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https://www.wikihow.com/Grind-Bones | How to Grind Bones | If you want to grind bones, select soft, uncooked bones that are no longer or thicker than your thumb, including wing tips, rib cages, and neck bones. Chop the bones into smaller sections with a meat cleaver. If you're using a grinder or a mixer attachment, feed the bones through one at a time. If you're using a blender or a food processor, grind multiple bones together, along with a little water. Place the bone meal in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. | Choose a durable electric meat grinder for frequent bone grinding. A good electric grinder will last you a long time. They range from affordable lower-end models to expensive heavyweights capable of chewing through large batches of bones every week. When selecting a grinder, read the packaging to make sure the manufacturer approved it for bone grinding or else you will end up with dull or broken blades. If you're making pet food, a smaller electric grinder is fine for general usage and will last about 2 years. If you've got a family of large dogs to feed, consider getting a heavy duty model. Electric grinders are often available online and at kitchen supply stores. Before settling on an expensive grinder, read reviews from other customers. Research how well the grinder handles bones and how long it will last. Select a manual meat grinder for an inexpensive way to grind bones. Manual grinders are sometimes available on reseller websites and secondhand stores. Many of them are as effective as lower-end electric grinders. They require you to turn a handle to grind the bones yourself, so they are not as easy to use, but they are a good way to try grinding without committing to an expensive purchase. Get a grinder that is easy to take apart. That way, it's easier to wash and will last a lot longer. Use a stand mixer with a grinder attachment for versatility. If you have a quality stand mixer, you may not need to add another bulky tool to your kitchen. The grinder attachment plugs into the front end of a mixer and operates the same way as a regular meat grinder. Stand mixers generally have strong motors that are effective at pushing bones through the grinder attachment. Grinder attachments come in plastic and metal varieties. Metal attachments are usually more durable and better for bones. Grinder attachments get pretty pricey, sometimes costing as much as a low-end meat grinder. Grind bones in a blender or food processor if you don’t have a grinder. Most kitchens have these tools and they are much easier to find at retail locations than grinders. They're versatile like a stand mixer. The difference is that some blenders and processors aren't as powerful and their blades will dull over time, which can be a problem if you need them for other purposes. When using a blender or processor, watch the bones carefully. Make sure you grind them down to dust. Sharp bone fragments are dangerous when eaten. Consider picking up a spare blender from a thrift store to reduce the wear and tear on your regular kitchen blender. Select soft, uncooked bones that are easy to break down. If you are preparing a meal for a pet, think of what they would normally eat in the wild. Poultry wing tips, rib cages, necks, and backs are all good choices for grinding. Bones from other small animals like fish, rabbits, and rodents also work. Choose bones that are no longer or thicker than your thumb to ensure they break down appropriately. Cooked bones will splinter, so they are dangerous for pets to consume. They also have less nutrients than raw bones. Avoid using bones from larger animals such as cows, pigs, and even lambs. Unless you have the kind of industrial grinder butchers use, these bones will be too hard to grind. Divide the bones up into smaller sections to feed into the grinder. Get your sharpest, strongest knife, such as a meat cleaver or a chef's knife. If you have a strong pair of kitchen scissors, they will also work. Separate the bones as needed so they fit in your grinder. For instance, take the wings off a whole chicken by cutting through the joints where they attach to the rest of the bird. Leaving the meat on smaller cuts of chicken is fine. For instance, most grinders will handle whole wings, which is great for making pet food. If you only want the bones, pull the meat off of them first. If you plan on mixing vegetables with meat and bones, chop them up into smaller chunks that will also fit in the grinder. Set out a bowl if it is needed to catch the ground bones. Set the grinder on a stable surface like a countertop. Make sure you have enough room to position a bowl underneath the end of the grinder. Use a clean mixing bowl or even a plastic bin to catch large batches of bones. You will need a bowl if you plan on grinding the bones with a meat grinder or stand mixer, but not with a blender or food processor. Some grinders are prone to leaking moisture. To prevent a mess, set the grinder on some paper towels or a vinyl tablecloth. Feed the bones 1 at a time into a grinder or mixer attachment. Turn on the grinder or stand mixer, then drop the first bone into the open end on top of it. Push the bone down until it's all the way into the grinder, keeping your hands clear of the blades. Wait for the bone to go all the way through and out the other end before putting the next bone in. Feeding bones too quickly will cause the grinder to clog or break. Always wait for the last bone to pass through before adding another one. Grind multiple bones together if you’re using a blender or processor. Add as many bones as you need or can fit. Also, pour in a cup of water to ensure everything grinds up to the proper consistency. Then, push the bones down until you're able to fit the top securely on the appliance. If you're making pet food, you do not need to take all of the meat off the bones before grinding them, but make sure everything blends together into a liquid consistency. Store ground bones in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Keep the ground bones in a sealed container to prevent them from spoiling. Bones have blood and marrow in them, so they will begin to smell rancid after a while. Throw the powder away when it's consistency, texture, or odor changes. Freeze the ground bones in freezer-safe containers for long-term storage. They last indefinitely in the freezer but lose quality after 6 to 12 months. If you ground meat or vegetables with the bones, store the mixture in the refrigerator the same way. Make sure it's still fresh before you feed it to your pet. Take the meat grinder apart to wash it with soap and hot water. Unplug the machine first if it uses electricity. Then, twist the plates off of the grinder's openings by turning them counterclockwise. Pull the feed tube and hopper out of the top part of the grinder. Clear the entire machine of all debris, then dry it off before storing it. Before you take the grinder apart, try feeding bread through it. Bread absorbs oil and moisture in the machine. It also pushes out any ground-up fragments stuck inside. | Choose a durable electric meat grinder for frequent bone grinding. Select a manual meat grinder for an inexpensive way to grind bones. Use a stand mixer with a grinder attachment for versatility. Grind bones in a blender or food processor if you don’t have a grinder. Select soft, uncooked bones that are easy to break down. Divide the bones up into smaller sections to feed into the grinder. Set out a bowl if it is needed to catch the ground bones. Feed the bones 1 at a time into a grinder or mixer attachment. Grind multiple bones together if you’re using a blender or processor. Store ground bones in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Take the meat grinder apart to wash it with soap and hot water. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Build-Muscle-Naturally | How to Build Muscle Naturally | To build muscle naturally, eat healthy, muscle-building foods, like eggs, nuts, lean beef, salmon, and cottage cheese. Also, do strength-training exercises to build your muscles, like bicep curls, crunches, push-ups, squats, and lunges. Try to do a variety of exercises so you're targeting all of your different muscle groups. Then, whenever you finish a workout, eat some protein, which will help your muscles recover and grow. | Increase your daily caloric intake to raise your body mass. If you are burning all the calories you eat, working out and burning fat will make you thinner. For most people, consuming an additional 300-500 calories a day is more than enough to bulk up while working out regularly. Keep in mind, these calories should be equally consumed through proteins, carbohydrates, and a little bit of fat. Make sure you are eating the right kinds of foods during the day. You don't want to increase your daily caloric consumption by eating lots of junk food. Adult men normally need around 2,400 calories a day while women need around 2,000. These caloric requirements differ a little based on age, weight, and height. Talk to a nutritionist or doctor to determine how many calories you need. Consume a protein-rich breakfast every day to start burning fat. In the morning, be sure to eat eggs, lean sausage, Greek yogurt, or some other protein-rich food. Eating early in the morning jumpstarts your metabolism and tells your body that it's time to start burning energy. This will not only make it easier to lose the bad weight, but the protein will help your muscles stay strong and healthy as they get bigger. A good sample breakfast might be a small cup of yogurt, an egg, and a few low-fat sausage links. Don't eat so much in the morning that you feel tired and sluggish during the day. Eat more frequently throughout the day and have a smaller dinner. Instead of sticking to the usual 3 meals a day, you'll have an easier time building muscle with 4-5 meals. This will also help you reach your caloric target. Eating more meals will increase your metabolism and energy levels which will make it easier to build muscle. Make your last daily meal a little smaller than your breakfast or lunch. Since your metabolism is lower late at night, eating a lot after 5 pm may help you put on weight, but it won't build muscle. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially before working out. It's important to make sure you aren't dehydrated with your increased diet and workout routine. Consume roughly 17–20 fl oz (500–590 mL) of water at least 2 hours before working out. While you're lifting or running, drink 7–10 fl oz (210–300 mL) of water every 10-20 minutes. After you're done, have 16–24 fl oz (470–710 mL) of water for every 1 lb (0.45 kg) you lost through your sweat to stay properly hydrated. Get roughly 25-30% of your daily calories from protein. Everyone's body is different, but protein is a major contributor when it comes to building muscle mass. Since protein repairs muscle tissue, it's extremely important to get at least 25% of your diet from protein when you're bulking up. Fresh salmon with a side of broccoli or potatoes is a great way to get some protein. You could also make something using grilled chicken, a beef stew, or a tofu dish. Good options when it comes to protein include lean beef, chicken, eggs, almonds, broccoli, and Greek yogurt. Stay away from junk food and soda if you're trying to build muscle! Eat enough carbohydrates to make them roughly 55-60% of your diet. Carbohydrates are essential when it comes to producing energy. Since you'll be using a lot more energy than most people by working out every other day or so, getting plenty of carbs is key to building muscle. One easy way to do this is to have a carb with each meal every day. You could also eat a single carbohydrate-heavy dish, like pasta. Solid carbohydrates include any vegetable, salmon, nuts, chickpeas, lentils, and potatoes. For meals, you could make some sweet potatoes, mixed greens, with a protein. You can also get a ton of carbs from pasta, which can be prepared a variety of different ways. Make fiber, oils, and healthy fats the remaining 15-20% of your calories. Fiber is crucial for helping your body digest while healthy oils like olive oil and almond oil contain a variety of acids that your body needs. The oils will also help reduce inflammation which you may run into while working out regularly. For fat, try to limit your intake and stick with healthy fats found in cheese, avocado, and quinoa. Foods that are rich in fiber include basically any fruit and vegetable. Throw in some veggies with at least one of your meals to make sure that you get enough fiber. Popcorn with a little oil and no butter or salt is a healthy nutritious snack that's rich in fiber and oil. Set a goal for yourself to build muscle up over time. You may want to bulk up fast, but remember that building real muscle takes time. Determine how much muscle you want to build and take a “before” photo so you can gauge your progress over time. For the next few months, be sure to get adequate sleep, prepare to cut out the junk food, and go grocery shopping to pick up some good proteins and carbs for your fridge. Set a date where you're going to start, but don't focus too much on an end date. Everyone's process is different and it can take anywhere from 1 month to a year to bulk up depending on your age, diet, and metabolism. Work out 2-3 times a week to give your muscles healthy breaks. Working out every day is not a particularly good idea. Your muscles need time to repair and it's important to get some rest in between workout sessions. Leave at least 1 day off in your schedule in between workout sessions. You'll actually build less muscle if you lift every single day. Running daily is fine if you're looking to trim down your waistline while building muscle, but lifting every day will simply be less effective. Get a trainer to build a specific workout plan and stay motivated. It's not mandatory, but getting a personal trainer is a great way to stick with your workout regimen. They'll also be able to guide you through the proper forms and mechanics for certain exercises. This is a particularly good idea if you're new to weightlifting and working out. You can also ask a friend that lifts regularly to help you out and be your lifting partner if you prefer. Warm up by stretching and doing light aerobics for 10 minutes before lifting. Before you begin any strength training exercises, it's important to warm up your muscles to prevent pulling a muscle or injuring yourself. Start by touching your toes with your legs straight for 5-10 seconds. Stretch your arms by pulling each arm across your chest and behind your head. Pull your feet up behind you to do some thigh stretches. Then, hop on a treadmill, bike, or do some jumping jacks. Get 10-15 minutes of cardio in before lifting. When stretching, it doesn't necessarily matter if you do any specific stretches so long as you loosen up your legs, arms, chest, and back. Target your arms using curls and bent rows. These exercises often need a barbell or dumbbells, but they can be done at home without a spotter. If you find that the amount of weight you are using is too easy, try increasing it. Starting off with 10–15 pounds (4.5–6.8 kg) if you aren't sure where to start. Try doing 3 sets of each exercise with 10-15 reps in each set. Bicep curls can be done with a barbell or dumbbells depending on your preference. Hold the weight with your palm facing up and slowly lift the weight towards your shoulders by curling your biceps up before lowering it slowly back to the original position. Hold it for 1 second to complete 1 rep before repeating the process again. To do a bent row, put one knee down on a bench and hinge from the waist so your back is flat. Hold a dumbbell in one hand and let it hang down toward the ground. Tense your shoulder, bicep, and forearm. Pull the weight directly up to your chest and lower it back down toward the floor to complete 1 rep. After completing 1 set, swap hands. Use crunches and leg raises to build your abs up. For many people, the abdominal area is where their weight hangs out, and they often do cardio to achieve that flat belly look. Cardio isn't always enough to create a 6-pack, but these exercises will help you achieve it. Do 10-15 reps each and do 1 set. Leg raises are fairly simple and straightforward. Lie on your back with your feet together and keep your legs straight. Raise your legs as high as you can without bending your knees or lifting your butt off of the floor. Once you reach the highest you can go, hold it for 1 second. Then, slowly lower your legs back to 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) above the ground. Do not let your feet touch the ground and count 1 rep. Repeat this process to complete a set. Crunches are also pretty easy in terms of form. To do a crunch, lie down on your back with your knees bent. Put your arms across your chest and raise your upper body up without lifting your lower back. Once you get as high as you can, count 1 rep. Slowly lower yourself back to the ground and stop when you're 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) above the ground before completing the rest of the set. Build your chest up with bench presses and push-ups. These exercises not only build muscle in your chest, but also help increase strength in your shoulders and arms. You can do these at home or in a gym. Keep in mind, you do need a spotter if you're going to do the bench press. You can do a bench press with a barbell or dumbbells. Lay flat on your back on a lifting bench and hoist the dumbbells or barbell directly above your chest. Once your arms are fully extended, hold it for 1 second before lowering your arms down. Stop when the dumbbells or barbells are 3–4 inches (7.6–10.2 cm) from your chest to count 1 rep. Do not hesitate to call a spotter if you need help. Do 5-10 reps based on how much weight you're using. Push-ups are a classic choice. Either do standard push-ups or slide a small platform or ottoman under your feet to increase the resistance on your chest and alleviate pressure on your back. Keep your hands below your shoulder and lower yourself till your chin is 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) above the ground before pushing yourself back up to do 1 rep. Do 10-20 per set and do 2 sets if possible. Target your legs with squats and leg curls. These exercises will target your butt, glutes, and legs. Use a dumbbell or barbell for these exercises and try to do three sets of each exercise with 10 to 15 repetitions. To do a squat, take a heavy dumbbell or barbell and hold it in in your hands, stand up straight placing your feet shoulder width apart. Bend your knees so your thighs are parallel to the floor while keeping your back straight. Hold your position for 1-2 seconds before raising yourself up to count 1 rep. You have to do leg curls at the gym on a leg bench machine. Lie down on your stomach and slide your feet under the footpads. Use your knees to curl your calves up and pull the weights up towards your butt. Once you raise the footpads up as high as you can, lower the weights slowly to count 1 rep. Talk to your doctor about exercising safely. The types of exercise you can do safely depend on a lot of factors, like your fitness level, current weight, age, and overall health. Before you take on a strenuous new workout routine, see your doctor. They can tell you what kinds of exercise are likely to benefit you the most, and help you avoid exercises that might lead to injury. For example, if you struggle with arthritis or another musculoskeletal condition, your doctor or physical therapist can help you choose exercises that will help you build muscle mass without putting strain on your joints. Ask your doctor to recommend a physical therapist or certified personal trainer who can help you develop a healthy exercise plan. Consult your doctor before making major dietary changes. Your nutritional needs will also vary depending on a lot of individual factors, such as your age, sex, overall health, and current dietary habits. A doctor or registered dietitian can help you determine how much you need to eat in order to build muscle in a healthy way. They can also advise you about which foods are healthiest for you. Let your doctor know if you have any health conditions that might affect what you can safely eat, such as diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease. Seek medical help if you have concerns about your muscle mass. If you're having trouble building muscle or gaining weight, make an appointment to talk to your doctor. They may be able to determine if there is an underlying condition (such as a thyroid problem or a nutrient deficiency) that's making it harder for you to build muscle mass. Give your doctor detailed information about your current diet and exercise habits, your health history, and any medications or supplements you're currently taking. Get medical advice before trying any supplements. While some dietary supplements, like glutamine, can help you build muscle in a healthy way, others may do more harm than good. Additionally, supplements can sometimes interact badly with medications or other supplements, sometimes causing serious side effects. Before starting any new supplement, talk to your doctor about whether it's a good idea for you. Give your doctor a full list of any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are currently taking, as well as any other vitamins or dietary supplements. Let your doctor know if you have any medical conditions or health concerns that might affect which supplements you can safely take, such as pregnancy, kidney or liver disease, or a blood clotting disorder. See your doctor if you have severe pain after working out. It's normal to feel a little sore after working out, especially if you're not used to using those muscles. However, some types of pain after exercise might mean that you have an injury. | Increase your daily caloric intake to raise your body mass. Consume a protein-rich breakfast every day to start burning fat. Eat more frequently throughout the day and have a smaller dinner. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, especially before working out. Get roughly 25-30% of your daily calories from protein. Eat enough carbohydrates to make them roughly 55-60% of your diet. Make fiber, oils, and healthy fats the remaining 15-20% of your calories. Set a goal for yourself to build muscle up over time. Work out 2-3 times a week to give your muscles healthy breaks. Get a trainer to build a specific workout plan and stay motivated. Warm up by stretching and doing light aerobics for 10 minutes before lifting. Target your arms using curls and bent rows. Use crunches and leg raises to build your abs up. Build your chest up with bench presses and push-ups. Target your legs with squats and leg curls. Talk to your doctor about exercising safely. Consult your doctor before making major dietary changes. Seek medical help if you have concerns about your muscle mass. Get medical advice before trying any supplements. See your doctor if you have severe pain after working out. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Lower-Microalbumin | How to Lower Microalbumin | To lower your microalbumin, reduce your protein intake and focus your diet on low-protein, low-sugar, and slow carbohydrates like beans, brown rice, lettuce, and spinach. Each small, frequent meals rather than a few large ones, drink 8-12 glasses of water a day, and avoid drinking alcohol. Exercising 3-4 minutes a day can help lower your blood pressure, which might be a factor if your albumin levels are high. If that still doesn't work, your doctor may prescribe an ACE inhibitor or statins. | Focus your diet on slow-carb, low-protein, and low-sugar foods. Damaged kidneys cannot process proteins normally, so give your kidneys time to rest by reducing your protein intake. You should eat foods that compromise of slow carbohydrates (where your glucose levels don't spike), low amounts of protein, fat, sodium and sugar. Here are some healthy options: Slow carbohydrate foods : porridge oats, beans, brown rice, pasta, lentils, carrots, sweet potatoes, and asparagus. Low protein food : bread and cereals, pasta, lettuce, celery, sprouts, cucumber, parsley, tofu, fish and lean meats. Low fat and low sodium foods : eat nothing fried (use olive oil if need be) and skip the salt. Avoid canned products such as soup, vegetable, and pasta sauces. Low sugar foods : eggs, kidney beans, tofu, walnuts, cottage cheese, olives, spinach, turnips, asparagus, barley, Also, avoid binge eating instead eat small frequent meals. These will help your kidney not to overwork and strain itself from filtering all the waste products. Avoid alcohol. Getting abnormal levels of microalbumin on your test results is indicative of poor kidney function. The affected kidney can no longer filter ethanol from the alcohol efficiently, which increases the risk of prolonged high microalbumin levels. To combat this, cut out the alcohol and replace it with water, teas, and unsweetened juices. A glass of red wine once in a while is your best bet if you need to blend in at your next soiree. Anything other than that should be avoided. Quit smoking. A gradual quitting of smoking is advised rather than immediately stopping it. You may have withdrawal symptoms the same as if you were avoiding alcohol if you go cold turkey. However, regardless of the struggle, it is best if you can control yourself in avoiding these two vices. Chronic smokers have a greater risk in developing high blood pressure (smoking restricts your blood vessels, forcing your heart to pump harder, which stresses your kidneys). Nicotine from cigarettes can increase your blood pressure to 10mmHg. If you smoke all throughout the day your blood pressure will remain constantly high. Lower your blood pressure. Having unmanaged high blood pressure can be a factor of why your albumin levels are high. Normal blood pressure ranges from below 120/80 (mmHg) to 130/80. Blood pressure that is equal to or more than 140 (mmhg) is considered to be high. In order to lower your blood pressure you'll want to limit or avoid foods high in fat, cholesterol, and sodium. If you consistently have high blood pressure, talk to your doctor about medication that can control it. Also, regularly exercising (3 to 4 times a week) for about 30 minutes each time can greatly reduce your high blood pressure. It is important to maintain your ideal weight and avoid being overweight or obese. It is also good to come to your primary health care provider to have your blood pressure checked to make sure you're on the right track. Drink plenty of water. Drinking the recommended 8-12 glasses of water every day will help rule out some of the albumin in your urine. You should add more if you sweat a lot and exercise routinely. This will prevent dehydration; the more you're dehydrated, the more your albumin levels will rise. Fatty and salty foods not only contribute to high blood pressure, but absorb up the water in your system. It's best to avoid them for both reasons. Keep an eye on your blood glucose levels, too. It is important to cut down foods high in sugar from your diet to manage your glucose levels, avoid diabetes, obesity, and to keep an eye on your microalbumin. A normal fasting glucose level ranges from 70 to 100 mg/dl. If your fasting level measures 100 to 125 mg/dl, then you may have prediabetes. If you currently have diabetes, the albumin levels in your body will be elevated because unmanaged blood sugar damages your kidney function. 180 mg/dl is the average threshold of the kidneys for diabetics in the 2 hours after a meal. That is why if there are excessive amounts of albumin and glucose in your system, it will affect the function of the kidney and will further cause kidney damage. This will help you keep an eye on your weight, too. A healthy diet and exercise can aid you to lower your blood pressure and blood glucose, but lowering your blood pressure and glucose will have an effect on your weight, too. Have your albumin levels checked. It is important to keep track and monitor your microalbumin levels. This will let you know if your lifestyle is bad for you kidneys and liver. The microalbumin test will check your albumin count in your urine. Early detection of the problem can lead to significant changes that lessen kidney damage. Talk to your doctor for further management. To test your levels, he or she will give you either a random urine test or a timed-collection urine test. The first is where you pee in a cup at the doctor's office as normal. The second is where you collect all your urine for the day, record the time, and the entire batch is used as a sample. Know what the results mean. Upon proper urine collection, the sample will be examined and interpreted by a medical technologist. Microalbumin test results are measured in terms of milligrams (mg) of protein leakage over 24 hours. The results can be interpreted as follows: The normal result is less than 30 mg 30 to 300 mg is indicative of early kidney disease More than 300 mg is indicative of more advanced kidney disease Appropriate discussion with your healthcare provider about the test result is necessary to make prompt treatment and management. If the level of microalbumin is higher than the normal, repeating the test may be recommended by your healthcare provider to be sure. Consider using Angiotensin Converting Enzymes (ACE) inhibitors. These drugs inhibit the conversion of angiotensin I to angiotensin II. This results in your blood vessels widening, thereby reducing tension on the blood vessels and volume of the blood -- in other words, it lowers your blood pressure. ACE inhibitors are proven to reduce the leakage of proteins in the urine such as microalbumins, thus lowering microalbumin levels. The most common prescribed ACE inhibitors are Captopril, Perindopril, Ramipril, Enalapril and Lisinopril. Your doctor will know what's best for you. Talk to your doctor about statins. These drugs lower the cholesterol in the body by hindering the action of HMG-CoA reductase, which is an enzyme necessary in producing cholesterol in the liver. Lower cholesterol means easier work for your heart, blood vessels, and kidneys. The most common prescribed statins are Atorvastatin, Fluvastatin, Lovastatin, Pitavastatin, Pravastatin, Rosuvastatin and Simvastatin. If necessary, know that taking insulin may help. Insulin is a hormone that helps transport blood sugar or glucose into the cells as a source of energy. Without sufficient insulin, the blood sugar cannot be transported inside the cells and remains in the bloodstream. A daily insulin injection upon the advice of a physician is important to maintain normal blood glucose levels. This is only for those who are diabetic or have some type of insulin resistance. If your insulin works as normal, taking insulin shots will not help your microalbumin levels. | Focus your diet on slow-carb, low-protein, and low-sugar foods. Avoid alcohol. Quit smoking. Lower your blood pressure. Drink plenty of water. Keep an eye on your blood glucose levels, too. Have your albumin levels checked. Know what the results mean. Consider using Angiotensin Converting Enzymes (ACE) inhibitors. Talk to your doctor about statins. If necessary, know that taking insulin may help. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Harvest-Basil | How to Harvest Basil | To harvest basil, wait until your basil plant is at least 6 inches (15 cm) tall. Then, pinch off any number of leaves with your fingers to use as a garnish or in a recipe. Leave at least half of the leaves on the plant so that it continues to grow. You can also cut the stem 1/4 inch above a leaf if your basil plant is getting taller than you'd like. Peel the individual leaves off of the stem afterward. To harvest the entire plant at the end of the growing season, cut the stem where it meets the soil. Then, pick the individual leaves off of the stem before discarding it. If flower buds appear on your plant at any point, trim them off with a pair of scissors before they bloom. Otherwise, your plant won't grow back after you trim its leaves. | Harvest leaves once the plant is 6 inches (15 cm) to 8 inches (20 cm) tall. When you water your basil plant, measure it with a tape measure or ruler to see how much it has grown. When the tallest part of the plant reaches 6 inches (15 cm), you can start to harvest its leaves. You should not let your plant exceed 8 inches (20 cm) before trimming it. Pick off small amounts of leaves whenever you wish. Once your basil plant is grown, you should feel free to pick off leaves whenever you want a fresh garnish. Remove a few leaves from each section of the plant without cutting off any stems. Even this very light harvesting will encourage your basil plant to grow fuller. It's best to harvest leaves from the top of the plant, which will lead to bushier, fuller growth. If you harvest the bottom leaves, the plant will grow lanky and thin, and it might not be as healthy or productive. Pinch off basil leaves at the stem. When picking basil leaves, be gentle to avoid tearing them or damaging the stems they are attached to. Pinch basil leaves at their base, where they meet the stem. Gently pull away the entire leaf from the stem. You can also cut leaves with a small pair of scissors. Be very careful not to cut the stem while doing so. Trim the plant from the top down to remove stems. To remove full stems of basil, start from the top and work your way down. This kind of harvesting will remove a greater quantity of the plant so it should begin at the tallest, most full part of the plant, leaving smaller shoots underneath to keep growing. For larger-scale harvesting that you do every few weeks, aim to remove at least one third of the plant's total height. To remove stems easily, use small scissors. Harvest the basil when the plant starts to flower, which will encourage new growth. Cut stems right above the leaf node. When you remove full stems of basil from a plant, always cut as close as possible to the top of the leaf node. Leaf nodes are the points on the plant where side shoots emerge—aim to cut the stems about.25 inches (0.64 cm) above this point. If you leave more than 1 inch (2.5 cm) above the leaf node, the plant will divert nutrients to this stub and away from smaller shoots that need them. This can restrict the overall growth of the plant. When you cut just above the node, the plant will divide in two, so it will continue growing in a bushier, fuller form. Pinch the tips off branches and side shoots. While you are watering it or picking off leaves, take a moment to examine your plant. Use your fingers to gently pinch the tips off of side shoots and branches. This will promote healthy growth and allow your plant to fill out. Trim away flower buds before they bloom. If you want to keep growing basil, you have to prevent your plant from flowering. Once a basil plant flowers, it will not produce any more leaves. Trim away any buds you see on your plant before they have the chance to blossom. If you have harvested enough basil leaves and are ready to see your plant go, allow it to flower and enjoy the beauty. Basil flowers are edible but their flavor is stronger than basil leaves and their seed pods are coarse and gritty. Harvest full, outdoor plants with a hand pruner. If you are growing a large crop of basil plants outdoors and wish to harvest the entire plants, cut them about 3 inches (7.6 cm) above the ground. Use a hand pruner to cut through the entire base of the plant easily. Be sure to shake off the basil plants to remove any bugs and excess dirt. Clean and store fresh basil. After you collect basil, examine it and remove any dead or yellow leaves that you find. Rinse it thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris. Allow it to air dry, or pat it dry with a paper towel. Then, put it in an airtight container like a ziplock bag or plastic storage container. The basil can last for up to a few weeks. Just use the leaves or break pieces off as necessary. Blanch and freeze the leaves. Remove basil leaves from their stem and drop them in a pot of boiling water for five to ten seconds. Remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer them directly to a large bowl with water and ice in it. After several minutes, remove the leaves and lay them out flat to dry on paper towels before storing them in the freezer. Place basil leaves in a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag. Basil leaves will keep in the freezer for several months. Dry your basil. Place basil stems in a dry paper bag and place the bag in a warm dry place, such as an attic or kitchen cupboard. Let them dry for one or two weeks, then remove the leaves from the stems. Keep the leaves as intact as possible and store them in canning jars. It is best to keep full leaves of dry basil and crumble them at the last minute, if necessary. Pull off any yellow or spotted leaves before drying your bail. Dried basil should be kept for about a year, or as long as it keeps the same distinct aroma. You can also dry basil by hanging it up in bunches in a warm, dry room. Keep fresh basil in water. Clean stems of basil and trim off their bases. Place them in a glass jar with about 1 inch (2.5 cm) to 2 inches (5.1 cm) of water at the bottom. Basil stems will keep for up to two weeks if they are kept at room temperature and out of direct sunlight. Make “basil cubes. ” In a food processor, add 1 cup (250 ml) of basil leaves and 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of grape seed oil. Process this mixture until the basil leaves are in small bits, then add 1 tablespoon (15 ml) water and process again to make a paste. Pack the mixture tightly into an ice cube tray and freeze it. Once the cubes are frozen, transfer them into a freezer-safe container or ziplock bag to store them for easy use. You can add basil cubes to sauces, soups, and curries for easy seasoning. Basil cubes will keep in the freezer for approximately three to four months. | Harvest leaves once the plant is 6 inches (15 cm) to 8 inches (20 cm) tall. Pick off small amounts of leaves whenever you wish. Pinch off basil leaves at the stem. Trim the plant from the top down to remove stems. Cut stems right above the leaf node. Pinch the tips off branches and side shoots. Trim away flower buds before they bloom. Harvest full, outdoor plants with a hand pruner. Clean and store fresh basil. Blanch and freeze the leaves. Dry your basil. Keep fresh basil in water. Make “basil cubes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-a-Poodle-for-Breeding | How to Choose a Poodle for Breeding | To choose a poodle puppy to raise for breeding, first decide if you want a male or female puppy. If you own a male dog, you'll only need to leave your dog with the female dog's owner for the mating period. Owning a female dog is more involved and requires providing veterinary treatment and at-home care for the duration of the pregnancy. You'll also need to pick a poodle of the correct size for its type based on American Kennel Club guidelines. Look for a poodle with a curly, coarse, and evenly colored coat. You should spend some time with the puppy before you finalize your selection to see if you get along well and if it is well behaved. | Find a reputable breeder. You want to make sure you've found a breeder who will not only offer you quality dogs to breed, but who will also provide you helpful tips. Most importantly for you when it comes to breeding your own dogs, having a good relationship with an existing breeder can be extremely helpful in developing an ethical and successful breeding program. Clean facilities are extremely important. This shows the dogs are well cared for and comfortable, and that the breeder invests time in facility maintenance. The number of litters a breeder produces per year can also be indicative of whether their breeding programs are ethical. Dogs who are overbred are more likely to die at a younger age, and they often produce sick puppies. Ask the breeder, "Do you allow the dam to rest for one heat between mating?" Ask the breeder for specific information including pedigree, how long they've been breeding, and how many litters the dam whose puppy you're considering has had. Expect honesty when the breeder is answering questions. For any pet buyer, a reputable breeder should want to offer clear, honest information, but for a potential pet owner who also wants to breed dogs, this is extremely important. Misinformation from the original breeder may lead to complications for your breeding program. If a breeder avoids answering or changes their answers, point this out. Say something like, "Last time I was here, you said this was her third litter. Today you said second, which is accurate?" Understand purchase contracts. This documentation is how the breeder provides accurate information on the poodle's pedigree and health history. Contracts should also include pricing information, trial period agreements, and return and refund arrangements. Request at least three generations of pedigree to ensure the dog you choose does not have any of the common inherited diseases in its bloodline. Know what the fair pricing is before you buy. Poodles can be priced anywhere between $500 and $2500. The cost depends on a number of different elements, including the pedigree of the dog's parents, any AKC recognition of the puppy you're buying, and how closely the poodle meets the breed standard. Before paying for and taking home the poodle of your choice for breeding, ask about the trial period, refund, and return policies. If for some reason, you change your mind about the poodle you've chosen, it's important that you have clearly outlined these agreements to make sure you can get your money back, if you change your mind about the puppy you've selected, find a comparable poodle at a better price, or are suddenly able to purchase a puppy you liked better who was previously claimed. Request a health history report. This is necessary for both of the parents and the puppy you're interested in. Knowing the hereditary illnesses that frequently effect poodles and ensuring they have been tested for is essential. These common illnesses and tests All poodles that are bred should have the CERF test for inherited eye diseases Make sure your poodle and its parents received testing for von Willderbrand's disease. Ensure OFA testing for hip and elbow dysplasia. All poodles should undergo sebaceous adenitis test for skin disease biannually Testing for Progressive Retinol Atrophy (PRA) should be completed prior to purchase Females should be tested for brucellosis, a common disease contracted during mating. Decide if you want a male, female, or both, for breeding. If you want to be involved in the fast paced world of poodle breeding without having to deal with the daily work required, owning a male dog may be for you. If you'd rather be involved with the breeding process from start to finish, owning a female dog may be the right choice. You should consider owning a breeding pair, if you have the space and time to devote to care. If you own a male dog, you'll only have to be involved in the actual mating process. There's no need for multiple, often costly veterinary visits. You simply leave the male dog or sire with the female's owner for a few weeks two or three times a year for mating. Each male poodle receives a stud fee between $500 and $2500. If you own the female poodle called a dam or bitch, you'll need to care for the male and female dog during the mating period, and provide full veterinary treatment and at-home care throughout pregnancy for the dam. However, apart from the stud fee between $500 and $2500, the full profit associated with breeding and selling poodles goes to the owner of the dam. If you own a breeding pair, you'll be able to keep the full profit of the poodle breeding and sales process, but you'll also be responsible for the cost of caring for both the male and female dog. If you reach the point where you're doing well with a breeding pair, you may want to consider buying another breeding pair to grow your business if you have the time add space to accommodate two additional dogs. Consider partnering with a breeder. If you've found a breeder you liked working with to purchase your puppy, ask them about the possibility of partnering. If you've chosen a male or female dog, you may want to breed with one of their dogs. If you have a breeding pair, you can ask them for tips or mentorship when it comes to running your breeding program. When talking to a potential breeding partner, ask, “Are you at all interested in developing a partnership with a new breeder?” If you already have a breeding program, you can ask the breeder, “Do you have a male or female do who would be available for breeding with my dog?” You can also consider saying something like, “You run a very ethical breeding program here. May I ask you for recommendations and assistance as I start developing my own breeding program?” Choose a poodle size that meets AKC standard. It's important to know the size and shape of the toy, miniature, or standard poodle you're interested in and how they fit into the American Kennel Club (or parallel organization in other countries) standards. Regardless of the type of poodle, the height from ground to the tip of the shoulder should be the same as the length from the breastbone to the tailbone. Toy poodles should be no taller than ten inches at the shoulder. Miniature poodles are between ten and fifteen inches at the shoulder. Standard poodles are any poodles more than fifteen inches at the shoulder. Familiarize yourself with coat colors and consistency. Poodles of all sizes have similar coat styles. Naturally, the poodle's coat is curly, coarse, and dense. The AKC standard also allows for poodle hair to be corded, hanging in long, varying lengths in tightly wound cords. Poodles are available in a variety of colors, including blue, gray, silver, brown, café au lait, apricot, and cream. Regardless of the coat color, the poodle's coloring should be even and consistent at the hairline. Learn the typical behaviors of poodles. This is a highly intelligent breed of dogs who are very active, carry themselves with dignity, and have a great sense of humor. If you notice any characteristics different from those outlined in the AKC standards or you notice snippy or shy behavior, you may want to look for a different poodle. While dogs that deviate from the standard behavior are not necessarily bad dogs for the right person, it's important to breed only the best personality characteristics to improve the overall quality of your puppies. Poodles that respond to new sights and sounds with curiosity are preferred over those who shy away from new stimuli. Poodles should interact with other dogs in a playful but non-aggressive manner. For instance biting and nipping at the sides or haunches with tale wagging is considered playful. Lunging, growling, and biting the face or neck are aggressive behaviors. Dogs should allow you to pet them, view their teeth, and pick them up without showing aggression or fear. Spend time with puppies. Make sure to take as much time as you need to get to know a puppy before making the investment. This is important whether you're selecting a dog for a pet or for breeding. You're going to need to spend a significant amount of time with the dog, so choose one who will fit into your family and routines. Visit the poodle puppies at various points before purchasing. Watching how the dogs develop in size and personality will help you better estimate how they will behave in the future. Take the dog home for a trial period whenever possible. This can usually be written into a purchase agreement. This trial period allows you to get to know how the dog will behave outside of its current environment. Ask if you can walk the puppy or take it to a dog park. Seeing how a poodle responds to other people and dogs will help you understand how it will behave. | Find a reputable breeder. Understand purchase contracts. Request a health history report. Decide if you want a male, female, or both, for breeding. Consider partnering with a breeder. Choose a poodle size that meets AKC standard. Familiarize yourself with coat colors and consistency. Learn the typical behaviors of poodles. Spend time with puppies. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-Hardwood-Floors | How to Care for Hardwood Floors | To care for hardwood floors, dust them every day with a microfiber cloth or mop to trap dirt, pet hair, and other debris that can cause scratches over time. You should also vacuum your hardwood floors once a week with a soft-bristled floor brush attachment. Then, once a month, mop your hardwood floors with a hardwood floor cleaner, using the minimum amount of product necessary. Never mop your floors with water or steam since it can dull the finish and damage the wood. | Dust every day with a microfiber mop or Swiffer. Microfiber cloths trap dirt, particles, pet hair and other household allergens with static electricity. Microfiber mop pads are more effective than sweeping with a broom. They're also safer, since some broom bristles can scratch the floor's surface. When dusting with a microfiber mop, lift it off the floor as little as possible so that the dirt stays securely trapped on the pad. Daily dusting is your best line of defensive against scratches and surface damage. Vacuum every week with a soft-bristled floor-brush attachment. Dust the floor with the microfiber mop before you begin. If you leave a lot of debris on the floor when you vacuum, this can scratch the floor's surface. After using the microfiber pad, carefully vacuum the floor using a floor-brush attachment. Use caution when vacuuming hardwood floors. Keep an eye on the vacuum's wheels, which can damage the surface if you aren't careful. Never use a vacuum with a beater bar attachment, since this can scratch the finish on the floor. Damp-mop once per month with a hardwood floor cleaner. Use a damp flat mop with a microfiber head. Do not dampen it with water. Instead, mist the mop head lightly with a cleaner made specifically for hardwood. Use the minimum amount of cleaner required to get the floor clean. If your floor has protective sealant on the surface, check the manufacturer's recommendations before using a cleaning product. Never wet-mop or steam mop a hardwood floor. Both can dull the finish and damage the wood. Follow a regular cleaning routine to maintain your hardwood floors. Regular cleaning is the most effective thing you can do to keep your hardwood floors looking great and damage-free. Create a cleaning routine and stick to it. For best results, dust every day with a micro-fiber cloth. Vacuum biweekly with a soft-bristled floor-brush attachment. Damp-mop once per month with a hardwood floor cleaner. Polish your floor every two to three months if it has a surface finish. Most hardwood floors have polyurethane surface finishes. These finishes seal and protect the wood underneath and give your floor a glossy shine. Normal wear and tear will eventually leave visible scratches and make the surface dull. Polishing periodically with a buffing pad can renew and refresh its appearance by restoring shine, buffing away microscopic scratches and evening out the floor's surface. Check the manufacturer's recommendations for polishing products and follow the instructions exactly. Never use wax on a floor with a urethane or other glossy finish. Use window coverings to protect your floors from heat and UV rays. Direct sunlight can discolor hardwood. Use protective window coverings, such as curtains and blinds, to block UV rays and protect the wood from excessive heat. If left uncovered and exposed to direct sunlight, most wood types will gradually begin to age and fade. Rearrange rugs and furniture regularly so the wood's appearance will age evenly. Refinish the surface every three to five years. If your floor has a polyurethane surface finish, it will need a maintenance coat reapplied every few years. When routine cleaning no longer restores the floor's shine, it's time to recoat the surface. How often you need to do this depends on the amount of foot traffic you have in your home. Unless you've done it before, you will probably need to contact a professional to refinish your floor's surface. If your floor surface has deep scratches, visible gouges, discoloration and other significant damage, consider sanding your floor and then refinishing it. Unless you have experience, contact a professional for this. You might have difficulty re-sanding a pre-finished floor. Many new pre-finished floors only have a small core of wood and can only be sanded once. Clean up spills immediately to prevent permanent stains. When liquid of any kind is allowed to pool on your floor, damage can occur. Try to get to spills as soon as they happen. Use a dampened cloth for sticky spills, but dry the spot immediately afterwards with a microfiber pad. Never use ammonia or regular household cleaning products to clean up a spill. These will damage the floor's surface. Try Windex instead. Avoid using water and vinegar to clean with, as well. Put down protective rugs and mats. Mats can drastically reduce the amount of dirt and debris that gets on your floor. Position them inside and outside your home's exterior doors. Encourage visitors and family members to wipe their feet on them. Place additional mats in other high-traffic areas, such as in front of the kitchen sink and down frequently used hallways. A floor mat should also be placed in any area where water might be splashed, like by the kitchen sink. Be sure to use floor mats that are made specifically for hardwood floors. Other types of mats, such as rubber-backed and non-ventilated mats, can trap moisture and debris underneath, causing surface damage to the floor. Shake the mats out regularly to prevent debris build-up. Protect the floor from furniture damage. The legs of furniture can leave behind significant scuffs and scratches on your floor's surface. Place stick-on felt protectors under the legs of your furniture and keep them on at all times. These felt protectors get dirty quickly, so replace them often. If you don't, the debris embedded in the felt may scratch your floor. Never drag a piece of furniture across a hardwood floor. You can also try using thin, cup-shaped plastic protectors to cover the legs of furniture. Avoid walking across the floor in high heeled shoes. A strict no-shoes policy isn't necessary to protect your hardwood floor, but high heeled shoes in particular can leave behind dents, scratches and scuffs. Try to avoid wearing them when you have to walk on the floors. Consider keeping a pair of slippers or socks near the entryway so you can easily remove your heels at the door. Keep nails and claws trimmed on pets. Unfortunately, your pet's claws can easily scratch the surface of your floor. Trim their claws on a regular basis to prevent this. If you are unable to trim the claws yourself, bring your pet to a professional groomer. Pay attention to your pet's paws, as well. Pets often track in debris and other substances that can stain and scratch your floor. Keep your pet's paw pads as clean as possible. | Dust every day with a microfiber mop or Swiffer. Vacuum every week with a soft-bristled floor-brush attachment. Damp-mop once per month with a hardwood floor cleaner. Follow a regular cleaning routine to maintain your hardwood floors. Polish your floor every two to three months if it has a surface finish. Use window coverings to protect your floors from heat and UV rays. Refinish the surface every three to five years. Clean up spills immediately to prevent permanent stains. Put down protective rugs and mats. Protect the floor from furniture damage. Avoid walking across the floor in high heeled shoes. Keep nails and claws trimmed on pets. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Flavour-Couscous | How to Flavour Couscous | To flavor raw couscous, boil the couscous in vegetable broth or any kind of meat stock instead of water. You can also add a dash of white wine, vinegar, lime juice, onions, shallots, or rosemary for more flavor. Once the couscous is cooked, let it cool for up to 10 minutes, then sprinkle it with shaved parmesan and top it with savory toppings, like sun-dried tomatoes and pine nuts. | Pick a non-instant couscous. If you are looking to add flavor to couscous, avoid the instant varieties. They cook too fast to really absorb flavors in the pot. Instead, opt for a non-instant couscous. Israeli couscous, which has larger granules, is especially good for picking up flavors and adding texture. While couscous looks and cooks like a grain, it is actually more of a pasta. Look for whole grain couscous to get more fiber and add some nutty flavors to your dish. Toast the couscous before boiling it. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or a nut oil like pistachio or almond oil per cup of couscous. Toast the pasta on a medium-high heat for three to five minutes, until it is a light golden brown. This brings out some of the natural flavors and aromas in the pasta. Have your water or stock boiling in a separate pot before you start toasting. Couscous should go straight from the pan into a boiling liquid. Boil couscous in a broth to make it more savory. Couscous will cook in water, but it tastes even better in a stock or broth. You want a little more liquid than is necessary to completely cover the couscous. This equates roughly to one and a quarter cups of broth or stock per cup of couscous. Chicken and vegetable broth both work wonderfully with couscous. They will add flavor and a bit of salt to your recipe without overwhelming other flavors. A broth made from bullion will work, but it will be saltier than a fresh broth. Avoid adding additional salt to a recipe made with bullion. Season your water if you don't have broth. If you don't have any broth or stock available, add flavor to your water. A couple of tablespoons of butter, and a quarter to a half a teaspoon each of onion powder, garlic powder, coriander, and dill can help liven up plain water. Add an acid to your couscous to fight salty flavors. When you cook couscous in a broth or stock, it can get salty. Adding an acid while the pasta cooks will help mask some of the salty flavors. If you plan to serve your couscous with meat, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice will do the trick. Other useful acids to serve in couscous include: About a quarter of a cup of white wine per cup of water A few tablespoons of white vinegar to cut salt without adding too much flavor A few tablespoons of balsamic or red wine vinegar for Mediterranean dishes A squeeze of lime juice for Southwestern sides or dishes that will include other fruit Add your favorite type of onion if you want more savory flavors. There are a lot of onions, and all of them go well with couscous. Add a clove or two of chopped up garlic per cup of couscous while the pasta is cooking to bring a mild, well-balanced flavor to your dish. You can also add: White onions for a stronger taste Shallots for a balanced savory and sweet flavor Leeks for a more mellow flavor, especially if you plan on adding fruit or herbs later Throw in fresh herbs to lighten and brighten your dish. Herbs pull double duty in couscous. They add in flavor, and they bring in aromas that enhance taste as you eat. Add in a handful of fresh herbs after your couscous has absorbed all its water but before you fluff it. Some herbs that pair well with couscous include: Mint for Middle Eastern inspired dishes Dill for dishes with a mild flavor, or those being served with fish Rosemary to brighten up a heavy dish Oregano to add depth to a light dish Basil for any Mediterranean or pilaf style dish Fluff your couscous. One of the most common mistakes with couscous is forgetting to fluff. While this doesn't add any new flavors, it helps separate the couscous granules. That, in turn, makes it easier to taste the flavor you have added. Once your couscous has cooked completely, take a fork and gently break about the grains. Do this until there are no large clumps left. Add meat to make it a main dish. Couscous isn't just a side. Add in a sausage like chorizo or sweet Italian sausage, or serve some chicken breasts over a bed of couscous to make it a main dish. The juices from the meat will absorb into the couscous, and the flavors added into the pasta while cooking will complement the meat. If you are a vegetarian, adding a roasted portobello mushroom is a great way to top couscous. You could also skip the meat entirely and add handfuls of fresh veggies. Mix in fresh produce for a couscous salad. Let your couscous cool for five or ten minutes. Then, add in as much fresh fruits and veggies as you want. Couscous is perfect for a grain salad, and it hold up against both sweet and savory. Bell peppers, cucumber, zucchini, and chopped spinach are all commonly seen in couscous dishes. You could also try produce like: Apples, which work well in dishes with sausage Dried apricots in Mediterranean or Middle Eastern inspired dishes Strawberries, which pair well with both balsamic vinegar and basil Any grilled vegetables to add a smoky flavor Cherry tomatoes, which can help balance a salty dish Snap peas or celery for a fresh touch Grate some cheese if you want a thick, creamy taste. Too much cheese can overwhelm the other flavors you put in your couscous, but a little bit can enhance the work you've put in. Melt a handful of fresh grated Parmesan to a cup of couscous for a creamy, savory side. You can also add feta to give your couscous a bit of a bite. Toss on some toppings for a bit of extra flavor. Add a final dash of flavor to your couscous by finishing it with a savory topping. Pine nuts, dried cherries, dried cranberries, pomegranate seeds, shaved Parmesan or Romano cheese, or sun-dried tomatoes all make excellent toppers. Pick one topping and add a small amount to your dish. These are all powerful flavors, so one serving size should be enough per cup of couscous. | Pick a non-instant couscous. Toast the couscous before boiling it. Boil couscous in a broth to make it more savory. Season your water if you don't have broth. Add an acid to your couscous to fight salty flavors. Add your favorite type of onion if you want more savory flavors. Throw in fresh herbs to lighten and brighten your dish. Fluff your couscous. Add meat to make it a main dish. Mix in fresh produce for a couscous salad. Grate some cheese if you want a thick, creamy taste. Toss on some toppings for a bit of extra flavor. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Flea-Trap | How to Make a Flea Trap | To make a flea trap, begin by filling a shallow dish with water, then stirring in 1 tablespoon of dish soap. Next, put the dish in a place where you've seen fleas and let it sit overnight. In the morning, empty the dish with the dead fleas and refill it with more soapy water. Then, repeat this process until the fleas are gone. If the dish isn't attracting enough of the fleas, try placing it under a lamp or near a candle, since fleas will be drawn to the warmth and light. | Fill a large, shallow dish with water. Ideal containers for a dish soap flea trap include cookie sheets, rubber tote lids, plates, and pie plates. You want a container with a large surface area and short sides. A shallow dish will help you catch as many fleas as possible, because the short sides won't act as a barrier for jumping fleas that might land in the trap. Add dish soap. Add 1 to 2 tablespoons (15 to 30 ml) of liquid dish soap to the water. Swish the water around with a spoon or your finger to distribute the soap throughout the water. Fleas don't drown in plain water because they aren't heavy enough to break the water's surface tension. Adding liquid dish soap to the water reduces the surface tension. When the fleas jump into the trap, they will sink and drown. You can also add some Alka Seltzer to the water to make the trap more effective. Place the trap where fleas have been. A homemade flea trap doesn't have the power to attract fleas, so it's best to put it somewhere that fleas have already been in your house. Place a towel on the floor to catch spills, and lay the trap on top of the towel on the floor. Make multiple flea traps for different rooms if necessary. Common places to find fleas include: On carpets and rugs Near pet bedding Near windows,doors and food Around pillows and furniture Around pet bowls Near drapes and curtains Leave the trap overnight. Fleas become active a couple of hours before sunset and stay active all night long, so the best time to catch them is overnight. Once you lay the trap, try to leave it undisturbed for the rest of the night. When possible, close the door to the room to keep pets and kids out. Empty and refill the trap each morning. In the morning, check the trap for dead fleas. If you caught any, dump the soapy water and rinse the dish. Fill the dish with fresh water, add more dish soap, and lay the trap out again on the towel for the next night. Repeat each night until you stop catching fleas. Use a lamp to attract fleas. Place a directional or table lamp beside the trap. Before bed, turn on the lamp and position the bulb above the trap, so the light shines into the trap. The fleas will be attracted to the light and warmth, and when they jump toward the light, they'll land in the trap below. Use an incandescent or other heat-producing bulb for your trap to attract the most fleas possible. Make sure the lamp is sturdy and not at risk of being knocked over into the water. Use this attractant only in rooms where you can shut the door and keep people and pets out while the lamp is on. Use a yellow-green filter on a light. Fleas are, for some reason, twice as attracted to yellow-green light as they are to other colors of light. You can increase the efficacy of your lamp attractant by using a yellow-green bulb, or by installing a yellow-green filter on a lamp with a regular bulb. You can buy colored light bulbs at many department and superstores. You may be able to find filters and gels at camera and art supply stores. Place a candle in the center of the dish. You can also use a tea light to create light and warmth that will attract fleas to the trap. Place a tea light or votive candle at the center of the trap, and light the candle before bed. As the fleas try to get close to the source, they'll fall into the trap and drown. Place the trap away from walls, drapery, and other flammable objects. Always exercise great care and proper fire safety measures when burning candles. Close off the room to prevent people and pets from entering when the candle is lit. Place an indoor plant beside the trap. Fleas are attracted to carbon dioxide, and this is part of the mechanism they use to find a host. Because plants release carbon dioxide at night, placing one beside the trap may help to attract more fleas. Dormant flea pupae are particularly sensitive to carbon dioxide, so this may be a great way to catch young fleas before they have a chance to lay eggs. Bathe and comb your pets. Pets are the most likely culprit for bringing fleas into your house, so keeping your pets clean and groomed will help stop the infestation at its source. To treat your pet: Comb your pet's fur with a flea comb, concentrating at the neck and tail especially Swish the comb around in soapy water after each brush to kill fleas After combing, soak your pet with a hose or in a tub Lather your pet's fur with a flea controlling shampoo Leave the shampoo on the fur for a few minutes Rinse your pet down Repeat regularly during the spring, summer, and fall Vacuum regularly. Adult fleas, eggs, larvae, and pupae can hide almost anywhere in your house, so you must vacuum three to four times each week to stay on top of them. Use a strong vacuum that will suck fleas and eggs from the nooks and crannies in your house. Use a brush or nozzle attachment for hard to reach areas. Vacuum floors, carpets, sideboards, furniture, around windows, and especially around areas where your pet spends the most time. After vacuuming with a bag-style vacuum, remove the bag, tie it tightly in a plastic bag, and remove it from the house immediately. Wash bedding, drapery, clothes, and rugs. Fleas and eggs won't survive a trip through the washing machine and dryer, so launder everything that can go into the washing machine, and hand wash everything else. Use the hottest water setting and highest heat setting in the washer and dryer. Items to wash include: Blankets Sheets Pillow cases Pillows Shoes Clothes Pet toys Pet bowls Towels Consider an insecticide. Flea infestations can persist for months if you're not successful at removing all the fleas and their eggs. For stubborn infestations, use a pyrethrin-based pesticide with an insect growth regulator, such as Ultracide or Onslaught. Apply the insecticide inside and outside. Get everybody out of the house. Put on gloves, goggles, long sleeves, and a respirator to apply the insecticide. Use a dust or aerosol and apply a light mist on floors, walls, furniture, and all other surfaces inside the house. Allow the dust or spray to settle before letting people back in. Vacuum after 48 hours. Outside, apply a layer of dust or spray to the garden, on bushes and shrubs, around tall grass, in wooded areas, and around windows and doors. | Fill a large, shallow dish with water. Add dish soap. Place the trap where fleas have been. Leave the trap overnight. Empty and refill the trap each morning. Use a lamp to attract fleas. Use a yellow-green filter on a light. Place a candle in the center of the dish. Place an indoor plant beside the trap. Bathe and comb your pets. Vacuum regularly. Wash bedding, drapery, clothes, and rugs. Consider an insecticide. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-an-FHA-Loan | How to Get an FHA Loan | To get an FHA loan, start by using the FHA Lender finder on the Department of Housing and Urban Development website to find an FHA-approved mortgage lender. Next, you'll need to supply the lender with documents that prove your employment status, savings, credit, and personal information. Once your lender has looked over your documents, you'll need to complete a loan application, and have the property you wish to buy appraised by an FHA-approved appraiser. Finally, you'll complete the transaction by signing the closing papers and paying the required down payment. | Make sure you qualify for an FHA loan. FHA Loans are known for having looser requirements than conventional home loans, but they do still have requirements. You must be able to meet most, if not all, of these standards to qualify. If you don't meet one of these standards, you can still potentially be approved for a loan if you can prove extenuating circumstances. You must prove that you have had 2 years of steady employment in the same line of work where your income has remained the same or increased. Your credit score should be 620 or higher with fewer than two 30-day late payments in the past 12 months, one 60 day late payment and any other late payment in the last 12 months, or one 90 day late payment in the last 12 months. However some lenders can accept a credit score as low as 500, with 10 percent down or 580 with 3.5% down, which is the minimum credit score required by the FHA to insure a loan. Your bankruptcy discharge date cannot be within two years of the FHA case assignment date or had a foreclosure in the past 3 years. However, if the foreclosure was on a HUD loan, then you may have to wait longer than three years. If you have, you will likely not qualify for an FHA loan. FHA Loans are available only for primary residence occupancy. You have to intend to live in the property you're buying. You must also, of course, have the cash to pay the down payment on your loan (the minimum down payment required is generally 3.5% of the purchase price). Meet with an FHA-approved mortgage lender or broker in your area. Only certain federally-approved lenders and brokers can offer these special loans. To get started, find a mortgage broker near you who is authorized to make FHA loans. You can find a mortgage lender near you by using the FHA Lender finder available on the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) website. Save money for a down payment. Almost every home loan requires a down payment - a percentage of the total purchase price paid up front. While FHA loans have especially small down payments, they are no exception. While it varies by location, FHA loans generally allow borrowers to obtain no more than 96.5 percent financing, which means you can expect to pay 3.5 percent of a home's cost up front. There's no way around it - you can't get the loan without making this lump-sum payment. You can also ask a family member to make the payment on your behalf, though the family member must write a note indicating that this is a gift and not a loan.[[ FHA loan requirements state that you can finance (pay as part of your loan) the upfront portion of the mortgage insurance premium. The monthly mortgage insurance premium, however, cannot be financed. Supply necessary documents. To apply for a loan, you'll need to provide the FHA-approved lender with documents that prove your employment status, savings, credit and personal information. The documentation that you'll need is fairly extensive, including job records, tax documents, and personal information. Be prepared with the following when you apply for an FHA loan: Addresses of the locations you've lived in the last two years. The addresses and names of your employers for the last two years, plus the amount of your gross monthly salary. Valid W2 forms for the past two years. Income tax forms submitted for the past two years. Complete a loan application. Your FHA-approved lender will be able to provide you with the correct application documents for your loan. Fill the application out as carefully and as factually as you can. If you don't know certain pieces of information, look them up. Don't guess - knowingly lying on federal documents is a crime. You may want to get pre-approved for your FHA loan. Talk to your lender about pre-approval - if your credit history and financial situation are in good order, you're more likely to be pre-approved. Before you fill out the application, you may want to look the document over to ensure you understand all the questions you'll be required to answer. The application is available as a.pdf online. Have the property appraised. Even if your application is accepted, you can still be denied a loan if the property you wish to buy doesn't pass a proper appraisal and inspection by an FHA-approved appraiser. However, keep in mind that the lender or broker must be the one to order the appraisal on behalf of the borrower. The appraisal cannot be ordered by the borrower. The appraisal is performed for two reasons: To ensure the property complies with health and safety regulations. To determine the property's value, which also takes into account the value of similar homes in the area. Complete the FHA loan transaction by signing the closing papers. Be sure to read everything before you sign the final paperwork. Never feel afraid to ask for clarification on anything you don't understand. Closing costs are generally 3.5 to 4 percent of the purchase price of your new home. Closing costs are miscellaneous fees and expenditures associated with acquiring a home loan, such as attorney's fees, the fee for the property appraisal, title examination and insurance, prepaid interest, property taxes, the recording fees and others. Take these into account when you're budgeting for your loan because you'll need the money for these costs on top of the money for your down payment. Expect to pay a loan origination fee of 1 percent or more of the value of the loan as well. If they charge more, negotiate the terms down to 1 percent, less than 1 or choose a different lender. Make sure to shop around with different lenders and brokers to get the best rate. Some may not even charge an origination fee. Know the pros and cons of FHA loans. FHA loans offer a variety of advantages, but they aren't for everyone. Before you try to get an FHA loan, make sure you understand how, specifically, an FHA loan differs from normal loans. Pros: FHA Loans are, as a general rule, easier to obtain than average home loans. Your credit history isn't as strictly scrutinized for an FHA loan as it is for other types of loans, so, depending on the specifics of your situation, you may still be able to get a loan if you have a foreclosure or a repossession in your credit history. FHA loans also require a smaller down payment - about 3.5% of the purchase price, as opposed to the 3 to 5% most loans other than USDA loans require. Finally, FHA loans are "assumable" - if you sell your home, the buyer can assume payments on your loan. Note that you must wait several years after a foreclosure before you can get another loan. Cons: FHA loans require your house to pass a special inspection and appraisal process performed by an FHA-approved appraiser. Also, because FHA loans, don't have the tight standards of normal loans, they require you to pay two kinds of mortgage insurance premiums. These are: Upfront Mortgage Insurance Premium (MIP). Borrowers must pay this premium, which is 1.75% of the home loan, regardless of their credit score. This can be paid as a lump sum or can be rolled into the mortgage payments. Monthly MIP. This premium is figured into your monthly mortgage payments. It is based on several criteria: your loan-to-value ratio, the size of your loan, and the timeline for paying off your loan. Determine whether you can afford monthly FHA mortgage payments. You will need to provide your monthly income to an FHA-approved lender. The lender will also investigate your monthly debt services (student loans, credit card debts, etc.) Lenders won't generally be allowed to give you a loan if the monthly payment on the loan requires too high a percentage of your income. To get approved for an FHA loan, your front-end ratio (your monthly housing expenses divided by your monthly gross income) has to be below 31%, although, with special justification, you may be able to get approved for a front-end ratio of up to 47%. Your back-end ratio (debt to income ratio) has to be less than 43%. As above, in situations with extenuating circumstances, you may be approved for a back-end ratio Seek advice. Still not sure? Don't make a decision about applying for an FHA loan before you completely understand what you're getting into. Talk to a professional - s/he will be able to help you decide whether an FHA loan is appropriate, based on the specifics of your situation. The U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) sponsors housing counseling agencies throughout the country designed to help you make informed decisions about housing, loans, your personal credit, etc. Search for a housing counseling agency near you via the HUD website's housing counselor locator. Alternatively, access the Housing and Urban Development (HUD)'s housing counseling hotline at (800) 569-4287. | Make sure you qualify for an FHA loan. Meet with an FHA-approved mortgage lender or broker in your area. Save money for a down payment. Supply necessary documents. Complete a loan application. Have the property appraised. Complete the FHA loan transaction by signing the closing papers. Know the pros and cons of FHA loans. Determine whether you can afford monthly FHA mortgage payments. Seek advice. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Wood-Fence | How to Clean a Wood Fence | Your wood fence can collect mud, mildew, or dirt over time, but luckily you have several easy options to clean it. If your fence has a few patches of dirt, scrub them off with a wire brush. Just be careful not to scrub too hard so you don't remove the paint. You can also remove small amounts of surface dirt by spraying down your fence with a garden hose. If you need to wash your fence more thoroughly, apply an oxygenated bleach with a large paintbrush. After the bleach has been on the fence for 15 minutes, scrub it off with a plastic-bristled brush. If you're trying to get rid of mildew, apply a solution made from 1/2 cup of white vinegar and 1 gallon of water to the area with a sponge. Let it sit for 15 minutes, then scrub it off with a brush. | Cover the ground around the fence with plastic. If you have plants you care about or you decide to use a chemical cleaner, you'll want to cover the area around the fence with plastic. Go to your local hardware store and purchase enough plastic sheeting to cover the plants and grass up to at least 3 feet (0.91 m) from your wood fence. Purchase just enough plastic for one section and move it with you when you move to the next to save money. Remove heavy debris with a wire brush. A stainless steel wire brush prepares a wood fence for painting, but it is also handy at getting rid of stuck on dirt and grime. Run a wire brush over any caked-on or large pieces of debris. Be careful not to scrub a wire brush into a painted fence too deeply. If you don't already have one, purchase a wire brush at a hardware or home improvement store. Substitute a plastic bristle scrub brush for a wire brush and use a little more pressure. Spray the fence down with a garden hose. Make sure you have a garden hose handy, whether or not you're using the assistance of a power washer. Wet your wood fence down and remove surface dirt by spraying all over with a garden hose on medium to high pressure. Use a lower powered washer. There's no need to spray your wood fence with the most powerful washer because the pressure can warp and indent the wood. Look for a pressure washer with a strength between 1500 and 2000 psi and steer clear of models with an engine over this. Snap on a 25-degree tip. A 25-degree tip on a pressure washer will fan out the water for a gentler wash. Attach a green 25-degree tip onto the end of the pressure washer sprayer. Whether you rent or own a pressure washer, you should have a variety of color coded tips and a 25-degree is typically green. Stand two feet away from your fence. Regardless of the tip you attach or the strength of your pressure washer, it's a powerful tool. Make sure you stand at least 2 feet (0.61 m) away from your wood fence to prevent any damage. Spray the water in long, even strokes. Standing 2 feet (0.61 m) away, use long, even strokes to spray off debris and bring your wood fence back to life. Slowly move the spray tip 1 foot (0.30 m) closer to the surface and spray the length of the fence using even strokes until the wood looks brighter. Vary the areas you concentrate on. Don't damage your wood fence by spraying too long in one spot. Change the area you're spraying frequently. After you've brightened several fence posts using long, even strokes and you don't see any more color change on the wood, move over to the next set of fence posts. Use an 18-degree tip for added cleaning. If your fence is not coming as clean as you'd like it, change the pressure with an 18-degree tip. Snap off the 25-degree tip and snap on an 18-degree tip. The added pressure should be enough to clean your fence spotless without damaging it. Use oxygenated bleach on a wood fence. Mix together an oxygen bleach powder, like Oxiclean, according to the manufacturer's directions. Apply the mixture to a water dampened fence with a large painter's brush, leave it for 15 minutes and then scrub the surface with a plastic, bristle scrub brush. Rinse the mixture and any remaining residue with a garden hose. Remove mold and algae with chlorine bleach. Get rid of green residue from algae or mold by mixing two parts water to one part chlorine bleach. Add a teaspoon of dish soap for extra cleaning power and scrub grime away with a bristle brush. Concentrate and use a little elbow grease on stained areas. Rinse your wood fence off thoroughly after you scrub all areas down. Use a commercial wood cleaner. You can also buy a pre-mixed cleaning solution to clean your wood fence by hand. Go to your local hardware or home improvement store and look for a cleaner specifically for wood. They will often be geared towards wood fences and decks. Follow specific instructions given by the product's manufacturer. Use white vinegar to remove mildew. Mix ⁄ 2 cup (120 mL) white vinegar to one gallon of warm water to remove unsightly mildew or moss. Apply the mixture with a sponge, let it sit for 15 minutes and scrub your fence with a bristle brush. Rinse with water from a garden hose thoroughly afterward. | Cover the ground around the fence with plastic. Remove heavy debris with a wire brush. Spray the fence down with a garden hose. Use a lower powered washer. Snap on a 25-degree tip. Stand two feet away from your fence. Spray the water in long, even strokes. Vary the areas you concentrate on. Use an 18-degree tip for added cleaning. Use oxygenated bleach on a wood fence. Remove mold and algae with chlorine bleach. Use a commercial wood cleaner. Use white vinegar to remove mildew. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Visa-for-India | How to Get a Visa for India | To get a visa for India if you're in the US, visit the Cox & Kings Global Services at https://www.in.ckgs.us/. Fill out the information requested on the site, including your passport number, current citizenship, reference contacts, and proposed itinerary. Then, use the results from that form to help you fill out the application on the Government of India's website. Print the application, attach a photograph, and have it notarized. Once everything is in order, mail the application and wait for your visa to arrive! | Identify the type of visa you need. India grants many different types of visas, depending on your reasons for visiting the country. The following are some of the visas you can get to visit India: Business visa. You should get a business visa if your company has business in Indiana. A business visa is not an employment visa. In fact, many people illegally use a business visa when what they want to do is work in the country. You will need a company's letter which shows a bona fide reason for going to India. Employment visa. If you have an offer for a job in India, then you can get an employment visa. You will need proof, such as an employment contract. Tourist visa. You can visit India as a tourist and stay for a maximum of 180 days. Passport-holders of some countries can stay only a maximum of 90 days in a visa that is valid for 180 days. Check your visa carefully, and note that the count of the days the visa is valid for starts at the issue date of the visa, not your entry into the country. (E-visas start at the date of entry, though.) Student visa. You can get a student visa if you have been admitted to an Indian educational institution. It will last for the period of your course of study. Medical visa. Foreign nationals who want to go to India for medical treatment can obtain a medical visa. Generally, along with a medical visa for the patient, a medical attendant visa is also issued for an accompanying support person. The duration of the visa can be from 1 month to 1 year, depending on the treatment plan. Make sure your passport is not too old. Your passport should be valid for at least 180 days from the date you plan to enter India. If your passport expires within the next six months, you should renew it before applying for your visa. Also make sure that there are at least two blank pages in the passport book. The passport book should not have been mutilated or changed. Give yourself sufficient time. Upon submission of your application, it will take a minimum of three days to approve the visa application. It could take longer, depending on the circumstances. If you are of Pakistani origin, then processing time could take much longer—up to seven or eight weeks. Each visa is approved individually. If a group of people are applying together (such as a family), then the individual visas might not all be approved on the same day. Visit the appropriate website. You can apply for an India visa by visiting www.indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa. Click on “Regular Visa Application” to apply for your visa. If you intend to visit India as a tourist for 60 days or less, then you can apply for an e-Tourist visa, if you are eligible. You will get an e-mail which you should print out and bring with you to receive the actual visa at Immigration in India. Enter your information. You will be asked for a variety of information. You should gather this information so that you can sit down and complete the visa application all in one sitting: your nationality your date of birth your expected date of arrival the visa type that you are applying for the name on your passport your passport information (number, place of issue, dates of issue and expiration) your location of birth your religion Upload a digital photo. You will need to upload a photo of yourself to complete the visa application. The photograph must meet particular requirements: JPEG format be a minimum of 10 KB but not larger than 300 KB of equal height and width have no shadows on the face or the background the head should be centered in the middle of the frame, with the full head shown (from top of hair to the bottom of the chin) Select an appointment date. You will have the option of selecting an appointment date with the Indian Mission before submitting the application. You could also choose not to select an appointment date online but instead print off your application and schedule a meeting with the Mission nearest you. In the United Kingdom, for example, there are Missions in London, Edinburgh, and Birmingham. You will select the Mission nearest you on the first screen of the application. After entering your country, a drop-down box will appear with the list of Missions. Pay the fee. The amount you pay will vary, depending on the type of visa you are applying for and how long you intend to stay. The amount will be displayed when you finish your online application. The fee amount is non-refundable, even if the visa is declined or you need to withdraw your application. Print out the application. You will have the option of printing out the application. Be sure to. At a minimum, write down your application identification number. Visit the appropriate website. You should visit the Cox & Kings Global Services (CKGS) website to obtain a visa. The website address is https://www.in.ckgs.us/. Gather relevant information. You should gather the following information before sitting down to apply for the visa: your passport number, date of issue, and expiration date any previous India visa that you have received details of all countries you have visited in the past six months your current citizenship information about your proposed itinerary, including all cities or places you will visit, in order of your planned visit reference contacts Fill in requested information. At the website, you will answer a series of questions. CKGS requests this information to help you understand if you are eligible for a visa. Also, the information will be auto-filled into the applicable forms. Get your results. At the results page, you will get your results as to whether you qualify for a visa and which kind you should apply for. You should also receive the following information: a documents checklist your fees the processing time a temporary number a sample of how to fill out the Indian government's form (which you should print) Go to the Government of India’s website. You should be directed to the Indian government's website, where you will fill out the government's application. Use the sample provided by CKGS to help you complete the online visa application. Make sure to fill in the correct jurisdiction. The CKGS sample should identify this information for you. Print out the application. Print on white, non-glossy paper using a laser printer. Also note the new web reference number that you will receive. You will use this number to track your application's status. Affix a photograph. You must include a photograph on your visa form. Your photograph should meet the following specifications: cannot be the same photograph that is in your passport must have been taken within the past six months be two inches by two inches be a color photograph should be an original photograph (and not a scan) should show your entire face, in frontal view, against a white background do not wear hats or other headgear unless you wear them for religious reasons if you wear glasses or a hearing aid, then make sure you are wearing them in the picture Print off supplemental documents. After completing and printing the visa form, you should click on the link that says “Appointment and Payment.” This will return you from the Indian government's website to the CKGS website. You will have to complete other supplementary forms. Most of the information should be auto-filled. Provide any missing information. Review and print the forms. Some will have to be notarized , so check before you sign them. You should also print a copy of your document checklist. Arrange your application packet. Gather all relevant forms, making sure that they have been properly notarized. You can either hand deliver your application to CKGS or mail it. Make sure the documents are put in the order they are listed on the document checklist. Tick off the boxes on the checklist so that you know you have included everything. If you choose to mail, then print off the mailing label. This will make the mailing process easier. Schedule an appointment. If you choose to hand-deliver your application, then you should schedule an appointment. Continue online to complete the “Appointment Process” section. Pick an appointment date and time slot. Wait for confirmation. Appear for your appointment on the given day. Pay. If you are submitting an application by mail, then you should include a money order, banker's check, or cashier's check. If you are hand-delivering the application, then you can pay during your scheduled appointment. Make payment to “Cox & Kings Global Services USA LLC.” Print the name. Personal checks are not accepted. However, you can pay by credit or debit card on the CKGS website. Call with questions. If at any time you need help, then you should call CKGS at 516-206-1483. Someone is available from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm Eastern Standard Time. Check if you qualify. If you are traveling to India as a tourist and plan to stay for 60 days or less, then you could apply for an e-Tourist visa. Only people from certain countries can apply. For a full list of countries, visit the Indian government's website at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html. Give yourself enough time. You must apply at least four days in advance of your arrival in India with a 30 day window. For example, if you apply on March 1, then you can select as your arrival date March 5 to April 4. Get a photograph. You will need to upload of photograph of yourself for your application for an e-Tourist visa. The photographs must meet the following specifications: the photo must be in JPEG format the photograph must be between 10 KB and 1 MB in size the height and width must be equal the photograph should be front view of your full face with your eyes open Center your head within the frame make sure the photograph captures your entire face, from the bottom of your chin up to the top of your hair the photograph should have a white background without borders make sure that no shadows cover the face or background Scan the first page of your passport. Scan the page of your passport that contains your personal identification information. You must upload a scanned copy in PDF format. The minimum size of the file is 10KB and the maximum is 300 KB. For help on scanning, see Scan Documents. Visit the Indian government’s website. You can apply for your e-Tourist visa by visiting https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/info1.jsp and completing the online application. The application will request similar information as a request for a regular visa: your passport type your nationality your port of arrival your date of birth your email address your name your sex your country of birth your education level and religion information about your passport (number, date and place of issue, as well as the dates it is valid) Pay the fee. Your fee will depend on the country you are applying from. It can range from $0 to a maximum of $60. The fee is not refundable. Contact with questions. If you are confused or need help, you can email [email protected] with questions. You can also call +91-11-24300666 with questions. | Identify the type of visa you need. Make sure your passport is not too old. Give yourself sufficient time. Visit the appropriate website. Enter your information. Upload a digital photo. Select an appointment date. Pay the fee. Print out the application. Visit the appropriate website. Gather relevant information. Fill in requested information. Get your results. Go to the Government of India’s website. Print out the application. Affix a photograph. Print off supplemental documents. Arrange your application packet. Schedule an appointment. Pay. Call with questions. Check if you qualify. Give yourself enough time. Get a photograph. Scan the first page of your passport. Visit the Indian government’s website. Pay the fee. Contact with questions. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Handle-an-Ex-Who-Harasses-You | How to Handle an Ex Who Harasses You | Handling an ex who's harassing you may feel overwhelming, but you can start to take control over the situation by being firm and assertive when they bother you. For example, be sure to tell your ex that their behavior makes you uncomfortable or scared. This is also the first step in taking legal action if the situation escalates, so make note of what you said and when you said it. If your ex persists in harassing you, try to avoid them whenever possible. In addition, ignore their texts and phone messages, unless you think that this will only lead to more messages. In that case, respond in a brief, positive way, like “I still respect you, but I don't want to date you. Please stop texting me.” | Differentiate between criminal harassment and pestering. Assault, abuse, threats, and even stalking are considered punishable criminal offenses. If you are being subjected to one of these forms of harassment, report your ex to the authorities immediately. They will keep an eye on your ex and even issue a restraining order. On the other hand, your ex may not be doing any physical or emotional harm, but simply hasn't accepted the break-up. If the latter is the case, there are steps you can take to make it more comfortable while they come to terms with the separation. A restraining order places restrictions on their interactions with you. If they violate the restraining order, they could be arrested. Many states have a legal distinction between civil harassment and domestic abuse. Domestic abuse is between close family members and people currently or formerly in a romantic relationship. Civil harassment is between 2 people who are not and have never been close family members or romantically involved. However, the illegal behavior is the same – assault, abuse, threats, stalking, and other physically and emotionally harmful behaviors. Abuse can be physical or emotional. Hitting, shouting, and insults are examples of abuse. Broadly defined, it is harm done to you. Threats of abuse can be just as harmful emotionally. They can be expressed or simply implied. Pestering may just be repeated calls or emails to you. If your ex is simply calling you often to find out what you are thinking about them, it may not constitute harassment yet. Keep track of your ex’s behavior. If the harassment gets worse, you might change your mind to see the authorities. They will need to know some details about your ex's exact behaviors. Keeping track of them, even writing them down, is a good idea in case you feel their attempts at contacting you may turn violent. Who, what, when, where, and why – these are basic details any authority figure will ask about up front. How often is it happening? Are you alone when they harass you? Have you told them that their advances are unwelcome? Is there hard evidence of their harassment? It may not be necessary to have criminal charges brought against them without physical evidence of harassment, but it would make it an open-and-shut case. Tell them their behavior is unwelcome. It may seem obvious to you, but vocalizing your fear and discomfort to them may get them to stop. It is also the first step in legal recourse against their behavior. By establishing that you have told them to stop, their continued attempts at contacting or harming you become criminal offenses. For example, try telling them, "I know you only want to spend more time with me, but I your repeated calls make me uncomfortable. I want you to stop calling me for at least 2 weeks. I'll get in touch with you if I need you." Putting a time frame on it may make it an easier pill for them to swallow. After 2 weeks, or however long you see fit, they may not be as obsessed with you any more. Recognize when they are not trying to harm you. Not all 'harassment' is criminal or violent. It may just be residual feelings of infatuation gasping for air. Go easy on them while they come to terms with the break up. There is no need to contact the police about someone who is causing no harm. For example, an ex may try to bring you lunch at work. It is unwanted behavior, but they are only bringing you food. Remove yourself and your relationship from the story, and see their behavior in its most basic form. Do the ‘reasonable person test. ' Imagine there are impartial bystanders witnessing or listening to your ex's potentially abusive actions. Would they feel alarmed or contact an authority? If so, your ex's actions may be criminally punishable. It is important to figure out if they are a threat to your safety as soon as possible so you can contact the police before you get hurt. For example, imagine your last face-to-face. Did they raise their voice or act physically imposing, or imply future abuse? Did they use unfriendly language? If not, they may not be interested in taking their attempt to win you back any farther than asking you what they did wrong. Avoid them. If they are behaving generally rational, your ex's advances are fueled by contact with you. Don't give fuel to the fire. Try to avoid them whenever possible. This may be difficult if you work together or socialize in the same circles. Nonetheless, the more you can break off contact with them, the easier it should be to gradually come to terms with the break up. Take note if your ex intensifies their attempts see you after you break off contact. This irrational behavior may be a sign of criminal harassment or even psychosis. If they become more desperate or abusive, contact the police immediately. Tell your friends and family. It is important that you have a support network in times like these. Keeping others aware of your ex's behavior will also serve as an impartial judge of whether they cross the line. Have them check in with you regularly to make sure you are okay and the pestering hasn't intensified to abusive harassment. Don’t respond to their communication. If they leave you messages/texts that make your blood boil, take a moment before doing anything. It is probably best not to respond at all, and let their feelings for you suffocate. Alternately, you may think that will only make them more determined to getting in touch with you. If so, keep your comments and responses as positive, respectful and brief as possible. Communicate to them that you respect them, but no longer wish to have a romantic relationship. If they won't stop texting you, try a quick message like, "I still respect you, but I don't want to date you. Please stop sending these texts." Create a new email filter or account. Until this blows over, you may want to avoid seeing their correspondence. Most email clients make it easy to filter out unwanted messages. However, if you don't even want to be confronted with the possibility of opening their email, you might create a new temporary email account. Share the address only with those you need to contact, and tell them why. Making sure your ex doesn't find out this email address will create a safe space for you. For a step-by-step guide to creating an email filter, see this. Block their phone number. Their phone calls and voice messages will be harder to ignore than their emails. This will be a major source of stress for you until the issue is resolved. Luckily, it is easy to block phone numbers. Look at this guide for instructions on how to do this with a variety of phone carriers. Socialize with other friend groups. If your ex is part of one of your circles of friends, take this as an opportunity to explore new forms of entertainment and cultivate new friendships. It is unlikely that all your old friends break off contact with you unless they have a reason to. Nonetheless, take the stress off of your interactions with them by keeping a safe distance. They will appreciate you keeping them out of the dispute as well. Keep interactions short. Sometimes you cannot avoid direct contact with an ex. Try to keep the contact brief and public. They are unlikely to do anything abusive with others around, and it should make you more comfortable. If they do cross the line to harassment, others will be around to step in or at least act as witnesses. Acting stressed or hysterical may make your ex feel like they need to 'help' you. By having calm, public interactions with them, they may see your happiness and not want to disturb it. After all, if they truly cared for you, they would want you to prosper even if it meant leaving you alone. | Differentiate between criminal harassment and pestering. Keep track of your ex’s behavior. Tell them their behavior is unwelcome. Recognize when they are not trying to harm you. Do the ‘reasonable person test. Avoid them. Tell your friends and family. Don’t respond to their communication. Create a new email filter or account. Block their phone number. Socialize with other friend groups. Keep interactions short. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-with-Excessive-Licking-in-Older-Dogs | How to Deal with Excessive Licking in Older Dogs | To deal with excessive licking by an older dog, make sure to walk it at least once a day, since older dogs often start licking out of boredom. Alternatively, play soothing music at a low volume to calm your dog down. If you have to leave your dog alone, give it an item of clothing that smells like you, since excessive licking is often triggered by fear of separation. You should also consider taking it to the vet to see if the licking is a symptom of a medical condition, such as dry skin or allergies. | Take your dog to the vet. If your dog begins excessive licking in old age, or at any time, you should take your dog to the vet. Excessive licking is a possible symptom for a number of different treatable medical conditions. Take your dog to the vet and explain when the licking first began, and what area of the body, or objects the dog is licking. Possible causes for licking include: Allergies. Boredom. Dry Skin. Hormonal imbalance. Pain. Parasites. Consider allergies. Some excessive licking among dogs is caused by allergies. For example, your dog may have an allergic reaction to their food or something they ate. They could also experience an allergic reaction to environmental triggers, such as pollen or mold in the air. Allergies in dogs typically result in a skin irritation, rather than sneezing or a runny nose, so licking can be a common indicator of an allergic response. For example, your dog may begin licking their paws because they have been exposed to an allergen. Visit your vet in order to diagnose the problem and treat with antibiotics, steroids, anti-itch products, or by changing their food. Ask about nausea. Excessive licking, typically of the air, can also be a symptom of nausea, which can be associated with more serious illnesses in older dogs. Nausea can trigger the production of excess saliva, which will cause the dog to lick in an attempt to remove the buildup. For example, diseases that cause gastrointestinal discomfort and nausea include: liver disease, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, inflamed bowels, and intestinal problems. Take your dog to the vet and have them run tests to determine if the licking is associated with nausea. Tests may include x-rays, abdominal ultrasounds, blood tests, skin allergy testing, or even endoscopy, if necessary. Determine if it is a neurological condition. Excessive licking, primarily among older dogs, can be associated with neurological disorders. For instance, the licking could be associated with a brain tumor, epilepsy, or hydrocephalus. These conditions are more common in older dogs and can often be connected to the progressive nature of the condition. The licking may be a result of a neurological disorder if: It is extremely difficult to interrupt the compulsive licking. If the dog seems disoriented while licking. Other symptoms such as seizures or circling are observed in context with the licking Create a treatment plan. Once your vet has identified the medical issue that has caused the excessive licking by your older dog, you should come up with a treatment plan. Ask your doctor how best to treat the condition. You will likely need to provide your dog with some form of medical treatment, which may include surgery, medicine, or a dietary change. Read and follow the instructions that are provided with all medications and talk with your doctor about post-surgery care. Talk with your doctor about how to care for your dog now that the condition has been identified. Ask the following questions: "How much exercise should my dog get?" "Can they eat their regular food?" "Is there anything I can do to make them comfortable?" Check for cognitive dysfunction. Problems including senility and dementia can also cause excess licking behaviors in dogs. Other indicators of cognitive dysfunction may include disorientation, irritability, decreased desire to play, inability to learn new tasks, decreased self-grooming, incontinence, and loss of appetite. Diagnosis of cognitive dysfunction should be made by a vet. They will go through the dog's history an current symptoms with you to see if this may be the cause of your dog's licking. While there is no cure for cognitive dysfunction, therapy, medication, and support can help your dog maintain a close-to-normal life and may help reduce some symptoms. Determine the trigger. Excessive licking among older dogs can also be associated with compulsive behavioral disorders that are triggered by anxiety or conflict. As your dog ages, they may become more disoriented and anxious. Excessive licking may develop as a compulsive behavior associated with stress. Try and determine what is causing this behavior. For example, does your dog lick while you are out of the house? Perhaps this is a result of separation anxiety. Maybe they stop and lick themselves when you say “come” because they are unsure if they will be scolded or praised. Try and determine the pattern associated with the compulsive behavior and treat accordingly. Create a comforting environment. If you find your dog's licking is associated with separation, try to create a comforting environment for them when you leave. There are a number of things you can do to reduce your dog's stress and anxiety while they are left alone. Try these tips: Give them a treat to occupy their attention when you leave the house. Provide music and lighting to stimulate them while they are alone. Give them their favourite toy or an article of clothing that smells like you to comfort them. Play with them daily. Some older dogs may begin a compulsive behavior, such as licking, out of boredom. Many pet owners will stop playing with and exercising their dog as they get older. They believe that the animal is unable to exert energy and needs to rest. In reality you should continue to stimulate your dog daily. This can help prevent neurological disorders. Take your dog for a short walk every day. Engage in gentle play with your dog for at least 10 minutes twice daily. Remain calm while your dog is sick. If your dog is suffering from anxiety, it is important that you remain patient and calm. Dogs can feel the energy of their human companions. Try to remain calm and be a comforting source for your dog. Here are a few things that you can do to help relax your dog: Take deep breaths when you are anxious. Talk in a soft and gentle tone around your dog. Make deliberate and predictable movements around your aging dog. | Take your dog to the vet. Consider allergies. Ask about nausea. Determine if it is a neurological condition. Create a treatment plan. Check for cognitive dysfunction. Determine the trigger. Create a comforting environment. Play with them daily. Remain calm while your dog is sick. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Run-Away-from-Home-As-a-Teen | How to Run Away from Home As a Teen | If you're a teen who's thinking about running away from home, keep in mind that running away should be a last resort, since it can be very difficult to survive on the streets. To find out what other options are available to you, try calling the National Runaway Safeline at 1-800-786-2929, where you can speak to someone anonymously. If you're sure that running away is the best option, make sure to pack only the basic necessities, such as a sleeping bag, clothes, cash, toothbrush and toothpaste, and non-perishable food, like granola bars and canned goods. By packing light, you'll be able to move quickly, especially if you're in a dangerous situation. Then, run to a safe location, such as a homeless shelter or halfway house. If you don't have such places nearby, try to sleep in a busy place, like a park or beach, and stay on the move during the night. That way, you'll look more like a normal person taking a nap, which will make it easier for you to stay on the run. | Have a good reason for leaving. Do not run away for kicks, adventure, or to teach your parents a lesson. Living on the streets is difficult, and nature will not provide you with blankets when you are cold or food when you are hungry. If you are being abused or neglected, the safest solution is to call Children's Aid or the police before trying to run away. Some teens, especially those with troubled families, think that foster care is worse than running away. Whatever your experience may be, the majority of foster parents truly care about the health and well-being of their foster children. Don't hold false perceptions. Running away from home is hard. You will be separated from the places you are familiar with and the people who know and support you, and you will be completely responsible for satisfying all your basic needs. Even adults struggle with daily life - don't think this will be any different for you. You may feel like running away is your only solution, but this kind of thinking is never accurate. There are always many solutions to a problem, and running away should be a last resort. As a teen, it will be difficult for you to make money to pay for food and shelter. Unfortunately, because of this reason, around 1 in 3 teens who run away resort to trading sexual favors for food or a place to stay. This will put you at risk for sexually transmitted diseases, sexual abuse and/or manipulation. Evaluate your reason(s) for leaving. You may believe that your reason(s) for running away from home are strong justifications for wanting to do so. However, when you feel strongly about something, it can be difficult to think clearly. Take time to carefully think about why you want to run away; get as much perspective on your issue as you can. Be sure you are not making a hasty decision. It is never OK to run away because of your: Alcohol use Drug use Feelings of failure Consider getting anonymous advice. There are hotlines available for teens in difficult situations, and these are well equipped to listen to your problem and offer specific advice to you. There may be solutions to your problem that you haven't considered that are safer than running away, and talking to someone can help you figure these solutions out. The National Runaway Safeline is open 24/7. You can call for advice at 1-800-786-2929, or visit the Safeline website at: http://www.1800runaway.org Remember that, no matter how difficult your situation or how alone you feel, there are people who care deeply about your safety and well-being. Realize the nature of your problem. Though running away might remove you from the problem you are facing, it will not solve it or make you feel better about the way you've been treated. In fact, by running away, you may cause whatever is happening to you to shift to someone else. Plan ahead. Running away without proper preparation can put your life in danger. Take as much time as you need to figure out a game plan. Where you are going, transportation, work, and shelter are all important to consider. Gather supplies beforehand, some of which might include: Cash Change for the laundromat First aid kit Coat Sleeping bag Socks Change of clothes (x2) Change of underwear/bra (x2) Toothbrush/paste Tampons/pads Hairbrush Water bottle Non-perishable food (granola bars, canned food) Pepper spray Deodorant Travel light. Carrying a heavy load can slow you down if you need to move quickly. As a teen runaway, many other homeless will be bigger and stronger than you, and if you need to escape, you need to do so quickly, without being bogged down by creature comforts. Only pack necessities. Take as much cash as you are able, but be wary of credit or debit cards, which can be tracked. Pack for your destination. If you are heading somewhere cold, your greatest concern should be keeping warm. Keep in mind that arid climates, like the desert, get very cold after dark. A lightweight thermal blanket could save your life. Choose to run to a safe location. Staying in a forest, park, or nature preserve is not recommended. All it takes is a bad step and you may be stranded with a broken ankle far from medical help. If you want to live in the country, be sure to travel along main routes where you can flag down help if needed. If you live in a city or are running to an urban area, try to find a shelter. If you don't have any safe options, try to rest in a busy place during the day. Sleep on a blanket in the park or at the beach during the day. This will make you look less suspicious and more like a normal person taking a nap. A location with public transportation is a good choice, as it is cheaper and faster than other options. A bicycle can be useful, but its weight and safety can be a bigger hassle than help. Bridges offer protection from the elements and the cement will hold warmth from the day through the night. Beware of others if you attempt sleeping under a bridge; these are popular locations for other homeless. If you chose to go to a homeless shelter, you must be prepared to answer questions when you arrive. A friend or a relative's house should be considered, but will come with its own rules. You will always have to respect the homes of others. Find a place to get the help you need. The most important thing you can do after you escape your situation is getting to a place of wellness. Whatever trauma made you leave home in the first place, it is likely there will be some resulting issues you'll need to address before you are able to start living a healthy and happy life. Before you leave, do some research on the area you are running away to, and find halfway homes, detox centers, or counseling centers so you can get yourself the help you need. If you have turned to drugs or alcohol as a way of coping with the things you have suffered, this will eventually cause even greater harm to you physically and emotionally. You are not to blame; whatever you have suffered has pushed you into a vulnerable place. However, you cannot truly be well on your own until you address and resolve your addictions or dependencies. Consider making an anonymous tip. Even if you've made up your mind to never return home, there may be other people suffering from the same abuse or neglect that you did. Especially if you have siblings, please consider making an anonymous call or tip to the police or Child Protective Services in your state, or talking with ChildHelp from a public phone or using a friend's phone. Child Helpline: (800) 422-4453 Think ahead about work. As a teen, even working at a fast food establishment will require you to have parental consent along with other necessary information, like an address and your Social Security number. Eventually, you will run out of supplies and money. You will need a source of income to support yourself. When applying for a job, hint that you are looking to make some extra money working "under-the-table", which means you will be paid directly by your employer secretly, usually in cash. Some under-the-table work options you can consider: Busboy (restaurant) Dishwasher Landscaping/gardening Tutor Babysitter Mover Painter Escape your situation. Leave when you won't be seen and be sure you won't be immediately noticed. For example, you may want to call in to school sick and leave on your way, or you might consider leaving right after everyone is in bed. This will give you a few hours to put distance between you and the place you are running from. Try to make it as far away as possible before stopping to rest. To make yourself more difficult to find, you should try to get out of town, and eventually, your state. The train or a bus can take you a great distance for a small cost. Wear a cap with a brim or a hood so that your face is covered and you do not show up on security footage. To make yourself less noticeable, dye your hair a common color that's different from your natural shade and/or cut your hair. Be sure your new haircut/dye job doesn't look sloppy; some might question your appearance if you aren't careful. Take clothes you rarely or never wear. You can always purchase new clothing cheap from a thrift store so you aren't wearing anything that can identify you. Always put food first. This is your top priority. You can fill up a bottle of water at nearly any sink, but beware labels that say "Not Potable", as this means the water isn't intended for drinking. Take all food you find (but make sure it is good to eat) and all food offered to you, and be sure to eat it before it goes bad, even if you aren't hungry. However, never take food from someplace or someone that doesn't look or isn't reputable or trustworthy. If someone or someplace looks suspicious, or if food smells or looks suspicious, take the food, but when the person leaves, toss it away. Don't refuse it or toss it away in their sight because they might hurt you if you do so. Trust your instincts. If something doesn't feel right, it probably isn't. For example, if you are given some spinach and you feel a sick feeling in your stomach as you look at it, do not eat it. Or if someone or someplace looks reputable or safe, but you feel suspicious, don't eat the offered gift. Some people can and will give you poisoned food and drinks. Never, under any circumstances, drink any liquids offered to you. They may be spiked or contain poison. Only drink water from water fountains where the water is good to drink. Practice good hygiene. This is especially important when you start looking for work, but will also keep you from getting picked up by police for vagrancy (homelessness). Stay away from dangerous places where robbers or rapists could be lurking, which includes alleys or secluded areas of parks. Although cleanliness is important, try to look as sexually unappealing as you can to protect yourself from predators. Dress like you are going to school or an informal church event, not like you are going to a party. Clothing with lots of pockets will provide you with places to keep necessary supplies. Never resort to prostitution or to using alcohol/drugs. Don't let anyone pay you for sex. This could result in you getting hurt, robbed, or the person might even refuse to pay you after finishing with you. The person may wait until you are vulnerable before asking you to go farther than you are comfortable. Your money will be necessary to pay for things you need to survive; do not waste any of your limited cash on alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes. Although other runaways/homeless may abuse drugs or alcohol, and may even offer you some, always refuse the offer. It will be difficult for you to defend yourself when drunk, high, or incapacitated. Determine places you can take care of your needs. Private/public restrooms, while not the most comfortable, are good places you can groom yourself. Have an answer ready for anyone who questions you. Something like, "I've been traveling with my mom all day to get to my grandparents house and we stopped here to freshen up," might prevent the police from being called on you. Ladies can use Nair to remove hair and maintain appearances. Try not to look suspicious when taking care of your bathroom routine. Maintain your safety. There are many tools you can use to keep safe, like a rape whistle, pepper spray, or a multi-tool, which can be used both for protection and in emergencies. Keep your tool well hidden but within reach at all times. Money should be kept in your underwear, not in socks or bras, which is where many people first look. If someone says, "I saw you with money last night," say that it's all gone, even if you still have some. Keep a spare, visible bag or purse with a few dollars and coins. This way, if you're robbed, they'll take this instead. If you run out of money for food, be careful when begging. This will draw attention, and in some cases, upset other homeless. It is also illegal to beg for money in some places. A supermarket that offers free samples is a great place you can find food without drawing attention to yourself. If someone asks, you can always say you're waiting for your mom. Do not steal. This is not only illegal and immoral, but it will draw the attention of others, including the police. Stealing can result in even more serious consequences than simply being returned from where you have run. Have answers to questions. People will likely ask questions if they see you around when school is in session or brushing your teeth in a public restroom. Don't respond to these with the first thing that comes to mind. Come up with a story explaining your situation and stick to it; this will prevent inconsistencies that will make people question you. Think ahead of time about what people might say in response to your story so you are prepared with a believable response. Do not use your cellphone. This can be used to locate you after you've run away, but in an emergency, it can save your life. Keeping your cell phone turned off will prevent you from being tracked, or you can replace your SIM card. | Have a good reason for leaving. Don't hold false perceptions. Evaluate your reason(s) for leaving. Consider getting anonymous advice. Realize the nature of your problem. Plan ahead. Travel light. Choose to run to a safe location. Find a place to get the help you need. Consider making an anonymous tip. Think ahead about work. Escape your situation. Always put food first. Practice good hygiene. Never resort to prostitution or to using alcohol/drugs. Determine places you can take care of your needs. Maintain your safety. Do not steal. Have answers to questions. Do not use your cellphone. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Disguise-Yourself | How to Disguise Yourself | To disguise yourself, start by changing your physical appearance such as your haircut, makeup, and clothes. If you don't want a drastic haircut, try wearing a realistic-looking wig for a quick shift in appearance. Pick out clothes you wouldn't normally wear, and opt for baggier or older trends to help you blend in. Don't forget sunglasses, hats, and painted-on moles for extra identity coverage! | Change your hair. Getting a drastic haircut is the quickest way to look completely different. If you want to disguise yourself, though, you're going to want to pick something that won't draw attention--a blue mohawk or a pink costume wig probably aren't the best choices. Men can style their hair differently by using products like hair spray or gel to create a more elaborate "do" than usual, or could shave their head completely. Also consider a dye-job, or using cheap talcum powder to make some gray streaks that will really throw people. If you have facial hair, shave it into a different shape or get rid of it completely. If you don't have any, consider growing a beard or a sneaky mustache. Women can consider getting a realistic-looking wig or extensions to change the basic shape of their hair. You can also quickly go back to your "old" style that way, if you want to for further disguises. Keep them guessing by changing frequently and without warning. Dye your hair a different color each week and ensure that you'll never be noticed. Try combinations of highlight patterns and full dye jobs. Wear glasses and sunglasses. It worked for Clark Kent. By adding some frames to your wardrobe, you'll pass the "glance test." People will recognize you when they look closely, sure, but you'll be able to get past their initial screen. By adding glasses or sunglasses, you'll round out a disguise. If you have contacts, consider trying color-change contacts, or digging out those old frames you no longer wear. Make friends with make-up. For a dramatic effect, paint moles, beauty marks, wrinkles or other imperfections on your face. Lighten or darken your skin to further confuse people. Get a spray-on tan or a conspicuous fake tattoo. If you're a guy, or even if you just don't normally wear make-up, a little can go a long way in changing your appearance. Just adding some eyeliner and changing your clothes can give you a whole different aura. Change your size and posture. Try changing your height with heeled shoes, or by slouching more and carrying yourself differently than usual. Consider losing or gaining weight, if you have the time to do so, or simply begin dressing as if you had. Pad your clothes with extra layers to look as if you've put on a few pounds. Change your style of clothes. If you usually look tidy and stylish, consider decking yourself out in punk clothes or going goth. Wear old clothes that you rarely ever wear, or raid one of your parent's closets for vintage stuff your acquaintances won't be used to seeing. Men should consider dressing up or dressing down in age. If you usually dress like a 19 year old, consider how your father dresses and start taking cues from him. Wear polo shirts tucked into khaki pants with your cellphone on a belt clip and you'll age 20 years in a minute. Women could consider dressing in a more masculine style, wearing pants where they might normally wear skirts as a way of changing their general presence. If people are used to seeing you in make-up and nice clothes, it'd be a surprise to suddenly be wearing a basketball jersey. Accessorize. It will help for your new look to be believable. If you combine women's dress pants with cholo shirts, it'll be a surprising disguise, but not necessarily one that will last. It'll just look strange. Think of yourself as an actor who's changing into a character that everyone must believe. Wear hats, appropriate jewelry, and look-appropriate gear. Change the fit of your clothes. Wearing baggier clothes than you usually wear can be a good way of changing your basic body shape and looking different. Buy some surprising items a few sizes larger than you'd normally wear them. Layer your clothes to add some weight to your appearance, then shed layers over the course of the day to ensure that you look different in the morning and at night. No one will be able to find you if you keep changing. Bring back-up clothes. A few years ago, an Asian man boarded a plane wearing a silicon mask that made him look like an elderly white man, and then changed clothes and took the mask off in the middle of the flight, getting past everyone. By having a ready supply of clothes to change into (in a back-pack or purse) you can not only disguise yourself but continue evolving your disguise over the course of the day. Keep make-up and emergency hair dye on your person for a quick transformation. Shoe polish can work in a pinch. Develop a new persona. Give your new identity a name and develop a believable story for yourself. This will help you "get into character" better, and make your performance more natural. Develop a different sense of humor than you would normally have, start listening to different music, and developing different attitudes. If you're naturally liberal, imagine that you were a conservative Republican and adopt the style, attitudes, and demeanor of that character. You can even consider working an accent into your disguise. Practice while you're by yourself and only speak in that accent in public. Change your accents periodically with different people to keep them guessing. Age yourself. Looking older or considerably younger is a particularly effective way to fool people. Dying your hair gray when you're young and working a stooped, hunched walk with a cane into your routine will render you unrecognizable to people who know you. Putting a pebble into your shoe is uncomfortable, but if you're committed to disguising yourself, it can be a good way to ensure that you'll walk differently. Brace your knee with a brace to give yourself a natural limp. Avoid people. The most important part of a disguise is to not to attract attention to yourself. "Hiding in plain sight" is the best way to disguise yourself. Avoid making eye contact with people you know, keeping your head low and walking calmly and slowly. Looking as if you're busy, as if you're on your way somewhere in particular with something to do will ensure that you look inconspicuous. Dress up as a member of the opposite sex. If you want to go for broke, consider dressing either ambiguously or as a convincing member of the opposite sex. Switch back and forth to keep your disguise varied. | Change your hair. Wear glasses and sunglasses. Make friends with make-up. Change your size and posture. Change your style of clothes. Accessorize. Change the fit of your clothes. Bring back-up clothes. Develop a new persona. Age yourself. Avoid people. Dress up as a member of the opposite sex. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Talk-About-Sex | How to Talk About Sex | If you feel uncomfortable talking about sex, start by opening up the topic, even if you don't know exactly what you want to say. Just breaking the ice can make the rest of the conversation flow more easily. Remember that sex is perfectly natural, and it's best to use clear, direct language instead of using euphemisms. When talking to a sexual partner, be as clear as possible about what you are and aren't comfortable doing, and be firm about your expectations. You should also talk about STI testing before you start getting intimate with your partner. It may seem uncomfortable at first, but you can simply say, “Hey, have you been tested recently?” and be frank about your own sexual health as well. The conversation should be an ongoing, open dialogue where both people feel heard and safe. | Be frank. Lay out your thoughts as plainly as possible. Avoid euphemisms, and try to work past your initial discomfort. If you aren't comfortable referring to "sex," try using a similar but "softer" phrase. Instead of saying that you are "having sex," say that you are "making love," or "being intimate," or "getting down." Each of these phrases has its own set of connotations. Remember that sex is perfectly natural. One might argue that, indeed, nothing is more natural. It is how you came into being. Set a clear precedent. If you aren't comfortable doing something, then don't do it. If you let something slide even once, then it will be harder to stop it from happening in the future. Be firm about your expectations, and don't let anyone take advantage of you. Remember: Consent is crucial when it comes to sex. If you or your partner say no, their answer must be fully understood Ask about STI (sexually-transmitted infection) testing. Before you become intimate with a person, initiate a casual conversation about their sexual health and their testing history. Don't make a big deal about it—just ask if they've been tested recently. Remember that you have the right to look after your own sexual health. You deserve to know if you're about to have sex with someone who might be carrying an infection. Use protection. It never hurts to use a condom, even if a partner has assured you that he or she is STI-free. If you have an STI, be upfront about it. It can plague your partner for years, and it can have serious health implications. Be communicative. Ask for what you want. Be vocal about what you like, and don't be afraid to speak up when something doesn't work for you. If you aren't clear about your needs, then your partner won't know how to meet those needs. Be as frank and open as possible. Cultivate a relationship that is build around clear communication. The more you talk about this, the easier it will be! If you want more sex, don't be afraid to say so, but don't demand it. Explain why you don't feel that you're getting enough, and find a solution that the two of you can agree upon. Stay on the same page. Make sure that you and your partner have a mutual understanding about the rules and expectations of the relationship. A relationship is a mutual understanding, and it is your responsibility to maintain that understanding. Define the sort of relationship that you want, and make the relationship itself an act of discussing that balance. Talk about when and where it's okay to have sex. Preferences to change over time, which is fine, but you need to keep your partner up-to-date. Decide whether you are exclusive. If not, make sure that you agree about who each of you can and cannot have sex with. Be clear and be truthful. If you leave this part murky, then you could damage your relationship and seriously hurt someone. Make it a dialogue. Each of you should feel equally empowered to negotiate the terms of the conversation. Someone will probably need to initiate the conversation, and that person may well be you—but you can still create space for your partner to speak his or her mind. Listen. Be patient. Avoid accusatory "you" statements like, "You never want to have sex anymore!" Instead, focus on the way that things make you feel, or try to remain objective. Say, "I feel that our sex drives have been unbalanced lately," or "I want to open up a dialogue about the way that our sex life has been lately." Again: a relationship is a mutual understanding. A healthy sex life is built upon communication. Don't let one person make all of the moves! Consent is an important factor in order for both you and your partner to have a good time in bed. Talk about what you both want and not want during sex. And to then understand that persons boundaries. Talk about sex when you're not having sex. This can be a great way to get comfortable discussing intimacy with your partner. Bring it up when you both have free time to talk. Check in to see that you're on the same page, and that the current arrangement is working for both of you. Be unabashed and matter-of-fact about this sort of communication. If you don't act like it's weird, then it won't be weird. Know when it's time to talk to your child about sex. The "right time" means something different for every kid and every parent. As a general rule of thumb, consider that your child should probably know how to practice safe, consensual sex by the time that he or she winds up in a sexual situation. If your child is approaching his or her teen years, then hormones are coming, and the time is nigh. In this digital age, more children are learning about sex from the Internet. If your child gets curious, then they may do a lot of exploratory searching. Use your knowledge to act as a guiding figure. Your child may know more than you think. Many schools incorporate some form of sexual education into their curriculum. Try using this as a reason to engage with your kids about the realities of sex. Set yourself up as a resource, and offer to answer any questions that your children might have. Bring it up gently. Sex can be an embarrassing topic for adults to discuss—let alone children or teenagers! If the topic comes up naturally, then take the opportunity to discuss it. Otherwise: plan out what you are going to say, and try to build upon what your child already knows. Keep an open mind. Be respectful of boundaries. If your son or daughter doesn't want to talk about the "birds and the bees," then don't force the conversation. Use outside resources. There are various books, websites, and other resources available that make it easier for kids and teenagers to learn about healthy sex. If your child is younger than 10-12, consider going through these resources one-on-one. If you are dealing with a teenager, then you can likely just pass along the information and let your teen explore on his/her own time. What Makes A Baby by Cory Silverberg is a children's book for parents looking to explain to young children how babies are conceived and born. The website BishUK provides a range of topics for parents and teens. The site covers not only the physical aspects of sex, but its emotional impact. MTV, as an offshoot of their Teen Mom series, runs the website [mysexlife.org mysexlife.org]. The site helps teenagers understand sex and sexuality, and it can help teach young adults how to make safe decisions regarding their bodies. Speakeasy, a Family Planning Association, features online guides to help parents talk to kids about sex and reproduction. There are guides available for a variety of ages. | Be frank. Set a clear precedent. Ask about STI (sexually-transmitted infection) testing. Be communicative. Stay on the same page. Make it a dialogue. Talk about sex when you're not having sex. Know when it's time to talk to your child about sex. Bring it up gently. Use outside resources. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-Care-of-Plants | How to Take Care of Plants | To take care of indoor plants, make sure they're getting at least 4-6 hours of sunlight every day and avoid positioning them near air vents. Also, water the plants regularly and fertilize them every few weeks to keep them looking their best. For outdoor plants, keep the area around them free of weeds and add a layer of mulch every few months to keep the soil stays moist. Lastly, don't forget to remove dead or dying foliage regularly to keep your plants healthy and prevent the spread of disease! | Give your plants plenty of light. One of the primary concerns for house plants is making sure they get enough light. Keeping your plants on a side-table in your living room may look good, but if it is too far from a window, your plant may not last long. Look up the sun requirements for your specific plant, and move them to a location that matches those requirements. Keep in mind that windows facing the south side of your house will receive the most light, while windows facing the north side will receive the least amount of light. Basic sunshine guidelines are as follows: Plants that need 'full sunlight' should be placed somewhere that gets 4-6 hours of direct light per day. Plants that need 'partial sunlight' should be placed somewhere that gets 2-3 hours of direct light per day. Plants that need 'shade' should be placed somewhere that gets 1 hour of direct sunlight per day. Water your plants regularly. Getting the proper balance of water for houseplants can be tricky: too much water, and the roots will start to rot because of poor drainage, and too little water and they'll dry out. The specific amounts of water needed will vary from plant to plant, as some like to be very wet all the time while others (like cacti and succulents) only need watering once every few weeks. However, most plants will thrive when watered 2-3 times a week. Use a spray bottle or small watering can, and add enough water each time so that the soil is moist without being muddy. Stick your finger in the soil up to your 2nd knuckle to see how wet it is; if your finger comes back dry, you need to water your plant. If it is wet at all, then hold off on watering for a day or two more. Always use warm water for your plants, as cold water can shock the roots and cause damage to the plant. Give your plants a deep watering about once a month. Place them in the sink and let the water run through them. This will help keep salts from building up on the surface of the soil. Fertilize your plants every few weeks. Fertilizer is a soil additive that supplies plants with nutrients. It is particularly important to fertilize indoor plants every 2-3 weeks, because there is no organic matter being added to the soil naturally like there would be outdoors. Most fertilizers come with a 3-number series, such as 10-20-10; these numbers refer to the amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium the fertilizer contains. Because every kind of plant requires different amounts of those three minerals, the type of fertilizer you need to use will vary. However, starting with a 'middle ground' fertilizer such as a 6-12-6 or 10-10-10 mix should be good enough for most plants. Spray or sprinkle the fertilizer directly onto the top of the soil, according to the package directions. Liquid fertilizers can be mixed with water in your watering can. To apply, simply water your plants. You don't need to mix the fertilizer into the potted soil, as it will dissolve and incorporate into the mixture on its own over time. Clean dust off your plants. Indoor plants will become coated in a thin layer of dust over time. This dust takes away from the plants' natural beauty, and it also makes it harder for them to grow by clogging the 'pores' on the leaves. As a result, it is important to clean off any dust you notice on a regular basis. Depending on the size of your plant, there are two different general cleaning methods: wipe them off with a cloth, or rinse them in the sink under running water. If you choose to wipe down your plants, mix a small amount of warm water with a bit of dish soap or plant soap, and dip a clean rag into the mixture before carefully wiping down the leaves. If you run them under water, just turn on warm water in your sink and carefully rinse each leaf with your hands or a clean dish rag. Rinsing down your plant under running water works best for smaller plants. Make sure not to get too much water into the pot itself, though. There are brands of plant cleaning spray on the market that you can use to spray the dust off your plants. Move your plant away from air vents. Moisture levels inside of houses tends to be lower than moisture levels outside of houses. As a result, it is common for houseplants to become dried up due to a lack of humidity. Although regular watering can help prevent this, a bigger issue causing this is placing your indoor plants near air vents. Whether the heater or the air conditioner is the one working, the constant air flow will dry out the leaves of the plants and cause them to die off. To solve this problem, move them away from any vents in the room. You can also incorporate a humidifier into your décor nearby to add moisture to the air. Make sure your plants are getting enough water. Caring for plants in a garden relies heavily on the natural elements and environment in proximity. As a result, the amount of watering you need to do is dependent on what the weather and soil is like in your area. It's generally a good rule of thumb to water your plants 2-3 times a week either by hand with a watering can, or with a sprinkler system. The soil of your garden should be damp without being soggy, and not so dry that it is crumbly and dusty. Check the ideal watering amounts for each plant, as some varieties prefer lots of water while others require very little. Weed your garden regularly. Weeds can spring up overnight and ruin a perfectly lovely garden. Weeds aren't only an eyesore, they also take up valuable growing space and use nutrients in the soil that could otherwise go towards growing your garden. As a result, you should try to pull weeds whenever you see them pop up. Grasp each weed as close to the ground as you're able, and then pull it straight up. doing this will increase the likelihood of pulling out the root system and slowing the growth of future weeds. You can use weed killers in your garden, but most aren't plant-specific and will kill all surrounding plants (not just the weeds). Check for weeds growing underneath the canopy of a plant or bush. Mulch your garden every few months. Mulch is a type of organic compost that is added to the top of your garden soil to prevent weeds from growing and to trap moisture. Mulching will also add nutrients to the soil as it mixes in over time, helping your plants to grow even larger. You can purchase mulch at most garden supply stores. Simply add a layer of mulch 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) thick over the entirety of the topsoil in your garden. Be careful not to cover up the base of your plants with mulch, as this will inhibit their growth. This is especially important for small trees and bushes. You can add a layer of organic compost as a substitute for garden mulch, if you want. Keep in mind that compost will not prevent weeds like mulch will, although it is beneficial to your plant's growth. For permanent plantings, you can lay down landscape fabric over the soil to act as a weed barrier. Using this in combination with mulch will reduce weeds to almost nothing. Cut off any dead or diseased plants. Plant disease can spread quickly through a garden, if not contained. The same is true for a plant that is injured; if you don't remove the dying limbs, it can continue to spread to the rest of the plant. Whenever you notice plants that are browning, dry, brittle, or otherwise sickly looking, use a pair of gardening shears to cut off the branches from the base. Throw these branches away rather than leaving them in your garden as compost, because if they do contain a plant disease, it can still spread to nearby plants. Deadhead your flowers. The term 'deadhead' refers to the practice of cutting off the dead flower heads on a plant. This will stimulate new growth, and remove the brown and dying flower. To do this, simply use a pair of gardening shears to snip the flower just below the bud. Over the next few days, you should notice a new bud begin to form and bloom. To encourage the growth of leaves, cut flower buds before they bloom. This will conserve the plant's energy. This applies to most types of flowering plants, like marigold, celosia and zinnia. Fertilize your plants once a month. Outdoor plants get more nutrients from their surrounding environment than do indoor plants, meaning that they need to be fertilized much less. Find a fertilizer that meets your plants specific mineral requirements, or choose an 'average' fertilizer such as a 6-12-6 or 10-10-10 mixture from your local nursery. Spray or sprinkle the fertilizer onto the plants once every 4-5 weeks, according to package directions. Mix the fertilizer into the top few inches of soil. This can help reduce harmful runoff of fertilizers into waterways and other areas. If fertilizer is left on top of the soil, the nutrients will enter the air instead of the soil. Consider organic options for fertilizing. Most nutrition contained in chemical fertilizers is wasted because it is released faster than plants can use it. Furthermore, they only provide three nutrients. Mature organic compost or organic mixes provide more micronutrients. Organic compost will release these nutrients over a long period as plants need them. If you're unsure as to what fertilizer to use, ask your local nursery worker for help. Add drainage to poorly draining soil. If your garden patch or potted plant constantly has a pool of water sitting on top, then the soil is poorly draining. This is bad, because the buildup of water can cause the roots of the plant to rot, killing the plant over time. To remedy this, carefully dig out the plant and a clump of the surrounding soil; place the plant on a tarp or in another clean pot. Mix compost or peat into the soil. Replace your plant in its original location. If all of your soil is poorly draining, you can dig it up and mix in sand to help increase the drainage. Move plants that are placed too closely together. If you got a bit over-enthusiastic and planted several plants near each other when they were small, you may have been surprised when they grew up and began competing for space in your garden or indoor pot. Plants that are put too close together will not grow as large, since there are not enough nutrients to be shared between them. Simply dig up the offending plants, and relocate them to a new garden plot or pot that has more room. Fill in the empty space with fresh gardening soil. Always use store-bought gardening soil rather than soil from your yard, as the soil from your yard contains insects, plant diseases, and weeds that will spread to your plant in its new location. You can tell that plants are too close if they are growing into each other, or if their primary stems/branches become tangled. Avoid adding too much mulch. While mulching is beneficial for adding nutrients and blocking out weeds, adding too much mulch can be problematic for a garden. This is because the mulch will not only block out weeds, but will also prevent new growth from your plants from breaking the surface. Never add more than a 2-inch thick layer of mulch to your garden. If your garden isn't growing after you've mulched, take off 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) of mulch and wait a few weeks for improvement. If you add mulch too high on the base of a stem or tree, it will cut off valuable sunlight and prevent growth. Move mulch off the base of the stems and tree trunks in your garden. Cut off any dead or diseased plants. Plant disease can spread quickly through a garden, if not contained. The same is true for a plant that is injured; if you don't remove the dying limbs, it can continue to spread to the rest of the plant. Whenever you notice plants that are yellow, browning, dry, brittle, or otherwise sickly looking, use a pair of gardening shears to cut off the branches from the base. Throw these branches away rather than leaving them in your garden as compost, because if they do contain a plant disease, it can still spread to nearby plants. Avoid over-watering your plants. Although you may think you're watering your plants correctly, if they begin to turn yellow and droop, you're probably giving them too much water. Most plant's don't need to be watered daily, in fact they do better when given a lot of water every few days. Only water your plants when the soil is dry at least 2-inches deep. If you water every time the top of the soil looks dry, you are almost guaranteed to over-water your plant. If you are having difficulty giving too much water to indoor plants, try switching to a spray bottle for watering your plants, rather than using a watering can. Spray bottles make it much harder to add too much water, since very little is released at one time. Make sure you don't plant your plants too deeply. If your plants are slowly dying and wilting for no known reason, you may have buried them too deeply. The roots of the plant need to be relatively close to the surface, so that they can extract all the nutrients from the topsoil and have access to the sun. Carefully dig up your plants, and replant them so that the root ball is just-at or just-below the surface of the soil. If the root ball is partially exposed, spread a thin layer of mulch over the top to protect it. When transplanting a plant from a pot to the garden, keep the soil level at the same depth that it was in the original pot. If your roots are mostly above the surface, your plant will die as well. You want the roots to be level with the garden topsoil. | Give your plants plenty of light. Water your plants regularly. Fertilize your plants every few weeks. Clean dust off your plants. Move your plant away from air vents. Make sure your plants are getting enough water. Weed your garden regularly. Mulch your garden every few months. Cut off any dead or diseased plants. Deadhead your flowers. Fertilize your plants once a month. Add drainage to poorly draining soil. Move plants that are placed too closely together. Avoid adding too much mulch. Cut off any dead or diseased plants. Avoid over-watering your plants. Make sure you don't plant your plants too deeply. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-a-Grand-Jete | How to Do a Grand Jete | The grand jete is an advanced ballet move where you leap into the air and perform a split. You'll need to stretch regularly until you can comfortably do a split on the ground to pull this off. To do the move, start with your right foot flat and your left leg extended in front with your pointed toe touching the floor. Step forward with your right leg and raise it while pointing your toe. Then, push off your left leg and jump as high as you can. While you're in the air, extend your legs in a forward split and extend your arms at your sides too. Land on your right leg and bend your knee to absorb the impact. Keep your arms and left leg extended like they were in the air for a second. | Start stretching. Sit on the floor with both legs extended straight out in front of you. Lean forward and reach for your toes with your arms outstretched all the way. Stretch only until you feel a minor burn in your leg muscles, and then hold it for 30 seconds. If you are new to stretching, start slowly; take your time. Do this stretch every day. Stretch for the split. Kneel with both knees on the ground, but don't sit back. Extend your right leg forward until it is completely straight in front of you, with your heel on the ground. Lean down and place your fingers on the floor to either side of you. If this burns, hold this position. If not, scoot your heel forward until it does, and then hold. Repeat with the other leg. Perform this stretch every day until your legs are both flat on the floor and you are sitting comfortably. But please do not push yourself while doing the splits, as you may injure yourself. Allow yourself several weeks to reach a split. Go slowly and carefully to avoid a pulled muscle. Push your flexibility further. Go into a right split with your right leg forward and your left leg back. Place one pillow beneath your right foot. Once the burn fades away, place a second pillow underneath it and hold. Remove both pillows and repeat for your back foot. Switch legs and repeat. Strengthen your body. Lying on your back, bring your knees upward so that your feet rest flat on the floor. Make sure to keep your stomach tight whilst straightening your right leg so that it points upward. Breathe out as you use your left leg to push your hips upward until your body is straight. Inhale as you lower your hips almost to the floor, and breathe in again as you push up. Repeat this in repetition 30 times. If you can't manage 30 reps, set a smaller number and gradually build up over several days. Strengthen your glutes. Begin on all fours, keeping your hands centered under your shoulders and your knees beneath your hips. Tighten your stomach as you breathe in and bring your right knee to your chest. Breathe out, point your right toe, and push your right leg out behind you and as far up into the air as you can whilst also bringing your chest upward. Be sure you're using your glutes to achieve leg height. Do 30 reps and switch legs. Strengthen your jumping muscles. Start by jogging for around 15 paces, and then each time you take a stride, turn it into a leap. Focus on exploding of the ground as immediately and as far as possible on each jump. This is called bounding. Bound for around 30 yards (27.4 m), jog again, and then bound again. Three rounds of bounding is ideal. Decide which split you are doing. If you are working from a specific combination or choreography, are you doing a right split jump or a left split jump? If not, try a right split jump just to start with. Prepare your legs. For our right split jump, this means your right leg is supporting you, foot flat on the floor and toe pointed outward. Your left leg is extended in front, straight, with your pointed toe touching the floor. Step forward. Shift your weight onto your left leg keeping your knee bent outward, essentially forming a plie, while you shift your right foot along the floor to the front. Raise your right leg. Point your right toe as you bring your fully extended leg upward. Jump. Use your left leg to push as forcefully as possible off the floor. Push through your leg, the ball of your foot, and then even your toe to gain as much power as possible. Extend your legs. While you are in the air, fully stretch your legs out in front and back, attempting to achieve your hard-earned split in mid-air. Land. Bring your front (in this case, right) foot downward and land with your knee bent to absorb the shock. Keep your back leg and arms extended outward as they were in the jump. Finish. Bring your arms down as you pull your back leg down and through to point out in front as it did in the beginning. | Start stretching. Stretch for the split. Push your flexibility further. Strengthen your body. Strengthen your glutes. Strengthen your jumping muscles. Decide which split you are doing. Prepare your legs. Step forward. Raise your right leg. Jump. Extend your legs. Land. Finish. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Fish-Curry | How to Make Fish Curry | To make a quick and easy fish curry, start by heating oil in a large skillet and adding chopped onion and garlic. Once the onion is translucent, add the curry paste, diced tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Allow the sauce to simmer while you cut the fish into 2-inch chunks. Then, slowly incorporate the fish into the sauce. If you're using frozen fish, make sure to defrost it first. After all of the ingredients are mixed together, cover the skillet and allow the curry to cook for another 5 minutes or when the fish flakes easily with a fork. Serve your fish curry with rice or naan bread. | Sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat for 5 minutes. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium heat for 2 to 3 minutes. Then, add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pan. Stir the onion and garlic every 2 minutes while they cook. The onion will look translucent when it is done. Stir in the curry paste, tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Add 1 to 2 tbsp (15 to 30g) of curry paste, depending on how spicy you want your curry to be. Then, add a 14 oz (400 g) can of diced tomatoes with the juice and 7 fl oz (210 mL) of vegetable broth. Use a metal or wooden spoon to mix the ingredients together. If you do not have vegetable broth, use water and ½ tsp of salt. Cook the sauce on medium-high heat while you prepare the fish. This should only take about 5 minutes, but it is okay if it takes you a little longer. Just watch the sauce and stir it every few minutes. Turn the heat down to medium or low-medium if you need more than 10 minutes to prepare the fish. Cut the fish into 2 in (5.1 cm) chunks and add them to the sauce. Use a sharp knife and a cutting board to cut the fish. Large 2 in (5.1 cm) chunks will give the stew a hearty appearance and texture, but you may cut the pieces smaller if desired. You may use fresh or frozen fish, but make sure that the fish is defrosted before you add it to the sauce. Cover and cook the curry for 5 more minutes on medium-high heat. Use a wooden or metal spoon to stir the curry about once every 3 minutes and watch it closely. The curry is done when the fish flakes easily with a fork. Serve the curry with rice and naan bread, or enjoy it on its own! Marinate the fish fillets in mustard, oil, salt and pepper for 30 minutes. Stir to combine the 2 tsp (10 mL) of Dijon mustard, 1 tsp of black pepper, 1/2 tsp of salt, and 2 tbsp (30 mL) of canola oil in a large bowl. Then, place the fish fillets in the bowl and coat them with the mixture on all sides. Cover the bowl and put it in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. Set a timer to remind you when the fish has marinated for the full 30 minutes. Puree the onion, garlic, ginger, and cashews or coconut. Place the ingredients in a food processor. Blend the ingredients until they form a paste. Stop the machine and scrape down the sides with a spatula if the ingredients get stuck to the sides. You can also add 1 tbsp (15 mL) of water to get things moving if the ingredients are not blending well. Preheat your oven to 350 °F (177 °C). At this point, turn on your oven and set it to 350 °F (177 °C). This way it will be hot when you are ready to bake the fish curry. It will take about 10 to 15 minutes for your oven to reach this temperature. Sauté the paste in oil for about 2 minutes. Heat a large skillet with 1 tbsp (15 mL) of canola oil for about 2 minutes on medium-high heat. Add the paste to the skillet when it is hot and cook for about 2 minutes. Stir it a few times while it cooks. Be careful not to let the paste burn in the pan! Watch it closely and turn down the heat to medium if needed. Add the spices, salt, and sugar and cook for 5 more minutes. Measure and add 2 tsp (4.2 g) of cayenne pepper, 1/2 tsp (1 g) of ground turmeric, 1 tsp (2.1 g) of ground cumin, 1 tsp (2.1 g) of ground coriander, 1/2 tsp (1 g) of fennel seeds (optional), 1 tsp (5 g) of salt, and 1 tsp (5 g) of sugar to the pan. Stir the spices and sugar in with the paste and cook them for 5 more minutes. Use a metal or wooden spoon. Stir in the tomatoes and vegetable broth and turn off the heat. Next, pour 4 oz (110 g) of chopped tomato and 2 fl oz (59 mL) of vegetable broth into the pan. Stir to combine all of the ingredients. Then, turn off the heat. Don't worry that the sauce is not hot! It will heat up in the oven. Arrange the fish fillets in a baking dish and pour the sauce over them. Spray the dish with non-stick cooking spray to prevent the fish from sticking. Then, place the fillets into the dish so that they are spaced out evenly. Pour the sauce over the fish fillets. Use a spatula to scrape the pan if any of the sauce is stuck to it. Bake the fish uncovered at 350 °F (177 °C) for 30 minutes. The dish is done when the fish flakes easily with a fork. Set a timer for 30 minutes and place the dish on the center rack of your oven. Remove the dish from the oven when the time is up. Make sure to wear oven mitts when you remove the fish curry from the oven and place the dish on a potholder or trivet. Serve the curry with rice and naan bread. Let the curry rest for about 10 minutes before enjoying. Then, serve it over a bed of rice, with a slice of naan bread, or with both! | Sauté the onion and garlic over medium heat for 5 minutes. Stir in the curry paste, tomatoes, and vegetable broth. Cook the sauce on medium-high heat while you prepare the fish. Cut the fish into 2 in (5.1 cm) chunks and add them to the sauce. Cover and cook the curry for 5 more minutes on medium-high heat. Marinate the fish fillets in mustard, oil, salt and pepper for 30 minutes. Puree the onion, garlic, ginger, and cashews or coconut. Preheat your oven to 350 °F (177 °C). Sauté the paste in oil for about 2 minutes. Add the spices, salt, and sugar and cook for 5 more minutes. Stir in the tomatoes and vegetable broth and turn off the heat. Arrange the fish fillets in a baking dish and pour the sauce over them. Bake the fish uncovered at 350 °F (177 °C) for 30 minutes. Serve the curry with rice and naan bread. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Install-Asphalt-Shingles | How to Install Asphalt Shingles | To install asphalt shingles, start by installing underlayment and new flashing on the roof. Once you've done that, cut your shingles to size if they're not already. Then, begin nailing the shingles to the roof, working in rows and starting at the edge of the roof. Install the shingles so that each one is overlapping the shingle directly below it, which will conceal the nails. When you reach the end of a row, cut the last shingle to size before installing it. | Get the right number of shingles for the job. It generally takes three bundles of shingles to cover 100 square feet (9.29 square meters). Asphalt shingle "bundles" are actually sealed in packages (the term bundle comes from wooden shingles which actually came tied up with wire in bundles). Measure your roof and buy appropriately. Measure the length and width of the individual sections of the roof, multiplying them together to determine the area. Add the areas of each section together, then divide by 100 to get the correct number of squares. Multiply this number by 3 to get the number of bundles you'll need to buy. Measure the length of a shingle as it lies across the roof. This will help determine how the shingles will lay on the roof width. Most asphalt shingles are 3 feet (91.4 centimeters) in length. If your roof's width is not an even multiple of the shingle's length, you will have a partial piece on one end of each row. The bottom row of shingles must hang past the edge of the roof. For a wood shingle roof you would have to cut the shingles that go on the edge to create a straight line to accommodate this. Remove old shingles and flashing. Start removing the shingles at the peak farthest from the trash container, or the corner you want to collect the shingles in. Use a garden fork or a roofing shovel to pull them off quickly, use the hammer-method and go by hand for a more thorough job. Make sure that you protect the sides of the house and the windows during this process, such as by leaning a large piece of plywood against the house below where you are working. Otherwise you might break a window or damage the siding. Pry up the nails and loosening the ridge caps. It's ok if you don't get all the nails at first, because you'll have a chance to go back through and remove them later. Remove the metal flashing around chimneys, vents, and valleys in the roof. Flashing in the valleys will almost always be trashed, especially. Some roofers will keep some of the flashing that's in good shape, but it's probably worth junking it all when you've got the chance. Clean the roof. Sweep the roof as clean as possible. Remove nails that didn't come up earlier. Reattach loose boards in the sheathing. Examine the sheathing for damage and rotted boards, replacing the damaged sections. Install underlayment and new flashing. Lay asphalt, felt-paper, or special waterproof underlayment, such as a self healing membrane, over the roof. Some roofers will use 15-pound (6.8 kg) roofing paper, which is an effective method, although the best method is a self sealing membrane with a rain screen. Staple this felt down, starting at the lowest point of your roof and working upward. Overlap each row at least 3 inches. Use plenty of staples and work carefully to avoid tearing the paper. Be generous with the staples while attaching the paper to the roof deck. Use "tin caps" under staples, if the roof may be exposed to wind before shingles are to be applied. Use sticky back ice and water shield as underlayment where ice dams or leaf and twig dams are likely to build up, and at valleys and where the roof ends at a wall (wide metal flashing may also be used there). Install new flashing. Nail metal flashing called "drip edge" along the bottom edge of the roof deck near the gutters. You will also need rake edge flashing for the sides of the roof. Make sure to install flashing around the chimneys and walls. These types of flashing are known as step flashing and turn back flashing. Choose the kind of starter course you will use. You can use narrow tab-less starter shingles if you bought some (GAF Pro-Start is one such brand), or will be cutting your own starter shingles to fit the particular project. Some people like to only have to buy one variety of shingle and cut them to fit, while others prefer the ease of the pre-cut starter shingles without tabs. Use chalk lines to make a guide for yourself. Depending on the type of shingles you're using and the roof you're working on, you may need to marking a chalk guideline beginning 7 inches (17.8cm) from the bottom roof edge. In either case the glue strip of the starter course is then placed along the drip edge, and at the rake edges as well. Mark from the left to right edge of the roof so the chalk line will be seen immediately above each course as a guideline. Continue to chalk additional guidelines based on the width of the shingle through at least four courses (rows) across the roof. When you are laying felt paper, make sure that the lines on the paper are running in a square pattern. Cut your starter-course shingles if necessary. If you are making your own starter shingles, cut the tabs off for the "starter course" (bottom row) of shingles. To prepare the tabs and lay the starter course, shorten the first starter shingle by 6 inches (or about a half of one tab). Place the glue strip at and all along the drip edge, and the rake edges as well. You will shingle over this starter course, so the bottom course will be double thickness. Instead of cutting off all three tabs, you can also reverse the shingles for a starter course, so that the entire shingle with tabs turned upward are under your first course of shingles. With either method, putting the solid edge at the drip edge and cutting 6 inches off the length of first starter shingle prevents the slots between the tabs from lining up with the first regular course laid over the starter, thus not to expose the asphalt roofing paper through the slots of that bottom row. Nail the shingles with no tabs, such as precut Pro-Start shingles, and apply asphalt cement from a caulk gun in many dots along the drip edge under the edge, then press the tab-less shingles down onto the line of asphalt cement dots with adequate spaces between the dots. A continuous bead of asphalt could trap condensation or windblown water under the roofing at some point. Cut five different lengths for staggering slots. To make sure you've got the right sizes to lay courses correctly, cut several sizes of shingles from the three-tab variety you purchased. Cut off one-half tab-width of the first tab to start the first course. Each cut is needed to shift the slots of the shingles on the course of shingles a 1/2 tab from aligning with the slots in shingles above and below. Keep all scrap, especially any single tabs for use on the ridge cap shingles. Make the following cuts: Cut a half tab off for your first course shingles, Cut off a full tab for your second course shingles Cut one and a half tabs off of your third course shingles, Cut two tabs off your fourth course shingles For your fifth course, cut off half of the final tab Keep your sixth course tabs intact Start laying courses. Nail the "cut off shingle" into place, about 6 inches from its lower edge. Hammer in one nail about 2 inches from each end of each shingle and another nail about 1 inch above each cutout. Make sure to keep nails out of the tar strip as you work. The next shingles above should cover the nails by about 1 inch vertically. Horizontally, end nails will be covered by up to about 1/2 of a tab, of the shingle(s) above. Be sure that these nails will hold the top edge of the course of shingles immediately below. Butt a full shingle up against the cut shingle and nail into place. Repeat this basic pattern, alternating shingles across the roof, working toward the right side, using the chalk line to keep the shingles straight horizontally. Use 4 nails per shingle and 6 nails on the prevailing windward sides of the roof, as wind resistance nailing. Some local codes require the 6 nails on all sides. Cut the last shingle to the size you need when you reach the end of the row. You can let the excess extend off the side end of the roof and trim it down after it is nailed on, if you like. Continue this process to the 5th row, then begin the same process as the first row beginning with a full shingle, and a chalk mark. Repeat all of the way to the ridge. If it is a hip roof, allow about a tab width to overhang onto the next section of roof at the hip to help strengthen the joint there. Install the last course. Bend the last course of shingles over the ridge, up to about 6 inches, and nail it onto the other side so that the roofing extends over the top of the ridge, where nails will be covered, leaving no exposed nails. However, do not do this if a ridge vent system is being installed as well. Nearly all modern roofs use ridge venting – the sheeting stops short on each side. End your final shingle row here, using the hook-blade for cutting. To cover the ridge, install vented cap shingles or continuous ridge vent. Bend single tabs (or special ridge shingles) over the ridge, beginning at the end putting a bead of asphalt under the first ridge shingle to hold down the tab. Nail it where the next ridge shingle will cover the nails about an inch horizontally and vertically. Install the ridge shingles. With the asphalt granules exposed, across to the other end, nail the shingles on both sides of the ridge as before. Cut off the asphalt nail line from a ridge shingle when you get to the other end. Apply a heavy bead of asphalt cement. Dot the cement under and around the edge of the last ridge shingle where you removed the nail line. Nail at the four corners to the end of the ridge, and always add a little dab of tar to cover the nail heads. Also apply asphalt cement over the nail heads exposed on the last ridge shingle to prevent water leaks. | Get the right number of shingles for the job. Measure the length of a shingle as it lies across the roof. Remove old shingles and flashing. Clean the roof. Install underlayment and new flashing. Choose the kind of starter course you will use. Use chalk lines to make a guide for yourself. Cut your starter-course shingles if necessary. Cut five different lengths for staggering slots. Start laying courses. Butt a full shingle up against the cut shingle and nail into place. Cut the last shingle to the size you need when you reach the end of the row. Install the last course. Install the ridge shingles. Apply a heavy bead of asphalt cement. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Lead-a-Healthy-Life | How to Lead a Healthy Life | To lead a healthy life, get into the habit of cooking nutritious meals at home instead of eating out frequently. Try to work exercise or some form of physical activity into each day, whether that's jogging, gardening, or birdwatching. Brush and floss twice per day to keep your teeth and gums healthy and schedule regular dental cleanings and exams. It's also important to build happiness and self-acceptance by treating yourself lovingly and speaking to yourself the way you would speak to a dear friend. | Eat food. Everyone's ideal diet is different, yet we all need to cover the same bases. Eat fruits and vegetables, whole grains, dairy, protein, and healthy fats. Talk to your physician about your needs: if you have a medical condition, you may need to be more careful about what you eat. Eat at least three meals a day with healthy snacks in between. Pay attention to your portion size and serving sizes of different foods to make sure that you're not overeating. It is unhealthy to overeat, even if it is with healthy foods. Avoid processed food and fast food. Eat foods made from fresh and simple ingredients whenever you can. Eat a variety of whole foods. Eat beans, nuts, salads, and fermented foods like yogurt. Forget vitamins and supplements unless a doctor recommends them so you can be sure they're effective and safe for you. If you eat a variety of foods, including plenty of fruits and vegetables, you'll get the nutrients you need. Get in the habit of eating when you're hungry and stopping when you're full. Pay attention to your food while you eat so that you notice your level of hunger decreasing. If you think about food all the time, if you eat when you're not hungry, or if you avoid eating at all, you might have an eating disorder. Consult your physician. Drink fluids. Drink water, some juices, broth, milk, and other liquids throughout the day. Drink at least 2 liters, or about 8 glasses of 8 oz of liquid a day to make sure you're well-hydrated. Eating juicy vegetables and fruits will also hydrate you. Try to avoid soda and other artificially sweetened drinks. Sugar is bad for your metabolism, your teeth, and your immune system. Exercise. Make sure you move every day. It will boost your mood, your energy, and your health. If you're an adult, aim for about 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity a week. Activity that counts as vigorous is when you maintain 70-85% of your maximum heart rate for the entire period of exercise. It's better to exercise more frequently than to get all your working out in one day, so do something daily if you can. You don't have to join a gym to exercise. You can take brisk walks, go on runs, swim, or join a dance troupe. Sleep. Sleep has everything to do with health. To maintain your immune resistance, your weight, and your mental health, keep a regular sleep schedule. If you're an adult, go for 7-8 hours of uninterrupted sleep a night. Try to wind down naturally around the same time every evening so you're your body knows it's time to relax. Teenagers may need closer to 10 hours of sleep a night. Older adults still need 7-8 hours of sleep, but may also need to nap more and spend more time in bed. Relax. Taking time off from work and other stressors is essential to your health. Engage in the hobbies that relax you, get out of the house and walk in nature, hang out with friends, and learn some relaxation techniques that you can do in rough moments. Chronic stress can lead to heart disease, headaches, digestive issues, memory issues, weight gain, and mental illness. Even if you don't work, it's important to take vacations from your everyday routine. Take many vacations and weekend trips in which you focus on relaxing. Try to keep your evenings free. Take quick naps and short breaks during your workday. Meditate. If you are a trauma survivor, stress might hit you especially hard. A mental health counselor can make a great difference during times of stress. Cook at home. Cooking at home is cheaper and healthier than eating out, so teach yourself to cook the things you love, and keep a well-stocked fridge. Shop healthily. Plan out your meals for the week, and go to the grocery store with a list. Start in the produce aisles, and skip the chips and snack aisles. If your time is limited during the week, try cooking a lot of food at once during the weekends. Stews, grain salads, casseroles and roasts keep well in the fridge. Cook food you like, or you won't want to eat it. To guarantee weekly vegetables, order a CSA from a local farm if you can afford one. In some areas you can use SNAP, or food stamps, at your local farmer's market. They're worth twice as much that way, so check to see if you can. Cultivate active habits. If you have trouble getting to the gym on a regular basis, build more activity into your daily routine. Take up gardening or another active hobby. Get a dog so that you remember to go on walks. Cut your commute and walk part of the way to work, or get in the habit of patronizing nearby businesses so you can walk there and back. Through repetition and consistency, you can build a new exercise habit that can help you lead a healthier life. See if you can bike part of your commute instead of walking it. Take the stairs, not the elevator. Cultivate the habit of taking an after-dinner stroll in a nearby park. Try any hobby that gets you out of the house and moving around, like birdwatching or geocaching. Brush and floss. Dental hygiene affects your heart health as well as your gums and teeth. Brush twice a day and floss daily. Consider adding in a mouthwash containing fluoride. Schedule regular dental cleanings and exams, and don't hesitate to make an appointment if you have gum bleeding, misaligned teeth, or sensitivity. If you're having trouble swallowing, you should see a doctor immediately. Wear sunscreen. Sunscreen protects you from cancer and helps your skin age more slowly. Wear sunscreen when you go outside, but also when you sit by a window. Wear broad-spectrum sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher. Apply 15 minutes before sun exposure, and reapply every two hours. Keep an eye on your skin. If you have moles, check them regularly to see if they have grown into irregular shapes or colorations, or if they are increasing in size. Socialize. Having a healthy social network is good for your longevity, your recovery from illnesses you contract, and your mental stability. See friends regularly. Keep in touch with family. To expand your social contacts, join a religious congregation, activist collective, artistic cooperative, or other organization. Get involved in the organization, and stick with it. Get to know your neighbors. You don't need to make best friends with everyone on your block, but getting to the point where you can have a friendly chat when you see each other is a good idea. Volunteer to help out people in your life when they are in need, and ask for help when you need it. If you're single, consider dating. If you're happily coupled, consider moving in with your partner. Romantic companionship is one of the biggest factors in health and happiness. Send notes of appreciation to tell the people you love what you love about them. Build happiness and self-acceptance. There is a strong link between happiness and health, so try to get in the habit of treating yourself lovingly. Speak to yourself the way you would speak to a dear friend. When you start having negative spirals of thought, pause, and identify the thought that is making you feel bad. Accept the bad feeling and don't try to control it. Instead, calm yourself until you can analyze the logic behind your bad feeling. Affirm your positive feelings. Good feelings help you survive trauma and illness. When you have a positive feeling, pause and enjoy it. If you have a positive thought, say it out loud: "I love this park" or "I did a great job handling my stress today." Limit your exposure to toxins. You can keep yourself healthier by reducing your interaction with the chemicals in your environment. Don't smoke. Cigarettes are toxic. Avoid products that contain chemicals. Mop, don't sweep. Dust is full of toxins, so you don't want to stir it up into the air. Use a wet rag to wipe down surfaces, and mop the floors regularly. You can also vacuum. Don't use pesticides or buy spray. Keep these chemicals out of your home. You can avoid bugs by keeping your house clean. Handwash your dry-cleaning. Professional dry-cleaners use perchloroethylene, which can cause health problems when you are exposed to it for a long time. Clean your clothes with water instead, or find a dry cleaner who will agree to wet-clean your clothing. Check the air quality forecast. Try to get your outdoors time in on days with higher air quality, and go further away from factories and traffic when you exercise. See your doctor regularly. Enlist the help of an expert to aid you in your healthy life. Get your annual check-up, and go in whenever you think something might be wrong. Doctors are there to educate you as well as diagnose you, so going in to the doctor when healthy is never a waste of time. In fact, a regular check-up makes it much more likely that your doctor will spot a potentially serious illness or condition early, which can help them treat it more effectively. Make sure you have insurance that gives you the coverage you need. For instance, if you're likely to conceive a child within the next few years, make sure your insurance covers maternity care and childbirth services. Ask your doctor if you are taking care of yourself correctly. Your doctor may have thoughts about your diet and exercise that Look out for signs and symptoms. Screen yourself for any diseases or conditions you might be prone to. If an illness runs in your family, monitor for it. If you are experiencing pain or discomfort, or if you notice your skin or any other body part changing in a way that cannot be attributed to ordinary aging, see a doctor. Minor symptoms that persist for longer than a week, such as coughing, should also prompt a visit to a health professional. If you're unsure about a symptom, call the doctor's office and ask to speak to a nurse or a nurse practitioner. Many minor problems can be diagnosed over the phone. Immediately call 911 if you are having an emergency. Emergencies include difficulty breathing, chest pain, bad abdominal pain, bleeding, head trauma, or loss of consciousness. #Speak to a mental health counselor. Having an active social life can help you keep yourself balanced and happy, but it's not always enough. If you have been feeling unusual in any way, consider seeing a therapist. If you worry, feel sad, feel helpless, or are having trouble doing the ordinary activities of your life, see a doctor or a therapist. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Cope-when-No-One-Cares-About-You-Step-13-Version-2.jpg\/v4-460px-Cope-when-No-One-Cares-About-You-Step-13-Version-2.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/3\/33\/Cope-when-No-One-Cares-About-You-Step-13-Version-2.jpg\/aid1703046-v4-728px-Cope-when-No-One-Cares-About-You-Step-13-Version-2.jpg","smallWidth":460,"smallHeight":345,"bigWidth":"728","bigHeight":"546","licensing":"<div class=\"mw-parser-output\"><p>License: <a target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noreferrer noopener\" class=\"external text\" href=\"https:\/\/creativecommons.org\/licenses\/by-nc-sa\/3.0\/\">Creative Commons<\/a><br>\n<\/p><p><br \/>\n<\/p><\/div>"} If you feel disconnected from the things that sometimes bring you pleasure, you might be depressed. If you are experiencing many intense emotions, something else might need attention. Even if you don't think anything is wrong, problems at work, at home, or concerns from your friends might be signs that something is. If you are eating, drinking, or using drugs to cope, you may benefit from professional help. Contact a professional even if you are thinking about using a substance to help with your emotions. | Eat food. Drink fluids. Exercise. Sleep. Relax. Cook at home. Cultivate active habits. Brush and floss. Wear sunscreen. Socialize. Build happiness and self-acceptance. Limit your exposure to toxins. See your doctor regularly. Look out for signs and symptoms. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-LEGOs | How to Clean LEGOs | To clean LEGOs by hand, separate water-sensitive pieces, such as parts with stickers, printed patterns, or multiple pieces that can't be taken apart. Then, use a dry towel or toothbrush to scrub these pieces clean. Next, take apart pieces that aren't water sensitive, and soak them in a container filled with lukewarm water and a little dish soap. If any of the pieces have a bad odor or need to be sanitized, add white vinegar to the water. Once clean, rinse the LEGOs in cool water and dry them on a towel. | Use this method to minimize damage. This method is more time-consuming than others, unless the LEGO only has minor dust and dirt. Use this for your favorite or most collectible LEGO, to keep them safe from accidental damage. Scrub water-sensitive parts with a dry towel or toothbrush. Set aside any pieces with stickers or printed patterns, as well as any multi-part units that are not meant to be separated, such as turntables. Scrub these with a dry towel, or remove serious grime using a new toothbrush. Delicate electrical parts can be cleaned using alcohol wipes instead. Separate all remaining pieces. Detach all non-water-sensitive parts from each other, unless they are stuck. Make sure to pull apart multi-piece units such as tires. If you have a large collection, divide them into containers of about 200 or 300 each. Agitate in soapy water. Place the separated LEGO bricks in a container. Add lukewarm water and a little dish soap or other mild detergent. Agitate the bricks gently, stirring them around with your hand. Never use a cleaning product that contains bleach. Never use water above 104ºF (40ºC). Add vinegar (optional). If the bricks smell bad or if you would like to sanitize them, add white vinegar to the water. Use approximately ¼ to ½ as much vinegar as you did water. Let the pieces soak. Leave them to soak for at least ten minutes, then check up on them. If the water is extremely murky, replace it with fresh soapy water and leave to soak for a full hour, or overnight if convenient. Scrub the pieces if necessary. If there is still stuck-on grime, you may need to scrub it off using a new toothbrush, or a toothpick to reach crevices. Clear plastic pieces such as windshields are easily scratched. Rub them with your finger instead. Rinse the pieces. Transfer the LEGO bricks to a strainer or colander and rinse them in cold water to remove the soap and loosened grime. Dry the bricks. Optionally, spin the bricks in a salad spinner to remove some of the water. Next, place the wet bricks in a single layer on a towel, right-side up so water drains from the underside. To speed up the drying process, leave a fan on blowing over the bricks. Do not use a hair dryer, which can damage the bricks. Follow these instructions at your own risk. LEGO customer service warns against using washing machines due to the risk of damage from heat or tumbling.> Many LEGO bricks have emerged from the machine unharmed, but that is not necessarily true for your bricks and your washing machine. Separate the pieces. Detach all pieces from each other unless they are stuck by grime. Set aside all pieces with stickers, printed ink, moving parts, electrical parts, or clear plastic. These must be scrubbed with a dry towel or alcohol wipes to avoid damage from the tumbling. Put the pieces in a laundry bag or pillowcase. A fine mesh clothes bag will prevent the bricks from jamming the machine, and minimize damage to the bricks from tumbling, although scratching is still possible. You may use a pillowcase if you do not have a laundry bag, but make sure to close it tightly with a zipper or a rubber band. Set the machine to gentle, cold wash. Use the gentlest setting on your washing machine, and cold water only. Any temperature above 104ºF (40ºC) has the potential to melt LEGO bricks. Add mild detergent. Mild laundry detergent is recommended to avoid scratching. Read the labels on eco-friendly detergent if you're having trouble finding one marked mild. Let the pieces air dry. Lay the pieces out on a towel on their sides or base so water can drain. Keep in a ventilated room to speed up the drying, but keep them away from heat. They may take one or two days to fully dry, depending on humidity. Wash the bricks first. This method will reverse the discoloration that occurs due to sun exposure, but it does not remove grime. Follow one of the methods above first to get your bricks clean before you attempt this. You do not need to dry your bricks before following these instructions. Put the bricks in a transparent container. Sun exposure is an important part of this method, so use a glass or plastic container. Place it in an area with plenty of sun, but keep it away from children and pets, as non-edible materials will be used. Because the hydrogen peroxide reacts with ultraviolet light, only sunlight or a UV lamp will work. Do not use this method for parts with stickers and electrical parts. Cover the bricks with hydrogen peroxide. Use the standard 3% hydrogen peroxide solution, available in drug stores. You'll need enough to cover your discolored bricks. Although 3% hydrogen peroxide is safe for skin contact, wear gloves and safety goggles to minimize exposure, and keep away from mouths and hair. Children should have an adult handle this for them. Weigh down large, floating pieces. Some of your LEGO pieces may float in the hydrogen peroxide. Use any heavy object to weigh down the largest pieces. Stir the pieces around once an hour. Stirring the small pieces around with a stick or gloved hand will dislodge the bubbles causing them to float. Try this every hour or so for best results. If you leave pieces floating too long, they can develop a cloudy white marking along the water line. If no bubbles form on the pieces after an hour, the hydrogen peroxide has broken down into mostly water. Dispose of the liquid down the drain and try again with a new bottle. Rinse and dry bricks once color is restored. This typically takes about four to six hours. This time varies depending on the strength of the sunlight and the age of the hydrogen peroxide. Once done, transfer the bricks to a colander, rinse them, and air dry. | Use this method to minimize damage. Scrub water-sensitive parts with a dry towel or toothbrush. Separate all remaining pieces. Agitate in soapy water. Add vinegar (optional). Let the pieces soak. Scrub the pieces if necessary. Rinse the pieces. Dry the bricks. Follow these instructions at your own risk. Separate the pieces. Put the pieces in a laundry bag or pillowcase. Set the machine to gentle, cold wash. Add mild detergent. Let the pieces air dry. Wash the bricks first. Put the bricks in a transparent container. Cover the bricks with hydrogen peroxide. Weigh down large, floating pieces. Stir the pieces around once an hour. Rinse and dry bricks once color is restored. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Good-Teacher | How to Be a Good Teacher | To be a good teacher, create a healthy and supportive classroom environment. You can do this by asking your students open-ended questions like "Can you tell me why you feel that way?" to show that you value and respect their opinions. Then, show that you're listening to them by nodding, maintaining eye contact, and not interrupting when they speak. When you're an active listener to your students, they're more likely to give you respect as a teacher in return. Additionally, practice fairness by making sure your classroom rules are clear, consistent, and apply to all of your students. | Create a daily objective for your students. This is your way of providing a roadmap for your students, it shows them that you've put thought into the day's work and you know where it is heading. It's best if the objectives are clear, brief, and realistic. As each objective is completed, remind your students of what they've accomplished together. For example, in a high school literature class, an objective might be to complete a close reading of a particular poem by the end of the period. Some teachers find it helpful to post that day's objectives on the board. It's okay if not every objective is met every day. In some cases it's better to follow the flow of a particular conversation, instead of railroading back to the original subject matter. Listen to your students. Ask them open-ended questions after they've made a statement. Encourage them to ask you questions as well. Show that you are listening to them by nodding your head or gesturing for them to continue. Give them eye contact while they are speaking and try your best not to interrupt, unless you must redirect the conversation. Being an active listener shows your students that you respect their voice in the classroom. They will be more likely to give you respect as a teacher in return. It's also a good idea to model for your students how to respectfully listen to someone while disagreeing with them. You might say, “I'm not sure I agree with what you are saying, can you tell me more? Or, does anyone else want to jump in?” Keep students on task. Set time limits for classroom exercises or activities. In discussions, use your responses to their remarks as a classroom management tool. For example, you might say, “I really like what you are saying. How do you think it connects with objective number five?” Push your students to succeed. Try to create an environment in which your students will be constantly intellectually challenged. Let them know that it is okay to fail on occasion. You want to strike a balance between setting too high of goals for them and being a push-over. Use your students' progress to guide your way. They should be steadily improving, but not without considerable effort. For example, you might give a short, advanced-level reading assignment to high school students and ask them to use a dictionary to look up unfamiliar words. If used sparingly, this is a great way to challenge students to expand their vocabulary. Discipline in a prompt and thoughtful way. Make the rules for your classroom and each exercise very clear and consistent. If a student breaks a rule, handle it immediately in the classroom before moving forward. However, once you've made a disciplinary action, don't dwell on it or you could create additional problems. Also, make sure that any consequences that you assign match the level of the offense committed. For example, if a student accidentally disrupts a designated “quiet period” this can generally be corrected with a simple verbal warning for a first offense. You can also ask the student to stay after class and speak with you. This is one way to issue a consequence without disrupting your classroom. Assign leadership roles to difficult students. Some students create problems in a classroom due to sheer boredom or feeling disconnected with the subject or their teacher. Start with giving a challenging student small, personal tasks to complete. Then, over time, give them more difficult and public responsibilities. For example, you might ask a student to serve as a time-keeper for an in-class exercise. Be aware that this is an option that won't work for every challenging student. If they don't do well at the simple tasks, don't give them more advanced ones. Express a personal interest in all students. If you show your students that you enjoy their company and value their opinions, then they are far less likely to exhibit challenging classroom behaviors. Make a point of asking your students about their daily lives and personal interests. While staying professional, tell your students information about you in return. For example, you might talk with your students about where they are going for an upcoming break. Stay calm when addressing argumentative students. It's really easy to lose your cool when faced with a challenging or critical student. Instead, take a deep breath and try to look at their perspective. Ask them to explain their position in further detail. Encourage other students to enter into the discussion. Give quiet students many avenues of participation. There are many possible reasons why a student might remain silent in your classroom. Encourage them to learn by creating a safe environment for all opinions. Offer a variety of assignment options, including journal submissions or email logs. Avoid putting a spotlight on quiet students, unless that fits your overall teaching style. Offer assistance to struggling students. Do your best to identify students who are struggling academically early on. Consider offering in-class resources, such as pair exercises. Or, direct them to external resources, such as subject tutoring. Be a professional at all times. Dress appropriately for your teaching environment. Keep your teaching materials and classroom organized. Spend time preparing for each day of teaching. Show respect when talking with your colleagues and administrators. Think about what it means to be a professional teacher and try to live up to that model. It sometimes helps to think about one of your past teachers who you would describe as a true professional. Try to think about how you could in some ways mimic their behaviors in your own classroom and career. Laugh and keep your sense of humor. Try to teach your students that learning doesn't have to be serious 24/7. If you do something that is funny or goofy, then laugh at yourself. Being a bit self-deprecating will make your students more comfortable with you. If you incorporate humor or jokes into your lesson plans, then your students will likely remember the material better as well. Repeat positive mantras on bad days. Not every teaching day will go perfectly and some might even fall into the category of disaster. However, it's important to stay positive or your students will pick up and reflect your negative energy. Take a moment to tell yourself, “It's going to be okay,” or, “Tomorrow is a new day.” Put a smile on your face and keep going. You might even say out loud, “I love teaching because…” and list off a few reasons. For example, think about a moment when you saw real improvement in a student's life due to your efforts. If it's been a bad day for the students, too, then you might even say that you want to do a “re-set.” Tell them that you want to formally start the day over from that point forward. Create good relationships with the parents of students. Communication is key when working with parents. Keep in touch with them via in-person conferences as well as written behavioral reports. Let them know that you are interested in their ideas and perspectives on teaching. You can also solicit their help for events and celebrations in your classroom. Make contact with the Parent Teacher Association (PTA) at your school and ask what you can do to help. Seek out teaching mentors. Look for other teachers at your school who are willing to discuss teaching with you or who will even let you sit in on their classes. If they are interested, invite them to your classroom as well. After they've seen you teach, ask them to provide you with constructive criticism. See if they have suggestions for how you can be an even better teacher. For example, they might suggest that you state your classroom objectives more clearly. Then, you can talk about how you'd go about doing this. It's also a good idea to exchange teaching materials with your mentors and colleagues. Show them the format that you use for quizzes or tests and ask to see their versions. You don't have to teach the same subject to benefit from talking about teaching. You can also find mentors via teaching organizations or even at conferences. Stay in touch with the people that you meet and seek out their advice when you need it. Take time to reflect. At the end of each semester or teaching period, sit down and evaluate what worked well and what didn't. Be honest with yourself and realistically assess what is in your power to change before teaching that particular class again. If you're preparing for a certain course that always causes problems, you might consider reaching out to your mentor for advice. For example, you might find that your students react better to projects using media. If that's the case, think about how you can incorporate more media-driven activities in your classroom. Take advantage of professional development opportunities. Go to teaching conferences in your area and meet other education professionals. Write articles about teaching and publish them in local magazines or newspapers. Serve as a grader for exams in your area, such as the Advanced Placements tests. Keep learning and you'll be a model for your students, too. | Create a daily objective for your students. Listen to your students. Keep students on task. Push your students to succeed. Discipline in a prompt and thoughtful way. Assign leadership roles to difficult students. Express a personal interest in all students. Stay calm when addressing argumentative students. Give quiet students many avenues of participation. Offer assistance to struggling students. Be a professional at all times. Laugh and keep your sense of humor. Repeat positive mantras on bad days. Create good relationships with the parents of students. Seek out teaching mentors. Take time to reflect. Take advantage of professional development opportunities. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Send-Money-Online | How to Send Money Online | To send money online using PayPal, start by signing up for an account on the PayPal website, then clicking on the “Send Payment” tab of the account summary page. Next, fill in the e-mail of the person you're sending money to, the amount, and the reason you're sending it. Then, choose whether to pay with a bank account or a credit card, keeping in mind that there is a small fee if you use a credit card. Finally, click “Send Money Now” to send a notification to the other person asking them to accept the payment. | Decide if PayPal meets your needs. PayPal is one of the oldest online payment platforms, and has ties to many online vendors. You can use it to send money to friends and family, businesses, and online merchants. You can use your bank accounts or PayPal balance for free, or your PayPal Credit (for a 2.9% +.30 fee) PayPal also offers a mobile application for sending and receiving money. Payment recipients must have a PayPal account or must create one in order to receive funds. Sign up for PayPal online. Visit the PayPal web site and simply click the “Sign up” button to get started. Enter your email and password, then your full legal name and address. Read the user Agreement, Privacy Policy, and Electronic Communications Delivery Policy. You may also download the mobile app and then create your account. Confirm your identity by registering a bank account or credit card. It can take up to a few days for PayPal to confirm this information. They will send two small payments to your bank account, then retrieve them via EFT This confirmation process may take up to three days, so plan ahead. Send money using your PayPal account. Log into your PayPal account. Click the "Pay or send money" button at the top right of your account summary page. Click “Send Money to Friends or Family. ” This option is free , if you're using your PayPal balance or bank account. Paying for “Goods or services” is free for you, but will charge the recipient 2.9% +.30. Most personal transactions will be to friends or family. Be aware of potential tax liability for the recipient if you're paying for services. Enter your recipient’s email address, phone number, or name. If you've sent money to this person before, you can simply type his or her name and select them from the list. Enter the amount you’re sending. Click “Continue” to add a note about the purpose of the transaction. The note is optional, but it will help you keep accurate records of your expenses. Decide on your method of payment. Beneath “You're sending with,” you'll see one of your accounts listed. You can click this account name and change it to any other linked accounts, but make sure you have the funds to make the payment. Using your PayPal balance or linked bank accounts is free Using PayPal credit charges a small fee of 2.9% +.30. Click “Send Money Now. ” The recipient will receive a notification, either as a text message or an email, depending on the contact information that you entered. They must accept or decline the payment. An unclaimed payment is automatically cancelled if the recipient doesn't claim or accept it within 30 days. Payments that are “unclaimed" can still be canceled if you've made a mistake. If the recipient has already picked up the money, you'll need to contact him or her directly to request a refund. Decide if SquareCash meets your transaction needs. SquareCash is affiliated with the Square credit card reader, though you won't need that device to use the program. Your recipient does not need to create a SquareCash account to receive funds, though they will need to link a debit card. You can use your bank accounts, debit cards, but no credit cards or special credit accounts. Users must download the mobile application before sending money, although you can still send money using the web site. SquareCash has a $250 weekly limit for sending, and a $1000 weekly limit for receiving, for personal accounts. Sending or receiving over those limits will generate an authentication request for your name, date of birth, and last four digits of your SSN. Verifying this information will allow you to increase your sending limit to $2,500 (in most states). Sign up for SquareCash online. Sign-up is straightforward, requiring only your email or phone number and a security code verification. You can sign up right away on the site, or you can download and use the mobile app. You can wait to enter your bank account or debit card information until you've completed the account creation process. Verify your account. To protect your information, SquareCash will send a code to your phone. You will also need to read about SquareCash's security and privacy policies. Be sure to read these policies carefully, as you're dealing with your important financial information. Bookmark or download the security and privacy policies for later reference, in case issues arise with your information. Answer the question about your primary use for SquareCash. In most cases, you'll be using Cash for “Personal” reasons, such as sending money to friends and family. Other uses will charge a 2.75% fee to the recipient. Add your Bank account information. SquareCash uses only standard, US-issued bank accounts to fund payments, such as Visa, MasterCard, and Discover debit cards. They do not accept credit cards, ATM, PayPal, or prepaid bank cards. You may skip this step for now, if you're not ready or don't have it handy. This information is secure: your recipients will never see your account information. Compose an email to your payment recipient's email address. Using your email account to send money can save time and help you keep clear records or payments, even if your recipient doesn't have a SquareCash account. Add the address: [email protected] in the Cc: field. Input the dollar amount in the email's subject line. You can add a note as a record of payment for yourself and the recipient. Confirm your CVV on your debit card to complete the payment. Watch your email for next steps. The final screen may show a response of "Almost Done. Check your inbox for next steps." If so, watch for an email from Square and follow the prompts to complete the process. You'll receive a notification via email or text once the payment is complete. Any number of people may be added to the To: field. Users with linked cards will usually see an immediate deposit, but it may take 1-2 business days to appear in the recipient's bank account. Check your transaction receipt for errors. We all make mistakes, whether it be typing your friend's name incorrectly or sending too much or too little money, so it's important to double-check your information. You may still have an opportunity to cancel or retract the transaction if the recipient hasn't claimed the payment. Simply cancel the payment from the final confirmation email. If the recipient has already claimed the funds, you can only ask him or her to return the money. Ask your payee for a secure URL or link to an online payment service. This option is useful and secure, if you have have his or her direct URL or link, such as Cash.me/$cashtag, for SquareCash or PayPal.me/cashtag for PayPal. Go to the SquareCash URL your recipient provides you. If the payee has a SquareCash account, he or she automatically has this URL, and you can use it to send money quickly online. Make sure that the name on the Cash.me URL matches your friend's legal name. Enter the payment amount and click “Send. ” If you have an account and have signed in, simply enter your payment amount. You won't need to enter any further information. If you have an account, and you have Security Lock enabled, you'll be asked to verify your linked card's CVV. If you don't sign in, or don't have a SquareCash account, you can simply enter your debit card information and click “Send.” Check your email or mobile app for a notification. You should receive a message when SquareCash sends the money from your account and another when your recipient claims it. You may still have an opportunity to cancel or retract the transaction if the recipient hasn't claimed the payment. Simply cancel the payment from the final confirmation email. If the recipient has already claimed the funds, you can contact him or her to request a return payment. Go to the PayPal.me link that your recipient provides. This secure page should include his or her legal name and profile picture. For security reasons, make sure the name and photo match your friend's description. Enter the payment amount and click “Next. ” You'll either need to sign in with your own PayPal account or to create one. PayPal will not permit you to send money unless you have a verified account. You can choose to send money with a bank account or PayPal balance for free, or use your debit card or credit card for a fee (2.9% +.30). Finish and send your payment. Click the “Pay” button to send your payment to your recipient. He or she will receive either email or text message notification, depending on his or her account settings. Users with linked cards or accounts will usually see an immediate deposit, but it may take 1-2 business days to appear in the recipient's bank account. Check your email or mobile app for a notification. You should receive a message when PayPal sends the money from your account and another when your recipient claims it. Only unclaimed payments may be cancelled. Completed payments cannot be canceled, but you can contact your recipient for a refund. Decide if VENMO meets your needs. VENMO offers both online and mobile transfers, and is strongly social-media based. You can send money, with or without the mobile app, using either bank accounts or credit cards. Sending money from your linked bank account is free, while sending money from your linked credit card incurs a 3% fee per transaction. Non-VENMO users will receive a request to sign up for an account before they can receive your money. VENMO has a $299.99 weekly limit for sending for personal accounts until you have verified your information. Your sending limit will then increase to $2999.99. Sign up for VENMO online. First, create an account using either your Facebook login or your email address. VENMO uses your Facebook friends list to generate a contact list for money transfers. You can also link your email contact list. Enter name, address, email, and phone and password Click “Complete Sign Up” Verify your account using the VENMO code. The site will send a code as a text message to verify your identity and phone number. Enter the number you received as a text and then click the button to “Verify Phone.” Click the link to use on the web, if you don't have an iPhone or Android phone. You will receive an additional text message with a link to download the app if you have a mobile device. Select the “Pay” button to send money. The selected button will remain depressed, so check it to make sure you have the correct one selected. Enter the name, email address, or phone number of the person to whom you’re sending money. If you enter a name, the VENMO search engine will search for matching users in your contact list or VENMO account holders.. Be sure to check the image thumbnail, if you enter a name, to be certain it's the person to whom you want to send money. You can also add friends, using the option on the right-hand navigation, so those names appear first. Enter the amount next to the dollar sign in the large message window. You can include a note describing the purpose of the payment, so that you and your recipient can keep accurate records of payments.. You can “Share” the payment on Facebook, if you've connected your FB account, by selecting the “Share a note on Facebook” box. Add your Facebook friends to your VENMO account to speed up future payments. Select “Public,” “Friends,” or “Private” before clicking the “Send” button. You can either share your transaction in your VENMO news feed with all VENMO users or just your friends, or you can keep it private. Select “public” to allow your transaction to appear on the main news feed for all VENMO users. Choose “Friends” to only show the transaction on your VENMO friends' feeds. Choose “Private” to hide the transaction from view. Enter your debit card information. This option securely sends your friend cash with no fees. You can also enter different bank account information, using the link at the bottom of the pop-up window. Add a bank account to use ACH withdrawal, also for free. You can use a credit card to send money, but you'll incur a 3% transaction fee. Click "Pay" to complete the transaction. The funds are sent instantly to VENMO account holders, although non-users will be asked to create an account first. Make sure, before sending a payment, that all of the recipient information and amounts are correct. VENMO cannot cancel payments once sent. If you realize your mistake after you've sent the money, send your payee a request that he or she return you the money. Include a note explaining your request. VENMO can only reverse charges with permission from both parties involved. Decide if MoneyGram meets your needs. MoneyGram doesn't require you or your recipient to set up an account, although transfers in the United States must be picked up, in cash, at a physical MoneyGram location. Many other countries accept direct deposit to bank accounts or debit cards. You may use either your bank account or a credit card to fund your payment, although each option incurs different fees. Ask your payment recipient where they will pick up their money. Since MoneyGram only sends cash to physical locations, use the locations page on the web site find the most convenient location for your friend or family member. Enter your Address, City, or Zip Code in the Locations Page search box. Choose the store that is both conveniently located and has hours that fit your recipient's schedule. Check MoneyGram's rates for sending cash. Visit the "Estimate Rates" link on the main page and enter the amount of money you are sending. This will help you to figure out how much you will be charged to send the funds. You will first enter the amount you're sending then choose your payment source to determine the rate you'll pay. Pay close attention to exchange rates, if you're sending money internationally. Remember that some credit cards will charge you a cash advance fee if you use them to send money. Send money using the form on the MoneyGram home page. Enter your recipient's first and last name, along with their country. If sending money in the United States, you'll also enter their state of residence. Click "Start Sending Money Now." You can create an account, login, or send as a guest. If sending money internationally, follow the steps as they appear. Choose the method of payment delivery. In the United States, the "Cash" option is already selected. International payments will be able to select from a variety of payments, depending on what forms of delivery are allowed. Enter the payment amount. The exchange rate will be calculated for you automatically, so, if you're sending internationally, you'll see exactly how much your recipient will receive. Make sure that the full amount will not overdraw your bank account or credit card. Watch your email for a confirmation. Paying attention to the details on this receipt, such as the amount of money you sent, payment fees, and recipient information, will help you manage your accounts. Check the confirmation for errors. You can still cancel the transaction, as long as the money has not been picked up. You'll need to visit the MoneyGram web site to submit a If you have a MoneyGram account, login to the site and find the transaction details in your Transaction History. You'll see the option to cancel. If you do not have an account, use the “Track a Transfer” tool to find the payment and to cancel it on the “Transaction Details” page. | Decide if PayPal meets your needs. Sign up for PayPal online. Confirm your identity by registering a bank account or credit card. Send money using your PayPal account. Click “Send Money to Friends or Family. Enter your recipient’s email address, phone number, or name. Enter the amount you’re sending. Decide on your method of payment. Click “Send Money Now. Decide if SquareCash meets your transaction needs. Sign up for SquareCash online. Verify your account. Answer the question about your primary use for SquareCash. Add your Bank account information. Compose an email to your payment recipient's email address. Watch your email for next steps. Check your transaction receipt for errors. Ask your payee for a secure URL or link to an online payment service. Go to the SquareCash URL your recipient provides you. Enter the payment amount and click “Send. Check your email or mobile app for a notification. Go to the PayPal.me link that your recipient provides. Enter the payment amount and click “Next. Finish and send your payment. Check your email or mobile app for a notification. Decide if VENMO meets your needs. Sign up for VENMO online. Verify your account using the VENMO code. Select the “Pay” button to send money. Enter the name, email address, or phone number of the person to whom you’re sending money. Enter the amount next to the dollar sign in the large message window. Select “Public,” “Friends,” or “Private” before clicking the “Send” button. Enter your debit card information. Click "Pay" to complete the transaction. Decide if MoneyGram meets your needs. Ask your payment recipient where they will pick up their money. Check MoneyGram's rates for sending cash. Send money using the form on the MoneyGram home page. Choose the method of payment delivery. Enter the payment amount. Watch your email for a confirmation. Check the confirmation for errors. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Cut-Sugar-Out-of-Your-Child%27s-Breakfast | How to Cut Sugar Out of Your Child's Breakfast | To cut sugar out of your child's breakfast, try weaning them off of high-sugar breakfast cereals and cereal bars. Additionally, avoid giving your child sugary yogurts or jams, and instead give them grain cereal or oatmeal, which are both low in sugar. You can also give them toast with fruit on top, like bananas, blueberries, or strawberries. In addition to cutting out sugary foods, try swapping juice out with water or milk since juices contain a lot of sugar. | Wean children off of high-sugar breakfast cereals. These types of cereals have one of the highest sugar contents of all common breakfast foods for children. Not only will these sugar-rich breakfast foods give the child little substantial nutrition, they will soon give the child a sugar rush and then leave the child with little energy until their next meal. Work on removing these high-sugar offenders from your child's diet. High-sugar cereals include nearly all brightly colored, popular children's cereals: Trix, Fruit Loops, Captain Crunch, Frosted Flakes, and Apple Jacks, among many others. Cereal bars—often used as a quick breakfast during a rushed morning—can be very high in sugar as well, and should not be served to children as a standard breakfast item. Reduce your child’s consumption of sugary spreads and jams. Although these may not be as conspicuously sugary as breakfast cereals, a large amount of children's breakfast sugar intake comes from spreads and jams. Non-fruit-based spreads like Nutella are high in sugar, but even many fruit-based spreads have added sugar. When purchasing a jelly or jam, look to see if it's flavored with natural or artificial ingredients, and avoid spreads that have had sugar added. If children still want jelly or a fruit-based spread on their morning toast or bagel, look for one that contains chunks of actual fruit, as this will at least provide some vitamins and fiber. Avoid sugary yogurts. Yogurts—especially those marketed to children—tend to have high sugar contents. Even yogurts which are marked “healthy” on their label can still contain high amounts of sugar. While certain yogurts may be marked “low-fat” (probably indicating that they're made with low-fat milk) this means nothing about the sugar content. Low-fat yogurts can still be quite high in sugar. If you'd still like to serve your child yogurt, or your child requests yogurt for breakfast, make sure that they're eating a low-sugar yogurt. It's better still if children eat yogurt with granola or fruit mixed in, as this will give them fiber and vitamins. Serve children a grain cereal or oatmeal. As a replacement for high-sugar, low-fiber breakfast cereals, serve children a cereal replacement that provides fiber and nutrition. Cereal brands like Kashi and Wheaties (and many health-food cereals) will give children fiber and whole grains. Oatmeal made with grain (not instant oatmeal) is far healthier than sugary cereal, and can be sweetened by slicing a banana on top. If your children insist on eating cereal for breakfast, check the nutrition label and look for options that contain fewer than 5 grams of sugar per serving. Look for brands like Cheerios and Kix, which are relatively low in sugar and contain some fiber. Top your children’s toast with fruit. Rather than serving children high-sugar fruit spreads, you can use fruit itself as a naturally sweet and vitamin-rich topping. Some fruits like bananas, blueberries, and raspberries can be lightly mashed and spread on top of toast or a bagel. Other fruits, such as apples or pears, will need to be sliced and placed on top of the toast. For example, if your child usually has a fruit-based jam on their morning toast or bagel, replace the spread with a layer of sliced fruit. If the consistency of sliced fruit is unpleasant to your child, you can first spread a thin layer of peanut butter on top of the toast or bagel, and then layer the fruit on top of that. Read the nutrition label for sugar content and nutrition information. This label will give you reliable information about the contents of breakfast foods and will not contain vague marketing labels like “low-fat,” or “healthy.” Look for breakfast foods (cereals, jams, etc.) which contain nutritional value: things like fiber and vitamins. Also look for food options which contain a relatively small portion of the child's recommended daily sugar intake. In general, children consume roughly 11 grams of sugar each morning, which is roughly half of the sugar they should be consuming in a single day. Reading nutrition labels can help you reduce this daily sugar intake; aim for 4–5 grams of sugar with breakfast. Stay away from breakfast foods with excessive added sugar. Plenty of foods contain natural sugars: fruits, for example, are routinely high in sugar. This is a small concern, since fruits and other naturally sweet foods offer vitamins and fiber. Of more concern are foods with large amounts of added sugar (or artificial sweetener), which will boost your child's breakfast sugar intake without offsetting this with nutrition. Avoid serving children any foods with high amounts of added sugar or sweetener and focus on serving items with natural sugars. If you're looking on the nutrition labels of your child's breakfast foods, added sugar will be listed as fructose, dextrose, honey, molasses, corn syrup, or nectar. Serve non-processed whole foods. Whole foods—including fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and unprocessed meats—are far healthier than other options like white bread and fruit yogurt. Non-processed foods will also retain their fiber, vitamins, and other nutritional values. These healthy breakfast foods will nourish your children and give them energy for the day. For example, you could serve your child a breakfast including whole-grain toast topped with natural peanut butter and a sliced banana, plus a hard-boiled egg and a small container of plain yogurt flavored with sliced fruit. Prevent children from drinking soda. Soda offers no nutritional benefit to children and contains only empty calories from added sugars or artificial sweeteners. Children should be drinking minimal soda in general, but should especially avoid it during breakfast, when their bodies need nutrition to give them energy for the day. It goes without saying that children should not be given energy drinks such as Red Bull, Monster, Rock Star, and others. These drinks are packed with both sugar and caffeine and, if drank for breakfast, will first make children jittery and then tired for the rest of the day. Limit children’s consumption of juices and sports drinks. Many fruit juices—especially those marketed to children—have added sugars, and are nearly as high in sugar as sodas are. Fruit juices also contain no fiber. Read the nutrition label before you purchase fruit juice, and avoid any that have primarily artificial ingredients or that contain large percentages of sugar. Sports drinks—such as Gatorade and PowerAde—are also very high in sugar; discourage your child from drinking these as well. If your child demands fruit juices, you can slowly wean the child from the juice by diluting the juice with a little bit of water. This will reduce the sugar content in the child's drink, and the amount of water can be slowly increased over time. Serve children primarily milk or water with breakfast. Although limited amounts of naturally flavored fruit juices—which do contain some healthy vitamins—are fine, children only need to drink milk or water on a daily basis. These drinks will keep kids hydrated and give them calcium without boosting their morning sugar intake. If children are reluctant to stop drinking soda or fruit juices, you can negotiate: ask them to drink a glass of water before each glass of fruit juice. Alternately, serve milk or water in glasses that appeal to children and distract from the contents of the glass. Look for glasses or plastic cups in fun shapes and colors that appeal to your child. | Wean children off of high-sugar breakfast cereals. Reduce your child’s consumption of sugary spreads and jams. Avoid sugary yogurts. Serve children a grain cereal or oatmeal. Top your children’s toast with fruit. Read the nutrition label for sugar content and nutrition information. Stay away from breakfast foods with excessive added sugar. Serve non-processed whole foods. Prevent children from drinking soda. Limit children’s consumption of juices and sports drinks. Serve children primarily milk or water with breakfast. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Give-Serotonin-(5-Ht)-Agonists-to-a-Cat | How to Give Serotonin (5 Ht) Agonists to a Cat | To give serotonin agonist to a cat, put the pill inside a treat or some wet food so your cat is more likely to eat it. If your vet doesn't recommend mixing the medicine with food or your cat won't eat the pill, hold your cat's mouth open manually and put the pill onto the back of its tongue. To help it swallow the pill, you should close its mouth and massage its neck. Remember to give your cat the medication every day in order for it to be effective. | Give your cat its medication every day. Like other medications that affect serotonin, a serotonin (5-HT) agonist must be taken every day in order to be effective. The most common dosage schedule is one five mg tablet every twelve hours. Buspirone is the only 5-HT agonist that's regularly prescribed for pets. It can be used on its own or in combination with a tricyclic (TCA) or selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI). Ask the vet if a tablet can be taken with food. Giving your cat a serotonin agonist with food usually makes administering it easier and prevents stomach upset. Before doing so, you should make sure the dosage amount is enough for your cat to absorb and metabolize properly when it's mixed with food. Ask the vet, “Should I give my cat the tablet you prescribed on an empty stomach or with food? If I crush it and mix it with food, will my cat's body still absorb it properly?” Put it in a treat or make a meatball. You can try putting the pill in a treat or a Pill Pocket, which can be bought at a pet store. Pill Pockets are specially designed treats with a slot into which you insert a medication tablet. You can also try forming your cat's wet food into a small meatball with the pill at its center. Give your cat a treat or meatball without medicine before giving it one with the tablet. That way, you'll see whether your cat eats the meatball whole or breaks it apart. If your cat breaks the meatball apart, it might notice the tablet and just eat the food around it. If that happens, or if it doesn't tolerate the taste of the medicine, you might need to try another method. Hold the cat’s mouth open to administer a pill without food. If you have to administer a pill manually, use one hand to hold your cat's cheekbones and tilt its head. Hold the tablet with your other hand between your index finger and thumb. Use that hand's fourth finger to open your cat's mouth by lowering its chin. While holding its mouth open, insert the pill onto the back of the tongue, close the cat's mouth, and massage its neck to encourage it to swallow. Avoid getting bit by keeping your fourth finger between your cat's lower canine teeth as you hold its mouth open. You might need to administer a pill manually if your cat doesn't like the taste of medicine mixed with its food, or if the vet advises against taking the pill with food. Ask the vet for a pill gun. The vet can give you a pill gun, which can make it easier to give your cat its medicine without food. Insert the pill onto the tip of the dispenser, tilt your cat's head back, and open its mouth. Place the pill gun into your cat's mouth so the pill sits on the back of its tongue, then release the pill by pressing the plunger. Close your cat's mouth and massage its neck to encourage it to swallow. A pill dispenser might be a helpful tool if you have trouble giving your cat its medicine by hand. Calm your cat with a reward and praise. Giving your cat a pill by hand can be a stressful process for both you and your pet. Reward it with a favorite treat and give it plenty of positive verbal praise after giving it medication. If your cat needs space, give it time to calm down on its own. Ask the vet to prescribe a liquid or gel if you have trouble with tablets. Administering buspirone in tablet form is most common, since the tablet is considered the safest and most efficiently absorbed method. However, it's also available in liquid and transdermal gels. If you have trouble giving your cat pills, discuss other dosage forms with the vet. Inject liquid medication between the teeth and cheek. You can administer buspirone in liquid form using a syringe dispenser. Insert the syringe into your cat's mouth between its cheek and teeth. Push the plunger to squirt the medication into its mouth, then massage its neck or blow onto its nose to encourage it to swallow the medicine. The syringe-like dispenser doesn't have an actual needle, so there's no need to worry about pricking your cat. A cat is more likely to accidentally inhale liquid medication than a tablet. To prevent accidental inhalation, avoid holding your cat's head back when administering liquid medication. Take care to squirt between its cheek and teeth instead of in the back of its mouth. Apply a 5-HT agonist in gel form. While a transdermal gel is absorbed less efficiently than a pill, it could be the only safe and feasible method if your cat won't tolerate other dosage forms. Measure the proper dosage amount by rotating the applicator nozzle. Depending on the vet's instructions, apply the medication either in your cat's ear or directly onto its skin. Part your cat's fur to apply a transdermal gel directly onto the skin. Always wear gloves when applying the gel. Discuss issues like aggression and urine marking with the vet. Serotonin agonists are used to treat aggression, urine spraying, fear, and other abnormal behaviors. However, each of these can result from an underlying medical condition, so the vet should give your cat a full examination to rule out other potential issues. Aggression can be related to hyperthyroidism, central nervous system issues, arthritis, or dental disease. Elimination problems (improper urinating and defecating) can be caused by urinary tract inflammation, kidney disease, thyroid problems, or diabetes. Make sure your cat’s liver and kidneys function well. Serotonin agonists are processed by a cat's liver and kidneys, so the vet should screen for kidney and liver disease and overall metabolic function. You shouldn't give a cat a 5-HT agonist or most other antidepressants if these organs aren't in good health or if your cat has a history of kidney or liver disease. Serotonin (5-HT) agonists are usually used for less than six to twelve months. However, if your cat takes one for a longer duration or for the rest of its life, you should have its kidneys and liver tested at least once a year. Discuss treatment costs with the vet. Medication costs will depend on the brand, dosage strength, and dosage form. If cost is an issue, ask the vet about more affordable treatment options. If they prescribe a buspirone brand, ask for a less costly generic option. Ask if a more affordable antidepressant or antianxiety medication, like a TCA or SSRI, might be an effective option. Monitor your cat for any adverse side effects. The most common side effects of the 5-HT agonist buspirone are increased affection and playfulness. However, it can also cause dizziness, decreased appetite, stomach upset, and agitation. Some cats are hypersensitive to buspirone, and may exhibit hyperactivity, increased aggression, or seizure. Adverse side effects like drowsiness and restlessness seem to be less common in buspirone than in other medications. Schedule a vet appointment if you notice any side effects. Talk to the vet before taking your cat off of a serotonin agonist. Because of buspirone's effects on brain chemistry, stopping treatment abruptly can be dangerous. Unless you observe any serious side effects or are directed by the vet, you should wait at least three weeks after starting treatment before you consider stopping treatment. Talk to the vet about gradually lowering dosages to wean your cat off of buspirone and other antidepressant or antianxiety drugs. | Give your cat its medication every day. Ask the vet if a tablet can be taken with food. Put it in a treat or make a meatball. Hold the cat’s mouth open to administer a pill without food. Ask the vet for a pill gun. Calm your cat with a reward and praise. Ask the vet to prescribe a liquid or gel if you have trouble with tablets. Inject liquid medication between the teeth and cheek. Apply a 5-HT agonist in gel form. Discuss issues like aggression and urine marking with the vet. Make sure your cat’s liver and kidneys function well. Discuss treatment costs with the vet. Monitor your cat for any adverse side effects. Talk to the vet before taking your cat off of a serotonin agonist. