from the center of the circle to the edge. Write the radius down, then use your measurements to finish the calculations: Calculate πr , or π x the radius x the radius, to find the area of a circle across the cylinder. If you don't have a calculator with a π button, find one online or estimate by replacing it with 3.14. Multiple your answer by the height between the water marks (which you measured at the beginning of this step) to find the volume of space the water took up. This answer is also the volume of your object. You can get a more precise answer, or save yourself some math, if you enter your measurements on an online cylinder volume calculator. Break down the object into more regular shapes. If a word problem describes an irregular object and asks you to find its volume, you are probably expected to break it up into sections. The word problem may hint at this by describing the object as, for instance, "a cone on top of a cube," or you may have to figure out from a diagram how to divide it into objects with easier shapes to measure. Look for places where the irregular object is joined together at an unstated angle (not 90º). Can you "cut it apart" at that angle into two objects that have names, such as cylinders or pyramids? These do not have to be the same object. Write down the measurements of each section. To find the volume of a cube, rectangular prism, or pyramid, you'll need to know its length, width, and height. To find the volume of a cylinder or cone, you'll need to know its radius and height. Read the word problem carefully and write down the measurements of each section, carefully labeling them or drawing a diagram of each section with the measurements written on it. If the word problem tells you the diameter but not the radius, divide the d iameter by two to get the radius. You may need to do some addition or subtraction to find the measurements you need. For instance, say the problem tells you "a building shaped like a cone on top of a cube has a height of 30 units, but the height of the cube section is only 20 units tall." The height of the cone isn't listed, but logically it must be 30 units - 20 units = 10 units. Calculate the volume of each section. Use the more common volume formulas for regular objects to find the volume of each section. Write down the result of each calculation and label it so you don't forget which section you've already calculated. If you need a refresher on how to calculate volumes, see these instructions for common shapes. Add each result together. Once you've calculated the volume of each section separately, add every result together to get the volume of the entire object. Reread the word problem to make sure you didn't forget anything. If everything checks out, congratulations: you have found the answer. | Make sure the object is waterproof before you begin. Find a container that can comfortably fit the object you are measuring. Fill it partway with water. Mark the water level. Drop the object into the water and see if it absorbs water. Learn what to do if the object floats. Make a second mark where the new water level is. Understand why this method works. Find the volume using your container's printed measurements. Find the volume using a rectangular container. Find the volume using a cylindrical container. Break down the object into more regular shapes. Write down the measurements of each section. Calculate the volume of each section. Add each result together. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Chateaubriand | How to Cook Chateaubriand | To cook chateaubriand, start by trimming the fat off the meat with a knife. Then, sear the chateaubriand for a few minutes on each side. Once you've seared both sides of the meat, roast it in the oven at 350 °F for 15-20 minutes or until the chateaubriand reaches 135 °F. When the chateaubriand is finished, let it rest for 10 minutes before serving. | Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C) and trim the chateaubriand. Get out 2 1-3/4 pound pieces of chateaubriand and use a sharp paring knife to cut away the silverskin and visible fat. You may need to use your fingers to pull the silverskin away from the meat. The silverskin is the silvery membrane on the surface of the meat. If you don't remove it, the membrane will make the meat tough. Heat the olive oil over high heat for 2 minutes. Pour 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of olive oil into a large, oven-safe grill pan or skillet and turn the burner to high. Heat the oil until it becomes hot and shimmery. Avoid using extra-virgin olive oil because it has a lower smoke point and will burn. If you prefer, you can sear the chateaubriand on a charcoal or gas grill instead of on the stove top. Season the chateaubriand and sear it for 3 to 4 minutes. Right before you're ready to sear the meat, sprinkle salt and pepper to taste over each side of the chateaubriand. Immediately lower both pieces of meat into the hot grill pan or skillet. Let the meat sear without moving them so they brown evenly. The chateaubriand should sizzle as soon as you place it in the pan. If it doesn't, you grill pan needs to be hotter. Turn the meat and sear it in butter for 3 to 4 more minutes. Use tongs to flip the chateaubriand over and add the butter to the grill pan. Sear the meat until it's browned on all sides and then turn off the burner. If you like, you can carefully spoon hot butter over the meat as it sears. Transfer the chateaubriand to the preheated oven. Put on an oven mitt and open the oven door. Put the grill pan with the seared chateaubriand in the center of your oven. Roast the chateaubriand until it reaches 130 °F (54 °C) to 135 °F (57 °C). Insert an instant-read thermometer into the thickest part of the meat. Cook the chateaubriand to 130 °F (54 °C) for rare or 135 °F (57 °C) for medium-rare. You can begin checking the meat after roasting it for 15 to 20 minutes. Keep in mind that the meat will continue to cook a little as it rests. Remove and rest the meat for 10 to 15 minutes. Wear oven mitts to remove the hot grill pan from the oven. Use tongs to move the chateaubriand onto a plate or cutting board and cover the meat loosely with aluminum foil. Let the meat rest so the juices redistribute within the meat. Combine the vinegar with the white wine, peppercorns, and shallot. Pour the tarragon vinegar into a small saucepan and whisk in the white wine, coarsely crushed peppercorns, and 1 finely diced shallot. Boil the liquid until it's reduced by half. Turn the burner to high so the liquid comes to a rolling boil. Keep boiling the mixture and whisk it occasionally until half of the liquid evaporates. Keep an eye on the mixture because it reduce within a few minutes. Cool the reduction for 1 minute. Turn off the burner and let the reduction cool a little before you whisk in the remaining sauce ingredients. If you add the remaining ingredients while the reduction is very hot, the sauce could curdle. Whisk in 4 eggs and the lemon juice. Put the saucepan back on the burner and turn the heat to medium-low. Whisk in the eggs 1 at a time and then the fresh lemon juice. The sauce should be thin and combined. Whisk in the butter and allow the sauce to thicken. Whisk in 3 tablespoons (42 g) of the softened butter until it melts and incorporates into the sauce. Continue to whisk in the rest of the softened butter 3 tablespoons (42 g) at a time until it's slowly combined with the sauce. The sauce will thicken as you whisk. Turn off the burner and stir in salt, pepper, and tarragon. Once the sauce is thick enough to stick to the whisk, turn off the burner and whisk in salt and pepper according to your taste. You'll also need to whisk in 2 to 3 tablespoons (3 to 5 g) of fresh minced tarragon leaves. If the sauce isn't as thick as you'd like it, continue to cook it over low heat for 1 to 2 minutes. Slice the chateaubriand. Use a sharp carving knife to cut the meat into ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm)-thick slices. To ensure tender slices, remember to cut against the grain. Plate the slices of meat. Divide the chateaubriand slices among 4 serving plates. If you prefer to let your guests serve themselves, set the meat on a serving platter in the center of the table. Store leftover chateaubriand in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3 to 5 days. Spoon the béarnaise sauce over the meat. Use a ladle to spoon sauce directly on the slices of meat. Do this just before you serve the meat, so the sauce stays warm. Set out a bowl of béarnaise sauce on the table. Fill a gravy boat or sauce dish with the rest of the béarnaise sauce and place it near the meat. Your guests can help themselves to more sauce, if they need it. Béarnaise sauce should be used soon after it's made. Avoid storing leftover sauce because it will separate and congeal. | Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C) and trim the chateaubriand. Heat the olive oil over high heat for 2 minutes. Season the chateaubriand and sear it for 3 to 4 minutes. Turn the meat and sear it in butter for 3 to 4 more minutes. Transfer the chateaubriand to the preheated oven. Roast the chateaubriand until it reaches 130 °F (54 °C) to 135 °F (57 °C). Remove and rest the meat for 10 to 15 minutes. Combine the vinegar with the white wine, peppercorns, and shallot. Boil the liquid until it's reduced by half. Cool the reduction for 1 minute. Whisk in 4 eggs and the lemon juice. Whisk in the butter and allow the sauce to thicken. Turn off the burner and stir in salt, pepper, and tarragon. Slice the chateaubriand. Plate the slices of meat. Spoon the béarnaise sauce over the meat. Set out a bowl of béarnaise sauce on the table. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Organize-a-Craft-Room | How to Organize a Craft Room | To organize a craft room, start by sorting all of your supplies by type and donating or disposing of things you no longer need. Then, store similar items together in plastic bins or storage boxes. You can also use a bookshelf, spice rack, or metal tins to store your crafting supplies in. As you're putting things away, try to arrange similar items, like fabrics and yarn, by color, which will make it easier to find what you're looking for. Also, label all of your storage containers using a label maker or with labels you printed off the computer. | Gather all of your craft items. Grab a basket and walk throughout your living space grabbing any and all craft supplies and tools. Carry them into your designated craft room and place everything in the middle of the floor. Once you think that you've gotten it all, go back through one more time just to be certain. Make sure to open all of your drawers and cabinets, as craft supplies can often 'hide.' Likewise, go through your craft room and identify any objects or items that do not belong there and move them out. They may need to go in a 'staging area' in another room, so that you can concentrate your energy on your craft area. Sort your supplies out according to item type. Look over your supply pile and begin to build smaller piles based upon different categories of supplies. For example, put all of your wrapping paper together. All fabrics should go together initially. After these first piles are finished, you can go back through them and narrow them even further according to size and color. For example, put all of the red wrapping paper together. At this point your room may be in controlled chaos, so be careful walking around or you may slip on one of your piles. For that reason, try to keep other people out of the room as well, at least during this stage. To keep you from feeling overwhelmed, bring an egg timer into the room and set it for 15-minutes. When the timer goes off, take a 5-minute break. Then, re-set the timer and start again. This will keep you motivated to work at a steady pace without burning out. Decide what to donate. As you sort, identify items that are worth donating. Perhaps you have multiples of some items or maybe leftover supplies from projects that you've completed and moved on from. Make sure that whatever you donate is safe for another user. For example, don't donate rusty scissors or any cracked glass items. Various charity organizations, schools, and libraries will gladly accept donations of craft supplies as long as they are in good condition. This is a great opportunity to share your interest in crafting with other people. Depending on the amount of items that you have, some charities will actually come to your house and pick them up for you. This may be a good opportunity to do organize other areas of your home as well. Create a trash pile and dispose of it. As you sort, identify items that need to be thrown away. This could be items that you no longer find useful, but that aren't suitable for donation due to condition or quantity. You should also trash any supplies that are no good anymore, such as dried out glue or frayed ribbons. Ask yourself if you've used the item in the past year and if you haven't odds are it needs to be thrown away or donated. Take the trash out after you've finished sorting the main pile. If you wait you are likely to leave it there and it will become an eyesore and will slow your organizing progress. Repeat this process every few weeks. As life goes on, many of your supplies will likely wander out of your craft space once more. To keep your area tidy and useful for you, go through a sorting and cleaning process fairly often, especially after completing a major project. Also, devote at least ten minutes after you finish working in your craft room for picking up and storing items in their new proper places. Devoting even this small amount of time can make a major difference in the long-term appearance of your craft room. Store similar items together. You'll want to keep your supplies together in their sorted piles as you place them in their designated storage spots and containers. Extra-small items will need to be placed in extra-small containers and will probably be grouped together for storage and then usage. Keep an eye out for items that may appear similar but that have slightly different functions. These situations may require that you divide up your storage system even further. For example, you'll want to divide your fabric scissors from your paper scissors. Use plastic bins. These are the number one storage option when organizing a craft room. They come in a wide variety of sizes and are easy to stack. They also fit well within a cube shelf. You can see inside the clear bins, making it easy to find an item that you are looking for. Depending on how you arrange your bins, you will want to purchase ones that open on the top or via a front panel. Look for lids that snap on tightly to avoid spilling your supplies. Bins are also especially useful when working with messy items such as paints. In addition, they contain fumes from paints as well. Make sure to purchase extra bins, and to leave space in the ones that you currently use, for new supplies that you may purchase. Arrange items by color. Store and display your craft supplies according to the color wheel. This will create a quick way for you to find an item that you need for a particular project. It will also lead to beautiful displays of items within the room itself. For example, if you have a bunch of balls of yarn, sort them according to color (reds next to orange tints, etc.) and place them in a wooden cube bookcase for quick access and visual appeal. Repurpose materials as storage containers. Almost any container that is sturdy with a lid can be reused as storage in your craft room. Try to think creatively and find jars, buckets, etc. that you find visually appealing already. They will be even more attractive when holding your supplies. Here are a few unique ideas. To house smaller items such as sequins, use little plastic pill storage boxes that you can get at a pharmacy or grocery store. For colored beads, place them in a spice rack by color for ease of access and beauty. Small tins or colored buckets make a great storage option for pens, pencils, and paintbrushes. For a more industrial look, grab a magnetic knife holder from your kitchen, attach it to the wall of your craft room, and use it to display your sharp cutting devices and scissors. This works best when positioned close to your standing work area. Look at crafting sites and blogs online or buy inspirational craft books/magazines in order to find additional design ideas that may suit your particular space and taste. Label everything. This is especially important when storing items in plastic bins or opaque containers. As you put away every storage container, make sure that it has a clear and visible label that you can see from the center of your craft room. For example, the bin with tape should say, “Tape-clear.” You can get as fancy as you'd like with the labels. Some people prefer to use a standard label maker while others print directly from online templates. You can even make your own labels by hand. Install shelving. You want to get the most use out of all surfaces within your room, so don't ignore the walls. Look around your craft room and consider adding shelves to many of the open spaces on the walls. Think creatively about shelving and use materials such as recycled bookcase shelves or even old metal signs repurposed as shelves. Locate your work table for ease of access. Get a sturdy table that you'd feel comfortable working on and place it in the most convenient space in the room, usually right in the middle. You want to be able to access it from all sides. Consider adding a chair or stool, unless you plan to stand all of the time when crafting. In addition to your main table, you may want another one placed against the wall that will almost act like a workbench. You can hang items on the wall next to it for quick grabbing access. Keep your favorite supplies close by. The materials that you are using for a current project, or those that you consistently rely upon, should be placed close to your table workspace. For example, if you are a seamstress, do not hide your best pair of cutting shears in a labeled storage bin in the closet. Emphasize the natural light when possible. If you have a choice of room, pick a room with ample light sources. This will help to save you from eye strain as you work on your projects. You can also supplement the light by adding interesting (and bright) lamps. Hanging lamps often work the quite well as they are out of the way. Create an inspiration board. Pin up photos or drawings to a fabric-covered poster board. Or, hang a magnetic board on your wall and attach items to it. Clip or write down quotes that you like and attach them to the board. Let it keep growing until you feel the need to remove some items into storage. This can be a fairly chaotic, but inspirational space, in an another organized room. To add even more visual appeal, use colorful and creative stick-pins to attach items to the board. You can even go with pieces of patterned tape too. Decorate with beautiful craft items. If you love your yarn, don't hide it, display it. As you sort out items at the start of this process, look for those supplies that you find particularly visually stunning or exciting. Try to create spaces out in the open to store these items. For example, lengths of ribbon can be stored and displayed by hanging a peg board on the wall. Create more access by manipulating your space. Don't be afraid to use every inch of your craft room for some storage, display, or work purpose. You can paint inspirational quotes on the ceiling and hang items from it too. You can go vertical up the walls and increase your reach by employing footstools. Typically neglected areas, such as the backs of doors, can be put to good use with hanging storage pouches. Increase your visibility in closet spaces by removing the doors and replacing them with a rod and curtain. When you first enter your room, sweep aside the curtain and you've got instant access and visibility into this space. | Gather all of your craft items. Sort your supplies out according to item type. Decide what to donate. Create a trash pile and dispose of it. Repeat this process every few weeks. Store similar items together. Use plastic bins. Arrange items by color. Repurpose materials as storage containers. Label everything. Install shelving. Locate your work table for ease of access. Keep your favorite supplies close by. Emphasize the natural light when possible. Create an inspiration board. Decorate with beautiful craft items. Create more access by manipulating your space. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Blood-from-Walls | How to Clean Blood from Walls | If you've had an accident that has left bloodstains on your walls, all you'll need are some common cleaning materials to make them look as good as new. For tiled walls, use a sponge to scrub a scouring agent onto the stain. You can also make your own tile and grout cleaner by mixing baking soda, ammonia, white vinegar, and water. If you don't have these ingredients handy, try soaking hydrogen peroxide, diluted bleach, or white vinegar into the stained grout, scrub it gently with a sponge, then rinse it with water. For painted or papered walls, try making a mixture of water and liquid dishwashing detergent. Dip a rag or sponge into the solution and gently rub the stain. You can also try rubbing the stain with a paste of baking soda and water. | Treat blood stains as soon as possible. Blood stains will set over time and may seep into deeper layers of your wall, making them more difficult to remove. If possible, clean up a blood stain as soon as it occurs. Remove as much blood as possible before starting any cleaning. If the blood is still wet, use a cloth or paper towel to soak it up. If it is dry, see if you can gently scrape it from the wall, using a plastic putty knife or similar tool. Be careful, though, not to scrape the wall surface. Wet old stains gently with water. Start with the gentlest materials possible. Use soft clothes or paper towels, not abrasive sponges. Begin by trying to clean the stain with water. If that doesn't work, move on to detergent, and then to stronger cleaners or specially-designed stain products. Use your own saliva to clean up your own blood. Test the effects of any cleaning product on an inconspicuous area before beginning to clean in earnest. Take special precautions if the blood may contain pathogens. Wear gloves and use a disinfectant. Be especially cautious when handling blood stains or spills of unknown origin. While getting ill from cleaning a blood stain, especially an old one, is very unlikely, it's better to be safe. Use freshly diluted bleach or a disinfectant that is registered with the Environmental Protection Agency or similar body and is labeled for use with potential blood-borne pathogens such as HIV, HBV, or HCV. If the spill occurs in a public facility, such as a school, prison, or hospital, consult and follow the facility's procedures for cleaning up bodily fluids. Be very gentle with wallpaper. While vinyl wallpaper holds up the best to cleaning, any wallpaper will start to separate from the wall if too much water or force is applied. Avoid cleaning over seams if possible. Make a mixture of one quart of lukewarm water and ½ teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent. Add a tablespoon of ammonia to make a stronger solution. Dip a washcloth, rag or soft sponge in the soap solution. Wring out any excess water, to ensure that the cleaning cloth is not dripping wet. Then, gently rub the stain, repeating as necessary. Make a paste of baking soda and water. Rub it gently over the stain. Rinse off with clean water and dry the area with a soft cloth. Spray hydrogen peroxide on the stain. Allow the solution to sit for a short period, being careful to wipe up any drips. Scrub very gently, then rinse with clean water. Use an enzyme product. These are products containing enzymes design to digest blood or other bodily fluids that contain protein. Follow the directions on the bottle, being extra careful to test the product's effect on your wall surface before starting. Dry the area with a dry cloth and allow it to dry completely. Be careful not to leave any cleaning solution on the wall after cleaning. Even if this attempt wasn't successful, be sure to dry the area thoroughly to avoid damaging the paint or paper. Repaint. If you can't get a blood stain off a painted wall, you will need to repaint. If you painted recently, you can repaint just the stained area. However, if a lot of time has passed, you may need to repaint the whole wall. Be sure to use a primer first directly over the stain. Some primers are specially designed to cover stains well; read the labels to choose the best one. Patch stained wallpaper with a remnant or scrap. Cut a patch large enough to cover the stain and tape it over the stained area, matching the pattern as closely as possible. Use a razor knife and straight edge to cut through both layers of paper. Remove the patch, setting it aside, and carefully remove the stained paper underneath, cleaning up any backing left behind. Then insert the patch, following the directions for the type of paper and paste you are working with. Adjust the patch to align the pattern and smooth with a damp sponge. Use a non-abrasive household scouring agent. Scrub the stain using a sponge. An ordinary bathroom sponge should not be abrasive enough to scratch tile, but proceed cautiously and test in an inconspicuous spot. Rinse all of the scouring agent off with clean water when done. You may also make your own tile and grout cleaner by mixing ½ cup baking soda, 1/3 cup ammonia, ¼ cup white vinegar, and seven cups of water. Combine in a spray bottle, mix thoroughly, and spray onto the stained area. Scrub and rinse. Soak hydrogen peroxide, diluted bleach, or white vinegar into stained grout. Scrub gently with a sponge. Rinse with water and be sure to soak up any excess cleaner. Use a commercial tile cleaner. Follow the directions on the label closely, as these products can be toxic. Cover the stain with a piece of paper towel. Soak the towel with liquid dishwashing detergent and a small amount of water. Allow the mixture to sit on the stain for thirty minutes, then wipe away. Rinse and dry. | Treat blood stains as soon as possible. Remove as much blood as possible before starting any cleaning. Start with the gentlest materials possible. Take special precautions if the blood may contain pathogens. Be very gentle with wallpaper. Make a mixture of one quart of lukewarm water and ½ teaspoon liquid dishwashing detergent. Dip a washcloth, rag or soft sponge in the soap solution. Make a paste of baking soda and water. Spray hydrogen peroxide on the stain. Use an enzyme product. Dry the area with a dry cloth and allow it to dry completely. Repaint. Patch stained wallpaper with a remnant or scrap. Use a non-abrasive household scouring agent. Soak hydrogen peroxide, diluted bleach, or white vinegar into stained grout. Use a commercial tile cleaner. Cover the stain with a piece of paper towel. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Out-of-Quicksand | How to Get Out of Quicksand | To get out of quicksand, start by taking a few deep breaths to calm down since panicking will make you sink faster. Then, bend your body backward so you're lying on your back on top of the quicksand, and carefully work your legs out of the quicksand until they're no longer stuck. Next, use your arms to propel yourself to the edge of the quicksand like you would if you were swimming. Finally, once you reach the edge, roll your body onto solid ground. | Drop everything. If you step into quicksand and you're wearing a backpack or carrying something heavy, immediately take off your backpack or drop what you're carrying. Because your body is less dense than quicksand, you can't fully sink unless you panic and struggle too much or you're weighed down by something heavy. If it's possible to get out of your shoes, do so. Shoes, especially those with flat, inflexible soles (many boots, for example) create suction as you try to pull them out of quicksand. If you know ahead of time that you are highly likely to encounter quicksand, change out of your boots and either go barefoot or wear shoes that you can pull your feet out of easily. Move horizontally. If you feel your feet getting stuck, take a quick couple of steps backward before the quicksand takes hold. It usually takes a minute for the mix to liquify, which means the best method of getting yourself unstuck is to not get stuck in the first place. If your feet do become stuck, avoid taking big lumbering steps to try to get yourself out. Taking a big step forward might unstick one foot, but push your other farther down, making it extremely difficult to completely unstick yourself. Lay back. Sit down and lean back if your feet are stuck fast. Creating a larger "footprint" should free your feet by removing the pressure they create, allowing them to float. When you feel them start to come free, roll to your side away from the quicksand and free of its grip. You'll get dirty, but its the quickest and safest way to free yourself. Take your time. If you're stuck in quicksand, frantic movements will only hurt your cause. Whatever you do, do it slowly. Slow movements will prevent you from agitating the quicksand; vibrations caused by rapid movements can turn otherwise relatively firm ground into more quicksand. More importantly, quicksand can react unpredictably to your movements. If you move slowly, you can more easily stop an adverse reaction and, by doing so, avoid getting yourself stuck deeper. You're going to need to be patient. Depending on how much quicksand is around you, it could take several minutes or even hours to slowly, methodically get yourself out. Relax. Quicksand usually isn't more than a couple feet deep, but if you do happen to come across a particularly deep spot, you could very well sink quite quickly down to your waist or chest. If you panic you can sink further, but if you relax, your body's buoyancy will cause you to float. Breathe deeply. Not only will deep breathing help you remain calm, it will also make you more buoyant. Keep as much air in your lungs as possible. It is impossible to "go under" if your lungs are full of air. Get on your back and "swim. " If you sink up to your hips or higher, bend backward. The more you spread out your weight, the harder it will be to sink. Float on your back while you slowly and carefully extricate your legs. Once your legs are free you can inch yourself to safety by using your arms to slowly and smoothly propel yourself backward with your arms in a sweeping motion, as if you were swimming. When you get near the edge of the quicksand, you can roll to hard ground. Use a stick. Carry a walking stick any time you're in quicksand country. As soon as you feel your ankles sink, lay the pole on the surface of the quicksand horizontally behind you. Flop onto your back on top of the pole. After a minute or two, you will achieve balance in the quicksand, and you'll stop sinking. Work the pole towards a new position; move it under your hips. The pole will prevent your hips from sinking, so you can slowly pull one leg free, then the other. Stay flat on your back with your arms and legs fully touching the quicksand and use the pole as a guide. Inch sideways along the pole to firm ground. Take frequent breaks. The work of extracting yourself can be exhausting, so you need to work judiciously, conserving your energy before you become too tired. You do need to move quickly, however, as the pressure of the sand can shut off your blood flow and cause nerve damage, numbing your legs and making it almost impossible to free yourself without help. Contrary to popular movies and television, most quicksand-related fatalities do not occur because you become sucked under, but from exposure or drowning in incoming tides. Recognize common quicksand areas. While quicksand is not a unique kind of soil, it can form anywhere groundwater mixes with sandy soil, creating a distinctive soupy mixture. Learning to anticipate places you might encounter quicksand is the best way to avoid becoming entangled in it. Quicksand most commonly occurs in: Tidal flats Swamps and marshes Near lake shores Near underground springs Look for ripples. Be on the lookout for ground that appears unstable and wet, or sand that has unnatural looking "ripples" in the texture. You should be able to see water seeping up from below the sand, making quicksand quite visible if you're on the lookout as you're hiking around. Test the ground in front of you with your walking stick. Always bring a hefty walking stick, both to use in case you become stuck, but also to tap the ground in front of you as you walk. A few seconds with a walking stick could be the difference between a messy wrestling match with a pool of quicksand and a safe hike. | Drop everything. Move horizontally. Lay back. Take your time. Relax. Get on your back and "swim. Use a stick. Take frequent breaks. Recognize common quicksand areas. Look for ripples. Test the ground in front of you with your walking stick. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-Productive | How to Be Productive | If you want to be productive, start by making a to-do list and creating a plan for how you'll get those things done. When you have a plan, gather what you need to get the work done and keep them organized so you don't get slowed down looking for things. Keep on task by removing distractions such as your phone or social media sites. Work on one thing at a time and focus on accomplishing the most important tasks first while you have the energy and focus. Though productivity is important, make sure you take breaks so you don't get burned out. | Make a to-do list. Write down all of your tasks, as well as everything you would like to accomplish for the day/week or keep a running list of tasks that you need to get done. To-do lists are tried-and-true productivity tools, but they only work if you use them correctly. Be as concrete, specific and reasonable about your tasks as possible. For example, don't just write "clean the house." Instead try "pick up the living room," "vacuum rug" or "take out the trash"—smaller, more discrete tasks are better. Don't let yourself get intimidated by or distracted by your to-do list. If you are spending all your time thinking of things you need to put on your list, that can be just as bad as not keeping one at all. Try to create your to-do list in one sitting and don't let yourself add to it throughout the day unless you have to. Make a plan. Figure out what things on your list you can reasonably accomplish, and decide what order you are going to do them in. If you can, make a schedule for the day that includes when you are going to work on each task and when you are going to stop to eat or take a break. Be aware that tasks will often take more or less time than expected. Don't beat yourself up over this, and don't let it throw your whole plan out of whack. If something doesn't go as planned, just do your best to adjust your schedule and move on with your work. Prioritize and do triage. Have the just way to many things on your plate to get everything done on time? Decide which things are most important and do those. You might have had big dreams of doing your taxes and washing the dog, but one or the other might have to wait. Trying to take on too much at a time is the fastest way to end up overwhelmed and unproductive. If there are tasks you have been meaning to do for a long time and never get done, don't let them hang over your head forever. Set yourself a deadline or pick a day to do them—or else decide that you can get by okay without them. Set goals. Whether cleaning, studying or working, set reasonable but challenging goals for how much you are going to write, read, or create in a day. Don't let yourself quit until you've accomplished that amount. Try to be positive about your goals and don't let them intimidate you. Know that you can accomplish them if you stay focused. Consider creating rewards or punishments for yourself around your goals. Promise to treat yourself with something you want if you are successful. Threaten yourself with an undesirable consequence, such as donating money to a cause you disagree with. This works best if you can hand over control of the reward or punishment to a friend who won't let go back on your agreements. Be mindful of your effectiveness. Don't get caught up thinking about how productive or unproductive you are being in the moment, but later do reflect on how well you stayed focused, how much you stuck to your plan, how accurate your schedule timing was. Note unexpected problems or disruptions to your workflow and think about what you can do to improve next time. Consider keeping a journal to jot down what worked and what didn't work at the end of each day. Keep your tools and materials organized. Nothing will slow you down like not knowing where to find some vital file or object, or having to search through emails to remember the time of an appointment. Create robust systems to file information, store instruments, and record your appointments. Remove distractions. We live in a world with an endless opportunity for stimulation and distraction. From TV to blogs to instant messaging, not to mention friends, family, and pets, it is so easy to spend just a minute on this and a minute on that and find the whole day lost. Don't let that happen! Keep your eyes on the prize by removing as many distractions and opportunities for distraction as possible. Close your email and social media sites. Turn off any notifications that will interrupt your work. If you must, budget a few minutes into your day to check your inbox and updates for anything important, but having them open while you work is sure to lower your productivity. Use browser extensions to block time-wasting websites. The Internet is full of interesting pictures,.gifs, videos and articles that will eat away at your day if you aren't mindful. Install a browser extension like StayFocusd , Leechblock or Nanny that will limit your time on distracting websites or keep you from checking them for certain periods during the day. You can also block distracting sites on your iPhone. Do whatever you can to put the temptation to check the news, browse your favorite blogs or watch cat videos out of reach. Turn off your phone. Don't answer calls, don't check text messages, nothing. Don't keep it near you. If it is important, whoever is calling will leave a message. If you are worried about emergencies, set aside one minute to check your phone every hour. Tell friends and family not to interrupt you. Keep your pets out of the room if they are going to be a problem. Use background noise to block out annoying noises and distractions. Constant background noise such as white, pink or brown noise but also natural noises such as the sound of rain or a river can help you to stay focused and boost your productivity. Use tools like Noisli. Turn off the TV or radio. Depending on you and the nature of your task, a little background noise might by fine—especially music without lyrics—but any kind of media on around you will usually lower your productivity if your task requires mental focus. Tackle one thing at a time. It's a common misconception that multitasking can make you more productive. The truth is we can only really do one thing at a time, and when we try to multitask we are just switching back and forth between different projects. Every time you make that switch, you lose time and focus. To be truly productive , pick one task and work on it until completion, then move on to something else. Keep your home or workspace tidy. Yes, cleaning up all the time takes time and effort, but a big mess can be distracting and you may end up losing more productivity than you saved. Keep your desk, house or workspace neat and organized, without clutter and with a minimum of loose objects to catch your eye. Go to bed early and get enough sleep. Being tired or sleep-deprived will make you more distracted and less productive. Set your alarm, and get up as soon as it goes off. Don't hit the snooze button over and over and end up oversleeping. Oversleeping even a few minutes can throw off your schedule and leave you out of sorts all day. Eat healthy meals. You may not notice it at first, but if you don't keep yourself nourished you will soon find yourself more distracted, stressed and scatterbrained. You will make mistakes and have to redo your work. Make sure you set aside time in your day to have full, healthy meals. Avoid heavy meals that are going to make you sluggish and want to nap. Digestion takes energy, and processing a large, greasy meal will sap your strength and focus. Take breaks. Don't exhaust yourself or force yourself to stare at the screen until you are a zombie. Every 15 minutes or so take 30 seconds to stretch and rest your eyes a bit. Every couple hours take five or ten minutes to do some exercise, have a snack and replenish your resolve. Use performance measuring tools and review yourself each week. Identify shortcomings and distractions. Make targets and recheck your performance each week. Get feedback from your peers and seniors to validate that work style improvement is apparent. Maintain your enthusiasm and performance. | Make a to-do list. Make a plan. Prioritize and do triage. Set goals. Be mindful of your effectiveness. Keep your tools and materials organized. Remove distractions. Tackle one thing at a time. Keep your home or workspace tidy. Go to bed early and get enough sleep. Set your alarm, and get up as soon as it goes off. Eat healthy meals. Take breaks. Use performance measuring tools and review yourself each week. Identify shortcomings and distractions. Make targets and recheck your performance each week. Get feedback from your peers and seniors to validate that work style improvement is apparent. Maintain your enthusiasm and performance. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-Ingrown-Facial-Hair | How to Prevent Ingrown Facial Hair | To prevent ingrown facial hair, wash your face every day, since ingrown hairs are more likely to occur on oily or dirty skin. You should also exfoliate regularly, which will clear away the dead skin cells that would otherwise clog your pores. After washing your face, rub in a moisturizer to keep your skin smooth, which decreases the likelihood of ingrown hairs. When you shave, wash your face immediately before beginning, since wet hair cuts more easily and irritates the skin less. Once you're ready to start, use a single blade rather than a double blade razor for a closer shave, which reduces the chance of ingrown hairs. If you're planning on waxing your face, press a warm washcloth over it first to open the pores and prevent ingrown hairs. | Wash your face every day. Ingrown hairs occur more frequently when you have dirty or oily skin, especially on your face. Wash your face every day with a mild cleanser to help prevent your pores from clogging and creating more ingrown facial hairs. Exfoliate your face regularly. Exfoliating will help clean away the dead skin cells that often end up clogging your pores and lead to more ingrown hairs. Depending on your skin type, you should be able to exfoliate your face up to three times per week. Rub an exfoliating sponge or loofah in tiny circular motions on your face using exfoliating cleanser, avoiding the sensitive skin below your eyes. Rinse your face with warm water and apply facial moisturizer that contains alpha- or beta- hydroxy acids to aid in the exfoliation process. You can make your own natural exfoliating cleanser by mixing 1 tsp (5ml) of baking soda with 1 tbsp (15ml) of liquid soap. Moisturize your face daily. This will help keep your skin smooth and encourage hair growth in the right direction. The smoother your skin is, the less likely it will be for you to get ingrown hairs. Apply moisturizers labeled as non-comedogenic to minimize clogging your skin pores. Shave your face when the hair is already wet. Wash your skin no more than five minutes prior to shaving. This will help prevent more ingrown facial hairs because moist, wet hair will cut easier with less irritation to the skin or the follicle. Dry, tough hair sometimes digs sideways or retracts back into your skin when it is pulled upward from its follicle. Choose the right kind of razor. If you want to use a regular razor instead of an electric one, use a single-blade razor instead of a double-blade razor. These kinds of razors will give you a closer shave with a smaller chance of developing ingrown facial hairs. Double-blade razors will cause the first blade to lift your hair, while the second blade cuts your hair at a deeper point. Use sharp, clean razor blades. This will give you a straighter, more consistent cut when shaving. Doing so will also help prevent future ingrown facial hairs because hair that is cut consistently in the same way with sharp, sharp blades is less likely to turn into an ingrown hair. Dull, dirty, and rusted blades may cause a bacterial infection if ingrown hairs or other cuts are already present. Rinse your blade after each shaving stroke to clean shaving foam and hair pieces from the blade. Use the right shaving gel. Apply shaving gels or shaving foams with lubricating ingredients that lack alcohol. Products that contain alcohol will dry your skin and close your skin pores. Shave each area of your skin once. This is an important step because repeating strokes in the same areas will result in shorter hairs which increase your chances of developing ingrown hairs. This is especially true regarding the delicate skin on your face. Shave methodically and carefully. This includes refraining from pulling your skin taut while shaving. This helps prevent the hairs from being cut too short. If you cut the hairs too short, they will be more likely to develop into ingrown hairs. Shave your hair in the same direction in which it grows. This will train the hair to grow straight out instead of sideways or back into the skin in addition to preventing it from being cut too short. Use downward strokes on your upper lip, cheeks and chin and use upward strokes on your neck. Use an electric razor. If you shave using an electric razor, it can help reduce the number of ingrown hairs you get on your face since an electric razor does not shave as close to the skin as regular blades. Use a warm compress. Press a warm, wet washcloth to your face before waxing or plucking. This will help open up your pores which will, in turn, prevent ingrown hairs from developing. Relax your facial muscles. This is an important step to adhere to during the moment of hair removal. If your facial muscles are tense, it will be harder to remove the individual hairs because the follicles will constrict. Perform the necessary aftercare. Apply cold water, aftershave, or witch hazel to your face immediately after hair removal. These elements will help soothe and repair your skin after plucking or waxing, especially since the skin on your face is so delicate. Wait two to three hours after removing hair to apply cream or heavy moisturizers to your face. Applying creams or heavy moisturizers immediately may clog your pores. Pluck the ingrown hair when you're able to. Ingrown hairs can lead to an infection, but at the very least they look bad and can become very tender or uncomfortable. This is especially troubling when they appear in noticeable places on your face. Ingrown hairs need to come out. Once you notice an ingrown hair, stop shaving or waxing the area at once so that the hair has an opportunity to grow for a little bit. You should never break the skin or dig into it in order to reach an ingrown hair. Instead, you should let it come to the surface on its own so you don't do more damage to your skin. The safest way to extract an ingrown hair is by pulling it out with tweezers. However, you have to wait for the hair to reach the surface on its own before you can do so. Apply a hot compress to the area a couple of times a day to encourage the hair to reach the surface. Treat the irritated skin. Sometimes the worst part about an ingrown hair is how it looks, especially when it is on your face for the whole world to see. Ingrown hairs can really irritate and damage healthy skin. Treat the damaged skin with some soothing aloe vera or a gentle moisturizer. Get antibiotics. In rare cases, you may need to go see your doctor for some antibiotics if your ingrown facial hair becomes infected. Since the ingrown hair creates an opening in your skin, it is possible for bacteria to seep into the hole and cause an infection. Whenever you have an ingrown hair, you should be vigilant in watching for signs of redness, swelling, and discomfort that last more than a few days. If the pain and swelling does not dissipate within three to four days, call your doctor and tell them about your symptoms. | Wash your face every day. Exfoliate your face regularly. Moisturize your face daily. Shave your face when the hair is already wet. Choose the right kind of razor. Use sharp, clean razor blades. Use the right shaving gel. Shave each area of your skin once. Shave methodically and carefully. Use an electric razor. Use a warm compress. Relax your facial muscles. Perform the necessary aftercare. Pluck the ingrown hair when you're able to. Treat the irritated skin. Get antibiotics. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Bend-a-Soccer-Ball | How to Bend a Soccer Ball | To bend a soccer ball with the inside of your foot, start by positioning yourself slightly to the right of your target. Place your planting foot so that it faces slightly towards the direction you want the ball to go in. Also, stick the arm on the same side as your planting foot all the way out so that it's perpendicular to your body, for balance. Next, use the inside of your foot, where the foot and the big toe meet, to hit the bottom corner of the outside of the ball. Keep your planting foot still and follow through with your kicking leg to guide the ball toward the target. | Take your approach at a slight angle from the ball. Approach the ball as you would normally, except prepare to hit the ball with the inside of your striking foot. Generally, your body alignment will not be facing the goal. If you're kicking the ball with your inside right foot, your body will be faced slightly to the right of the target. If you're kicking the ball with your inside left foot, your body will be faced slightly to the left of the target. Mind your plant foot as you begin to kick the ball. Your plant foot is the foot that you aren't kicking with, the foot that will be the anchor to your kicking foot. Plant your non-kicking foot facing slightly towards the direction of the initial bend, so that when you strike the ball with the inside of your foot, both feet are almost parallel(~.3 m) away. Place it far enough away so that you can easily hit the ball with the inside of your foot, but close enough so that you don't have to strain to get there, taking power away from your shot. Keep the hand that's on the plant side of the body out for balance. You're moving through the ball, and your body is curving slightly as it kicks the ball. Keeping your plant-side hand out and up while you kick will help add power to your shot and give you balance on the follow-through. Hit the ball with the inside of your foot. This is just where your toe ends and your foot begins. The ball will roll back along the inside of your foot. You should be striking the ball in the bottom left corner if you're shooting the ball with your right foot. Look at the ball straight on as if it were a circle and imagine a cross (+) across the center of it. For a right-footed strike, hit the bottom right quadrant of the ball. For a left-footed strike, hit the bottom left quadrant of the ball. Do not move your plant foot. This foot should still be pointing down. Keep it balanced and firm with the help of your arms. Swing your kicking leg in towards the goal after you kick. Try to bring your kicking leg across your body, so that you exaggerate the outside-inside swinging motion and are sure to follow through with your kick. Strike from under the ball to lift it. If you want lift on your ball, strike it from underneath it. There should be sufficient lift to take the ball up and over the wall. As your foot comes across and around, you create ball spin, which will make the ball bend and dip! You can increase the height at which the ball rises by leaning your shoulders back during contact. Remember to put enough spin and dip on it to bring it goal-wards again. Lean back if you want the ball to go up or lean forward if you want to curl the ball downwards. This technique can be performed using any kick with the same results. Approach the ball with a slight outside angle to your target. For a right-footed kick, this means approaching the ball and aiming just to the left of your target. Place your plant foot correctly. Aim your plant foot to the left of your target. Your plant foot is going to be farther back and farther away from the wall than you would be trying and inside-bend shot. Keep your plant foot stationary as you prepare to kick the ball and then eventually kick it. Moving your plant foot will interfere with the continuous motion of your kicking foot, leeching power from your shot. Keep the hand out on the plant side of the body for balance and power. Again, having a hand out for support and balance is important here. Your hand doesn't need to be all the way up in the air but it shouldn't be completely on the side of your body. Hit the ball with the outside of your foot. Bring your striking foot across your body as you do this. If you're putting a cross (+) on the ball and you're approaching to hit with the right foot, you're going to want to hit the bottom middle, or bottom left, of the ball. Follow through by swinging your kicking leg across your body. You do this much like you would on an inside bend kick. The motion is similar, but the results are different because you're striking the ball with the outside of your foot. Right-footed players are trying to get the ball to spin clockwise by hitting it on the outside of their foot and then moving the foot left, across their body. Left-footed players are trying to get the ball to spin counter-clockwise by hitting it on the outside of their foot and then moving the foot right, across their body. | Take your approach at a slight angle from the ball. Mind your plant foot as you begin to kick the ball. Keep the hand that's on the plant side of the body out for balance. Hit the ball with the inside of your foot. Do not move your plant foot. Swing your kicking leg in towards the goal after you kick. Strike from under the ball to lift it. Approach the ball with a slight outside angle to your target. Place your plant foot correctly. Keep the hand out on the plant side of the body for balance and power. Hit the ball with the outside of your foot. Follow through by swinging your kicking leg across your body. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Extract-Oil-from-Fruit-Peels | How to Extract Oil from Fruit Peels | To extract oil from fruit peels by cold pressing, start by washing the fruit thoroughly to remove bacteria. Next, remove the rind of the fruit with a peeler or knife. Then, use a pressing device, such as a sieve or garlic press, to squeeze the fruit peel over a jar until you see liquid drain from the peel. Allow the liquid to stand for a few days until the oil separates from the rest of the liquid, then collect the oil! | Wash the materials. This includes your hands and the fruit you will be extracting oil from. Cold pressing doesn't involve chemicals for extraction, so it's important to thoroughly wash the fruit to remove bacteria. It takes about 25 pieces of citrus fruit to produce a useful amount of oil this way. Plan ahead! Peel the fruit. Remove the rind of the fruit with a peeler or knife and place it to the side. You may also remove the rind of the fruit with your fingers if you desire, but this can cause a greater amount of pulp and other fruit material to end up in the oils, which will need to be removed later. The greatest concentration of oils in most fruit is contained in the outer layer of the rind. The lighter portion of the rind contains much less oil. You can use an electric peeler to obtain the skin of the fruit, but note that this may produce more pulp than a hand peeled method. Reuse the leftover peels. Once the fruit is peeled, you can use the leftover fruit for cooking or eating. There are a variety of uses for the leftover fruit peel, even after pressing. Rather than composting the peel, try: Keeping the peels in a small bag and hanging it somewhere to keep the room smelling zesty. The oil in orange peel, limonene, acts as a repellant for several types of insects. Toss a few peels into the garbage disposal and give them a good grinding to freshen up the smell of your sink. Press the fruit peel. Use a pressing device, such as a sieve, to squeeze the fruit peel over a jar. Heavy pressure will squeeze liquid from the peel - this liquid contains the oils you're looking for. Use a fair amount of strength when pressing, but take care not to damage or break the implement you are using. You should see a small amount of oil drain from the peel after a few seconds. Cold pressing peel is quite a bit of effort for what looks to be a fairly small amount of oil. Don't get discouraged. The oil is quite potent. A garlic press is a great way of pressing small amounts of fruit peel with ease. A mortar and pestle may also be used, though this method is a little more labor intensive and difficult. Separate the oils. Allow the liquid squeezed from the peel to stand for a few days. The oil will separate from the rest of the liquid, which can then be collected. A centrifuge can also be used to separate the oil from the rest of the liquid! A simple way of collecting the oil from the liquid is placing the liquid in the freezer. The oil will remain in its liquid form while the remainder freezes, allowing you to pour out the oil. Oil extracted this way has a small shelf life. Try to use any oil created within a 6 month period. Apply when needed. Bottle the oil that you extract from the liquid for later use. Dab a little on your skin for a fresh smell, or use some in cooking recipes that require essential oil. Remember that the oil is very concentrate – a little will go a long way. Peel your fruit and lay the rinds out to dry. Allow them to air dry until the peels are hard to the touch. This can take anywhere from a few days to up to a week, so remain patient. Avoid the use of a dehydrator or other drying mechanisms when drying the peels. This can compromise the oil stored in the peels. Cut the peels into small pieces. Once the peels are completely dry, cut the peels into small pieces. You can use a knife, vegetable dicer, or food processor to accomplish this. Take care not to over dice or process the peels however, as this can compromise the oils contained in the peels. Over diced peels will take on a liquid, minced appearance. Avoid expressing liquid from the peels prior to the distillation process. Place the peels in a jar and cover with grain alcohol. Pour enough alcohol into the jar to completely cover the peels. The alcohol should rest roughly an inch above the top of where the peels rest. Allow the jar to sit for several days. Vodka can be used for the distilling process, but may slightly affect the scent of the oil, depending on the type of vodka used. Place the jar in a location that gets plenty of sunlight to help the separation process. Shake the jar several times a day. Give the jar a shake each day to help separate the oil from the peels. Strain the liquid from the peels. After several days have passed, use a coffee filter to strain the liquid into a second jar. Place a coffee filter or cloth over the second jar, and allow all of the alcohol in the jar to evaporate. This can take up to a week or more. Oil evaporates much more slowly than water or similar types of liquids. Though oil can technically evaporate, the water will evaporate before the oil, leaving just the oil behind. Apply when needed. After the alcohol has evaporated, all that will remain is the oil. Bottle the oil for later use. Dab a little on your skin for a fresh smell, or use some in cooking recipes that require essential oil. Remember that the oil is very concentrate – a little will go a long way. Always test a small amount on your skin first in case you have a reaction to the peel oil. Skin sprayed with citrus oil should not be exposed to direct sunlight. Citrus oil is phototoxic, meaning direct sunlight can contribute to sunburn, blisters and other harmful skin conditions. | Wash the materials. Peel the fruit. Reuse the leftover peels. Press the fruit peel. Separate the oils. Apply when needed. Peel your fruit and lay the rinds out to dry. Cut the peels into small pieces. Place the peels in a jar and cover with grain alcohol. Strain the liquid from the peels. Apply when needed. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Find-Investors | How to Find Investors | To find investors, create social media pages for your business, and encourage friends and family to share them on their networks. You could also provide incentives for followers to share your page, such as discounts or a special prize. Additionally, try raising money through crowdfunding sites, like GoFundMe. Alternatively, use online resources like AngelList, which connect you with private investors and offer educational tools on how to plan your business. | Talk to friends and family. Since it can be difficult to find investors, many small business owners look to close friends and family to raise at least their initial seed money. It's easier to find investors if you've gotten your business off the ground than it is if you've only got an idea. If you have a friend or family member who is interested in any significant investment, treat it as a business transaction – not a gift. Put it in writing with a legal contract or investment agreement. Drum up interest on social media. Any social media accounts you have can be used to help you find investors. Set up business-specific pages and accounts, and encourage friends and family to connect to them and share them on their networks. Use posts not only to talk about your idea but also demonstrate the need for the product or service you want to offer. Include news and information about the neighborhood where you want your business to be located. Encourage your friends and followers to share posts about your business and help you spread the word. Provide incentives for likes or follows. When you set up dedicated social media accounts for your business, help spread the word by giving people who a reason to follow along. Contests and exclusive discounts will get more people on board. For example, if you're planning to open a coffee shop, you might offer a free cup of coffee to the first 20 people who like and share a post. Try crowdfunding sites. Many products and services lend themselves well to crowdfunding through a website such as Kickstarter or GoFundMe. Unique rewards at different levels of sponsorship can help attract micro-investors who are interested in supporting the next great idea. Crowdfunding also helps market your product or service. If you fund your project through contributions from 100 people, those are 100 people who are interested in your idea and want to see it succeed. Each of those 100 people will potentially tell their friends about your product or service. Research investors thoroughly. Especially if you're strapped for cash, you may want to jump at the first offer that comes your way. However, your investors will have a hand in your business. It's worth taking the time to get to know them. Find out as much as you can about their investment track record. If they've previously invested in other companies, see how those companies are performing today. The best investors for you will be people who have experience in your industry. For example, if you have an idea for a mobile app, it isn't necessary that your investors are computer engineers, but they should at least have a basic understanding of how your app works and what it does. Based on your research, you should be able to come up with a list of 20 or 30 investors you can focus on. Learn common investment terms. When you start talking to professional investors, you'll hear them throwing terms around that may be unfamiliar to you. Take some time to research and read about venture capital and startup investing to avoid an embarrassing mistake. Investors will be interested in the value of your company. They may refer to pre-money valuation and post-money valuation. The pre-money valuation is the agreed-upon valuation of your company before funding. The post-money valuation is the pre-money valuation plus the amount of money invested. Become familiar with rounds of investing. The first round typically is referred to as the "Seed" round. You may then proceed through A, B, and C rounds of financing. When investors fund your company, they'll receive shares of stock in your company in exchange for their investment. Read up on the types of stock you can issue so you'll understand what investors are asking for. Check out online angel investor networks. Online networks, such as AngelList, do more than connect you with private investors. These websites also have educational resources that can help you build your business plan and market your idea. Craft your profile carefully and share your page with family and friends to gain possible connections. Craft a thorough business plan. An investment is not a loan. When you pitch your idea to investors, they want to know that they will eventually make money off of their investment. Your business plan should clearly show how you intend to monetize your idea and when you expect to achieve a profit. Also make sure your start-up expenses are realistic. Investors want to know that you have a reliable budget and will be able to launch your product or service without needing additional funding. Personalize your pitch for each investor. Successful private investors may hear hundreds of pitches every week. Stand out from the competition by letting each investor know exactly why they should have a personal interest in your project. Ideally, your investors will provide not just money, but resources and expertise to help your project launch and succeed. When you're planning your pitch, think about what each specific investor could add to the project. It may help if you can demonstrate that with the assistance of a particular investor, your project would perform better than if you used anyone else. Don't be afraid to appeal to an investor's ego. Encourage them to believe that they alone could provide an immense benefit to your project. Focus on selling yourself. Selling your product or service to an investor is only part of the equation. You also must convince them that you're the person to run the project and get it off the ground. Think about why you are uniquely suited to develop the project. It needs to be something beyond the fact that you came up with the idea. Highlight related personal and professional experiences that give you insight into the project that no other person could have. Identify what makes your idea unique. Especially if you're trying to enter a relatively saturated market, you must be able to differentiate yourself from the competition. Be prepared to show potential investors what your product or service offers that your competitors don't. One way to do this is to focus on a particular niche that is relatively untapped. This could be a target location or a particular demographic. Learn to handle rejection well. When you first start looking for investors, you'll likely hear no far more often than you hear yes. Just because you weren't the right fit for a particular investor doesn't mean your idea isn't any good. If investors provide any reasons as to why they aren't willing to invest, take that feedback seriously and see if you can make any improvements in either your project or your pitch based on that. Look for a local incubator. An incubator or facilitator is a business designed to help develop and grow start-ups. Incubators are particularly common in the tech industry. Investors may take on a more hands-on, mentoring approach. In the US, check the website of the National Business Incubation Association to locate incubators near you that could possibly help you find investors. Start with local small business associations. A small business association in your area will have tips and resources to help you find investors for your business. These associations typically are nonprofit organizations, or are run by the government. In the US, look for a Small Business Development Center (SBDC) near you. Often these are housed in community colleges. The SBDC can connect you with a mentor and provide connections in your industry. Your local Chamber of Commerce will have resources for start-up businesses, and may also host events where you can meet business peers as well as potential investors. Use government funding for research and development. Especially if you're in the tech sector, you may be able to get government funding under the federal government's Small Business Innovation Research Program (SBIR). This program offers funds for technological innovation, recognizing research often is out of reach for startups. Awards follow the same development cycle as startup investment funding, with three phases or rounds of funding. To qualify for the program, your company must be located in the US and the majority of its owners must be US citizens or permanent residents. Research state and local government programs. Your state or local government may have loans or investment programs to help small businesses raise start-up capital. Many of these programs are focused on specific types of businesses that will better their communities or meet the specific needs of a struggling neighborhood. For example, if you are a woman or a minority, you may be able to join a program that provides start-up capital specifically for female-owned or minority-owned businesses. Local governments also may have investment programs that provide funds to businesses located in particular parts of town, such as depressed neighborhoods. Check into federal loans. While the federal government doesn't offer grants for business startup and development, there are a number of loans that you and your business may qualify for. These loans have low interest rates and favorable payback options. Loans frequently are available for particular groups of people who are traditionally underrepresented in their industry, including women and minorities. Development loans also may be available if you want to start your business in an area that is struggling economically, or if you want to work with people who are struggling, such as former prisoners or recovering drug addicts. | Talk to friends and family. Drum up interest on social media. Provide incentives for likes or follows. Try crowdfunding sites. Research investors thoroughly. Learn common investment terms. Check out online angel investor networks. Craft a thorough business plan. Personalize your pitch for each investor. Focus on selling yourself. Identify what makes your idea unique. Learn to handle rejection well. Look for a local incubator. Start with local small business associations. Use government funding for research and development. Research state and local government programs. Check into federal loans. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Immigrate-to-Canada-from-USA | How to Immigrate to Canada from USA | To immigrate to Canada from the USA, look into Canada's immigration programs to see if you meet the eligibility requirements, since you'll usually need to secure a job in order to move there. If you have immediate relatives living in Canada, the Family Class Sponsorship program is a good way to immigrate without worrying about having a job. After choosing the immigration program best suited to your situation, apply for a permanent visa! | Decide why you want to move there. U.S. citizens are not required to obtain any sort of visa or authorization to visit Canada, but this is not the case for immigrating to Canada. You must have permission to reside in Canada through one of several sources. You should have one of the following reasons for living in Canada: A skill that can be used in Canadian businesses A job waiting for you in Canada Relatives or friends who have nominated you for permanent residency Be an entrepreneur with a high net worth Choose a destination province. Once you have selected a valid reason for immigrating to Canada, you must choose a province to live in. Each province (which is like a state in the USA) has its own rules about immigration. They also each have their own immigration programs which you may apply for. Some provinces have a higher need for skilled workers than others, for example. Read the immigration rules of your province. After selecting your province, look on their website to determine their particular immigration rules. You must make sure that you select the proper immigration program and do all the follow-up work to become a permanent resident. For example, in British Columbia (BC), you can apply through a relative who has nominated you but you can also do an “express entry” through this nomination that expedites your permanent residency if you are a skilled worker. Determine if you fulfill the eligibility requirements. Canada has a variety of immigration programs, and each of them have their own eligibility requirements. You can take a questionnaire to determine how eligible you are on the Canadian government website. Eligibility is based on a lot of different features, such as age, nationality, if you have family members residing in Canada, your education and work experience, your income or net worth, whether or not you have a Canadian job offer, and so on. The government questionnaire asks you questions about each of these elements. Avoid things that will reduce your chances. There are particular things about your personal history that may result in a guaranteed rejection of your permanent residency application. Find out if you have any of these elements on your record before pursuing immigration to Canada. For example, applications are often automatically rejected if you have ever perpetrated a crime, have a serious health risk, are in financial trouble, or if one of your family members has already been barred from Canada. Evaluate the immigration programs. Take a close look at the immigration programs available in Canada. This is important so that you can select the program that will make it easiest for you to gain permanent residency. In other words, look at the program most suited to your situation. Look at Express Entry. Express Entry is a program for skilled workers to immigrate quickly. It is entirely internet-based, making it convenient for Canadian employers to get their new hires into the country. This program is available for anyone immigrating to Canada who has a job lined up. Determine if you are a skilled worker. Skilled Worker immigration has three levels: federal, Quebec, and provincial nominee programs (PNPs). Each program admits people with specific work qualifications or needs of the province. Federal Skilled Worker is for people who have work experience and want to live outside of Quebec. Quebec Skilled Worker is for people with work experience who want to live inside Quebec. PNPs are typically unique to each province and allow skilled workers to immigrate more quickly than other programs. Consider CEC if you have worked in Canada before. Canadian Experience Class (CEC) is a program available to U.S. citizens (and other foreign workers) currently working and living in Canada who have proven their value to society and the economy. Basically, this program is for people who have already worked in Canada as temporary foreign workers. This program is convenient for those who are already inside Canada, have been working there, and have decided to reside there permanently (longer than a year). Decide if you want to live in Quebec. Quebec Experience Class (PEQ) is unique to the Quebec province and is applicable to students and workers wishing to gain permanent residency in Quebec. It is a two-step process. This is essentially the same program as CEC, but for Quebec. Contact any friends or family. If you have immediate relatives already living in Canada, the Family Class Sponsorship program is a good way to immigrate without worrying about having a job. Although usually restricted to grandparents, parents, children, and spouses (or common law partners) , sometimes exceptions are made by the Canadian government. Some individual provinces are more lenient about what family members are allowed to immigrate. Investigate the Provincial Nominee Program's Family Sponsorship program in the province where your relative lives. Determine if you want to start a business. A program called the Start-Up Visa Program allows entrepreneurs with specific business offerings (namely that they will create jobs for Canadians) to immigrate. You don't even have to already have your business started. Simply get support for your idea and apply for the Start-Up Visa. You can find support for your business idea through Canadian investor groups and capital funds. See if anyone needs caretaking. There is also a program that allows you to immigrate if you are needed to take care of children, the elderly, or an injured person who otherwise would have no assistance. The rules on this program are somewhat strict and require a lot of paperwork. Some things you must have in place to obtain this LCP (live-in caregivers) permit include an employer assessment, a written contract, a work permit, a high school diploma, and at least 6 months of training (or one year paid work experience) as a caregiver. Pass the Canadian language test. A language test is required for immigrating to Canada. You can test for either English or French. There are two English tests you can choose from, and one French test. You must make a specific score set by the Canadian government in order to apply for permanent residency or citizenship. The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) has 5 sections: CBL (Canadian Language Benchmarks) level, reading, writing, listening, and speaking. CELPIP (Canadian English Language Proficiency Index Program) has two versions, one for permanent residency and one for citizenship. The French test is called TEF (Test d'évaluation de français) and is only available in French. Apply for a permanent visa. While you are still living in the USA, you should go ahead and apply for permanent residency in Canada. Make sure you have chosen the immigration program most suited to your situation. Give yourself enough time. It can take anywhere from 2 months to a year for applications to be approved. You may get a faster approval if you and your employer apply through the Express Entry immigration program. If you are already working in Canada and are considered a temporary foreign worker, you may gain permanent residency through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). This only applies to workers outside of Quebec. You should apply through the Express Entry system. You can apply for the Quebec Experience Class (PEQ) to work inside Quebec. You will need to check the immigration website for Canada to gather all the necessary forms. Save up. It is wise to have nest egg ready for your move to Canada, even if you are being brought in by an employer. You never know what obstacles you will face on your way to Canada, or what complications and delays may arise once you get there. Set aside money from your income in the USA while you wait for your Canadian permanent visa to be approved. Visit Canada to work or study. Before deciding to move to Canada, it is wise to visit there either through studying abroad or working as a temporary foreign worker. Not only does this allow you to become familiar with Canada and help you decide if you want to permanently relocate there, but prior work experience in the country may help your immigration process. Some jobs do not require a work permit if you are temporarily working in Canada, such as an athletic coach, clergyman, or a convention organizer. Make friends there. Even if you already have relatives waiting for you in Canada, it is smart to start making friends either before you move or as soon as you arrive. Having people you can talk to will help you minimize culture shock and homesickness. Look on Facebook for groups in the area you are trying to move to, or ask your online friends if they know anyone in the area. Apply for citizenship. Once you have lived in Canada for 4 out of 6 years after receiving your permanent residency, you may apply to be a citizen. You have to be at least 18 years old, prove that you are fluent in either English or French, be current with taxes, and declare that you intend to live in Canada permanently. You must also be present in Canada for 183 days out of each of those 4 years. You have to apply for citizenship inside Canada. Your application may be expedited if you were ever a member of the Canadian Armed Forces. | Decide why you want to move there. Choose a destination province. Read the immigration rules of your province. Determine if you fulfill the eligibility requirements. Avoid things that will reduce your chances. Evaluate the immigration programs. Look at Express Entry. Determine if you are a skilled worker. Consider CEC if you have worked in Canada before. Decide if you want to live in Quebec. Contact any friends or family. Determine if you want to start a business. See if anyone needs caretaking. Pass the Canadian language test. Apply for a permanent visa. Save up. Visit Canada to work or study. Make friends there. Apply for citizenship. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Artificially-Inseminate-a-Dog | How to Artificially Inseminate a Dog | Before artificially inseminating your dog, take it to your vet to make sure it's in good health. If so, the vet will collect the semen and examine it to make sure the sperm cells look normal. If you don't plan on using the semen right away, ask your vet to chill or freeze it. Once the female dog is ready, the vet will use a pipette to insert the semen in to the uterus. | Determine whether or not to use artificial insemination. Dog breeders use artificial insemination for a variety of reasons. Some breeds suffer from a diminished gene pool, especially if the country has a small number of breeding dogs. If the male and female dog are separated by great distances it may be cheaper to AI than to pay for transportation for the dog and their handler. Artificial insemination can also make the semen from a desirable male dog more widely available. Evaluate the male dog for suitability for breeding. Only dogs that are healthy and meet breed specifications for conformation and type should be bred. This helps assure that the offspring will be healthy and display the desired breed traits. In addition to a general health examination, a breeding soundness examination is done to make sure the male dog's reproductive tract is healthy and sound. Evaluate the female dog for suitability for breeding. Much like the male, the female dog needs to be examined to make sure she is healthy for breeding and that she meets breed standards. A female dog that is in ill health or who has reproductive problems could have problems getting pregnant, even with AI, or could suffer severe health problems due to a pregnancy. Collect the male dog's semen. Once the male dog has been deemed acceptable for breeding his semen will need to be collected. Male dogs will become aroused in the presence of a female dog in heat, which is the prime time her body emits pheromones or chemicals that excite the males. When he attempts to mount, or breed, with the female the penis is redirected into an artificial vagina into which he ejaculates. In some cases a female at the correct stage of heat is not available. Frozen cotton swabs that were wiped in the vagina of a female dog at the peak of heat can be thawed and swiped on the tail end of any dog, which causes the male dog to respond. In some cases semen can be collected and stored before a dog dies to be made available after his death; in others injury may make it impossible for a male dog to breed naturally yet he may still be able to produce semen. Have the semen evaluated. After the semen is collected, the sperm cells in it will be examined under a microscope to make sure they are normal. This means that there will be sufficient numbers, shape, and activity. Chill or freeze semen that it not used immediately. Chilled semen is used within 24 hours or else it will need to be frozen. Semen is stored in liquid nitrogen containers at subzero temperatures. This way semen can be used years later. The best success rate comes from use of fresh semen. With chilled semen the success rate drops to 59-80% and with frozen it falls to 52-60%. Make sure the female dog is in the correct stage of her estrus cycle. Unlike the male, she needs to be in the receptive stage of her heat cycle in order to breed successfully. Females typically come into heat twice a year. Each heat cycle has a preparatory proestrus stage, where the female's vulva (visible to the outside) swells and she bleeds or spots blood for seven to nine days. The uterus (womb) is being prepared to make a suitable environment for the embryos to develop into puppies. After this, the bleeding slows and she becomes receptive to breeding. This stage is called estrus. This is also called standing heat, because it is the period when the female will stand to mated with the male dog. It is only during this stage that she will be able to become pregnant. The most fertile time will be at the end or just after standing heat occurs. Veterinarians can determine the stage of heat the female dog is in by collecting swabs inside the vagina and examining the cells. The swabs will collect cells which have distinctive shapes and sizes depending on the stage of estrus. This is especially helpful in those female dogs that don't swell or bleed much. Insert the semen into the female dog's vagina. Insemination is fairly straight forward once the semen is collected and the female dog is in estrus. The female is stood on the examination table with her back legs slightly extended beyond the pelvis. A pipette is used to deposit the semen inside the vagina near the cervix. The insertion of the pipette takes special skill as the female dog's vagina is quite long. The pipette is withdrawn and discarded. Keep the dog standing after the semen is inserted. She should be kept standing for 10 minutes after depositing the semen. She should not sit or urinate, or the semen may run out. After 10 minutes she can walk around normally, but jumping and urinating should be avoided for about an hour. | Determine whether or not to use artificial insemination. Evaluate the male dog for suitability for breeding. Evaluate the female dog for suitability for breeding. Collect the male dog's semen. Have the semen evaluated. Chill or freeze semen that it not used immediately. Make sure the female dog is in the correct stage of her estrus cycle. Insert the semen into the female dog's vagina. Keep the dog standing after the semen is inserted. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Read-a-Contact-Lens-Prescription | How to Read a Contact Lens Prescription | To read a contact lens prescription, start by looking at the strength of correction, which is indicated by a minus sign for nearsightedness and a plus sign for farsightedness. Additionally, refer to OD and OS to determine the nearsightedness or farsightedness in the right and left eye. For example, if your prescription reads OD -3.50 D, it means that you have 3.5 diopeters of nearsightedness in your right eye. Then, use the base curve (BC) and diameter (DIA) to figure out the shape and size of the contacts. | Locate your prescription. When your eye doctor gives you the paperwork from your visit, she will hand you your prescription. This comes in the form of a graph or table in your eye care paperwork. Although this is the standard form, the terms on the columns or axes of the graph varies according to your doctor's preference. Make sure you are looking at the contact lens prescription, not your eyeglasses prescription. This is to ensure you understand exactly what kind of lenses you are going to get. The two tables may include similar acronyms, but the numbers may differ. Recognize the general information. The FDA requires that all contact lens prescriptions provide some basic information about the optometrist prescribing the lenses and the patient receiving them. They require the patient's name, the examination date, the issue date of the prescription, the expiration of the prescription, and the name, address, phone number, and fax number of the optometrist. The information about the lens strength must also be on the prescription as well as any special instructions or brand requirements. Understand the main terms. Each contact lens prescription lists the necessary strength for each eye. On your prescription, you may see the term oculus dexter or the abbreviation OD. OD is a Latin term for the right eye. The term oculus sinister, or OS, means left eye. If both of your eyes require the same prescription, you will see the term oculus uterque, or OU, meaning that the prescription is for both eyes. Most terms on contact lens prescriptions are measured in diopters, a unit of refractive power that is equal to the reciprocal of the focal length in meters of a lens. Diopter is often abbreviated as D. Locate the term power (PWR) or sphere (SPH). These numbers are usually the first set of numbers listed next to the OD and OS rows or columns. They indicate the strength of correction needed for that particular eye or, if OU is listed, both eyes. For example, if the field under OD reads -3.50 D, this indicates that you have 3.5 diopters of nearsightedness in your right eye. If the field under OD reads +2.00, this indicates that you have 2.00 diopters of farsightedness in the right eye. It is common for the correction to differ between the right and left eyes. If you find the term PL, which stands for Plano, it means the number is 0 and no correction is needed for that particular eye. Understand the base curve (BC). This term describes how the curvature on the inside of the lens should be. This is measured so the lens fits perfectly against your eye and fits the shape of your cornea. Unlike most of the other numbers, this number is measured in millimeters. This number typically ranges from 8 to 10. The lower the number in this column or row, the steeper the curvature of the lens will be. Find the diameter (DIA). The diameter is the measurement of a straight line through the center of the contact lens. It lets the maker of your contact lenses know how big around you need your contacts to be to fit your eye. Like the BC, the DIA is also measured in millimeters. This is a very important measurement. If it is off, your lenses can cause irritation or abrasions on your eyes. Get the right brand. In the United States, your optometrists will always indicate the brands of contacts that will best fit your needs. Once they list those brands, it is the law that the retailer who provides your contacts must supply you one of those brands and no other. Substitutions can be made for natural brands as well as private label lenses, which are those only sold by eye care professionals. Decipher a lens equation. Sometimes, your contact lens prescription can also be written in a simple equation form. The equation usually follows this order: +/- Sphere/Power +/- Cylinder x Axis , Base Curve' BC'= diameter DIA = number. For example: +2.25-1.50x110, BC=8.8 DIA=14.0. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/2c\/Read-a-Contact-Lens-Prescription-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Read-a-Contact-Lens-Prescription-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/2c\/Read-a-Contact-Lens-Prescription-Step-8-Version-2.jpg\/aid1369222-v4-728px-Read-a-Contact-Lens-Prescription-Step-8-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":332,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"525","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 you are unsure exactly how to read your lens equation, ask your doctor to translate it for you. Look for the term cylinder (CYL). There are certain numbers that do not always appear on your prescription. If you are suffering from astigmatism, which is common, you will see the added column or row for CYL. This number is the measure of the amount of astigmatism you have, measured in diopters. Most doctors use a positive number, but if a negative number is given, a lens store may need to convert to a positive number. This usually caused by an irregularly shaped cornea, but can also be caused by an irregularly shaped lens on the eye. A negative number here indicates your Myopia (nearsighted) astigmatism and a positive number means you have Hyperopia (farsighted) astigmatism. Keep in mind that US and Asian lens prescriptions use minus cylinder notation, while European lens prescriptions use plus cylinder notation. Find your axis (AXIS) number. The axis is the measurement calculated in degrees that is required to bend light to correct the irregular shape of the cornea. This is essentially the orientation needed for your CYL to work properly. This number will be a higher number, such as 090 or 160, depending on how slanted your CYL needs to be. Understand the term add power (ADD). Sometimes, it may be necessary for you to have contact lenses with bifocals in them. If this is the case, your prescription may have a column or row for ADD, which is the amount that the lens needs to be adjusted for the bifocal lenses. This term is measured in diopters. Ask your optometrist about color (COLOR). There may be a reason your prescription includes the term color. This is a field that indicates if you requested a certain kind of contact lens to enhance to color of your eyes. This can also indicate a special kind of contact, such as "cat eye" or some other eye changing quality. The special features available will differ depending on the brand you need. Ask your optometrist about your options based on your current condition. | Locate your prescription. Recognize the general information. Understand the main terms. Locate the term power (PWR) or sphere (SPH). Understand the base curve (BC). Find the diameter (DIA). Get the right brand. Decipher a lens equation. Look for the term cylinder (CYL). Find your axis (AXIS) number. Understand the term add power (ADD). Ask your optometrist about color (COLOR). |
https://www.wikihow.com/Safely-Introduce-Your-Dog-to-Water | How to Safely Introduce Your Dog to Water | To safely introduce your dog to water, get your puppy used to water early by letting it play in a container with an inch or two of water in it. Alternatively, turn on the water sprinkler in the yard on a hot day and let it play in the water. Before you introduce it to larger bodies of water, make sure your dog responds to the “come” command so you can call it to you if it gets into difficulty. Once it's between 2 and 5 months old, play games with it, like fetch, in shallow warm water so it develops a positive association with the water. If you're concerned about your dog drowning, consider putting a canine life vest on it to keep it afloat. | Train your dog to come when called. It is very important that when you put a dog in the water it will respond to your commands. A dog won't always see dangers or problems in its path in the water, so you need to be guaranteed that it will follow your command when called if you spot a hazard. This will help to assure its safety and will make its swimming time less stressful for you as well. Even if a dog is on leash while it is swimming, which is should be when it first learns, it should still be trained to come to you when you tell it to. You shouldn't have to drag it back through the water by a leash, as this is dangerous for the dog. Introduce your dog to water early. While it is important to have a dog well-trained before you take it swimming, getting your dog used to water in general should happen much earlier. Start getting your puppy used to water when it is about 8 weeks old. This is usually when you will bring a puppy home if you have gotten the puppy from a reputable breeder. Getting a young puppy used to water as a concept early will make the transition to swimming much, much easier. You should introduce your puppy to water by letting it walk around in an inch or two of water, not any deeper, while you closely supervise. Letting small puppies watch adult dogs in water can also peak their interest. This will show them that swimming is a natural part of life. Make water fun. Give your puppy a shallow bowl of water to play with or set up a sprinkler in the yard on a hot day and let it run around in it. Whatever you can do to build a positive association with water early on, do it. One reason that some dogs shy away from water is that they have a negative association with it. So, one of the best things you can do to safely introduce your dog to water is to increase their interest in it and decrease their fear of it at an early age. Establish reasonable expectations. Some dogs really are born swimmers. They take to the water immediately and look like they were born swimming. Some dogs are not. If you have a dog breed that is known for swimming, such as a Labrador retriever or a Portuguese water dog, then you can expect that the dog will become an excellent swimmer. However, if you have a dog with very short legs that is not known for it athleticism, such as a Chihuahua or a Pug, then the likelihood that it will be a great swimmer is much slimmer. If you have a dog that will probably not be a great swimmer, it's still important to introduce them to the water and make sure they can keep afloat. This is key for their safety and they may even enjoy the water, even if they are not that good at navigating it. Start in very shallow, warm water. When your dog is two to five months old, you can start to teach your dog to swim. At that age it will have the strength and endurance necessary for its first swimming lessons. Do not throw a dog that is new to water into deep, cold water and expect it to automatically swim. Instead, you need to allow the dog to go through a gradual learning process, much the way humans need to gradually learn to swim. Let your dog spend a lot of time playing and having a good time in shallow water that is at a comfortable temperature before you introduce it to deeper water. This will give it good associations with water to begin with. Spend time in shallow water playing your dog's favorite game. This could be simply running and sniffing around or it could be a game of fetch, whatever your dog loves to do. There are some dogs that are better at swimming than others. This can be about the individual dog but swimming skills also tend to fall along breed lines. Use a flotation device. If you are worried about your dog's safety, you can put a life vest on it to make sure it doesn't drown. There are a wide variety of canine flotation devices on the market that are designed to keep a dog safe while it is enjoying the water. These are usually vest-type jackets, that hook around the dog's chest and under its belly. Just like flotation devices for humans, it is important that you get one for your dog that fits it perfectly. A snug fit is important when it is keeping your dog afloat. Canine flotation devices often have a handle on the back so that you can more easily grab your dog out of the water if it is having trouble or you simply want to get it out of the water. Putting a flotation device on an older dog that is having mobility issues is also a good way to allow them to continue to enjoy the water without the fear that they will become exhausted and drown. Enter the water with your dog. Don't assume that you can tell your dog to go into the water alone and it will go. Instead, it may need some encouragement and support in the form of you going in with it. Carry a timid dog into the water and show it that you are there to help it. Hold onto the dog and let it do a few paddles with its paws while you continue to hold it. Expect to go into the water with your dog multiple times before the dog is comfortable with deep water. Hold onto the dog tightly if it is scared and don't force it to paddle without support. If you hold the dog around its midsection, it will be able to paddle with its front and back paws while still getting support from you. Be prepared for the dog to struggle. Hold onto it, preferably with a harness or flotation device, so that it doesn't get away from you if it panics. Allow the dog to swim to shore. Don't force a dog that wants to get out of the water to stay in the water. This will only make the dog more skittish of the water in the future. However, have it swim a short distance in order to get out of the water. Swimming a short distance to shore is good practice at swimming for the dog. Keep a close eye on it while it is swimming and be sure to help it if it looks like it is struggling. It is helpful to have a friend on the shore who can call the dog. If you are out in the water with the dog, your friend can call it to shore and hold up a treat, coaxing it to swim on its own. Train for short periods of time. Learning to swim can be very exhausting for a dog, as it uses a new array of muscles and a lot of calories to stay afloat. If your pup looks tired or is panting excessively, take a long break or call it a day. This amount of time your dog should swim while learning will vary, depending on your specific dog. Keep a close eye on your dog and err on the side of caution when ending your dog's swimming lessons. Work your way up to larger bodies of water. It can be very intimidating to a dog that is new to swimming to enter a large body of water, even if it is ready to doggy paddle. Instead, work your way up to a depth that your dog cannot touch the bottom of by getting your dog to enter a smaller body of water that is deep, such as a deep pond. Not being able to touch the ground when you are close to the edge, and thus close to safety, is much easier than having a long way to swim if you get into trouble. Make swimming a regular part of life. Like most skills, your dog will get better and better at swimming the more it does it. If you want to make your dog a great swimmer, perhaps because you want to use it as a hunting dog or you do a lot of activities in the water yourself, then you need to build its skills on a regular basis. Make it a habit to take your dog to a river or lake for swimming on a weekly basis while you are teaching it to swim. This regular practice will improve its skills dramatically. However, keep in mind that a dog should not be swimming in frigid waters, so you may need to keep it out of the water in the winter. Water that is too cold can give the dog hypothermia and can easily cause it to drown due to shock to its system. Keep a close eye on the dog. Don't assume that just because your dog is initially doing well in the water that it does not need supervision. All dogs that are swimming need supervision, whether it is just learning or is a skilled swimmer. A dog that is new to the water is likely to tire quickly, as it is using new muscles and is doing a new activity that takes a lot of stamina. Your dog could go from happy to being in trouble very quickly, so you need to be on the lookout for this change. Keeping control of a dog while it is learning to swim is important. This means that you should have a hold on the dog, ideally with a harness, while it tests the waters so that you can save it if it gets into trouble. | Train your dog to come when called. Introduce your dog to water early. Make water fun. Establish reasonable expectations. Start in very shallow, warm water. Use a flotation device. Enter the water with your dog. Allow the dog to swim to shore. Train for short periods of time. Work your way up to larger bodies of water. Make swimming a regular part of life. Keep a close eye on the dog. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-Game-Instructions | How to Write Game Instructions | Your game instructions will be the first thing new players read, so it's important to make them easy to understand and comprehensive. Write the instructions with short sentences and straightforward language, since it's likely they'll be read aloud in a group. Include a brief summary of how the game works and what the goal is early on so the players get an idea of the big picture. The remaining sections should follow a logical order, like having a description of the pieces first, then talking about how the play works, which moves the pieces can make, and how a player can win. Try to keep each section of the instructions short and focused to help the players understand what they have to do. However, if you feel like additional details are necessary, include a reference to an extra section nearer the end of the instructions. That way, the players get a general overview of how your game works before getting into smaller details. | Look at the instruction manual from some of your favorite games. Whether you're writing your game rules on a notepad, whiteboard, or printing in a pamphlet, take a look at how your favorite games format the instructions for inspiration and examples. Take notes of how other instructions are formatted. Notice the hierarchy of the information explained. How the structure allows you to see the big picture. When writing your own rules try to follow a similar format. Make a checklist of sections to include that you see in other instruction books. You can even emulate the style if you want. Write your instructions to be read aloud. When you write the instructions and information of your game, assume that people will be reading aloud. One person usually reads the instructions to the group. Have the tense reflect someone reading out loud during the play of the game. This means that your tense and tone should default to present tense, active voice, and be pithy, or quick. Whether you're explaining the game that you created for the first time, or someone else is explaining it with your rulebook, you want to make the text quick and easy to understand. For example, if you have a board game about two countries at war, you might explain the objective like: “You are a member of one of the two countries at war. You are assigned a role to aid your country. The goal of the game is to work together to defeat the enemy country in one of three ways: You can win by destroying the country through war, assassinating the country's leader, or being the first country to go into space.” With simple descriptions and an active voice you can easily get a good amount of information out. Players now know the objective and winning methods of the game. Use the second person. Instead of saying “When a player…” or “The player…” Try saying “When you…” as much as possible. This will help you to convey the rules of your game. The second person helps you when reading, as well as other players learning the game in the future. There are times when you don't have to use the second person. When describing what certain objects or tokens may do for a player, you can use “The player…” if it makes more sense. To avoid situations where using the second person sounds awkward, remember to try and use active voice. Instead of “The cards are shuffled.” Say “You shuffle the cards.” This active voice also gives the players strong direction of what to do. Make game terms easy to find and understand. When using a game term, such as a type of card, action, piece, etc., reference it right away. Keep it brief and to the point. If the explanation needs more depth, add a notation, then include a separate section explaining it further. For example, if you mention that one way to win is to kill the enemy's leader, state where you can find the instructions on how to do this. Add separate section that explains this in more detail. If you have room, you can briefly explain the term before continuing on. Never include a term that new players won't understand without explaining it. Always show players where to find more information on the term. Explain the concept or goal of the game. Give your players a preview and overview of how the game works. You may even want to start with a brief summary of the game or the game world's history. It should be brief and help players understand the objective that follows. For example, if your game centers on warring countries: The summary will explain why the two countries are at war. They used to be a single country, but one part rebelled. Now both countries are using all available resources to win the revolution. The game's objective is to win your side's revolution. Write your instructions in order and in context. When actually writing your game instructions in whichever format you have chosen, do it in order. Writing in order means that you follow a logical path of explaining the mechanics of the game. You may want to start with a brief summary of the game. Then include up at the top which pieces are included. Then move on to the objective, the setup, how the play operates, and what each piece or character does. After explaining how you win, you may include more sections that deeper explains objects, moves, or player types you touched on earlier. Your instructions should work like a book or story. You start with a table of contents. After that you may have a preface or forward, something that outlines your game. This can be your objective. When explaining the rules and different parts of the game's flow, do it in the order that it will happen. It should follow a beginning, middle, and end. You'll also want to include a brief section early on that details how many players can play, and the age range. Explain the setup before you explain the start of play so that players can set up the board. When the players finish reading about the setup, the next section should explain how to start playing. Following, you will have a style of play. For example, if you have a turned based game, next explain how the turns work. If the turns lead to combat, you will next explain combat and the components of that. Group like information together. Make sure that there are sections of your game instructions that are easy to understand and follow. You shouldn't start explaining how to move on your turn and then go on a tangent on what each possible outcome of every move is. Write your instructions so that players can understand how to play in the easiest way possible. Put all the ways to score points together. Explain the turns in one section. If you are explaining how a turn works and then need to explain that at the end of every turn a player draws one type of card, that's' ok. You can even explain the types of cards the player may draw. But refer the reader to a separate section that details what each card means and does. List and explain all objects in the game, individually and in depth. You may have already explained how some of your game's contents and objects work when detailing the game's rules and objectives. Use this section as an encyclopedia to further explain all objects. Go further in depth here than when you mentioned objects in earlier sections. It's crucial that the player understands what the cards, pieces, units, etc., represents. Consider drawing or sketching your pieces, even if this is just for fun, to serve as a visual aid. Separate the objects and group like ones together. Read over your game instructions. Wear the hat of someone who doesn't know anything about your game. Be honest with yourself and take note of how well you would understand these instructions. Do you not explain the objective well enough? Are you using second person and active voice consistently? Do you understand how the setup, turns, and winning work? If there are trouble spots make note of these areas and revise. Your instructions should be easy to understand so people can play your game as soon as possible. Show some examples. If your game has a turn-based structure or some form of turn-taking, show an example of how turn should go. This example should cover most if not all of the scenarios and interactions between the game elements, if possible. You may need to include multiple turns to fit all the interactions. Use notations to explain this part of the game. Add a separate section that goes into fuller detail, if needed. Consider including strategy tips. Sometimes the descriptions of the rules or how the board is setup can seem hard to understand. In order to avoid players becoming disinterested, help your players by including some tips on strategy. List any and all special scenarios that might otherwise confuse the player. Include strategic methods for winning in the scenario. This step can either be really quick and easy; or it can be the bulk of your explanation, depending on how your game works. This step is really a judgment call. But if you suspect that a certain aspect of the game might be unclear, take the time to fully explain the outcome of that scenario. Include any extras or possible game variants at the end. All the instructions and elements that you didn't cover before should be presented after the main instructions. If your game can be played alternate ways, list the alternate ways here. The main instructions explain the operation of the game. If your game includes other elements that aren't used specifically for the main game, take the time to explain those here. Format your pages so that people can easily read the instructions. No matter where you are writing your instructions, and how you will present the final ones, make sure that your pages or documents are easy to read. Formatting includes the layout and order of the instructions. But it also includes the kind of font and spacing you include. If you are typing, don't pick a crazy font that's hard to read. If you are hand-writing, write legibly. Don't clump all your instructions into block paragraphs. Use bullet points when you can. Break up the text with a visual aid if possible. Have someone read over your game instructions. Get a second pair of eyes to read your instructions and check for any errors. This person can also tell you if your instructions make sense and where to better explain things. | Look at the instruction manual from some of your favorite games. Write your instructions to be read aloud. Use the second person. Make game terms easy to find and understand. Explain the concept or goal of the game. Write your instructions in order and in context. Group like information together. List and explain all objects in the game, individually and in depth. Read over your game instructions. Show some examples. Consider including strategy tips. Include any extras or possible game variants at the end. Format your pages so that people can easily read the instructions. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Dress-for-a-Night-at-the-Casino | How to Dress for a Night at the Casino | Dressing for a night at the casino should be fairly easy if you plan ahead of time. Check the casino's website to see if they have a dress code, which will help you decide what would be appropriate to wear. For example, the casino may have a black tie policy or have a vintage feel. You could also ask the other people in your party what they plan to wear so you can pick an outfit that fits in. For a black tie evening out, wear your most formal clothes, such as a tuxedo with a white shirt and dark tie, or a floor-length gown in silk or velvet. If you're attending a less formal casino, go for a shirt and a blazer, or a cocktail dress. Some casinos may operate a dress-casual policy, which means you could go for slacks and a shirt, nice jeans with a top, or a casual dress. Remember to choose shoes that match the formality of your outfit, since some casinos will turn people away if they're wearing sneakers or less formal footwear. | Find out if the casino has a dress code. Some casinos have strict dress codes, so check before you leave--you don't want to find out that you need a suit jacket after you arrive! You can call the casino directly or go to their website. Common dress code terms include black tie, formal, semiformal, dressy casual or casual chic, and casual. If you aren't sure what these mean, don't be afraid to ask! Research the casino’s atmosphere. Find out what kind of atmosphere the casino has. The decor, presentation, and look of the casino will influence your choice of outfit. If it's got a vintage 1950s theme, you might want to try your classiest vintage look, for example. Check the website for pictures of the casino's interior to get an idea of the level of formality. Pictures of patrons or employees in suits, elegant interiors, and high-end food and drinks are all clues that the casino is more formal. If the casino presents itself as a fancy place to spend a glamorous night out, you may want to wear black tie or formal even if it isn't in the dress code. On the other hand, you may feel uncomfortable wearing a tuxedo in a casual barge casino that advertises an all-you-can-eat popcorn shrimp buffet. Decide if you want to go anywhere else that night. Think about your entire night before you choose anything. If you plan to go for a fancy dinner or cocktails that same evening, that might make your outfit a little more formal than it would have been. Also, some casinos have attached nightclubs or restaurants with more formal dress codes than the actual gaming area. Ask the other people in your party what they plan to wear. If you're going with a date or with a group of people, it's best if you all have about the same level of formality. If everybody else is going to wear black tie, you'll look very out of place if you insist on wearing khakis and a polo shirt. Talk to your party and find out what they're planning to wear. If your date or your friends plan to wear something that would be completely inappropriate (like jeans to a black-tie casino), don't be afraid to speak up! Set a clothing budget. You may already have the perfect outfit at home, but if you don't, set a budget before you start shopping. A reasonable budget will depend on your finances and on what you're planning to buy--for example, if you want to buy a tuxedo, $50 will not be enough. You can rent formalwear for men and women online or from special stores. Look for fitted clothes. The most important element of a great outfit is fit. If it doesn't fit you, it won't look good, no matter how nice it is. Always buy clothes that fit you in the shoulders and waist, and has sleeves and legs that are the right height for you. Don't worry if you're having trouble finding something perfect--you can have most clothes altered! Dress for a black-tie night out. If you're going for black tie, you'll need your very best clothes. Men should wear a black tuxedo with a white shirt--no ruffles, brightly-colored jackets, or flashy bow ties. You can wear a cummerbund in a darker, discreet color like burgundy, navy blue, or forest green. You can rent a tuxedo at any formalwear store. There is also a much more formal dress code called white tie, but it's unlikely you'll ever see it at a casino. Choose a formal or semiformal suit. Formal and semiformal outfits don't need to be as fancy as black-tie ones, but you should still make sure you look nice. Men should wear suits with ties. For semiformal, you can skip the tie, but be sure to wear a dress shirt and a blazer. Wear slacks and a dress shirt for dressy-casual casinos. If you want to wear dressy-casual or casual chic (they mean the same thing), you can be a little less formal. Men can wear khakis and dress shirts or even jeans with a sportcoat. A good guideline is to think of something you would wear to a beach wedding, someone else's graduation, or a nice lunch outing. Pick shoes that match the formality your outfit. You will need to wear black dress shoes for formal and black-tie casinos, but you can wear other colors for semiformal and dressy-casual places. Your shoes should match the main color of your suit--black shoes for a black suit, brown for a brown suit, etc. Sneakers and flip-flops will almost never be appropriate for any casino. The only exceptions would be gaming bars and possibly beachfront casinos. Choose accessories that complement your clothes. Menswear doesn't accessorize much, but the casino is a great place to try something a little out of the ordinary for you. Unless the casino has a very strict black tie dress code, you can wear jewel cufflinks, bright ties, and even bolo ties and cowboy hats to most casinos. Keep a backup outfit in mind. It's always a good idea to have a backup just in case. In the time leading up to your casino outing, you might lose or damage your clothes, go through a weight change, or simply just change your mind. Keep a backup outfit handy, or at least know where you can get a quick replacement. Make sure your clothes are fitted. If your outfit doesn't fit you, it won't look good, no matter how nice it is. Before you choose an outfit, be sure it fits in the shoulders and waist, and that the hems and sleeves are at the right height for you. Most formalwear shops have a tailor on-hand to alter clothes if they aren't perfect. Pick a black-tie gown. Black tie isn't as strict for women as it is for men, but you'll still need your very best clothes. Women should wear a floor-length gown in a formal fabric like silk, satin, or velvet--no jersey, linen, or cotton blends. You can wear pretty much any color, especially black, white, neutrals, and jewel tones. Choose a cocktail dress or pantsuit for formal or semi-formal casinos. Formal and semiformal outfits don't need to be as fancy as black-tie ones, but you should still make sure you look nice. Women can wear a cocktail dress, a tea-length dress, or even a tuxedo-style pantsuit. Black dresses are very popular for formal and semiformal events, but any color is acceptable. Casinos are a great place to be a little flashy with your formalwear. Try incorporating sequins, lamé, or beading into your clothes. Wear a sheath dress, dressy jeans, or a nice skirt to look dress-casual. If you want to wear dressy-casual or casual chic (they mean the same thing), you can be a little less formal. Women can wear a sheath dress, skirt, or even dressy jeans with a nice blouse. Dressy-casual is the same kind of clothing you would wear to a nice bar or to a daytime wedding. Pick comfortable shoes that match your outfit's formality. For black-tie, formal, and semiformal, pumps, heeled sandals, and flats made of formal fabric are all okay. If you're going for something more casual, you can wear ballet flats, boots, or strappy sandals. Flip-flops and sneakers will almost never be appropriate to wear to a casino. Be sure you can walk comfortably in your shoes before you wear them out! Choose flashy, glamorous accessories. A casino is a great place to wear jewelry and accessories you might not get to wear at similar formal events. A little glitz and glamor is expected, so have some fun with your accessories! Try wearing statement necklaces, lots of rings, and fancy hair clips. Pick out a backup outfit. It's always a good idea to have a second choice outfit in case you need it. In the time leading up to your casino outing, you might lose or damage your clothes, go through a weight change, or simply just change your mind. Press or steam your outfit. The best tuxedo in the world will look terrible if it's wrinkled and creased. Make sure your clothes are ironed, steamed, or dry-cleaned before you get ready. Check the label before you do anything, especially with formalwear--many items can't be ironed or will need a special setting. Keep your outfit hanging up until you’re ready to get dressed. After you've pressed your outfit, keep it hung neatly on its own hanger until you get dressed. Keep it in a garment bag and don't stuff it into a crowded closet. You'll have to wash and iron it all over again if it gets dusty or crumpled. Polish your shoes (optional). Most men's dress shoes and some women's shoes will need to be polished before you wear them. If you're unsure of polishing them yourself, take them to a cobbler or a high-end shoe store for treatment. If your shoes don't need polishing, make sure they're clean and free of scuffs, tears, or worn-out soles. Check for fraying, tears, or stains. If your clothes are older or you haven't worn them in awhile, check them to make sure there isn't any fraying, holes, or stains. If there are, bring them to a tailor or dry-cleaner for help fixing them, or wear your backup outfit. Make sure you've put your clothes on correctly. If you're wearing something you aren't used to, make sure you've got it on properly before you leave. Check for exposed bra straps, undone buttons and zippers, and bunched fabric. Have your date or a friend check you to make sure you look your best! New dress pants and vests almost always have the pockets sewn shut. Carefully cut them open with scissors before you go. The bottom button on a tuxedo jacket should be left undone. | Find out if the casino has a dress code. Research the casino’s atmosphere. Decide if you want to go anywhere else that night. Ask the other people in your party what they plan to wear. Set a clothing budget. Look for fitted clothes. Dress for a black-tie night out. Choose a formal or semiformal suit. Wear slacks and a dress shirt for dressy-casual casinos. Pick shoes that match the formality your outfit. Choose accessories that complement your clothes. Keep a backup outfit in mind. Make sure your clothes are fitted. Pick a black-tie gown. Choose a cocktail dress or pantsuit for formal or semi-formal casinos. Wear a sheath dress, dressy jeans, or a nice skirt to look dress-casual. Pick comfortable shoes that match your outfit's formality. Choose flashy, glamorous accessories. Pick out a backup outfit. Press or steam your outfit. Keep your outfit hanging up until you’re ready to get dressed. Polish your shoes (optional). Check for fraying, tears, or stains. Make sure you've put your clothes on correctly. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Install-Pegboard | How to Install Pegboard | Before trying to install pegboard, measure the area on the wall where you plan to install it. If you want the pegboard to fit the area exactly, buy a larger size and ask the hardware store to cut it to your measurements. Alternatively, buy smaller pegboards to install like tiles. Next, install furring strips horizontally on your wall to keep space between the pegboard and the wall to prevent wall damage. To install the pegboard, lift it into place, have someone hold it, and screw it to the furring strips. | Measure the area on your wall where you want to install the pegboard. You should know the length and width of the area before you go to the home improvement store. Buy a piece of pegboard. Pegboard is usually sold in two by four, four by four and four by eight foot pieces. If you want an exact size, buy the larger size of pegboard and ask the large home improvement store to cut it to size. Most box stores will do this free of charge or for a nominal fee. You can also install several pegboard sections in tiles along your wall. Purchase furring strips to use as a frame. Cut them to the width of your pegboard. A frame will allow you space between the wall and board to connect hangers. It will also support the pegboard and avoid damage to your wall. Find a paint color that you want to use on your pegboard. It is sold in white or brown and can be left unpainted if you choose. In order to make a camouflaged pegboard for a craft room or kitchen, paint your pegboard the same color as your walls. You can also use spray paint to create a contrasting pegboard installation. Paint the pegboard a few days ahead of time in the garage or outdoors. Painting in advance will reduce the smell of the paint. It will also mean the paint is cured before you hang anything. Use a stud finder to mark off your wall studs. If you can't find the studs and you are hanging the pegboard on drywall, install wall anchors every 16 inches so that the pegboard is adequately supported. Drilling into studs is preferable, since pegboards are often used to hang heavy tools or kitchen pots and pans. Ask a friend to help you install the furring strips. Hold them horizontally across the wall and place a level on top. Adjust until it is level, and then ask a friend to hold the strip while you drill long wood screws through the furring strips and into the studs or wall anchors. For a small pegboard, two horizontal furring strips should be adequate. For larger installations, use three or four. Drill pilot holes through the furring strips before you place them against the wall and after you level it, so that you can match the strip with the wall anchor. Raise the pegboard up to cover the framing strips. Ensure it is level and then get ready to mount it with help from a friend. Screw the pegboard into the furring strips using 3/4 inch screws with washers. Screw the pegboard in at regular intervals, such as six inches apart, in a horizontal line. Repeat with remaining furring strips to secure the pegboard to the wall. Buy a pegboard organizer kit. Make sure it matches up to the pegboard interval of the board you purchased. Pegboards are available in 1/4 and 1/8 inch (0.6 and 0.3cm) holes. Lay the hangers out on a large table. Experiment with the configuration by placing the tools, craft supplies or kitchen supplies next to the hanger. Install from the table to the pegboard to ensure the proper layout. Add additional screws and washers if your pegboard moves extensively when you install the hangers. | Measure the area on your wall where you want to install the pegboard. Buy a piece of pegboard. Purchase furring strips to use as a frame. Find a paint color that you want to use on your pegboard. Paint the pegboard a few days ahead of time in the garage or outdoors. Use a stud finder to mark off your wall studs. Ask a friend to help you install the furring strips. Raise the pegboard up to cover the framing strips. Screw the pegboard into the furring strips using 3/4 inch screws with washers. Buy a pegboard organizer kit. Lay the hangers out on a large table. Install from the table to the pegboard to ensure the proper layout. Add additional screws and washers if your pegboard moves extensively when you install the hangers. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-a-Bamboo-Shark | How to Keep a Bamboo Shark | To keep a bamboo shark, start by getting a tank that holds at least 180 gallons since bamboo sharks need a lot of space. Then, set up your tank with pumps, filters, and heaters, which will keep the water clean and warm enough for your bamboo shark. You should also line the bottom of the tank with sand and rocks, and fill it with water and aquarium salt since bamboo sharks are saltwater fish. | Purchase a large tank. The most important requirement for your new shark is that you buy a tank that is large enough. A small juvenile can be kept temporarily in a 30 gallon tank. Very soon, however, you'll need a much larger tank: 180 gallons is the minimum size for these sharks. Bamboo sharks are bottom dwellers and will rarely come up to the top of the tank. Therefore, if you are trying to choose between differently shaped tanks of similar size, choose the one with the largest bottom surface area. This will give your shark plenty of room to swim around. Round or hexagonal tanks are best, as the corners of a rectangular tank will restrict the shark's swimming motion. Place the tank in a secure area. A tank of this size will be very heavy, once filled with water, rocks, and so on. Make sure to place it somewhere you are certain can bear the weight. A full 180 gallon tank can weigh close to 2000 pounds. If you place this on an upper floor, be certain the floor can withstand the weight. You may even need to have a contractor add additional support from below, unless your tank will sit on a ground floor with no basement or crawl space. Set up pumps, filters, and heaters. To keep aquarium conditions safe and comfortable for your bamboo shark, you'll need to add several devices to your tank to keep the water clean, warm, and circulating. Sharks are carnivorous creatures that eat a lot and produce a lot of waste. It is important to have an effective filtration system to keep the water clean. Both an aquarium carbon filter and a protein skimmer are recommended. Both should be available at your aquarium store or online. A pump, such as a sump pump that keeps water circulating will help your filtration system work better. It will also help break down harmful nitrates and oxygenate the water. Your shark will also enjoy some gentle water movement. Like any aquatic animal, it's also important to keep the water temperature comfortable for your shark. A temperature of 78-82 degrees Fahrenheit is ideal for bamboo sharks. You can achieve this by purchasing an aquarium heater rated at two to three watts per gallon of tank Add rocks and sand. Bamboo sharks like lots of room to swim, but it's also good to give them some hiding places in the form of rocks and/or a small cave. Live rock (rock from the ocean that contains beneficial organisms) is a good choice, though not strictly necessary. Live rock will be available at many aquarium stores and can also be purchased online. The bottom of the tank can be lined with sand to create a closer approximation of the ocean floor. Again, this isn't strictly necessary, but recreates a more natural environment for your shark. If your rocks will be piled up in such a way that they could be knocked over, some people think it's a good idea to glue them together using non-toxic aquarium glue. The bamboo shark is strong enough to knock rocks over, and you don't want yours to be injured by falling or sliding rocks. Prepare the water. Bamboo sharks need clean salt water to live in. To create the ideal habitat for them, special preparation is required using water filters and aquarium salt. Unless your tap water is utterly pristine, you shouldn't use it in your aquarium. Ideally, you should purchase a reverse osmosis de-ionization (RODI) water filter. This will remove all impurities from the water. Likewise, ordinary salt isn't going to create a good environment for your shark. Buy a few buckets of aquarium salt. A five gallon bucket typically makes about 150 gallons of salt water. Fill the tank. Fill up the tank with your water and salt, as directed by package instructions. Start up your pump and heater. Your tank is now ready. Buy your shark. Be sure to buy from a reputable pet store. Your shark should look healthy, and should not have any wounds. The shark should not appear to be "panting" or be overly lethargic. Its eyes and skin should not have any discolorations or white spots. Sharks are prone to bacterial and parasitic infections. This can cause discoloration of the skin, frequent "yawning," and chaffing on the bottom of the tank. Be watchful for any of these behaviors before purchasing a shark. Put your shark in a large bucket. Put your shark, with the pet store or shipping water, in a bucket or other large container with plenty of extra room. Once you've brought your shark home, you can't simply dump it into the aquarium. The sudden change in chemistry between the pet store or shipping water and your aquarium water can be harmful or even fatal. Start a drip line. Slowly siphon some water out of your aquarium into the bucket using an air line or other narrow hose. Keep the water to a drip by clamping or crimping the hose. You can start a siphon by gently sucking on the hose until water begins to flow, or using an electric pump. You can also use an auto-siphon pump, a simple, inexpensive device available at any home brewing or wine making store. Dump out most of the water in the bucket. Once the water in the bucket has doubled, carefully pour most of it out, leaving just enough water to cover the shark. Fill the bucket back up. Slowly refill it again from the drip line. When the bucket is full again, you will have replaced about 95 percent of the pet store water with aquarium water. Your shark should be acclimated and you can now introduce it to the aquarium. Feed the shark. Your new bamboo shark will eat foods such as uncooked shrimp, scallops, mussels, and pieces of fresh marine fish, squid or octopus. Cut any large food into bite-sized pieces. Do not feed your shark common feeder fish such as goldfish or guppies. These freshwater fish are not a natural food for bamboo sharks. If you wish to feed your shark live food, use silversides or sand eels. Bamboo sharks only need to be fed every two or three days. Give the shark a large portion of food a few times a week. If it loses weight, increase feeding. A juvenile shark should grow, but if an adult shark shows signs of weight gain, reduce the amount of food. When you first get your shark, it may be hesitant to eat. Providing live food such as saltwater feeder shrimp and fresh cockle (in the shell) may help entice it to eat. If it takes a few days to start eating, don't be alarmed. These sharks can survive a few weeks without eating. Keep the aquarium clean. A clean aquarium is important to keep your shark healthy. Clean/replace the filters often, and change the water when necessary. Your protein skimmer will need to be emptied approximately every other day. Follow package instructions for replacement of carbon filters. When water becomes overly soiled (i.e. cloudy), you will need to change it. This will require large containers full of RODI filtered and salted water, and pumps to remove the old water while adding the new. Introduce other fish if desired. Bamboo sharks can coexist with other fish if you want to make your aquarium more interesting. Be aware, however, that small fish will probably be eaten, and any crustaceans are likely to disappear very quickly. Bamboo sharks have been kept successfully with grunts, snappers, jacks, groupers, and goatfish. | Purchase a large tank. Place the tank in a secure area. Set up pumps, filters, and heaters. Add rocks and sand. Prepare the water. Fill the tank. Buy your shark. Put your shark in a large bucket. Start a drip line. Dump out most of the water in the bucket. Fill the bucket back up. Feed the shark. Keep the aquarium clean. Introduce other fish if desired. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Set-up-Tarot-Cards | How to Set up Tarot Cards | If you've always wanted to perform a tarot card reading but don't know how, pick a tarot deck, find a relaxing spot, and get started. While the biggest difference between tarot decks is cosmetic, if you're just starting out you might want to use the Rider-Waite deck since many guides and books use this one as their reference. Once you have a deck, you'll want to choose your spread. The most common one is the 3-card spread, which requires you to separate the Major and Minor Arcana cards and shuffle both decks before beginning. You can then take the top card from the Major Arcana deck and place it face-up in front of you. Next, take the 3 top cards of the Minor Arcana deck and lay them horizontally, left to right, under the Major Arcana card. These three cards usually represent the past, present, and future, while the Major Arcana card is the one through which these others are interpreted. | Choose your tarot deck. One of the most interesting aspects of tarot cards and tarot card reading is the number of tarot decks from which to choose. By and large the differences between any two decks will be cosmetic--the pictures or the names of the cards may differ. The vast majority of tarot decks will contain 78 cards of two parts: the Major Arcana (22 cards without an affiliated suit) and the Minor Arcana (56 cards, divided into 14-card suits). Tarot decks can usually be found at bookstores or occult shops. If you're not in such a populated area, you may have to try ordering your deck online. The most common and recognizable tarot deck is the Rider-Waite deck. If you're just starting out, consider choosing the Rider-Waite; many guides and books on tarot reading will involve the Rider-Waite almost exclusively. Again, the differences you'll find between tarot decks will almost always be cosmetic ones. If you'd like to have your readings associated with a particular religion or brand of spirituality, there's most likely a tarot deck with images and names to match that association. In terms of setting up, the sort of deck you choose will make no difference, unless the deck includes any explicit instructions to do otherwise than recommended here. It's in reading that deck choice will really matter (a reason why the Rider-Waite is recommended to first-timers). You'll draw different implications from decks which use differing images and names for their cards. Don't be afraid to pick up and try multiple decks. Since they're so interchangeable, there's little risk of confusing yourself or mixing rules. Ultimately the choice is totally yours. Whether you intend to delve into divination or just want to entertain your friends, the choice of tarot deck is an entirely personal one. Prepare your deck. While the specifics of preparation will eventually depend on the “spread” (method of reading) you choose to use, most will involve shuffling your deck before beginning. Even before that, take time to look over the cards in your deck, recognizing which are Major and which are Minor Arcana. Be sure to remove any extra cards from the deck (blank or instructional cards) before setting your deck down to begin. While not every spread will demand the separation of the Major and Minor Arcana, you may want to anyway, if only to get a better sense of the different cards. Regardless of whether or not you'll need to separate the Major/Minor Arcana, there's no specific amount or type of shuffling you need to do. Do it as much (or as little) as you'd like. Find a suitable reading surface. The space required for a tarot reading will also depend on the spread which you eventually decide to use. Some spreads only call for a small surface in which to place a handful of cards, others call for significantly more space to form a circle of several cards. Do your best to match your reading surface to the purpose for a reading. If it's a personal reading, find somewhere relaxing and comfortable where you can be at ease. If you're reading for friends or to entertain, find a place with some space. Again, there's no specific right or wrong when choosing a place to perform a reading. There's also no rule saying it needs to be the same place twice. Don't be afraid to move around if that's what is comfortable for you. Use a three card spread. Traditionally the most common spread as well as the one most suggested for use by beginners, the three card spread is a simple one. This spread will require that you separate the Major and Minor Arcana cards from one another. Shuffle both decks before beginning (again, there's no particular amount of shuffling you need to do). There are two variants to the three card spread, one including a Major Arcana card, and one which doesn't. The included Major Arcana card is meant to aid interpretation, so consider including it for your first tries. For some foresight into reading, the single Major Arcana card which is included in the three card spread is a means of interpretation. Some guides including the three card spread choose to see the Major Arcana card included as representation of the person being read, others have it as a representation of the situation or question at hand. Not including the Major Arcana deck will make for a more stripped-down reading with a more narrow range of possible interpretation. If you are including a Major Arcana card, take the top card from the now-shuffled Major Arcana deck and place it face-up in front you. Then, take the three top cards of the Minor Arcana deck and lay them horizontally, left to right, underneath the Major Arcana card just placed. While the reading of the three card spread will differ depending on how you learn to read tarot, the three Minor Arcana cards will usually represent past, present, and future (in the order, from left to right). If you included a Major Arcana card, it will be the card through which the others are interpreted. Try a five card spread. More refined than the three card spread, the five card spread is meant to inform on a specific course of action. Whereas the three card spread concerns the subject's general situation, you'll want to try the five card spread when the problem at hand can be summed as “what should I do?” This spread doesn't separate the two Arcana types. Keep them shuffled together in one deck. Drawing from the top of the deck, place the first card in front of you (a card will be added on each of its four sides). This card will represent the present. The second card goes to the left of the first, and represents the past and its effect on the present. The third will go to the right, and represents the future. The fourth card will go below the first, and represents the reason for asking the question at issue. The fifth goes above the first, and represents the potential outcomes of the situation. Use an ellipse spread. This spread will form a sort of crescent, or curve, of seven cards. Not quite as general as the three card spread but not as specific as the five card spread, the ellipse is best for interpreting any direct question (whether yes/no or otherwise). Like the five card spread, the ellipse doesn't separate the minor and major Arcana, Keep them shuffled in one deck. From the top of the deck, place the first card to the far left of your playing surface. This card represents the past and its influence on the question. To the right of the first card and slightly lower on the table (closer to you) place the second card. This will represent the present. The third card will also go to the right and slightly lower, and it represents the concerns of the future. Again to the right and lower, place the fourth card which will be the center of the ellipse (the cards will be placed higher up now). It represents what to do in the current situation. Now to the right and higher on the table, place the fifth card. It will represent external forces affecting the situation. The sixth card will follow the pattern and it will represent the hopes and fears of the one being read for. The last card will be placed at the far right, completing the ellipse. It represents the ultimate outcome of this situation. Try a celtic cross spread. A bit more involved, the celtic cross will take up more space than the three card spread, as it uses ten cards placed into a large pattern. It is a well-known spread. Though the method of interpretation will differ depending on how you learn to read tarot, the celtic cross is designed to answer specific questions. This spread does not require the separation of the Major/Minor Arcana, so combine both sets if separate, and shuffle well. The celtic cross is formed by two sections, one circle of six cards and one “staff” of four. Begin by placing the first card in front of you, and then the second card on top of that one, laying lengthwise. These two cards will represent the present and the challenges or obstacles faced in the present. The next card will be placed to the right of the two just placed, and the fourth card will be placed underneath the same two (both cards placed straight up). The card to the right represents the distant past, and the card underneath signifies the recent past. The fifth card placed will be placed above the central two cards, and the sixth will be placed to the left. The fifth one placed will represent the optimal outcome of the question, and the sixth represents the immediate future. To form the “staff” at the right of circle just formed, place four cards in a vertical row, starting at the bottom. The bottom-most card (the seventh) will represent the factors affecting the question at hand, the next card up (the eighth) represents external influences on the question. The ninth represents the asker's hopes and fear, and the tenth and final card represents the eventual outcome of the question. Because this guide only outlines how to set up tarot cards, any resources you use to learn to read may offer alternate methods of reading the celtic cross. Invent your own spread. Because tarot is so personal and representative of the reader and the person being read for, there's no “wrong” spread to use for a reading. You may feel existing spreads don't provide the right amount of representative cards or the right variety of representation. Feel free to try any number of variations on old or new spreads you find. Try experimenting with existing spreads by including or separating Major and Minor Arcana cards before placing your spread. Listen to your intuition as you lay your cards out, and visualize how they feel. Set an intention for each card and listen to what that placement means. Tarot doesn't have to be rigid, it can be creative and fun if you allow your imagination the freedom to create. | Choose your tarot deck. Prepare your deck. Find a suitable reading surface. Use a three card spread. Try a five card spread. Use an ellipse spread. Try a celtic cross spread. Invent your own spread. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Save-Money-on-Rabbit-Care | How to Save Money on Rabbit Care | To save money on rabbit care, shop around online for the best prices on food. Alternatively, buy your rabbit's food in bulk to save money, especially if you have multiple rabbits who will be able to eat the food before it spoils. Additionally, look into buying your bulk supplies, like timothy hay, from wholesale suppliers, which will be cheaper than using a pet store. When it comes to your rabbits habitat, build your own hutch or cage instead of buying one premade. You can also save on veterinary care by contacting your local veterinary school and asking if they offer low-cost clinics. | Compare prices. Don't just buy your rabbit's food at the pet store closest to you. If you want to save some money, you should compare prices at various stores in your city and from online suppliers. If you can easily get food at a cheaper price, then it is worth the effort to shop around. When shopping online, remember to take shipping charges into consideration when comparing prices. The list price may be lower than at your local store, but shipping costs may increase the overall cost. Use coupons. There are mailing lists and email lists that will send you coupons for rabbit food and supplies. If you have a food that you always feed to your rabbit, consider getting on the mailing list of that company. They may send you coupons or offers for discounts. Depending on where you buy your rabbit food, sometimes coupons can be doubled or increased with a combination of manufacture and store coupons. Research your stores coupon policies and use them to your financial benefit. Buy food in bulk. This is a particularly good idea if you have multiple rabbits that eat a lot. While buying in bulk does require room for food storage, and it can result in stale or spoiled food if it is not eaten fast enough, in the right situation it can save you a lot of money. Try to buy a bulk package of separate, smaller bags of food. Buying one large bag of food that you plan to use over a long period of time can lessen its overall quality, as its vitamin content will start to decrease once the bag is opened. Even if you only have one rabbit, buying a larger bag of pellets is always cheaper than buying a really small one. Buy the biggest bag you can, being sure that you will use all the food before it expires or gets stale. This will take some figuring out, estimating how much food your rabbit eats and how long food lasts. Don't buy low-quality food. It may seem like common sense to save money by buying your rabbit cheap food. However, cheaper food is often low quality food, meaning that it will not give your rabbit proper nutrition. Cheap food often contains fillers and ingredients that are not good for your rabbit, so you are basically paying for junk food. Avoid giving your rabbit food that does not give it proper nutrition because it will cost you more in the long run in veterinary bills and medication. Consider high-quality food an investment in your rabbit's future health. Not to mention that your goal should always be to keep your rabbit healthy and well fed. Build your own hutch or cage. Buying a commercially made rabbit hutch or cage can be expensive. Instead, find plans online and build your own. Depending on the specific plans, you will only need basic carpentry tools and supplies that can be bought at your local home improvement store. When you don't pay for a commercially made hutch, and you build one instead, you are basically eliminating paying for labor. Instead, you are doing the labor of building the hutch or cage yourself. Buy products wherever they are cheapest. Not all supplies for a rabbit need to be bought from a pet or farm supplier. Instead, find products that can be used for a variety of purposes at stores that are not just for pets. For example, cleaning supplies, such as white vinegar, can be bought at any store and they are often cheapest at a big box or discount store. Vegetables, which should be included daily in your rabbit's diet, can be bought from a wide variety of stores. For products that are commonplace, such as white vinegar, be willing to buy generic brands. Be careful, however, about buying generic if the products will actually be of poor quality. Buy supplies in bulk. More so than with food, supplies for a rabbit can often be bought in bulk. You can buy supplies through a wholesaler in bulk, paying way less than you would at a pet supply store. This can be done easily if you buy through a wholesaler already, for instance if you buy farm supplies already you can buy your timothy hay through that same wholesaler. Try going in on supplies with other bunny owners. If you can't justify buying in bulk for just one rabbit, search for others that own rabbits and are also looking to save money. Buying through a wholesale supplier cuts out the middle man, making products cheaper because they are not marked up by an additional business. Give your rabbit preventative care. While it may seem counter intuitive, spending money on preventative veterinary care can save you a lot of money in the long run. Get your rabbit regular checkups so that any medical issues can be caught before they become serious issues. This will hopefully save you the cost of expensive surgery or veterinary care in the future. For example, having your rabbit's teeth checked regularly will reduce the risk of overgrown teeth, which is a serious health problem for rabbits as it impacts their ability to eat properly. Take your rabbit to a veterinary school for treatment. If your town or city has a veterinary school, they may give treatment at a reduced rate at a low-cost clinic. Call the school in your area to see if they do low-cost appointments or search online to see if one is nearby. Be sure to take your rabbit to an accredited school that gives students proper training and supervision when treating patients. Apply for financial help with veterinary costs. If you are in a financial situation in which you cannot afford to get your rabbit veterinary care, there are some organizations that may help you by offsetting the cost. Search online for these organizations, either through the website of a local or national organization that works to help animals. | Compare prices. Use coupons. Buy food in bulk. Don't buy low-quality food. Build your own hutch or cage. Buy products wherever they are cheapest. Buy supplies in bulk. Give your rabbit preventative care. Take your rabbit to a veterinary school for treatment. Apply for financial help with veterinary costs. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Propagate-Daffodils | How to Propagate Daffodils | To propagate daffodils, use plants you already have to create duplicates! Cut back your daffodils in the summer, dig up the bulbs, and cut each bulb into 6-8 sections. Next, bury them in moist sand and leave them in a cool, dark spot until fall. When you're ready to plant, dig up the sections and look for tiny bulblets growing off the main bulb. Cut these off and plant them separately to grow new plants, or plant the whole bulb and let the bulblets multiply for use during the next growing cycle. | Think about trying asexual propagation. Asexual propagation means duplicating the exact plant that grew the year before. When choosing buds to use for this method remember to choose those that performed the best in your area, so that only those characteristics will be carried forward to the next year. To begin, wait until the plant has finished its flowering cycle and the leaves of the plant begin to die back and turn yellow. This must be done in the summer to allow enough time for new growth before planting in the fall. Cut back the daffodils. Cut the leaves of the daffodil plant back to the ground, leaving a few inches behind. Remove any mulch, rocks, or landscaping materials that you do not want worked into the soil from the area. Remove the bulbs from the ground. Dig around the area and lift the daffodils with a turning fork. Remove the bulbs from the bed and lay them aside. On the bulbs should be small offsets that are growing from bulblets or small bulbs on the stem, shoots, and scales. These bulblets will produce new plants and can be immediately be returned to the soil, they will grow slowly and produce new flowers one to two years after being planted -- so plant them with large parent bulbs for continuous growth. You will then have to encourage growth. This can be done with three different methods. Understand that you will need to encourage growth. To encourage more bulblet growth, you need to treat the large bulb, or mother bulb with a method to encourage growth. To do this you'll need to mimic the natural trauma the plant might experience to encourage it to regrow it's main bulbs. Cut bulbs into sections. The first method is simple: take the bulb and place it on a cutting board. Sterilize a large knife and cut each bulb into sections like a pie — 6 to 8 sections per a bulb will suffice. Dust the cuts with an antifungal powder and store in moist sand in a cool dark location until the cool fall months arrive. Try coring the bulb. The second method is to core or scoop out the center of the bulb (much like scooping out a pumpkin). Once scooped or cored, powder with fungicide and place in a cool location as before. Consider making three deep cuts in the bulb. Lastly, you can score the bulb by making 3 deep v-shaped cuts across the top of the bulb, much like the first step but this time you don't cut through the bulb. Again, dust the bulb and place in a cool location. Check your bulbs often. During the dormant period while your plants are in a cool location, check them at least every 2 weeks. Remove any part of the bulb that is black or off colored. Check for foul smells and remove any diseased or damaged pieces. If the bulbs are dry to the touch mist them with a spray bottle and place them back into the moist soil. Inspect your bulbs before planting them back in the ground. After the cool months arrive, take out the bulbs and give them a final inspection. Throw away any shriveled, black, mushy, or bad smelling bulbs. Also you'll want to toss any bulbs that didn't produce bulblets while in storage. Re-plant the bulbs. Place the bulbs back into the ground and cover them. They should bloom in the spring and when dug up the next year will have 20-30 bulblets growing from the sides. Know that sexual propagation exists. Propagating daffodils is largely a process of trial and error, therefore it's best to start with a large number of bulbs and to try all types of propagation before choosing a single method. The first and simplest is sexual propagation, so called because it requires two plants to work. Consider trying sexual propagation. Despite it's name, sexual propagation requires very little active involvement in the actual propagation. You simply need to rely on natural agents of pollination such as bees, pollen, and the wind to do their job and collect seeds from the daffodil plants after blooms die back and a large seed pod appears. Save the seed and plant it in a protected area such as a greenhouse or indoors. The seed will generate a young bulb which can be transferred to another location to produce a daffodil. This method is best for those who, for whatever reason, were unable to work the soil to dig up the remaining bulbs. This process — while simple — is timely and will be unnecessary if the bulbs can be retrieved. | Think about trying asexual propagation. Cut back the daffodils. Remove the bulbs from the ground. Understand that you will need to encourage growth. Cut bulbs into sections. Try coring the bulb. Consider making three deep cuts in the bulb. Check your bulbs often. Inspect your bulbs before planting them back in the ground. Re-plant the bulbs. Know that sexual propagation exists. Consider trying sexual propagation. Save the seed and plant it in a protected area such as a greenhouse or indoors. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Collage | How to Make a Collage | To make a digital collage, look up a free photo editing website online. Or, you can download a free program, like Adobe Spark, and make your collage using that. You can even use a word processor, like Microsoft Word, if you're just looking to make a simple collage. For more design options, you might want to use a paid photo editing program, like Photoshop, instead. Whichever program you use, just upload your photos and use the design features to arrange the photos in your desired layout! | Come up with a central design or theme for the collage. A collage can be about anything you want. Paper gives you no shortage of different options, so it's about whatever sparks your creativity. Perhaps you feel like collecting pictures of your favorite actor or want to make a message out of words cut from magazines. You could also arrange old photos to make a collage about your family, for instance. There aren't many limits to what you can do. For example, you could cut out small pieces of paper and arrange them so they form a bigger image. One option is to find an image that really speaks to you and design the rest of the collage around it. Collect pictures and other images to make the collage. There are many different inexpensive and accessible sources you can use to find images. Flip through old magazines, newspapers, and even picture books for anything that inspires you. Try stashing your favorite images in a shoebox until you're ready to use them. Search through magazines and newsprint for cut-outs. Newsprint adds a unique texture to a collage, but the ink may rub off on your fingers sometimes. Use photographs to capture a retro feel, but be careful about what you use. Make copies of your favorites to cut up instead of the originals. For something unique, find some old scraps of wallpaper. You can often get free sample swatches from home improvement stores and other places that sell wallpaper. Select a sturdy piece of paper for the base of the collage. Choose something thick to serve as a background for your collage. Thicker paper is less likely to fall apart after you add glue to it. Stick with a white background in order to avoid color contrasts with any pictures you plan on using. Some background materials to consider include cardboard, cardstock, construction paper, and canvas. Anything thick and flat usually holds up well. You could even use something like a picture frame. Skip glossy paper like watercolor art paper. The material is more expensive and doesn't hold up under glue as well. Cut out the images to fit in your collage. The way you cut out pictures affects how they look in the collage. Most of the time, you will end up cutting out the entire image without leaving space around it. Some images have borders you can save to add effects. You could also cut an image in a unique way to highlight certain parts of it. For example, you might cut a hole in a picture to expose the paper or another image placed underneath it. Lay out your images on the paper without gluing them. Try placing your main image in the center, then filling in the rest of the paper with other material. Build around each scrap you add to expand on the theme you chose. Plan out your final design, since you won't be able to remove the images once you glue them in place! Wait until you're satisfied with your design before you start gluing anything to the page. This will also give you extra time to find new materials in case you change your mind. Add embellishments like ribbons to make the collage more colorful. While embellishments aren't essential, you can add plenty of unique items to your collage if you wish. Feathers, ribbons, and fabric are a few items you could use. Lay them around the images, matching them with your collage's theme or using them for additional decorations. Look for items around your home or take a walk through a nearby craft store. You are bound to find tons of interesting things to fit onto your collage! You could draw an animal on the paper and fill it in with paper or stamps. Another option is to create a mosaic out of small cuts of paper. Glue material onto the paper using white glue. Start with the background and work forward. Spread a little bit of an ordinary store-bought glue or glue stick on the back of each image as you press it onto the paper. This type of glue isn't visible on the collage as long as you use it in small quantities. For heavier decorations, you may need to switch to a craft glue to pin them to the paper. Switch to a thick craft glue in order to secure embellishments like heavy beads and buttons. Look for some bottles of glue or rubber cement at your local craft store. Remember that not every piece has to be glued flat. Try crumpling or folding decorations to give your collage some extra flair. Let the collage dry overnight to settle the glue. Since your collage probably contains several layers of glue, it needs plenty of time to dry. Come back the next day and take a look at your work. If the paper is dry and the decorations stay in place, your collage is set and ready to be put on display. For a small collage, an hour is often enough drying time. If you think the glue still looks wet, give it more drying time to be sure. If you made a large collage, point a fan at it. The air blown on a low setting encourages the glue to dry a little faster. Pick a central theme for your collage. Photo collages are usually fun and commemorative. You could choose a theme like your family, your pets, a trip you took, or something you like. Many photo collages come from personal experiences using photos you took, but you don't have to make yours that way. You could make something cool using random images you found online. For example, you might make a photo collage about puppies. Everyone loves looking at pictures of puppies. All you have to do is track down pictures you like and paste them together. Choose an easy-to-use photo editing program like word processor. Edit and combine photos using one of the many different editing programs available. For the best result, stick with a basic program like Word if you're making the collage on your computer. You could also try uploading pictures to online websites like Canva or Shutterfly. There are also apps you can download on your phone for a quick way to make your own collage. You could work with a photo editing program like Photoshop if you have it and know how to use it. Collect photos and images to use in your collage. Search around online for cool things to put on your collage. You could also scan in old photos, fabric swatches, magazine clippings, or other items you would normally use on a paper collage. Use your collection as a source of inspiration for your art. Visit your favorite social media site for posts you could save for your project.. Also, search for photos of themes you like, whether that's cupcakes, video games, cars, or something else that inspires you. Save online images by right-clicking on them and selecting the “save as” option. Choose 5 to 7 images to develop a collage theme. If you don't have an assigned theme already, think of what you want your finished collage to display. You might have a specific idea, image, or pattern that inspires you. Build around it to give your collage some meaning. Find images that share colors, shapes, or patterns to make your collage a consistent whole. While you can use more photos than this, adding too many may make the collage feel crowded. Using too few makes it feel empty. For example, you might select a series of pictures from a trip you took recently. Select pictures that show off your trip, what you saw, and the people who live there. Alter the images using shaping and coloring tools. Track the images down on your computer. Right click on them or drag them into your editing program to open them. Chances are the pictures need a little work to make them mesh well. When you open them, you will see options to change the sizing and coloring to until you're happy with the way they look. Use the resizing and crop tools , for example, to cut the image down to a manageable size. Change the colors of the images to make your collage unique. For example, make photos look faded and grey to contrast them with bright text or images. Change the resolution of all the images to match one another. All your images look different because of resolution differences. To change the resolution, click on the file option on your editor's taskbar. In Word, the resolution option is under the “Advanced” and “Image Size and Quality” options. This will change the resolution of any images you have selected. Lower-resolution pictures tend to look blurry, but this depends on the size of the image and where you plan on displaying it. If you plan on posting your collage online, consider setting the images to a resolution of 72 pixels per inch (ppi). If you plan on printing it, set the resolution to 300 ppi. Include text and other features if you wish to customize your collage. This part is optional, but if you have space for extra design work, mess around with the editor. Clicking the “Insert” button in Word allows you to add text boxes, image borders, background colors, and other design elements. Make these new features fit in with the images to create an unforgettable collage. For example, add a title to your collage. You could let the pictures speak for themselves, but the title could add flair. You might add a title to a traveling collage to tell a viewer where you went and when you took the pictures. Save the collage to post or print it. Click the save button often to keep your hard work safe in case your computer crashes! When you're done editing, display your collage with pride if you wish. Go online, such as onto social media, and post your work for others to see. Otherwise, print it using the print feature on the editor to display it around your home. The printing paper you choose affects the final appearance of your collage. Choose a high-gloss paper to give it a shiny sheen. Use a matte-style paper to give it a dimmer, less colorful look. Pick a natural theme for your collage. Since you're using materials like plants for this collage, make it nature-themed. You could design a landscape or seascape by adding different things you find, from sand to shells and leaves. This is the easiest way to incorporate found things into a collage, but it don't let your creativity be limited. You don't even have to have a theme if you don't want one. You could arrange cool things on a page. Most collages, however, have themes to make them look more complete. Choose cardstock or another solid paper for a base. The base paper, the background for your collage, has to be strong to hold up the sand you add to it. Pick something thick and sturdy at a craft store. Cardboard and construction paper are a few other materials you might choose. Regular printer paper is not a good choice if you plan on gluing heavy items. If it feels thin, expect it to be too flimsy for your collage. Sketch a design onto paper using a pencil. Draw the scene you wish to create with your collage. In particular, outline any areas you plan on covering with found items. This will help you place them until you're ready to glue them later. For example, if you're drawing a seascape, sketch the sand bed at the bottom of the page. Then, outline where you plan on making fish or adding details like shells. Simpler designs are better for small kids. If you don't have a specific design in mind, let them have fun drawing whatever they like. Find shells and other items to add to your collage. Sand is a great touch, but you don't have to stop there. Customize your collage with all sorts of items. Shells and plants are a few things you can find to make your art more unique. Match the material to the theme of your collage in order to make it stand out. Some examples of items to include are seashells, insect shells, flowers, leaves, and seeds. Many of these items are available for purchase at craft supply stores, but take a walk around your neighborhood. You may find something unique that gives your collage a special twist. Dry your items off with paper towels or heat before using them. If your items aren't dry, they may rot or collect mildew. Preserve your collage by wiping everything dry with a paper towel, then baking things like flowers that would normally decay. For example, lay plants on a paper towel and heat them in the microwave for 1 to 5 minutes. Another option is to put them on a drying rack in an oven set to 150 °F (66 °C) and keep them in for about 2 hours. Pressing is another way to preserve plants. Keep them weighed down between a piece of paper and a heavy book for at least 7 days. Objects like shells and rocks don't really need to be heat-dried since they won't rot. However, you can wash shells by boiling them in water for about 5 minutes, then soaking them for a week in clean, cold water. Brush a craft or PVC glue over the outlined area. Select a clean glue brush and a bottle of your favorite craft glue. For loose material like sand, add the glue in an even layer on the page. Otherwise, you can add some of the glue directly to bigger items like shells and plants. If you're making something large and intricate, do this in small sections to prevent the glue from drying out before you add your decorations. Regular glue sticks and glue are usually too weak to support found items. Sprinkle sand onto the collage if you are using any. Open up a bag of craft sand and begin pouring it onto the paper to give your collage some style. Dip your hand in or use a small paper cup to scatter the sand. It will stick to any spots where you added glue. When you're done, tip the paper over to brush away the excess. This part can get a little messy, so keep a paper plate underneath your collage to collect the sand. Try to add small amounts of sand at a time to avoid using too much of it. Secure the remaining items in place to complete the collage. For an easy way to attach solid objects like shells to your project, break out a hot glue gun. Spread a bead of the glue on your item, then quickly press it to the paper before it dries. You could also use the same craft or PVC glue you used if you customized the background. Remember to hold your collage's decorations in place for at least a minute to stick them in place. Wood glue is great for preserving plants used in collages. Brush it over the plant to create a “glaze” capable of keeping it fresh and shiny for years. Allow the glue to dry overnight before handling the collage. Set your collage aside in an open spot on a countertop. Wait for it to feel dry to the touch before attempting to move it. Once it's done, place your collage on display or take photos of it to show it off! | Come up with a central design or theme for the collage. Collect pictures and other images to make the collage. Select a sturdy piece of paper for the base of the collage. Cut out the images to fit in your collage. Lay out your images on the paper without gluing them. Add embellishments like ribbons to make the collage more colorful. Glue material onto the paper using white glue. Let the collage dry overnight to settle the glue. Pick a central theme for your collage. Choose an easy-to-use photo editing program like word processor. Collect photos and images to use in your collage. Choose 5 to 7 images to develop a collage theme. Alter the images using shaping and coloring tools. Change the resolution of all the images to match one another. Include text and other features if you wish to customize your collage. Save the collage to post or print it. Pick a natural theme for your collage. Choose cardstock or another solid paper for a base. Sketch a design onto paper using a pencil. Find shells and other items to add to your collage. Dry your items off with paper towels or heat before using them. Brush a craft or PVC glue over the outlined area. Sprinkle sand onto the collage if you are using any. Secure the remaining items in place to complete the collage. Allow the glue to dry overnight before handling the collage. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Garlic-Chicken-Alfredo | How to Make Garlic Chicken Alfredo | To make garlic chicken alfredo, season the chicken with salt and pepper and cook it in a covered pan for about 10 minutes. When it's finished, remove the chicken from the heat and leave it covered. Cook your fettucini just a little less than you're directed on the package, and drain it when it's finished. In the meantime, saute minced garlic in a hot skillet for about 1 minute, then add heavy cream to the skillet and bring it to a boil. Add grated Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and a generous amount of black pepper, then combine the sauce and pasta and top with the cooked chicken. | Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Heat until the oil shimmers or barely begins to smoke. You can substitute butter for a richer flavor. Season the chicken. Sprinkle boneless or deboned chicken breasts with black pepper and salt. Cook chicken breasts for one minute on each side. Add the chicken breasts to the hot skillet. Cook briefly over medium heat, until just beginning to turn golden on each side. Cover and cook for ten minutes. Cover the skillet with a tight lid. Reduce heat to low. Set a timer for 10 minutes and leave the chicken to cook. Remove from heat and leave covered. Leave the chicken covered and in the pan for about another ten minutes. This will keep the chicken moist and warm while you make the rest of the dish. Get started on the pasta as soon as you remove the pan from heat. Bring salted water to a boil. In a separate, large pot, put two quarts (two liters) water over high heat, plus a generous pinch of salt. This is less water than usual for this amount of pasta. This will leave us with an extra starchy water base to start our alfredo sauce. Add more water if you plan on making a more traditional, extra-rich sauce. Cook pasta until slightly underdone. Check the package instructions for recommended cooking time. Boil the pasta for a minute or two less than the label suggests. Start on the sauce while you wait. Set a timer for the pasta so you don't forget to check it. If using fresh pasta instead of dried, cook for about 45 seconds instead, or until al dente. Fettuccine is the original pasta choice for this dish, but you can use any type. The dish is only a few decades old, so your Italian grandmother won't roll in her grave too vigorously. Save some of the water before draining. If you want to make the lighter version of this dish, save 2 cups (480 mL) of the pasta water. Drain the pasta and set aside in a large bowl. Check on the chicken. After the chicken has been off the heat for ten minutes, remove the lid. Make sure the chicken is cooked all the way through, with no pink meat visible. Set the chicken aside. Heat minced garlic in the skillet. Peel and chop the garlic. Toss it in the hot skillet. Stir it while cooking for about one minute, or until it releases its aroma. Set it aside. Heat a little more olive oil or butter first if the pan is dry. Heat and thicken a cream sauce. While Alfredo sauce began as just butter and cheese, the most common version nowadays uses heavy cream. Using one of the two recipes below, bring the mixture to a boil, stirring constantly. Extra-rich: 2 cups (480 mL) heavy cream, added directly to the skillet. Light (ish): 1 cup (240 mL) heavy cream, 2 large egg yolks. Heat gradually in a cold pan or temper the egg to avoid scrambling the egg. Add cheese and black pepper. The cheese is the centerpiece of the dish. Grated or shredded Parmigiano Reggiano will make a much more flavorful sauce than powdered parmesan. Also add a generous amount of black pepper. Stir until the cheese is melted and well-mixed. Optionally, save ⅓ of the cheese to sprinkle on top of the dish just before serving. Add reserved pasta water (light version only). If you went with the light recipe containing eggs, gradually add the 2 cups (480 mL) leftover pasta water. Whisk constantly as you do so. This starchy water will thicken the sauce, making up for the lesser amount of cream. Bring to a boil again and cook for about 45 seconds. Stir constantly to break apart lumps. Combine sauce and pasta. Add the pasta to the sauce and toss until thoroughly coated. Taste the sauce, adding more black pepper or salt if necessary. Serve with chicken. Cut the chicken into strips and lay them on top of the pasta in the serving dishes. Optionally, sprinkle with more cheese, parsley, and/or black pepper. | Heat olive oil in a large skillet. Season the chicken. Cook chicken breasts for one minute on each side. Cover and cook for ten minutes. Remove from heat and leave covered. Bring salted water to a boil. Cook pasta until slightly underdone. Save some of the water before draining. Check on the chicken. Heat minced garlic in the skillet. Heat and thicken a cream sauce. Add cheese and black pepper. Add reserved pasta water (light version only). Combine sauce and pasta. Serve with chicken. |
https://www.wikihow.pet/Get-Professional-Teeth-Cleaning-for-Your-Dog | How to Get Professional Teeth Cleaning for Your Dog | Before getting your dog's teeth cleaned professionally, speak to your vet about any concerns you have with your dog going under anesthesia, since this is necessary for the procedure. At least 8 hours before your appointment, stop giving food to your dog as this may cause vomiting. While teeth cleaning generally costs around $200-300 per session, you should speak to your pet insurer to check if they cover cleanings. Since dental health is key to your dog's overall health, schedule a teeth cleaning session with your vet at least once a year. | Make an appointment with your vet. In order to get your dog's teeth professionally cleaned, you will need to make an appointment with your vet. Call your vet's office and ask to schedule an appointment for a professional cleaning of your dog's teeth. Don’t give your pet food for at least eight hours before the appointment. Since your dog will be undergoing anesthesia, you should not feed your dog for at least eight hours before visiting the vet. This is an important precaution you must take before your dog gets its teeth cleaned professionally. Drinking water should be fine for your dog. Leave its bowl out overnight to let it drink, then pick it up in the morning. If your dog needs food or medication due to a health issue, please consult with your vet about these concerns well in advance of the appointment. Be prepared for an initial dental exam. Prior to the cleaning, your vet will first check your dog's mouth for odor, which can be a sign of gum disease. The vet will also check for gum abnormalities such as swollen, red, or bleeding gums. This part of the exam will happen while your dog is awake. Prepare for anesthesia. Be aware that the full oral exam will be completed while your dog is under anesthesia. The vet will administer general anesthesia so that your dog's mouth can be examined for periodontal pockets. While your dog is under anesthesia, the vet will also check the surfaces of your dog's teeth and conduct X-rays. These procedures are necessary for the vet to diagnose gum disease and are mostly safe for dogs. If you have specific concerns about your dog going under anesthesia, ask your vet to explain the procedure to you in detail. Ask your vet questions about how long your dog will be under anesthesia, how long it will take your dog to wake up, and if there are any risks specific to your dog's health or breed. Know what to expect during the teeth cleaning. While your dog is under anesthesia, the vet will manually remove plaque and tartar, polish your dog's teeth, rinse the dog's mouth, and then apply fluoride to prevent tooth decay. Consider the costs. While dental care for dogs is necessary, it can also be expensive. A cleaning usually costs several hundred dollars. X-rays can cost anywhere from several hundred to one thousand dollars or more. Extractions and dental surgery can run anywhere from two to three thousand dollars. Consult your vet's office about specific pricing in your region, as it can vary significantly from location to location. Inquire with your pet insurance, if you have one, about whether they cover dental cleanings. Follow any after-care instructions your vet gives you. After your vet finishes cleaning your dog's teeth, they will give you special instructions for follow-up care. This can include nutritional recommendations, an additional visit if your dog is suffering from issues that could not be addressed during the cleaning and oral exam, or the administration of medication or oral rinses. Make sure you follow the vet's instructions to ensure your dog maintains optimal dental health. Schedule a follow-up appointment. Most dogs will need a follow-up exam and cleaning about twelve months later. Some dogs, however, may need more frequent exams and procedures due to ongoing dental concerns. Make sure you schedule a follow-up for your dog within the timeline requested by your veterinarian. Feed your dog high quality food. Feeding your dog a diet of high quality food is essential for your dog's long term dental health. Your vet can help you choose a dog food that is right for your dog's breed and dental needs. Consider choosing a food approved by the Veterinary Oral Health Council. You can find their seal on approved dog foods. Allow your dog to chew on pet-safe chew toys, chew treats, or rawhide. Giving your dog safe toys or rawhide to chew on regularly is an important part of your dog's regular dental care. This can increase saliva production, keep plaque at bay, and help decrease the buildup of tartar. regularly. Brush your dog's teeth Regular brushing of your dog's teeth can prevent health problems down the road. While some dogs may resist regular brushing at home, others will allow it with some practice. Opt for a peanut or meat flavored toothpaste, a toothbrush formulated specifically for dogs, and a gentle approach. Ask your vet for tips and approaches that are specific to your individual dog. Educate yourself about regular dental care for your dog. Pets, like people, need regular dental care. Your dog should get regular brushings, eat quality food, and enjoy teeth-cleaning treats. It should also get regular oral X-rays, dental exams, and professional dental cleanings to prevent serious medical conditions like periodontal disease. Dogs should get a professional check up at least once per year, and weekly brushings at home if your pet will tolerate it. Learn about gum disease in dogs. Dogs, like people, can also develop periodontal, or gum, disease. In fact, gum disease is five times more likely to occur in pets than in humans. Plaque forms on your dog's teeth and, if left untreated, can lead to gum inflammation. Chronic inflammation of the gums can destroy bone and result in tooth loss. Regular dental cleanings can help prevent gum disease in dogs. Be aware that your dog could be in pain. Periodontal disease can cause extreme pain in dogs, but it is not the only culprit. Some dogs are also prone to broken teeth, which is often only discovered when a dog undergoes a dental exam. Your dog could also be suffering from bleeding gums or abscessed teeth, which also cause pain. More often than not these conditions are not readily apparent to the average dog owner. Create an individualized dental plan for your dog. Every dog is different, which means that maintaining a dog's dental health will be different for each dog. While your Fido may only need to have his teeth cleaned periodically, Fluffy may need more regular care. Consult your veterinarian about an individualized dental health plan for your dog. Most dogs will need oral exams and professional cleanings once a year beginning at six months of age. | Make an appointment with your vet. Don’t give your pet food for at least eight hours before the appointment. Be prepared for an initial dental exam. Prepare for anesthesia. Know what to expect during the teeth cleaning. Consider the costs. Follow any after-care instructions your vet gives you. Schedule a follow-up appointment. Feed your dog high quality food. Allow your dog to chew on pet-safe chew toys, chew treats, or rawhide. regularly. Educate yourself about regular dental care for your dog. Learn about gum disease in dogs. Be aware that your dog could be in pain. Create an individualized dental plan for your dog. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-a-Sugar-Glider | How to Care for a Sugar Glider | To care for your sugar glider, start by setting it up in as big a cage as possible, since it needs space to spread its legs and glide. Once you've got the cage set up, clean it just once a week, because sugar gliders like their environment to be marked by their scent. Additionally, feed your pet when it wakes up at night, and make sure it has fresh water at all times. Try to follow a diet plan that replicates what it eats in the wild, which you can find online. You should also spend time bonding with your sugar glider by carrying it close to you or feeding it treats. | Take the time to bond with your glider. One of the most special things about sugar gliders is their need for socialization. Gliders are capable of a lot of love and if you spend time with them and give them respect, they will grow to trust you. Gliders form strong bonds and can become despondent when the bond is broken. Before bringing home a glider and starting the bonding process, make sure you want to keep the glider for its entire lifespan, which could be up to 15 years. Though some breeders will sell single gliders, gliders do much better in pairs or colonies. It's much better to get two gliders if you want them to stay happy and healthy. Starting the bonding process is as simple as wearing some fleece squares on your person for a few days, then putting them inside their sleeping pouch. They are very scent oriented and this will help them recognize you as part of their colony. Carrying them in a bonding pouch during the day is a great way to bond. They'll mainly sleep and you can coax them into the pouch with treats. Carry them close to your chest and don't let it bounce around too much. This also helps them get used to your scent. Give them treats, but not too many. Offer them when you wake them up to put them in a bonding pouch or when you want to play with them. This will help them understand they shouldn't fear you. One useful technique for play time is "tent time." Playing with your gliders in a tent allows them freedom to roam without worrying about making a mad dash to catch them before they end up somewhere you can't coax them out of. Another great idea if you don't have a tent is "tub time" where you can sit in a clean bathtub with them. Make sure a towel is covering the hole underneath the door, a plug is in the bathtub, and the toilet seat is down. Find a veterinarian for exotic animals. Just like dogs and cats, sugar gliders occasionally get sick. Before you bring a pair of sugar gliders home, make sure you have a vet in your area who specializes in glider care. You should bring your gliders in for a checkup about once a year to make sure they're doing well. Neutering your male glider is highly recommended unless it has lineage to prevent possible inbreeding if paired with a female. If you have males together, it's still better to have them neutered to help prevent fighting. Try to find at least two emergency vets in the area and have their numbers in case something happens. Sugar Gliders often seem to get sick after regular business hours. Look out for common illnesses that affect sugar gliders. When conditions are right, sugar gliders are relatively low maintenance pets. However, from time to time they may become ill due to lack of essential nutrients, not getting enough playtime, and other causes. If you see signs that your sugar gliders aren't feeling well, take them to the vet right away. Here are the common illnesses that affect them: Calcium deficiency, which can cause paralysis and is preventable as long as you feed your gliders the correct diet. Some good diets are TPG, BML, and OHPW Constipation or indigestion Open wounds from getting scratched or caught on a sharp part of the cage Obesity due to eating too many fatty foods Stress caused by poor socialization or being alone UTI, which is easy to spot. The most common sign is hissing while using the bathroom. Connect with other glider owners in your area. It is great fun to connect with other glider owners to share the joy. Plus they can be a great resource when you have to ask questions. There are many forums and message-boards that are glider-related. Be careful when you take your gliders outside. Sugar gliders, even when fully bonded, may run off to explore nearby and any nearby animals will be a risk to them. It's not recommend to have them outside unless you absolutely know they'll stay with you. Be watchful of other pets and loud noises that might scare them up a tree or into the drain pipe. They are very fast escapees. Do not use harnesses or leashes with Sugar Gliders. They can severely damage their patagium, neck, or spine. Play with them as often as you can, but don't worry too much about it. They are social animals, but as long as you have at least two, it's fine to just play with them once a week or so. Don't stop using all the bonding techniques and keep playing with them even after they're fully bonded. Even once bonded they'll still want you to keep them company sometimes. Buy or build a sizable cage. One amazing qualities sugar gliders have is their ability to spread their legs and glide through the air. In order to do this, in captivity, they need a nice tall cage. Though many breeders will give you a cage with your purchase, it may not be big enough. The minimum cage size for a pair of gliders is 3 feet (0.9 m) high by 2 feet (0.6 m) wide with no more than ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm) bar spacing. If you have extra room, the bigger (and taller) the better. There are several sources for cages online, or you can check your local pet store. Many glider owners build custom cages that fit the needs of their household. Avoid galvanized steel cages because they can rust and cause urinary tract infections in gliders. No need to worry about the direction of the bars. They have opposable thumbs and can climb easily on horizontal or vertical bars. Check that the wood if safe for gliders, of building or buying a wooden cage. Remember that wood is harder to clean and absorbs odors though. Place the cage on a large tray lined with bedding. This is useful for absorbing waste and stray food, and you can easily change out the bedding when it gets soiled. A plastic or metal tray works just fine. Use paper bedding such as CareFresh or other nontoxic bedding available such as yesterday's news cat litter or puppy pads. Change it out once a week or so. Only use kiln dried bedding. The oils in other wooden bedding can cause health problems for sugar gliders. If you don't want to buy bedding, you can use newspaper or another nontoxic material from around the house. Provide a pouch. Sugar gliders are nocturnal, and in their natural environment they sleep in trees. To replicate that experience in captivity, place a wooden birdhouse (made of safe wood such as manzanita or eucalyptus), or a fleece pouch with a slit in the side, Attach it to the side of the cage by using plastic c-links to affix it to the mesh or bars. Be sure any pouches are sewn safely for gliders, with small, hidden seams to keep their nails from catching on it. Many vendors online sell glider safe pouches and cage sets. It's important to make sure the nesting box is made from nontoxic materials. A fleece or 100% cotton (outside only) bag is a good choice, or an untreated manzanita, applewood, or eucalyptus bird house is good. It's always good to enhance their lives and buy both. Hollowed-out coconuts are another popular choice. Provide more than one to add some variety. Add safe branches and toys to the cage. Sugar gliders are intelligent and need an engaging environment. You need to stimulate your gliders' minds with interesting things to look at touch, smell and climb. Use eucalyptus branches. Attach them to the sides of the cage to replicate their natural environment, as well as cut down on smell and give them something to chew on. Toys can be bought from vendors online, or made from plastic baby toys and chains. Always make sure they are safe though, with no places they could get stuck or pinched. Always be sure to have a glider safe wheel, as the ones at pet stores are almost never safe for them. There are a many brands that are safe, of these Raptor wheels and Stealth wheels are most popular. Consider rotating toys and rearranging the elements in the cage on a regular basis. Check online for ideas on how to make the best possible habitat for your gliders. Glider forums are filled with great ideas for toys and other interesting things to add to the cage. If your gliders are understimulated, they will become depressed. This can lead to long-term health problems. Avoid cleaning too often. As sugar gliders are scent oriented, if nothing smells like them they will mark everything even more and make it smell worse. Clean the cage itself one week, the pouches the next, and the toys the next. This will help prevent them from over making. You can use unscented baby wipes daily to wipe down particularly dirty sections. Use a vinegar and water mixture with a few drops of eucalyptus essential oil to clean the cage and toys. The pouches and any other fabric can be washed by hand or in the washer with a little unscented detergent and/or a cup of vinegar. Check for any loose pieces or seams in the cage, pouches, and toys when cleaning and repair or replace accordingly. Provide a healthy diet. Sugar gliders are native to Australia, Indonesia, and a few other places, where they live on a diet of sap, bird eggs, lizards, insects, and other wild foods. Preparing food for sugar gliders is more like feeding animals in a zoo than opening a bag of kibble. There are several diet plans available, such as TPG, BML, or OHPW, which all provide a Step by step guide for feeding gliders. All these diets are accompanied by fruits and vegetables nightly. Be sure to follow them exactly as if you don't you may throw off the ratios. Both help the gliders get the calcium they need to avoid malnutrition and HLP (hind leg paralysis). Do some research online to find one that works for you, add some of them are more strict than others. Never feed gliders pellets as a total diet, while they are okay as a snack or emergency food, they are not a good diet. They have too little protein as well as fillers. It may seem as though food prep for sugar gliders will take a lot of time, but once you get the hang of it you can prepare enough food for the whole month in one day. The important thing is to make sure you provide the right ration of protein, sugars, and fats, and ensure your gliders are getting the minerals they need to stay healthy. Do not feed sugar gliders dog food, cat food or other foods not meant for sugar gliders. They don't contain the nutritional makeup that sugar gliders need to thrive. Do not feed garlic, rhubarb, onions, or anything in those families. Do not feed fresh lima beans. If bought frozen, they're fine, but otherwise they need to be cooked. Keep snacks on hand. Gliders love snacks, and can be a great resource for bonding. One of the favorites is live meal worms, though they are high in fat so feed in moderation. Seeing how much your little guy loves mealies will help you get over the "ick" factor (most pet stores sell plastic tweezers). Other snacks include fresh fruit, dried unsulfured papaya, dried unsulfured coconut, yogurt drops, pine nuts (in limited quantities), peas, and "lickey treats" which could be yogurt, applesauce or baby food. (Hawaiian Delight and chicken with apples are favorites.) When choosing snacks avoid all artificial sweeteners, colors or other non-natural ingredients. Never feed sugar gliders plain sugar, candy, or chocolate, as these will cause health problems. Only white chocolate is safe, any other chocolate is toxic to them. Provide fresh water at all times in the cage, and feed them at night. Using a weighted food dish is best or they may tip it over. Keep the water bottle or silo full at all times, but only feed them the specified amount of food each night. You should feed them at night around the time they wake up, and then take out the dish and any leftover food in the morning. You can leave a tablespoon of glider cereal, sold by The Pet Glider, in their cage during the day in case they wake up and are hungry. Sugar Gliders do not need heat lamps or heat rocks. They are able to regulate their body temperature like we can. During the winter, consider using a space heater in the room with them and providing a cage cover or small fleece squares in their sleeping pouch as blankets. Know that they need a specialized diet. They are exotic animals with specific nutritional needs, and not having a balanced diet can cause illness and eventually death. Pellets should not be a part of their diet. While it is find for a snack or emergency food, this should not be a main part of any glider's diet. Sugar Gliders can and will breed with their relatives. This can cause birth defects or disorders in joeys, and can cause the parents to cannibalize them. If your gliders do not have lineage proving they are not related, you shouldn't breed them. If you have two males together they should be neutered as this helps prevent fighting. Know that they need companions. They are very social colony animals, and without other gliders they get depressed and will self-mutilate. It is not healthy to have only one. They can over groom and pull out small tufts of fur, they may stop eating or running in their wheel and sometimes they may even start chewing on their tails which can lead to the tail having to be amputated. Even if you spend a lot of time with a lone glider, you can not speak their own language, you can not cuddle together with them in their sleeping pouch during the day, you can not groom each other like gliders do. They need cage mates. Refrain from buying from Malls, Fairs, or Flea Markets. These places are very similar to a puppy mill. They often sell underage and sometimes even sick sugar gliders. They charge too much compared to what you'd pay a breeder or for a rescue. They also usually sell unsafe and even dangerous supplies like leashes, wire or wodent wheels, tiny cages, etc. These people usually push a pelleted diet, as well. Consider adopting or rescuing. Many people purchase gliders as "impulse buys" because they are very cute, then come to regret the decision when they realize how much work is required in caring for them. You can usually find at least a few locally on Craigslist or Sale groups on Facebook. They will normally be much cheaper than buying joeys from a breeder. Also consider buying from a reputable breeder. They will charge less than a Mall, Fair, or Flea Market vendor, but usually more than a rescue or adopting. | Take the time to bond with your glider. Find a veterinarian for exotic animals. Look out for common illnesses that affect sugar gliders. Connect with other glider owners in your area. Be careful when you take your gliders outside. Play with them as often as you can, but don't worry too much about it. Buy or build a sizable cage. Place the cage on a large tray lined with bedding. Provide a pouch. Add safe branches and toys to the cage. Always be sure to have a glider safe wheel, as the ones at pet stores are almost never safe for them. Avoid cleaning too often. Provide a healthy diet. Keep snacks on hand. Provide fresh water at all times in the cage, and feed them at night. Sugar Gliders do not need heat lamps or heat rocks. Know that they need a specialized diet. Sugar Gliders can and will breed with their relatives. Know that they need companions. Refrain from buying from Malls, Fairs, or Flea Markets. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Terminate-a-Father%27s-Parental-Rights | How to Terminate a Father's Parental Rights | Terminating a father's parental rights is a major step to take and involves a legal process. If you're trying to terminate his rights without his permission, note that there are only certain serious instances where this is allowed, like if drug abuse, or physical or mental abuse is involved. You should hire an attorney, since these types of cases are typically complicated. You'll then need to find the correct court in your area to file termination paperwork. Once you've completed the relevant form, have it served to the father. You'll also need to gather documents and other evidence to present at the court hearing, such as failure to pay child support or reports of his inappropriate behavior. Remember to behave responsibly throughout each court hearing, since these types of cases can be very emotionally demanding for everyone involved. | Research laws on involuntary termination. Only certain, serious reasons are valid for terminating someone's parental rights without permission. In general, you must be able to show that the child is harmed by contact with the parent. The exact requirements vary depending on location, so check the following: If you are in the United States, search this list at childwelfare.gov to find the exact requirements for your state. The advice below focuses on the US process. If you are in the European Union, search for your country's legislation at justice.europa.eu. Search online if you live in another country. In most regions, physical or sexual abuse, neglect, mental illness, or drug abuse are grounds for termination. Consider hiring a lawyer. Hiring a lawyer is never required, but it may increase your odds of success and speed up the process. If you cannot afford to hire one, ask the courthouse about free or reduced-price law services. This is recommended whenever possible, but especially for the following cases: The termination is involuntary (the parent does not agree). Anyone involved in the case is mentally ill. Anyone involved in the case is an American Indian. Federal law may apply. Contact a local courthouse. Search for a local courthouse online or ask at your local center of government. In the USA, use the uscourts.gov website and look for a nearby District Court in your state. Once you've found a court, phone and ask the following questions: Ask whether this is the correct courthouse to petition for parental rights termination. If not, ask for the phone number of the correct court. Ask for the specific document your local court uses. Not all courts will have a document available. Ask how many copies of the document you'll need to bring. (Keep one for yourself as well.) File your documents. Fill out the documents the court supplied and bring them to the courthouse. If the court did not have documents, you will need to create your own. The court will only accept these if you follow strict guidelines while writing them. Try to get advice from a lawyer, courthouse employee, or law librarian. In the US, you'll typically need two documents: You'll need a petition explaining the situation and citing the law that allows you to request termination. Use the code number for your state statute here. Some courthouses may use two forms: a Statement of Legal Grounds and the petition itself. You'll also need a Summons, which is given to the defendant to start the process. Besides the content of the documents, your court probably also has requirements for how they look. Ask the courthouse for a guide on handwriting, typeface, and page layout. Have the documents served to the parent involved. After filing papers at the court, the court employee should give you one copy to keep and one copy to give to the person whose rights you want to terminate. In most cases, you cannot serve these papers yourself. Have them delivered by hand, through a US citizen over the age of 18 who is not involved in the case. That person may need to fill out a proof of service form and file it with the court immediately. Some states have special requirements. To be safe, look them up online or ask at the courthouse before you attempt to serve the papers. Deliver these papers promptly. If you don't give them enough advance warning before the hearing, the judge may cancel the hearing. Gather documentation and evidence. You will need to have evidence or documentation of incidents or issues relating to your attempt to terminate a parent's rights in order to prove your case. Organize your evidence and make sure any documentation meets all the legal requirements to be entered in the case. The court may appoint an investigator who can give you more specific advice. If you plan on calling witnesses, you'll need to fill out more paperwork in advance. Ask the courthouse for the forms used in your area. Attend all scheduled hearings. A court hearing or series of hearings will be scheduled after your petition for termination of parental rights has been filed and reviewed. Attend all the scheduled hearings. Bring all the documentation you prepared. It's up to the judge whether the child is required to attend the hearings. Conduct yourself appropriately. When asking the courts to terminate another parent's rights, it's important that you conduct yourself as a respectable, responsible adult. This will be an emotional issue, but it's important that the judge views you as level-headed and mature. Dress professionally, arrive on time and be calm and respectful in the courtroom. Refer to the judge as "your honor." Never interrupt the judge. Obtain the order of termination. Once the courts have granted your request to terminate parental rights, paperwork will be issued removing their rights to the child. Obtain this documentation for your own records to ensure that the child's rights are protected and that the court's decision is upheld in any future disputes. In some states, you may need to fill out a form yourself or write your own document for the judge to sign. Look into voluntary termination laws. The process may be easier if you are a parent that agrees to the termination. You'll still need approval from a court. Most courts are unlikely to accept the termination unless someone else is ready to adopt the child (and not just the other parent). Teenage mothers overwhelmed by the responsibility may also be able to use this route. A parent who cannot support the child may be able to give the baby to a safe haven instead. A parent cannot terminate parental rights to avoid paying child support. Sign the consent form. If you have a valid reason for terminating the rights, and think the child would be better off for it, contact your local courthouse. The first step will be obtaining and signing a consent form. Your courthouse may call the form Voluntary Termination of Parental Rights, Voluntary Relinquishment of Parental Rights, Consent to Termination of Parental Rights, Affidavit of Waiver of Parental Rights, or any similar title. Attend the court hearing. The court employee should let you know when you are due in court. The court may also ask the child and/or the child's guardian to appear. After questioning you about the situation, the judge will make a decision. Even if you have legal grounds to request termination, the judge may not allow it. The judge typically rules based on what its best for the child. If your rights are terminated, the judge should let you know how this affects your child support payments or other fees. | Research laws on involuntary termination. Consider hiring a lawyer. Contact a local courthouse. File your documents. Have the documents served to the parent involved. Gather documentation and evidence. Attend all scheduled hearings. Conduct yourself appropriately. Obtain the order of termination. Look into voluntary termination laws. Sign the consent form. Attend the court hearing. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Muzzle-Train-a-Dog | How to Muzzle Train a Dog | If you're afraid your dog might bite a person or another dog, muzzle training may be able to help. Introduce the muzzle to the dog by holding it while you're playing a fun game with your dog, like fetch. Give the dog praise and treats if it keeps playing after seeing the muzzle. Then, put the muzzle somewhere near you, like on a table. Whenever the dog approaches or sniffs the muzzle, give it a treat. Wait until the dog is completely comfortable around the muzzle before you try to put it on. | Choose a basket muzzle for basic training and exercise. There are a few different types of muzzles available on the market, but basket muzzles are the best option for most pet owners. Basket muzzles make your dog look a little bit like Hannibal Lecter, but don't let that deter you. These muzzles are the most comfortable option available and work in any situation where your dog is physically active. They are made out of wire, plastic, or leather. Wire muzzles are the most effective at preventing bites. They work particularly well on large dogs like boxers and mastiffs. Plastic and leather muzzles fit well on smaller dogs like terriers and spaniels. Many people confuse head halters with basket muzzles. Head halters are walking leads for training. Halters do not prevent dogs from biting. Pick a fabric muzzle for short-term events like grooming. Fabric muzzles look more comfortable than basket muzzles, but the opposite is true. This type of muzzle closes your dog's mouth, preventing them from eating, drinking, and panting. Since this is dangerous, these muzzles must only be used under close supervision for short periods of time, about 30 minutes or less. Your dog regulates its temperature by panting, so never let it wear a fabric muzzle for a long period of time, especially in warm weather or after physical activity. This type of muzzle is most commonly used by vets and groomers. It's a good option when you need to clip your dog's nails, not when you're taking your dog out for a walk. Police muzzles look like an extra secure fabric muzzle. They are made for use on police dogs trained to attack on command. This kind of muzzle is unnecessary and not recommended for pets. Measure your dog from the tip of its nose to its forehead. Once you know what kind of muzzle you need, figure out what muzzle size is a good fit for your dog. If you are able, use a tape measure to note the dimensions of your dog's snout. Measure its length from the end to the spot where your dog's muzzle starts to slope upwards towards its eyes. Taking measurements on some dogs is tough, but give it your best shot to get a good estimate. Find the circumference of the thickest part of your dog’s muzzle. Take the measurement at the end of the dog's snout, right before its forehead. Wrap the tape loosely around your dog's snout if it lets you. This measurement ensures you get a muzzle that fits your dog without chafing its skin. Be careful when taking measurements. To avoid bites, do this only with dogs you know well. Keep your face distant and stop if the dog growls or looks upset. Use the measurements to choose a muzzle that fits your dog. Bring your measurements to a pet supply store or have them nearby while you shop online. Most retail stores have sizing guides available near the muzzles, which is especially helpful if you had a hard time measuring your dog's snout. Ask sales associates for additional help. Vets, dog trainers, and other professionals are also helpful when choosing a muzzle. Ask them for advice on sizing a muzzle and muzzle training. Most manufacturers include sizing estimates with muzzles. Check the packaging for a general indication of what size of dog the muzzle is meant for. Introduce the muzzle by holding it while playing with your dog. The goal of muzzle training is to get the dog to associate the muzzle with fun times, like playing fetch or wrestling. Choose your dog's favorite activity and get your treats ready. Hold the muzzle up briefly during the activity, then reward the dog for playing by giving it a treat. For example, if you choose fetch, hold the muzzle up when you throw the ball. Hide it behind your back as the dog retrieves the ball. Then, give them a treat and praise when they return. Praise your dog only while showing them the muzzle. That way, they associate praise with the muzzle. For dogs who have had negative past experiences with muzzles, doing a favorite activity first is important. It helps them overcome their fear. Let the dog get closer to the muzzle and reward them for their interest. Put the muzzle on a table or hold it in your hand. Any time your dog looks at it, sniffs it, or otherwise gets close to it, reward them. Give them a treat, verbal praise, or a click if your dog is clicker trained. Some dogs will be a little hesitant to approach. Let them come to the muzzle at their own speed. Meanwhile, continue showing them the muzzle during play sessions until they determine it isn't a threat. Use the muzzle as a treat dispenser to draw the dog closer. Hold the muzzle in your hand with the open end facing the ceiling. Put your dog's favorite treats in the bottom of the muzzle so they have to stick their nose in to get a nibble. Some treats to try are cheese, chopped up hot dogs, cooked chicken, or anything else your dog loves to eat. Hold the muzzle steady in your hand. Avoid making any sudden movements and don't try to push the muzzle onto the dog's nose yet. As your dog gets more comfortable, try turning the training into a game. Hold the muzzle behind your back, then show it, holding it a few steps away from your dog. Let them run in and retrieve the treat inside. Smear soft food onto the muzzle if the dog is too nervous to eat. Spread peanut butter or cream cheese inside the closed end of the muzzle. Freeze it briefly to solidify the spread. Afterward, try holding the muzzle out to your dog again. Let them put their nose in to lick the sweet treat. If your dog looks very nervous about being near a muzzle, give them a few days to adjust. Put treats in the muzzle each day until your dog is able to be near it without fear. Lift the strap while your dog is eating from the muzzle. Move the strap up slowly with your free hand. Lift it up and put it back down. Don't fasten the muzzle to their collar yet. For every 5 times you lift the strap, feed your dog a treat through the muzzle. Hold the strap up the entire time your dog eats a treat. Keep the strap up like you're about to lock the muzzle in place. Watch carefully to see how the dog responds. Keep practicing it until their caution fades. Eventually, they will eat without showing any anxiety about the muzzle. If the dog tries to take the treat and run, don't chase them or force them back into the muzzle. Switch to a soft treat like peanut butter if you're using solid food. That way, they need to stay near the muzzle to eat. Wrap the strap around your dog’s neck and hold it in place. Act like you're going to attach the muzzle, but don't close it yet. Keep watching to see how the dog reacts. Reward them with praise or clicks when they stay in the muzzle. Many dogs will back away when you first put the muzzle on. Don't chase them or force the muzzle back on. Let them return for the treat in the muzzle when they're ready. Secure the muzzle’s strap around the dog’s neck. Slide the muzzle onto the dog's snout, then hook the strap to their collar. Make sure the muzzle fits snugly over the dog's snout without chafing their skin. If the muzzle seems too restrictive, get a replacement as soon as possible so the training doesn't go to waste. If your dog still resists, putting a little bit of frozen peanut butter, cream cheese, baby food, or squeezable cheese helps encourage them to check out the muzzle. Use these foods as rewards that are safe to feed your dog while they wear the muzzle. Keep the muzzle on while you do an activity your dog enjoys. The muzzle takes fetch out of the equation, but there are many other ways to have fun with your dog. Try wrestling, chasing, or another activity they normally find entertaining. Play for short periods of time, such as a few minutes at first, to help your dog adapt. Choosing an activity your dog loves is important. It leads them to associate the muzzle with something positive like playing with you. To speed up the training process, play at different times of the day. That way, the dog learns that the muzzle isn't reserved for a specific time or activity. Take the muzzle off when your dog seems calm and controlled. If your dog seems anxious to get out of the muzzle, wait. Don't acknowledge them until they stop whining and fidgeting. When the dog settles down, take off the muzzle. Set the muzzle aside, have fun with your dog, and continue training on another day. Distract a stressed dog with an enjoyable activity or task like telling them to sit or lie down. Consider slowing down and doing more sessions without the muzzle attached to help your dog adjust. Leave the muzzle on for an extra minute each time your dog wears it. Let your dog wear the muzzle for a short period of time, such as 30 seconds to 1 minute, the first time you use it. As they get more used to the muzzle, increase the duration a little bit more. Eventually, your dog will be able to handle long outings with the muzzle, such as walks and vet appointments. For example, have the dog wear the muzzle for 1 minute, then for 3 minutes, then for 5 minutes. Test your dog by playing or taking them for walks to ensure it is comfortable wearing the muzzle as long as you need it to. Take your dog outside with the muzzle on. Being outside is like a big test for your dog. All of the sights and sounds going on are distracting even for a well-trained dog. Try taking the dog on a brief walk around the block. Keep the muzzle and leash on the entire time. Going on a walk may be a little stressful for your dog at first. Start out with short walks as needed, then increase the duration. Socialize your dog with other people and dogs. Muzzling your dog means they cannot nip at anyone that approaches them. If your dog is normally anxious and aggressive, using the muzzle gives you an opportunity to bring your dog to a public area like a dog park. Watch your dog carefully. Permit others to approach as long as your dog seems comfortable with it. Repeated exposure to social settings helps most dogs become calmer and less prone to biting. A muzzle isn't a cure for behavioral problems. If your dog seems aggressive or anxious, it needs behavioral training to overcome these problems. Remove the muzzle when you’re done using it. Take the muzzle off as soon as you get your dog home or into another safe spot where it can't nip anyone. Muzzles are not meant for long-term use, especially if yours is of the fabric variety. Give your dog time to rest and before you need to use the muzzle again. Remember that fabric muzzles are very restrictive and only meant for short trips like vet visits. Most basket muzzles are designed so your dog can pant and drink water, which makes them safe for longer outings like walks and play sessions, but don't use them longer than you need to. | Choose a basket muzzle for basic training and exercise. Pick a fabric muzzle for short-term events like grooming. Measure your dog from the tip of its nose to its forehead. Find the circumference of the thickest part of your dog’s muzzle. Use the measurements to choose a muzzle that fits your dog. Introduce the muzzle by holding it while playing with your dog. Let the dog get closer to the muzzle and reward them for their interest. Use the muzzle as a treat dispenser to draw the dog closer. Smear soft food onto the muzzle if the dog is too nervous to eat. Lift the strap while your dog is eating from the muzzle. Hold the strap up the entire time your dog eats a treat. Wrap the strap around your dog’s neck and hold it in place. Secure the muzzle’s strap around the dog’s neck. Keep the muzzle on while you do an activity your dog enjoys. Take the muzzle off when your dog seems calm and controlled. Leave the muzzle on for an extra minute each time your dog wears it. Take your dog outside with the muzzle on. Socialize your dog with other people and dogs. Remove the muzzle when you’re done using it. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Lymphoma-in-Boxers | How to Treat Lymphoma in Boxers | To treat lymphoma in boxers, take your dog to the vet to confirm the diagnosis and start treatment as soon as possible. Your vet will probably suggest systemic chemotherapy, which is the preferred treatment for lymphoma. A combination of chemotherapy drugs will be administered and your vet will work with you to schedule follow up appointments to continue the therapy. During chemotherapy, monitor your boxer closely for signs of infection, such as digestive problems, weakness, tiredness, and fever, and contact your vet immediately if you notice them. | Look for enlarged lymph nodes. Lymph nodes are located throughout your Boxer's body and are part of his lymphatic system, which also has vessels that transport infection-fighting substances. Lymph nodes are the most common sites for lymphoma. Some lymph nodes are easier to find than others. Lymph nodes below your Boxer's jaw and behind his knees will be easily visible when enlarged. Lymphoma can spread to multiple lymph nodes very rapidly. Touch your Boxer’s lymph nodes. Lymph nodes affected with lymphoma will feel hard and rubbery. They will not be painful, though. Check for swelling on your Boxer’s legs or face. The lymphatic system's vessels help keep lymphatic fluid moving throughout your Boxer's body. With enlarged lymph nodes, this fluid builds up in different places. If your Boxer has swollen lymph nodes in his legs, fluid will accumulate near his ankles. Swollen lymph nodes near his face could cause his face to look puffy from fluid buildup. Observe signs of digestive upset. Part of your Boxer's immune system is located in his gastrointestinal (GI) tract. If he has GI lymphoma, he will show signs of digestive upset, including vomiting and watery diarrhea. Your Boxer will also have a reduced appetite, which could lead to weight loss. GI lymphoma makes up less than 10% of all canine lymphomas. Examine your Boxer’s skin and mouth. One type of lymphoma, called cutaneous lymphoma, can develop on the skin and in the mouth. If your Boxer has cutaneous lymphoma, his skin will initially have patches that are dry, red, itchy, and flaky. His skin can then become ulcerated and thick. In the mouth, cutaneous lymphoma can cause red gums and ulcerations in the roof of the mouth. Healthy, noncancerous gums are pink. Observe your Boxer’s breathing. Lymphoma can also form in the thymus, which is a gland located beneath your Boxer's sternum. If this gland becomes enlarged, fluid can accumulate in his chest, making breathing difficult. He may start breathing more heavily. Take your Boxer to your vet. Your vet will confirm a lymphoma diagnosis. To make the diagnosis, they will physically examine your Boxer and perform some diagnostic tests. During the appointment, give your vet a detailed history of your Boxer's overall health and what lymphoma symptoms you have noticed. The more information you can provide, the better your vet will be able to make a diagnosis. Fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of an enlarged lymph node is a quick, painless, and inexpensive way to diagnose lymphoma. A long, thin needle is used to take a sample of cells. If your vet thinks the lymphoma has spread, they may perform ultrasound-guided FNAs of some internal organs (e.g., intestines, bone marrow). A biopsy is the 'gold standard' for diagnosing lymphoma, since it provides more accurate information than an FNA about the cancer. Your vet will determine whether to do an FNA or a biopsy. Other diagnostic tests include bloodwork, urinalysis, chest x-rays, and abdominal ultrasound. These tests will help your vet determine where the lymphoma has spread to in your Boxer's body. Learn what to expect with lymphoma treatment. In most cases, canine lymphoma is not curable. The main goal of lymphoma treatment is remission: the temporary disappearance of cancer symptoms. The treatment plan your vet devises will reduce your Boxer's tumor burden and improve his quality of life, but will probably not cure him. Dogs in remission can live very happy lives, so do not be discouraged over the lack of a cure for your Boxer's lymphoma. Begin treatment as soon as possible. Even if your Boxer's lymph nodes are really large, he may not feel or look that sick when his lymphoma is diagnosed. Do not wait until he looks sick to start treatment, though! Without prompt treatment, the lymphoma could spread rapidly, decreasing the chances of remission and survival. Allow your vet to administer chemotherapy. Systemic chemotherapy is the preferred treatment for lymphoma. A combination of chemotherapy drugs is usually given at the same time. Your vet will determine which set of chemotherapy drugs to give your Boxer, and how often to give them. Doxorubicin is a chemotherapy drug used to treat lymphoma. Between 70 and 90% of dogs treated for lymphoma with a doxorubicin-based treatment plan achieve remission. Most dogs tolerate chemotherapy very well, so your Boxer will probably not suffer serious side effects during treatment. Serious side effects, which occur in only about 5% of canine lymphoma cases, include diarrhea, vomiting, extreme tiredness, and changes in urination (e.g., blood in urine). Tell your vet about any negative side effects your Boxer experiences. Consider other treatment options. Surgery and radiation therapy are sometimes used with chemotherapy to treat lymphoma in Boxers. For example, surgery may be effective in removing GI lymphoma. However, if your Boxer has GI lymphoma that has spread throughout the GI tract, he is likely very ill and would not gain much benefit from treatment. Surgery or radiation therapy, when combined with chemotherapy, can be effective if your Boxer has only a single lymphoma. Prednisone, which is a steroid, can treat lymphoma by killing cancer cells. It is inexpensive and can be given by mouth. Discuss these other treatment options with your vet. Have your vet reduce fluid accumulation. If your Boxer has fluid accumulation, your vet will need to drain that fluid as part of the treatment plan. They will use specialized equipment to remove the fluid from your Boxer's body. Fluid removal may help your Boxer breathe a little easier and feel more comfortable overall. Monitor your Boxer for signs of infection. Chemotherapy could make your Boxer more susceptible to developing infections. Common signs of infection include digestive upset (e.g., vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite), weakness, tiredness, and fever. Take your Boxer to your vet for treatment if he develops an infection. Schedule regular appointments with your vet. Lymphoma treatment is long term. Your vet may want to see your Boxer as often as once a month to monitor his treatment progress. Even if the appointments are not monthly, regular veterinary visits will be important to keep your Boxer as healthy as possible during treatment. Learn about the different types of remission. When your Boxer enters remission, his lymphoma will be reduced, but not completely gone. If he is in complete remission, there will not be any detectable cancer. If he is in partial remission, his tumor burden will be detectable, but reduced by about at least 50%. Your vet will perform different tests to detect the cancer. How long your Boxer stays in remission depends on different factors, such as the primary site of the lymphoma and how far it has spread. Monitor your Boxer during remission. With complete remission, your Boxer will probably be feeling pretty good. He'll probably want to eat, run, and play like he used to. Your Boxer may not be quite so lively if he's in partial remission, but will definitely be feeling better. Take notice if your Boxer starts looking unwell, or if his lymph nodes start swelling up again. These signs could indicate a relapse, meaning the lymphoma has come back. Have your Boxer treated if he has a relapse. More than likely, your Boxer will have a treatment relapse. Your vet will need to treat him with chemotherapy again. Be mindful, though, that the tumor cells will become more resistant to chemotherapy with each relapse. When your Boxer's lymphoma no longer responds to chemotherapy, your vet will adjust the treatment plan and focus more on keeping him comfortable. | Look for enlarged lymph nodes. Touch your Boxer’s lymph nodes. Check for swelling on your Boxer’s legs or face. Observe signs of digestive upset. Examine your Boxer’s skin and mouth. Observe your Boxer’s breathing. Take your Boxer to your vet. Learn what to expect with lymphoma treatment. Begin treatment as soon as possible. Allow your vet to administer chemotherapy. Consider other treatment options. Have your vet reduce fluid accumulation. Monitor your Boxer for signs of infection. Schedule regular appointments with your vet. Learn about the different types of remission. Monitor your Boxer during remission. Have your Boxer treated if he has a relapse. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Supplies-for-Your-New-Dog | How to Get Supplies for Your New Dog | Before you bring your new dog home, get some sturdy food and water bowls made of stainless steel or ceramic. Avoid plastic bowls, since they contain chemicals that could harm your dog. You'll also need to purchase dog food that's appropriate for your dog's age, breed, and overall health. Buy some healthy, natural treats as well so that you can reward your dog when it behaves well. Your dog will need a safe rest area, so get a cozy crate that's big enough for your dog to stand up and turn around in, and a comfortable dog bed. Additionally, get a collar and ID tags to help keep your dog safe when it goes outside. | Purchase food and water bowls. Find food and water bowls that are appropriately sized and will not hold bacteria. Generally, stainless steel bowls will be a little better than plastic, since plastic bowls can be chewed up and then hold onto bacteria. Ceramic bowls can be fine but are less durable than either plastic or steel. Plastic bowls contain chemicals that, if eaten, could influence your dog's hormonal balance. Stay away from plastic bowls. If you decide to go for a ceramic bowl, make sure the glaze is lead-free, for lead can hurt dogs if they eat it. Stainless steel is durable, easy to clean and carry. It is the best material for a dog bowl. Buy dog food. Find a dog food that is appropriate for your new dog's age and breed. You may want to consult with the breeder or your veterinarian about an appropriate food for your new dog. Since dogs can have some difficulty switching between different foods, try to be consistent in the food you feed them. If your new dog is a puppy, look for a dog food that has a modest amount of carbohydrates, a good ratio of fat to protein, and lots of meat-based protein. You should find a food that does not have chemical preservatives, artificial coloring, or generic animal fats. If your new dog is an old dog, you should look for a low-calorie dog food. Get some treats. You should get some treats so that you can reward your new dog when they show good behavior. When purchasing treats, read the list of ingredients on the dog treat package to figure out whether it is healthy or not. Look for whole food ingredients that are grown in close proximity to the producer. Avoid ingredients that you cannot recognize. Look for natural sweeteners. Above all else, avoid the following ingredients: artificial preservatives, artificial colors and chemical humectants. Obtain a crate. You will need a dog crate for your new dog to get some rest. Although some new dog owners do not like the look of dog crates, dogs actually love to have a place to call their own. You should get a crate that is an appropriate size for your dog. Your dog should be able to stand up and turn around comfortably in the crate. However, it should not be so big that they are able to have multiple rooms in one crate. You can find dog crates online or at your local pet store. Dogs like the feeling of a cave environment, so it can help if you put a blanket overtop of the crate. Dog crates come in a range of sizes. Crates cost in the range of $15 to $150. Buy a dog bed. Find a bed that will allow your new dog to sleep comfortably. When your new dog is introduced into your home, the bed will make them feel more at home. If your new dog is a puppy, you will want to find a bed that fits inside the crate. For the first period of puppy training, your new dog will sleep in the crate. When they get older, you can get a larger bed that goes outside the crate. If your new dog is a puppy, keep an eye on them to make sure they don't chew the new bed. They could get sick by ingesting the contents of the bed. It may help if you get two beds for your puppy in case one gets ruined. If your new dog is an adult, you should find an appropriate bed for their size. Find one that allows them to curl up in a comfortable sleeping position. Make sure the bed you get is washable so you can wash it once a week. Obtain identification tags. Your city or municipality may send you a numbered dog tag after you register your dog. In addition, you should purchase a dog tag that includes their name, phone number and address. If your new dog gets lost, this will make it easier to find it. You should also consider microchipping your new dog. Ask your veterinarian about microchipping, which involves the insertion of a microchip in your dog's back. The chip can be scanned to identify their personal information. If your dog gets lost, a shelter can scan your dog and hopefully get it back to you. Purchase baby gates. Getting baby gates will allow you to stop your new dog from going into certain areas of your house. When you buy the baby gates, make sure they have bars that are far enough apart that your new dog will not be able to get its' head stuck between them. Find an exercise pen for your new dog. An exercise pen can be very helpful if you want to contain your dog for a period of time but do not want to lock them in their crate. The exercise pen is an enclosed play area that you can set up in a living room or other space in your house. Get cleaning supplies. You will need a few extra rags, stain removers and other supplies to clean up after your new dog. Find non-toxic cleaning supplies such as vinegar or green cleaners that do not have chemicals such as phenols, formaldehyde, isopropyl alcohol, phthalates, bleach or perchloroethylene. Some good products for keeping your house clean with a new dog include: Green multi-surface cleaning products. Look for products that are EPA-registered. Green odor removers. Look for products that have biodegradable ingredients. Get a collar and leash. Find a stylish leash and a collar. You will want a leash that is four to six feet in length, depending on the size of your dog and how much extra leash you want to hold while walking. You can get leather, cotton or nylon collars and leashes. They come in a variety of colors and sometimes include special features such as reflectors that help people see you and your dog while walking at night. If you live in a rainy climate, you might want to avoid a leather leash. It will get soaked and will take a long time to dry. Use a long line leash instead of an extendable leash. Extendable leashes can teach dogs to pull. Buy appropriate grooming supplies. You should purchase grooming supplies that are appropriate for the breed of your dog and the kind of life that it will lead. Depending on the breed and lifestyle of your new dog, you may need the following supplies: Brush. Comb. Nail trimmer. Dog shampoo. Dog conditioner. Coat clippers and scissors. Dog toothbrush and toothpaste. Purchase dog toys. Get some nice toys for your new dog. You may want to find toys that are rugged and durable so that you don't have to replace them as frequently. In addition, you should avoid toys that have a lot of parts that your new dog is likely to rip off. Find toys that are made from durable materials such as rubber. When purchasing dog toys, consider the following elements: Exercise. Think about how much exercise your new dog will get with a particular toy. Stimulation. Think about how much cognitive stimulation the toy will give your new dog. Bonding. Consider how much bonding the new toy will enable. Dental health. Think about whether the toy will be good or bad for your new dog's teeth. Make a budget. Determine a budget for getting supplies for your new dog. Consider the cost of essential pet supplies and determine your budget for all essential supplies such as a crate, bed, bowl, collar, leash, tags, and any applicable registration fees in your neighborhood. In addition, consider how much you want to spend on additional supplies that may or may not be essential depending on your living situation, such as baby gates, and for toys. Include a line item for a crate. A crate may cost between $15 and $200. Make a line item for a bed, which will cost between $20 and $100. Consider how much you want to spend on a bowl. They cost between $10 and $50. Consider the costs of collar, leash and tags, which each cost between $20 and $50. If you don't have money for toys, see if you can borrow a toy from a friend or find sticks in the park for your dog. Factor in medical costs, like vaccinations, deworming, and emergency vet visits. Buy used pet supplies. You can save money by purchasing used pet supplies at garage sales or online forums. Try searching online buy and sell advertisements for the pet supplies you need. You may be able to find a crate, leash or other dog supplies for cheaper than if you were to purchase them brand new. You could also try getting pet supplies at a local garage sale. Recycle pet supplies. If you or someone in your family has recently owned a dog, see if you can recycle any old pet supplies. If you don't have an item that can be recycled, consider asking a friend or family member if they have the item you need. Try asking: “Do you have a spare crate that I could use for our new puppy?” “Do you happen to have an extra leash I could use?” “Do you happen to own any old toys your dog has lost interest in? If so, how would you feel about giving them to our new dog?” Visit online pet forums. Reading and participating in online pet forums can help you save money. You can ask for advice about saving money on supplies for your specific breed and living situation. If you are able to find deals on pet supplies, you can also share your wisdom on the pet forum. Keep in mind that people posting on online pet forums are not necessarily experts. Always do research to verify the information you're getting from someone on a forum. Shop online. You can get good deals by comparing prices between major online retailers. Look for the best deal on food, crates, leashes and other essential items by comparing the price across three or more pet supply websites. Look for “best” or “top” deals on pet websites. Search for the overstocked merchandise on pet supply websites. You can find this overstock, which is considerably cheaper, by looking at the “top” or “best” deal sections of major pet supply websites. Consider saving money on dog food. You can save money on dog food by portioning food and by purchasing cheaper brands. By giving appropriate size portions to your new dog, they will be healthier in the long run. Since portions sizes are dependent on the size, breed and lifestyle of your dog, you will need to consult your veterinarian. You can also save money on the dog food itself but you should be aware that more expensive dog food may save money in the long run if it helps your dog live a healthier life. You could save on veterinary bills in the long run by spending a little more on the right kind of dog food. Nonetheless, consult with your veterinarian to see if there is a cheaper brand that performs well for your breed. A forty pound bag of dog food typically costs in the range of $35 to $50. Ask your veterinarian: “Is there a budget option that will also keep my dog healthy?” Inquire: “What size portions are appropriate for my dog?” Keep in mind that cheaper dog foods can cause digestive issues. | Purchase food and water bowls. Buy dog food. Get some treats. Obtain a crate. Buy a dog bed. Obtain identification tags. Purchase baby gates. Find an exercise pen for your new dog. Get cleaning supplies. Get a collar and leash. Buy appropriate grooming supplies. Purchase dog toys. Make a budget. Buy used pet supplies. Recycle pet supplies. Visit online pet forums. Shop online. Look for “best” or “top” deals on pet websites. Consider saving money on dog food. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Texture-from-Walls | How to Remove Texture from Walls | To remove texture from a wall, start by spraying a small section of the wall with water and letting the water soak in for a few minutes. Then, hold a floor scraper or drywall blade at a 30-degree angle to the wall, and firmly scrape the softened texture off of the wall. Repeat the process until you've scraped off all of the texture. Finally, sand the wall with medium-grit sandpaper before covering it with joint compound. | Cover the furniture in the room. This job is very messy. You will have drywall and paint everywhere, so you need to make sure everything is well covered. You can drape furniture in old sheets, drop cloths, or tarps. You may also want to cover vents so it doesn't spread throughout your house. You can tape plastic over them to prevent dust from going through. Move furniture out if you're nervous about dust. If you're worried about damaging your furniture, it's best to just move it out of the room. You should definitely move any fragile or antique pieces out of the room, if possible. Put tarps down on the floor. If you want to minimize your cleanup, put tarps or drop cloths on the floor. That will help contain the mess, so you can pick it up and take it elsewhere, away from your floors. Tape the tarp down around the edges using painter's tape. Protect yourself with safety gear. Don't forget to wear safety goggles and a dust mask to protect yourself from the debris. If you're worried about lead paint, consider wearing a respirator instead of just a dust mask. You may also want gloves when applying the joint compound. If you have an old house, you'll likely be dealing with lead paint. In that case, you'll need to take extra precautions, such as removing everything from the room, or covering it up with 2 sheets of plastic, each one 6 millimeters thick. You should also wear clothes you can throw away or disposable coveralls, along with gloves, goggles, a HEPA respirator, and a hair covering. Vacuum any dust off you with a HEPA-filtered vacuum cleaner. Spray a small area with water. Start with a 2 by 2 feet (0.61 by 0.61 m) square, and thoroughly coat it with water. Don't spray a large area yet, as you'll need to practice a bit to get the technique down. Let the water soak into the wall for a few minutes. The water will help make it easier to scrape the texture off. Touch the wall to see if it's soaked in enough. It should feel a little soft. If it doesn't seem soft, try spraying it again. Hold a floor scraper or drywall blade at a 30° angle. Set the blade against the wall. The blade should create a 30° angle coming off of the wall. Keep it steady at this angle when you begin to scrape. Scrape off the texture. Scrape the wall at an angle, adjusting as you go. You may need to scrape harder or softer, depending on how the wall responds to your scraping. That's why you're starting with a small spot first. If the texture isn't coming off, you're not scraping hard enough. However, you don't want to scrape down into the wallboard underneath. Move around the room in small sections. Once you get your rhythm, spray another section. It can be bigger than your first section. Let it soak in, and scrape it as you did before. Keep moving around the room until you've scraped all of the texture off. Be sure to move systematically around the room so you don't miss any spots. Pick a place to start, and make a plan for how you're going to cover the whole room, such as going up and down the wall. If it dries out, apply more water as needed. Sand down the texture that's left behind. After you have the whole room done, go back around with a medium-grit sandpaper in the 60- to 100-grit range. Sand down any rough spots that are left behind so you have a mostly smooth surface. You can also use a sanding screen. Don't sand too hard, as you don't want to sand through the paper on the wallboard or into the wallboard. Wipe down the wall with a damp sponge. You don't want to leave dust on the area, so dampen a large sponge. Wipe down the wall as well as you can to remove the dust. You may need to wash the sponge out from time to time. Apply joint compound over the wall with a wallboard knife. Use a wallboard knife that's 6 inches (15 cm) long to spread joint compound across the wall. Aim for a layer that's ⁄ 8 inch (3.2 mm) thick. Smooth it out as you go, and make sure to complete each wall in one session to give it a more even look. Let the wall dry overnight. Sand the walls down again. Once the wall has dried overnight, sand down any rough areas with medium-grit sandpaper or a sanding screen. Create as smooth a surface as you can. Vacuum up the drywall dust so it doesn't float into the joint compound when you apply it again. You can use a standard vacuum, but make sure it works really well. However, you can also rent a dust drywall vacuum specifically for that purpose. Apply another round of joint compound. Use your wallboard knife to apply the second and final layer of joint compound. Make a thinner layer this time, as you're mostly trying to fill in low spots. Let it dry overnight. Sand again. After the joint compound has dried overnight, spend time smoothing out the walls again. Run medium-grit sandpaper over any rough areas to create a smooth surface. Vacuum up any dust. It helps to wipe the wall down with a damp sponge again, letting it dry afterwards. Prime the wall. Before painting, apply primer to the wall. Use a paint roller to apply the paint primer of your choice, creating the perfect canvas for whatever paint you choose. Mix your joint compound. For this procedure, you need your joint compound to be like pancake batter. Even if you're using pre-mixed compound, you may need to add a little water to thin it out a bit. You can use a metal mixing attachment for a standard drill. You may need to mix water in batches, as this type of mixer often isn't strong enough to mix the whole bucket at once. Pick up the compound with a thick-napped paint roller. Pour some of the compound into a paint-rolling tray. Roll a paint roller into it, coating the roller in the compound. Try to get it on evenly. Roll the compound on the wall. Working around the room in small sections that are about 1 by 2 feet (0.30 by 0.61 m), use the paint roller to apply the compound to the wall. Move from top to bottom and overlap each section slightly. As you go, keep the edge wet that's the adjacent to the next section. If you need to, spray it down with a bit of water. Smooth the compound out with a trowel as you go. Moving up and down, create an even layer with a trowel. Smooth out each small section as you go; don't wait until the whole wall is finished. Get it as smooth as you can, but depending on how thick the texture is, this coat isn't likely to be very smooth. Let the joint compound dry. The joint compound needs to dry overnight before you apply the next coat. Once you get it smoothed out, leave it alone to dry. Sand as needed. If you see obvious areas that are rough or sticking up, you can try sanding them down a bit with medium-grit sandpaper. Vacuum up any dust, and wipe down the wall with a damp sponge to remove dust. Use a drywall sanding vacuum attachment to cut down on the mess. Try a 60- to 100-grit sandpaper. Repeat the layers as needed. Keep adding layers of joint compound to the wall, letting it dry in between coats. Sand when you need to. Add enough layers to hide the texture of the wall. You may need to do 3 to 5 layers to cover the texture. Sand the wall down with a light grit sandpaper. After you've got your texture covered up, run over the wall with a light grit sandpaper to smooth it out. Don't press down hard, as that will create more texture. Wipe it down with a damp sponge to remove dust, and vacuum up any dust left behind. Try a sandpaper in the 120- to 220-grit range. Apply primer to the wall. Now you need to prime the wall for painting. You can apply it with a paint roller, covering it evenly to create a smooth surface for your paint. | Cover the furniture in the room. Move furniture out if you're nervous about dust. Put tarps down on the floor. Protect yourself with safety gear. Spray a small area with water. Hold a floor scraper or drywall blade at a 30° angle. Scrape off the texture. Move around the room in small sections. Sand down the texture that's left behind. Wipe down the wall with a damp sponge. Apply joint compound over the wall with a wallboard knife. Sand the walls down again. Apply another round of joint compound. Sand again. Prime the wall. Mix your joint compound. Pick up the compound with a thick-napped paint roller. Roll the compound on the wall. Smooth the compound out with a trowel as you go. Let the joint compound dry. Sand as needed. Repeat the layers as needed. Sand the wall down with a light grit sandpaper. Apply primer to the wall. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Ride-Western | How to Ride Western | If you want to ride a horse Western-style, you'll need a Western saddle, rather than a European one. Mount the horse and sit deep in the saddle, with your back straight and your legs hanging freely down the sides of the horse, with your feet placed securely in the stirrups. Hold your reins with your non-dominant hand and keep your other arm loose at your side. When you want to turn right, gently touch the left rein to the horse's neck, and vice versa. Use your hips and seat to give steering signals to the horse, and pull back gently on the reins while saying “Whoa” to stop the horse. | Purchase a Western saddle. A Western saddle is larger and heavier than most English riding saddles. English saddles provide a closer contact with a horse's back, while a Western saddle can distribute the weight of a rider more evenly on the horse's back. Most Western saddles also have a horn in front to help with herding cattle. In general, Western saddles are deeper and more contoured than English saddles as well. If you want to ride Western, be sure that you are using a Western saddle and not an English saddle. You may want to use a Western saddle for trail rides that last longer than 4 hours since you may be more comfortable. Saddle your horse. Place the Western saddle on your horse to prepare your ride. Be sure that you place a saddle pad on your horse's back and secure all loose straps before attaching the saddle itself. Make sure the distance between your horse's elbow and the front cinch is about the width of 3 fingers to ensure a proper placement. Then you can connect the cinches and breast collar (if used) to secure your saddle. Use a Western bridle. There are many different kinds of bridles, used for different kinds of horse activities. However, in general, a Western bridle is less complicated than an English bridle and has fewer components. Western bridles often do not have a noseband and instead have a component that fits around the horse's ears or underneath the chin. Western reins can be split or connected with a handkerchief, but all Western reins can be held with a single hand. English bridles tend to use a snaffle bit, whereas Western bridles can involve either a snaffle bit or a curb bit. Sit deeply in the saddle. When you mount the horse, sit deeply on the saddle. You should sit immediately in front of the cantle (the back of the saddle that curves upward) but not be pressed tightly against it. Sit up straight and let your legs hang freely down the sides of the horse. A properly fitting Western saddle should have the bottom of the stirrups hitting your ankle bone. It might feel more secure to sit on the cantle. However, this is uncomfortable for your horse and you should move up a couple of inches. Sit up straight with relaxed arms. In order to be sure that your horse is comfortable and able to interpret your signals, be sure that you have good Western riding posture. Sit up straight with your legs securely in the stirrups. (Cowboy boots can help you remain in the stirrups properly.) Keep your legs hanging straight down from your hips--do not push them forward too far. Hold your reins with the non-dominant hand and keep your other arm loose at your side. Both arms should be at lap height or so. Do not raise your arms too high. Hold the reins in your non-dominant hand. Unlike English style horses, trained Western horses work without much contact. They have bits with longer shanks which work by placing pressure on the polls, rather than their mouths. You can therefore steer with light touches from the reins with a single hand. Hold the reins with your non-dominant hand so that you can use your dominant hand for other tasks, such as tying cattle or lassoing highway robbers. Use neck reining to steer. Neck reining guides your horse to move in the direction you want using a gentle touch instead of a pulling motion. Think of the motion as a gentle push (in the opposite direction) instead of a pull (in the same direction). This means that if you want the horse to turn left, gently touch the right rein to the horse's neck. If you want the horse to turn right, gently touch the left rein to the horse's neck. One helpful hint to do neck reining correctly is that you should steer your horse in the direction of the inside rein. If the left rein is inside, the horse will turn left. If the right rein is inside, the horse will turn right. The Western-trained horse is always trained to move away from the direction of the rein touch. Give steering signals with your hips and seat. Western-trained horses interpret even the subtlest of signals from a rider. If you look to your left and shift your hips accordingly, a trained Western horse will follow suit and turn left. English horses are steered much more actively with their reins, but if you want to ride Western, you will have to rely more on how you shift your weight and carry your body. Make sure that you do not lean your body, however. You want to remain upright and centered at all times. Use gentle shifts in your body weight to guide the horse. Know the difference between English and Western gaits. Both English and Western-trained horses have four gaits, two of which overlap. The English gaits (from slowest to fastest) are the walk, trot, canter, and gallop. The Western gaits (from slowest to fastest) are the walk, jog, lope, and gallop. A jog is a slightly slower version of the trot, and the lope is a looser form of the canter. Walk a horse. A walk is a slow, 4-beat natural gait. The Western walk is basically identical to an English walk. A proper walk involves the horse moving its legs forward in the following order: back left, front left, back right, front right. When you want your horse to walk, relax backwards, put your legs forward, and allow the horse to stretch its head down and out. In English you sit tall, but in Western you should round your back out slightly to keep you in your seat and keep your horse relaxed. Progress your horse into the jog. The next fastest gait is the jog, which is a 2-beat diagonal movement. A proper jog involves the horse moving its legs forward in the following order: back left and front right (simultaneously), back right and front left (simultaneously), etc. In order to get your horse to move from a walk to a jog, apply more leg pressure. In general, a jog is a trot movement that happens to be slower and cover more ground. Like a trot, a jog must be a two-beat movement where the horse moves one pair of diagonal legs, then the other. However, you should sit deeper and back a little further in the saddle than you would for a trot. If you like, you can post during a jog. Posting is when you move your body up and down in time with the horse's gait, and it is more common in English riding. However, there is a special posting trot in Western riding as well. Most of the time Western riders jog in the sitting position, however. Progress into a lope. Like the jog, a loping gait should be correct and flowing. It is a complicated gait, so it can take some time for your horse to learn it properly. It is a 3-beat gait in which the first beat is the outside hind leg, the second beat is the inside hind leg and outside foreleg simultaneously, and the final beat is the inside foreleg. Encourage your horse to lope by shifting your weight to the horse's outside hind leg (for the first beat) and use your leg to apply pressure to the outside of the horse. Keep it slow and controlled. If you need to shorten your reins in order to have more control, do so. Progress into a gallop. Galloping is not necessarily a gait you will use in Western horse shows. However, if you want your horse to move at great speed, you can use a cue to encourage your horse to gallop. Depending on how you've trained your horse, you can move your hand further up the horse's neck, make a purring noise, or squeeze your legs together slightly to cue a gallop. Use noise signals to change speeds. Some Western trained horses can speed up and slow down using noise signals. Many riders use the "kiss and click method," in which you click your tongue to ask for a jog and you smack your lips together to ask for a lope. Other horses might recognize voice commands. You can train your horse to respond to any simple sound as long as you remain consistent and ensure that the sounds do not resemble one another. Stop your horse with a gentle rein motion. Pull gently back on the reins while giving a voice command for stop, usually drag out "Whoa." At the same time, apply gentle leg pressure and sit deeply in your seat to encourage your horse to slow down. Do not ever yank on the reins. That can hurt the horse's mouth, especially with a Western style bit. | Purchase a Western saddle. Saddle your horse. Use a Western bridle. Sit deeply in the saddle. Sit up straight with relaxed arms. Hold the reins in your non-dominant hand. Use neck reining to steer. Give steering signals with your hips and seat. Know the difference between English and Western gaits. Walk a horse. Progress your horse into the jog. Progress into a lope. Progress into a gallop. Use noise signals to change speeds. Stop your horse with a gentle rein motion. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Work-Out-Salary-Increase-Percentage | How to Work Out Salary Increase Percentage | To work out salary increase percentage, start by subtracting your old salary from your new salary. Next, divide the salary difference by your old salary in order to turn the increase amount into a decimal. Then, multiply the decimal figure by 100 to turn the number expressed in decimal format into your salary increase percentage. If you're comparing two jobs, you may also want to consider comparing factors like insurance benefits and premiums, bonuses, commissions, retirement plans, and pensions. | Subtract your old salary from your new salary. Say you made $45,000 per year at your old job and that you accepted a new position making $50,000 per year. This means you would take $50,000 and subtract $45,000. $50,000 - $45,000 = $5,000. If you receive hourly pay and don't know your total yearly earnings, you can simply use the old and new hourly rate in place of the salary. For instance, if the raise was from $14/hour to $16/hour, then you would use $16 - $14 = $2. Divide the salary difference by your old salary. In order to turn the increase amount into a percentage, you must first calculate it as a decimal. To get the decimal you want, take the difference calculated in Step 1, and divide it by the amount of your old salary. Based on the example from Step 1, this would mean taking $5,000 and dividing it by $45,000. $5,000 / $45,000 = 0.111. If you're calculating the hourly percentage increase, this would still work the same way. From the previous hourly example, take $2 / $14 = 0.143 Multiply the decimal figure by 100. To turn a number expressed in a decimal format into a percentage, simply multiple it by 100. Using the previous example, you would multiply 0.111 by 100. 0.111 x 100 = 11.1% This means that the new salary of $50,000 is roughly 111.1% of the previous $45,000 salary or that you received an 11.1% increase. For the hourly rate example, you would still multiply the decimal number by 100. This would make the previous hourly example 0.143 x 100 = 14.3%. To check your work, multiply your original salary or hourly rate by the increase percentage. For example, if you multiply $45,000 x 1.111, the answer is is $49,995, which rounds up to $50,000. Likewise, $14 x 1.143 = $16.002. Factor in additional benefits if applicable. If you're comparing a new job at a new company rather than just a salary increase or promotion at your current company, then the salary might be just one part of the overall benefits package to consider. You'll have a wide range of other items to factor into your increased bottom line. Some of these items include: Insurance benefits/premiums - If both jobs offer employer-based insurance coverage, then you'll have to compare the coverage of the insurance plans. You'll also need to factor the premium (if applicable) taken out of your paycheck into your decision. Going from paying $100/month to $200/month in insurance premiums for the same coverage would negate some of your salary increase, for instance. Also consider the depth of the coverage (do they include dental or vision?), the overall yearly deductibles you may have to pay, etc. Bonuses or commissions - Though not part of your standard salary, don't forget to include bonuses and/or commissions in each calculation. The new salary might offer more each paycheck, but if your current job has the potential for quarterly bonuses, for instance, does the increase still pan out? Keep in mind that this amount may not be consistent because it will probably depend on your performance and/or the company's performance. Retirement plans - Most companies offer a 401k retirement plan that allows you to take pre-taxed wages and put them aside for your retirement. Many companies match up to a certain percentage of an employee's contribution to his or her personal 401k. If your current company does not match and your new company matches up to 6%, then that's essentially free additional money toward your retirement to consider. Pensions - Jobs that offer pensions for certain numbers of years of continuous service also require consideration. If your current position offers a great pension after twenty-five years, but the new position doesn't offer any type of pension, then you should consider that as well. A higher yearly salary might be more money immediately, but it's also worth considering the lifetime earning potential of each. However, keep in mind that pensions are not the norm today. They still exist, but they do not always pay out as expected. In some cases, the funds have been mismanaged and there is little or nothing left for people to retire on. Understand inflation. Inflation is an increase in the prices of goods and services, so it has an effect on your cost of living. High inflation, for instance, often means an increase in food, utility, and gas prices. People tend to buy less during periods of high inflation because these periods mean higher prices. Look up inflation. A wide range of factors determine the inflation of currency. In the U.S., the Department of Labor's Bureau of Labor Statistics releases a monthly report following and calculating inflation. You can find a month-by-month breakdown of U.S. inflation rates for the past fifteen years here. Subtract the inflation rate from your increase percentage. To determine the effect inflation has on your increased salary, simply subtract the rate of inflation from the increase percentage you calculated in Part 1. For example, the average inflation rate in 2014 was 1.6%. Using the 11.1% increase rate calculated in Part 1, you would determine the effect of inflation on the raise like so: 11.1% - 1.6% = 9.5%. This means that once you take into account the inflated prices of standard goods and services, the increase is only worth an extra 9.5% because the money is worth 1.6% less than the previous year. In other words, it took on average 1.6% more money in 2014 to buy the same items as in 2013. Relate the effect of inflation to purchasing power. Purchasing power refers to the comparative costs of goods and services over time. For instance, say you have the salary of $50,000 per year from Part 1. Now say that inflation stays at a flat 0% the year you get the raise, but rises 1.6% the following year without you receiving another raise. This means it will take you an additional 1.6% to purchase the same basic goods and services. 1.6% of $50,000 is equal to 0.016 x 50,000 = $800. Your overall purchasing power based on inflation actually decreased by $800 over the previous year. The Bureau of Labor Statistics has an easy-to-use calculator for comparing purchasing power between years. You can find it at: http://www.bls.gov/data/inflation_calculator.htm | Subtract your old salary from your new salary. Divide the salary difference by your old salary. Multiply the decimal figure by 100. Factor in additional benefits if applicable. Understand inflation. Look up inflation. Subtract the inflation rate from your increase percentage. Relate the effect of inflation to purchasing power. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Identify-an-Affenpinscher | How to Identify an Affenpinscher | One way to identify an Affenpinscher is to look for the distinctive eyebrows and “mustache” of long, thick fur covering the area between its mouth and nose. Look and see if its face is rounded and flat with a pushed in snout that all together looks kind of like a monkey's. If it is an Affenpinscher, the dog will keep its ears perked up at the top of its head, rather than flopped down along the sides. Another way to identify Affenpinschers is to check for an undershot bite, where its lower jaw sticks out past the upper jaw, showing its teeth. If you can, take some measurements of the dog, because an Affenpinscher should be about 10 to 15 inches tall and 7 to 8 pounds. | Look for a moustache. The Affenpinscher has prominent eyebrows and a “mustache” of thick fur that covers the entire area between its mouth and nose. The mustache consists of a much longer and thicker coat of fur than is present on the rest of the head. This unusual feature is one of the easiest ways to recognize an Affenpinscher. Look for a face that resembles a monkey. The Affenpinscher's face is rounded and flat. The snout should be short and pushed in like that of a pug. Many people say that it looks like a monkey. Look for small, perky ears. An Affenpinscher's ears vary somewhat, but they are generally short and stand up straight. They should not be long or flop down along the side of its head. Find rounded, dark eyes. An Affenpinscher's eyes should be round and dark. Its eye rims should be black. This sometimes is not a reliable aspect as the eyes are generally hidden. Look for an undershot bite. The Affenpinscher should have an undershot bite, which means that the lower jaw protrudes out past the upper jaw. The dog should have a prominent, black lower lip that covers the tongue and teeth. The teeth should be straight and even. Look for a dense, rough coat. Like most terriers, the Affenpinscher has wiry fur. It is harsh to the touch, dense, and about 1 inch (2.54 cm) long. The fur should be slightly longer and less rough around the head, chest, stomach, and legs. Look for the little guy. The Affenpinscher is typically 10-15 inches (25.4-38.1 cm) tall. It generally weighs 7-8 lbs (around 3 kg). Unlike some other small dogs, though, the Affenpinscher's body is proportional. Its head and legs look neither abnormally small or large for its body. Watch for a bold, stubborn little guy. Despite its size, the Affenpinscher is intimidated by no one. It is very willful, stubborn, and unlikely to back down. Although it can be trained, it is far less amenable to training than some other breeds. Notice mischievous behavior. The Affenpinscher is generally known to be playful. It even seems sometimes, to be mischievous and funny--an extension, perhaps, of its unruly behavior. Although it likes to cause trouble, it is not generally aggressive. Look for love and affection. The Affenpinscher is a bad boy with a heart of gold. Though it likes to cause trouble, it is generally quite loving and takes to its owners. It will frequently seek attention and affection. Buy a dog from a reputable breeder with a pedigree. Pure-bred dogs should have a pedigree which records the dog's family for at least four generations. The pedigree might include the physical features of family members and dog show awards that they have won. A reputable breeder should be willing to show you the pedigree and ought to know all the pertinent information by heart. Ask a veterinarian to recommended a reputable breeder. Look for a reputable breeder on the American Kennel Club website. Breeders may advertise available puppies in the AKC marketplace. A good breeder ought to let you see where the dogs are raised. The mother should be on-site, and you should be able to meet her. Verify that the space is clean and comfortable. The breeder should also be able to provide veterinary records for the mother and any care the puppies may have received. Reputable breeders do not sell all breeds and cannot provide dogs on demand. They typically require that you put your name on a wait list. They specialize in a couple of breeds. Ideally, they can prove that they are involved in clubs and have won awards for those specific breeds. Ask your veterinarian about the breed. Most veterinarians should be familiar enough with dog breeds to be able to tell you if yours is a purebred Affenpinscher. If it is a mixed-breed dog, however, they might have more difficulty saying with certainty if it is part Affenpinscher. Buy a DNA test. Several companies offer DNA tests that can determine the breed of your dog. They might not be perfect when determining the various stands in a mixed-breed dog. However, they should be able to determine if your dog is exclusively or predominately an Affenpinscher. Not all breed tests are created equal. Some companies spend more time on research and quality control than others. Before purchasing a test, do your research and choose a company you trust. You may consider discussing the topic with your veterinarian. The DNA test can be purchased online. A kit will be sent to your house with instructions on to collect the DNA. | Look for a moustache. Look for a face that resembles a monkey. Look for small, perky ears. Find rounded, dark eyes. Look for an undershot bite. Look for a dense, rough coat. Look for the little guy. Watch for a bold, stubborn little guy. Notice mischievous behavior. Look for love and affection. Buy a dog from a reputable breeder with a pedigree. Ask your veterinarian about the breed. Buy a DNA test. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Prevent-Osteoporosis | How to Prevent Osteoporosis | To prevent osteoporosis, grow and maintain healthy bones by eating more calcium, which can be found in dairy products, kale, and fortified cereals. Since your body needs vitamin D to absorb calcium, eat fatty fish, drink fortified milk, or spend 5 to 15 minutes in the sun every day. Additionally, eat more magnesium, which can be found in whole grains, nuts, and leafy greens. Along with dietary changes, strengthen your bones by getting 30 minutes of exercise, like running, hiking, gardening, or dancing, 5 times a week. | Consume more calcium in order to begin with healthy bones. Getting sufficient calcium is the single most important thing you can do to grow healthy bones and maintain bone strength. Many Americans, especially women, do not get enough calcium in their daily diets. The recommended daily intake of calcium varies depending on your age and sex. Adult males under 70 should consume at least 1,000mg of calcium per day. Men over 70 should consume at least 1,200mg per day. Adult females under 50 should consume at least 1,000mg of calcium per day. Women over 50 should consume at least 1,200mg per day. Pregnant or lactating women should consume at least 1,300mg of calcium daily. Calcium is available in dietary supplements. The two main forms are calcium carbonate and calcium citrate. Calcium carbonate should be taken with food. Calcium citrate can be helpful for those with inflammatory bowel disease or absorption disorders, as it does not require food. If you get enough calcium from your diet, don't take calcium supplements unless recommended by your doctor. Too much calcium may have unpleasant side effects, including the possibility of kidney stones. Magnesium is an important mineral for bone and overall body health. Foods rich in magnesium include whole grains, nuts, and green leafy vegetables. However, magnesium competes with calcium for absorption, and if your calcium levels are already low it may cause a calcium deficiency. If you get enough calcium in your diet, you probably don't have to worry about magnesium having a negative effect. Choose dietary sources of calcium. You're less likely to consume too much calcium if you get your daily intake from dietary sources. These sources may also be more easily absorbed by your body. Dairy products such as milk, cheese, and yogurt are very rich sources of calcium. Milk is often also enriched with vitamins A and D. Fortified soy milk also provides calcium, as do other calcium-fortified beverages like juice. Vegetable sources rich in calcium include turnip greens, Chinese cabbage (bok choy), kale, and broccoli. Surprisingly, spinach is not as good a source of calcium, because its “bioavailability” (how the body extracts the nutrient) is low due to its oxalic acid content. Canned sardines are a good source of calcium because you eat the bones. Sardines are also an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which promote things like brain health. They contain vitamin D, which helps your body absorb calcium. Many cereals are fortified with calcium. Choose whole-grain breakfast cereals that have been fortified with calcium and other nutrients and are low in sugar. Consume more vitamin D. Vitamin D helps improve your body's ability to absorb calcium, and is necessary for bone growth. Men and women under 70 should get at least 600IU of vitamin D daily; people over 70 should increase this to 800IU daily. Vitamin D does not occur naturally in many foods. Fatty fish, such as swordfish, salmon, tuna, and mackerel are the best sources of natural vitamin D (and also provide omega-3 fatty acids). Beef liver, cheese, and egg yolks contain small amounts of vitamin D. Milk is commonly fortified with vitamins A and D. Many beverages (such as orange juice) and cereals are also enriched with vitamin D. You can check the nutritional content of many foods by consulting the USDA National Nutrient Database here. Vitamin D is also available as a dietary supplement. It is available in two forms, D2 and D3. Both seem equally potent in regular doses, although D2 may be less potent in high doses. For people who live in areas with less sunshine or who have dark skin, taking higher doses of vitamin D supplements may be necessary. It is rare to develop vitamin D toxicity through supplements. Watch your salt intake. Very high sodium consumption increases the amount of calcium excreted in your urine. Aim to consume no more than 2,400mg of sodium per day. Canned and processed foods tend to be high in salt; look for “reduced sodium” or “no salt added” labels. Be aware of phytates. Phytates, or phytic acid, interfere with your body's ability to absorb calcium from the foods you eat. They're commonly found in grains and legumes, such as wheat bran and beans, as well as nuts like hazelnuts, walnuts, almonds, and cashews. These foods are very good for you, so this doesn't mean you shouldn't eat them. There are some things you can do to reduce the phytate level in the foods you eat. Soak dried beans in water for several hours, then cook them in fresh water. If you eat 100% wheat bran, it should be consumed 2 or more hours before or after taking calcium supplements. Fermentation and malting reduce phytate levels, so breads such as sourdough or other types that use fermented or malted grains pose no problems to calcium absorption. Get enough protein. Many older adults don't get enough protein in their diets. About 50% of your bone volume is made of protein. Adult women should get at least 46 grams of protein daily, while adult men should get at least 56 grams daily. However, extremely high-protein diets such as the “Atkins diet” may be associated with increased risk of osteoporosis or bone fracture. Some other studies indicate that high-protein diets don't have any effect on bone health, but it's best to consume protein (and all things) in moderation. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables, especially those high in potassium, to counteract any negative effects on calcium absorption from protein consumption. Protein sources that are also rich in calcium and vitamin D, such as fatty fish, are a smart choice. Animal protein that is high in saturated fat, such as red meat and dairy, can cause health issues if over consumed. Get your protein from a variety of sources, including lean meats, eggs, and vegetables and whole grains. Limit your soft drink consumption. A common piece of osteoporosis lore is that soft drinks cause bone loss. Studies are not clear about the link between soft drinks and bone health, but caffeine in sodas and coffee may be associated with bone loss. Phosphorous, a common ingredient in some colas, may also have an effect. While these effects are not yet fully understood, it's still a good idea to limit your soft drink consumption. Choose healthy beverages such as milk and calcium-fortified drinks more often. Limit your soft drink consumption to less than 2 cans (roughly 24 ounces) a day. Your overall caffeine intake should be less than 400mg per day. If you need a caffeine boost, black tea has not been shown to impact bone density. Watch your alcohol consumption. Heavy drinking is unhealthy for many reasons, and it can cause bone loss. Being intoxicated may also put you at a higher risk of breaking a bone. The National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism states that “low-risk” or “moderate” drinking is the safest way to avoid damage to your health from alcohol. This is defined as no more than 3 drinks on a given day, and no more than 7 per week for women. For men, it's no more than 4 drinks on a given day, and no more than 14 per week. Get regular exercise. Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining bone health, as well as your overall health. People who are bedridden or spend most of the day sitting or otherwise inactive are at a higher risk for developing osteoporosis. People who get regular weight-bearing exercise in addition to daily activity have higher bone density on average. Exercises that require you to move your body weight around help promote bone growth. Get at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. Females reach peak bone mass earlier, and have a lower threshold, than males. Exercise is especially important for women. The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons recommend activities like brisk walking, hiking, aerobics, tennis, and weight training to help build and maintain bone mass. While fantastic for cardiovascular health, exercises such as swimming and biking don't require you to move your body weight, so they're not as good for building bone. Other activities that are good for your bones include: Jogging (but not running, which can put too much pressure on your joints) Heavy yard work and gardening Team sports like basketball, baseball, and soccer Dancing Racquet sports like squash Skiing and skating Karate Stop smoking. Smoking is harmful to every part of your body, including your bones. Smoking is associated with a higher risk of developing osteoporosis. If you smoke, quitting quickly decreases your risk for many diseases. Don't think that because you've smoked for years that you're “too old” or the “damage is already done.” While it's true that smoking can cause irreversible harm to your health, quitting produces immediate benefits, such as reducing your heart rate and blood pressure. Your risk of heart attack can begin to drop within just 24 hours, with full effects within 1-2 years. Your lungs can begin to return to their healthy state in just 1-9 months. It's never too late to quit. Spend time outdoors. In addition to consuming vitamin D in foods, you can boost your vitamin D levels by spending time in the sunshine. Ultraviolet rays trigger vitamin D synthesis in your body. Spending time outdoors getting exercise will also help promote bone health. Use a sunscreen with a broad-spectrum SPF factor of at least 15 whenever you spend time outside. You can usually spend about 5-15 minutes outside without sunscreen to get enough vitamin D and not increase your risk of skin cancer significantly. People with higher levels of melanin in their skin have darker skin, and have less ability to produce vitamin D from sunlight. Prevent falls. Falls are a leading cause of bone breakage, especially among older adults. You can take some actions to reduce your risk of falling, such as: Using a cane or walker if you need it Wearing sturdy, rubber-soled non-slip shoes Salting icy steps and walks Keeping your home clutter-free Keeping your home well-lit Using a non-slip bath mat or rubber adhesives in the bath or shower Increased alcohol consumption is also associated with a higher risk of falling. Consume alcohol in moderation. Know what risk factors you can’t change. There are some risk factors for developing osteoporosis that you can't do anything about. Studies suggest that the following groups are at a higher risk for osteoporosis: Women, especially post-menopausal women or women who have had hysterectomies White and Asian people Short or small-framed people, especially thin people People with a family history of osteoporosis Older people Know what risk factors you can change. You can take the steps in this article to affect many of these risk factors. People have a higher risk of osteoporosis if they: Have anorexia nervosa Don't get enough calcium and vitamin D Have low estrogen and/or testosterone levels Use certain medications, such as corticosteroids Don't get enough weight-bearing activity Smoke Drink too much alcohol Ask your doctor about your medications. Some medications, such as corticosteroids like prednisone, decrease your body's absorption of calcium through the intestines. If you have other risk factors for osteoporosis, speak with your doctor to determine a safe dosage. Taking the lowest possible dose for the shorted time will decrease inflammation without increasing your risk of osteoporosis as much. If you must continue to take corticosteroids or are otherwise at high-risk for osteoporosis, ask your doctor about medications that can help treat or prevent osteoporosis. Medications include ibandronate (Boniva), alendronate (Fosamax), risedronate sodium (Actonel), and zoledronic acid (Reclast). Hormones including estrogen products may also reduce your risk of developing osteoporosis. Get a bone density test. A bone density test will check your bone strength by using X-rays, ultrasound, or tomography to determine the mineral levels in your bones. It doesn't hurt. You should get a bone density test if your doctor recommends it or if: You are a woman aged 65 or older You are a postmenopausal woman under 65 with risk factors for osteoporosis You are man aged 70 or older You are a man aged 50-69 with risk factors for osteoporosis You have a medical condition associated with osteoporosis, such as autoimmune disorders or endocrine/hormonal disorders or have other reasons for being at high-risk for osteoporosis | Consume more calcium in order to begin with healthy bones. Choose dietary sources of calcium. Consume more vitamin D. Watch your salt intake. Be aware of phytates. Get enough protein. Limit your soft drink consumption. Watch your alcohol consumption. Get regular exercise. Stop smoking. Spend time outdoors. Prevent falls. Know what risk factors you can’t change. Know what risk factors you can change. Ask your doctor about your medications. Get a bone density test. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-for-a-U.S.