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Accrue-Vacation-Time | How to Accrue Vacation Time | To accrue vacation time, become a full-time employee with the company, since this is one of the main requirements for earning vacation time. If you're a new employee, you usually have to finish a probationary period of 3 to 6 months first before you start accruing vacation. Try to remain with the same company in the long term, since loyal employees are often rewarded with additional vacation time. Find out if unused vacation days can be rolled over into the next year, which will help you build up even more time in the long run. | Work more. For most jobs that offer paid vacation, simply showing up to work helps you accrue vacation days. Though the specific rules will vary from business to business, usually, every day, week, or pay period worked will add a specific number of hours or days toward your total vacation time. For instance, in the U.S., it's common for an entry-level full-time employee to earn about two weeks (10 work days) of paid vacation per year. Assuming about 250 days of work per year (5 days per week × 52 weeks per year - 10 days for holidays), this means that each day worked earns about 1/25 (4%) of a paid vacation day. As noted, however, vacation arrangements can vary greatly between jobs. For instance, some employers may grant all vacation days at the beginning of the year and allow the employee to use them as she pleases. Other jobs — especially part-time and "temp" jobs — may not allow for any paid vacation at all. Note also that many employers choose to grant their employees "sick days" and/or "personal days" in addition to normal paid vacation time. These usually accrue at different rates than ordinary vacation days and are intended to be used for illnesses, moving, and other situations when the obligations of the employee's personal life interfere with his work commitment. However, it's common practice for employees to sometimes use these days for vacation time. If you're a new hire, finish your probationary period. Sometimes, employers require that a new employee works a certain length of time before he becomes eligible for benefits, including vacation time and other paid time off. If this is the case for your job, you'll need to finish your probationary period before you begin to earn paid vacation time — there isn't really a way around this. Like an employee's benefits, the length of a new hire's probationary period can vary from company to company. For instance, some companies have probationary periods of three months, while others have probationary periods twice as long. It's also important to note that employers may place an employee on "probationary" status for disciplinary reasons. If this is the case for you, you'll need to work with your employer to fix the problems that caused your probation to start accruing vacation time once again. Stay with your company in the long haul. Usually, long-term employees are rewarded for their loyalty with additional vacation time. Working for the same company over many years can have other benefits, as well, including raises, recognition, and additional work flexibility. If you're a relatively new hire but you're happy with your current job, consider aiming for a few years of good work to start earning additional vacation time. While vacation policies differ greatly between employers, on average, new hires in the U.S. earn about 14 days of paid vacation per year, while employees who have been working for more than 15 years earn about twice as much at 27 days per year. If you're allowed, buy more vacation time. Even with paid vacation time, it can be tricky to schedule a lengthy, refreshing break from work — sometimes, two weeks per year just doesn't cut it. For situations where employees need to take breaks longer than the amount of vacation time they have saved up, some employers allow their workers to buy additional time from other employees or the company itself. In these cases, the vacation time is almost always valued at the full value of the equivalent time worked — for instance, if you make $20 per hour, a full eight-hour day off of work would cost 8 × 20 = $160. Note that, in these situations, the cost of the time off isn't usually paid as a lump sum. Instead, the cost is deducted in small amounts over a long period of time from the employee's regular paychecks. Switch to full-time work if you are a temporary or part-time hire. Independent contractors, seasonal workers, and most other part-time or temporary ("temp") employees do not usually accrue vacation time, no matter how much they work. The logic behind this is that part-time workers have much greater flexibility in their hours than full-time workers, so they don't "need" as much vacation time. However, in reality, it's easy for a temp worker with one or more jobs to end up working long hours without accruing any sorts of benefits (including vacation time). If you're in this situation, try making the switch to full-time employment either by reworking your commitment at your current job or by finding new work. If you're a temp worker and you're on good terms with your boss, you may want to cautiously try asking for enough work to qualify as full-time and start earning benefits. Note, however, that the prospects for temp workers can be slim in this regard — many temps have a difficult time making the transition to full-time work. Make the most of other "time off" to save vacation time. As noted above, vacation days are often not the only type of paid leave offered by employers. Companies often offer a certain number of "sick days" and "personal days" per year for things like illnesses, moving days, and so on. While these often don't accumulate as rapidly as paid vacation days (for instance, some employers offer one sick day per month worked), you may want to use these to take breaks when possible to preserve your vacation time. Keep in mind that employers are also legally obligated to give you time off for certain types of important duties that are beyond your control. For instance, if you get a jury duty summons, most states have laws in place that require your employer to give you time off without requiring you to use your vacation days. Similar protections are in place for members of the armed forces or reserves who have periodic military duties. However, these laws do not always require your employer to pay you for the time off. In addition, many employers offer several days of paid bereavement leave when a close family member dies. However, this is often not mandated by law. Don't let your vacation time reach its "cap". Most workplaces have a "cap" on the amount of vacation time that can be accrued. This means that once you have a certain level of vacation time saved up (like, for instance, three weeks), you won't continue to earn more vacation time, no matter how much you work. You want every hour that you work to go towards more vacation time, so if you're about to "cap out" on vacation time, seriously consider taking time off. Vacation caps vary between employers — in many states, the law is worded to allow employers to offer as high or as low of a cap as is "reasonable." However, many state and private agencies set minimum recommended amounts. For instance, in California, the CEA (California Employers Association) recommends a "cap" of at least 1.5 times the annual amount of vacation accrued per year. Be ready to negotiate. Like wages, health insurance, 401(k) accounts, and other benefits, an employee's vacation time is subject to negotiation — especially in the U.S., where there is no national mandate for paid vacation time. If you can't get the level of vacation time you want without specifically asking for it, ask for it. If your employer is willing to talk, you may be able to reach an agreement that's satisfactory for both of you. However, it's worth noting that the strength of your bargaining position can vary greatly depending on your standing with your boss, the quality of your work, your current hours, the desirability of your skills, and more. In general, employees who are on good terms with their boss, who have a record of good work, and who have high-demand skills are more likely to fare well in negotiations. If you've decided to negotiate with your employer (or potential employer), see the section below for helpful advice on getting the level of vacation that you want. If all else fails, look for a different job. If you're unable to get the amount of vacation time you need at your current job by using any of the strategies above, you may want to consider looking for other work. If you have a proven record of good work, highly sought-after skills, or both, there's a chance you may be able to secure a greater amount of paid vacation at a new job than at a current one. Keep in mind, however, that when you leave a job you forfeit all of the paid vacation you've saved up for that job. About half of the fifty states have laws that require an employee to be paid for his unused time off when he quits or is fired. If you don't live in one of these states, strongly consider taking your vacation before you quit. Know the norms for vacation time in your field of work. One of the most important things an employee can take to the negotiating table is thorough knowledge of her field of work. Employers have an interest in keeping their wages and benefits competitive with their competitors — if they don't, they'll lose skilled employees to companies that are more generous. Before asking for more vacation time, do some research to find out the average amount of paid vacation time awarded to employees with jobs similar to yours in other countries. If you can prove that you're receiving less vacation time than is normal in your field, it will strengthen your bargaining position. One great source of this information is the U.S. Department of Labor (specifically, its Bureau of Labor Statistics), which, among many other things, regularly publishes data on the sorts of benefits offered to employees in a variety of fields. Aim high. When asking for vacation, it's a smart idea to ask for a little more than you actually want. This gives you plenty of room to negotiate — you may get what you ask for, but if your employer "pushes back", you're more likely to get the amount of vacation you actually wanted than if you had started with your original number. As long as your request isn't completely outlandish, it's unlikely that you'll damage your relationship with your boss by simply asking for the extra time. Bring examples of positive work to the negotiating table. For any sort of workplace negotiation, it's usually in your best interest to frame yourself as someone with a steady, dependable record of good work. Before you negotiate, take some time to review the work you've done recently and find a few examples of times when you've gone beyond your normal duties and done especially good work. If your employer is reluctant to give you the vacation time you want, you can bring these up to demonstrate your hard work and loyalty and claim that a little extra vacation will help you keep up your high-quality output. Statistically, taking occasional vacation leave is good for most workers' productivity. Research has found that, if every worker in the U.S. were to take just one more day of vacation each year, the U.S. economy would create an estimated $73 billion in revenue from the additional productivity. Mention the negative effects of not taking enough vacation time. Just as important as the work you've already done for you (if not more so) is the work you'll do in the future. Telling your employer that you need the time off to keep the quality of your work high (with the implication that not taking a vacation will leave you unable to do your job properly in the future) can help your boss understand the importance of giving you a break. Again, science supports the idea that vacation time can help make you a better worker overall. Research has shown that vacation time is one of the most important ways to prevent "burnout" — a state of intense fatigue and dissatisfaction that leads to dramatically reduced productivity. Ask for big breaks far ahead of time. Would it be a good idea to tell your boss that you plan on taking a two-week vacation the day before you plan to leave? Unless you have an unusually generous manager, the odds are that it is not. For the same reason, you'll want to ask for major increases in your vacation benefits well in advance of when you'll actually need it. This gives you two benefits — not only does it make you appear more kind and thoughtful in the eyes of your employer, but also gives you a better bargaining position. Since you don't need the extra vacation time right away, it will be harder for your employer to force you to settle for the bare minimum. Be willing to give up a small amount of pay or other benefits. Every negotiation with your manager is a give-and-take. To get what you want, you may have to give something back to your employer. For instance, if you want the freedom to work from home on certain days as a sort of "semi-vacation," you may be asked to take a minor cut in your salary. It's up to you to work out an arrangement that's satisfactory for you and your employer. As a very general rule, you'll never want to take a reduction in pay in exchange for vacation time that's equal to or greater than the amount of money you could have made from working during your vacation. Agreeing to this is against your financial interests — in effect, it's reducing your wages for no net benefit to you. Boost your chances with a job offer from a competitor. Perhaps the absolute best way to get what you want from your current employer is to prove that you can get it somewhere else. If you can get a job offer from another employer that includes the amount of vacation time you want, you win regardless of the outcome of your negotiations. There are one of two possibilities: your employer will either agree to give you the amount of vacation time you want, or you'll be able to leave for the other job (and get the amount of vacation time you want). Either way, you come out ahead, so don't be afraid to leverage this aggressive strategy if you can. The problem with this strategy, unfortunately, is that it requires you to put in extra effort outside of work to get the job offer in the first place. This can be difficult, especially if you're already working long hours. Don't get discouraged — many business experts agree that being employed makes you more attractive to potential employers. See our resume-writing and interview-prep articles for more information! It goes without saying, but you definitely don't want to do your job-searching work on the company dime. If your employer finds out you're looking for other work, you run a major risk of being let go. | Work more. If you're a new hire, finish your probationary period. Stay with your company in the long haul. If you're allowed, buy more vacation time. Switch to full-time work if you are a temporary or part-time hire. Make the most of other "time off" to save vacation time. Don't let your vacation time reach its "cap". Be ready to negotiate. If all else fails, look for a different job. Know the norms for vacation time in your field of work. Aim high. Bring examples of positive work to the negotiating table. Mention the negative effects of not taking enough vacation time. Ask for big breaks far ahead of time. Be willing to give up a small amount of pay or other benefits. Boost your chances with a job offer from a competitor. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Twitching | How to Stop Twitching | To stop your body twitching, make sure you get 7 to 8 hours of sleep every night, since a lack of sleep can contribute to twitches. If you drink a lot of caffeine, consider cutting down, as excessive caffeine can affect your nervous system. To stop eye twitching, try using artificial tears to prevent your eyes drying out. You should also take regular breaks from computer, phone, and television screens to reduce twitching from eye strain. If your body twitches last longer than a few weeks or hinder your every day activities, contact your doctor for treatment. | Visit your doctor. While muscle twitches are common and often benign, they can sometimes be a sign of a serious illness. Visit your doctor if your twitches last longer than a few weeks or begin to hinder your life. They can test for serious conditions, such as: Bell's Palsy. Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Tourette Syndrome. Glaucoma. Autoimmune disorders such as Lupus. Electrolyte imbalance, which can affect your organs. Ask your doctor to evaluate you for Restless Leg Syndrome. Regular twitching in your legs may be due to Restless Leg Syndrome (RLS), a condition that causes the unavoidable urge to move your lower limbs. Ask your doctor to evaluate your leg twitching, despite the fact that no concrete test exists to identify RLS. Depending on the severity of the symptoms, the doctor may prescribe you an anti-seizure medication or iron supplements to reduce the symptoms. Mild RLS may be eased with simple lifestyle changes, such as getting more sleep. Be sure to give your doctor accurate details about the severity and duration of your leg twitches. Take stock of any medications you are taking. There are a number of medications that can cause twitching while you are taking them. Antidepressants, cold and allergy medications, and anti-nausea treatments can all contribute to eye and body twitches. Take note of all the medications you are talking, both prescription and over-the-counter, and ask your doctor which one might be the culprit. Address any mental health issues you may be facing. Stress, anxiety, and other psychological issues can cause twitches or make them worse. If you are experiencing eye or body twitches, consider evaluating your mental health by visiting a talk therapist, psychiatrist, or counselor. Consult online resources provided by your local government's health services department, or contact local university health centers to find out about services offered by their psychology or psychiatry departments. Get 7-8 hours of sleep a night. Not getting enough sleep can lead to a variety of health problems and lower your overall brain function during the day. This sleep deficiency may cause or contribute to eye and body twitching. Aim to get 7-8 hours of sleep per night by going to bed earlier, avoiding naps during the day, and turning off your phone and electronics close to bedtime. If you do need to take a nap, limit it to 30 minutes so that you'll still sleep well at night. Cut back on caffeine. The stimulating effect of caffeine can put your central nervous system into overdrive, resulting in eye and body twitches. To stop twitching, cut back on your daily caffeine intake and keep it under 400 mg per day. Look for energy-boosting alternatives to coffee, such as green tea. The maximum recommended daily intake of caffeine (400 mg) equals roughly 4 small cups of regular coffee. Take a magnesium supplement. Magnesium deficiency is a common cause of body twitches and can be easily detected with blood tests. Ask your doctor if magnesium supplements would be right for you. Alternatively, up your intake of magnesium-rich foods such as spinach, oatmeal, and almonds. Magnesium supplements are available over the counter at pharmacies and health food stores. Use artificial tears to treat dry eyes. Dry eyes, caused by contact lenses, allergies, medications, or age, can cause twitching. Moisturize them by using artificial tear drops, available at drug stores. Apply the drops to your eyes whenever you experience twitching, or when they feel dry. Avoid eye strain during the day. Eye strain can cause your eyelids to pulsate, resulting in a twitch. Keep your eyes safe from strain by wearing U.V. sunglasses on bright days, and taking frequent breaks from computer, phone, and television screens. If you have a vision problem, always wear your prescription glasses or contacts when trying to read. Rest your eyes every ten minutes. Your eyes deal with a lot of strain during the day, particularly if you spend your day in front of a computer. Make an effort to take breaks every 10 minutes to relax your eyes. Close your eyes for several seconds, then focus on an object that is far away. This will refocus your vision and relax your eye muscles. | Visit your doctor. Ask your doctor to evaluate you for Restless Leg Syndrome. Take stock of any medications you are taking. Address any mental health issues you may be facing. Get 7-8 hours of sleep a night. Cut back on caffeine. Take a magnesium supplement. Use artificial tears to treat dry eyes. Avoid eye strain during the day. Rest your eyes every ten minutes. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Medical-Leave-Letter | How to Write a Medical Leave Letter | To write a medical leave letter, you'll need to explain to your boss why you need time off and how long you need. Before you write your letter, check your company's policy in its handbook or talk to someone in human resources so you know what to include. Generally, you should tell your boss which days off you need and why. You don't need to go into detail if you don't want to, but at least say something like, “I'm having a minor surgical procedure on the 5th of June and I'll need 5 working days off to recover.” If your company requires it, attach a copy of your doctor's note as proof. You should also arrange for any specific responsibilities you have to be covered by other staff while you're away. Let your boss know of these plans in your letter. Finish by thanking them for considering your leave and provide your contact details so they can reach you while you're away. | Learn your company's medical leave policy. Before you write your letter, make sure you know your company's policy. When asking for leave, you'll want to make sure you're asking for an appropriate amount of days. You can look in your company's handbook, or online, to find their sick leave policy. You can also talk to the HR Department if anything is still unclear. You'll want to mention your company's policy in your letter. This both shows that you're adhering to policy and reminds your boss of what you are entitled to as an employee. If you have questions about your company's medical leave policies, you can always contact your HR department and ask about their specific guidelines. Get a note from your doctor, if required. A doctor's note may be required if you're requesting sick leave. This is not always a requirement, and it depends on the policy of your company. If you do need a doctor's note, ask your doctor to provide you one. Do so at least a few weeks in advance (if possible) so you can get all your materials together before you need to take sick leave. Verify the dates you'll be absent. A medical leave letter needs to be specific. Before submitting your medical leave letter, you should make sure you know the exact dates during which you'll be gone. Double check the date of your procedure. Have your doctor verify how long the recovery will be, and how much time you'll need off work. Make sure your sick leave falls within the appropriate restrictions of your company's policy. Format the letter properly. Business letters follow a specific format. A medical leave letter is not different. Before writing your letter, make sure it is formatted correctly. Write down your company's address at the top of the letter. Below this, write the date in the format month, date, and year. For example, "June 5th, 2016." When you begin the letter, start with a salutation that begins with "Dear." Then, write your boss's name using his or her preferred personal title (e.g., Mr., Mrs., etc.). Begin by stating the reasons for your leave and its duration. Your introductory paragraph need not be long. You simply need to write the reason for writing the letter, why you need a leave of absence, and the dates you'll be absent from work. As your boss is likely busy, keep this letter brief and to the point. You can begin with something like, "I am writing this letter to ask for a leave of absence from work for medical reasons. According to company policy, I am entitled to 10 days of medical absence a year." From there, state the medical concerns and the dates when you'll be absent. For example, "I am having my gallbladder removed. My surgery is on Thursday the 16th, and I will require 7 days of recovery. I should be back to work by the following Thursday, the 23rd." Explain your medical condition, if necessary. If you have an unusual medical condition, it may be necessary to explain. Something like maternity leave is largely self-explanatory, but more unusual reasons for medical leave may require some explanation. This can help your boss see why your leave is necessary. You do not need to provide a lot of details, but a little information can help. For example, you can write something like, "I am having a suspicious mole removed for a biopsy this Monday. There will be further medical tests to assure I do not have melanoma, which is a form of skin cancer. I will be held up in procedures from Monday to Thursday. I should be able to return to work Friday." Be brief when writing your letter; there's no need for embellishment. Just stick to the facts to keep it professional. If you live in the United States, there are specific laws to protect your privacy, known as HIPAA. Your employer should not request more information than is necessary, and they have obligations to maintain your privacy under certain conditions. Let your boss know how you plan to handle work responsibilities when on leave. Your boss needs to know you plan on keeping up with your responsibilities during your absence. Your boss will want to know the status of your work, and how it will be completed while you're gone. If you're assigning your work to other colleagues, mention this. Make sure you ask the colleagues beforehand and get confirmation that they can take on your projects. Write something like, "The Henderson account will be managed by Charlie Hanson until my return." If you plan on working remotely, let your boss know. For example, "While I will be laid up after my knee surgery, I'll still be able to carry on much of my duties. I plan to work remotely and Skype into meetings during my absence." Close with information on how to contact you. Let your boss know how he or she can reach you if you're needed during your absence. Include the best phone number and email your boss can use to contact you. If there's any time you know you'll be unavailable, mention this. For example, "You can reach me on my regular cell phone most of the time. However, my surgery is Thursday so I will be unable to take work-related calls then." Thank your boss before adding a closing line. Close the letter by offering your boss a sincere thank you for considering your application. For example, say something like, "Thank you so much for taking the time to consider my medical leave." Then, add a formal sign off, like "sincerely," before signing your name at the bottom of the letter. If you're adding an enclosure to the letter, like a doctor's note, make sure to write "Enclosure" one line below your name at the bottom of the letter, followed by a description of the enclosure. Proofread the letter carefully. It's a good idea to proofread your letter before you send it out to make sure it's free of obvious errors. If possible, have a friend or colleague quickly proofread your letter before you send it to your boss. Set the letter aside for a few hours and then come back to it with fresh eyes. This can help you catch errors. You could also try to print the letter out if you typed it. You may have a better chance of catching your own errors when not reading on a screen. Make sure you follow any formal letter writing guidelines laid out by your office. Check company policy again. They may have special policies for business letters. For example, your office may require specific formatting or may ask that you use the company letterhead. Send the letter out according to company policy. Send the letter out when you're done. Make sure you follow company policy regarding how to send letters and memos. Do not, for example, e-mail the letter as an attachment if your boss prefers letters be sent physically. | Learn your company's medical leave policy. Get a note from your doctor, if required. Verify the dates you'll be absent. Format the letter properly. Begin by stating the reasons for your leave and its duration. Explain your medical condition, if necessary. Let your boss know how you plan to handle work responsibilities when on leave. Close with information on how to contact you. Thank your boss before adding a closing line. Proofread the letter carefully. Make sure you follow any formal letter writing guidelines laid out by your office. Send the letter out according to company policy. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Store-Eggs | How to Store Eggs | One way to store eggs is by keeping them in the refrigerator. When you buy the eggs, you can leave them in the carton to prevent the absorption of odors from the other foods in the fridge. Open the container to make sure that the eggs have the large end facing up, and place the container on a central shelf to keep them at a consistent temperature. You may want to position the container so that you can easily see the expiration date. When you use your eggs, check the egg whites to make sure they aren't thin, which can be a sign of expired eggs. | Leave the eggs in their original carton. The packaging that your eggs come in when you first buy them is also the best place for them to remain while in storage. The composite material of the carton prevents the eggshells from absorbing odors from the other items in the refrigerator. It also serves to keep them safely spaced and covered so that they won't be cracked or crushed. Built-in refrigerator egg compartments often require you to dump all your eggs in unprotected, which can lead to big messes and wasted eggs. Leaving the eggs in their original carton also ensures that the expiration date remains in plain sight. Keep the eggs large-end up. Eggs are situated in the carton with the bulbous end on top for a reason. This keeps the yolk centered inside, which protects it from breaking. A balanced, intact yolk will taste fresher and yields better results when used in miscellaneous recipes. Avoid moving or repositioning eggs too much, as this may damage the yolk or the natural air pockets inside. Store the eggs on a central shelf in the refrigerator. Many people think stashing their eggs on the inside of the door is more convenient. However, the main body of the refrigerator is superior for preserving eggs because it allows them to maintain a more consistent temperature. To maximize their lifespan, keep your eggs at around 40 degrees F (7 degrees C) or cooler. Frequent opening and closing of the refrigerator makes for more rapid changes in temperature around the door. Processed eggs should always be refrigerated, while it may be okay to store raw, freshly laid eggs at room temperature. Separate the whites from the yolks. Crack the eggs you wish to freeze and pour the whites into a freezer-safe airtight container. Sift out the yolks—these should be placed in a separate container. Take care not to puncture the yolks while cracking and sifting the eggs. Protect separated egg yolks by refrigerating them in a bowl cold water. Storing the white and yolks separately will make them easier to use as needed in culinary projects. Beat the eggs together. Alternately, you can just as easily freeze whole eggs without the need to separate them first. Simply whip the eggs until they're completely integrated, then transfer them to the freezing container. When properly frozen, whole eggs will usually stay fresh for up to a year. Freezing eggs whole can be a more space-effective storage solution. Add a pinch of sugar or salt. Eggs yolks have a tendency to harden into a thick gel when frozen. You can avoid this by mixing in a small amount of salt or sugar, which will keep the yolks from congealing. These additives make it more difficult for the proteins in the yolks to bond and solidify in low temperatures. Generally, you should aim to incorporate about ⅛ teaspoon of salt and 1 ½ teaspoons of sugar for every ¼ cup of eggs (about four large eggs). Use salt for eggs that are destined for savory dishes and sugar for those that will go into desserts and other sweet confections. Freeze in an airtight container. As previously mentioned, the container you choose to freeze eggs should be one with a lid that makes it completely airtight. Otherwise, moisture may enter or escape from the container, potentially ruining the eggs. A lidded piece of Tupperware or similar container will work best for this purpose. If you happen to run low on spare storage containers, you can portion the yolks or white into an ordinary ice cube tray. Freezer bags aren't recommended, as they can easily burst and create a mess. Should you be forced to use a freezer bag, make sure it's securely sealed and that you've pressed out all excess air before closing it. Beware of eggs that have a foul odor. The easiest way to tell when a package of eggs has gone bad is to take a whiff. After awhile, expired eggs will begin to emit an unpleasant sulfur stench. This odor is unignorable, so if you don't detect anything offputting, there's a good chance your eggs are okay. Fresh eggs should have no real smell of any kind. Dispose of rotten eggs down the garbage disposal rather than the trash to keep the stench from spreading throughout your home. Look for cloudy whites. Once you crack the egg, take note of the condition of the white and yolk. Young egg whites should have a somewhat milky appearance due to their high natural protein content. As the egg ages and begins to break down, the white will become perfectly clear, and may turn thin and soupy. Clear whites don't necessarily mean that an egg is bad, but they can be an indicator of freshness. Avoid cooking with eggs that contain watery whites, as these have a more difficult time binding ingredients together. Check the consistency of the yolk. A healthy egg yolk will be firm and intact, with a rich golden-yellow color. By contrast, bad eggs will almost always contain flat, asymmetrical or easily-ruptured yolks. Dull-looking yolks are a clear sign that the egg is past its prime. Fresh eggs from pastured chickens often have large yolks that are a darker orange color and take up more of the area inside the egg. Place the egg in a bowl of water to see if it floats. One time-honored method of testing the quality of questionable eggs is to submerge them in a few inches of water. If the egg is fresh, it will sink straight to the bottom of the bowl. If it bobs to the surface or hovers near the waterline, you may be better off acquiring another batch. When the shells of older eggs deteriorate, it creates a buildup of gasses inside, which will cause them to float. The float test will allow you to find out whether your eggs are still good without having to crack them. | Leave the eggs in their original carton. Keep the eggs large-end up. Store the eggs on a central shelf in the refrigerator. Separate the whites from the yolks. Beat the eggs together. Add a pinch of sugar or salt. Freeze in an airtight container. Beware of eggs that have a foul odor. Look for cloudy whites. Check the consistency of the yolk. Place the egg in a bowl of water to see if it floats. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Draw-Clouds | How to Draw Clouds | To draw basic clouds, start by lightly sketching an elongated oval on a piece of paper, which will be the outline of your first cloud. Next, draw darker, arched lines along the outline sketch, all the way around the oval, to create a fluffy, cartoon-like cloud. Then, erase the sketched outline, color the cloud light gray or white, and make the background blue to represent the sky! | Start an elongated oval for the outline sketch. Draw line arches on the oval outline sketch. Erase the outline sketches. Color the draft. You can fill in a light gray color to put the shade of the cloud. Color the background with blue. Get any blue colored paper. You can use this technique in drawing a realistic cloud. Take one of your oil pastels for the shade of the cloud. Choose light gray for the shade of the clouds. The shades of the clouds are usually located at the bottom part of the clouds. However, shades always depend on where the light source is coming from. Add white. Using white oil pastels make circular strokes of the medium to the colored paper. Smudge the colors. Use your thumb or index finger in smudging the colors. Carefully wipe the colors with your finger, according to the shape of the cloud, to show the smudge effect. Put on the white oil pastel strokes. Repeat the same circular strokes that you have done earlier. Only this time do not put too much pressure on the pastel strokes. Do it enough to show the actual shape of the clouds. Add the shade. Add light and few strokes of lavender on the bottom areas to show the shade of the clouds. | Start an elongated oval for the outline sketch. Draw line arches on the oval outline sketch. Erase the outline sketches. Color the draft. Color the background with blue. Get any blue colored paper. Take one of your oil pastels for the shade of the cloud. Add white. Smudge the colors. Put on the white oil pastel strokes. Add the shade. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Start-a-Vehicle-Rental-Business | How to Start a Vehicle Rental Business | If you want to start a vehicle rental business, decide if you want to rent daily or by contract, and look into setting up a franchise to make the process easier. Choose a location for your business, such as a building near an airport or hotel, and purchase or lease 1-5 cars to start your rental fleet. Make sure you have comprehensive insurance for all of your cars, and write a business plan for your rental service. Then, apply for a business license with your local government, and register your business to receive a tax identification number. | Research the market in your area. Identify where all the car rental places are in your area. Look for places you might locate your business. The car rental business can be competitive, so you need to figure out what people want and make it accessible to them. Try talking to people and businesses to decide who would benefit from a car rental business. For example, car rental businesses near airports tend to do well. You may be able to open a franchise in the airport, or you may need to locate elsewhere. Consider what your customers need. If you're in a tourist area, for instance, people may be willing to rent expensive cars they wouldn't otherwise own. That could be an opportunity for your business to capitalize on. Choose to rent cars daily or by contract. The main types of car rental operations are contract hire and daily hire. In a contract hire business, customers lease vehicles for a set amount of time. Your customers will typically be businesses. Daily hire businesses involve renting out cars for short periods of time, often to individuals. Think of who you want to rent to. If you would rather deal with the general public, starting with daily hires is better. If you don't mind long-term deals, contract hires are better for you. Start a franchise to simplify the set-up process for your business. The major car rental chains operate around the world. You can get involved by going onto their websites and requesting information about franchise opportunities. They will contact you, then help you set up the franchise. A franchise typically takes less paperwork and money to set up than a new retail business. With a franchise, you have the benefit of a corporate brand. You buy all your equipment from the corporation. They help you with paperwork, such as when obtaining licenses, and may offer business training. Advertisements made by the corporate office help your business, as does the name recognition. As a franchisee, you sign a contract with the company. You will need to pay them every year to use the company name. They may give you rules, so you have less control over how you run your business. Bad publicity from other branches can harm your business, and the company can decide not to renew your contract when it expires. Starting a rental business from scratch can be tricky without entrepreneurial experience, but if you're successful, you don't have to pay a rental chain for the rights to use their image. Purchase an existing rental business to save time and money. Existing businesses are the middle ground between starting a franchise and a new business. A lot of the basic structures are in place, such as insurance services and loan companies. These financial companies may be more likely to work with you because you have the benefit of an established business. You can also inherit a basic fleet of cars and other equipment without having to shop around. Getting an existing business requires a lot of research. Make sure the location is right and that you can capitalize on the market. Finding a business to buy can take a little luck. You may need to search around to find someone looking to get out of the rental business. The initial cost can be a little steep, since you often need to pay for existing assets like the car fleet. Choose a location for your operation. Do plenty of market research and find out what you can about your competition. Most of the time, you are better off finding a spot away from existing rental companies. However, visible, accessible, and safe locations attract the most customers. A location near airports, hotels, and train stations often provides a significant boost for a rental business. Although being near a transportation hub often is helpful, it may not make or break your business. Plenty of businesses do well in smaller towns without much competition. In addition, a rental company that loans cars to other businesses may not benefit from a high-rent location near an airport. If you do intend on starting your business near other companies, come up with a unique service angle, such as renting a luxury car other places don't have. You can start from home if you only have a couple of cars. This can give you an opportunity to build funds. Some disadvantages are that you may not have space to store cars and may not feel comfortable directing customers to your home. Build a fleet consisting of at least several cars. The most important consideration to make at this stage is if you plan on purchasing your cars or leasing them. Purchasing a fleet outright is costly, but it may save you money in the long run. Leasing involves renting cars from a place like a dealership, but you have to pay the contract cost as long as you have the car and have to return it when you're done using it. Initially, your fleet doesn't have to be large. Having between 3 to 5 cars can be enough. Some people even start from home with 1 or 2 luxury cars. A well-maintained fleet with high turnover means more profit. However, employing your own maintenance staff can be expensive. Leased vehicles are often under warranty, so you aren't stuck with expensive repairs. Remember the weather conditions in your area. If you live in a place with harsh winters, for example, have some cars that can handle the snow. Purchase a comprehensive insurance policy for your fleet. Shop around for policies that offer both collision and liability protection for your cars. These policies protect your business in case of accidents. Make sure your policy is also available for your customers so they can avoid liability. They can choose to pay extra for coverage or decline it when they rent a vehicle. It is illegal to trade without some form of fleet insurance. Speak with professional insurance agents and brokers. Some companies offer “pay as you go” insurance solutions, combining the benefits of an annual policy with more flexibility. Finding insurance for a new business can be tough. IT is easier to get insurance when buying an existing business. With a franchise, the parent company provides insurance. Write out a business plan describing how your business will operate. A business plan is like a blueprint. Carefully outline the aspects of your business in as much detail as possible. Explain how much funding you need and how you will obtain it. Also, explain how you will attract clients, obtain your fleet, and how you will manage and operate your business. The more specific you are with your plan, the better off you will be. Outlining the plan can help you identify costly weaknesses in your business strategy before they arise. You may never need to refer back to your plan to run your rental business. However, you can always use it as a means to refocus on your goals and business strategies. Obtain funding for your business. There are many different ways you can get financing. Many business owners turn to banks to supplement their own contributions. You can also pitch your business to investors. Some investors risk money in the hopes of a return on their investment, while others demand partnership. Bring along your business plan. A good plan makes investors feel more confident in the sustainability of your business. Apply for a business license from your local government. Visit the closest finance office in your area and submit a license application. It is a short application you use to describe your business. Some basic questions will ask you for details like the name of your business, what service your business provides, how many employees you intend on hiring, and the name of your insurance provider. Pay a small application fee, then wait about 2 weeks to receive your license in the mail. Depending on where you live, you may need to submit a separate application to your state government. The state government provides a business permit requiring you to keep insurance records and follow zoning laws. You may not be able to open your business without this permit. If you need help, look for organizations in your area such as the Small Business Administration. They can guide you in the right direction. Register your business’ name to get a tax identification number. Visit your state government's revenue and taxation department or log onto their website. Fill out and mail the business form with a small application fee. You need to do this if you plan on naming your business and hiring employees. After about 2 weeks, they will give you a tax identification number, allowing you to open for operation. When you register the business, you get to choose its structure. The most common option is a sole proprietorship, which is easy and straightforward. You are responsible for all of the debts your business incurs. A partnership is similar to a sole proprietorship, but 2 or more people share the costs. You will need to create a deed explaining the responsibilities of each partner and how to solve disputes. A limited liability corporation is a distinct business. You are not held personally responsible for debts. You get a separate tax number from the state and can open a bank account under the business' name. Get software to help you manage day to day operations. Having good computer systems is way more effective than keeping large logbooks. Invest in accounting and fleet management software that allows you to track your finances and cars. Shop around online for a well-reviewed product suite that has the features you need. Some functions the software needs to automate includes payroll, tracking car rentals, storing Draw up a quality rental agreement for your customers. The rental contract is important for avoiding liability issues arising from accidents. Your contract needs to be legally-binding, explaining what happens in any scenario you encounter. This contract needs to be presented to every customer that rents a car. They sign it and you store it on your computer. Hire a lawyer to draw up an effective contract. The lawyer's fee is worth the long-term protection a good contract affords your business. Some aspects the contract covers includes liability in case of an accident, insurance coverage, and late fees. Hire mechanics to maintain your car fleet. Even if you don't know the first thing about removing a lug nut, you can still make your business work. Good mechanics keep your cars operational. Interview experienced workers that can help you order parts as well as repair problems before they become bigger issues. Bringing on extra help can be expensive for a new business. You can try partnering with an automotive program at a local school to service your cars at little cost. Not all cars can be repaired to perfection. Good mechanics can give you insight on when to get rid of old vehicles. Many rental agencies sell cars they no longer use, then invest the profits into new cars. Set up a website for your business. A website is a must if you wish to receive a steady flow of customers. The Internet gives customers flexibility to shop around for rentals before they travel. Use your website to list the cars you have available, rental prices, your phone number, and any other details that can bring customers to your door. If you don't have a website, potential customers will go to someone that does. Build a starter website using 1 of the free platforms available online. Also, consider reserving your business' name as a domain name so customers can easily search for your rental agency. Install an online booking system on your website so customers can reserve cars online. Search online to shop around for different systems. If you have a hard time building your own website, consider hiring a professional. You may also be able to find volunteers at a local university. Form marketing alliances to advertise your business. Speak with other business owners in your area to come up with ways you can work together. Convince hotels and other area businesses to recommend your cars. Also, print up pamphlets you can leave for customers. You can also try partnering with a booking website to get more advertising at the cost of a small sales commission, usually no more than 20%. For example, consider partnering with Rentalcars.com or CarTraveler. If you offer motorcycle or scooter rentals, try BikesBooking.com. | Research the market in your area. Choose to rent cars daily or by contract. Start a franchise to simplify the set-up process for your business. Purchase an existing rental business to save time and money. Choose a location for your operation. Build a fleet consisting of at least several cars. Purchase a comprehensive insurance policy for your fleet. Write out a business plan describing how your business will operate. Obtain funding for your business. Apply for a business license from your local government. Register your business’ name to get a tax identification number. Get software to help you manage day to day operations. Draw up a quality rental agreement for your customers. Hire mechanics to maintain your car fleet. Set up a website for your business. Form marketing alliances to advertise your business. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Live-Happily | How to Live Happily | To live happily, build up your self esteem by giving yourself what you need to be happy, like time for yourself or a fun class to build your confidence. If you can't follow your passions in your career, find an alternative in your hobbies, such as taking music lessons instead of being a rockstar or starting a blog instead of being a novelist. You can also spend time outside and get more exercise, as both a way to care for yourself and meet interesting new people. | Create a positive mindset. Start by noticing negative thoughts when they come to you. Acknowledge them, then counter them with positive thoughts. You can also choose a positive affirmation for yourself, which you can repeat throughout the day to keep your thoughts on track. Try to look for positives even in difficult situations. For example, consider lessons you've learned or people you met. Learn to see failure as a challenge, giving you the opportunity to grow. Embrace yourself as you are. Accept yourself just as you are because you're already amazing! You can, of course, change as a person but you should never feel like there's something wrong with you just as you are now. Stop demanding perfection and embrace your faults! Increase your confidence. You will be better able to pursue the things you want if you have the confidence it takes to go and take those things for yourself. Improve your confidence so that you feel better and take life by the horns. Build your self-esteem. Learn to love yourself and care for yourself. This is one of the most important parts of living a happy life. Even if you have very few material possessions, you can be happy if you love yourself and are happy with who you are and where you're at. Remember how wonderful you are and all of the things you accomplished, and keep in mind all of the things you're going to accomplish. Embrace your faults and avoid holding yourself to an unattainable standard of perfection. Nobody is perfect! Learn to have gratitude toward yourself and your life. Be thankful for what you already have and the things you've done. Change for yourself. Never change for anyone but yourself. If you have things that you don't like about yourself because you don't like them, then you can always work to change. But if people put conditions on whether or not they like you, then they're never going to really like you and you won't be able to change anyone. It's hard for people to change, and you'll only be able to do it at all if you really, really want to. Don't overthink things or fall prey to social pressure! Remember the phrase, "You do you." Your only competition should be yourself, and you should only change because you want to be better. Ignore the haters. Haters gonna hate. There are always going to be people that are just so miserable in their own lives that they feel the need to pick on you. But don't let their misery spoil things for you or get you down about yourself. Basically, they suck and they aren't worth your time. Ignore them and hope that their lives get happier someday. Give yourself what you need. Do things to make yourself happy. Let yourself have something special every now and again. Care for your physical, spiritual, and emotional sides. Don't get so focused on one that you ignore another. Try to get in touch with the things that make you happy and then do those things! Respect people. When you respect others and treat them the way that you would want to be treated, then they in turn treat you better and you get to feel better about yourself at the end of the day. Remember: humans are social creatures. We need each other to survive and be happy. Don't drive people away by being a jerk. Give as much as you get. In your relationships, whether they're friendships or romantic relationships, you need to offer as much of yourself to others as you ask from them. You will only get out of relationships what you're willing to put in. Love people, make sacrifices, work for the good of everyone, and don't be selfish. Recognize, however, when someone is abusing you. If someone does things that show that they don't care about you, such as insulting you or hurting you, then cut them out of your life. They will only destroy your happiness. Help others. One of the greatest senses of fulfillment that you can get comes from helping other people in a significant, tangible way. If you want to increase your own happiness, try helping others. You can make it a point to be more helpful to people in your life, or you can do something like volunteer in your community. Celebrate positives. Don't be jealous of people. All that does is make you unhappy. Instead, be happy for people when things go well! Be genuinely happy for them and try to focus on living vicariously or learning from their success, rather than letting yourself think that they never earned it and you never get anything nice. Accept faults. People are different and absolutely everyone on Earth has faults. Focusing on someone's faults and letting it make you angry or unhappy is only going to make everyone's life worse. Embrace the idea that their differences make life more interesting and move on with your life. Communicate. Communication is key to social happiness. When someone hurts you or lets you down, it's usually because of a miscommunication. When you feel ignored or your friendships suffer, it's because there isn't enough communication going on. Make a point of talking to people more and encouraging more open, honest dialogue. If you communicate effectively, you can avoid drama in your life. Open yourself up to experiences. If you want to find the career for you, a good first step is to find out what makes you happy. But sometimes we don't know what makes us really happy because we've never tried it before. Open yourself up to new experiences and you might surprise yourself. Take some time away from your typical routine and environment. This will help you take a step back from your life and see yourself clearer. Break down what your values are and what you enjoy doing. Identify the jobs that you like and what it is exactly about your dream career that you find so captivating. Really break it down to its key element. Not everyone can be something like a rock star or a famous artist, but there is more than one job that lets you enjoy the fun part of it. Ask yourself the following questions to help you determine what you enjoy: Would you do this type of work for free? How would you spend your free time if you had no obligations? For example, if you want to be a rock star, is it that you enjoy being the center of attention? Maybe you enjoy creating things. Or maybe it's getting to listen to music. There are more accessible careers that let you do these things! Follow that passion. Once you find out what specific thing it is that makes you feel happy and fulfilled, follow that passion until you have a career that's focused on doing that thing. If you're doing work that caters to your passion, then you'll love getting up every morning and you won't feel awful when you go to bed at night. Find out how to succeed. Find out what you need to do in order to get the career you want and then work to do that. Look for advertisements for your ideal job and look at the requirements they want. Don't feel restricted by what you see: there are ways to go back to school, even if money is a problem. Keep moving forward. Keep going, keep working your way up, and never, ever give up. Keep giving yourself new goals. The second you stop working to be better is the second you feel unfulfilled and bored. Learn a new skill. Maximize your enjoyment of your life by learning to do something that you enjoy and that you can be proud of. Everyone has something that they've always wanted to learn how to do. You're alive...so why aren't you doing it? Make time and pursue the things that you want to do. Spend time outside. Get outside. When we spend too much time inside, we begin to feel trapped in our repetitive lives. We also tend to forget just how amazing the world is. Did you know that there's a tree in Utah that's 80,000 years old? Or that Blue Whales have a heart the size of a mini-van? Embrace feelings of amazement about the natural world, rather than letting yourself get all jaded. Exercise more. Forget about getting thin and hot: that's not important. What is important is that you feel healthy and strong, and you build the habits that lead to a long life. Being out of shape or unhealthy may make you feel only a bit gross during the day, but when you start getting in shape you'll be surprised just how much better you feel. Travel, anywhere. Traveling will open you up to a wealth of experiences and people that you would never have even known about if you just stay at home on the Internet all day. Get out and go places, even if they're not very far away. Ditch the tourist routine for a local experience if you want to gain even more incredible experiences. Take risks. If you keep your life safe and same-y, you'll never get anything really wonderful or new. You can't wait for amazing things to fall into your lap because they most likely never will. Getting real rewards means taking risks in life. Just make sure that you weight the risk vs the reward and make sure that it's worth it to you (but sometimes you're just going to have to push that boundary a bit). In a way, everything is a risk. Don't hold yourself back from something you love! Stay committed to your obligations and personal goals. Don't be swayed by how you feel in the moment. Letting your emotions sway you will let you down in the long run, as they are temporary. If emotions control you, they'll leave you unhappy. Committing to something and working toward it will lead to happiness. Seize the moment. Take an active role in your life, taking initiative and opportunities. This will give you the chance to explore everything that life has to offer. Hesitate too much, and you'll just watch life pass you by. Start by doing one thing every day. Overtime, this will add up! Accept change. Change is going to happen, whether you want it to or not. If you spend a lot of energy and build a lot of stress trying to fight changes, you're never going to be happy. Accept changes, even if they're bad ones. If something's really bad, you can always find a way to fix the problem or make it better. But you don't want to fight a blessing in disguise. Prioritize. Unhappy people tend to have their priorities completely out of order. Check yours. If you value your car more than your children, you're going to live an unhappy life. A wise man once said of material wealth: "You can't take it with you". Appreciate the good things. When good things happen to you, you should celebrate them and enjoy every moment of them, instead of worrying about when you'll lose them or just wanting more. This will maximize the enjoyment that you get out of life. Don't sweat the tough things. When bad things happen, don't let it get you down. The situation is only temporary, because all things in life are temporary. Work to improve your situation and just keep telling yourself: this too shall pass. Let yourself enjoy the world. Never hold back on your happiness. We learn, as we get older, to mute our emotions or be ashamed of them. Stop worrying about what someone will think about your joyful glee that there's going to be another season of Almost Human and just be happy. Your happiness should never be muted by the stupid opinion of someone else. Let them go and be miserable, you just have a good time. | Create a positive mindset. Embrace yourself as you are. Increase your confidence. Build your self-esteem. Change for yourself. Ignore the haters. Give yourself what you need. Respect people. Give as much as you get. Help others. Celebrate positives. Accept faults. Communicate. Open yourself up to experiences. Break down what your values are and what you enjoy doing. Follow that passion. Find out how to succeed. Keep moving forward. Learn a new skill. Spend time outside. Exercise more. Travel, anywhere. Take risks. Stay committed to your obligations and personal goals. Seize the moment. Accept change. Prioritize. Appreciate the good things. Don't sweat the tough things. Let yourself enjoy the world. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-a-Wheelchair-Through-Medicare | How to Get a Wheelchair Through Medicare | If you're on Medicare and want to get a wheelchair, first make an appointment with your doctor to get a signed certificate of necessity. At your appointment, explain to your doctor the activities you can't do due to your condition and why a wheelchair would help. Be as detailed as you can, since this will help the doctor decide whether they can support your request. Discuss with your doctor whether you need a manual wheelchair, which you'll need to power with your upper body or have someone push you, or a power-operated vehicle, which you'll operate yourself with a control panel. Once you've got the signed certificate, make sure you've already paid your part B deductible, since Medicare won't pay for your wheelchair until you do. Finally, choose a wheelchair from a Medicare-approved supplier, which you'll find on the Medicare website. | Get on Medicare. If you are over the age of 65, a US citizen, and having paid into Social Security through your job for at least 10 years, you are eligible for Medicare, the government's health care insurance plan. There are 4 plans in the Medicare program (Parts A, B, C, and D), which cover different aspects of your healthcare. Find a plan that works for you, and enroll during the open enrollment periods. You may already be covered. Once you apply for Social Security benefits, you will be automatically enrolled in Medicare Part A, which covers hospital care, and Part B, which covers medical services and supplies. These two parts together are sometimes called "Original Medicare." Part C, a healthcare insurance plan, and Part D, the prescription drug plan, require separate applications. They don't have anything to do with getting a wheelchair, so no need to worry about them here. Schedule a doctor's appointment. Medicare will require a signed Certificate of Necessity from a doctor for your wheelchair. Your doctor will need to determine that you meet the necessary conditions to receive Medicare support. Explain to your doctor why you need a wheelchair. Explain the specific issues you are having or tasks you cannot perform as a result of your condition. Provide your doctor with as much detail as possible in your answers. You will also want to be sure that a wheelchair will solve your issues, and not some other piece of equipment, like a cane, crutches, or a walker. Tasks that you cannot do along can be simple, everyday tasks. If you have trouble bathing, getting dressed, or using the bathroom, even with help, these are all acceptable reasons for needing medical equipment. Make sure you will be able to operate the wheelchair safely. A wheelchair is a substantial piece of equipment, and one that will take some time to use properly. You will need to be able to get in and out of the chair, as well as maneuver it around your home. If you cannot do this on your own, then you will need help. You may need to find an assistant, whether a family member or professional nurse, to help you safely use your wheelchair. Decide on the wheelchair that is best for you. The Certificate of Necessity will have to note the type of wheelchair you need. In general, there are three different types of wheelchairs: a manual wheelchair, power-operated vehicle, or power wheelchair. A manual wheelchair is powered by you or someone else pushing it. If you have enough upper body strength to maneuver the chair, or you have someone able to push you around, you can qualify for a manual wheelchair. To qualify for a power-operated vehicle, or scooter, you need to demonstrate the strength and ability to sit up and operate the controls safely. You will also need to be able to get in and out of the vehicle safely, whether by yourself or with help. If you can't use a manual wheelchair, or don't qualify for a power-operated scooter because you cannot sit up or work the controls safely, you might qualify for a power wheelchair. Your doctor will need to give you a face-to-face exam in order to submit the written order. Consider other features, such as folding easily to get in and out of the car. Determine whether you will be using your wheelchair indoors or outdoors (or both), and how many hours in the day you will be using it. Get the signed Certificate of Necessity. Once you have demonstrated need to your doctor, and decided upon the proper wheelchair for you, he or she can sign the necessary certificate, and get you on your way to a wheelchair or scooter. Check to make sure you have met your Part B deductible. Medicare will not pay for the wheelchair until you have met your deductible. In 2015, the deductible is $147. This means you must have paid at least $147 of out-of-pocket medical expenses before the Medicare Part B coverage is applied to your wheelchair. The deductible can change every year, so make sure you have the most up-to-date information from Medicare, either through official paperwork they send you, or through their website: https://www.medicare.gov/your-medicare-costs/index.html. Know how much you are going to pay. Medicare will help cover your expenses, but it won't make the wheelchair free in most cases. Assuming you meet the deductible, Medicare Part B will cover 80 percent of the wheelchair cost, meaning you will pay 20 percent. If you are unable to pay that 20 percent, you may be able to get additional assistance through the Medicare Savings Program. Payments are different in each state, so you will need to contact your state office to find out if you qualify, and how much money you can receive. Determine whether you should rent or buy your wheelchair. Rental can be cheaper in the short term, so you may choose to rent, rather than buy, your wheelchair. If you rent, Medicare will cover rental costs for up to 13 months. After 13 months, you will own the equipment. If you expect to use the wheelchair for a long time, buying up front may be cheaper after you account for a deposit and the rental payments. You should discuss the length of time you will need the wheelchair with your doctor, while you can discuss the payment options with the medical supplier. Find a supplier approved by Medicare. Medicare will only pay for costs that they approve, so purchase your wheelchair at a medical supply store that is approved by Medicare. You can find those stores either by calling Medicare directly at 1-800-MEDICARE (1-800-633-4227) or searching through their online directory at https://www.medicare.gov/SupplierDirectory/. You are looking for a supplier that sells Durable Medical Equipment (DME). See if you are eligible for Medicare's Competitive Bidding Program. In certain parts of the country, Medicare will have suppliers submit bids to provide medical items, like wheelchairs, as a lower price. This only applies for sure if you are covered under Original Medicare (Parts A and B). If you are enrolled in Part C, a Medicare Advantage Plan (such as an HMO or PPO), you will need to check with your plan to see if it is involved with the Competitive Bidding Program. Contact a supplier. Once you have your Certificate of Necessity, call the company you want to purchase from within 45 days. They will send a representative to your house to measure and make sure you are getting the right model. Once you have picked out the right chair, the supplier will make arrangements for delivery and payment. | Get on Medicare. Schedule a doctor's appointment. Explain to your doctor why you need a wheelchair. Make sure you will be able to operate the wheelchair safely. Decide on the wheelchair that is best for you. Get the signed Certificate of Necessity. Check to make sure you have met your Part B deductible. Know how much you are going to pay. Determine whether you should rent or buy your wheelchair. Find a supplier approved by Medicare. See if you are eligible for Medicare's Competitive Bidding Program. Contact a supplier. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Tell-Someone-You-Don%27t-Want-to-Date-Them-Without-Hurting-Them | How to Tell Someone You Don't Want to Date Them Without Hurting Them | If you want to tell someone you don't want to date them without hurting them, smile and thank them for the compliment before explaining clearly that you're not interested. When you give your answer, be calm but firm, since creating any doubt in your answer could make them think they still have a chance. For example, try saying something like, “Thanks, I'm really flattered that you asked me out, but I'm not interested in you in that way.” Try to stick to a friendly tone during your response, and make a quick exit to avoid giving them any false hope. | Express that you are flattered but not interested. Whether you are interested in the person or not, being asked out is always a compliment. That person thinks you are worth risking possible rejection and embarrassment for, and although they could have chosen literally anyone in the world to be interested in, they picked you. It takes a lot of courage to put yourself out there like that. Smile and say thank you. Express gratitude that the other person thought of you in that way, but clearly state that although you appreciate it, you aren't interested. For example, try saying something simple like, "Thanks, I'm really flattered that you asked me out, but I'm not interested in you in that way." Pause for a beat before you say no. If you are put on the spot, at least pause for a moment before verbally shutting the person down. This shows them that you actually considered their question – even if you didn't. Saying “no” without a trace of hesitation can definitely hurt someone's feelings. Say as little as possible. When it comes to turning someone down, less is usually more. Lengthy rejections and rambling explanations can open the conversation up to debate and misinterpretation. You don't need to elaborate at length, so keep your rejection short and sweet. The more you say, the more false it will feel to the other person, and the more it prolongs an already awkward conversation. Fib skillfully. If you're going to make up an excuse, at least make sure to use something that is believable and doesn't have a loophole. For instance, “I just got a promotion and I want to focus on my work” or "I want to prioritize my friendships" is much stronger than “I'm really busy this week” or “I'm just not ready to date right now.” Use “I” statements. Instead of using language describing why you don't want them, try putting the focus on yourself instead. Simple statements such as, “I don't see you that way, I'm sorry” and “I really like you as a person, but I don't feel a connection between us” are easier to digest than “You aren't my type." End the conversation gracefully. Both of you are probably feeling awkward and uncomfortable at this point, but try to end the conversation on a positive or lighthearted note. If it seems appropriate, try using a little humor. At the very least, offer a sincere smile and excuse yourself. Make a quick exit. Continuing the conversation or hanging around after the deed is done can be confusing and unpleasant for the other person. You might want to keep the conversation going in an effort to try to act normal and make the other person feel better about the rejection, but the kindest thing to do is end the encounter as soon as possible. Keep the matter private. There is no reason to discuss the matter at all with co-workers or at length with your friends. Be respectful of the other person's feelings. Being rejected is difficult enough without having to navigate the additional problem of feeling ashamed about it in front of other people. Confront the issue. Rejecting someone is usually extremely awkward for both parties involved and it can be tempting to ignore the situation entirely. If you pretend it's not happening it will magically go away, right? Unfortunately, allowing silence to be your answer and hoping the other person will eventually “get the hint” is both cruel and a poor strategy that often backfires. Give them a firm answer as soon as possible. Avoid waiting for “the right time” because there usually is no “right time." The longer you wait, the harder and more awkward the rejection will be for both of you. It can make it difficult for the other person to move on if they don't receive a firm and clear “no” from you, so the kindest thing you can do is provide that to them. It may sting a little at first, but in the long run you'll both be happier for it. Avoid “ghosting. " Ghosting is a relatively new term to describe an age-old way of rejecting someone – by disappearing completely after an initial encounter, whether that's one date or several. Rather than confronting the issue, the initiator permanently withdraws completely with no explanation – ever. Vanishing completely without ever addressing the issue is doing exactly what you are trying to avoid – hurting that person's feelings. In a 2012 study, researchers identified seven breakup strategies and then asked people to rate them from most to least ideal. “Ghosting” was overwhelmingly identified as the least ideal way to break it off with someone. Respond to strangers and acquaintances via text. Unless you've known this person for a long time or have already been dating them for several months, letting them down gently via text is not only acceptable but also preferable. The blow of rejection is softened by the neutrality of a text and allows the person to nurse their momentarily bruised ego in private. There is no reason to make physical contact with someone you don't know well just to turn them down. In some cases, such as when it comes to being approached online or by someone you work with that you rarely see and hardly know, even an email will suffice as a rejection. Respond to friends and co-workers in person. Anyone that you know personally or see every day, such as a friend or co-worker, deserves a face to face response. This will also make inevitable future encounters far less awkward. Delivering the news in person allows the other person to see your facial expressions/body language and hear the tone of your voice. Be firm and absolute. Avoid wavering and appearing indecisive, which can confuse the other person. If you're firm when you turn them down the first time, you probably won't have to have the conversation twice. An ambiguous reaction from you could make the person feel like they still have a chance, which wastes their time and isn't fair to them. It also increases the likelihood that you'll need to repeat this awkward conversation with them in the future. Speak kindly and directly. Approach them with a smile and keep your demeanor as calm and relaxed as possible. Use positive body language, such as sitting or standing up straight and looking the other person directly in the eye, to convey that you are serious. Negative body language, like slumping or not looking them in the eye, indicates a lack of confidence in your own words. Don’t offer false hope. If you truly aren't interested in dating this person, make that fact clear. Statements like “I'm too busy with work right now” or “I just got out of a long term relationship” may seem like kind responses, but to the other person this could sound more like, “Ask me again in a few weeks.” Avoid making it sound like there is a possibility for a future date, especially if you know there isn't. Move on. Don't continue to stay in contact with a person that you have zero plans to ever actually date. Sometimes it can feel good being around someone who you know really likes you, but unless you are serious about returning the sentiment, you are simply feeding your own ego by doing it. Don't re-initiate communication unless you're really interested. It can be tempting to reach out to someone who you've turned down in the past, especially if you are going through a rough patch yourself. Unless you are truly interested in the person, there is no need to call, text, or even be Facebook friends with them. The infamous drunk dial (or text) is a common way people end up re-initiating contact. A momentary lapse of judgement on your end can cause a lot of confusion and despair for someone else. You'll also be putting yourself in the position to have to reject them again. Avoid the friend-zone – unless you actually mean it. Do you really want to be friends, or are you just trying to spare the other person's feelings by saying so? If it's the latter, just don't say it. If you truly do want to remain friends, give the person some space after you reject them. Give them a chance to get past their bruised ego and embarrassment. It's possible that the other person may not feel capable of being friends because of their romantic feelings for you. If that's the case, you will have to respect that. Recognize that it’s okay to say no. No one enjoys hurting another person, but turning someone down doesn't make you a jerk or a bad person. It's completely normal and okay for you to say no. If you aren't attracted to someone in that way, you can't help that. Saying anything other than “no” is disrespectful to both of you. Stop feeling guilty. You aren't obligated to please everyone, and you should never agree to date someone because you feel guilty. Respect your own feelings about the situation and don't question yourself. Expressing guilt openly can really confuse the other person. If you are giving them an honest answer, apologies aren't necessary. Trust your gut. Maybe you aren't even sure why you are turning the person down, you just have a bad feeling about it or them. Trust that feeling. If something feels weird or off, it probably is. Don’t apologize. It's okay to say no and you have absolutely nothing to apologize for. You may even genuinely feel sorry, but expressing that out loud translates as pity and that you've somehow done something wrong by turning them down. | Express that you are flattered but not interested. Pause for a beat before you say no. Say as little as possible. Fib skillfully. Use “I” statements. End the conversation gracefully. Keep the matter private. Confront the issue. Give them a firm answer as soon as possible. Avoid “ghosting. Respond to strangers and acquaintances via text. Respond to friends and co-workers in person. Be firm and absolute. Speak kindly and directly. Don’t offer false hope. Move on. Avoid the friend-zone – unless you actually mean it. Recognize that it’s okay to say no. Stop feeling guilty. Trust your gut. Don’t apologize. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Poach-an-Egg-Using-a-Microwave | How to Poach an Egg Using a Microwave | To poach an egg in the microwave, add 1/2 cup of water to a microwave safe mug and then crack the egg into the mug. Ensure that the egg is fully submerged in water and, if it isn't, add another 1/4 cup of water. Then, place a microwave safe lid, like a small plate, on top of the mug and microwave the egg for 1 minute or until the whites are firm but the yolk is still runny. Use a slotted spoon or fork to remove the egg and enjoy! | Get a microwave safe mug and lid. Most plastic, glass, or ceramic mugs and lids will say “Microwave Safe” on the bottom. Use a mug and lid that specifically says microwave safe. Do not use metal materials or foil in the microwave. Fill the microwave safe mug with ½ cup of water. Using a measuring cup , measure out ½ cup of water. Pour the water into the mug. Crack the egg into the mug. Using the side of the mug, tap the egg firmly once or twice to break through the shell, taking care to not break the yolk. Pry open the egg halves, and let the egg fall into the mug of water and make sure to prick the yolk with a fork to prevent mess. Ensure the egg is completely submerged in water. If the egg is not submerged in water, use the measuring cup to add another ¼ cup of water. The egg should be submerged now. Microwave the egg on high for one minute. Place the mug in the microwave, and cover it with the microwave safe lid. Then, close the door and microwave the egg for one minute on high. Make sure the egg is cooked before serving it. Open the microwave door and remove the carefully lid. The egg white should be firm, but the yolk should still be runny. If the egg white still appears runny even after 1 minute, close the microwave door and add 15 seconds. Check the egg again, ensuring the egg white is not runny. Remove the egg with a slotted spoon and place on a plate. Now that the egg is done, remove the lid carefully, and remove the mug from the microwave. Use a slotted spoon to gently place the egg on a plate or in a bowl. Salt and pepper the egg to taste. Add a dash of salt and pepper to your perfectly poached egg. Serve as desired. | Get a microwave safe mug and lid. Fill the microwave safe mug with ½ cup of water. Crack the egg into the mug. Ensure the egg is completely submerged in water. Microwave the egg on high for one minute. Make sure the egg is cooked before serving it. Remove the egg with a slotted spoon and place on a plate. Salt and pepper the egg to taste. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Identify-a-Queen-Ant | How to Identify a Queen Ant | The easiest way to identify a queen ant is by looking at the ant's size and wings. Queens are much larger than regular worker ants and will look noticeably bigger than the others. Queens are also born with fairly large wings, and while some males have wings, they're much smaller. If you see a large, winged ant positioned at the center of an ant nest, it's very likely to be a queen! | Look at the size of the ant. For many types of ants, queens are much larger than regular worker ants. If you stumble upon an ant that appears unusually large, there's a good chance this is the queen. The ant will be noticeably bigger than the surrounding ants, or other ants you have seen. Think about the type of ants you have as well. With leaf-cutter ants, the queen is particularly likely to be bigger than the worker ants. However, with fire ants and carpenter ants, workers themselves come in many different sizes. This may make it difficult to differentiate between the queen and worker ants based on size alone. See if there are wings on the ant. In many ant colonies, the queen is born with wings. During many parts of a queen's adult life, she will need to fly to find a new colony for mating. An ant with wings may very well be the queen ant. Some male ants do have wings, but they tend to be slightly less noticeable. The types of male ants that have wings will generally look more slender and wasp like than a queen, who will generally be larger. Look for signs the ant has shed its wings. Queens do shed their wings at a certain point in their lifespan. If you lean down and look at the central portion of the ant's body, you may see small bumps jutting from either side of the ant's body. These are wing attachment points, a sign that the ant once had wings. As queens shed their wings, wing attachment points are a good sign you've found the queen. Examine the thorax. The thorax is the part of an ant's body that bridges the neck and abdomen. Queen ants will generally have a larger, bulkier thorax than worker ants. As a queen's thorax once supported wings, it will be much bulkier and more muscular than a worker ant's body. A queen's thorax makes up more than half its body size. This is much larger than the thorax of a regular ant. Think about the area where you found the ant. If you're unsure how to identify the queen by appearance alone, consider where you found the ant. Queens tend to be found at the center of an ant's nest. Queens tend to prefer moist areas, commonly found in rotting wood. If you found an ant hiding in a damp area of your home or outside, especially in damp wood, this is more likely to be a queen. Consider if you have army ants. The vast majority of ant types have larger queens, with bigger thoraxes, who are easily differentiated from worker ants. However, army ants are an exception. Army ants have queens with smaller thoraxes, who look very similar to the ants in this type of ant colony. It may be difficult,to identify the queen when working with these kinds of ants. Army ants are more oval-shaped in appearance than regular ants. They have antennas on their heads, as well as mouth pieces shaped like scissors. Consult a specialist. If you cannot find the queen, consult a professional exterminator. Ants can be a real problem in your home. If you're unable to discover the queen on your own, or identify the types of ants, look in your yellow pages for an exterminator. See if the other ants do things for the one you suspect is a queen. They might carry things to her or take orders from her. | Look at the size of the ant. See if there are wings on the ant. Look for signs the ant has shed its wings. Examine the thorax. Think about the area where you found the ant. Consider if you have army ants. Consult a specialist. See if the other ants do things for the one you suspect is a queen. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Report-Leash-Law-Violations | How to Report Leash Law Violations | To report leash law violations, call your city's or county's animal control department. Alternatively, you may be able to report violations online, depending on where you live. Keep in mind that animal control will need the name or address of the person you're reporting in order to reach out to them. You may also want to take pictures or videos of the animal off leash so you have evidence to give to animal control. | Find the phone number for animal control. You usually report leash law violations to your city or county's animal control department. You can find the number in your phone book or on the Internet. Search for “your city” and “animal control” in a search engine. Check if there is a fax number and email address available as well. Report by telephone. You should call the number provided and report the leash law violation. In some cities, you will call a general number, such as 3-1-1. Provide as much information as you can about the dog and the owner. Report online. Some governments might have online complaint forms that you can fill out. Maricopa county in Arizona, for example, allows you to report leash law violations online, provided you know the animal's owner. You will be prompted to provide the following information: your name and address your email your telephone number the location of the incident, including street address and major crossroads a description of the animal, including breed, size, color, and age any other relevant information Meet with an animal control officer. Animal control probably won't send someone out immediately to investigate. However, you should make yourself available to meet with the officer if requested. Share whatever documentary evidence you have of the violation. Read your local leash law. Your city or county government might publish its leash law. You can find it on the government website or by stopping into the town office and asking for a copy. Pay attention to what constitutes a violation of the law: Does the law apply to only dogs, or to dogs, cats, and other animals? How long does the leash have to be? Does the length of leash differ depending on the breed of the dog? Does the leash law cover only animals out for a walk, or does it also require that dogs be on leashes when in their yards? Can the owner install a physical or electronic fence instead of leashing the animal? Is there a designated off-leash park where people can take their dogs? Write down the name of the dog’s owner. If you see an unleashed animal in someone's yard, then note the address. If the person is out walking their dog off the leash, then check if you can identify the owner. Your animal control will need an address in order to reach out to the animal owner. Take pictures or video. This is fairly easy if the animal is left unleashed in its yard. Make sure that the date stamp on the picture or video reflects the actual date. However, be careful about taking video of a person, even in public. In many states, it is illegal to record someone's conversation without their permission. For this reason, you shouldn't videotape someone walking their unleashed dog in public since you might accidentally record a confidential conversation they are having with another person. Generally, you could still take pictures of someone in public space, such as a park or on the street. Document if the dog threatened you. The dog might have rushed you or, worse, actually bitten you. You should document any damage the unleashed dog has caused. You can bring a lawsuit for dog bites, if you are sufficiently injured. If a dog caused you to fall off a bicycle or crash your car, then document the injuries suffered. Get medical records and repair estimates. Also take vivid color photographs of your injuries. | Find the phone number for animal control. Report by telephone. Report online. Meet with an animal control officer. Read your local leash law. Write down the name of the dog’s owner. Take pictures or video. Document if the dog threatened you. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Hem | How to Hem | To sew a hem, start by folding 1/2 inch of the fabric to the inside of the garment. Then, fold your fabric inwards again to the width of the hem you want. Next, pin the hem in place, and use your sewing machine to create a straight stitch for a simple hem, or a zigzag stitch if you're working with stretchy fabric. Alternatively, sew the hem with a needle if you don't have a sewing machine. | Check your pattern for any special instructions. If you are following a sewing pattern, then it should include detailed instructions about how to hem your finished item. The instructions should also include guidelines for how wide the hem will need to be and how to achieve this result. If you are not using a pattern, then you might look into common hem widths for the type of project you are working on. For example, curtains usually have a 2 in (5.1 cm) wide hem, while sleeves may only have a hem that is 0.5 to 1 inch (1.3 to 2.5 cm) wide, and napkins may have hems that are small as 0.25 in (0.64 cm) wide. Find out how much fabric you will need before you cut and sew. If you are using a pattern, then the amount of fabric you need to create the hem should already be included. If you are making a project without a pattern, then add the hem allowance before you cut the fabric. For example, if you are making napkins and you want them to have a 0.25 in (0.64 cm) double-folded hem on all 4 sides, then add 1 in (2.5 cm) to the fabric dimensions. This would mean that to make a 16 by 16 in (41 by 41 cm) napkin, you would need to cut a piece of fabric that is 17 by 17 in (43 by 43 cm). Try on garments before creating the hem. If you want a perfect fit on garments you are sewing for yourself or for a friend, try the garment on and check the positioning of the hem before you sew it. Even if you are following a pattern, you may find that you want the hem a little higher or lower than the pattern indicates. Mark the fabric or place pins to indicate where you think the hem should begin and end. This may require adjusting the width of the hem if you have limited fabric. For example, if a pattern calls for 3 in (7.6 cm) wide hem on the bottom of a skirt, but you would like the hem to be lower, then you might need to reduce the width of the hem by 1 in (2.5 cm) and have a 2 in (5.1 cm) hem instead. Sew the hem last unless you are pleating a garment. Hemming should always be your last step when you are sewing something. The only exception to this would be if you are making a pleated skirt. In this case, you will need to hem the bottom of the skirt before you add the pleats. For example, if you are making a pleated skirt, sew the hem before you work on the waistband of the skirt. Then, make the pleats and secure them with the skirt's waistband. Make a 0.5 in (1.3 cm) fold along the raw edge of the fabric. Fold the fabric over towards the wrong (back) side, so that the raw edge of the fabric will be hidden on the back of the item when you are finished. The wrong (back) sides of the fabric should be together after this fold. You can make the first fold larger if you plan to do a wide hem, such as a 2 in (5.1 cm) hem. Make sure that the first fold is equal to or smaller than the desired hem width. If you plan to do a narrow hem, such as a 0.25 in (0.64 cm) wide hem, then your first fold should also be 0.25 in (0.64 cm). Fold the desired amount of fabric for the hem. You can make your hem as narrow or as wide as you like. This fold will hide the raw edge of the fabric. For example, you could make your hem 0.5 in (1.3 cm) wide for sleeves, or 3 in (7.6 cm) wide for pantlegs. Try folding the fabric over and checking to see what hem width looks best. Pin the hem in place. Insert pins perpendicular to the folded edge of the fabric. Space out the pins so that there is 1 every 2 to 3 in (5.1 to 7.6 cm) apart. Make sure that each pin goes all the way through the layers of fabric to secure the fold. Use ballpoint pins for delicate fabrics and knits. These pins will go in between the fibers rather than through them. You can pin the folds into place using straight pins or pins that have rounded ends to prevent them from going all the way through the fabric. Iron along the fold to crease the fabric if desired. If you want the edges of your hem to be crisp and flat, iron over the folded edges. Use the lowest setting on your iron to press the folded edges. You may also want to place a T-shirt or towel over the fabric to prevent it from getting damaged by the heat. Be careful not to iron over pins in the fabric. You may want to remove the pins in sections to avoid accidentally ironing over them. Select a thread type and color that will work for your project. You can use thread that matches your fabric if you want it to blend in, or go with thread that will contrast with the color of the fabric if you want it to stand out. For example, if you are sewing a hem on white fabric, then opt for white thread if you want the thread to blend in. If you are sewing a hem on pink fabric and want the thread to stand out, then you could opt for yellow, green, white, or black thread. Opt for a straight stitch for a simple hem. A straight stitch is a great choice for simple, functional hems. This is a great option for hemming sleeves, pants, skirts, napkins, and curtains. Sew the stitch so that it is about 0.25 in (0.64 cm) from the inner folded edge of the fabric. You may position the stitch closer or further from the fold if desired. This will depend on the size of your hem. For example, if you are making a 2 in (5.1 cm) hem, then you might position the stitch 0.5 in (1.3 cm) from the fold. Or, for a 0.25 in (0.64 cm) hem, you might sew 0.12 in (0.30 cm) from the fold Remove the pins as you sew. Do not sew over them or you may damage your sewing machine. Choose the zigzag stitch to hem stretchy fabric. If you are sewing a fabric that has some stretch to it, such as jersey, lycra, and other knit fabrics, try using the zigzag stitch. The zigzag stitch allows the fabric to stretch as needed and it is a standard stitch on sewing machines. The wider and longer the stitches are, the more visible they will be. Choose the setting that works best for your project. Try testing the zigzag stitch on a scrap of fabric to see how it looks and feels. Sew the hem by hand if you don’t want to use a sewing machine. Thread a needle with 18 inches (46 cm) of thread and pull it through the eye of the needle until half of the thread is on each side of the eye. Then, tie a knot to secure the ends of the thread. Insert the needle into the fabric going through all of the folded layers. Bring the needle all the way through the fabric and pull until the thread is taut. Make sure to keep the widths of the stitches even. You can space the stitches about 0.25 in (0.64 cm) or less apart. Continue to weave in and out of the fabric layers in a straight line along the inner folded edge. Keep going until your hem is secured. Then, tie a knot to secure the last stitch and cut the excess thread. | Check your pattern for any special instructions. Find out how much fabric you will need before you cut and sew. Try on garments before creating the hem. Sew the hem last unless you are pleating a garment. Make a 0.5 in (1.3 cm) fold along the raw edge of the fabric. Fold the desired amount of fabric for the hem. Pin the hem in place. Iron along the fold to crease the fabric if desired. Select a thread type and color that will work for your project. Opt for a straight stitch for a simple hem. Choose the zigzag stitch to hem stretchy fabric. Sew the hem by hand if you don’t want to use a sewing machine. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Sear-Steaks-on-the-Grill | How to Sear Steaks on the Grill | To sear steaks on the grill, let the steaks come to room temperature and season both sides liberally with salt and pepper. Next, place the grill grate 2-3 inches above the charcoals and coat the grate with nonstick cooking spray. Then, light the coals and let the temperature reach 500 degrees Fahrenheit. Finally, place the steaks on the grill rack and sear the first side for 1 1/2 minutes, flip them, and sear the other side for 1 1/2 minutes until they develop a crispy brown crust. | Place your steaks on a countertop or on a cool stovetop to allow them to come to room temperature. Keep them covered or inside their packaging until you are ready to cook them. When the steak is at room temperature, it can quickly get to high-heat on the grill. Leave it cold and the centers will take too long to cook. Coat both sides of the steak with with a liberal amount of salt and pepper. This will help you to create a crisper crust on the outside of your steak. Think of the salt as a light snow on a dark road -- you can still see the steak, but there is a light dusting on the entire piece of meat. Use the biggest grains of salt you can, such as course or kosher salt. Bigger grains dissolve slower, leading to a better crust on your steak. Know that the type of grill you have will slightly change the flavor of your steaks. Depending on your grill, you can get very different flavors from your steak: Propane (Sear Burner): Gas grills don't give much flavor to the meat, but they are easy to adjust and toy with to get the perfect heat. They also get hot much, much faster than other grills. Charcoal: The classic choice, charcoal briquettes light up and get hot faster than woodchips. They give the classic rich, smoky flavor to the steaks. Wood-fire: Hickory or oak chips often give the best flavor to the meat. The trade-off? They are harder to light and keep ablaze. You can also use a mixture of charcoal and wood instead of just wood-chips. Understand the theory behind a sear burner. A sear burner is a separate section of a gas grill that has an infrared plate to create extremely high temperatures. Sear your steaks on this burner and then move them to a cooler section of the grill to cook them through. You do not need to close the lid while the steaks are searing. Preheat the sear burner on your gas grill using the high setting. Preheat another burner on your gas grill at a medium setting. Coat the burners with nonstick cooking spray. Place 1 or 2 steaks on your sear burner. The quantity will depend on the size of your steaks and the size of your burner. Make sure that you have at least 2” (5 centimeters) of space between the pieces of meat so that they can cook evenly. Sear the steaks for 1-1/2 minutes on the first side. Flip the steaks over using a pair of tongs and sear them for an additional 1-1/2 minutes on the other side. Each side of the steaks should have a crisp, caramelized crust that is brown without being burnt. Place the steaks on your medium heat burner and close the lid so that they can continue to cook through. Use a meat thermometer to ensure that your steaks are cooked to the right temperature depending on your preference for doneness. Check for doneness using the palm test. You can use your own hand to check how done your steaks are, making sure you get it off perfectly each and every time. Simply press one finger into the steak and compare the feeling to various parts of your hand. To check doneness with your hand: Raw: Touch the fleshy part of your palm right underneath the thumb. It should have a lot of give. Well done: Touch your thumb and pinky together on the same hand. Then touch the fleshy part under your thumb with the opposite hand. It will be firm. Medium: Touch your thumb and ring finger together, then check the palm. It will be a little less firm. Medium Rare: Touch the thumb and middle fingers, then check the palm. Rare: Touch the thumb and pointer, then check the palm. Let the steaks stand before eating. Standing the meat refers to letting it sit, uncut, for 5-6 minutes. This allows the meat to reabsorb the juices and fats that liquefied in the high heat, and will lead to a juicier, better tasting steak every time. Get the cooking grate as close to the coals as possible. Placing the grate 2 to 3 inches above the coals will create high direct heat for searing your steaks. Make sure one section of the grate has no coals under it; that safe zone will stay cooler for cooking the interior of your steak. Place coals in the grill at least 2 layers deep. Position the grate so that it is 2 to 3 inches above the coals. Leave a safe zone with no coals for cooking the interior of the meat. Get the right heat for your preferred steak doneness. Aim to get the inside of the grill to 400°F if you have a grill thermometer. The thinner your steaks are, the hotter you want the grill. This is because you don't want to cook the inside of the steak before the outside is a nice, crispy brown: 1/2 inch thick: 425-450°F. You shouldn't be able to hold your hand over the grill for more than 3 seconds. 3/4-1 inch thick: 360-400°F You shouldn't be able to hold your hand over the grill for more 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 for more than 5-6 seconds. Coat the grate with nonstick cooking spray before you light the coals. Then, light the coals directly or light them using a charcoal starter. Allow the temperature to reach 500 degrees Fahrenheit (260 C) before placing the steaks on the grill. Place the steaks on the grill rack. The number of steaks that you can sear at one time will depend on both the size of your grill and the size of your steaks. Make sure that you leave at least a 2” (5 centimeter) clearance around the meat for even cooking. Cook the steak for 1-1/2 minutes before flipping it over using a pair of tongs. Cook the second side for 1-1/2 minutes. You should have a crispy brown crust on both sides of the meat. Move the steak to the cooler portion of the grill and cook it until it reaches your desired interior temperature. You can use your fingers to press on the steak and check it's doneness: Check for doneness using your palm as a guideline. You can use the fleshy part of your hand underneath the thumb to test out your steaks. To do so, simply press one finger into the center of the steak, then compare it against the following benchmarks. Raw: Touch the fleshy part of your palm right underneath the thumb. It should have a lot of give. Well done: Using the same hand, touch your thumb and pinky together. For comparison, touch the fleshy part under your thumb with the opposite hand, holding your thumb and pinky together. It will be firm. Medium: Touch your thumb and ring finger, then check underneath your thumb. It will be a little less firm than the well-done version. Medium Rare: Touch the thumb and middle together, then check your palm. Rare: Touch the thumb and pointer fingers, then check your palm. Let the meat stand for 5 minutes before cutting. If you cut into a hot steak right as it comes off the grill it will lose delicious juices. Resist the urge and place a piece of aluminum foil over the meat for 5 minutes or so, then dig in and enjoy. Finished. | Place your steaks on a countertop or on a cool stovetop to allow them to come to room temperature. Coat both sides of the steak with with a liberal amount of salt and pepper. Know that the type of grill you have will slightly change the flavor of your steaks. Understand the theory behind a sear burner. Preheat the sear burner on your gas grill using the high setting. Place 1 or 2 steaks on your sear burner. Sear the steaks for 1-1/2 minutes on the first side. Place the steaks on your medium heat burner and close the lid so that they can continue to cook through. Check for doneness using the palm test. Let the steaks stand before eating. Get the cooking grate as close to the coals as possible. Place coals in the grill at least 2 layers deep. Get the right heat for your preferred steak doneness. Coat the grate with nonstick cooking spray before you light the coals. Place the steaks on the grill rack. Cook the steak for 1-1/2 minutes before flipping it over using a pair of tongs. Move the steak to the cooler portion of the grill and cook it until it reaches your desired interior temperature. Check for doneness using your palm as a guideline. Let the meat stand for 5 minutes before cutting. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Your-Fish-Live-Longer | How to Make Your Fish Live Longer | To make your fish live longer, feed it regularly without overfeeding it, which you can do by making sure that there isn't any food left in the tank 5 minutes after feeding. Because overfeeding can cause your tank to dirty more quickly, maintain the cleanliness of your aquarium by using a scraper to clean algae off the sides, as well as a siphon to remove waste and other unsanitary leftovers from the bottom. Once every two weeks, you should also try to remove and replace 10 to 15% of the tank's water without removing your fish. To do so, treat the new water in a bucket separately, then scoop out a bucket of the old water and slowly cycle in the new water using your siphon. | Purchase an aquarium that can hold at least 20 gallons (75.7 L). While it might seem that a big tank would only mean more work, the opposite is the case. Small tanks get dirty quicker and thus require more regular maintenance. The larger your aquarium the better. It will keep your fish happier and save you energy. 20-gallon tanks are the minimum size you should consider and will be too small for many fish. Semi-aggressive fish, for example, need additional space to prevent fights. Consult with an expert about how much space your fish requires.. You might be required to assemble the aquarium. Follow the instructions on the box, because these will vary from tank to tank. Be sure that the tank comes with a lid. Many fish like to jump and can leap out of the aquarium if you aren't careful. You should also have a light that you leave on for approximately 12 hours a day and leave off the other half of the day. These come standard with most, but not all, aquariums. Purchase a heater and filter for your aquarium. These are important for keeping the aquarium at the appropriate temperature for your fish and for cleaning waste out of the water. There are many models for filters. It is principally important that you get one that is designed to a filter a tank as large as the one that you have picked out. You should also refrain from buying an undergravel filter if you are using a fine substrate, like sand. Certain types of fish can be hurt by gravel and require a sand substrate. A heater is especially important if you plan to keep tropical fish, because these prefer warm water. Purchase an appropriately sized tank stand. You will need to place your aquarium on something and most household items—desks and tables included—are not strong enough to accommodate a large tank. Unless you want to have a very expensive, fishy mess on your floor, you should buy a stand specifically designed for an aquarium of your size. Similarly, it is a very bad idea to leave the aquarium on the floor. This will all but inevitably lead an accident. Furthermore, you won't have much fun looking at your fish if they're on the ground. Find a safe location. A tank should be placed far away from places in the house that experience significant changes in temperature. These include areas near windows, air conditioners, radiators, and air vents. Similarly, keep the aquarium away from noise. Avoid locations near doors or in busy hallways. For your convenience, you should also pick a location is near a power plug and a water source. You probably also want sufficient space in the area to do work on the aquarium and to observe the tank. Buy water treatment supplies. Your water utility probably treats its water with chemicals like chlorine that are harmful to your fish. Purchase some testing kits to determine if the water is safe. As an aquarium owner you should always keep on hand a sodium thiosulfate solution to treat chlorine and Amquel to treat chloramine. For more information about the chemicals in your water supply, ask the local pet store owner or call your water utility. Put substrate and hiding places on the bottom of the aquarium. Gravel is a good, standard substrate to place on the bottom of your aquarium, though certain species might do best with sand. Tank decorations are also important for providing distraction for your fish, preventing conflict, and keeping your tank water well-maintained. Decorations are important to the health of your fish. Because most of your fish are naturally prey, if they do not have places to hide, they will be stressed. Aggressive fish, on the other hand, will be more likely to fight without clearly delineated territory. Decorations, therefore, are important to keeping your fish healthy and encouraging them to be active. Somewhere from 50-75% cover will be good for most fish. Fish will typically appreciate cover of any type, but some do have preferences. Fish from slow moving or static water will typically prefer soft, flexible cover like plants. Fish from the ocean or fast moving rivers tend to prefer large, hard objects. Place larger decorations toward the back and side of the tank. That way, the center of the tank won't be obscured from your sight. These decorations can also be used to cover up things like wires and other accessories that make the tank look less appealing. Fill the tank. Tap water is sufficient, though you will need to treat it. Fill the water nearly, though not all the way to the top of the tank. It is necessary to keep a layer of oxygen at the top of the aquarium. Cover the tank with a lid to prevent the fish from jumping out. Treat the water. You will probably want to add sodium thiosulfate and Amquel to the tank, and treat the tank for pH levels. A number of acids and bases can be purchased at the pet store to adjust the pH level in your tank. Test the level and adjust the pH until it is appropriate for your fish. Different fish prefer slightly different pH levels, so you should familiarize yourself with species specifications. Generally, however, somewhere from 6.8 to 7.8 is healthy for your fish. Cycle water for two weeks before introducing fish. After treating the water, you will want to give it sufficient time for its chemical composition to stabilize. During this period, monitor the water closely and treat if any of the readings suggest the water is inhospitable to your fish. Every couple of days do small water changes of approximately 10%. Continue to cycle the water at a rate of approximately 10% every couple of days for the first two weeks after introducing new fish. Verify that you are not overcrowding your aquarium. An overcrowded aquarium can become dirty. It can also encourage confrontation between fish. Unfortunately, there is no standard for determining when a tank is overcrowded, because space demands vary considerably with each individual species. Research your fish and consult with a professional. As a rule of thumb, a 20-gallon tank can probably accommodate three to four small fish or two medium-sized fish. Check that your fish are compatible. Some fish require different water temperatures or substrates. Be sure that any new fish you introduce are comfortable in the same water conditions. Similarly, some fish are aggressive and will have difficulty getting along with certain types of fish. Fish aggression is highly unpredictable. However, in general, aggressive fish are most likely to fight with other fish that look similar. That is because they will be perceived as a member of the same species and thus a rival during mating season. Allow new fish to acclimate to tank. You do not want to keep your fish in the bag provided by the pet store for more than a couple of hours, because it will rapidly accumulate waste and become unhealthy. However, if you have the time to spare, place the bag in the water for about 15 minutes to allow the fish to acclimate to the temperature of the tank. Afterward, dump out about 20% of the water in the bag, replace it with tank water, and leave the bag in the tank for another 15 minutes. Then gently put the fish in the tank. For more sensitive fish, you can repeat this process, replacing the water a couple of times, until the bag is predominately tank water. This will allow your fish to become accustomed to the temperature and chemical composition of the tank. Do not transfer any of the water from the bag into the aquarium. The water is dirty and will be unhealthy for your fish. Do not put in more than two fish at a time. It will take some time for your aquarium filter to adjust to the stress placed on it by the new fish. For the first two weeks after you introduce new fish, do regular checks of the water and cycle in new water at a rate of about 10% every couple of days. Feed regularly. How much and what you feed your fish will vary considerably from species to species. However, you should try to get your fish accustomed to being feed at specific times during the day. You have overfed your fish if, after five minutes, any food remains in the aquarium. Refrain from overfeeding because excess food will cause the aquarium to quickly become dirty. . Clean the tank Remove excess food daily and use a scrapper to clean algae off from the side of the tank. Be sure to clean the bottom of the tank with a siphon to remove waste and other unsanitary leftovers. There are a variety of specialized tools available at pet stores for performing these cleanings. Maintain the water. Check the water frequently for pH levels and other chemical imbalances. Keep chemical treatments on hand in case the water needs to be treated. Cycle water. Once every couple of weeks, you should remove and replace 10-15% of the water. Do not remove fish when changing the water. This will cause unnecessary stress. Treat new water before adding it to the tank. Use a siphon to slowly introduce the new water back into the tank. When replacing the water, put new water into a bucket that is not used for any other household tasks (cleaning products will introduce dangerous chemicals). Use this bucket as a space to test and treat the water as discussed previously. After it is treated, introduce the water into the tank. Watch for signs of illness. It is particularly important to watch for signs of illness with fish. That is because many fish diseases are highly communicable. Take precautions if you notice: Rubbing against objects in tank Duller coloration, changes in color pattern, and spotting Chewing on gills and fins Lethargy Holding fins tight against the body Bloating Gasping for air at the surface of the water Disappearance of mass in the fins or tail Maintain a quarantine tank. To prevent the spread of disease, it is useful to keep a smaller tank that sick fish can be quarantined in. Keep the fish quarantined until you have diagnosed and treated the disease. Visit the pet store. Most fish diseases can be treated with commercially produced anti-biotic and anti-fungal solutions. If you have been unable to determine the cause of the illness. Talk to the people at the pet store. They should be happy to offer recommendations. Clean the tank. To prevent further spread of illness, do everything you can to ensure that tank conditions are healthy. Clean out waste and food, check the pH, and cycle water. | Purchase an aquarium that can hold at least 20 gallons (75.7 L). Purchase a heater and filter for your aquarium. Purchase an appropriately sized tank stand. Find a safe location. Buy water treatment supplies. Put substrate and hiding places on the bottom of the aquarium. Fill the tank. Treat the water. Cycle water for two weeks before introducing fish. Verify that you are not overcrowding your aquarium. Check that your fish are compatible. Allow new fish to acclimate to tank. Do not put in more than two fish at a time. Feed regularly. . Maintain the water. Cycle water. Watch for signs of illness. Maintain a quarantine tank. Visit the pet store. Clean the tank. |
https://www.wikihow.health/Choose-a-Toothpaste | How to Choose a Toothpaste | To choose a toothpaste, start by checking the ingredients to confirm the toothpaste contains fluoride. Next, look for the American Dental Association (ADA) seal of approval on the packaging. Then, depending on your particular needs, you can look for specific products that whiten teeth, target tartar buildup, or freshen breath. Finally, consider the flavor and texture and go with a toothpaste that appeals to you. | Check for fluoride. It's important that your toothpaste contains fluoride, as it helps strengthen the enamel of your teeth. Your enamel is under constant attack from acids, and fluoride remineralizes the entire structure. Make sure fluoride is an ingredient in any toothpaste you buy. It should be 1,000 parts per million in your toothpaste. Fluoride is particularly important for diabetics, as it helps remove plaque. Because having infection in the mouth can be dangerous to a diabetic, it's important to keep your mouth, gums, and teeth as healthy as possible. Consider adding a 30-second rinse with an antibacterial mouthwash to ensure oral health. Look for the seal of approval. It's best to pick a toothpaste approved by the American Dental Association (ADA), as they make sure each product with their seal meets certain standards. The toothpaste packaging will have the ADA logo on it if it is approved by this organization. Pick one designed for children. When you are looking for a toothpaste for your child, it's important to pick one designed specifically for them. Children are more likely to swallow toothpaste, and children's toothpastes often don't contain sodium lauryl sulfate, which shouldn't be swallowed. Plus, adult toothpastes are harsher on enamel, so they shouldn't be used on children's teeth. Buy a toothpaste for sensitive teeth if you need it. If you have sensitive teeth, it can help to purchase a toothpaste designed to help combat that problem. It should say on the label that it is meant for sensitive teeth. You may not notice results right away, so make sure you use it for a little while before you decide it doesn't work. Ask your doctor about prescription-strength. If you try an over-the-counter toothpaste for sensitive teeth, you may find after a while that it doesn't work for you. If that's the case, your dentist can prescribe you a stronger version. Keep in mind, though, that the prescription variety may be more expensive. A good toothpaste for sensitive teeth should feel sticky an harder the remove than your usual toothpaste. It helps minerals to stay on your tooth surface for a longer time, delivering an increased remineralizing effect. Pick whitening toothpastes to remove stains. Some toothpastes do help to whiten teeth. If your teeth have been stained by what you eat and drink, you may want to try a whitening toothpaste. These toothpastes generally use abrasives to remove stains from the surface of your teeth. Look for one that says "whitens teeth" or "whitening." However, whitening toothpastes can be damaging when used over long periods of time. In fact, they can contribute to sensitivity and the breaking down of your enamel, especially if you use a lot of pressure when brushing with a hard bristle toothbrush. Ask your dentist about how long it's safe for you to use a whitening toothpaste. Buy toothpaste to reduce tartar buildup. Another option when it comes to toothpastes is to buy one that reduces tartar buildup. If that's your goal, pick one that has pyrophosphates as an ingredient. This ingredient is known to help reduce the build up of tartar over time. Choose organic for more natural ingredients. On the upside, organic toothpastes stick to more natural ingredients, which can be healthier for your mouth (though not necessarily); however, they also usually don't contain fluoride, which most dentists agree is important for dental health. Some natural toothpastes contain salt, which is also abrasive, so you need to be gentle when brushing. Decide by choosing your favorite flavor. Once you satisfy the other requirements, it's really up to you what you flavor you choose. In fact, it's important to pick one with a flavor you like, as that will encourage you to brush your teeth more often, so go with what tickles your taste buds. Taste is especially important in kids' toothpastes, as they will be more enthusiastic about brushing if the toothpaste is in a fun flavor they like, such as bubble gum or strawberry. Just make sure they understand they must not eat or swallow the toothpaste. Pick a texture you like. Texture really doesn't matter all that much in terms of how it cleans your teeth, so it's up to you whether you pick a paste, gel, or liquid. Paste and gels do make it somewhat easier to brush, as they cling better to your toothbrush and teeth. Look for one that freshens breath. If bad breath is a problem for you, pick one that can help freshen your breath. It should be labeled as such on the package. Usually, these toothpastes have ingredients that can make your breath less smelly by covering up bad odors, or they fight the bacteria that cause bad breath. | Check for fluoride. Look for the seal of approval. Pick one designed for children. Buy a toothpaste for sensitive teeth if you need it. Pick whitening toothpastes to remove stains. Buy toothpaste to reduce tartar buildup. Choose organic for more natural ingredients. Decide by choosing your favorite flavor. Pick a texture you like. Look for one that freshens breath. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Certified-Personal-Trainer | How to Become a Certified Personal Trainer | To become a certified personal trainer, you have to be at least 18 and have graduated from high school or earned a GED. Then, attend a university to get a degree in Kinesiology or Sports Education for a well-rounded education. Alternatively, you can apply for just a certification program, which is more flexible and takes less time. After you pick your program, follow a strict study routine to stay on track and make sure you practice what you're learning by doing the exercises. | Check your prerequisites. Although going into a certification program doesn't require any prior education in fitness, there are some requirements that must be completed. You must be at least 18 years of age. You must have completed and passed a CPR class. You must have a high school diploma or GED. Choose between formal school and certification. Many colleges and universities offer degrees in kinesiology, sports and fitness education, and exercise science. Getting a full degree in any of these requires several years, but gives you a comprehensive understanding of personal training and fitness. Choosing a certification program requires studying alone on your own time from a textbook, but is much more flexible and takes ¼ of the time a college degree does to complete. Decide on a certification organization. When studying to get certified, you must register with a particular certification group. There are many groups to choose from, all with different study requirements and payments. Just be sure that whatever group you choose is certified by NCCA. ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine) has certification programs in physical training and group exercise instructors as well as clinical training certifications. Their most basic course costs $355 for ACSM members or $415 for non-members including textbooks and testing. Their program is a work-at-your-own-pace certification, and allows you to choose your own test date based on your personal time requirements. ACE (American Council of Exercise) goes by the motto that they may not be the cheapest or the fastest certification program, but that they are the best. They are also the largest personal training organization in the world. They offer three personal training certification options: Standard at $499, premium at $599, and premium plus at $699. The NSCA (National Strength and Conditioning Association) offers specialized certifications in strength and conditioning in addition to personal training certification. Their program costs $270 for the members and $405 for non-members. NASM (National Academy of Sports Medicine) has the most expensive but arguably most inclusive personal training certification. They offer your textbooks, testing (plus one free retake), live workshops, and a 90-day job guarantee for $1,199. For a charge of $1,999 you can get all of the aforementioned benefits with the addition of associate personal training experience. Choose your work venue. Depending on what you hope to do with your personal training certification, your requirements may change. If you plan on working in a gym or spa, check with those places to see what they require employees to have. Working out of your own home or through a small business may give you more freedom and lenience in terms of what education is expected. In Canada Canadian Fitness Education Services (CFES) certification has been developed as an alternative choice for fitness instructors and personal trainers wanting to join others in the development of more comprehensive, academically credible and practical fitness leadership certification standards; have a national network of fitness professionals connecting with industry peers; and to advance career credentials. Study hard. Most certifications require that you work from home, studying from a textbook. Although these are typically work-at-your-own-pace, they do have time limits. Usually, you are given between one month to one year to complete your studying. Set up a strict study routine. This will help keep you from slacking off and promote better learning behaviors. You are more likely to remember what you study if you do so over an extended period of time rather than just cramming at the last minute. Test yourself periodically. Some textbooks come with quizzes and tests, so be sure to do them to see how well you are progressing. If they do not, make flash cards covering the material and have a friend quiz you with them. Practice what you're learning. Studying physical education isn't nearly as helpful if you aren't physically engaging in the activities. Include time in your study schedule to practice the exercises and training that you've been learning about to ensure your complete understanding of them. Take the test. Some programs have writing centers that you must visit in order to test, while others offer online testing. Research each program to find out what you must do in order to test. If you fail the test, you can typically retake it for a fee ranging from $150-$200. Maintain your certification. Once you've gotten your certification, you must keep it maintained by ongoing studying and learning. Physical education is constantly evolving, so you must be sure that you evolve with it. Some programs require annual re-testing, while others only need proof that you've taken certain online classes or visited personal training seminars. Develop your own training routine. Acknowledge your personal strengths in training and promote those. Work in your areas of expertise and develop training routines around them. This will help employers to not only see you working at your strongest but place you with people who need help in those areas as well. Specialize your certification further. Look into specialty training in personal fitness such as work in weightlifting/strength training, work with certain specialized machines and yoga. These will not only help you to learn more but make you more appealing as a personal trainer to others. Try group fitness. If you find that you enjoy personal training, teaching classes to a group may be of interest to you as well. Many gyms don't require extra certification to teach group classes, so it is easy to make this the next step. Some popular classes you might consider include spin/cycling, Zumba/dance, and different cardio workouts. Start your own business. Although it may seem daunting, starting your own personal training business can be rewarding and help you to grow as a trainer. Look into the business requirements in your area and talk to local personal trainers for advice for your venture. | Check your prerequisites. Choose between formal school and certification. Decide on a certification organization. Choose your work venue. Study hard. Take the test. Maintain your certification. Develop your own training routine. Specialize your certification further. Try group fitness. Start your own business. |
https://www.wikihow.life/Tie-a-Bow | How to Tie a Bow | To tie a bow, start by tying a knot in the center of a piece of ribbon or string. If you're tying the bow around a package, wrap it around the package first and then tie the knot. Next, make a loop with the ribbon to the left of the knot. Then, make a second loop with the ribbon to the right of the knot and tie the 2 loops together like you would if you were tying your shoes. Finally, tighten the bow and adjust the 2 loops so they're the same size. | Start with a knotted ribbon or string. The technique for tying a basic bow is the same no matter what type of ribbon you use and for what purpose you are using it. You just need a ribbon with a left end and a right end stemming from the same knotted center. If you're tying a bow on the top of a package, loop the ribbon under the package, bring the ends together over the package and knot the two ends together so the ends are equal in length. You now have a right side and a left side to work with. You can tie a bow from a piece of ribbon that isn't attached to a package. Tie a knot in the center of the ribbon so the left and right sides are equal in length. Make a loop with the left side of the ribbon. Pinch the loop between your thumb and forefinger to hold it in place. If you're tying a ribbon, make sure that it isn't twisted; the loop should be smooth. Make a second loop. This time bring the right side of the ribbon around and under the left loop. Pull it through until you have a second loop of the exact same size. Use the same technique you use when you tie your shoes. Tighten the bow. Pull on the loops to tighten the knot at their center. Make sure the two loops are the same size and that the ends are even in length. The bow is complete. Start with a long piece of ribbon. For this bow, cut a piece of ribbon about 12 inches (30.5 cm) long. Leave it straight and unknotted. Make a loop near the left end of the bow. Start about three inches from the end of the bow and make a loop. Hold it in place with your thumb and forefinger. Loop the right end over the loop to create a second loop. The ribbon should now look like a backwards "S" with a tail at either end. Hold the loops with one hand so they don't come undone. Continue looping the ribbon. Loop the remaining length of ribbon accordion style, so that you have a pile of loops with two ends of equal length sticking out from either side. Cinch the center. Use a piece of florist wire or a thin string to tie the loops together at the center, dividing them in two. You now have a pile of loops on the right side of the cinch and a pile of loops on the left side. Fluff the loops. Separate the loops and fluff them up so that the cinched center is no longer visible. Use a scissors to clip the ends into inverted "v" shapes for a professional touch. Wrap a piece of ribbon around your hand. Hold the end against your palm with your thumb, and continue wrapping the ribbon until the entire piece has been wrapped. Each loop around your hand should be neatly placed on top of the previous loop. Slip the ribbon loops off of your hand and fold them in half. Be careful not to let the loops come undone when you slip them off. Cut the cinch. Hold the folded loop in one hand so that the center folded part is facing up. With the other hand, use a scissors to cut the corner off of either side of the cinch, the folded middle. Make sure you cut through all of the ribbon layers. Use a careful, firm snip of the scissors to ensure the cut is even and none of the layers slip. Don't cut the two corners too close to the center of the ribbon. Use a second ribbon to tie the cinch. Fit the second ribbon between the notches you cut in the middle of the loops and tie a knot there. You can also use florist wire or a small string. Fan out the loops. Separate the loops one by one from the inside to the outside. Pull the loops gently from the center and twist them toward you. Arrange the loops so that they form a petal-like circular pattern. The floral bow is now complete. Finished. | Start with a knotted ribbon or string. Make a loop with the left side of the ribbon. Make a second loop. Tighten the bow. Start with a long piece of ribbon. Make a loop near the left end of the bow. Loop the right end over the loop to create a second loop. Continue looping the ribbon. Cinch the center. Fluff the loops. Wrap a piece of ribbon around your hand. Slip the ribbon loops off of your hand and fold them in half. Cut the cinch. Use a second ribbon to tie the cinch. Fan out the loops. Finished. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Dishwasher-with-Bleach | How to Clean a Dishwasher with Bleach | To clean a dishwasher with bleach, dilute a small amount of bleach in a spray bottle of warm water. Open the dishwasher and remove any dishes or racks that are inside, then use a thin wire or pin to clear out the holes in the spinning arms of the dishwasher and clean out any debris from the drain. Spray the inside of the dishwasher with the bleach solution, including the lip of the door, the sides, and the basin. Wipe it all down with a cloth, then dry it with a clean rag. Finish by cleaning the outside of the door. | Wear the proper safety gear. When handling liquid bleach, it's important that you wear thick rubber gloves and a facemask. Bleach can damage your skin, nose, eyes, and mouth so keep it away from your face while you're cleaning. Take the proper safety precautions. You'll want to make sure that you never mix liquid bleach with other household cleaning products like ammonia, vinegar, or rubbing alcohol. Only use cold or warm water when cleaning with bleach. If you mix bleach with the wrong cleaning product, it can create dangerous noxious fumes. Fill a spray bottle with warm water. Fill up a spray bottle with a quart of warm water. Do not mix bleach with boiling water because it can release a dangerous gas. Get water from the tap and test it with your finger to make sure that it's lukewarm. Add chlorine bleach to the bottle. Carefully measure out ¾ of a teaspoon (1.64 ml) of chlorine bleach and pour it into the top of the spray bottle. Once you add the bleach, shake the bottle to mix the solution together. The cleaning solution is now ready to be used for the interior and exterior of your dishwasher. Remove all dishes and racks from the dishwasher. Remove your dishes after you run a cycle and put them to the side. If you want to thoroughly clean your dishwasher, you'll also have to remove the plate racks. Typically these will slide out if you pull them towards you. Clear out the holes in the spinning arms of the dishwasher. The arms on the bottom of your washer have holes on them where the water comes out. When these get clogged, your dishwasher doesn't work as efficiently. Use a thin wire hanger or pin to make sure that these holes are clear of debris. Poke the holes with the thin object to remove any obstructions. The spinning arms at the bottom of the dishwasher and spray water onto the dishes when you run the cycle. Clean around the side and lip of the door. The side and lip of your dishwasher are prone to getting dirty. Open the dishwasher door and spray the bleach and water solution onto the plastic lip and side of the door. Wipe the solution dry with a dry cotton towel once you're done. Use a cotton swab or toothbrush to get to smaller areas that you can't reach. Remove any obstructions from the drain. The drain flushes out pieces of food during a wash cycle. Usually, the drain is in the bottom basin of your washer. Remove any built up debris that's been caught up in the drain with your hand. Food built up in your dishwasher's filter will make it run less efficiently. Wash down the basin of the dishwasher. Spray down the inside of your dishwasher with your bleach solution. Go in circular motions to wipe down the interior of the washer. Use a clean rag to wipe it dry. Spray and wash down the door and buttons. Remember to spray down the handles on the front of your dishwasher to get them saturated in the bleach and water solution. Use a damp sponge or rag to wipe down the door and buttons thoroughly. Once you finish, use a cloth or rag to dry down the exterior of your dishwasher. Ensure that your dishwasher isn't made with stainless steel. Bleach can corrode and discolor stainless steel. You should not use liquid bleach if you are cleaning a stainless steel dishwasher. Place a cup of liquid bleach on the top rack. Use a measuring cup to measure out exactly a cup of liquid bleach. Transfer the bleach into a bowl or a glass and place it in the top of your dishwasher. Once you're done, close the dishwasher door. Run your dishwasher on the highest heat. Run a full cycle on the highest heat setting. The bleach will be tossed throughout the interior of your washing machine during the cycle. This will remove any mold or mildew on the inside of your dishwasher. | Wear the proper safety gear. Take the proper safety precautions. Fill a spray bottle with warm water. Add chlorine bleach to the bottle. Remove all dishes and racks from the dishwasher. Clear out the holes in the spinning arms of the dishwasher. Clean around the side and lip of the door. Remove any obstructions from the drain. Wash down the basin of the dishwasher. Spray and wash down the door and buttons. Ensure that your dishwasher isn't made with stainless steel. Place a cup of liquid bleach on the top rack. Run your dishwasher on the highest heat. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Draw-a-Human-Heart | How to Draw a Human Heart | To draw a human heart, first draw what looks like the lower half of an acorn that's missing its cap. This will be the outline of the left and right ventricles. Draw a rounded bump on the top left half of the acorn shape, which will be the right atrium. Then, sketch a forked tube coming off the top of the rounded bump. This will be the superior vena cava, which is what blood enters the right atrium through. From there, draw an upside-down U-shaped tube next to the first tube you drew with three smaller tubes coming off the top of it for the aorta. Next, draw another tube extending off the top of the acorn shape right underneath the upside-down U-shaped tube you drew. This will be the tubular pulmonary artery. Finally, shade in your drawing and add veins to make it more realistic. You can also color in your drawing with red and some touches of blue. | Draw the lower half of an acorn shape so it's tilted to the left. Use your pen or pencil to start drawing the main part of the heart. This should look like an open-ended acorn that's missing its cap. Draw the shape so it's tilted about 120 degrees to the left. The main shape will be the basis for the left and right ventricles. Although you can draw this freehand, you could lightly sketch a right triangle with the right angle in the upper right corner. Make an oval that touches each point of the triangle. Then, draw the main part of the heart within them. Make a rounded bump at the top of the heart for the right atrium. Draw a half-circle or bump that extends from the top left corner of the heart. It should be about 1/3 the size of the heart's body and come about halfway across the top of the heart. This will be the right atrium chamber. The right and left sides of the heart may look switched, but that's because you're drawing the heart from the opposite direction. If you like, draw a line between this bump and the main part of the heart. This line that runs horizontally can represent the tricuspid valve that separates the right atrium and ventricle. Sketch a forked tube extending from the top of the rounded bump. To make the superior vena cava, draw a tube coming from the top of the right atrium. Make the tube fork about the same length as the bump you made for the right atrium chamber. Blood enters the right atrium through the superior vena cava. Draw the rounded aorta tube next to the bump. You'll need to sketch an upside-down U-shaped tube that nestles next to the tubular vena cava that you drew. It should extend down into the left ventricle. Make the aorta wider than the vena cava. Sketch the tubular pulmonary artery going under and over the aorta. Start drawing a tube directly below the aorta's curve so it fills the gap. This pulmonary artery should start at the top of the main heart segment and branch off in 2 directions. Make 1 of the smaller tubes branch off and go under the aorta to the left while the other tube goes over the aorta to the right. Each of these tubes should fill the space between the aorta. You'll probably need to erase a little part of the aorta where the left tube of the pulmonary artery passes over it. Go back and draw small gaps between the tubes. Now that you've drawn all the main features of the human heart, you'll need to draw small curved lines to show gaps between segments. For example, make a tiny curve between the aorta and pulmonary artery tubes. Consider drawing a tube extending down from the bottom of the heart on the left side. This can be the inferior vena cava. Simplify the details for a cartoon-style human heart. Instead of filling in lots of small veins or details, take a large black pen or marker and go around the outline of each heart segment. This will make them stand out so they're easier to color in if you like. For an even more basic heart drawing, just draw the boundaries of the heart, but don't draw the main arteries or large veins. Use markers or crayons if you'd like to make the heart colorful. To draw in the heart as though it were a coloring page, use bright crayons, markers, or colored pencils. Then, fill in each part of the heart with a different color so they stand out. Shade in veins and details to make a hyper-realistic heart. Use a fine black ink pen to show depth and fill in spaces between parts of the heart. Then, use charcoal or a pencil to shade or cross-hatch so each part looks three dimensional. To determine which parts of the heart to make the darkest, decide where you'd like to make shadows and light appear. For example, shade the lower half of the heart and make the upper segments lighter. If you'd like to make a colorful heart instead of leaving it black and white, you could use burgundy or dark rusty red to fill in the darkest spaces of the heart. Label the parts of the heart if you'd to reference it for anatomy. If you're trying to identify parts of the heart for a class you're taking, it's good practice to draw the heart yourself and label each segment. You can refer to your textbook in order to label the: Aorta Superior vena cava Inferior vena cava Right and left atria Right and left ventricles Pulmonary veins and arteries Make small arrows that show the flow of blood for another study aid. If you're learning about how blood circulates through the body and the heart, draw tiny arrows within the heart's segments. Consult your anatomy book to draw arrows that show where the blood enters the heart, the valves it moves through, and the direction it exits the heart. Consider making the arrows for deoxygenated blood blue and oxygenated blood red. At its simplest, the blood flows into the right atrium, through the right ventricle, and through the pulmonary valve to the lungs. The left atrium gets blood from the lungs and it flows to the left ventricle before going through the aorta to the rest of the body. | Draw the lower half of an acorn shape so it's tilted to the left. Make a rounded bump at the top of the heart for the right atrium. Sketch a forked tube extending from the top of the rounded bump. Draw the rounded aorta tube next to the bump. Sketch the tubular pulmonary artery going under and over the aorta. Go back and draw small gaps between the tubes. Simplify the details for a cartoon-style human heart. Use markers or crayons if you'd like to make the heart colorful. Shade in veins and details to make a hyper-realistic heart. Label the parts of the heart if you'd to reference it for anatomy. Make small arrows that show the flow of blood for another study aid. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-and-Maintain-a-Healthy-Lawn | How to Get and Maintain a Healthy Lawn | To get and maintain a healthy lawn, make sure to choose a type of grass that will do well in your climate. After you've planted your new lawn, water it once or twice a week for longer periods of time, rather than every day, to help the grass establish healthy roots. Aim to water 1–2 inches per week, depending on how hot it is and the type of grass. You can also keep your grass healthy by fertilizing it once a year using a nitrogen rich fertilizer. | Prepare the area for planting. If you haven't installed your lawn yet, read our detailed guide , or follow this basic checklist to get started: Remove old grass and weeds using a grape hoe or sod cutter. If necessary, apply glyphosate or another broadleaf herbicide to remove these weeds. Follow label instructions and wait the required time after applying before breaking and prepping the soil. Grade your soil to a 1 or 2% slope running away from buildings. Perform a soil test or send soil samples to a local university extension or a garden center that offers soil testing services. Improve soil if necessary based on soil test results, then gently rake in starter fertilizer. Water the soil and let settle for one week. Fill a garden roller ⅓ full of water and roll lightly over the soil. Choose your grass. Take your time selecting a grass species. Lawn care will be much easier if the grass is suited to your climate, soil type, and use patterns. Research the specific species, not just "cool season" or "warm season" grass. You'll also choose between seed and sod (turf). Seed is cheaper and easier to install, but can take months to become usable. Pick sod if you want a lawn sooner, and are willing to spend the time and effort. Sod should be moist, with no dry or cracked areas. Install the new lawn. Break up the lawn into sections to make this task more manageable. Follow these instructions: To plant seeds: Using a lawn spreader, sow half the seeds walking in parallel rows. Sow the other half in rows at right angles to the first rows. Lightly rake ⅛ inch (3 mm) of soil over the seeds. To install sod: Remove a few inches of soil, so the new sod will end up level with the surrounding area. Lay the sod end to end in staggered rows, as though laying bricks. Trim edges to fit with a utility knife. Water the new lawn. Follow these guidelines to keep a new lawn healthy: Seeds: Water right after sowing, lightly to avoid washing away the seeds. Repeat every other day or as often as needed to keep the soil moist, as seeds may die when dried out. This danger has passed once the seed has germinated and grass blades appear, usually about 10–14 days after planting. Sod: Water well after installing, then use a full lawn roller to compact the sod against the soil base. From then on, water in the early morning 10 days. Water heavily enough to wet the soil underneath the sod, but avoid overwatering that can lift the sod rolls up from the soil. Stay off the new lawn. Avoid walking on new sod for the first week after installation, and go easy on it for the first month. Seed takes longer to become established. Stay off it until blades appear, then use as lightly as possible for six months. Once a seed-grown lawn reaches a height of 2–3 inch (5–7.5cm), roll it with an empty garden roller. Do not mow a seed-grown lawn until it is 3 or 4 inches (7.5–10cm) tall, then mow no more than ½ inch (1.25 cm) every few days until the lawn is healthy and well-established. Water occasionally but deeply. Deep roots keep your lawn healthy and lush. Promote root growth by watering heavily, then letting the top 2 inches (5cm) of soil dry out before watering again. The exact amount of water per week depends on the grass variety and weather. A good rule of thumb for the growing season is 1–1.5 inches (2.5–3.25 cm) of water per week, rising to 2 inches (5cm) during hot, dry weather. Water in late evening or early morning to reduce water loss from evaporation. To find out how many inches of water your sprinkler uses, set up open containers around your yard. Run the sprinklers for 20 minutes, then measure the depth of water in each can. Multiply the average depth by three to find the inches per hour. Let your lawn grow dormant (optional). Many grass species survive hot, dry summers by going dormant. Their leaves turn brown, but the parts undergrounds stay alive for months. If your lawn wilts and turns brown no matter how much you water it, letting it go dormant can be healthier than repeatedly rescuing it from the brink. Most dormant grass does not need watering. If the soil is extremely dry or the grass species does not do well in hot weather, give the lawn 0.25–0.5 inches (6–12mm) water every 2–4 weeks. Mow at the highest setting on your mower. Cutting grass to a tall height (around 3 ⁄ 2 to 4 inches (8.9 to 10.2 cm)) is important for lawn health, especially during summer heat. Taller grass shades the ground, which blocks weed sprouts and promotes beneficial microbes. Leaving the grass tall also allows your lawn to focus on root growth, which adds disease resistance. Leave the grass clippings on the lawn after mowing to return the nutrients to your lawn. Do not mow within a week of planting new grass. The grass will not have time to grow deep enough roots and can be pulled up by the mower. Never mow a wet lawn. The slippery grass could cause an accident, and some mowers will not work as efficiently. Sharpen your mower blade after about 10 hours of mowing, or if fresh-mowed grass looks ragged with brown tips. If you hate the look of a tall lawn, you may reduce the height as low as 2 inches (5cm). Some grass species handle this better than others, but all prefer 3 inches (7.5cm) or above. Never remove more than ⅓ of the grass height at a time. You may need to cut some lawns every two or three days in spring to keep it at the right height. Mow in a different direction or pattern than your last mow to help the grass grow more evenly. Choose a fertilizer. The three numbers on the fertilizer bag tell you the percentage of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, in that order. Nitrogen is the most important for your lawn, and should be higher than the other two (a 3:1:2 ratio is ideal). Avoid numbers higher than 10, since these can easily burn your lawn. Ideally, choose a mixture of 30–50% slow-release fertilizer and 70–50% fast release fertilizer. This gives the lawn an instant boost, but still slowly adds more nutrients over the next few weeks. Organic fertilizers are better than synthetic fertilizers, since they improve soil health as well. Fertilize your lawn. If you don't have a fertilizer spreader, rent one from a tool rental company. A drop spreader works best for small lawns. A broadcast (rotary) spreader saves time when fertilizing large lawns, but must be kept away from lawn edges, water sources, and vegetable and flower gardens to avoid pollution. Follow instructions on the spreader and your fertilizer packaging to apply 1 lb of nitrogen over every 1,000 square feet of lawn (0.5 kg / 100 m ). Do this once a year, preferable in late fall when the cool weather promotes root growth instead of leggy growth. To avoid stripes of uneven color, set the spreader to ½ the recommended setting and walk over the lawn twice, in two sets of rows at right angles to each other. Put on gloves and hand spread fertilizer in corners, edges and small, tight areas to avoid spreading fertilizer outside the lawn. If you want the perfect lawn, you may fertilize three or four times per growing season. It's easy to burn your lawn or cause excessive quick growth with this strategy. For best results, contact a local university extension for advice specific to your climate. Aerate your yard in fall or spring. Annual de-thatching and aeration is very important for the health of your lawn. Once a year, remove plugs of soil using a lawn aerator with ½ in (1.25 cm) diameter tines. Remove them to a depth of 3 inches (7.5cm), passing over the lawn until you have about 8 plugs per square foot (88 per square meter). This fights soil compaction, disease, and thatch buildup. Aerate while the soil is on the dry side, but just wet enough to allow the tines to penetrate. Deal with water runoff. If water runs off the lawn, you likely have clay soil or a steep slope. Give the lawn half as much water as usual, wait one hour for water to drain, then give it the other half. Stick to this system for all areas where runoff is an issue. Heavy clay soils require even deeper and less frequent watering than a normal lawn. Aerating your lawn can help if your soil feels dense and compacted.. Respond to drying lawns. If your lawn wilts; turns a little grey, purple, or blue; or holds the impression of footprints, it's on the dry side. Increase the amount of water you give it each session. Dry lawns can also be caused by sandy soil, which drains too quickly for the lawn to absorb the water. Water sandy areas more often to make up for this, with less water per session. Fight weeds. The best way to fight weeds is to maintain a good, thick and healthy turf with its own natural defenses. Most weeds can be treated with basic changes to your lawn care , such as a higher mowing height or a change in watering schedule. If weeds are still a problem, pull them by hand and seek advice from local gardeners and university extensions. Chemical herbicides should be a last resort due to the risks of pollution and damage to surrounding plants. If you decide to use an herbicide, always follow the label instructions exactly. Following local advice tailored to specific weeds will give best results. When choosing an herbicide for an existing weed problem, choose a postemergence herbicide. Selective herbicides kill specific species, while nonspecific herbicides will kill your lawn as well and must be applied very precisely. If you use a lawn spreader or other equipment to spread herbicide, traces may remain on the equipment and spread to other areas of the garden. Fight insects and other pests. If lawn grubs, beetles, or other pests are eating your lawn, the best approach is usually a change to your lawn care. A local university extension can help you fight pests local to your area — and tell you which pests are actually harming your lawn. Pesticides and insecticides should be a last resort only, as they can kill beneficial soil microbes and earthworms. If you do decide to use them, follow label instructions exactly. Pesticides can also be dangerous for the person applying them. Wear protective equipment as instructed by the label. After application, wash your skin and clothing thoroughly before eating, drinking, or smoking. Prevent thatch buildup. Thatch, the spongy layer of brown material atop the soil, can cause issues if allowed to grow past 0.5 inch (1.25cm) thick. Rent a thatch removal machine to break it apart, and leave the thatch to decompose on the lawn. Once the thatch is gone, topdress the lawn with a sprinkle of soil — but always use the same soil the lawn was planted in. Remove the thatch in early fall or very early spring only. Do not remove thatch less than 0.5 inches (1.25 cm) thick. Thatch buildup can also be caused by poor drainage. Aerating the soil as described above can help. Contrary to popular belief, grass clippings do not contribute to thatch growth. Adjust soil pH and nutrients. In many areas, including most of the Eastern US and Midwest, soil is too acidic and needs a light annual sprinkling of pelletized calcium carbonate lime. For a more accurate approach, conduct a soil test and adjust pH until it is between 6.0 and 7.0. Your soil test kit may also indicate nutrient deficiencies, such as low phosphorus or iron, which can be adjusted with a different fertilizer or soil addition products. Any time of year is fine for liming. If your soil is too alkaline, lower the pH with sulfur gardening products. Care for a diseased lawn. The practices above all help your lawn resist disease. If you see discolored grass or other signs of disease, try to identify the specific disease and ask a local expert for advice on lawn diseases in your area. There are a couple steps you can take that will help fight most diseases: Avoid excessive watering. The grass should never be soaked or swampy. Switch your watering schedule to after midnight or in the early morning. Water applied in the early evening does not go through evapotranspiration, and stands on the turf instead. This can promote fungus and diseases, such as red thread fungus in perennial rye. Shake off dew drops on the grass with a quick hose spray, or by dragging the hose over the top. Some "dew" is actually sugary water exuded by the plant, which microbes can feed on. Reduce use of struggling lawns or lawns in winter. Any time your lawn looks damaged, minimize the amount of foot and vehicle traffic until it returns to health. The same applies to lawns during frost, which are especially vulnerable. | Prepare the area for planting. Choose your grass. Install the new lawn. Water the new lawn. Stay off the new lawn. Water occasionally but deeply. Let your lawn grow dormant (optional). Mow at the highest setting on your mower. Choose a fertilizer. Fertilize your lawn. Aerate your yard in fall or spring. Deal with water runoff. Respond to drying lawns. Fight weeds. Fight insects and other pests. Prevent thatch buildup. Adjust soil pH and nutrients. Care for a diseased lawn. Reduce use of struggling lawns or lawns in winter. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Spot-Clean-Carpet | How to Spot Clean Carpet | In order to spot clean tough stains on your carpet, fill a spray bottle with white vinegar and spray the stain until it's completely soaked with vinegar. Be sure to test the a small spot on your carpet ahead of time to ensure that the vinegar won't damage the carpet. After spraying, take a clean, white cloth and dab at the stain by applying pressure with the palm of your hand. Rinse the cloth and repeat this process until the stain is completely removed. | Use a clean, white cloth. When you clean up stains on carpet, always use a white cloth to avoid transferring any color from the cloth to the carpet. A white paper towel also works well for blotting stains, but make sure the paper towel does not have any printed designs. The “clean” aspect is important, too, because a rag with old residue might transfer that to the carpet and make the stain worse. Blot at the stain from the outside in. Always gently blot at a stain rather than rubbing at it, as this causes the stain to spread farther and may damage the fibers of the carpet. Start at the outside of the stain and dab toward the center of the stain, which also controls spreading. Use a portion of the cloth to blot the stain once and a second portion to blot it again. This way, you pull up as much as possible without pushing anything back into the carpet. This is the simplest method to spot clean carpet and often works without the use of stronger approaches or chemical cleaners. Rinse the stain with clean water. Use a spray bottle filled with clean, cold water, to spritz the stain. Soak the spotted area of the carpet thoroughly. Alternatively, if you don't have a spray bottle, slowly pour water on the stain. Be sure not to over-saturate it. Cold water, rather than hot, is best because hot water may cause stains to loosen and spread more. Keeping the stain centralized is important. This method is good for water-based liquids such as soda, some juices, lemonade, and tea. It may also work on food stains like chocolate, fruit juice, gravy, milk, jelly, and syrup. Water is least likely to cause damage to your carpet, so it's best to try cleaning with water before you try anything else. Blot the stain again with a second clean, white cloth. Set the cloth you used the first time aside and grab a new, clean cloth or paper towel. Dab at the spot until all of the water is soaked up. It may be necessary to use a third cloth if the stain is large enough. If you blot the stain, rinse it with water, and blot it some more with little or no results, move on to a method that uses a stronger cleaner than water. Block off the cleaned area to allow it time to dry. After you are satisfied that the stain has been removed, place something over or around the wet area to give it time to dry. Walking on damp carpet can press the moisture deeper. Damp carpet is also more likely to pick up new stains from shoes. Set up a dinner-table chair or a step stool over the stain to keep people from walking on it. Place a fan or blower on the spot to help it dry faster. Pour vinegar into a spray bottle. Find an empty spritzer bottle, or empty one and rinse it out completely. Fill the bottle with vinegar, or dilute it halfway with water. Some stains that vinegar will typically remove are soda, juice, milk, jelly, mud and various food-based stains. Spray the spot with the vinegar. Test the vinegar in a hidden spot to make sure it won't fade or damage the carpet. Then spray the spot so that it is totally soaked with vinegar. Allow the vinegar to sit for 10 minutes so that it has time to work. Dab at the stain with a clean, white cloth. After the vinegar loosens the stain, apply pressure to the cloth with the palm of your hand. Rinse the cloth and repeat this process until the stain is completely removed from the carpet. Blot and use water on the spot first. Just as you would with other stains, blot up the majority of the stain with a clean, white cloth. Rinse the stain with water and blot it some more. This process will get the majority of the stain up before you do anything else. Baking soda is great for cleaning up fat-based stains, such as butter, margarine, and gravy. Soak the spot with white vinegar. Pour some vinegar into a spray bottle, or stick a spray nozzle directly into the vinegar bottle. If you don't have a spray bottle, pour the vinegar directly from the bottle onto the stain. Use enough vinegar to cover the stain, but don't saturate the carpet. Before you use vinegar on a visible spot on your carpet, test it on a hidden spot to check the colorfastness of the carpet. Vinegar will occasionally discolor carpet. Sprinkle baking soda over the spot. Take the container of baking soda and use a spoon to scoop the powder out, or dump the baking soda directly from the container. Use enough to fully cover the area of the stain. Don't be afraid to let the baking soda pile up a little bit, as it won't hurt anything to use more than you need. This vinegar and baking soda mix is effective on dried stains as well as fresh stains. It also works especially well for pet urine stains. Let the mixture sit for one or two days. Especially for tough stains like pet urine, let the mixture sit on the carpet for a day or two. This gives the vinegar and baking soda plenty of time to absorb the stain and any resulting smell. If you're in a hurry, clean it up sooner, but know that it may be less effective. Let it sit for a minimum of one hour so it has enough time to work. Place a plate or bowl over the spot. While the mixture sits for a couple of days, it presents an obstacle for anyone walking in your house. To avoid tracking baking soda all over the house, place a plate or bowl over the stain to keep people from walking on the spot. Another option is to place a chair or footstool over the spot to force people to walk around it. Vacuum up the dried out baking soda. After you have allowed the mixture to sit awhile and absorb the stain, use a vacuum cleaner to suck up the mess. It may require a few good passes to pull it all up out of the carpet fibers. Spray club soda on the stain for an easy fix. Put the club soda in a spray bottle, then dampen the stain. Wait 1-2 minutes for the soda to soak into the stain. Then, blot the stain with a clean cloth until the stain lifts. As an alternative, you can put your club soda in a dish, then dip your rag in the dish. Blot the stain with your damp rag. Continue to blot the stain until it lifts. Mix one tbsp of grease-fighting dish soap into two cups of cold water. In a bowl or bucket, add the soap and swirl it around in the water until it dissolves. It's important to use cold water to prevent the blood from spreading further into the carpet. Dawn is known for its grease-fighting formula. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Use a spray bottle that is completely clean so you don't transfer anything from it to the carpet. Pour the soapy water into the spray bottle. If you use a spray bottle that previously had another liquid in it, be sure to rinse it thoroughly. Spray the stain with the water so it is totally covered. Using the spritzer bottle, soak the blood stain with the soapy water. Dried blood is likely to need more spraying than fresh blood will need. Don't over-saturate the carpet, but make sure the stain is soaked. Dab at the stain with a clean, white cloth. Take a cloth and put pressure on the stain, allowing the cloth to soak up as much of the blood as possible. It's important to use a white cloth so that no color from the cloth transfers to the carpet. A paper towel with no printing works great and allows you to toss it in the trash after the clean up. If the first round of spraying and dabbing does not fully remove the stain, get a clean cloth and repeat the process as necessary. Mix one tablespoon of ammonia with ½ cup warm water. If the stain does not come up completely with dish soap and water, try the harsher cleaning power of ammonia. Mix the liquids in a cup that you can easily dip a cloth into. Use a clean, white cloth to dab at the stain until it is removed. Make sure to use a different cloth than you used before so it is free of blood. Wet the cloth with the mixture and press it into the stain until it comes up completely. Clean up as much of the mess as you can. Anytime you spill on carpet, speed is the most important factor. The longer a mess sits, the more it soaks in. Lay a towel over a fresh spill and let the towel soak up the liquid. For solid messes, scoop or vacuum up as much as you can before you use a cleaner. Spray or sprinkle a spot cleaning product on the mess. Most manufactured spot cleaners come in a convenient spritzer bottle or aerosol spray can. You may also have a powder cleaner which you'd sprinkle on the stain. Cover the stain completely but don't saturate the carpet. Be very careful not to over-saturate your carpet with the cleaner. If you spray too much product on the carpet, the suds can be hard to remove and may damage your carpet. It's better to use less soap and then do another application if necessary. Follow the specific instructions on the container anytime you use these products. Look for spot cleaning products at most big-box stores, home improvement stores, and many grocery or dollar stores. Let the cleaner sit for as long as directed. Some cleaners may only need to sit for 10 seconds, but others may need 10 minutes or more to do their work effectively. Don't be too eager to wipe them up. Give them time to work. Soak up the cleaner with a dry, white towel. Using either a clean rag or paper towel, gently apply pressure to the stain so the rag or towel can soak it up. Press a dry portion of the rag into the spot at least twice to pull up as much as possible. Spray the stain a second time if the first time does not remove it completely. Some bad stains may need to be treated more than once, and this is up to your judgment. If you are not satisfied with how the spot looks after you clean it, repeat the above process as needed. | Use a clean, white cloth. Blot at the stain from the outside in. Rinse the stain with clean water. Blot the stain again with a second clean, white cloth. Block off the cleaned area to allow it time to dry. Pour vinegar into a spray bottle. Spray the spot with the vinegar. Dab at the stain with a clean, white cloth. Blot and use water on the spot first. Soak the spot with white vinegar. Sprinkle baking soda over the spot. Let the mixture sit for one or two days. Place a plate or bowl over the spot. Vacuum up the dried out baking soda. Spray club soda on the stain for an easy fix. Mix one tbsp of grease-fighting dish soap into two cups of cold water. Pour the mixture into a spray bottle. Spray the stain with the water so it is totally covered. Dab at the stain with a clean, white cloth. Mix one tablespoon of ammonia with ½ cup warm water. Use a clean, white cloth to dab at the stain until it is removed. Clean up as much of the mess as you can. Spray or sprinkle a spot cleaning product on the mess. Let the cleaner sit for as long as directed. Soak up the cleaner with a dry, white towel. Spray the stain a second time if the first time does not remove it completely. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Kill-Fleas-in-a-Home | How to Kill Fleas in a Home | To kill fleas in your home, vacuum your floors and upholstered furniture twice a day for 2 weeks to suck up the fleas. You can also try sprinkling salt over your carpets and leaving it for a week to kill fleas that are hiding in the carpet fibers. After a week, vacuum up all of the salt and throw the vacuum bag away. On top of routine vacuuming, try putting out bowls of soapy water on the floor next to light sources, which will attract and trap the fleas. | Mix botanical dust with a borate powder or boric acid. The easiest way to kill fleas is when they are at their most vulnerable: in the egg and larval stages of their development. This mixture will help prevent a full bloom of fleas. Borates are minerals that are used widely as wood preservatives, detergents, and insecticides, acting as stomach poisons to fleas. An adult flea will live on average 2 to 3 months and as long as 100 days without blood from its host. Newly hatched larvae, on the other hand, must feed within 3 days or they'll starve. So it's easiest by far to attack the larvae first. Dust the carpet, the furniture, and the bed with the borate mix. If you have pets, you can also dust the dog or cat's bed. It's best to do this when you're leaving your house for a good while, say 24 hours. Arrange for your pets to be out of the house during this time, too. Let the mixture settle for a day. When you come back, vacuum the carpet, the furniture, and wash the sheets on both beds. Take care not to breathe in the botanical dust and borate mixture. Use a mask when applying the dust mixture in the home. Use the insecticide in well-ventilated areas and wear gloves. Repeated exposure to insecticides can be harmful to pet and human health. Because of the long flea life cycle, 2 or 3 insecticide treatments, spaced 3 weeks apart, are often needed to completely rid your home of a flea infestation. Set several flea traps out in your home along with the borate mix. Flea traps work by producing light over the trap, which itself contains a flea-killing insecticide. Setting out traps will ensure that you kill any fleas that aren't killed by the borate mix. Fleas are attracted to the heat and the brightness of the light, and fall into the trap, where they are killed by the poison. If you have inquisitive pets who might try to open and eat the contents of the flea trap, set the in a place they cannot access. Or, place the flea traps in rooms that you can keep your pets out of. Vacuum your house twice daily for 2 weeks. Vacuum over any flea-affected areas, including high-traffic areas where the pets usually roam. Be sure to move furniture and vacuum underneath it, and also vacuum rugs and out-of-the-way sections of carpet. Then, vacuum off any upholstered furniture as well. Most fleas will not be able to survive a good vacuum! People often go for high-powered, super-suction vacuums, but the average vacuum should do the trick perfectly. Always discard the vacuum bag after you vacuum. This will help discourage re-infestation. Fill shallow bowls with water and 2 drops of dish detergent. Pour the water and detergent mixture in a very shallow bowl, low enough to the ground so that the fleas could accidentally hop into it. Then, place the mixture next to a low-hanging light source, preferably a night-light. The fleas are attracted to the light. Approaching the light, many of them will fall into the mixture and die in the process. The water and dish detergent mixture is like a toxic swimming pool for fleas. When they jump into the mixture, they die. If you don't have a shallow bowl, an old Frisbee does the job quite well. Spray a lemon solution in affected areas. Thinly slice one whole lemon and drop it into a pint of water. Bring the water to a boil. Then, let the solution stand overnight for maximum potency. Pour into a spray bottle and spray onto affected areas. A slice of a different citrus fruit—e.g., orange, lime, or grapefruit—should work as well. Set out cedar chips in flea-ridden areas. Place cedar chips in the corners of rooms, in the dog pen or bed, and under furniture. You can also place cedar chips in a cotton cloth between the cushions on your furniture, underneath your pillow and, if possible, in your bedding. This will ensure that your bed remains pest-free. Fleas hate the smell of cedar and will do almost anything to avoid it. Cedar chips are available in your local pet or home-supply store. Make sure your pet isn't allergic to cedar. Many dogs can be allergic to cedar. If your dog has an allergic reaction to the cedar—e.g., sneezing or swollen eyes—stop using the cedar chips. Spread salt over the surface of your carpet. Salt is a desiccant, meaning it saps the moisture from things and dries them out. When a salt crystal attaches itself to a flea, it will cause chafing and scraping on the flea, essentially bleeding the flea to death as it walks. After 7–10 days, vacuum the salted area very thoroughly, making sure to pick up all the salt and flea carcasses from the carpet area. Repeat the salting process 1 or 2 more times. Use very fine-grained salt for this. The finer the better; you want it to be small enough to attach to the flea. When you're done vacuuming, discard the old vacuum bag and replace it with a new one. Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around your house. Much like salt, diatomaceous earth will kill fleas by chafing their bodies. Sprinkle a few spoonfuls over areas of carpet that are infested with fleas. You can also use diatomaceous earth preventatively by sprinkling some around the entrances to your home. Purchase diatomaceous earth at a feed store, a hardware store, or a home-supply store. You can put diatomaceous earth on your pets, as long as you keep it out of their eyes and ears. Sprinkle on your pet down the backbone and rub into the skin all over. Spray floors and bedding with an Insect Growth Regulator (IGR). IGRs are a type of chemical insecticide which stop the fleas from developing. The larvae simply die off, rather than becoming adult fleas which will reproduce and make more fleas to infest your home. The IGR thereby breaks the reproduction cycle. This allows you to bring large infestations under control. Typically, the mixed IGR will need to be applied 2 times, each about 3 weeks apart. The most economical method is to buy a concentrate and mix according to the directions that come with the product. You can purchase IGRs at a local hardware store. IGRs are not poisonous to mammals. This makes IGRs a good option around a house that has kids or small animals such as hamsters, reptiles, or fish. Wash your pet every day with flea soap and water. Washing your pet will kill the fleas that may be living on it. Prepare your pet for the bath by applying the flea soap near the pet's ears, eyes, nose, mouth, and butt. When fleas feel water, they immediately look for safe places on the pet to hide out, such as around the neck, on the head, and near the anus. Do this before you get the pet wet. There may be a host of other fleas in various stages of their life cycle waiting to hop onto your pet, so be sure to use this method with other preventative measures, such as vacuuming, borate mixes, and cedar chips. Work in the soap and let the solution stand for at least 10 minutes. After you've applied the soap to the pet's vulnerable areas, get the pet wet and lather its whole body up. Once the 10 minutes have passed, wash all of the soap out of the pet's fur with warm water. Then, once the pet is dry, comb out the dead fleas. Take a shower immediately after washing your pet because some flea shampoos can cause irritation when left on human skin for prolonged periods of time. Use a flea product on your cat or dog. Flea products, such as Advantage or Frontline, are spot-treatments that are applied to pets monthly. Usually, these spot-treatments are dropped directly onto the skin of your pet, usually between the shoulder blades and at several spots down the spine. The treatment will then work its way through the skin (integumentary system). You can purchase pet-friendly flea products at your local pet store. You can use flea products in conjunction with a fine-toothed flea comb. Use a flea comb to pull off individual fleas from the pet's fur. Rotate types of treatments if the first is ineffective. This will prevent flea adaption to the treatments. You may find that some of the standard flea treatments are ineffective because the local flea population has adapted to a particular treatment (including the chemicals in flea collars). In this case, switch among other treatments and use an insect growth regulator (IGR) such as Nylar. For example, if a flea collar isn't working, try scrubbing your pet with flea powder. Your veterinarian will sell oral tablets that you can give your pet. These tablets attack the flea's nervous system via the bloodstream and tissue of your dog or cat. While they kill all the fleas feeding on your pet, they do not prevent fleas. The use of an IGR will not allow propagation of succeeding generations and will prevent, in large measure, fleas adapting to the treatments. Administer a flea tablet orally to rid your pet of a flea infestation quickly. Flea tablets are given orally and take effect within several hours. Flea tablets kill off all of the fleas on an animal within about 60 minutes. However, the tablets are not preventative and will not make your pet immune to becoming infested with fleas a second time. Once the tablet has killed off the fleas, wash the animal to rid it of the dying fleas if you see the animal scratching. Some cats may become hyperactive, vocalize more, or show panting when given flea tablets. If this happens, try cutting the recommended dose, but you may have to discontinue use of tablets with sensitive cats. Add deterrents to the pet's meal. Since fleas feed on the blood of animals, you can treat fleas by manipulating what your pet eats. For example, mix vinegar into dogs' water. Mix a tablespoon of apple-cider vinegar into the dog's water bowl, or bathe the animal using water and vinegar. Don't try this with cats, as their pH is much more sensitive than dogs'. | Mix botanical dust with a borate powder or boric acid. Dust the carpet, the furniture, and the bed with the borate mix. Set several flea traps out in your home along with the borate mix. Vacuum your house twice daily for 2 weeks. Fill shallow bowls with water and 2 drops of dish detergent. Spray a lemon solution in affected areas. Set out cedar chips in flea-ridden areas. Spread salt over the surface of your carpet. Sprinkle food-grade diatomaceous earth around your house. Spray floors and bedding with an Insect Growth Regulator (IGR). Wash your pet every day with flea soap and water. Work in the soap and let the solution stand for at least 10 minutes. Use a flea product on your cat or dog. Rotate types of treatments if the first is ineffective. Administer a flea tablet orally to rid your pet of a flea infestation quickly. Add deterrents to the pet's meal. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Tell-if-Someone-Is-Bulimic | How to Tell if Someone Is Bulimic | Bulimia is the medical term for a disorder that causes people to ingest large amounts of food and then get rid of it by purging. People suffering from bulimia may often have depression and other serious medical issues as well, so you should be respectful and sensitive when you talk about it. One way to identify bulimia is to check for physical signs and symptoms. Common physical signs of bulimia are red or swollen eyes and cheeks, the smell of vomit, and fluctuations in weight. You can also look for behavioral signs of someone suffering from bulimia such as frequent trips to the bathroom right after a large meal, excessive use of breath mints, and an inconsistent eating schedule. | Look for red or swollen eyes and cheeks. If someone is inducing vomiting, they will often have a swollen jaw and cheeks. It is also common for them to strain so hard that they burst blood vessels in their eyes. This will cause swollen red eyes and is a sign of bulimia. Take note of any calluses or scars on their hands and fingers. When you vomit, stomach acid comes up with the food. Frequent exposure to this acid can cause damage to the skin and nails on a person's hands and fingers. It is also common for someone dealing with bulimia to have scars on their hands and knuckles from hitting their teeth while trying to induce vomiting. Pay attention to how they smell. One common way of purging is to induce vomiting. This is a difficult smell to mask, and if you are paying attention you might notice it. If a person smells like vomit once, they may simply be sick (and maybe even embarrassed of it). If you smell vomit on a person frequently, it is likely that this could be a way of purging. Watch for fluctuations in weight. Purging is not an effective way to eliminate calories from your body (which is usually the goal), and thus a person with bulimia will not usually be underweight. Most people with this disorder are slightly overweight or are normal weight. It is common, however, for someone battling bulimia to fluctuate frequently in weight (e.g., dropping ten pounds this month, then gaining fifteen next month, then dropping seventeen shortly after). Look at their mouth. If someone is purging by inducing vomiting, they will likely have dry, cracked lips. Another sign is bleeding gums or discolored teeth. A dentist or doctor might notice swollen saliva glands or eroded enamel, also. Discuss your concerns with their doctor. If the person you are concerned about is a minor (and you are their guardian) then you can discuss your concerns with their doctor. The doctor can look for signs of bulimia such as metabolic acidosis or alkalosis. High cholesterol is can also be a sign of bulimia. Take note of where they go after a meal. If someone is binging and purging, they will often excuse themselves from the table before anyone else. They will also go to purge if they feel that they have eaten too much or eaten the wrong foods. This often means they will go to the restroom, but not always. You should pay close attention to after meal habits. Pay attention to bathroom habits. It is common for someone purging in the bathroom to run water to cover up the sounds of purging. They also may flush the toilet several times, as the smell is unpleasant in between bouts of purging. These episodes usually happen shortly after eating. Notice any signs of withdrawing. When someone is combatting bulimia, there is an underlying component of guilt and low self-esteem. This will cause someone to stop engaging socially, such as making eye contact. It can also cause a person to stop engaging physically and emotionally in relationships. Check for a consistent eating schedule. It is common for someone with bulimia to have trouble sticking to a meal schedule. They may skip meals and they eat large portions, stopping only when they are physically uncomfortable. Sometimes clear cycles of overeating and then fasting will be clear. These are all signs of bulimia. Listen for any signs of obsessions around body image. These obsessions can be elusive and well hidden under the guise of “being concerned about health.” Common body image obsessions include picky eating, calorie counting and crash diets, excessive exercise habits, constantly worrying over food and weight, and obsessing over the way they look. While it is healthy to take care of one's self, obsessing over “health” or “looks” can be a sign of bulimia. Pay attention to defensive behaviors. If someone you care about is hiding bulimia, they do not want you to find out. The guilt and shame that fuels the binging and purging cycles also makes the thought of being caught unbearable for most. If you bring up food or eating habits, it is likely that someone struggling with bulimia will become irrationally defensive. Note the excessive use of breath fresheners. If a person is purging by inducing vomiting, they will likely use minty breath fresheners (e.g., gum, mouthwash, or mints) to cover their breath. If you are noticing other signs of bulimia, or have a strong suspicion of bulimia, this is another sign to watch for. Remember that just having gum is not a cause for suspicion. Be aware of other behaviors linked to bulimia. Bulimia stems from emotional and self-esteem struggles. It is very common that someone with bulimia will engage in other behaviors that reflect those struggles. Drug use, depression, anxiety, and anorexia are all common in people struggling with bulimia. Watch for food to go missing. For someone with bulimia, eating is often something to be ashamed of. It is common for someone with bulimia to sneak or steal food and eat it in secrecy. If large amounts of food go missing often, this deserves your attention. Monitor the trash or recycling. If someone is eating in secrecy, they will likely dispose of the evidence. Even if you do not notice food missing, large quantities of wrappers or food containers being thrown away might suggest binging. Be sure to look in the trash or recycling right before taking pick up, as someone who is being diligent to hide wrappers may wait until the last minute to dispose of them. Look for purging products. Not all people struggling with bulimia purge by inducing vomiting. It is common to use laxatives or diuretics to purge. Diet pills and appetite reducers may also be used to help in fasting stages. Pay attention to anything that smells like vomit. Sometimes it is difficult to notice the smell of a person after they purge. However, you might notice that the bathroom often smells like vomit. You can also take note of whether their dirty clothes smell like vomit. These might be signs of bulimia. Take note of stopped up drains. Not all induced vomiting happens in the toilet. Some people choose to vomit in the sink, and others find the shower to be very convenient because the water covers up the sound of purging. If you are having drain issues, this could be a sign that someone is struggling with bulimia. | Look for red or swollen eyes and cheeks. Take note of any calluses or scars on their hands and fingers. Pay attention to how they smell. Watch for fluctuations in weight. Look at their mouth. Discuss your concerns with their doctor. Take note of where they go after a meal. Pay attention to bathroom habits. Notice any signs of withdrawing. Check for a consistent eating schedule. Listen for any signs of obsessions around body image. Pay attention to defensive behaviors. Note the excessive use of breath fresheners. Be aware of other behaviors linked to bulimia. Watch for food to go missing. Monitor the trash or recycling. Look for purging products. Pay attention to anything that smells like vomit. Take note of stopped up drains. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Kiss | How to Kiss | If you want to kiss someone, get the go-ahead first by flirting with them and seeing if they flirt back, or asking directly if you can kiss them. Then, lean in closer to them and tilt your head a little to avoid bumping noses. Close your eyes, open your mouth slightly, and let your lips connect naturally. Don't press too hard with your lips at first. If your first kiss goes well, put your partner's lower lip between your lips so your lips fit together. Then, lightly run your tongue over your partner's lower lip. If they seem into it, try gently moving your tongue into your partner's mouth. Go slow and don't rush things. Remember to breathe through your nose as you're kissing so you don't run out of breath. Kissing can feel a little awkward at first, but it will get better the more you practice. If you know you're going to be kissing someone, put on some chapstick and suck on a mint beforehand so your lips and breath are good to go. | Drop hints that you're interested. You can put out some subtle signals that you're angling for a kiss without coming right out and saying it. Here's how to communicate it romantically: Get caught looking (briefly) at the other person's lips. Don't purse your lips. Keep them softly parted — not so much that you could breathe comfortably through the opening, but enough that you could bite your bottom lip easily. Make your mouth appealing. Use chapstick or lipgloss to smooth over flaky lips, and keep your breath fresh with mints or spray. Avoid gum, which you might have to spit out awkwardly if the other person goes in for a kiss. Break the kiss barrier (optional). If you're feeling brave, test the waters with a small kiss on the hand or the cheek. If the other person seems interested, it's probably safe to proceed with a kiss on the mouth. If you're kissing a girl : Take her hand and slowly lift it to your mouth. Gently press your lips into the back of your hand for 2 or 3 seconds before breaking away. If you're kissing a guy : Lean in and plant a 2- or 3-second kiss on his cheek. Keep your lips soft, and avoid puckering like you would if you were kissing a family member. If you want your intentions to be extra clear, aim for the part of his cheek just to the side of his lips. Set the mood with a romantic compliment. Go big and pay the other person the sincerest compliment you can think of. If you get it right, the other person might take the lead and lean in to kiss you. Say it in an intimate way. Lower the volume and tone of your voice slightly, and lock eyes. Not only does this communicate that you have deep feelings for this person, it entices him or her to come closer to hear you. Focus on an alluring quality. Even if you truly think that your date is an amazing basketball player, now might not be the best time to bring it up. Instead, base your compliment on how you see your date as a romantic partner. Try these lines: "You are SO beautiful." "Your eyes drive me crazy." "I love to see you smile." "I am so lucky to be with you right now." Consider asking for a kiss directly. If all else fails, go for broke and state your intentions. If your date hasn't picked up on any of your hints and you're dying to lock lips, you might as well be straightforward and just ask if you can kiss him or her. Don't worry, though — you can be direct while still being romantic and compelling. Try these phrases if you're at a loss for words: "I'd love nothing more than to kiss you right now." "I'm sorry if this is too forward, but I'd really like to kiss you." "I want to kiss you so much that it is just about killing me." Go in for the kiss. Don't waste any time once you have the go-ahead — close your eyes, lean in and smooch! The next sections will discuss some kissing techniques, as well as how to handle kissing in different dating situations such as a first kiss or kissing after a date. Keep your lips soft. Tense puckers are for family members or people you're obligated to kiss, but keeping your mouth slightly parted and soft communicates a sense of openness. Do a few soft kisses. Start slow with soft, gentle kisses and skip the tongue and the teeth — for now. If your partner seems receptive, you can move forward to French kissing. Try to avoid letting your lips smack. The noise can be distracting, and might break your immersion in the moment. If you do find yourself smacking, slow down and part your lips a bit more. Stay light at first. Avoid smashing your lips against your date's mouth — for now. Kissing softly and gently gives the other person the chance to stop if it's uncomfortable, as well as allowing you to gauge his or her interest. Stay at a manageable level of saliva. Slobbery puppies are the last thing you want your date thinking of while you kiss him or her. Avoid this fate by swallowing excess saliva occasionally. If you notice that your lips are a bit too wet, pull away and discreetly purse them to bring the extra spit back into your mouth. "Lock" lips. If your initial kisses have gone well, try a lip lock, which can lead to closer kisses (and is a nice gateway for French kissing ). Basically, you'll "stack" your lips so that (for instance) it looks like this: Your lower lip Your partner's lower lip Your upper lip Your partner's upper lip At first, putting your partner's lower lip between yours is the safest bet. Most people have larger lower lips, making them easier to grab gently with your lips. Make sure to breathe. Ideally, you'll be able to breathe softly through your nose while you're kissing. If that's not possible, though, break away for a second to take a breath. Don't feel self-conscious about being out of breath or needing to take a break for a second. Breathing hard is an indication that you're nervous and excited, which your partner will probably find flattering. Use your hands. Don't just let your hands hang at your sides like two limp fettuccini noodles — put them to good use! Place your hands lightly on your partner's shoulders or around his or her waist. (In Western culture, girls generally put their hands on a boys shoulders while he puts his hands around her waist.) Take the intimacy up a notch by pulling your partner in closer. Put your hands on the sides of his or her face, using your thumb to sweep across the cheekbone, or put one hand under his or her chin and tilt it upward. Another seriously sensual move is to put both hands around the back of your partner's head and tangle them in his or her hair, gently pulling. Test using tongue. Once you're in a lip lock with your partner's lower lip between both of yours, lightly run the tip of your tongue over it. If you can move it slowly, even better. See how your partner responds. If he or she presses in closer or returns the gesture, you're probably clear to keep increasing the intensity of the kiss. If your date pulls away, maybe it's best to pull back the tongue for now and stick to lips-only kisses. Try French kissing (optional). Using your tongue during a kiss is, in Western culture, referred to as a French kiss. Why do the French get the credit? Who knows! Here's how to get started: Sweep your tongue along the inside of your partner's lower lip. Try to move slowly and lightly at first, increasing speed and pressure only if your partner seems to respond well. Slide the tip of your tongue inside your partner's mouth and gently move it against the tip of his or her tongue. Use light, darting motions and keep your tongue moving — letting it sit limply in your partner's mouth isn't appealing and will bring a quick end to the kissing. Try deeper and harder strokes if your partner seems responsive. Mix it up. Don't feel obligated to keep the intensive tongue activity going forever. Alternate soft and hard, slow and fast, deep and shallow. You can even go back to using only your lips for a few minutes. Alternating your technique will keep your partner from being able to predict what's coming next. Maintaining this sense of surprise and spontaneity helps your kisses avoid becoming stale. Gently nibble your partner's lips (optional). Teeth aren't a necessary element of kissing, but a grazing them over your partner's lip can introduce another unexpected element. Here are some quick pointers: Keep the pressure as light as possible. Remember that you're aiming to nibble, not bite. Move slowly. Again, keeping your pace gentle will help prevent accidentally chomping on your partner's lip. When your lips are locked, place your teeth over your partner's lower lip and slowly pull back until your teeth are almost at the end of the lip. Pause for a moment, then resume kissing as usual. Don't break out the biters too much. They should be an occasional perk, not the main attraction. Be prepared for rejection. Not everyone likes a side of teeth with their kisses. If your partner doesn't respond well, try not to be too offended — it's probably a matter of personal taste, not a lapse in your technique. Increase the intensity with occasional breaks. Pull away for a moment to look into your partner's eyes, whisper something in his or her ear, or simply catch your breath and marvel at your good fortune. Instead of putting a damper on the action, these small moments can actually make kissing more intimate. It gives your partner the sense that you see him or her as a complete person, and not simply something to kiss. Try to pick a trustworthy partner. Smooching someone you trust can ease a lot of the anxiety of your first kiss. If you knew you were giving someone his or her first kiss you'd try to be patient and understanding, so expect the same of your partner. Keep in mind that an awkward first kiss isn't the end of the relationship (or the world). Actually, it can build intimacy through having a shared experience. As long as you can laugh it off, you'll be fine. Remember, everyone has gone through having their first kiss. Odds are that most people are more awkward about it than you'll be, even if you don't know it. Prepare your mouth. Use chapstick or lipgloss to smooth over chapped lips, and brush your teeth and tongue well. If your mouth feels a little stale, use breath mints or spray to freshen up. Knowing that your mouth is clean and appealing can help you feel more confident about kissing. That being said, though, don't feel like you need to obsess over cleanliness. Most mouths just "taste" warm, unless you've recently eaten something pungent (like onions or garlic) or you've just woken up in the morning. Don’t rush. You only get one first kiss ! Unless you're both so overwhelmed with desire that you have to kiss right now or the world will end, draw it out. It can be tremendously exciting and sensual to tease the kiss before it happens, keeping eye contact the whole time. Let the other person take the lead (optional). If you're nervous about not knowing the right techniques, let your partner initiate what happens during the kiss. Imitate what he or she does until you're comfortable trying your own moves. Take a few calculated risks. As you become more comfortable with kissing, try to take the lead on initiating kisses or working on new techniques. If your partner doesn't respond well, simply write it off as personal preference and try something else. Get close. Since the possibility of a goodbye kiss always beckons—and assuming it's your desire—it's best to start getting close sooner than later. Otherwise, you will find yourself saying your goodbyes with what feels like a chasm between you, making the swoop in for the kiss very conspicuous and awkward. Guys, this is when you get the dreaded last-minute-turn-and-kiss-on-the-cheek routine, which is second only to the phrase, “You remind me of my brother,” for most-deflating date ending. As you walk your date to the car, the door, etc., put your hand (or a jacket) on your date's shoulder or back. This breaks the touch barrier, gently lets your date know your intentions, and gives you an excuse to stand very close all at the same time. Watch your date’s reaction. If your date angles his or her body away from you or speeds up to create distance, don't try to complete the goodnight kiss—and don't let your ego make a fool of you. Simply flash a big smile, thank them for the lovely time, and go about your business. It could simply be that your date isn't ready to kiss yet. Maintain eye contact. Making eye contact while standing close is a universally acknowledged indicator that a post-date kiss is about to take place. If the eye contact becomes too long, break and reestablish it as necessary; it's better to let your eyes dart around than subject your date to an interrogation-style stare down. One good way to break eye contact while maintaining the romance is to glance down at your date's lips It may feel awkward to make your desires so clear, just remember that by giving your date a heads-up, you will make the kiss go much more smoothly and improve the odds that it will turn into a glorious make out session. Trying to plant a kiss by surprise, on the other hand, may result in bumped noses and teeth, a startled pullback, and much awkwardness. Stop the conversation. When people get nervous, they often compensate by finding anything to talk about, killing the kissing opportunities. While you shouldn't try to end the conversation abruptly, which might come across as trying to get over with your goodbyes, you shouldn't encourage your date to ramble, either. Let the chatter die down by keeping your responses friendly but minimal. . Consider breaking the kiss barrier If everything is going well but you're not quite ready to dive into full-blown romantic kissing, lean in for a hug and kiss the person on the cheek. Don't confuse this with a friendly peck smack in the middle the cheek; make your feelings clear by placing the kiss close to the ear or mouth and letting your lips linger for a second, or whisper something flirty in their ear with lips touching. This will help the other person know that the kiss isn't meant in a platonic context. Keep it simple. If this is a first kiss with this person—or, more importantly still, a first date—don't overdo it. Keep your lips softly parted and either plant a straightforward kiss on your partner's lips or up the ante by gently locking lips. Resist the temptation to kiss hard or with tongue, unless you've been chasing this person for quite some time. It might seem too forward and shut down future opportunities. Follow your date’s lead. Pay attention to how your date responds and moves during the kiss. If they lean closer or linger, you may be able to transition into more romantic kissing; otherwise, end the kiss by pulling slowly back, reopening your eyes to make eye contact, and smiling. Pucker your lips. Having your lips puckered keeps them tight and somewhat closed, indicating that you're unwilling to open your mouth for more intimacy. Most people will read a pucker as strictly platonic. To know if you're puckering your lips correctly, kiss in the air. How loud is the kissing noise? It should be a clearly audible "pop" of your lips as you part them while sucking air in. A romantic kiss will barely make this noise because your lips are much more relaxed. Make your intentions clear. If you want to kiss someone on the cheek and that someone is at risk of misinterpreting your intentions, make it clear that you're not going for the mouth by turning your head off to the side before you lean in. Try to plant the kiss squarely in the middle of the cheek so that it's not veering for more romantic areas such as the ear or mouth. If you're uncomfortable actually kissing the other person's skin, try air kissing. Lean in so that your cheek is touching the side of the other person's cheek, and kiss the air with a few quick and audible puckers. For extra effect, pull back, switch sides, and do it again. Keep it brief. The amount of time your lips spend on the other person's cheek or lips should be limited to whatever it takes to make that kissing noise described in the previous step—nothing more. If your lips linger, it won't seem so platonic. Kiss out of respect or worship. Bow or kneel before the other person. Look up in respect. Remain in this position during the kiss. Take the person's hand gently and bring it close to your lips. | Drop hints that you're interested. Break the kiss barrier (optional). Set the mood with a romantic compliment. Consider asking for a kiss directly. Go in for the kiss. Keep your lips soft. Do a few soft kisses. Stay at a manageable level of saliva. "Lock" lips. Make sure to breathe. Use your hands. Test using tongue. Try French kissing (optional). Mix it up. Gently nibble your partner's lips (optional). Increase the intensity with occasional breaks. Try to pick a trustworthy partner. Prepare your mouth. Don’t rush. Let the other person take the lead (optional). Take a few calculated risks. Get close. Watch your date’s reaction. Maintain eye contact. Stop the conversation. . Keep it simple. Follow your date’s lead. Pucker your lips. Make your intentions clear. Keep it brief. Kiss out of respect or worship. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-a-Handover-in-an-Office | How to Do a Handover in an Office | If you're leaving your job and you need to do a handover to help train your successor, talk to your manager about what you'll be expected to cover, and write a formal document detailing anything your successor will need to know. Have the new person shadow you for a few days and make sure they have everything they will need during the job. Before you leave, have a final handover meeting with your successor, giving them the opportunity to ask any questions they might have. | Discuss the handover with your manager. You should start by having a detailed discussion with your manager to determine exactly how they want you to handle the handover. Depending on your job and how your manager likes to work, you may be asked to contribute extensively to the handover. This could include the new person shadowing you for a few days or longer. In most instances you will have to at least prepare a formal handover document. Discuss this with your manager and find out how much you are expected to contribute, and what the focus of your handover should be. Draw up an early outline of your handover document. Once you have a clear idea of your manager's expectations, you can start by drawing up a draft handover document. This will help you to organise yourself, and catalogue all the various tasks and pieces of information that you will need to pass on during the handover period. This document should include: Detailed information on your day-to-day activities, tasks and priorities. An outline of the key points of the role. A clear outline of what is expected of your successor. A list of any essential files that will be handed over. This might include a particular contract, or work programme. Tie up loose ends. If you know you will be leaving your post soon, it can be helpful to put in a little extra work to make sure that you tie up any loose ends. You will get a sense of satisfaction at achieving this, and you will also be helping your successor start off with a clean slate. Doing this will also help ensure that you leave on excellent terms and with a good reputation. This won't always be possible, but if you have something that is nearly over the line, put in a little extra work to get it done. A new person coming into a deal right when it is near the line may struggle to get it closed, because they are unfamiliar with all its intricacies. Communicate with your colleagues. Before your successor is due to start, try to make some time to talk to your colleagues about the handover and ask if there is anything your colleagues think you should highlight. If there is a developing issue that you are unaware of, this is a good opportunity to touch base and find out. Developing issues are not likely to affect your final days, but if you are aware of them then you can flag them up to your successor. This is also a chance to make sure everyone knows you're leaving and when. Let your colleagues know about the handover period, so that they can take it into consideration. Your productivity is likely to slow during the handover, so its good practice to give your colleagues some advance warning. Write up a formal handover document. The final step of your handover preparation is to complete a formal handover document. You can build on the draft document, but try to elaborate and include all the important information. You will need to run through the document with your manager and any other key staff it will affect. Try to have this completed and sent to your successor at least a few days before they are set to start. The content will vary from job to job, but it may include some of the following: A list and timetable of actions. A briefing of ongoing issues. A calendar of forthcoming events and deadlines. Passwords and login information. A list of useful contacts. A guide to navigating files and folders on the computer system. Allow as much time as possible. When your successor begins in the office, you may still be around and be asked to do a more complete handover. The length of this will vary, but in some instances you will be given a few days or longer to help the new person get to grips with the job. Generally the more time you have available for a full handover, the more information you will be able to pass on. There are bound to be things that you forgot about, and having someone shadow you is a good way to expose them to the variety of day-to-day activity. Hand over key documents personally. During the handover, it is good practice to ensure that all the key pieces of data and documentation and handed over personally. This will help you to make sure that the most important things are dealt with appropriately and priorities are clearly set out. Handing over documents face-to-face means that complex information can be discussed fully before you leave. This opportunity to explain key information, and for your successor to ask you direct questions is vital for a good handover. This will also give you an opportunity to provide nuance and context in a discussion that might have been overlooked otherwise. Make the effort to help. If you are in the office with your successor, you should always be attentive and proactive. Make the effort to identify and help resolve any occurring issues. Your successor may be a little shy or intimidated in their first few days, and may not want to hassle you with questions. Make sure you make it clear that you are there to help, and you welcome queries. By doing this, you will be helping to foster a situation in which the responsibility for the handover is shared between you and your successor. Have a final handover meeting. The last thing to do before you leave and complete the handover, is to do full handover meeting with your successor. Ask your successor to bring along any outstanding questions they have, and the notes they have made. This meeting is a great opportunity for the new person to ensure that they understand their role and responsibilities. Any uncertainties can be cleared up in the meeting. Depending on where you work, it might be prudent to invite your manager or supervisor to attend the meeting. You should certainly inform your manager of when and where it is taking place, and ask them if there is anything they would like to add. Highlight available support and training. Try to think of the handover as an opportunity for you to really contribute to giving someone the best possible chance to succeed. You are not just trying to hand off tasks and jobs, but are trying to help your successor's professional development and your former employer's long term-health. Do this by pointing out any relevant training opportunities that you know of. Perhaps when you started the job, you received a suite of training to help you adapt and develop. Be sure you mention this to your successor, and encourage them to explore the possibilities. Don’t neglect the working culture. If you are spending time with the person who will be filling your position, it's important not to focus solely on technical aspects of the job. Each place has a unique working environment and culture that can be intimidating or confusing for a newcomer. Be sure to set some time aside to give the new person the lowdown on how the office functions. Make the effort to take them around the office and introduce them to everyone. Be sure you clearly define the role of the new employee as well as existing employees. If the job description of the new arrival is slightly different to yours, or their responsibilities and priorities are focussed elsewhere, make sure existing staff recognise this. Provide your contact details. If you really want to go the extra mile, you could provide the new employee with your contact details. You might say that they can contact you if there is a major issue or they need a little guidance. Not everyone will be happy to do this, and it is likely to depend on your relationship with your former employer. Often a problem can be resolved with a simple email. Offering to help out after you leave will make a good impression and help boost your reputation. | Discuss the handover with your manager. Draw up an early outline of your handover document. Tie up loose ends. Communicate with your colleagues. Write up a formal handover document. Allow as much time as possible. Hand over key documents personally. Make the effort to help. Have a final handover meeting. Highlight available support and training. Don’t neglect the working culture. Provide your contact details. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-a-Lovebird-As-a-Pet | How to Keep a Lovebird As a Pet | To keep a lovebird as a pet, start by placing its cage in a quiet, well lit room since a dark room can cause your lovebird to develop health problems. Then, feed it 2 to 3 teaspoons of pellet or seed based bird food a day, along with fruits and vegetables like apples and carrots. Additionally, make sure that your bird always has access to fresh water, ideally through a water attachment on the cage. In order to keep your bird well-socialized, play with it in 30 minute increments throughout the day. | Don’t worry about buying more than one lovebird or bonding your lovebird to another lovebird. Contrary to popular belief, keeping lovebirds as a single pet is not frowned upon by breeders and experts so don't be too concerned about purchasing more than one lovebird at a time. In fact, introducing another lovebird to your lovebird at a later date can be dangerous, as the older lovebird may try to harm or kill the new bird. Another risk of keeping more than one lovebird is that the birds will want to bond with each other, rather than you, their owner. If you do want to keep more than one lovebird at a time, introduce the bird when they are both very young. Groups of lovebirds create social hierarchies, so there is one alpha bird and every bird follows the alpha. Another common myth is that lovebirds can be mean or aggressive, especially female lovebirds who are marking their territory or their cage. Most breeders agree that male lovebirds make better pets, though males can also show territorial behavior and chirp at any fingers that enter their cage. Most lovebirds, male and female, have mild temperaments. To counteract any aggression from them, it's important that you train your lovebird to prevent nipping. Become familiar with the different lovebird breeds. There are many different breeds of lovebirds, but the three most popular breeds are: Peach-faced lovebirds: These little birds are the most commonly kept breed. They stand at 5-inches tall, with green and blue plumes, and have a rosy colored face. Peach-faced lovebirds have been bred into hundreds of color mutations, from pure white albino birds to deep purple birds. Masked lovebirds: This breed has eye-rings, a black mask, an orange beak, yellow chest feathers, and green wings. Some breeders consider masked lovebirds more aggressive than the two other more common breeds. Fischer's lovebirds: Also known as eye-ring lovebirds, as they have a white ring around their eyes. They are smaller than peach faced and masked lovebirds and have a distinct, high pitched chirp. Most breeders agree that Fischer's are more aggressive than the peach-faced lovebirds or masked lovebirds. Look for a lovebird at your local pet store. Most local pet stores have lovebirds for sale, likely peach faced and Fischer's lovebirds. Before you buy the lovebird, check that: The bird looks healthy. The bird should be perky, active, and alert with bright clear eyes. They should also have a clear cere, or fleshy nose area, and nares, or nostrils. You can't see the nostrils usually on some lovebirds. Ask someone to even check if the lovebird is healthy. Watch the bird eat and drink to make sure the bird has an appetite. The bird should also be well groomed with neat, bright feathers. The feathers should be mostly smoothed to the body, not fluffy or raised. If they are, the bird is one out of four things. Either sick, cold, protecting something, or angry. So think twice. The bird's feet and legs should be smooth and free of lumps, scabs, and rough scales. The bird should vocalize with you in chirps, clicks, and whistles. Most lovebirds are excited to communicate with new faces, though some bird can be shy or intimidated around new people. A healthy bird will be confident and inquisitive, but cautious and aware as well. If possible, ask to hold or touch the bird. Make sure the bird is interested in interacting with you and does not bite or hurt you. This may be a sign the bird is aggressive. If he just nibbles your finger, he is just checking you out to see if he likes you. Stay calm!! You get used to it over time, and as long as it doesn't hurt, it's fine. Search online for lovebird breeders. There are several databases of lovebird breeders available online that you can search based on your state or area and your preferred breed. Be wary of overpriced birds and always contact the breeders directly to establish a rapport before you buy a bird from them. Most reputable breeders hand-raise their birds. This means they are involved in every stage of breeding, from choosing the mates to creating a good breeding environment in a cage to maintaining the birds' diet and nutrition. Breeders will also carefully watch over the eggs and take care of the babies until they have found suitable homes. Some breeders will hand-feed the babies to tame them and wean them off of their parents. Hand-feeding and hand-taming the babies are also good ways to get the birds used to human interaction. This makes most hand-raised lovebirds very tame and loving pets. Hand-raised Lovebirds can range in price from $40 to $130 for the more common species and mutations. Hand raised or hand fed lovebirds mean that they were raised by people and taken care of by people. Parent-fed lovebirds from a pet store are generally less expensive. But the rarer species and mutations will be more expensive than the more common species. Take your new lovebird to the vet. Birds can pick up health problems that may not be obvious to you, so bring your new lovebird to a vet to confirm the bird is healthy. If you know you are going to be buying a lovebird in the near future, schedule a vet appointment for right after you pick up the bird from the store or the breeder. For an additional fee, the vet can create a wellness plans to help your lovebird live a long, healthy life. These plans include annual health check ups and emergency medical care. Consider confirming the sex of the lovebird. Lovebirds are not sexually dimorphic, which means you generally cannot tell if a lovebird is a male (a cock) or a female (a hen) just by looking at the lovebird. The best way to confirm the sex of the lovebird is to have your vet do a DNA test, or to conduct one yourself with a DNA kit. A DNA kit usually costs between $15 and $22. You will need to clip one of your bird's toenails a little higher than you normally would and send the sample to the lab. Consider if this would hurt or make your lovebird uncomfortable. It would use its defence and bite, and that might leave a small mark and pain on your skin. If it is bleeding, make sure to wash and bandage it. The vet can also take the sample for you and send it to the lab for testing. Some visual differences between the sexes exist, as hens tend to have a wider stance on the perch, they are a bit larger than cocks, and they have wider pelvic bones that you can check gently with your index finger. Peach-colored hens will also tuck material under their wings to take them to the nesting box, while peach-colored cocks will try to do this but fail. However, there are exceptions to these general characteristics depending on the bird. Look for a cage that is at least 18” long by 18” wide by 18” tall at your local pet store. Lovebirds are active, playful birds so they need a cage that will accommodate all the toys and perches they need to keep them busy. The larger the cage, the comfortable it will be for the bird. The cage should also have horizontal bars on at least two sides. The bar spacing should be no more than ¾” apart to prevent injury. Use perches of different widths, diameters, and textures in the cage. The cage should have at least two or three perches of various sizes, shapes, and textures to help your bird's feet stay healthy and strong. The perches should be thick enough for the bird to stand comfortably on them without losing her balance. The smallest perch should be about ½” in diameter. Look for perches made from wooden dowels, natural wood branches, bonded sand and concrete, and rope. Keep the bird’s cage off the floor and away from drafts, open windows, and the kitchen. Your bird's cage should be raised and kept away from air vents and doorways. Some birds can catch a cold if exposed to a draft while they are wet, such as after a bath. Lovebirds can be sensitive to smoke and strong odors, as well as loud noise. If you smoke, do not smoke in the room where your lovebird lives. Place the cage in a quiet, well lit room. A room that is too dark may cause your lovebird to behave oddly and develop health issues. But you should not place the cage near a window that gets full sun during the hottest months of the year as this may cause heat stroke or death for your little bird. Weak, unfiltered sunlight on the cage is ideal as this gives your bird vital ultraviolet-B light to keep her healthy. If your lovebird's cage is near a window with weak light, you may want to consider investing in a special light bulb that emits safe levels of ultraviolet-B light to hang over your lovebird's cage. You can turn on the light for 8 to 10 hours a day to make sure your bird gets enough light. Make sure your bird gets 10-12 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. Sleep is important for lovebirds. If you are going to keep your lovebird in a cage indoors, you may want to get a cover for the cage to help your bird sleep at night. You can also get a smaller sleep cage for your bird if you don't have enough space for a large cage indoors. Using a sleep cage will ensure your bird has a quiet, safe place to sleep. You should put your lovebird to bed at the same time every night and bring her out of her sleep cage the same time every morning. Clean your bird’s cage once a week. The tray and dishes in your bird's cage should be cleaned every day. But your bird's cage is your bird's home so it should also be cleaned once a week. Use warm water and soap. Remove your bird from the cage and wipe down the cage, the perches, and any toys in the cage. You can also use a product called Cleansing Gel to do a deep clean of the cage. This cleaner contains stabilized chlorine dioxide and is safe for birds. Be careful when using a diluted bleach solution to disinfect the cage. Bleach is toxic to birds. So rinse the cage thoroughly after you use a bleach and water solution. Then, place the cage in the sun to air dry. Be certain the cage and bowls are free of any bleach smell before you place your bird back in the cage. Give your bird high quality bird food. The right food size for your lovebird will be indicated by the image on the label of these bird foods. Look for bird food that has high quality seeds that are hulled and bound together with supplements that contain vitamins and minerals, such as pellet foods. The average lovebird should have 2-3 teaspoons of pellet or seed based bird food a day. You can also give your bird seed mixes. But keep in mind loose seed mix allows your lovebird to pick and choose what seeds it eats. Nutri-berries, Avi-cakes, and Pellet-berries require your lovebird to work to pry off a piece, so your bird is more likely to get a variety of seeds. Look for seed mixes from your local pet store that contain canary seed, millet, rice, oats, safflower and a small amount of sunflower seeds. Corn is often a big hit with lovebirds, as well as sprouted seed. Integrate fresh fruit and vegetables in your bird’s diet. Pellet foods and seed mixes should be given to your bird on a daily basis, but should not be the only food you give your bird as they do not provide proper nutrition. About 5-10% of your bird's diet should be bite-sized fruits and vegetables. Give your bird healthy fruits like apples, grapes, berries, papaya, and mango. You should also feed your bird vegetables like carrots, broccoli, zucchini, squash, cooked sweet potatoes, and dark leafy greens like kale and romaine. Feed your bird healthy treat foods. These include cooked whole grains, like brown rice, whole grain pasta, multigrain breads, and sugar free cereals. When you feed your bird fresh foods, make sure you remove anything in their cage that is uneaten so the food does not spoil. You should also wash the bowls in their cage before using them again. It's fine if your lovebird shares many of the foods you eat. But limit her consumption of fried, greasy, sugary, and salty foods so she stays healthy. Make sure your bird has access to clean, fresh water throughout the day. Do not give your bird tap water or unfiltered water. Most cages come with a water attachment so your bird has access to water all the time. Never give your bird alcohol, chocolate, or caffeinated beverages. These substances can kill your lovebird, even in small amounts. You should also avoid giving your bird avocados, rhubarb, asparagus, onions, raw legumes like beans and peas, and dairy products. Give your bird a bath once a week. Regular bathing is important for keeping your bird healthy and free of disease. If lovebirds are not bathed, their feathers can get ragged or dirty. Use a fine mist sprayer filled with water to shower your lovebird. Spray lightly a foot or two above your bird so the water droplets drift down like rain. Do this a few times so your lovebird gets used to the “rain” and starts to preen and groom herself. Some birds love to bathe and will happily hop into a small ceramic dish filled with water. Your bird may also splash around in the water for several minutes. Dry off your bird well and keep her in a warm room. After each bath, make sure you give your bird a quick dry with a small towel and keep her in a warm room so she doesn't get chilled or catch a cold. Decide whether to trim her wings every few weeks. This is not a required part of grooming your bird but will help to tame her. Wing-trims will also keep your bird from flying into ceiling fans, windows, and other potential hazards. Wing clipping is controversial, because clipping the wings alters the bird's flight which leads to "crash landings" and damage to the brisket area. It has largely gone out of vogue now, in favor of making rooms bird-safe and training the bird to come when called. If you are uncomfortable clipping your bird's wings yourself, you can talk to your vet about getting your bird's wings clipped by a qualified professional. If you opt to do it yourself, you should have a trained professional clip your lovebird's wings for the first time so you can observe her as she trims. She should hold your bird in one hand while trimming with the other hand. She should only trim the first five to six primary flight feathers first. No cuts should be made high up on these long feathers. There are two layers of short feather that lay on top of your bird's longer flight feathers. The short feathers should not be cut during the trim. Instead, the professional groomer should trim about a quarter inch below them, only cutting the primaries. She should follow the angle of the upper, overlaying feathers so the trimmed wings rest nicely against your bird's body and do not irritate your bird by poking into her skin. You should also trim your bird's toenails to keep her feet normally shaped. This will help her grip on the perches in her cage and reduces the chance of her toenails snagged on clothing or fabric. If you are uncomfortable with trimming her nails on your own, let a qualified professional give her a nail trim. Use bird-safe toys or create home-made toys. You can get bird-safe toys at your local pet store. You can also make simple toys with the plastic tops of pill bottles or soda bottles, wads of clean toilet tissue stuffed in a small box, or leaves and branches from safe plants like rose bushes, hibiscus bushes, and mulberry trees. Do not place a mirror in your bird's cage as lovebirds will treat its reflection as a mate. Rotate the toys in your bird's cage on a constant basis so your bird does not get bored of them. Replace any toys that are worn or damaged, as they can injure your bird. Always introduce a new toy to your bird in a neutral location before you place the toy in her cage so she can get used to it. Wash your hands before and after you handle your bird. Germs that your bird carries can be transmitted to humans, and vice versa, and this can cause serious illnesses for you or for your bird. Take your bird out of her cage for play on a daily basis. Do this in increments of 30 minutes throughout the day to keep your bird well-socialized. Most birds enjoy hanging out on their owner's shoulder, snuggling up to their necks, or hiding clothing like sweaters or scarves. When lovebirds get bored, they tend to chew on clothing and jewelry and pull off buttons. Protect your clothes when your bird is out of her cage by wearing clothing that do not pull. You should also avoid wearing any necklaces when your bird is with you. There are “birdie necklaces” available made from bird-safe chain with small bird toys attached to the links that you can wear so your bird has something safe to play with. Train your bird to “step up” onto a perch in her cage or a toy. Do this by tapping on the toy and gently instructing her to step up. This training will help to control any territorial behavior, which usually occurs when your bird reaches sexual maturity. During this time, your bird may bite any object that comes near her nest area or the cage. Teaching her to step up will help her move away from her territory without biting and help her to calm down. Speak softly and move slowly around your bird. Lovebirds are intelligent and sweet birds and tend to get along well with people. They can “talk” like other parrots, though they do not have extensive vocabularies. Engage your lovebird by talking in low tones and encouraging your bird to respond to you or repeat your words. Birds can be scared to death. Frightening your bird can cause enough stress to harm and possibly kill her. Avoid making quick movements or loud noise around your lovebird. Predatory animals such as cats, dogs, and ferrets should never have direct contact with your bird. Take your bird to the vet on a consistent basis. Most birds will hide their illness until it is in an advanced stage. So it's best to take your bird to your vet often so she can check for any early signs of illness or potential medical issues. | Don’t worry about buying more than one lovebird or bonding your lovebird to another lovebird. Become familiar with the different lovebird breeds. Look for a lovebird at your local pet store. Search online for lovebird breeders. Take your new lovebird to the vet. Consider confirming the sex of the lovebird. Look for a cage that is at least 18” long by 18” wide by 18” tall at your local pet store. Use perches of different widths, diameters, and textures in the cage. Keep the bird’s cage off the floor and away from drafts, open windows, and the kitchen. Place the cage in a quiet, well lit room. Make sure your bird gets 10-12 hours of uninterrupted sleep every night. Clean your bird’s cage once a week. Give your bird high quality bird food. Integrate fresh fruit and vegetables in your bird’s diet. Feed your bird healthy treat foods. Make sure your bird has access to clean, fresh water throughout the day. Never give your bird alcohol, chocolate, or caffeinated beverages. Give your bird a bath once a week. Dry off your bird well and keep her in a warm room. Decide whether to trim her wings every few weeks. Use bird-safe toys or create home-made toys. Wash your hands before and after you handle your bird. Take your bird out of her cage for play on a daily basis. Train your bird to “step up” onto a perch in her cage or a toy. Speak softly and move slowly around your bird. Take your bird to the vet on a consistent basis. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Provide-Preventive-Veterinary-Care-for-Your-Dog | How to Provide Preventive Veterinary Care for Your Dog | To provide preventative veterinary care for your dog, take your dog to the vet once a year for an annual exam. During the exam, your vet will check for heartworm and other intestinal parasites, which can affect your dog's blood flow, breathing, and liver function. They may also administer any scheduled vaccinations against viruses like rabies and distemper. Additionally, talk to your vet about about health risks associated with your dog's breed, like breathing problems or skin diseases, so you can learn how to care for your dog's specific needs. | Take your dog to the vet at least once a year. Every dog should see a vet at least annually, regardless of breed. In addition to age and breed related considerations, a general preventive care routine involves: Vaccinations. Heartworm and internal parasite testing. Consultation and evaluation of behavior and diet. Physical examination, including dental, body, and muscle condition. Consultation about spaying and neutering or counseling about breeding and reproductive health, depending on your needs and preferences. Get your dog vaccinated and keep vaccines updated. Core vaccinations vary according to your jurisdiction's regulations. In most locations, your dog will need vaccines against rabies, distemper, and parvovirus. Talk to your dog's vet about non-core vaccinations against germs that are more common in particular areas. Examples of non-core inoculations that your vet might recommend include vaccines against Bordetella bronchiseptica, Borrelia burgdorferi, and Leptospira bacteria. Once you've completed initial vaccinations, annual vet exams will ensure they remain up to date. Prevent heartworm and other internal parasites. Heartworm, which is carried by mosquitoes, can affect blood flow, breathing, and kidney and liver functions. Your dog's vet will test it for internal parasites like heartworm and provide preventive medication, such as a monthly pill. Symptoms of parasite infection are often hard to recognize or not present, especially in early stages. In late stages, your dog might show shortness of breath, cough, or tire easily. Preventive parasite treatment for puppies should begin between six and eight weeks. Internal parasites like heartworm are life-threatening but are absolutely preventable with routine vet care. Consult your dog’s vet about its specific health needs. In addition to general canine healthcare, your dog's preventive care plan should include more customized attention for its specific breed, age, and lifestyle. Remember, choosing a vet who's familiar with your dog's breed and potential breed-specific health risks is essential to its health. A vet will provide blood screening and physical assessments if your dog is predisposed to problems like joint disorders, organ or gland issues, or bloat and other digestion issues. They'll also offer location-specific recommendations. For example, they can let you know if flea and tick prevention is especially vital in your location, and if certain products are more effective against pest populations in your area. Familiarize yourself with your dog’s specific health risks. While it's important to choose a good vet who is familiar with general canine care and any breed-specific needs, you should also inform yourself about potential health risks. Search online for health information about common canine health risks and to learn more about your dog's breed or mix of breeds' specific risks. For example, some toy dogs with smaller teeth are more prone to serious gum diseases. Basset Hounds, Dachshunds, and other breeds with extremely modified body forms are at a higher risk of developing joint issues. Brachycephalic or “smush-faced” breeds like bulldogs and pugs have issues breathing, with skin irritation and infections, and with staying cool in hot weather. Your local breed club or rescue group can help you learn more about caring for your dog's specific needs. When you purchase a dog from a breeder, be sure to ask for its parents' medical records. Their medical history will inform you about potential genetic disorders and help you and your dog's vet create a more customized preventive care routine. Ask friends, family, or neighbors to recommend a vet. Think of people you trust who own a dog and might have service expectations similar to your own. Ask them who their vet is and why they chose that vet. If you're comfortable enough with that person, ask them how much they pay for preventive care services. Contact a local breed club to find a vet for your purebred. Search online for a breed club or breed rescue group in your area. Contact them and ask if they have recommendations or if they have a close relationship with a local vet. Ask if they can recommend a vet who's well-versed in your dog's breed-specific health risks. Choose a vet that's convenient and affordable. Take hours of operation, location, and parking into account when selecting a vet. Ask about the emergency services they offer, and ask for a referral to an emergency clinic if you choose a vet who doesn't offer emergency care. Shop around and compare preventive care costs. Ask trusted friends or family how much they pay for their vet. Find multiple options and make sure your selection fits your budget. Look for a vet accredited by the American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA). Ask your dog’s current vet for a referral if you’re relocating. You'll need to find a good vet in your new location in order to maintain your dog's preventive care. Ask your dog's vet if they have colleagues or recommended vets in other cities. If they don't have any recommendations, get in touch with any pet owners you know in your new location. Call a local animal shelter or breed club if necessary. Ask your dog's current vet to fax its medical records to the new vet once you've selected one. Keep up with preventive care to avoid costly medical conditions. Remember that preventive care is less expensive than treating a life-threatening disease. Do your best to schedule and keep your dog's vet exams, keep up with vaccinations, monitor parasites, and maintain other elements of canine healthcare. For example, vaccinating your dog against a disease, even if the vaccine isn't mandatory, is much less expensive than providing treatment if your dog gets sick. Monitoring your dog for parasites and providing preventive medication will cost less in the long run than caring for a dog with heartworm. Keep up with your dog’s grooming. Maintaining your dog's hygiene and grooming will reduce the risk of illness, which will help cut its overall healthcare costs. Brush your dog's teeth daily, just as you would brush your own teeth. Use gauze or a cloth, water, and toothpaste for dogs. Don't use toothpaste that's meant for people on your dog. Trim your dog's nails if you start to hear clicking when it walks. Nails that are too long interfere with its gait and is harmful to its ankle and knee joints. If your dog has skin folds, clean them out weekly to prevent irritation and infection. Use warm water and a cloth to wipe away any buildup, then towel dry thoroughly. Find organizations that offer financial assistance. If you're having trouble affording preventive care for your dog, there are plenty of organizations that can offer help. If you live in the United States, you can search the American Humane Society's resource list, which offers dozens of national and state organizations. Look online for breed-specific financial aid groups, or contact your local breed club and ask about assistance options. You can also get in touch with your local animal shelter and ask about other financial aid options in your particular area if preventive care becomes unaffordable. Pet insurance can also make preventive care more affordable and help with costly treatments if your dog gets sick or injured. | Take your dog to the vet at least once a year. Get your dog vaccinated and keep vaccines updated. Prevent heartworm and other internal parasites. Consult your dog’s vet about its specific health needs. Familiarize yourself with your dog’s specific health risks. Ask friends, family, or neighbors to recommend a vet. Contact a local breed club to find a vet for your purebred. Choose a vet that's convenient and affordable. Ask your dog’s current vet for a referral if you’re relocating. Keep up with preventive care to avoid costly medical conditions. Keep up with your dog’s grooming. Find organizations that offer financial assistance. |