-Visa-from-Canada | How to Apply for a U.S. Visa from Canada | To apply for a U.S. visa from Canada, first decide which type of visa you'll need. For example, if you're traveling to the U.S. for work, you should apply for a non-immigrant visa. Alternatively, if you're the fiance of an American citizen, you should apply for a K-1 visa. To complete the online application, visit the visa information website for the U.S. Embassy in Canada and click apply. After you fill in your information, you'll need to upload a recent photo of yourself, pay the $160 visa fee, and attend an in-person interview at a U.S. consulate. | Apply for a non-immigrant visa if you are traveling into the U.S. for work. If you're not planning to move to the U.S., but work across the American border, you'll need to apply for a non-immigrant visa. Other conditions under which you'd need to apply for a non-immigrant visa include: Apply for an A visa if you're a Canadian government official entering the U.S. for a work assignment. Apply for a G visa if you're an employee of an international organization entering the U.S. for a work assignment. Apply for a non-immigrant visa if you're a NATO employee being assigned to work in the U.S. Select an E visa if you’re a treaty trader or investor. If you're a business investor or making a trade with an American business in the field of either commerce or navigation, you'll need to hold an E visa. This visa allows you to represent Canada or a Canadian business during a trip to the U.S. Treaty traders must apply for an E-1 visa, while treaty investors must apply for an E-2 visa. Choose a K-1 visa if you’re a fiancé of an American citizen. Specifically, these visas are issued if a Canadian citizen is traveling to the U.S. to marry an American citizen. After the wedding, holders of a K-1 visa will also be able to apply for permanent legal U.S. citizenship. As a part of the fiancé visa application process, you'll need to fill out form I-129F. Access more information and the form itself online at: https://www.uscis.gov/i-129f. All fiancé visa interviews must be held in Montreal. So, you'll need to travel to Montreal for the interview portion of your interview application. Opt for a V-1 visa if you’re married to a permanent American resident. If you're married to an American citizen—or permanent legal resident—and trying to legally immigrate to the U.S., apply for the V-1 visa. This visa is designed to permit families to remain together, if 1 member of the family is already a U.S. resident and the rest of the family members are applying for legal residency. When applying for a V-1 visa, you'll also need to fill out Forms I-539 and I-693. Find links to the forms, and learn more, at: https://www.uscis.gov/family/family-green-card-holders-permanent-residents/v-visa/v-nonimmigrant-visas. Your children will need to have an application for a V-2 visa filled out in their name(s) as well. Begin the application process online. You can apply for any type of nonimmigrant visa online. Navigate to: https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-ca/niv. Click on the “Apply” link. You'll be asked to answer a number of questions regarding your citizenship status and reason for entering the U.S. From this site, you can also continue an existing application that you've previously worked on and saved. Fill out the Online Visa Application form DS-160. This is the standard form which must be filled out by all Canadian visa seekers. The DS-160 will require you to provide various personal information, including your name, date of birth, and reason for applying for a particular visa. When completing the form, you'll need to refer to your passport and your resume or CV. You'll also need to know the dates of your 5 most recent trips to the U.S. (if applicable). You can access the DS-160 application form online at: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/. To see a sample DS-160 form before beginning your online application, visit: https://travel.state.gov/content/dam/visas/PDF-other/DS-160_Example.pdf. As part of the DS-160 online filing process, you'll also select the consulate at which you'd like to have your interview. Upload a photograph of yourself with the application. A photograph is a required part of your visa application. The photo must be in color, and you cannot be wearing eyeglasses in the photo. Make sure that your face is not obscured and your expression is neutral. The background must be white or off-white, and the photo should have been taken within the last 6 months. If you don't have a current digital photo, you can take one using a smartphone, then upload it to the computer on which you're filling out your visa application. Or, visit a professional photography agency. Make the required online payment when submitting the visa application. Before you're permitted to submit your visa application—including the DS-160 form—you'll be asked to pay the standard application processing fee. You can pay online using an American Express, Visa, or MasterCard credit card. The fee is for $160 USD. Appear for an in-person interview at a U.S. Consulate. To be granted a visa, you'll need to be interviewed by a consular official at one of the Consulates. You're free to schedule the appointment at whichever of the Consulate locations is closest to you. Once you've completed the DS-160 form, telephone one of the Consulates to set up an interview. When you arrive at the interview, bring the confirmation page that shows you have submitted the DS-160 form. You'll have received this form as soon as you submit the completed DS-160. You can find American Consulate telephone numbers online at: https://www.usembassy.gov/. Type “Canada” into the search bar, and scroll down to find the Consulate location you're closest to. If you pass the interview, the consulate staff will issue you your visa. | Apply for a non-immigrant visa if you are traveling into the U.S. Select an E visa if you’re a treaty trader or investor. Choose a K-1 visa if you’re a fiancé of an American citizen. Opt for a V-1 visa if you’re married to a permanent American resident. Begin the application process online. Fill out the Online Visa Application form DS-160. Upload a photograph of yourself with the application. Make the required online payment when submitting the visa application. Appear for an in-person interview at a U.S. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Nice-Nails | How to Get Nice Nails | It only takes a few minutes every few weeks to keep your nails looking nice. Start by trimming them with nail clippers or nail scissors. Remember to leave a sliver of white on the ends for a prettier manicure and so the skin underneath doesn't get sore. After cutting your nails, file them with a nail file to smooth the edges. Then, soak your nails in warm water for a few minutes to soften them and make your cuticles easier to push back. Cuticles are the small layers of skin at the back of your nails. Once your nails are soft, buff the surfaces with a nail buffer to make them smooth and shiny. Finally, push back your cuticles gently with a cuticle pusher or an orange stick. | Stop biting your nails. Biting your nails keeps them from growing strong. When you bite them off you're actually tearing the nail, which weakens it all the way to the nail bed. The saliva from your mouth also softens your nails, making them more prone to getting torn or broken. Biting your nails is a habit that's hard to break, but it's the first major step to having nice-looking nails! You can buy products that will keep you from biting your nails by making them taste funny. Reward yourself for a job well done by giving yourself an amazing manicure when you've let your nails grow for a couple of weeks without biting them. Try not to use your nails as tools. Do you tend to use your nails to scrape stickers off of bottles, pop open cans, and perform other tasks? This puts stress on your nails that leads to them cracking and getting weaker. While it's impossible to completely stop using your nails as tools - after all, that's why you have them in the first place! - being more mindful of how you use your nails can help save them from getting banged up. Avoid scraping nail polish off the surface of your nails. If you tend to pick off your nail polish, please stop. This tears up the surface of your nails, making them fragile and easy to break. When you're done with your manicure, remove the polish in a gentle way. You'll notice a big difference. Don't use abrasive products on your nails. If your nails are naturally prone to breaking, using harsh products on them is going to make the situation a lot worse. For example, acetone, the ingredient that strips nail polish from nails, is extremely drying and can make nails start to chip if you use it too often. Even nail polish usually has ingredients that can be harsh on your nails. Give them a break for a few weeks to recover from products - they'll grow back in strong and shiny. An alternative to harsh, drying polishes are water based nail polishes which use water as a base instead of drying chemicals. Dish soap and other detergents can be tough on nails. Wear gloves when you're cleaning your house or dishes. Use a moisturizing hand soap when you wash your hands. Apply lotion or oil to your hands and nails. In order to combat dryness, regularly apply some lotion or oil to your hands. Almond oil and jojoba oil are particularly good for nails. This will protect your nails from drying chemicals and extreme temperatures that typically lead to damage. You can also use nail strengtheners with vitamins in them. Avoid using mineral or baby oil, which will only coat your nails rather than moisturize. If you work outside in the elements, it's especially important to use lotion. Protecting your hands and nails with gloves or mittens will also be a big help. Eat nutritious foods. If your diet is lacking certain nutrients, that'll show up in your nails. It can cause them to look dry, ridged, or even discolored, and it leads to more breakage than usual. The solution? Eat plenty of foods that contain the vitamins and minerals your body needs to produce healthy nails. As a bonus, the same foods will do wonders for your hair, too! Eat plenty of protein, since this is what nails are made of. Fish, poultry, pork, spinach, and beans are all good sources of protein. Eat foods rich in biotin, the B vitamin, which is found in nuts, fish, eggs and liver. Eat zinc and vitamin C. Also eat foods rich in calcium. Trim your nails regularly. Every few weeks, you should trim your nails using nail clippers or a nail scissors. If you're growing long nails, be sure to file the edges once a week to keep cracks from forming. Don't trim your nails too short. Leave at least a sliver of white crescents on your nails. This will let them grow stronger and result in a much prettier manicure. File your nails. Use a nail file to smooth away any rough areas at the tips of the nail. Only file in one direction using a light motion. Try not to make them too round, because that puts you at risk for getting ingrown nails! Using a crystal file can cause less damage than rougher grained sandpaper files. Don't file using a back and forth motion. This weakens your nails and rips up the fibers. Instead, file in only one direction, being careful not to apply too much pressure. Soak your nails. This will soften them up so you can push back your cuticles and file them. Soak them in warm water. You can add a little oil if you'd like, to help soften your nails and cuticles. Be careful not to do this too often, wet nails expand and shrink when dry, this can cause cracks to form over time. Buff your nails. Use a nail buffer to buff the surface of your nails. Start with the coarsest side of the buffer, then move to the finest. Your nails should be shiny when you're finished. Push back your cuticles. Use a cuticle pusher to gently push the cuticles toward the nail beds. Don't push them back too much, and take care not to rip or tear them. Never trim your cuticles with a cuticle trimmer; this leaves an open wound at the base of your nails, making you prone to getting an infection. Keep them maintained. When your nails are the desired length, just file or clip the nail every now and then to maintain its shape and stop the nails from growing too long. Start with a base coat. Get a bottle of clear or natural nail varnish and give every nail a coat of polish. Alternatively, if you have fragile, brittle, or weak nails you can use a nail hardener instead of clear varnish. Let it dry completely before moving on. Paint your nails with polish. Choose the polish color you like and apply it carefully to each nail. Using the right painting technique will help your nails look like they were done by a professional. Here's how to do it: Dip your brush in the bottle and brush it against the opening so that you have one small drop of polish on the end of the brush. Too much polish will result in a mess. Paint a vertical stroke in the middle of your nail first nail - usually your thumb. Start at the base and paint all the way to the tip. Paint another stroke on the left side, and one on the right side. Re-dip the brush if necessary. Blend with more vertical strokes. Continue with the rest of your nails until they're all painted. Do a second coat. Depending on what color nail polish you used, you might want to do a second coat to make it look completely opaque. Make sure the first coat is completely dry first. Add a top coat. After the polish is completely dry, add one more clear topcoat. This will seal your manicure so it doesn't chip for a week or two. Remove the polish when it's time. When the nail varnish starts to chip beyond repair, use a gentle nail polish remover to get rid of the nail polish. Make sure the remover does not contain acetone and be very gentle. Instead of acetone, look for a remover that contains ethyl acetate. If you are using a water based nail polish keep in mind that removers for conventional polishes won't work; you will need to buy a remover specifically made for water based polishes. Be careful when removing polish, harsh scrubbing will damage the nails. Giving your nails a break after you remove the polish is a good idea. Wait a week or two before painting them again. | Stop biting your nails. Try not to use your nails as tools. Avoid scraping nail polish off the surface of your nails. Don't use abrasive products on your nails. Apply lotion or oil to your hands and nails. Eat nutritious foods. Trim your nails regularly. File your nails. Soak your nails. Buff your nails. Push back your cuticles. Keep them maintained. Start with a base coat. Paint your nails with polish. Do a second coat. Add a top coat. Remove the polish when it's time. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-With-Teachers-That-Take-Your-Personal-Items-Away | How to Deal With Teachers That Take Your Personal Items Away | If you have a teacher that takes your personal items away, you can deal with them by being polite and knowing your rights. At the end of class, apologize when you ask for your item back, because complaining or getting upset might cause them to keep it longer. If you think your teacher is being unfair when taking your things, read the school's rulebook and tell an adult whenever your teacher tries to take something and you haven't broken any rules. Additionally, know that a teacher can only search the content on your phone if they think that you've broken a specific rule and there might be evidence on your phone. | Come to class prepared and ready to pay attention. Show up to class ready to learn. During class make sure to sit up, face forward, and always listen when your teacher is talking. Furthermore, have everything you'll need when you arrive to class, including your completed homework and everything you need to take notes or work on class materials. Always do your best on in-class assignments. Even if you're struggling in a certain class, your teacher will be happy to see you making an effort. Keep your phone in your locker. Don't use your phone at all when you're in class. In fact, many schools explicitly allow teachers to take phone away from students who are using them during class. If you must bring your phone to class, make sure it is off or on silent and stored out of sight in a backpack or underneath your desk. Recognize that using your phone during class is disrespectful to your teacher, your fellow classmates, and even yourself, as you're making it less likely that you and your classmates are fully focusing on the lesson. Be extra polite during class. Some teachers are particularly sensitive about students' behavior during their class. Be especially polite in classes taught by a teacher that gets irritated easily - these are probably the teachers that are most likely to go on a tirade about the lack of manners among today's youth and start taking everybody's stuff. Try to raise your hand and ask a question at least once per class, to show that you're engaged in the lesson and that you value your teacher's contribution to your education. Hand over the item if you broke a rule with it. Recognize that most teachers are not looking to get their students in trouble. It is simply their job to ensure that you and your classmates are able to learn, free from danger or distraction. For instance, if you were caught texting in class, understand that the teacher can fairly ask to take your phone and will simply put it somewhere safe, but out of your reach. Do not argue with your teachers in front of your classmates. Apologize for distracting the class and hand them the item. Ask for the item back after class. The more mature you were when they asked for it, the easier it will be to get it back. Ask for any items your teacher took immediately after class. If you had been texting or otherwise breaking a rule, apologize and promise not to do so again. Be polite, as you do not want to get in further trouble, and you want your teacher to give you your item back without further conflict. Try something like: “I apologize for allowing myself to get distracted during class. I'll bring my phone to my locker and leave it there the rest of the day.” If they say they're going to keep it for the rest of the day, return after school and ask again. If you phone is taken and not returned at the end of the day, tell a teacher you trust or a parent or guardian. Take action if a teacher only ever takes your things. You may need to talk to another school employee if a teacher is treating you unfairly. If your teacher only ever takes your stuff, or threatens to do so but does not make similar threats to other students, recognize that this is an issue that needs to be addressed. Ideally, talk directly to the teacher about why you are being treated differently by asking whether you have been behaving inappropriately during class. If you feel uncomfortable having this type of conversation with the teacher, or try to do so and it does not go well, meet with the principal or a teacher you trust to talk about it. Familiarize yourself with your school’s rules. Read through your school's student handbook if you're curious about what you're allowed to bring to have at school. Knowing the rules will also help you deal with a teacher that has threatened to take something away from you. Stated most simply: the easiest way to avoid having a teacher take your things away is to avoid breaking the rules that may cause them to do so! Defend yourself when you haven’t broken any rules or a teacher is being unfair. In the event a teacher may have done or threatened something without your breaking any rules, point out that you haven't broken any rules. This will only work if you know the rules. Alternatively, if you broke a minor rule that does not warrant they take your item, you can calmly point this out and say something like, “I'm sorry for the distraction, I'll put this away right now and it won't be an issue again.” If you refuse to give up a possession, know that your teacher cannot forcibly take anything from you. However, refusal to turn in an item with which you were breaking a rule may lead to further punishment down the line. Notify another adult immediately if a teacher behaves inappropriately. You must obey the rules when you're at school. A teacher must also enforce the school's rules. However, if a teacher ever does anything that you believe they may not be allowed to do, tell someone right away. Your teacher's actions must also follow the school's rules, and must be based on safety and education. A teacher can never use force against you or another student. A teacher cannot break any of your possessions. If a school official does not respond to your claims, ask to call a parent or guardian immediately. If the school does not allow you to make a call, tell an adult you trust – whether another teacher or a parent or guardian – everything that occurred as soon as possible. Talk to an older sibling or an adult family member if you're unsure about how something that happened and don't know whether you should tell others. Prove you didn’t do anything wrong. Keep in mind that if you can prove that you are not guilty of something, it is likely worth showing your teacher the proof. A teacher or administrator cannot force you to consent to a search. You can always say no or ask to call your parents. However, if you have nothing to hide, consider allowing a teacher access to your possessions briefly. School officials can only search you or your possessions if they have reasonable, individualized suspicion of your involvement in breaking a rule. They may also conduct a search if you voluntarily consent to their doing so. Reasons for reasonable suspicion include a school employee overhearing something, or seeing or smelling something directly. Suspicion that warrants a search must also be specific to you. For instance, if your friend has gotten into trouble and they want to search your possessions as well, they cannot search your belongings unless there is specific evidence that incriminates you. Don’t keep anything that’s not allowed at school in your locker. Know that lockers are usually considered school property. Accordingly, schools can search your locker at any time with or without any sort of suspicion. If your cell phone or computer are in your locker, they cannot be searched without reasonable, individualized suspicion, your consent, or a warrant. Keep large amounts of cash at home. Having large amounts of cash with you may make teachers or other school employees curious or concerned about why you have it. Try to plan purchases that may require a large amount of cash outside of school so as not to put you or your teachers in an uncomfortable situation. Plan large purchases for the weekend, and have a parent accompany you when handling large amounts of cash. If you do need to bring a large amount of cash to school for an after-school purchase, keep it somewhere locked up and don't tell anyone about it. Be ready to tell a teacher or administrator why you have a large amount of cash at school. For instance, if you intend to buy a bike from a friend after school, be honest and tell your teacher the specifics of the arrangement. Get help if you believe your rights have been violated. Contact the American Civil Liberties Union to discuss a potential violation of your rights and any legal action that may be appropriate. More commonly, the ACLU can work with your school to ensure the rights of students are not violated without resorting to legal action. Write down everything that happened during any situation where you believe your rights may have been violated. Include when incidents occurred, who was involved, and who was around. Include specifics, such as everything that was said and by whom, as well as anything that you were asked or made to do. Know that a teacher usually cannot search the content on your phone. If your school does not allow cell phones, then a school employee can take your phone, maybe even until the end of the day. However, if you were simply texting or talking on your phone in a context that was not allowed by the school, they cannot look at any of the contents on your phone. If a teacher or administrator asks for your permission, you do not have to allow them to search your phone. A cell phone search is only legal if there is reasonable suspicion of your personal involvement in breaking a specific rule at the school. Even then, a school employee can only look at what is necessary to confirm or the dispel the suspicion. It is illegal for a school employee to use your phone to call or text other students while posing as you. Know that laptops are more likely to be legally searched. If you are not allowed to bring laptops to school and do so, they are likely allowed to take it until the end of the day. Whether or not they are allowed to search a personal laptop that you are not allowed to have at school is more of a legal grey area that is undetermined in most places. If your school allows laptops, a teacher may only search it for reasonable suspicion of your wrongdoing. Files unrelated to something they may have the right to look for cannot be copied, or even viewed. For instance, if you have been accused of sending threatening emails, the school has the right to ensure that this is not occurring. However, they may not look at photos on your personal laptop while investigating the charge, as photos are not relevant to the accusation. Recognize the legal differences regarding searches of your own property and your school’s property. A school employee can take a school-owned laptop from you for any reason whatsoever. They can also legally search the laptop's contents. Similarly, you may be required to give a teacher your password to a school-sponsored email account. If a teacher demands you give them the password to a personal email account or device unaffiliated with the school, you do not have to give it to them. To ensure your privacy, store and send personal messages from personal devices while you're not at school. Deal with law enforcement appropriately. If a police officer - sometimes referred to as a School Resource Officer – asks to search you or your possessions, know that laws regarding your rights are slightly different. Essentially, law enforcement officers need a warrant or your consent to conduct a search. Still, you should always be polite when speaking with an officer, if only to limit the time you have to interact with them. Calmly ask an officer who wants to search you or your personal belongings – including a phone or computer – whether they have a warrant. Ask if you are free to leave. You will likely be able to do so, unless the officer has evidence or reasonable suspicion that you have committed or intend to commit a crime. Tell the officer you would like your parent or a lawyer to be present if they begin to ask you questions you do not want to answer. If a search is conducted without your consent, clearly state that you do not consent by saying, “I do not consent to a search of my property.” If you do not know what to do or say, know that you always have the right to remain silent. | Come to class prepared and ready to pay attention. Keep your phone in your locker. Be extra polite during class. Hand over the item if you broke a rule with it. Ask for any items your teacher took immediately after class. Take action if a teacher only ever takes your things. Familiarize yourself with your school’s rules. Defend yourself when you haven’t broken any rules or a teacher is being unfair. Notify another adult immediately if a teacher behaves inappropriately. Prove you didn’t do anything wrong. Don’t keep anything that’s not allowed at school in your locker. Keep large amounts of cash at home. Get help if you believe your rights have been violated. Know that a teacher usually cannot search the content on your phone. Know that laptops are more likely to be legally searched. Recognize the legal differences regarding searches of your own property and your school’s property. Deal with law enforcement appropriately. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Diarrhea-in-Hamsters | How to Treat Diarrhea in Hamsters | To treat diarrhea in hamsters, try temporarily eliminating fresh vegetables from your hamster's diet since too many vegetables can cause diarrhea. Also, make sure your hamster has access to fresh, clean water so it doesn't become dehydrated. After a day or two of eating just dry food, your hamster should improve. If it doesn't, take it to see a vet since it could be suffering from something more serious. | Stop feeding your hamster fresh vegetables. In small quantities, fresh vegetables are part of a healthy, balanced hamster diet. They are very nutritious and have extra moisture that keeps hamsters well hydrated. Eating too many vegetables, though, can cause diarrhea because of too much moisture. To help stop your hamster's diarrhea, take fresh vegetables out of its diet. Feed your hamster only dry food (hamster pellets). Hamster pellets are very nutritious, so you don't have to worry about your hamster not getting enough nutrients when it eats only dry food. Give your hamster fresh water. Like people, hamsters become dehydrated if they have diarrhea. Make sure your hamster has plenty of fresh, cool water to drink so it can rehydrate itself. If you notice your hamster isn't drinking its water, give it water by hand: Fill a small eye dropper with cool water. Holding your hamster, put the eyedropper in the corner of its mouth. Squeeze a few drops of water at a time into your hamster's mouth. Talk with your vet about how often you should give your hamster water by hand. Consider feeding your hamster raspberry bush leaves or arrowroot. Raspberry bush leaves and arrowroot can help a hamster recover from diarrhea. Talk with your vet before feeding either of these items to your hamster. Your vet can advise you on how much of these items to give your hamster to treat the diarrhea. Reintroduce vegetables after the diarrhea stops. After a day or two without vegetables, your hamster's diarrhea should stop. Don't start refeeding vegetables right away, though. To allow your hamster to fully recover, wait one to two weeks before adding vegetables back to the diet. When you feed your hamster vegetables, make the portion size equal to a few raisins. Feed the vegetables once a day. Watch for improvement. With normal cases of hamster diarrhea, the hamster will look otherwise healthy (no hunching over or loss of appetite) and be completely healthy again after a few days of eating a dry food-only diet. However, with more severe diarrhea, a hamster will not improve after a day or two. In fact, the diarrhea may get worse and the hamster may look sicker (dull and sunken eyes, ruffled coat, weight loss). Severe diarrhea is a symptom of Wet Tail , which causes serious illness in hamsters. If your hamster is not getting better, take it to your vet right away for further treatment. Keep your hamster’s cage warm. While you treat your hamster for diarrhea, make sure its cage stays warm (70‒85 degrees Fahrenheit/21‒29 degrees Celsius). Normal room temperature is around 72 degrees Fahrenheit (22 degrees Celsius), so keep your hamster's cage in a non-drafty room that's at room temperature. You could also place a heating pad (available pet stores) under the cage using these suggestions: Place the heating pad under a small portion of the cage so your hamster can move away from the heat when it wants to. After the heating pad has been on for a while, touch the bedding to see if it is warming up. Do not use a human heating pad, since these pads automatically shut off and can leave your hamster feeling cold. Clean your hamster’s cage. This is important if your hamster has severe diarrhea from Wet Tail. A dirty cage can have a buildup of bacteria or other harmful organisms. Cleaning the cage will remove disease-causing organisms. Below are cleaning suggestions: Each day, clean the food bowl and water bottle with hot soap and water. Refill the food and water. Change out the bedding weekly. Leave a small section of old bedding in the cage so your hamster recognizes its scent on the bedding. Once a week, remove everything from the cage. Clean and disinfect the cage and plastic toys. Remove uneaten food. Each day, check your hamster's cage for uneaten food. Remove and discard this food. If you leave the food in the cage, it could spoil and become an easy place for bacteria and mold to grow. Bacteria and mold could make your hamster very sick. | Stop feeding your hamster fresh vegetables. Give your hamster fresh water. Consider feeding your hamster raspberry bush leaves or arrowroot. Reintroduce vegetables after the diarrhea stops. Watch for improvement. Keep your hamster’s cage warm. Clean your hamster’s cage. Remove uneaten food. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Grill-Sirloin-Steak | How to Grill Sirloin Steak | To grill a sirloin steak, start by preheating your grill to medium-high, with a temperature of about 375°F. While the grill is heating up, rub the steaks with salt and pepper and let them rest for 15 minutes at room temperature so they'll cook evenly. Once the grill is hot, put the steaks on the grate over direct heat and close the lid. Cook the meat for 7 minutes on each side for a medium-cooked steak. Then, remove the steaks from the grill and allow them to sit for 10 minutes before you serve them to trap the flavors and juices in the meat. | Purchase the right sirloin steak. The sirloin is from the rear part of the beef, specifically the hip. Look for steaks that are marbled, where the white stripes of fat are interspersed evenly throughout the meat. Choose steaks with a light, bright red color, and pick steaks that are 1 inch (25.4 mm) to 1-1/2 inches (38.1 mm) thick. Ask the butcher to cut you a fresh steak if they all seem brown on the outside -- this means they have been sitting out in the air for too long. Know that the type of grill you use impacts the flavor of your steak. Many people swear that a grilled steak, with a little salt and pepper, is one of nature's finest meals. Sirloins, though not extra tender, pack a lot of flavor even without seasoning. The real flavor comes from the interaction between the meat and the heat source. They only need a light searing on the outside to taste flavorful and juicy. Depending on your grill, you may get very different flavors from your steak: Propane: Gas grills impart little additional flavor on the meat. They are, however, easy to control and get hot the quickest. You can adjust the temperatures with a simple knob, allowing you to perfect the cooking process to your liking, and they usually have attached thermometers. Charcoal: Briquettes light up relatively fast and get hot quickly. They impart the "classic" BBQ flavor, with a hint of smokiness, but are a bit trickier to get to the right temperature. Wood-fire: Wood chips, like hickory or oak, give the best natural flavor to the meat. However, they are harder to maintain and light, so many people use a mixture of charcoal and wood to get the best of both worlds. Pre-heat your grill to medium-high. If you are using charcoal and/or wood this might take 30-40 minutes, until the briquets are covered in gray ash, but propane grills only take a few minutes to get hot. Aim to have the inside of the grill around 375°F by leaving the cover on as it heats. The thinner the steak, the hotter you want the grill: 3/4-1 inch thick: 360-400°F You shouldn't be able to hold your hand over the grill longer than 4-5 seconds. 1-1 1/2 inch thick: 325-360°F You shouldn't be able to hold your hand over the grill longer than 5-6 seconds. Rub the steak with salt and pepper while the grill heats. Most steaks are best with only a little bit of seasoning. Rub 1/2 tablespoon of both salt and crushed black pepper on both sides of the steak and let it sit at room temperature for 15-20 minutes while the grill heats. You want the steak to sit at room temperature so that it isn't cold when you put it on the grill-- this can cause the meat to contract and tighten up as it cooks. Be liberal with the salt -- a nice crusting is perfect, but you should still be able to see the meat underneath. Bigger kernels of salt (course sea salt or kosher salt, for example) will caramelize the outside better, so avoid using fine table salt whenever possible. Place your steak over direct heat on the grill. You want to sear the outside with nice, caramelized crust for the best texture and flavor. Slap the steak over the flame and then leave it alone, closing the top of the grill as it cooks. Resist the urge to poke, prod, or move it as it cooks. Cook each side of the steak over direct heat for 4-7 minutes, depending on desired doneness. They should be dark brown when you flip them over. If they are black, the grill was too hot. If they are pink, the grill was not hot enough, so try and raise the heat or leave them over the flame for another 2-3 minutes. You can also turn them 45 degrees halfway through cooking to get the perfect cross-cut grill marks. For reference: Medium rare steaks should be grilled for roughly 5 minutes a side. Medium steaks should be grilled for roughly 7 minutes a side. Well done steaks should be cooked for ten minutes on each side, then left on indirect heat to keep cooking. Use tongs to turn the steak instead of a fork as piercing it causes the juices to drain out. Remove the steak from direct heat and let it cook indirectly if you want a well-done steak. Move the steak to another side of the grill, one without direct flame, and let it keep cooking until the inside is done to your liking. With a charcoal grill you can open or close the top vent to control the smokiness, closing it for smokier texture. You can use a meat thermometer to gauge the meat's internal cooking, or just estimate with time. Rare: 130-135°F. Remove immediately after flipping each side. Medium-Rare: 140°F. Sear each side for an extra minute or 30 seconds longer than you would for a rare steak. Medium: 155°F. Let it continue cooking for an extra 1-2 minutes off of direct heat. Flip halfway through. Well Done: 165°F Let the steak cook on indirect heat for 3-4 minutes, flipping halfway through. Use the "hand test" to check for doneness.If you don't have a meat thermometer you can use your hands to check for doneness. Press on the center of the steak with one finger. For medium steaks, it should have a give, similar to pressing on the center your palm. For medium-rare it will feel bouncy and spongy, like the pad right below your thumb. Let the steak stand for 10 minutes at room temperature before eating. Tent a piece of aluminum foil over the steak let it rest before eating. This traps the flavors in the meat and leads to a better tasting steak. Rub a seasoning over the meat in place of salt and pepper. Dry rubs add flavor to meat without ruining their tenderness, and are often sold as "seasoned salts" or "steak seasonings." You can also, however, make your own. Mix the following spices with 1/2 tablespoon salt and crushed black pepper, then massage the rub into both sides of the sirloin. Use equal parts of each spice, roughly 1-1/2 tablespoons, and don't be afraid to mix and match. Onion powder, paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder. Dried rosemary, thyme, and oregano, garlic powder. Cayenne, chili powder, paprika, Mexican oregano, garlic powder. Brown sugar, chili pepper, paprika, garlic powder, and ground coffee Soak the sirloin in a wet marinade to get moist, delicious flavor. Wet marinades are only effective overnight, so don't make one at the last minute and expect a lot of taste changes. The acid in wet marinades (vinegar, lemon juice, etc.) breaks down some of the meat tissue, making the meat more tender. Too much acid, however, can ruin the texture and make a crispy grilled exterior impossible. Place the steaks in a bag with the marinade and leave them in the fridge overnight to get the best results. 1/3 cups of soy sauce, olive oil, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, plus 1-2 tablespoons garlic powder, dried basil, parsley, rosemary, and crushed black pepper. 1/3 cup red wine vinegar, 1/2 cup soy sauce, 1 cup vegetable oil, 3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce, 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard, 2-3 cloves minced garlic, 1 tablespoon ground black pepper. Brush a pat of butter on top of the sirloin for steakhouse richness. There is a reason that most steakhouse steaks come with a pat of butter on top. Butter seeps into the cuts of the meat and elevates it into the perfect entree. You can try making compound butter with spices and herbs as well to get a extra flavor. To make compound butter, mix 6 tablespoons butter with herbs in a food processor, then freeze the mixture until it is time to put on your steak. You can also heat it on low on the stove top and brush the melted butter and herbs on the steak when it is done. 1 teaspoon thyme, sage, rosemary, chopped. 2-3 cloves minced garlic 1 teaspoon chili powder, cilantro, and cayenne pepper. Top your steak. Most steaks can stand by themselves as delicious meals, but a well-chosen topping can make them even better. Things to try on top include: Caramelized onions, peppers, or mushrooms. Fried onions. Blue cheese crumbles. Sour cream. | Purchase the right sirloin steak. Know that the type of grill you use impacts the flavor of your steak. Pre-heat your grill to medium-high. Rub the steak with salt and pepper while the grill heats. Place your steak over direct heat on the grill. Cook each side of the steak over direct heat for 4-7 minutes, depending on desired doneness. Remove the steak from direct heat and let it cook indirectly if you want a well-done steak. Use the "hand test" to check for doneness.If you don't have a meat thermometer you can use your hands to check for doneness. Let the steak stand for 10 minutes at room temperature before eating. Rub a seasoning over the meat in place of salt and pepper. Soak the sirloin in a wet marinade to get moist, delicious flavor. Brush a pat of butter on top of the sirloin for steakhouse richness. Top your steak. |
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