https://www.wikihow.life/Get-Perfect-Skin | How to Get Perfect Skin | To get perfect skin, wash your face twice a day with a gentle cleanser and cool or warm water to remove bacteria. After you wash your face, apply a moisturizer to replenish your skin. You should also try to avoid touching your face throughout the day, since this can transfer dirt or grime to your skin. If you want to use toners or exfoliants, do so sparingly, since they can irritate your skin if you use them too often. Along with these skin treatment steps, make sure you get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep each night, since adequate amounts of sleep give your skin time to rejuvenate. When you're in the sun, wear sunglasses, a sun hat, and long sleeves, which will protect your skin from damage. For after sun care, take a bath or shower to cool down your skin before applying moisturizer. | Use a gentle cleanser. To have perfect skin it is important to wash your face regularly, preferably twice a day. However, you want to wash your skin gently to avoid irritating it. Simply use your fingers to gently rub in a non-irritating cleanser and then rinse it off with cool or warm water. With skin cleanliness in mind, try to avoid touching your face throughout the day. Touching your face transfers dirt and grime onto your face. This can cause breakouts. Apply moisturizer. Once you have cleaned your face, apply a moisturizer to replenish it. Pick a moisturizer that is right for your skin type. If you have oily skin, you will want a moisturizer that is really light as well as non-comedogenic. If you have super dry skin, you will want a moisturizer that is a bit thicker. Apply moisturizer right after you wash your face, while your face is still a bit moist. This will help to trap in the water, hydrating your skin even more. Use a moisturizer on your face that contains sunscreen, so that you get double protection. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends a sunscreen with an SPF of 30. Use possible irritants sparingly. Toners, exfoliants, and astringents can be too harsh on many people's skin, causing more damage than help. For example, exfoliating your face can remove dead skin cells and brighten your complexion, but it can also irritate your skin. Instead, a regular practice of gentle cleansing should keep your skin in tip top shape without having to strip your skin. If a product immediately burns or irritates your face, take it off immediately. This is a sign that it is too harsh. If you feel like you really need to exfoliate, try a gentle one. For example, use an exfoliant with a soft silicone exfoliator pad, as opposed to the rough seeds, husks, or pits used in many exfoliants. This will be more gentle on the skin. However, gently rubbing a gentle cleanser onto your skin with a washcloth is probably all you actually need. Take care of blemishes. If you have a breakout in a specific area, cleaning the area with a gentle cleanser and then treating it with an over-the-counter medication is often the best course of action. Choose an acne medication that is gentle on the skin and is formulated for your specific type of skin, whether it is oily, dry, or sensitive. For example, medications with salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, or alpha hydroxy acids are often useful for people with moderate acne breakouts. Use “non-comedogenic,” “non-acnegenic” and oil-free cosmetics, toiletries and sunscreens. Consider using a specialized cream. There are a whole range of specialized creams that you'll also want to add to your inventory if you want perfect skin. For example, serums are perfect if you have that one small spot on your face that's always a little dry and flaky. They're basically a heavily concentrated moisturizing spot treatment. Under-eye gels may work wonders for dark circles and bags. Seek professional help. If you have skin problems that you are unable to clear up on your own with over-the-counter products, go to a professional for help. A dermatologist should have a variety of treatments that they can suggest for your particular issue. They can prescribe you a prescription medication that is made specifically to address your skin problems. There are some skin issues that can be treated but may never be totally cleared up, such as the chronic skin condition psoriasis. While conditions such as this cannot be totally eliminated, dermatological care is very important to keep symptoms at bay. See your doctor if your blemishes, or acne, do not clear within 4-6 weeks or if it becomes painful or infected. Watch your diet. You don't need to go on an extreme diet just for the sake of your skin, however, simple changes can make a lot of difference. Try to include more fruits and vegetables in your diet. Drink lots of water every day. These things can really help to keep your skin in good shape. If you're eating a lot of greasy, fatty, and unhealthy food, this can affect your skin tremendously. Foods like white grains (bread, rice, pasta) and sweets have been linked to acne. Foods with lots of antioxidants, vitamin C, or omega-3 fatty acids can help improve the health of your skin. These include, but are not limited to: dark chocolate, pomegranates, strawberries, blueberries, olive oil, avocado, and fish. Get plenty of sleep and exercise. Taking care of your overall health can have a really positive effect on your skin's health. Take the time to get enough sleep, as this helps your body to rejuvenate itself, helps to put more moisture in your skin, and creates new healthy cells. Exercise is important because it releases endorphins and elevates the amount of energy your body has to complete essential processes. Remember, if you get all sweaty from exercise, take a shower or bath afterwards and gently wash your face. This will help to keep your skin in great shape by removing any bacteria that has built up in your pores. Limit sun exposure. One of the most important things you can do to keep your skin in perfect shape is to limit sun exposure. Wear sunglasses, a hat, long sleeves, and long pants in the sun if you can. Try to cover up as much skin as you can. Even better, if you have the choice between staying in the shade and going into the sun, choose the shade. Not only will the sun age your skin, sun exposure is the biggest preventable risk factor for skin cancer. Use sunscreen. If you need to be out in the sun, use sunscreen. It is advised that you use a sunscreen that is at least 30 SPF in order to keep the ultra-violet rays of the sun at bay. Remember, sunscreen needs to be reapplied every so often, so look at the directions for reapplication on your particular sunscreen and follow them. Some people worry that they will not get enough Vitamin D if they keep out of the sun, as sun exposure does give you Vitamin D. If you are worried about this, consult with your doctor about supplements or eat more foods high in Vitamin D, such as fish, milk products with added Vitamin D, and fortified cereals. Give your skin after sun care. If you do accidentally get too much sun, you should care for your skin afterwards. Take a bath or shower to cool down your skin and then take the time to heavily moisturize. Drink lots of water following a sunburn. This will help to moisturize your damaged skin. Keep a sunburn out of the sun. It's important to allow this skin to heal completely without damaging it further. Don't wear excessive makeup. Using less makeup decreases the chances of blocking your pores and causing breakouts. This does not mean that you can't wear any makeup. It just means that you should balance your need for makeup with your skin type. For example, try not to use thick, all over foundation. It can clog your pores. Instead, try a lighter coverage, such as mineral-based powder. There are makeups that are formulated to help skin breakouts. If you choose to use one of these, make sure that the one you use is created for your skin type, whether it be oily, sensitive, or dry. Going to bed with makeup on is especially bad for your skin. Nightly removal clears makeup build up. | Use a gentle cleanser. Apply moisturizer. Use possible irritants sparingly. Take care of blemishes. Consider using a specialized cream. Seek professional help. Watch your diet. Get plenty of sleep and exercise. Limit sun exposure. Use sunscreen. Give your skin after sun care. Don't wear excessive makeup. |
https://www.wikihow.fitness/Perform-the-Plank-Exercise | How to Perform the Plank Exercise | To perform the plank exercise, kneel on your hands and knees on a yoga mat, with your hands directly beneath your shoulders and your knees below your hips. Exhale and push your bottom back towards your feet while lowering your chest to the mat, a position called child's pose. When you are ready, push your body back up onto your hands and knees, then straighten your elbows and legs, rising up onto the balls of your feet. Keep your abs engaged and don't let your bottom rise up. Hold this position for 3-5 breaths, then lower yourself back to child's pose. | Begin on all fours. If you are new to yoga or not especially flexible, prepare yourself to perform plank pose by starting on all fours. Make sure that you will be comfortable by using a yoga mat. You may also place a folded up blanket under your knees if you need some extra padding for your knees. Make sure your hands are directly beneath your shoulders and your knees directly beneath your hips. The tops of your feet can either be flat on the floor or you can curl your toes if you choose. Inhale and exhale evenly through your nose. If you can, make a slight sound like the sea when you breathe. This is called ujayyi breathing and can help you flow through your routine more effectively. Exhale and push back to child’s pose. To do child's pose, or balasana, remain on your hands and knees and move your bottom back towards your feet. Allow your thighs to spread out to the same width as your shoulders as you do this and sink your chest towards the mat. Your hand should stay out in front of you with your palms on the yoga mat. Stretch your arms and head forward and breathe through this pose. You can rest your forehead on the mat as well. Allow your shoulder to relax and release as you sink deeper into the stretch. Hold this pose for about five breaths or for as long as you like. Hinge forward to plank pose. When you are ready, push your body up from child's pose and back onto your hands and knees. Then, move into a plank pose, or kumbhakasana. Position your shoulders over your hands and straighten your legs as you rise up onto the balls of your feet. When you are in position, you should look like you are preparing to do a push up. Make sure to keep your abs engaged and spine long. Don't pop your bum up. Your feet should be hip width apart and flexed with your heels pushing backwards for extra stability. Keep your elbows close to your ribs, and pull your shoulders down and away from your head to keep them from collapsing, which will lengthen your neck. Drop down to your forearms if desired. You can stay up on the palms of your hands if you want, or you can drop down onto your forearms to make the plank a little more challenging. This variation is called the dolphin plank pose. Make sure to keep your spine straight and your bottom down, as with the regular plank pose. Direct your face and eyes towards the floor as you hold the pose. Breathe for three to five breaths as you hold this pose. When you are finished holding your dolphin plank, get back onto your hands and knees so that you can move into child's pose. You can either drop down onto your stomach and then rise up onto your hands and knees, or you can move back up into a plank on your palms and then get onto your hands and knees. Return to child’s pose. After you've stayed in plank for three to five breaths, exhale, get onto your hands and knees, and then hinge back to child's pose. Give your body a chance to rest in child's pose for a few breaths before you proceed with any further poses. Inhale and exhale steadily for as many breaths as you like. You can do another plank after you finish with child's pose, or finish your practice here. Try advanced plank poses. Once you've mastered the full plank, you can challenge yourself with more difficult variations. Don't progress to these until you are strong enough to keep your body straight and stable throughout the entire movement. Do a single leg plank by slowly lifting one foot at a time off the ground. Then, lower that leg after a few breaths and repeat on the other side. Do a single arm plank by slowly reaching one arm out in front of you. After a few breaths, lower that arm and repeat with the other arm. Make sure your hips remain stable and don't rock from side to side. Finish your plank practice. After you've done a few rounds of plank pose, finish your practice. From the plank pose, gently lower your knees to the floor. Then, transition into child's pose again and breathe. Take three to five breaths in child's pose to complete your routine. If you want some extra rest, stay in child's pose for longer. Start on your hands and knees. If you are new to yoga or not especially flexible, prepare yourself to perform side plank pose, or vasisthasana, by starting on all fours. Make sure that you are on a yoga mat to make the position more comfortable. You can also place a folded blanket under your knees for some extra padding. Position your hands directly beneath your shoulders and your knees directly beneath your hips. Take a few breaths and hold this position. Push your seat to your heels. Keeping your hands in the same place, push your seat back towards your heels. Keep your hands palms down on the mat in front of you. This position is called child's pose, which is also known as balasana. Stay in this position for three to five breaths. Get into plank pose. From child's pose, inhale and hinge forward at your hips back onto your hands and knees. Then, get into a regular plank pose, or kumbhakasana. Take a few breaths and hold this position. Remember to keep your abs engaged and your spine long. Don't let your bottom stick up. Keep it aligned with the rest of your body. Keep your feet hip width apart and flexed, with your weight resting on the balls of your feet. Keep your chest open by pulling your shoulders down towards the mat. Roll your body to the right. Exhale and roll your body to the right while lifting your right arm and placing your right foot and leg over your left foot and leg. Your left arm and left leg should be supporting the weight of your body. Hold the side plank, or vasisthasana, for three to five breaths. Maintain proper alignment to build muscle and minimize the risk for injury. Your supporting hand should be straight and slightly in front of your shoulder. Keeping your palm firmly placed on the floor and engaging your triceps muscle can help stabilize you. Your left arm, hand, and fingers should be extended fully towards the ceiling. Make sure to engage your core and your back muscles. It may help to imagine that you are pressing against a wall that is behind your body as you hold this pose. Return to plank pose. After you've held the side plank for three to five breaths, inhale and roll yourself back into plank pose, kumbhakasana. Stay here for a breath or two to give yourself a rest before performing side plank on your left side. Roll towards your left side. Exhale and roll your body to the left, so that your right arm and right leg are supporting your body weight. Follow the same procedure as you did for your right side and hold this pose for three to five breaths before finishing your side plank practice. Attempt different variations of side plank. If you've mastered side plank pose, you can attempt more difficult variations of side plank. Remember to practice these asanas only when you've mastered side plank to help minimize the risk of injury. In a simple side plank, you can push your lower hip upwards to engage your obliques more. This will also stretch your right flank more deeply. You can also do side plank with one leg by raising the top leg slightly off of the bottom leg. Do this for one to two seconds. End your side plank practice. Once you've done a couple of rounds of vasisthasana, end your practice by returning to plank pose and then to child's pose. You can finish either in child's pose or on your hands and knees like you began your practice. | Begin on all fours. Exhale and push back to child’s pose. Hinge forward to plank pose. Drop down to your forearms if desired. Return to child’s pose. Try advanced plank poses. Finish your plank practice. Start on your hands and knees. Push your seat to your heels. Get into plank pose. Roll your body to the right. Return to plank pose. Roll towards your left side. Attempt different variations of side plank. End your side plank practice. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Sue-for-Defamation | How to Sue for Defamation | Before suing for defamation, first make sure you can prove that someone published a false, negative statement about you, then ask them for a retraction of their statement. Next, consult with an attorney who can help you resolve the dispute in arbitration or file a civil complaint. After a complaint is filed, decide whether you want to negotiate a settlement or go to court for a trial. | Analyze the statement. Decide if the statement made against you falls into the category of slander, libel, or the blanket category of defamation. Some states—such as California—still make the distinction. Slander refers to spoken statements such as in speech or over the radio. Libel refers to written defamation such as in a book or newspaper. Since written statements tend to cause injury for a longer period of time, libel can be more harmful than slander. A published statement is also easier to prove after the fact, making it a stronger case when filing a suit. Prove that the statement was published. Published statements make a better case when seeking damages because you can more easily prove the mass exposure of the statement. Legally, "published" refers to information heard by a third party outside yourself and the defamer. Published doesn't necessarily mean printed in a book or newspaper, although that also counts. A published statement can also be made public in the following ways: On television or radio. In a speech. On a leaflet or picket sign. In loud conversation, which you could prove with the help of witnesses. Via gossip, which you could prove if you have an email chain or other witnesses. Via social media sites, including Twitter, Facebook, Youtube, and others. Prove the statement was false. A defamatory statement must actually be false. If true, you don't have grounds to sue. This includes if it damaged your reputation. Statements construed as opinions aren't considered defamatory in most cases. An opinion is subjective. You can't prove it objectively false. For example, the statement, “I think that Aaron is dumb because he likes ice cream” would be an example of an opinion since the person making the statement provides a basis for the opinion (i.e., Aaron likes ice cream). On the other hand, the blanket statement, “I know for a fact that Aaron was convicted of murdering his mother in Texas” would unlikely be considered an opinion since the person reading or hearing the statement would have to assume damaging facts. Prove that the statement caused injury. You must show that the statement harmed you in a concrete way. Assess how the statement affected you. Determine whether you can prove that your life changed for the worse because people believed the statement and now view you differently. If nobody believed the statement, then there was no real harm. If you've lost work, are shunned by friends and family, or were harassed as a direct result of the statement, you can consider it to be injurious. If you already had a bad reputation (or if most people didn't seem to believe the statement), it will be hard to prove that you were defamed by this particular statement. Prove “special damages. ” For slander in particular, you have to prove “special damages.” “Special damages” refer to damages that are capable of being calculated, typically to the dollar. Examples include lost earnings or lost future earnings. Some states, including California, use a “defamation per se” standard, which means that the statements are defamatory on their face. The four most common examples include: the implication that you have a contagious disease, such as HIV; that you committed a criminal offense; that you are unchaste or committed adultery; or that your professional reputation is called into question. Determine if the statement is protected by “absolute privilege. ” In some legal situations, people are asked to make statements without having to worry that they will get sued for defamation. Such statements are protected by “absolute privilege.” For example, a witness could testify falsely in court and the statement may have the same consequences as any other defamatory statement, but that witness is protected by absolute privilege. Other statements protected by “absolute privilege” include statements made during judicial proceedings; statements made by governmental officials; statements by legislators during legislative debates; statements made during political speeches or broadcasts; and statements between spouses. Determine if the statement is protected by “qualified privilege. ” In some circumstances, people have a right to make a particular statement. Such statements are considered “qualified privileged.” For example, statements by an employer about whether a former employee is fit to perform a new job may be protected by the qualified privilege. Other statements protected by “qualified privilege” include statements in governmental reports or official proceedings; statements made by local governmental officials; testimony by citizens at legislative proceedings; statements made in self-defense or made in an attempt to warn others of danger; some types of statements made by former employers to a potential employer about an employee; and statements published in a book or film review considered criticism. Depending on your state, if a statement is protected by “qualified privilege,” the person suing must prove the person making the alleged defamatory statement did so intentionally, recklessly, or with malice, hatred, spite, ill will, or resentment. Inform the publisher and request a retraction. To either file a defamation lawsuit or recover all of your damages, some states require you to inform the publisher that the statement is false and ask for a retraction. If the publishers conduct an investigation and determine that the statement was false and issue a retraction, they can mitigate some of their damages. Meet with an attorney to discuss your case. After conducting your own research and determining you have a case, consult with an attorney experienced with this type of lawsuit. Defamation laws contain gray areas and vary from state to state. Your best chance at success will be to hire an attorney. Your state or county bar association may have free referral services to qualified local attorneys and may also offer free consultations with attorneys who specialize in handling the legal issues relevant to your case. Bring the following information to your meeting: An account of exactly what happened with regard to the defamatory statement and the circumstances surrounding it. Documents, printed publications, email printouts, recordings, and other records of the defamatory statement. Written statements of witnesses (third parties) who either heard or read the defamatory statements made by the defendant. Some type of proof that the statement is not true. Any proof you have that the defamatory statement fulfills the requirements for suing for defamation, such as proof that you lost work, proof that your family no longer talks to you, etc. Consider Alternative Dispute Resolution. With Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR), parties often share the cost of hiring a neutral mediator, who is not necessarily a lawyer, to assist with working out a mutually agreeable outcome. The ADR process includes a neutral third-party evaluation, negotiation, and mediation. ADR is often less adversarial, more efficient, and less expensive than engaging in formal legal processes by filing a lien. Your local county court may have more information about ADR. You can also find a list of ADR resources at: http://guides.library.harvard.edu/content.php?pid=442479&sid=3626842 Consider Arbitration. Arbitration is another form of ADR that allows parties to litigate the dispute without going to court. Arbitration may be binding or non-binding. If the parties agree to binding arbitration, they waive their right to a trial and agree to accept the arbitrator's decision as final. Non-binding arbitration means the parties may request a trial if they do not accept the arbitrator's decision. Fill out a defamation complaint and file your lawsuit. Obtain a civil complaint form from your county civil court. You can often find forms on court websites. You will need to provide the name and address of the person who defamed you, as well as a summary of your case. You also need to provide information as to what damages you seek. You can locate the county you live in by entering your zip code at: http://quickfacts.census.gov/cgi-bin/qfd/lookup If you hired an attorney, your attorney will draft the complaint and file it with the court. If you did not hire an attorney, ask another person to review your complaint. Be sure it's filled out properly and that you include information that will help your case. Get two copies of the complaint: one to keep and one to serve the defendant. Have the defendant served with a copy of the complaint. The process for doing this varies according to the jurisdiction. Note, corporations and limited liability companies (LLCs) often designate specific, assigned agents for service. You can locate a corporation or LLC's registered agent by visiting your Secretary of State's website. You may also check the company's website or call the company and ask who can accept service on behalf of the company. Check with the court clerk, a local attorney, or your state's Civil Rules of Procedure for state specific rules and regulations. Common methods of service include the following: Personal service - Personal service means the hand delivery of the document by someone other than yourself. All states require that the person delivering the document(s) is at least 18 years old. Many also require that the party delivering the document(s) sign and file with the court an affidavit of service, describing how he or she delivered the document. First Class U.S. mail - Most mail you send and receive is likely sent this way. Although serving many types of court documents via first class mail is acceptable, it may not be in the case in your state. Be sure to check with the court clerk to find out if this is an acceptable method of service. Certified mail - Certified mail, whether a return receipt is requested or not, is almost always an acceptable form of service. However, you should double check with the court clerk to ensure that your state allows service in this manner. Negotiate a settlement, if possible. Once the defendant and his or her attorney see the proof of defamation, they may be willing to discuss a settlement and avoid going to court. If your aim is to receive damages, this may be the best option for you. If you want to restore your good name, you might decide to go to court instead so you have the chance to bring the truth to light. Go to court if necessary. Be prepared to present evidence proving that the statement made against you is untrue and injurious. Remember that if the defendant can prove that the statement is actually true, the case will be dismissed. Discuss your options regarding trial by jury or a bench trial. A bench trial is a trial where only the judge hears the evidence and rules on whether you have suffered harm to reputation. You can find more information regarding what to expect if the case goes to trial at How to File a Lawsuit. | Analyze the statement. Prove that the statement was published. Prove the statement was false. Prove that the statement caused injury. Prove “special damages. Determine if the statement is protected by “absolute privilege. Determine if the statement is protected by “qualified privilege. Inform the publisher and request a retraction. Meet with an attorney to discuss your case. Consider Alternative Dispute Resolution. Consider Arbitration. Fill out a defamation complaint and file your lawsuit. Have the defendant served with a copy of the complaint. Negotiate a settlement, if possible. Go to court if necessary. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Hint-to-a-Boy-That-You-Like-Him | How to Hint to a Boy That You Like Him | Hinting to a boy that you like him is all about flirting with him, hanging out with him, and showing an interest in the things he likes. Try to make lots of eye contact with him and smile whenever he's around. Laugh at his jokes when he says something funny. You can also touch his arm lightly when you talk or laugh. Compliment him on the things you like about him and ask him about the things he's interested in, like sports, video games, or bands he likes. The more interest you show in him, the more he'll pick up that you like him. Just remember not to hang around him all the time or be too nosy, so you don't scare him off. | Make eye contact as much as possible. Whenever the two of you are talking, always look him in the eye. This will show that all of your attention is fixed on him. When someone else says something funny, try to catch his eye again while you laugh. The eye contact will make him feel like you two are sharing the joke. Don't stare at him from across the room. This may come across as creepy. Instead, if your eyes happen to meet, give him a small smile and then look away. Laugh at his jokes. Don't laugh at every single thing he says, but laugh when it's clear he's trying to be funny. Make sure it sounds natural though so it doesn't seem like you're faking it. If he's trying to make a joke that isn't very funny, offer him a smile so he sees you're enjoying listening to him. Don't feel like you have to laugh at a joke you find offensive. It's more important to stick to what you believe in than to make him feel good about himself. Sit close to him. When you have the opportunity, pull your chair close to his or scoot closer to him on a bench. Try to get just inside his “personal zone,” which is about 18 inches (45 cm) away. Don't get too much closer than this unless you notice signs that he likes it. Look to see if he leans in close to talk to you or if he seems to be leaning away from you. Touch him casually when talking or laughing. Whenever the two of you are chatting, find small reasons to touch him. If he says something funny, place your hand on his arm for a moment while you're laughing. Don't linger too long though since he may not want you just hanging on to him. Try letting out a small gasp, as if you just remembered something, and grabbing his arm or shoulder as you tell him what it is. Avoid touching his leg unless the two of you are close friends. This is a much more personal action that may come across too strong if you don't know each other well. Show up to his extracurricular activities. If he plays a sport or is in a band, go to one of his games or performances. Make sure you stick around for awhile afterward to say hi so that he knows you were there. Showing your support for the things he works hard at will help get the message across that you're interested in him. Only go to things he told you about or are common knowledge. Don't show up at something you discovered by reading all his Facebook comments. Lend him a book or movie. If there's a book or movie that you really enjoyed, ask him if he's read or seen it. If not, lend it to him and tell him you want to know what he thinks of it. This will show you were thinking of him, and it will give you a good conversation starter the next time you see him. If it's a movie, you could also invite him over to watch it with you. This is a good casual way to find out if he wants to spend extra time with you. Bring him food or a drink. Does he have one snack or beverage that you always see him with? Maybe there's a certain soda he drinks every afternoon, or he's constantly eating potato chips. If you know you're going to see him, show up with two – one for him and one for you. That way it looks like you thought of him, but not that you went out of your way just to get it for him. Ask him to teach you something. If he plays video games but you don't, ask if you can come over to his place sometime so he can teach you how to play. If he plays golf, tell him you want to learn how to swing a club. The request will flatter him and buy you an opportunity to get closer to him. If he says no but doesn't have a good reason, this may be a sign that he doesn't return your feelings. Talk to him about his interests. Whether he's into sports, video games, movies, or books, talk about these subjects with him. Show him you have an interest in the things that make him who he is. If you don't know anything about these subjects, do a little research. You don't have to be an expert, just learn enough to start a conversation. Read the highlights from his favorite team's most recent game, then ask him if he caught any of it. Research upcoming video games that will be released soon and ask him if he plans to buy one of them. Don't lie and pretend you know more than you do about these things. Be honest and say something like, “I don't know much about it, but it looks cool.” Follow up on things you've talked about before. Show him you pay attention to what he says. Whenever you see him, ask him about something you discussed the last time you were together. If he said he had a big math test coming up, ask him how he did on it. If he mentioned his dog was sick, ask something like, "Hey, is Bella feeling any better today?" Compliment him. Don't pepper him with compliments every time you see him, but find small ways to fit them in. If he shows up wearing a shirt that looks new, or he seems more dressed up than usual, tell him he looks nice. Or, if he has a favorite t-shirt he wears a lot, tell him you like it with a simple "That's such a great shirt." Compliments don't always have to be about appearances. Tell him he has great taste in music or that he's a good artist. Ask for his advice. Showing him you trust and respect his opinion is a good way to hint that you like him. Ask him something trivial, like, “What movie should I watch this weekend?” or ask something more serious, like, “How should I deal with this fight with my friend?” Be sure to follow up with him the next time you see him and tell him how it went. Text or email him about something that reminded you of him. Find a funny photo or gif and text it to him, saying “This made me think of you.” You'll show him not only that you think of him while you're apart, but also that you associate humor with him. It doesn't have to be funny. Pick an interesting article online and send him the link, saying something like, “This reminded me of our conversation yesterday.” Come out and say you like him. If all else fails, don't be afraid to just be honest. Maybe he has trouble picking up on hints, or maybe he's too shy to make the first move. Try simply saying, “Hey, I really like you, do you want to go out sometime?” If he says no, tell him that's ok. Say something like, “Never hurts to ask,” then smile and start talking about something else. | Make eye contact as much as possible. Laugh at his jokes. Sit close to him. Touch him casually when talking or laughing. Show up to his extracurricular activities. Lend him a book or movie. Bring him food or a drink. Ask him to teach you something. Talk to him about his interests. Follow up on things you've talked about before. Compliment him. Ask for his advice. Text or email him about something that reminded you of him. Come out and say you like him. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Increase-Breast-Milk-Production | How to Increase Breast Milk Production | To increase your breast milk production, allow your baby to nurse frequently for as long as they want, since stimulating your breasts more will cause your body to produce more milk. During each feeding session, offer your baby both of your breasts, which tells your body you need more milk. Looking after a newborn baby can be exhausting but try to schedule a little relaxation time for yourself every day or listen to calming music while you breastfeed, since too much stress can hinder your milk production. You should also aim to eat 450 to 500 extra calories a day while you're breastfeeding to ensure your body has all the nutrients it needs for you and your baby. Try to drink at least 6 glasses of fluids a day too, which will keep you hydrated. | Consume a minimum of 1,800 calories a day and drink at least 6 glasses of fluids while you are lactating. The exact number of calories vary by activity level and other factors, but as a general rule, your body needs 450 to 500 extra calories per day as compared to your regular diet. For active women, this could mean as many as 2,500 total calories daily.Unsurprisingly, what you eat has a big impact on the quality and quantity of the milk produced. Here are some general guidelines for you to remember about diet and breast milk: Find excellent sources of calcium. These will help your little baby's little bones grow healthy and strong. Calcium-rich foods include dairy products (opt for organic dairy products, however), leafy green vegetables, and certain fish (sardines and salmon). Eat fruits and vegetables. Make fruits and vegetables a big part of your diet, as they are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber. Opt for complex carbohydrates. Complex carbs are healthier than processed carbs, which you may by and large avoid. Complex carbs include such things as brown rice, whole-grain pasta and bread, as well as beans. Opt for lean meat. Lean meat is better than fatty cuts. Think skinless chicken breast, fish, low-fat dairy products, and soy products like tofu. Consult your doctor about using prescription or herbal supplements to increase breast milk. Herbs that work well include fenugreek, blessed thistle and red raspberry. The prescription drug metoclopramide is sometimes used as a last resort by doctors to treat low milk production in nursing mothers. Be aware that there is limited evidence on the effectiveness of herbal supplements. It's believed that fenugreek and blessed thistle help with lactation by increasing the hormones prolactin and oxytocin, which are both necessary for milk production. Supplement feedings with pumping. Pumping is beneficial for two reasons. First, pumping allows you to store breast milk when your baby doesn't need it, allowing you amass and store more expressed milk. Second, pumping stimulates the production of more breast milk. Invest in a high-quality pump. Pumping isn't exactly the spice of life, so it pays to invest in one that works well. You can rent a hospital-grade pump if you don't own a high-quality, double pump. Whether you are at work or at home, consider pumping for 15 minutes every couple of hours. Either that, or pump for 5 to 10 minutes after nursing. Pumping at least 8 times during a 24-hour period will help to quickly increase breast milk production. If you can't pump immediately after nursing, try to pump halfway in between feedings. Pump both breasts at the same time. Pumping both breasts will give you twice as much breast milk twice as fast in addition to helping stimulate more production. Limit the use of pacifiers and bottles while you're trying to make more breast milk. This makes sure all your baby's sucking needs are met at the breast. As the baby gets older, it will be easier for him to go back and forth from breast to pacifier without you losing important breast stimulation. If you are using bottles for supplementing, try to replace those with a syringe or spoon. Relax. Loads of stress can hurt your ability to produce milk. Try to relax before pumping or breastfeeding by playing soothing music, looking at pictures that produce happiness, or just having a moment with the love of your life. If you want to, try putting warm compresses on your breasts or massaging them for a short period right before you intend to pump or breastfeed. Allow your baby to nurse frequently for as long as he wants. The more often your breasts are stimulated, the more milk your body makes. At least 8 feedings in a 24-hour period is ideal, more if possible. If you normally feed on a set schedule, allow the baby to feed on demand to increase your breast milk production. Practice undressing your baby to stimulate skin-to-skin contact during breast feeding. Undressing your baby while he breast feeds may help him feed longer. (Longer sessions mean more production of breast milk.) Undress your baby down to his diaper, but drape a blanket over his back to ensure that he doesn't get cold. Take off your bra and wear a shirt that can be unbuttoned on the front to promote skin-to-skin contact. Try sling feeding. Wearing a sling and keeping your baby close to the ultimate food supply should encourage him to feast more frequently. Some babies tend to feed more when on the move. Offer your baby both breasts at every feeding to let your body know to make more breast milk. Switch breasts as soon as your baby slows down. It's best if you can switch again and offer each breast twice during a single feeding session. Let your baby nurse for as long as possible-until he falls asleep or detaches. Try taking a nursing "vacation. " For a day or two, take your baby to bed with you and do nothing but nurse when the urge hits your baby. Of course, you get to go to the kitchen and the bathroom and hit other motherly duties, but this vacation is all about you and your newborn. During this vacation, take advantage of nap nursing, which is exactly what it sounds: sleeping with your baby ever-close to his favorite food. This relaxes both mother and child. It also increases the stimulation of milk-producing hormones. | Consume a minimum of 1,800 calories a day and drink at least 6 glasses of fluids while you are lactating. Consult your doctor about using prescription or herbal supplements to increase breast milk. Supplement feedings with pumping. Limit the use of pacifiers and bottles while you're trying to make more breast milk. Relax. Allow your baby to nurse frequently for as long as he wants. Practice undressing your baby to stimulate skin-to-skin contact during breast feeding. Try sling feeding. Offer your baby both breasts at every feeding to let your body know to make more breast milk. Try taking a nursing "vacation. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Floam | How to Make Floam | To make floam, dissolve 2 teaspoons of borax in 1/2 cup (120 ml) of water, and set the mixture aside. Next, combine 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water and 1/4 cup (60 ml) of glue in a separate mixing bowl. If you like, you can also add a few drops of food coloring to the glue mixture. Then, pour the glue mixture into a plastic bag. Add 1 cup (128 g) of styrofoam beads. Then, pour the borax solution into the bag. Seal the bag securely and knead the mixture until it reaches a jelly-like consistency. Remove the floam from the bag and enjoy! | Gather your materials and prepare your work area. You will need water, borax, white all-purpose glue, food coloring, polystyrene beads, a teaspoon, a mixing bowl, a cup, and a plastic zipper storage bag. Protect your work surface with a layer of newspaper or an old tablecloth. Polystyrene (also called styrofoam) beads can be found at most craft stores and hobby shops. They are often used as the filling for bean bag chairs and certain types of pillows If you don't want to spend extra money buying polystyrene beads, you can make your own out of block styrofoam. Simply shred the block using a cheese grater. Dissolve two teaspoons of borax in half a cup of water. Measure two teaspoons of borax and add to the cup. Pour half a cup of water into the cup. Stir until the borax is well-dissolved. Set the borax and water mixture aside while you prepare the other ingredients. Use one teaspoon of borax instead of two for a gooier floam. Use three teaspoons for a more solid floam that better holds its shape. Make a glue mixture. Measure a quarter cup of room temperature water into a large mixing bowl. Blend in a quarter cup of white craft glue. To color the floam, add a few drops of liquid or paste food coloring. You can mix your food colors together to create new colors. Try to match the glue mixture to your exact favorite color! Pour the glue mixture into a plastic zipper bag. Have one person hold the bag open while another pours from the bowl. Add in your remaining ingredients. Add about one and one third cups of polystyrene beads to the glue mixture. Next, pour in your borax solution. The exact amount of polystyrene beads can vary. If you want a thicker floam, use more. For a thinner floam, use less. Knead the bag thoroughly to mix. Seal the bag securely. Squish the bag between your hands to knead it. After a few minutes of mixing, the floam should become jelly-like. Once it reaches this semi-solid state, your floam is ready for play. Store your homemade floam properly. To prevent drying, keep your floam in either the bag you used to make it or transfer it to another airtight container. While it can sit at room temperature for a while, it's best to store the floam in the refrigerator. This will keep it fresh and free of mold for much longer. Gather your materials. You will need two crayons, vegetable oil, water, flour, polystyrene beads, a knife, a pan, and a stovetop or hot plate. This method should be done by adults only. The crayons should be from the same color family. For example, maroon and scarlet can be used together since they are both types of red. Chop up your crayons. If the crayons are wrapped in paper, remove and discard it first. Using a sharp knife, slice up each of the two crayons into small pieces. The thinner the sections, the faster and easier they'll be to melt. Heat the oil in the pan. Set your stovetop to medium heat and place your pan on the burner. Measure out two tablespoons of vegetable oil and add it to your pan. Make sure that the oil doesn't get too hot. If your oil starts to pop or burn, turn the heat down. Melt the crayon pieces. Add the chopped crayons into the hot pan. Gently stir the crayons and oil to mix. Once the crayons have completely melted into a liquid, move on to the next step. It's normal for some crayons to be clumpy or goopy at this stage. Others will be smooth and creamy. Add water and flour. Slowly stir two cups of water into the melted crayon mixture. While continuing to stir, add two and a half cups of flour. Add the flour is smaller portions to make blending easier. Stir your mixture until it is well-blended and takes on a uniform consistency. At this stage your dough should be relatively solid and pull together. If it is still sticky, add another half cup of flour before moving on. Pour your dough onto a chopping board. Turn off your stove and transfer the dough onto a clean cutting board. Wait a few minutes for the dough to cool down enough for you to comfortably touch it. Knead in the polystyrene beads. Once the dough has cooled, use your hands to knead the dough for a minute or two. Next, add in some polystyrene beads and keep kneading. The exact amount of beads you'll need will vary. You'll want to add enough so that your floam is relatively thick and holds its shape well, but not so much that it crumbles apart. Add a half cup of polystyrene beads at a time until your floam reaches the right consistency. Store your floam properly. Since your floam is made from flour and oil, it can grow mold and go bad just as quickly as bread can. Refrigerate your floam when not in use to extend its lifespan. It's also a good idea to keep your floam in an airtight container or zipper bag to prevent it from drying out. Put about ½ cup of white craft glue in a mixing bowl. Measure about ½ cup of white craft glue out and place it into a medium-sized bowl. If you want to make several floams in different colors, use separate bowls for each ½ cup of glue. Squirt contact solution into the bowl. There's no exact amount for this, just squeeze the bottle into the bowl for about 2 seconds. Use a spoon to stir the glue and contact solution together. Add food coloring. Use any color you want! Start off with 2 or 3 drops, then stir it into the glue mixture. Evaluate the color. If you want your floam to be darker or brighter, add a few more drops of food coloring and stir again until fully incorporated. Add the Styrofoam beads. Add approximately 2 tablespoons of Styrofoam beads into the bowl and stir vigorously to fully incorporate the mixture. Add 1 to 2 additional tablespoons of the beads (depending on the consistency you want) and mix well again. If you need to add more, continue in this way until you're satisfied with the texture. Mix baking soda and water in a bowl. Measure out approximately a tablespoon of baking soda and place it in a clean bowl. Add about ½ cup of water to the bowl. Mix well until the baking soda dissolves and is fully incorporated. Pour about 2 teaspoons of the baking soda mixture into the floam. Mix vigorously until fully incorporated. If it seems a little too thick, add half a teaspoon or so of the baking soda mixture and mix well. Your floam is now ready to play with! To extend its shelf life, store the floam in an air tight container in the refrigerator when it's not in use. | Gather your materials and prepare your work area. Dissolve two teaspoons of borax in half a cup of water. Make a glue mixture. Pour the glue mixture into a plastic zipper bag. Add in your remaining ingredients. Knead the bag thoroughly to mix. Store your homemade floam properly. Gather your materials. Chop up your crayons. Heat the oil in the pan. Melt the crayon pieces. Add water and flour. Pour your dough onto a chopping board. Knead in the polystyrene beads. Store your floam properly. Put about ½ cup of white craft glue in a mixing bowl. Squirt contact solution into the bowl. Add food coloring. Add the Styrofoam beads. Mix baking soda and water in a bowl. Pour about 2 teaspoons of the baking soda mixture into the floam. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Reptiles-for-Vitamin-A-Deficiency | How to Treat Reptiles for Vitamin A Deficiency | If your reptile has a vitamin A deficiency, you can treat it by including more beta-carotene-rich foods in its diet like mustard greens, papayas, mangos, or sweet potatoes. Avoid foods like bananas, white potatoes, and lettuce since they are particularly low in beta-carotene. Next time you take your reptile to the vet, ask about what kind of foods your reptile's specific species needs to maintain a healthy weight and support its immune system. If your reptile has a severe vitamin A deficiency, consider asking your vet about supplements, which can be injectable or given by mouth. Because of the risk of vitamin A toxicity, only a vet should give your reptile a vitamin A injection. | Give your reptile beta-carotene-rich foods. A healthy diet is critical to treating vitamin A deficiency in reptiles. Beta carotene is a substance found in food that is converted to vitamin A in the body. Foods rich in beta carotene will give your reptile the vitamin A he needs to be healthy. Examples of beta-carotene-rich foods are dark, leafy greens (e.g., mustard greens, turnip greens) and brightly-colored fruits and vegetables (e.g., papayas, mangos, sweet potatoes, yellow peppers). Examples of beta carotene- poor foods are bananas, white potatoes, and lettuce. Do not feed these to your reptile. Even if your reptile eats a lot of beta-carotene-rich foods, there is little risk of vitamin A toxicity, since excess beta carotene does not get converted to vitamin A. Fresh vegetables can lose their vitamin content over time. Consider placing the vegetables in vegetable bags to keep them fresh for longer. Continue feeding your reptile a species-specific diet. Your reptile will need to eat more than just beta-carotene-rich foods to have a complete and balanced diet. For example, carnivorous (meat-eating) reptiles need a meat-based protein. If you have an aquatic or semi-aquatic turtle, which is a carnivore, feed him earthworms and gut-loaded insects (insects with nutrient-rich food in their guts). Lizards, such as bearded dragons and chameleons, also eat insects (e.g. grasshoppers, crickets) and different types of worms (e.g., earthworms, butter worms, silkworms). Consult with your vet to make sure you feed your reptile a healthy diet. Feed your reptile a fresh, high-quality commercial diet. A high-quality commercial diet is also important for treating vitamin A deficiency. Talk with your veterinarian if you're not sure what type of commercial diet to feed your reptile. They can give you recommendations based on what type of reptile you have (e.g., lizard, turtle) and whether it is a carnivore, herbivore (plant-eating), or omnivore (plant- and meat-eating). Trout food is a commercial diet for turtles. Keep a food diary. During treatment, keep a daily log of your reptile's diet. Record the amount and types of food you feed him, and what he actually ends up eating. You may find that your reptile likes some foods more than others. Keeping a food diary will help your vet monitor your reptile's treatment progress. Weigh your reptile regularly. Loss of appetite and weight loss can occur with vitamin A deficiency in reptiles. As your reptile improves his diet and starts eating more, he will start gaining weight. You may notice the weight gain just by looking at him, but weighing him will help you know just how much weight he's gained. On a weekly or monthly basis, weigh your reptile on a digital reptile scale, which you can find online or at a pet store. Record your reptile's weight each time you weigh him. Give your reptile a vitamin A supplement. Vitamin A supplements are effective in treating vitamin A deficiencies in reptiles. Supplements can either be injectable or given by mouth. Because a high, sustained dosage of injectable vitamin A supplementation can cause vitamin A toxicity, it is usually reserved for severe cases of vitamin A deficiency. Oral vitamin A supplements can be added to a reptile's food. If your reptile needs injectable vitamin A, ask your vet to administer an oil-based, not water-based, injection. Water-based vitamin A injections have a high risk of toxicity. Injections should be given only by your veterinarian. Your vet will recommend a supplement for your reptile, based on the severity of the vitamin A deficiency. Do not use vitamin A eye drops. Vitamin A eye drops are found at pet stores. Although they are marketed to treat vitamin A deficiencies and eye infections, these eye drops are usually not very effective. In addition, if you start giving them to your reptile before seeking veterinary treatment, you could prolong overall treatment. Treat infections. Vitamin A deficiency can weaken the immune system, making your reptile susceptible to infections. Mouth, eye, and skin infections occur with vitamin A deficiency. If your reptile has infections, your vet will prescribe medications (antibiotics, antifungals) to treat the infection. These medications can be given by injection, by mouth, or applied directly to the affected area. If you have an aquatic turtle that needs topical medications (applied directly to the affected area), you will need to apply the medications more frequently, since the medication will come off in the water. Improve your reptile’s cage environment. Sometimes, swollen eyes in reptiles can be due to low cage humidity or dry substrate (e.g., sand). Improving the cage environment could reduce the eye swelling without the need for extra medication. If you have a box turtle, which is semi-aquatic, give him deep, moist soil to dig in and a pool where he could soak. If your turtles needs a lot of humidity, increasing the cage humidity could relieve the eye swelling. Strategies for increasing humidity include misting the cage once or twice a day with room temperature water and placing a large water dish in a warm section of the cage. Cage requirements vary according to reptile species. Research what the ideal cage environment should be for your specific type of reptile. Schedule follow-up visits with your vet. During treatment, your vet will want to monitor your reptile's progress. During these visits, your vet will examine your reptile's eyes, weigh him, and check for improvement of infection. Your vet will determine how often your reptile needs to come back for checkups. Do not over supplement your reptile. Over supplementation of injectable vitamin A for a long period of time can cause vitamin A toxicity, which is a serious condition in reptiles that can make them very sick. To prevent this toxicity, your vet will lower the injectable vitamin A dosage over time. Fortunately, as your reptile's diet improves, he will need less supplementation. Recognize the signs of vitamin A toxicity. Signs of vitamin A toxicity (swollen eyes, sloughing skin, skin ulcerations) resemble those of vitamin A deficiency. Because of this similarity, it may be hard to tell if your reptile has vitamin A toxicity. However, if your reptile's condition does not improve, or gets worse, with injectable vitamin A, he may have this toxicity. A vet can also have a hard time telling the difference between vitamin A deficiency and toxicity. Consequently, they may mistakenly give a reptile injectable vitamin A when it is not deficient in this vitamin. Treat vitamin A toxicity aggressively. If your reptile has vitamin A toxicity, treatment needs to be long term and aggressive. Treatment often includes antibiotics and/or antifungal medications, fluid therapy, and assisted feeding. Unfortunately, prognosis for vitamin A toxicity is usually not good because of infections and organ failure. | Give your reptile beta-carotene-rich foods. Continue feeding your reptile a species-specific diet. Feed your reptile a fresh, high-quality commercial diet. Keep a food diary. Weigh your reptile regularly. Give your reptile a vitamin A supplement. Do not use vitamin A eye drops. Treat infections. Improve your reptile’s cage environment. Schedule follow-up visits with your vet. Do not over supplement your reptile. Recognize the signs of vitamin A toxicity. Treat vitamin A toxicity aggressively. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Icing-for-Cookies | How to Make Icing for Cookies | To make sugar cookie icing, start by mixing powdered sugar and milk in a small bowl. Next, add corn syrup and vanilla extract, and blend everything together with a mixer or a spoon until the icing looks glossy and smooth. To check if your icing is the right consistency, paint it on top of a room temperature cookie and check to see if it's dripped over the edges after a few minutes. If it has, add powdered sugar; if it's too thick and hard to spread over the cookie, add corn syrup. Once it's perfect, coat the rest of the cookies and serve. | Gather your ingredients. This simple recipe for sugar cookie icing only takes fifteen minutes to make. It yields enough icing for twelve to fourteen cookies, depending on the size of the cookies. Bake your sugar cookies before you start on the icing. They must be completely cool before you can ice them. Corn syrup is optional. It can be substituted with granulated white sugar. Combine the powdered sugar and milk. Measure out the ingredients and place them into a small bowl. Mix them together until the mixture is smooth. You can mix them together manually by stirring or you can use a mixer on its lowest setting. Add the corn syrup and vanilla extract. Measure out the ingredients and add them to the bowl. Use your mixer to blend it all together. Keep beating the icing until it appears smooth and glossy. Stop mixing and test the consistency of it. The icing needs to be thick enough to stay on the cookies and thin enough to easily paint onto the cookies. For a slightly different taste, replace the ¼ teaspoon (1.2 ml) of vanilla extract with ¼ teaspoon (1.2 ml) of almond extract. Test the icing on a cookie. Use a few of your pre-baked sugar cookies as testers. They must be completely cooled before you try to ice them. Paint a small amount of icing on the edges of the cookie. Allow it to dry for a few minutes, then check to see if the icing dripped over the edges. If there is no dripping, your icing is ready to use. If your icing is too thin, mix small amounts of powdered sugar into the icing until it thickens up. If you can't easily paint the icing onto a cookie, it is too thick. Add small amounts of corn syrup to the icing and stir until you reach the right consistency. If you're planning on coloring the icing and making multi-color cookies, make some of the icing slightly thicker to use as "border icing" (the icing used to trace around the cookie). Use slightly thinner icing as "flood icing" (the icing that fills in the middle area of the cookie). The thicker border icing will help to keep the thinner flood icing on the cookie. Divide the icing and add food coloring. Place small amounts of the icing into separate bowls so that you can add the food coloring. Add a different color of food coloring to each bowl. Use a few drops at a time and then stir together well. If you want the color to be darker, add a few more drops and stir. Apply the icing to the sugar cookies. You have a few different options for application. You can dip the cookies into the icing. You can also paint the icing on with a clean paint brush or spread it onto the cookies using a knife or the back of a spoon. You can also use a piping bag to apply the frosting. Squeeze bottles and using spoons to pour icing are two additional methods that will yield excellent results. Using a piping bag will give you the most professional-looking results. Dipping the cookies is probably the easiest way, but painting will allow you more control. Gather your ingredients. Royal icing is one of the most popular sugar cookie icings. This simple recipe only calls for three ingredients and takes 7 minutes to make. The recipe yields 3 ½ cups (455 grams) of icing. Only use fresh, refrigerated egg whites with fully intact shells to prevent the slight risk of salmonella or other food-borne illness. Beat the egg whites and vanilla together. Combine the pasteurized egg whites and vanilla extract in a large bowl. Beat the ingredients together with a mixer on low to medium speed. Continue to beat until the mixture appears frothy and light. Add the confectioners' sugar. Measure out the sugar and add it to the bowl gradually, 1 cup at a time. Use the mixer's lowest setting. Continue to mix until the sugar is fully combined. The mixture should look shiny. Set your mixer to its highest setting and continue to beat for about 5 to 7 minutes. The mixture will become stiff and glossy. Add food coloring (if desired). If you want icing in colors other than white, divide small amounts of it into separate bowls, then add the food coloring of your choice to each. Add a few drops and stir well. If you want the color darker, add a few more drops. Ice your sugar cookies. Make sure you put icing on cookies that have completed cooled first. Transfer the icing to a pastry bag and pipe it on as desired. A heavy duty storage bag will also work great for piping, simply clip the corner and proceed. Place any leftovers in an airtight storage container in the refrigerator. Use within 3 days. Gather your ingredients. You can whip up this easy cream cheese frosting in fifteen minutes and you only need four simple ingredients to do it. The recipe yields enough icing for up to 24 cookies. You can use cream cheese frosting on sugar cookies, but it works well on other kinds of cookies, too. Oatmeal , pumpkin , ginger and carrot cake cookies are some of the most popular choices. Mix the butter and cream cheese together. Remove the two ingredients from the refrigerator and allow them to sit out at room temperature until they have softened. This usually takes about fifteen minutes. Place the softened butter and cream cheese into a large bowl. Use an electric mixer on its lowest setting to beat them together well. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Keep your mixer on its lowest setting. Add 1 cup (130 g) of the powdered sugar to the cream cheese mixture and beat until smooth. Add the remaining cup of powdered sugar and continue to beat. Speed up your mixer to the medium setting. Add the vanilla extract. Continue to beat the mixture until it looks creamy and smooth. Make sure there are no lumps of butter or cream cheese remaining in the mixture. Turn the mixer off. Use a spoon the scrape the sides of the bowl, in case any powdered sugar is lingering there. Stir it vigorously a few times. Frost your cookies. Pre-bake the cookies of your choice and allow them to cool completely. This frosting is very smooth and creamy, so you can spread it on with a spoon, spatula, butter knife or any other similar tool. If you want to make a large batch of frosting, it stores very well if kept in an airtight container. The cream cheese icing will keep in the refrigerator for up to one month and in the freezer up to three months. Gather your ingredients. This delicious chocolate buttercream frosting will take you less than fifteen minutes to make. It works very well on chocolate cookies. You can use it with other cookies of your choice, as well. If you want regular buttercream frosting , simply omit the cocoa. Put all of the ingredients into a large bowl. Allow the butter to soften at room temperature for about fifteen minutes before you begin. Once it's softened, place all of the ingredients into a large bowl. Use a mixer to combine them until the mixture looks creamy and fluffy. Check the consistency. The frosting should be airy, fluffy and easy to spread. If it's not, add a little more milk and beat it again. Continue until it reaches the desired thickness. Make sure the end result is smooth, with no lumps of butter remaining in the mixture. Spread the frosting on the cookies. Bake the cookies of your choice ahead of time. Let them cool completely before frosting them. This fluffy buttercream will spread very easily, so use a spoon or spatula to apply the desired amount to cookies and other pastries. If you have any leftovers, put them in an airtight container. The frosting will last up to two weeks in the refrigerator. It will last up to three months in the freezer. | Gather your ingredients. Combine the powdered sugar and milk. Add the corn syrup and vanilla extract. Test the icing on a cookie. Divide the icing and add food coloring. Apply the icing to the sugar cookies. Gather your ingredients. Beat the egg whites and vanilla together. Add the confectioners' sugar. Add food coloring (if desired). Ice your sugar cookies. Gather your ingredients. Mix the butter and cream cheese together. Add the powdered sugar and vanilla extract. Frost your cookies. Gather your ingredients. Put all of the ingredients into a large bowl. Check the consistency. Spread the frosting on the cookies. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Good-Grades-in-Tests-with-Little-Studying | How to Get Good Grades in Tests with Little Studying | While reviewing your material is always important, there are a few techniques you can try to get good grades on tests with little studying. The day before the test, reread your notes, which will save you from having to read through your textbook. Besides reading your notes, you can work with friends to cut down on study time. Discuss the main ideas and take turns quizzing each other. When it's time for the test, focus on the questions you know well first. Then, go back over and guess on the questions you don't know. That way, you won't miss easy points. If you have time, go over your test when you're done to make sure you didn't make any mistakes. | Think about the material before you come to class. You usually know what your class is going to be about because your teacher assigned you some kind of material ahead of time. As you are getting to class, think about what you will be covering that day, mentally preparing yourself for the time ahead. This process will get you in the right frame of mind and help you absorb information better. Go to class. If you're in high school, you really don't have the option not to show up, but in college, you're in charge of your own time. One of the easiest ways to earn good grades without studying much is to show up to your classes and listen to what your teacher has to say. That means not just showing up but being attentive as well. In addition, many professors will make attendance and participation a part of your grade. Therefore, just attending will contribute to you making better grades. If you don't show up enough, you lose those points. Sit in the front row. It may be tempting to sit in the back row, out of sight and mind of your professor. However, you'll be better able to see what your professor is writing on the board at the front, and you'll be able to hear her better. You'll also be less tempted to let your mind wander. Ask questions. If you're confused about something, don't be afraid to ask a question. Your teacher will be happy to shed some light on what's confusing you, and other students will likely have the same question. Be interested. It may sound difficult to do, especially if the subject is something you don't like, such as math. However, start out by feigning interest, if you have to. Psych yourself up, saying how much you love math. Try to find parts of it that do interest you, even if it's a small part. Being interested in what you're learning helps you to take in information more effectively. Always look for the main points. Your teacher will likely clue you in to what's important by writing main ideas on the board or emphasizing it with her voice. She may even repeat the main ideas to make sure the class is understanding what's important. Constantly be asking yourself what the main ideas and main points are, so that you are using your time in class to think about and absorb the ideas. Take good notes. Taking good notes does not mean writing down every word your teacher says. In fact, that often means you aren't absorbing the information, just re-writing it on the page. You also won't be able to keep up, unless you are taking notes on a computer and can type very fast. Therefore, it's best to write down notes with a few words or short sentences that capture the main points. For instance, if your teacher says, "We're talking about verbs today. Verbs are the action of the sentence. There are two main types of verbs, being and action verbs." You could write: "Verbs: action of sentence. 2 types: being, action." It's a good idea to use shorthand or abbreviations to make your writing faster, but be sure to be consistent so that you always know what you wrote. Though you can capture more with a computer, studies have shown that taking notes by hand actually helps you learn more than taking notes on a computer. Don't get distracted. It's tempting to stop being interested if the room is too hot or people are talking. Maybe the day is really nice outside, or you just don't feel like being there. Commit yourself to paying attention. Block out what's distracting you, and focus only on what the teacher is saying and the class discussion. Everybody's mind wanders sometime. When you find yourself drifting away, bring your focus back to what your teacher is saying. If you absolutely cannot focus or you find yourself going to sleep, try going to the bathroom for a short break to splash water on your face, if your teacher will let you. Type or review your notes after class. If you hand-wrote your notes, try typing your notes when you get back home. Typing them will reinforce the information in your brain, helping it to stick for longer. If you typed your notes in class, try re-reading them when you get back home. Make a schedule. When you get homework assignments, schedule in time for each of them. Stick to your schedule, so that you always get your homework done on time. Do your homework. Your homework counts for part of your grade, so turning in your homework is important. However, don't just do enough of the work to pass. Actually take the time to work through the assignment. Your homework and reading is a way to reinforce what you're learning in class, and if you take the time to learn it effectively now, you won't have as much studying to do later. Read critically. Don't just skim through your textbook. Read each sentence thoroughly, taking in the information. If you have a hard time paying attention, try reading it aloud to yourself or a friend. Take some time to look at what the main ideas are. It may help you to take notes on the main ideas, just so you have a general overview. Plus, writing down will help reinforce the information. Organize your notes, homework, and tests. Have a folder or binder for each class, and keep your notes, homework, and tests organized by section and date. That way, you know where all the materials on one topic are, and you can pull them out to review later. Get the hard subjects out of the way first. You'll be working on it when your brain is fresher, which will make it easier than if you tried to do it when your brain is tired. Also, once you get it out of the way, you'll feel like you've done something big. In addition, your other work will seem easier after the hard stuff. Take breaks. Studying for too long without breaks can wear you down. In addition, you'll stop absorbing information as well. Be sure to take regular breaks at least once an hour. Get up and walk around. Get a cup of tea. Do jumping jacks, or go talk to a friend for a few minutes. Just take a mental break, and you'll be more prepared to jump back in. Don't procrastinate. Though you need to take breaks, when it's time to study, you need to study. Don't doodle, or write random notes in the margins. Actually get down to work when you're supposed to, and you'll cut down significantly on your study time. Skip around subjects. Instead of trying to study one subject for hours, skip from subject to subject, especially if you have several tests ahead. For instance, try moving subjects when you take a break. This type of studying keeps you more interested in what you're learning, helping you to learn what you need to know faster. Use a study guide or the syllabus to make a plan. If you don't have either one, you'll have to use your class notes or textbook to determine your plan. Basically, you need an overview of what you need to cover for the test. You can make an outline by using the main headings in your textbook or using the main concepts you covered before this exam. Once you have all of the concepts you need to cover, set aside a certain amount of time to cover each one, based on the amount of time you want to spend in total covering the exam. You don't need to give equal time to each concept. If you know one concept better than another, focus more time on the one you don't know. If one concept is more complex, it might need more time than other concepts. Review your notes. One of the best ways to study for a test is to review your class material. Read over the notes you've taken in class. Skim through the headings of the chapters you read in the time before this exam to ensure you're covering everything you need to do. However, don't try to re-read chapters, as that will take more time than you have to study for the test. Have discussion groups. Work with your friends to study more effectively. It's more fun to work in a group, and as long as you stay on topic, it can be very effective. Discussing ideas engages you in the material, making it easier for your to absorb information. For instance, if you're trying to study a book for a test, try using an online study guide to spark discussion with your friends. You can find discussion questions for most classic works of literature. For something like math, try having mini competitions. Take one problem, and see who can solve it the fastest. If someone is having trouble, walk through the problem with him or her to help her understand it. Whether you're doing the explaining or need the explanation, you'll be solidifying the information more quickly. Connect ideas. Most people try to learn by using rote memorization; that is, they read something over and over until it sticks. A more effective way to learn is to connect what you're learning now to something you already know. By pulling it in to your web of ideas, you make it stick more quickly. For instance, say you're trying to learn the circulatory system of an animal. You can compare the parts of the body to a train system, where the main train station is the heart, while the big train routes moving away from the station are the arteries and the ones moving to the station are the veins. Try flashcards. If you find networking ideas isn't working for you, try flashcards to help your rote memorization. Flash cards help you learn because they force you to repeat the concept over and over. Plus, they allow you to quiz yourself on the topic. Just write a word or something you need to learn on one side, and then write the definition or what's connected to that concept on the other side. Flashcards work best with study concepts that have two parts, such as words and definitions, events and dates, or the name of an equation and the equation. Another way flashcards can help is they allow you to study just what you don't know. Once you've definitely learned a concept or word, you can take it out of the set of cards, focusing your time on learning what you don't know. Focus your study on the type of test you're taking. For instance, if you need to remember dates, flashcards will be more effective. If you're trying to learn how to do problems, working through practice problems is likely the most effective way to study. If you're trying to learn concepts or study literature for an essay exam, working in a group discussion might be the most effective way to study. Write down the facts. If you need to remember a set of facts for the test, write them on the top of the test paper as soon as you're allowed to start writing. That way, you know you won't forget them while taking the test. Always read the directions. The directions may tell you how long your answers need to be or even how many questions you need to answer. It's important to read the directions carefully, or you may lose easy points. Time yourself. Make sure you have enough time for all parts of the test. Take a moment at the beginning to look through the test and see what you have ahead. If you have essay questions, make sure you don't spend so much time on other parts of the test that you don't have time for the essay question. Keep an eye on your time throughout the test. Work to your strengths. If you know you're best at short answer, start with those questions first. That way, you know you will have answered the questions that you are best at, giving you the most points. Read questions carefully. Sometimes your teacher will word questions in a particularly confusing way. Make sure you know exactly what the question is asking before answering. In other words, you don't want to jump to an answer after having only read a few words of the question. Check if you lose extra points for wrong answers. On some tests, you just don't get the points if you answer incorrectly. On other tests, you don't get the points if you skip the question, but if you answer incorrectly, you get extra points taken off. In the first case, guessing on multiple choice does you no harm and may help you. In the second case, you may lose more points than you gain by guessing. Know how to answer multiple choice questions. Multiple choice questions can make it easier for you to answer the question. You don't actually need to supply the answer, as the answer is already there as one of the choices. However, sometimes they can be difficult because two answers seem too similar. Once you've read through the question, decide on what you would answer before looking at the answer choices. That way, you won't be swayed by other answers before coming to a conclusion. If your answer is there, pick it, and move on. If isn't, reread the question to see if you read it wrong. If you're having trouble deciding, eliminate the silly or ridiculous choices. Often, one or two of the answers will be obviously wrong. Put a line through those so you don't have to consider them anymore. If you still can't decide between the other answers, pick one and move on, as long as you're not penalized for guessing. Jot down a quick outline for longer questions. If you need to answer an essay question, make a quick outline first. Just make sure you know what main ideas are going into your essay and how you're going to organize them. It will make your writing go more smoothly. Check your answers at the end. If you have time at the end, go back through, and check your work. If you're taking a math exam, look over your work to make sure you didn't make a silly mistake. Also, check to make sure you didn't miss any questions, as that's an easy way to lose points. Get enough sleep. When you are rested, you retain more information than when you are tired. Therefore, by just getting enough sleep every night, you will retain more information, lessening your need for study time. Eat the right foods. Your body is better able to function when you feed it the best foods. Skip sugary junk food, and stick with square meals that include lean proteins, fruits and vegetables, and whole grains. Your brain will work better when you feed it better. Drink your water. Just like the rest of your body, your brain needs water to function properly. Staying hydrated will keep your brain functioning at its best, so be sure to get enough water everyday. You can count tea, coffee, and juice in your water intake. Just remember, juices are sugary, so don't drink too many ounces of juice. Try adding fruit to water to infuse it with flavor, and make it more enticing. Though the standard rule is to drink eight glasses of water a day, you may need more. Women generally need about 9 cups of water a day, and men need about 13 cups. Get regular exercise. Just like exercise energizes your body, it also energizes your mind. It gets your blood flowing, increasing blood to your brain. Try getting in at least a little bit of exercise everyday. For instance, try taking a short walk or jog when you're taking study breaks. You'll come back energized and ready to get back to work. | Think about the material before you come to class. Go to class. Sit in the front row. Ask questions. Be interested. Always look for the main points. Take good notes. Don't get distracted. Type or review your notes after class. Make a schedule. Do your homework. Read critically. Organize your notes, homework, and tests. Get the hard subjects out of the way first. Take breaks. Don't procrastinate. Skip around subjects. Use a study guide or the syllabus to make a plan. Review your notes. Have discussion groups. Connect ideas. Try flashcards. Focus your study on the type of test you're taking. Write down the facts. Always read the directions. Time yourself. Work to your strengths. Read questions carefully. Check if you lose extra points for wrong answers. Know how to answer multiple choice questions. Jot down a quick outline for longer questions. Check your answers at the end. Get enough sleep. Eat the right foods. Drink your water. Get regular exercise. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Learn-Hindi | How to Learn Hindi | If you're trying to learn Hindi, start by listening to recordings of the alphabet and trying to mimic what you hear. Practice common words and phrases, likes days of the week and times of day. Then try to put basic vocabulary words together to have simple conversations. You may find it easier to learn Hindi by writing the alphabet, which you can do using an online tutorial. | Become familiar with Devanagari Script. Devanagari is an abugida alphabet of India and Nepal and is the main script used to write Hindi, Marathi, and Nepali. It is written from left to right, lacks distinct letter cases, and is recognizable by a distinctive horizontal line running along the tops of the letters that links them together. A chart with the Devanagari alphabet is available here: http://www.omniglot.com/charts/print/hindi.pdf. Study the Hindi vowels. Hindi has 11 vowels, some of which are indicated by the use of diacritic marks, or symbols added to the letters of an alphabet in order to show different pronunciations. Vowels in Hindi have two forms: one form for when they are used by themselves, and one form for when the vowel is joined to a consonant in a word. अ a and आ aa अ does not change the consonant, so if you see a consonant without a modifying symbol, it will have this vowel sound. When आ is added to a consonant, you add the symbol ा to the end of the consonant (for example, न na becomes ना naa when आ is added to it). इ i and ई ee When इ is added to a consonant, you add the symbol ि to the left-hand side of the consonant (before the consonant). When ई is added to a consonant, you add the symbol ी to the right-hand side of the consonant (after the consonant). उ u and ऊ oo When उ is added to a consonant, you add the symbol ु beneath the consonant. When ऊ is added to a consonant, you add the symbol ू beneath the consonant. ए e and ऐ ai When ए is added to a consonant, you add the symbol े above the consonant. When ऐ is added to a consonant, you add the symbol ै above the consonant. ओ o and औ au When ओ is added to a consonant, you add the symbol ो to the right-hand side of the consonant (after the consonant). When औ is added to a consonant, you add the symbol ौ to the right-hand side of the consonant (after the consonant). ऋ ri When ऋ is added to a consonant, you add the symbol ृ beneath the consonant. This vowel isn't very common in Hindi and is only found in Hindi words of Sanskrit origin. Study the Hindi consonants. There are 33 consonants in Hindi. They are organized in the alphabet by how you use your mouth and throat to pronounce them. Because Hindi uses more consonants than English does, some of them have no direct equivalent in English. The (a) next to some consonants indicates that they are pronounced as aspirated (i.e., with a strong breath of air such as p in "pit" or "puff"). Velar consonants, pronounced by using the back of the tongue at the roof of your mouth (e.g., k or g in English): क k , ख k (a), ग g , घ g (a), ङ n Palatal consonants, pronounced by raising the front of the tongue just behind the gums (e.g., j in "job"): च ch , छ ch (a), ज j , झ j (a), ञ n Retroflex consonants, pronounced by curling the tongue backward and touching the roof of your mouth just behind the gums (none exist in English): ञ t , ट t (a), ड d , ढ d (a), ण n Flap consonants, pronounced by "flapping" the tip of your tongue toward the roof of your mouth behind your upper front teeth (e.g., the t softening in words like "butter," which often sounds like "budder") : ड़ d and ढ़ d (a) Dental consonants, pronounced by touching the tip of your tongue behind the back of your upper front teeth (e.g., th in "thin"): त t , थ t (a), थ d , ध d (a), न n Labial consonants, pronounced by using the lips together (e.g., b in "baby"): प p , फ p (a), ब b , भ b (a), म m Semivowels are vowel-like consonants, such as the w in "wet": य y (as in "young"), य r , ल l , व w or v Sibilant consonants, pronounced by using the tip of the tongue to push air out in a hissing noise : श sh , ष sh , स s Glottal consonants, pronounced by using the glottis at thee back of the throat : स h Distinguish between "voiced" and "unvoiced" consonants. Hindi consonants have two basic different ways of pronouncing them: voiced and unvoiced. Reading explanations for these pronunciations may seem a little complicated, but don't worry; once you start trying to practice the sounds, you'll be able to feel the difference between voicing and not voicing. Voiced consonants are pronounced by vibrating your vocal cords. For example, voiced consonants in English include z in "zoo" and g in "good". Unvoiced consonants are pronounced without vibrating your vocal cords. For example, unvoiced consonants in English include s in "snap" and k in "kitten". Distinguish between "aspirated" and "unaspirated" consonants. Hindi consonants also fall into two basic subcategories, unaspirated and aspirated. You can have unvoiced unaspirated consonants, unvoiced aspirated consonants, etc. Aspiration is another term for a burst of air released through your mouth. The only way to really understand how this works in Hindi is to listen to recordings. Listen to a recording of the Hindi alphabet and then try to mimic the recording. The Hindi alphabet may look a little alien to you, especially if you are a native English speaker, but with some practice, you'll be able to understand how to make all the Hindi letter sounds yourself. A video recording of the Hindi alphabet is here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XyG_594WOjE. Once you have listened to the recording a few times, pause the recording and try to mimic the pronunciation of the speaker. Take your time and work your way slowly through alphabet. Learn how to write the Hindi alphabet. You may find it easier to learn the Devanagari script if you can see how it is written. There are several tutorials available online, but the one at hindibhasha.com is widely recommended by university language departments. Become familiar with Hindi nouns. Nouns are words for objects, places, emotions, animals, and people. In Hindi, all nouns have a gender: masculine (M) or feminine (F). The gender of Hindi nouns is essential for proper grammar and communication, so when learning Hindi nouns, you must also learn their genders so you can use the nouns correctly. A very general rule to determine the gender for a noun is words that end with the vowel आ aa are usually masculine and words that end with the vowel ई ee are usually feminine. However, there are many exceptions to this rule, so it's important to still learn the gender of every noun through memorization and practice. For example: The noun for boy is: लड़का larkaa (M) and the noun for girl is: लड़की larkee (F). So in the case of these nouns, the general rule of gender applies. On the other hand, nouns like केला kelaa - Banana (M) and मेज़ mez - Desk (F) or घर ghar - House (M) are all exceptions to the general rule of gender. Become familiar with Hindi pronouns. Simple pronouns like “he, she, I, we, they” are key to communicating in any language, including Hindi. The pronouns in Hindi are: First person singular: मैं main - I First person plural: हम ham - We Second person singular: तू too - You (Intimate) Second person plural: तुम tum - You (Informal), आप aap - You (Formal) A note on informal and formal pronouns: each pronoun is used based on the level of politeness in a conversation. Use the formal आप aap when meeting someone for the first time, talking to someone older than you or simply to show respect to the person you are addressing. Use the informal तुम tum when chatting with your friends or close relatives. Use तू too when you are in a very informal or intimate conversation, such as talking to your partner or to young children. It would be considered extremely rude in Hindi to use तू too when talking to a stranger or someone you barely know. Third person singular: यह yah - He / She/ It / This Third person plural: वह vah - He / She/ It / That In spoken Hindi these words are pronounced slightly differently: यह is pronounced yeh and वह is pronounced voh. Use यह yeh when talking about someone or something close to you, so if someone is standing right next to you, use यह yeh. Use वह voh when talking about someone or something further away, so if someone is standing on the other side of the street, use वह voh. When in doubt, use वह voh. Third person plural: ये ye - These / They Third person plural: वे ve- Those / They You will often hear वे ve being pronounced as the singular “voh”. The third person plural pronouns follow the same rules: ये ye for people / things close to you (in the distance sense) and वे vo for people / things further away. Note that both यह yeh or वह voh could mean either “he” or “she”, so there is no difference based on the gender of how you are talking to. You must rely on the context of the sentence to determine if a person is talking to a “he” or “she”. Become familiar with Hindi verbs. Verbs describe an action, occurrence, or state of being. Learn Hindi verbs in the infinitive form (in English, “to ___”), as verbs are conjugated by dropping the infinitive ending and adding other suffixes. Hindi infinitives end in ना naa. Examples of Hindi infinitives include: होना honaa - to be; पढ़ना pahrnaa - to read or to study; बोलना bolnaa - to speak; सीखना seekhnaa - to learn; जाना jaanaa - to go. Learn the basics of conjugating verbs. Like nouns, verbs in Hindi must be conjugated to reflect grammatical categories such as number, gender, tense, and mood. For example, the infinitive verb होना honaa- to be, conjugated for number becomes : मैं हूँ main hoon - I am हम हैं ham hain - We are तू है too hai - You are (intimate) तुम हो tum ho -- You are (informal) आप हैं aap hain - You are (formal) यह है yah hai - he/she/this is वह है voh hai - he/she/that is ये हैं ye hain - these/they are वे हैं ve hain - those/they are There are three conjugations for gender in the present verb tense: For masculine singular subjects, drop the infinitive ending ना naa and add ता taa. For masculine plural subjects, drop the infinitive ending ना naa and add ते te. For feminine singular or feminine plural subjects, drop the infinitive ending ना naa and add ती tee. Because Hindi verbs have many tenses, you'll want to use a textbook or other reference materials to learn verb conjugations beyond the basic present tense. A good reference dictionary will also help you conjugate new verbs. Continue to practice your conversational Hindi with longer phrases and sentences. Once you become more comfortable with Hindi nouns, pronouns, and verbs, you can move on to studying other elements of Hindi. Purchase a good Hindi dictionary. Oxford University Press publishes the gold standard of dictionaries, the Oxford Hindi-English Dictionary. While smaller pocket dictionaries are fine if you just need to look up a word or two, invest in a more substantial academic dictionary if you are serious about more formal study. There are also Hindi dictionaries online. The University of Chicago's “Digital Dictionaries of South Asia” project includes a dictionary of Urdu and Classical Hindi. Learn the days of the week. Start with basic words that will help you become familiar with how Hindi vowels and consonants work together to create a word or phrase. Focus on recognizing the Hindi words and the Devanagari script. The days of the week are: Sunday, Hindi word: RaveevaaR, Devanagari script: रविवार Monday, Hindi word: SomvaaR, Devanagari script: सोमवार Tuesday, Hindi word: MangalvaaR, Devanagari script: मंगलवार Wednesday, Hindi word: BudhvaaR, Devanagari script: बुधवार Thursday, Hindi word: GuRoovaaR, Devanagari script:गुरुवार Friday, Hindi word: ShukRavaaR, Devanagari script: शुक्रवार Saturday, Hindi word: ShaneevaaR, Devanagari script:शनिवार Learn basic words for time and place. Once you become familiar with the days of the week, move on to other basic Hindi words, keeping in mind the Devanagari script. Yesterday, Hindi word: kal, script:कल Today, Hindi word: aaj, script: आज Tomorrow, Hindi word: kal, script: कल Day, Hindi word: din, script: दिन Night, Hindi word: raat, script: रात Week, Hindi word: haftaa, script: हफ़्ता Month, Hindi word: maheenaa, script: महीना Years, Hindi word: aal, script: साल Second, Hindi word: doosRaa Minute, Hindi word: mint, script: मिनट Hour, Hindi word: ghantaa, script: घंटा Morning, Hindi word: saveRey, script: सवेरे Evening, Hindi word: shaam, script: शाम Noon, Hindi word: dopeheR, script: दो पहर Midnight, Hindi word: aadheeRaat, script: आधी रात Now, Hindi word: ab, script: अब Later, Hindi word: baad mey, script: बाद में Practice common phrases with a partner or with a recording. Learning conversational Hindi is a great way to practice your alphabet skills and prepare you for lessons on basic Hindi grammar. Actually having a conversation in Hindi is the most important way to learn the language. Find a friend in your language class or look online in language forums for individuals looking to practice their conversational Hindi. There are also recordings of basic phrases online that you can refer to. Focus on phrases like: Hi!, Hindi: Namastey!, script: नमस्ते Good morning!, Hindi: Suprabhaat, script: सुप्रभात Good evening!, Hindi: Shubh sundhyaa, script: शुभ संध्या Welcome! (to greet someone), Hindi: Aapka swaagat hai!, script: आपका स्वागत हैं। How are you?, Hindi: Aap kaisey hain?, script: आप कैसे हैं ? I'm fine, thanks!, Hindi: Mein theek hoon, shukriya!, script: मैं ठीक हुँ । And you?, Hindi: Aur aap?, script: और आप? Good/ So-So, Hindi: Accha/ Theek-thaak, script: अच्छा/ ठीक-ठाक Thank you (very much)!, Hindi: Shukriyaa (Bahut dhanyavaad), script: शुक्रीया (बहुत धन्यवाद) Refer to this link for recordings of these phrases as well as more detail about their pronunciation: http://www.learning-hindi.com/convo. Don't be afraid to start speaking the language even if you only know basic vocabulary and grammar. The sooner you start, the faster you will pick up the basics of the language---learning Hindi is really a matter of practice and determination. Use online lessons to practice your skills. There are several universities that offer free online lessons. Find audio and video lessons whenever possible so that you can hear the language being spoken. North Carolina State University offers a series of 24 video lessons that include instruction on script, vocabulary, grammar, and culture, as well as exercises and quizzes. The University of Pennsylvania offers a series of 20 audio lessons that cover the basics of Hindi grammar. Find a good textbook. Once you become familiar with the basics of Hindi vocabulary and grammar, you'll need a more in-depth source to learn the more complicated elements of the language. Try to find a textbook that includes audio elements if possible. Rupert Snell's Teach Yourself Hindi course and book is highly recommended for beginners and includes audio. Elementary Hindi by Richard Delacy and Sudha Joshi comprises a textbook and workbook with audio CD. Sonia Taneja's Practice Makes Perfect Basic Hindi is a workbook full of exercises to help you build on existing knowledge and practice concepts such as conjugation. Read as much as you can in Hindi. Fortunately, there is a wealth of online resources available in Hindi, including newspapers, blogs, and social media. There is also a tradition of Hindi literature dating back to the 760s CE, full of poets, philosophers, and religious writers. Dainik Jagaran is the most popular Hindi newspaper in India. Other important newspapers published in Hindi include Hindustan , Dainik Bhaskar , and Rajasthan Patrika. The BBC also has a BBC India site. The Parikalpana Award is an annual award given to Indian blogs, much like the Bloggie Awards in English. As in most other places, popular social media in India include Facebook, Linkedin, and Twitter. Visiting social media pages in Hindi will give you an accessible “in” to the language and to popular cultural topics. Prominent authors in Hindi literature include Chanda Bardai, author of the Prathviraj Rasau (12th century); Kabir (14th century), a devotional author; poet Ganga Das (1823-1913); novelist Munshi Premchand (19th century); Dharmavir Bharati (20th century); and novelist Jainendra Kumar (20th century). Children's books can be a great place to start because they are written very simply and often include pictures. Learning-Hindi.com has a collection of children's books online. Watch movies in Hindi. India has a huge movie industry, popularly known as “Bollywood”-- it's actually the most prolific film industry in the world, with over 1,000 films released per year. Indians LOVE going to the movies; more tickets are sold in India than in any other country (2.7 billion tickets per year). Many movies in Hindi are released every year, and thanks to online streaming services such as Netflix and content providers such as iTunes, you can watch many of them right from your own home. Watch them in the original language with English subtitles so you can practice your Hindi listening skills. Important films in Hindi cinema include Mughal-e-Azam (frequently ranked the greatest Bollywood movie of all time), the comedy Golmaal , and the drama Kahaani. If you enjoy superhero movies, India has quite a few of them. Popular films include Krrish and Ra.One. Attend Indian cultural events. If you live near a college or university, there will probably be a variety of cultural events hosted by international students. Many towns and cities with high Indian populations have festivals and other cultural events where you can meet new friends and learn about Indian culture. If there is an Indian or Hindu cultural center near you, you can check their events calendar or contact their organizer. If there are no cultural events nearby, look around online! Wesleyan University even maintains a “Virtual Village” where you can explore cultural topics and read interviews with “villagers.” Find friends who speak Hindi. Because so many people speak Hindi, the chances are good that you know people who can speak the language. Particularly if they live far away from home, people will often be happy to chat with you in their native language. Websites such as meetup.com offer you the chance to find groups of people who are interested in leraning more about Hindi language and Indian culture. Meetup currently has 103 groups in 70 countries, but if there isn't one near you, why not start your own? Try striking up a chat with someone in your local Indian restaurant or grocery store. Not only will you get practice with your language, you will learn more about delicious Indian cuisine! | Become familiar with Devanagari Script. Study the Hindi vowels. Study the Hindi consonants. Distinguish between "voiced" and "unvoiced" consonants. Distinguish between "aspirated" and "unaspirated" consonants. Listen to a recording of the Hindi alphabet and then try to mimic the recording. Learn how to write the Hindi alphabet. Become familiar with Hindi nouns. Become familiar with Hindi pronouns. Become familiar with Hindi verbs. Learn the basics of conjugating verbs. Continue to practice your conversational Hindi with longer phrases and sentences. Purchase a good Hindi dictionary. Learn the days of the week. Learn basic words for time and place. Practice common phrases with a partner or with a recording. Use online lessons to practice your skills. Find a good textbook. Read as much as you can in Hindi. Watch movies in Hindi. Attend Indian cultural events. Find friends who speak Hindi. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Keep-Geese | How to Keep Geese | To keep geese, let them roam free all day in a fenced-in pasture. They'll graze on the grass in the pasture, but you should also supplement their diet with geese feed or a mix of grains and seeds. Additionally, set up a large container of fresh water in the pasture so your geese have something to drink. At night, keep your geese in a predator-proof shelter so they can rest safely. | Incubate goose eggs for 4 to 5 weeks. The most affordable way to start your flock is to purchase eggs from a reputable hatchery. Large, commercial hatcheries don't offer the best stock, so check local farm publications or contact your county farm agent to find a reputable supplier. Once you've purchased your eggs, you have 2 incubation options: To artificially incubate the eggs, keep them in a forced-air incubator set to 99 to 99.5 °F (37.2 to 37.5 °C) and 60% to 65% relative humidity. Turn the eggs a half turn 3 times per day; stop turning them 2 to 3 days before the end of incubation. For most geese, incubation lasts 28 to 30 days. If you already keep poultry, a broody hen can incubate the eggs naturally. Keep food and water near the nest so the hen doesn't stray. A hen isn't large enough to turn the eggs, so you'll need to do that yourself. Go with started goslings if you want to skip the incubation period. Look for a reputable breeder in your area who offers day-old goslings. Newly hatched goslings can save you time, but keep in mind you'll still need to invest in brooding supplies. Goslings should be kept in a pen warmed by a heat lamp for about 5 weeks. Whether you purchase day-old goslings or hatch your own, be sure to spend plenty of time with them during the first few days to imprint yourself on them. Imprinting will make it easier to herd and handle the flock. Breed mature geese if you want to handpick your stock. If you're raising geese for exhibition or otherwise need to be selective about your stock, purchase a gander and goose from a reputable breeder. Purchase 2-year old birds in the fall so they'll be acclimated and ready to mate in the early spring. When choosing mature geese, look for clear eyes and healthy plumage. Check for discharges from the eyes, nose, or mouth, and avoid purchasing obese or underweight birds. House goslings in a heated pen for about 5 weeks. Keep newly hatched goslings in a dry indoor pen. Install a heating lamp and set it at a height of 6 in (15 cm) above the baby birds. Maintain a temperature of 90 °F (32 °C) for the first week, then lower the temperature by 5 to 10 °F (−15 to −12 °C) per week until you've reached 70 °F (21 °C). After about 5 weeks, your geese will be hardy and fully-feathered. Keep in mind monitoring the goslings is a better indicator of temperature than a thermometer. If they're huddled together, the brooding pen is too cold. If they're trying to get to open areas away from the heat source, it's too hot. If the weather's warm, you can take goslings outside for fresh air as early as a week after hatching. Just be sure to keep them dry. Take them out only after morning dew has evaporated and keep them inside on rainy days. Keep mature geese in a predator-proof shelter overnight. It's preferable to raise geese on a pasture, but you should still keep them in a secure shed or coop at night. While geese can fend for themselves, they need protection from large predators at night. As a rule of thumb, provide about 6 sq ft (0.56 m ) of space per goose. Since they're hardier than other fowl, they don't require a sophisticated shelter. Just make sure the enclosure has a secure latch, leak-proof roof, and ventilation. Keep bales of hay inside the shelter for roosting, and line the floor with straw or pine shavings. Rake out and replace soiled bedding daily. Roll a wheelbarrow into or just outside of the shelter, and use a pitch fork or rake to remove soiled straw or shavings. Compost the soiled bedding, or use it to mulch around the bases of trees and shrubs. Set up a large container of water if you don’t have a pond. Keep the container outside of the shelter so the bedding doesn't get wet. It should be about 1 to 2 ft (30 to 61 cm) deep, but not so big that you can't change the water regularly. Swimming isn't absolutely necessary, but geese need to submerge their heads in water to keep their nostrils and eyes clean. You'll need to keep a water source inside the shelter, but make sure it's small enough that your geese won't splash around in it. Enclose the flock’s pasture with 5 ft (1.5 m) high fencing. Use heavy-gauge mesh wire and sturdy posts to enclose the flock's outdoor space. Bury the fence about 6 to 12 in (15 to 30 cm) below the ground to help keep out burrowing predators. Geese aren't as prone to flying predators as smaller fowl. However, if hawks or owls become a problem, you may need to build a smaller, covered outdoor run to protect your flock. Allow your geese to graze to reduce food cost. Pasturing your geese reduces food cost by about 50%. Adequate food sources include most grasses, with the exception of alfalfa. Before allowing your flock to graze, cut long grass to a height of 4 in (10 cm) to prevent digestive issues. An acre (0.4 hectare) of pasture can support around 20 geese. Supplement their diet with geese feed or a mix of grains and seeds. Geese can get most of their dietary needs from grazing. However, you should also keep a feeding trough stocked with geese feed or a mix of cracked corn, oats, wheat, and black oil sunflower seeds. If the pasture is thin and isn't supplying enough nutrition, increase the amount of prepared feed you offer. Place the feed in a sturdy container or trough so the geese can't knock it over. While it needs to be heavy, make sure it's small enough that your geese can't jump into it and leave behind droppings. Some geese keepers cut PVC pipe in half and secure it to a wall or fence to make a feeding trough. Commercial geese feed is usually hard to find, but check online or at a local agricultural supplier. If you do purchase store-bought feed, be sure that it's unmedicated and does not contain coccidiostats. Medicated feed is toxic, especially for goslings. Ensure your geese have clean water at all times. From goslings to ganders, geese drink large amounts of water. Change their water at least daily or whenever it becomes soiled. Additionally, they need to drink water periodically when they eat, so be sure to keep fresh water by feeding troughs. Keep water close to the trough, but maintain a distance of 3 ft (0.91 m) or so to prevent the food from getting wet and moldy. If they don't have access to a pond, remember to provide a large container of water so they can clean their nostrils and eyes. Add a finisher feed to their diet if you’re raising them for meat. If you want to fatten your geese, purchase 15% protein poultry finisher pellets. Look for products online or at agricultural supply stores. Check your product's instructions and offer the recommended daily amount of food. Provide a continuous supply so the flock can free feed. Geese raised for meat are ready for slaughter after 12 to 14 weeks. | Incubate goose eggs for 4 to 5 weeks. Go with started goslings if you want to skip the incubation period. Breed mature geese if you want to handpick your stock. House goslings in a heated pen for about 5 weeks. Keep mature geese in a predator-proof shelter overnight. Rake out and replace soiled bedding daily. Set up a large container of water if you don’t have a pond. Enclose the flock’s pasture with 5 ft (1.5 m) high fencing. Allow your geese to graze to reduce food cost. Supplement their diet with geese feed or a mix of grains and seeds. Ensure your geese have clean water at all times. Add a finisher feed to their diet if you’re raising them for meat. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Reduce-Accidents-in-the-Workplace | How to Reduce Accidents in the Workplace | It's important to stay up to date with safety procedures to reduce accidents in your workplace. Make sure that you have working smoke detectors and that fire extinguishers are accessible in every area. Communicate any potential safety concerns, like rewiring and areas under construction, to all of your employees with clear signage and email memos. You should also hire a safety inspector to check your workplace regularly to identify any potential hazards. Consider holding regular training sessions to teach all of your employees how to stay safe in your workplace. You should also have accessible first aid kits and train a few staff members in first aid, which will prevent minor accidents from developing into worse injuries. | Put formal safety policies and procedures in place. Create a company handbook that lists out the steps that must take place in order to prevent accidents in the work place. Include instructions such as how to store dangerous and toxic items and where certain product should be stowed to ensure safe storage and retrieval. Put someone in charge of safety in your company. Discuss the current safety policies with this safety coordinator, and work on a plan to make sure that they are adhered to. Confirm that the person is aware of all the responsibilities associated with safety. Express your support to this person and arrange to meet on a regular basis to discuss concerns about and solutions to further accident prevention. Communicate your expectations for a safe work environment. Let your staff know on a regular basis that safety is a major concern in your business. You can do this verbally and you can reiterate your expectations in memos. You can also post safety information throughout your facility. Words are one thing, but act accordingly, too. If someone encounters a possible safety hazard, move quickly to correct it. Don't wait for it to correct itself or assume that someone else is going to do it. Ask your employees whether they have any suggestions about improving workplace safety. One safety coordinator is certainly helpful, but a handful of ears and eyes is almost always preferable to just one. Create an anonymous input form that employees can fill out at their discretion. Inspect your facility regularly with your safety coordinator. Make certain that your staff is following safety policies at work. Check areas that are of concern and ensure that precautions have been met. If you see an area that is cause for concern, discuss it with the person responsible, and then arrange a meeting with all the staff to further communicate the concern and ensure that it does not happen again. Have the right tools available so that you or your employees don't have to improvise. Asking your employees to improvise pretty much says that you don't take safety seriously. For example, if you have a storage area that includes high shelving, ensure that you have a safe ladder or step-stool available so that you or your staff members are not forced to climb on boxes of furniture to retrieve items. Schedule regular training for all scenarios that pose a risk for accidents. Training should involve methods in picking up and carrying heavy objects and how to use mechanical equipment and tools. The type of training will depend on the type of business you are running. Some businesses such as restaurants and warehouse facilities will have more training than others. Trainings should be scheduled for all new employees and for all employees annually. Employees may think of it as a hassle, but they should be reassured knowing that the company takes their health and safety seriously. Be prepared for a fire in your workplace. Fires are potentially devastating occurrences, putting many businesses, especially restaurants, in jeopardy. Ensure that your workplace is properly protected against the possibility of a fire to cut down on accidents: Make sure smoke detectors are installed and have batteries. Make sure that fire extinguishers are present and properly charged. Ask your fire department, if necessary, to give you training on how to use a fire extinguisher. Plan your escape routes. Know where your nearest exits are and how employees can access them quickest. Consider investing in first-aid training or, at the very least, a first aid kit. First-aid training won't keep the accident from happening in the first place, but it could help keep any injuries incurred during an accident from getting out of control. Invest in a first-aid kit for each floor of your workplace. Place it in a strategically central location that is easily accessible. Create incident reports after each workplace accident. If an accident occurs in your workplace, write up an incident report. Investigate what happened, who was involved, how the accident might have been prevented, and recommendation for further procedures. At the very least, an incident report will foster awareness and possibly act as a deterrent for future accidents. Make sure your workplace entrances and exits are fully operational and easily accessible. If your employees need to get out of the building quickly, make sure that their exits aren't blocked by any large or unmovable objects. This is more than just a workplace violation: this is a potential life or death matter. Clearly mark potential safety concerns with the proper signage and instructions. If an electrician is rewiring an area of the workplace, or if a crew is doing construction on a piece of railing, inform your employees by memo and by placing an appropriate, visible sign near where the potential hazard could occur. Don't assume that people are smart enough to act accordingly. Spell it out for them very clearly. | Put formal safety policies and procedures in place. Put someone in charge of safety in your company. Communicate your expectations for a safe work environment. Inspect your facility regularly with your safety coordinator. Have the right tools available so that you or your employees don't have to improvise. Schedule regular training for all scenarios that pose a risk for accidents. Be prepared for a fire in your workplace. Consider investing in first-aid training or, at the very least, a first aid kit. Create incident reports after each workplace accident. Make sure your workplace entrances and exits are fully operational and easily accessible. Clearly mark potential safety concerns with the proper signage and instructions. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-a-Sneeze | How to Stop a Sneeze | To stop a sneeze, try squeezing your nose shut with your fingers. You can also gently tug on your earlobe when you feel a sneeze coming on. If that doesn't help, try tickling the roof of your mouth with your tongue, which may prevent you from sneezing. If all else fails, try quickly blowing your nose before you sneeze to stop the sneeze in its tracks. | Squeeze your nose. Catch the part of your nose above the tip and stretch it out as if you are removing your nose out of your face. It should not be painful, but simply stretch out your cartilage, stopping the sneeze. Blow your nose. Use a tissue and blow your nose when you feel a sneeze coming on. It should clear your sinuses of what caused the sneeze in the first place. Pinch your upper lip. Using your thumb and forefinger, pinch your upper lip lightly and press it upward toward your nostrils. Your thumb should head toward one nostril and your forefinger toward the other, bunching up your upper lip slightly. Use your tongue. Press your tongue behind your two front teeth , where the roof of your mouth meets the gum palate or alveolar ridge. Press hard with your most powerful muscles against your teeth until the tickling sensation dissipates. Stop, drop, and wait. Find a small table anywhere in your home, hold your face about 1 inch (2.5 cm) from the top of the table and stick your tongue out; the sneeze should subside naturally. It takes about 5 to 7 seconds. If it doesn't work, at least, whoever's around will get a good kick out of it! Get ticklish. Tickle the roof of your mouth with the tip of your tongue when you feel the sneeze coming on. Continue until the urge to sneeze dissipates. This should take 5 to 10 seconds. Distract yourself with your hands. Spread the thumb of one hand away from the fingers. Using the sharp edges of the nails on the thumb and index finger of your other hand, pinch the flap of skin between the spread thumb and the fingers. Grab the spot between your eyebrows. This is a pressure point that some grab to stop a headache, and it can work with sneezes, too. With your thumb and forefinger, pinch between your eyebrows until you feel a substantial amount of pressure. Pinch under your nose. With the side of your forefinger (handheld horizontally beneath your eyes), press into the cartilage on your nose, just beneath the bone of the bridge of your nose. This will pinch one of the nerves involved in triggering a sneeze. Put light pressure on your ears. Wiggle your ear lobe gently as you feel a sneeze coming on. This can be masked as looking like you are playing with an earring or something if you're stifling a public sneeze. Stop someone else's sneeze with an absurd comment. If you see someone about to sneeze, or if they state that they feel a sneeze coming on, say something absurd. Sometimes the brain will 'forget' about the sneeze when it has something more interesting and immediate to focus on. Get angry. Clench your teeth together, but try to stick out your tongue (use the muscle to push against the back of your front teeth). Push as hard as you can! The stimulation may stop the sneeze from materializing. Use black seed (black cumin). You can buy this online or at your local vitamin/herb shop. Take a handful and wrap it in a cloth—handkerchief, washcloth, etc.—then roll it in your hand to break it up a little bit. Hold this next to your nose and inhale it for a few breaths. Your sneezing should clear right up! Quit setting yourself up for snatiation. That's right -- snatiation. It's a legitimate medical disorder where you can't stop sneezing because your stomach is full. It generally happens immediately after consuming quite a large meal. So how do you avoid it? Don't eat so much. In case you're as curious as George, it's a backronym -- Sneezing Non-controllably At a Time of Indulgence of the Appetite—a Trait Inherited and Ordained to be Named. Originally it was a portmanteau of sneeze and satiation. Now that you know it's a real thing monitor your eating activity. When do you usually find yourself sneezing? Know if you suffer from "sun sneezing. " If you find that you sneeze when exposed to bright lights, you could have photoptarmosis or the photic sneeze reflex. It's present in a remarkable 18-35% of people and is sometimes referred to as ACHOO - Autosomal dominant Compelling Helio-Ophthalmic Outburst syndrome. The more you know, right? It's hereditary and can be treated with antihistamines if it's inconvenient. Otherwise, wear sunglasses (polarized, especially) or scarves. If bright lights (or the sun) are present, keep your eyes away and focus on something darker or more neutral. This is doubly important if you are operating a motorized vehicle. Be prepared. If you're entering a high sneeze-risk environment (say a cloud of pepper or a field of pollen), take precautions to keep your sneezing fits at bay. Keep a tissue on hand. Often sneezing and blowing your nose go hand in hand. Have a way to wet your nostrils. This can stop sneezing fits before they start. Though snorting water is definitely a feasible option, you may want to stick with wetting a tissue and applying to your nostrils, using your eyedrops, or sniffing the steam from a cup of coffee. Keep the allergens at bay. For those of us that don't suffer from the completely random sneeze attack and are privy to more constant bouts, it may be more of an environmental thing. In addition to talking to your doctor, be allergy smart. A certain amount of sneezing can be prevented. Get on antihistamines. Not only will these fight sneezing, but they'll keep the coughing, runny nose, and itchy eyes away to boot. Benadryl is known to induce drowsiness, but other medications, like Claritin, have significantly fewer side effects. Keep your windows and doors closed. This goes for your home and in your car. The less exposure you have to allergens the better. The outside needs to stay outside. If you've been outside for a long time, take a shower and change your clothes. You may have dragged in those pollen buggers with you. Know when not to stop a sneeze. A sneeze, known technically as a sternutation, is a major deal for the body. The typical sneeze removes air from your body at speeds up to 100 mph (160 km/h), tremendous velocities that can cause serious injury if incorrectly stifled. That's why you should never try to stop a sneeze that is in progress. For example, do not hold your nose or block your mouth while sneezing. Doing so can cause serious injury. The force and velocity of the average sneeze, if prevented from ejection from the body, can eventually cause hearing loss and damage the blood vessels in your head, especially if you make a habit of stopping a sneeze when it's already begun. Sneeze healthily. If you're around others, you risk spreading harmful bacteria when you let one (or two or three or maybe even four) out into the air. The "spray" you emit can reach up to 5 feet (1.5 m) away from you! That's a radius that encompasses a lot of people. So be careful! If you can, sneeze into a tissue and dispose of the tissue. If a tissue isn't available, sneeze into your sleeve. If you do end up sneezing into your hands, be sure to wash them afterward. Your hands touch doorknobs, your face, surfaces, and other people constantly. And, if you happen to be away from water, carry hand sanitizer to save the day. Sneeze politely. When you're in a group of people, you'll surely be given the evil eye if you wind up for a sneeze and deliver with flying success. You're spreading germs and disrupting the flow, so it's best to sneeze as discretely as possible. Sneezing into your elbow can diffuse the sound. If that's not an option, grab a tissue, tilt your head down, and sneeze as quietly as possible. Sneeze safely. If you have a broken rib, a sneeze can hurt very badly. Exhale as much air from your lungs as you can. This will reduce the amount of pressure placed on your ribs and weaken the sneeze greatly, and the pain will be less. Really, if anything in your core hurts, a sneeze can be the last thing you want to encounter. Take the precautions listed above, but concentrate on the exhale. With little air to expel, your insides won't lurch, preventing the sneeze from having a longer-lasting effect. | Squeeze your nose. Blow your nose. Pinch your upper lip. Use your tongue. Stop, drop, and wait. Get ticklish. Distract yourself with your hands. Grab the spot between your eyebrows. Pinch under your nose. Put light pressure on your ears. Stop someone else's sneeze with an absurd comment. Get angry. Use black seed (black cumin). Quit setting yourself up for snatiation. Know if you suffer from "sun sneezing. Be prepared. Keep the allergens at bay. Know when not to stop a sneeze. Sneeze healthily. Sneeze politely. Sneeze safely. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Find-Out-Whether-a-Girl-Loves-You-or-Is-Just-Being-a-Good-Friend | How to Find Out Whether a Girl Loves You or Is Just Being a Good Friend | To figure out if a girl likes you as a friend or has stronger feelings, pay attention to her body language. For example, if she avoids eye contact, twirls her hair, or leans in close when you're talking, that's a good sign! Look to see if she treats you differently than her other guy friends, or if her friends start to tease you when you're in a group together. When she's talking, keep an eye out for phrases like “I love spending time with you,” or “You're so funny,” because these are cues that she's into you! | Look for eye contact. If a girl looks down when she first sees you, or if she lowers her head while smiling, it's a strong indicator that she's attracted to you. It can be hard to look someone in the eye when you have strong feelings that are not yet exposed. Triangulation describes a pattern of eye movement that is a strong indicator that a girl is into you. She will look at one eye, then the other, then your mouth, and then repeat the sequence. Watch for hair twirling. Playing with hair causes blood to flow and makes you feel connected with your body, so if you notice a girl twirling hair, it's a positive sign. Pay attention to body language. If a girl leans in close to you, makes an excuse to touch you, or lets each touch linger for a longer period of time, then she may see you as more than a friend. If she touches your shoulder, brushes your hand, or hugs you for no real reason, it is a positive indication she likes you. If a girl wants to share a drink or food with you, chances are she is way into you. Notice if she laughs at your jokes, even when they are not funny. If a girl has a large smile every time you two have a conversation, and laughs nonstop, then she thoroughly enjoys your company. This is an unconscious way of saying, “I really like you, and I love listening to you talk". When in love, you see that person through rose-colored glasses, making everything that person says seem perfect and funny. Pay attention to how she treats you in comparison with other guy friends. If she likes you, she'll probably act shyer or blush a lot when you are around. If she treats you the same as other guy friends, chances are she just wants to be friends. Observe her behavior when you are in a group. If a girl likes you, she may give you tons of attention, even if she is around other people. This is because you are the one she prefers talking to and spending time with. See how well she knows your interests. If a girl has romantic feelings for you, she will remember specific details about what you say. For example, she will remember when you said you prefer chicken to steak, or keep track of all your favorite songs. Do a jealousy test. See if she gets angry and jealous when you flirt with another girl. If she seems bothered or starts asking you what you were talking about with that other girl, then she may have romantic feelings for you. Pay attention to how her friends treat you. If they show a sudden interest in you or ask you a lot of personal questions, chances are they are trying to get to know you better because their friend has strong feelings for you. If they try to tease you when the girl is around, it is probably because she likes you. Listen for certain statements she makes around you. When a girl likes you, she will indirectly express it when you two hang out. Here are some things she may say: "I love spending time with you." "You're my favorite person." "You are so funny." Take note of who initiates conversation. If a girl always starts a conversation with you, especially if she has no real reason to talk to you in the first place, she's definitely interested! If she sends you text messages just to say hi, or that she's thinking about you, it's a good sign. Be straightforward and ask how she feels. It is okay to ask someone about their feelings for you. It may seem embarrassing at first, but if she cares about you, either as a friend or something more, she will get over it and appreciate that you feel comfortable enough to be open and honest. Here are some ways you can ask: "How do you feel about me?" "Do you see me as a friend, or do you see me becoming something more?" Ask questions about love and romance. If you do not want to come straight out and ask how she feels about you, then ask questions about love that may help you figure things out. Here are some questions you can ask: "How do you feel about falling in love?" "Do you think people can fall in love after being good friends?" Ask a mutual friend how she feels. Girls tell their friends almost everything. If you are too nervous to directly ask a girl if she has feelings for you, casually ask a friend she is close to. Be aware that once you start inquiring to friends, they will likely report what you said back to this girl. Here are casual questions you can ask: "Do you know if she like anyone?" "Does she ever talk about dating?" Find out how she talks about you when you are not around. If a girl finds a reason to constantly bring up your name, speaks positively of you when you are not around, or smiles when your name is mentioned, she has strong feelings for you. Initiate a date. Build up some courage and ask this girl to see a movie with you, or grab dinner. If she dresses up, or puts on more makeup than usual, then she is trying to impress you. A girl who loves you will want to stand out in your eyes by looking great and being fun. | Look for eye contact. Watch for hair twirling. Pay attention to body language. Notice if she laughs at your jokes, even when they are not funny. Pay attention to how she treats you in comparison with other guy friends. Observe her behavior when you are in a group. See how well she knows your interests. Do a jealousy test. Pay attention to how her friends treat you. Listen for certain statements she makes around you. Take note of who initiates conversation. Be straightforward and ask how she feels. Ask questions about love and romance. Ask a mutual friend how she feels. Find out how she talks about you when you are not around. Initiate a date. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Paint-from-Concrete | How to Remove Paint from Concrete | To remove paint from concrete, first sweep the concrete to clean the area you'll be working on. Use a paint scraper to scrape up any thick globs of paint that are sticking up off of the concrete. Then, put on a dust mask, gloves, and protective eyewear. Spread a thick layer of paint stripper over the paint with a cheap paintbrush. Keep the area well-ventilated while you work and avoid touching the paint stripper. Wait several hours for the paint stripper to cure. Next, use a wire brush to scrub the paint off of the concrete, working your way around the surface until all of the paint is gone. Finally, rinse the area with a pressure washer multiple times to remove any paint stripper residue. | Prepare the concrete surface. Use a broom or shop vacuum to remove all dirt or debris. If possible, remove any loose paint from concrete with a scraper or brush. Apply a chemical paint stripper to the concrete surface. The type of stripper you should use depends on the type of paint you are trying to remove, such as water-based or oil-based paint. If in doubt, use a stripper designed for removing oil-based paints. Allow the stripper to work. Check the directions printed on the can by the manufacturer. This could be anywhere from 1 to 8 hours. In some cases, only minutes may be required. Scrub the concrete. Use a wire scrub brush or a scraper to remove the loosened paint. You could also use a pressure washer for outdoor concrete surfaces such as driveways or patios. Repeat the steps if necessary. In some cases, a second or third application of paint stripper is needed to thoroughly remove paint from concrete. Clean the concrete surface. Use a power or pressure washer to remove all traces of the paint stripper. If you have removed paint drops or drips, cleaning the concrete can avoid leaving clean spots on the surface. Make an absorbent paint stripper. Assemble your materials. You will need paint stripper. If you are working in a well-ventilated area (outside or in an open, separate garage), you can use a stripper with methylene chloride. This will make the process much faster. You will need a respirator if working with this kind of paint stripper. You will also need absorbent material. Finely ground clay is most effective. If you don't have access, you can crush up cat litter into a powder. To finish the cleanup job, you will need a stiff brush and scouring powder. Mix the stripper with the absorbent material. Create a paste with your clay or cat litter. Depending on how thick the stripper is, you may not need to add much material. The absorbent material will help draw the paint off of the concrete, making it easier to scrape off. Spread the mixture. Apply a layer of the absorbent paint stripper mixture to the paint spot on the concrete. Allow time for the stripper to work. Depending on the chemicals that you are using, this could take anywhere from 20 minutes to several hours. Add more paint thinner to the applied mixture during the process to keep the ingredients active. Scrape the mixture off. The paint thinner should have done most of the work for you, allowing you to remove most of the paint by simply scraping the mixture off with a hard plastic scraper. Add a second layer of mixture if there is remaining paint, and repeat the process. Scrub the spot. Use the stiff brush, scouring powder, and water to scrub at the stripped surface, removing any excess paint particles. Rinse away the scouring mixture and keep scrubbing with the brush to finish the job. Consider soda blasting. Determine if a blaster is right for your needs. If your paint covers a large area, then a blaster may be a better choice over a paint stripper solution. One form of blasting is soda blasting, which uses baking soda as the scouring agents. Soda blasting is also much more environmentally-friendly than using chemicals, and will not damage the concrete underneath. Obtain a blasting unit. To soda blast, you will need a pot blaster. Your local hardware store may be able to rent them to you. You will also need special sodium bicarbonate. The baking powder that you buy at the grocery store is too fine to use in a soda blaster. The proper powder should be available where you rent the blaster, but can also be ordered online. Most standard sand blasters cannot work with soda. You will need to obtain a specialized soda blaster in order to use sodium bicarbonate. Blast the painted area. Work slowly, holding the nozzle about a foot and a half away from the ground. Be sure to wear a respirator to avoid inhaling particles. Move the nozzle evenly across the painted area to make sure that no paint gets left behind. If blasting near vegetation, be sure to avoid getting excess particles on plants. The high pH soda can cause browning and death in flowers and bushes. If you have a lot of paint to remove, consider hiring a professional blaster. The amount of blasting material needed and the size of the blasting unit will most likely be far too much to afford on your own. | Prepare the concrete surface. Apply a chemical paint stripper to the concrete surface. Allow the stripper to work. Scrub the concrete. Repeat the steps if necessary. Clean the concrete surface. Make an absorbent paint stripper. Mix the stripper with the absorbent material. Spread the mixture. Scrape the mixture off. Scrub the spot. Consider soda blasting. Obtain a blasting unit. Blast the painted area. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Train-a-Siberian-Husky | How to Train a Siberian Husky | To train a Siberian Husky, start by teaching the dog to obey simple phrases like "sit" and "stay." Be consistent with the commands you use and reward your dog with treats whenever it understands and obeys correctly. Build up to more complex commands, taking care to reward your dog for each new skill it learns. Commit to a daily routine of exercising, playing, and training for the best results! | Establish yourself as the strong leader. Siberian Huskies are notorious for being difficult to train. They are a pack dog with a hierarchical order of leadership and, therefore, are stubborn, strong-willed, and independent. Because huskies have natural behavioral traits that can be destructive if not properly trained, it is important to get an early start on minimizing bad behavior to establish a foundation for a well-behaved dog. It is important to have knowledge of a Siberian Husky's temperament. Confidence and a strong-will are important qualities to have as an owner to establish obedience in your dog. Huskies will only respect or listen to commands coming from a strong leader. Treating your husky as an equal is not a good idea because huskies are hierarchical pack dogs and only follow leaders. You must demonstrate yourself as the leader at all times, whether that is eating first, entering doorways before your dog, or making your husky move out of your way, it is important to establish this tiered relationship. Sometimes huskies become aggressive in an attempt to establish a pecking order of leadership by biting, posturing, or engaging in other violent behaviors. In this case, demonstrating your dominance as the leader is imperative to curbing this behavior. Permitting your husky to continue this behavior or not addressing will only encourage stronger aggression towards other people and dogs. Siberian Huskies sometimes engage in behavior that is very natural for them but unwanted by people. The leader position will also provide you the authority to train your husky not to engage in bad behavior such as jumping, digging, biting, and chewing. A Husky will only obey the leader. Reward good behavior. Good manners are the foundation for a well-behaved dog. Providing tasty treats and using an encouraging voice is an effective combination for your husky to repeat good behavior. This is called “positive reinforcement” or “respect training.” Make sure to quickly dish out rewards so that your husky understands which behavior to replicate. Waiting too long will only confuse your husky. Once your husky masters a command, the treat will no longer be needed. Redirect bad behavior into good behavior. Focus the dog's attention away from being naughty towards a good behavioral act. This shows a dog what can and cannot be done without discipline. The lure and reward system is safe because huskies will not become fearful, aggressive, or stressed from abuse. Instead, of performing violence on your husky, you are simply withholding treats that your husky failed to earn. Keep training simple and set goals. Your husky, like any other animal, has a learning curve. Start out easy with minimal commands and build up to more complex ones and reward at all stages. Discipline your husky without using violence. Along with praise and rewards, huskies must also receive discipline for bad behavior. As with praise, corrective measures must be taken immediately, be consistent, and redirected towards performing good behavior. To avoid going overboard with physical or abusive discipline and losing your husky's willingness to obey, control your husky's resources, such as treats, toys, play, and affection until the dog responds with corrective behavior. Be firm in your discipline. Use words like “no” or “stop” with strong assertion but without anger in your voice. At all times, make sure you are exhibiting strong leadership by firmly controlling the training and by giving commands authoritatively. A given command must be obeyed. If your husky refuses, then walk away and ignore him without giving him what he wants. After a few minutes, give the command again – be persistent and patient until he obeys. If your husky continues to be stubborn and refuses to obey after several attempts, remove him to a “time-out” designated area where he cannot interact with people until he settles down. Build a useful vocabulary with your husky. Just like communicating with another human, useful vocabulary is the basis for comprehension and a good relationship with your husky. A strong vocabulary will make your husky smart, well-mannered, and most importantly, get your husky to understand what you want done. Simple words like yes, no, sit, stay, come, or short phrases are best when trying to communicate with your husky. Familiar words and phrases build trust – a husky builds confidence knowing who their leader is and what is expected of them. A good vocabulary provides your husky with knowledge and, eventually, the ability to piece together words and phrases to complete complex tasks. Be consistent and balanced in your training. Although huskies are known to be intelligent, good behavior is a response to repeated conditioning in a consistent environment. Setting a routine is the best way to accomplishing consistency. Routines are good for both dog and owner because a regular schedule of training, playing, potty, and exercise maximizes time together and relaxes expectations. Commitment to a daily routine is the biggest hurdle to effectively training your husky. Be aware that sudden changes in a schedule can irritate and confuse a dog, making him more vulnerable to break the rules you established during training. Make sure supplies, such as food, toys, collar, leash, treats, and cleaning materials are readily available so that the daily schedule is not interrupted or place stress on either the owner or the dog. Always remain calm and plan for success. Siberian Huskies must realize who is in charge and that commands are to be followed and are not merely suggestions. Make sure that rewards and discipline are equal to the achievement or infraction. Love and tenderness are always good qualities to share with your best friend. Make some rules and try to stick with them. Although huskies are known to be intelligent, good behavior is a response to repeated conditioning in a consistent environment. Therefore, it is important to make rules and stick with them and to communicate these rules to all family members who come into contact with your husky. Most likely, a husky will not follow commands that are inconsistent or confusing. Decide what rooms the dog can access, which furniture will or will not be available for your husky to lounge on, and where sleeping quarters will be. There will be times when you have to leave your husky alone. In this case, make sure boundaries are established to protect your property from an overzealous or bored husky. Consider a place like the kitchen where it will be easy to clean up accidents, low-risk for destructive behavior, and close to family activity to prevent loneliness. Exercise at least thirty minutes a day to burn off excess energy in addition to play time. Remember that Siberian Huskies have been trained for hundreds, if not thousands, of years to be sled dogs, which has built up their endurance level. A lack of exercise will do more than make your husky fat and lazy, it will provide motive for mischievous behavior such as escaping, howling, chewing, crying, and digging. “Walking your dog” is not good enough for a Siberian Husky. They were bred to run for several miles a day and, therefore, require large amounts of exercise. At the very minimum, you should be prepared for a good run every day or at least a brisk walk to tire your husky. Siberian Huskies prefer to howl than to bark. Excessive howling troubles neighbors and brings complaints. Exercising will release their pent up energy and minimize excessive howling. Siberian Huskies have a reputation as “escape artists.” Huskies are creative when it comes to finding a way to leave the yard. In most cases, your husky will only attempt to “escape” if under-exercised or bored. Other outdoor activities such as bikejoring, hiking, or even a game of fetch, flyball, or Frisbee will help tire your husky and provide solid alternatives to running. Huskies are used to traveling long distances, so be prepared to go on longer walks than you would if you had something like a Chihuahua. Get your husky comfortable with the crate. The crate should never be used as punishment as in a cage, jail, or time out. Instead, let your husky become comfortable with the crate by keeping the door open. Always use a gentle voice and give praise when your husky is in or near the crate so that fear does not creep in. Avoid forcing or tricking your husky to enter the crate. If your husky refuses or fears to enter the crate, place a tasty treat inside as a lure. Let him discover the treat on his own. Do this several times a day as necessary. Word associations are important. When your husky enters the crate use the same word to make a positive association with entering the crate. The best method is to use the key word or phrase as the treat and husky enter the crate. On the first day, in particular, repeat these procedures often so that your husky recognizes and becomes comfortable around the crate. Prepare to close the crate door. At the end of the day, place the familiar treat inside the crate, after your husky enters, close the door. To ease anxiety, place an interesting new toy inside to focus attention away from the closed door. Continue to provide company outside the crate until any crying or whining subsides. Keep your husky in the crate until there has been at least 30 to 60 seconds of silence. Resist the urge to let your husky out of the crate before reaching the minimum amount of time of silence or using corrective language to keep quiet. Always have an extra toy available if the treat and initial toy fail to keep your husky from whining or crying. It is important to keep the focus off of the closed door. A good strategy would be to exercise or play with your husky until they become tired and then place them inside the crate when they are sleepy. If your husky falls asleep inside the crate, let them sleep there overnight. Be mindful not to praise your husky in the morning for staying peacefully inside the crate. This gives the dog the illusion that it is better to be out rather than in the crate. Indeed, pay little attention to your husky for the first couple of moments after exiting the crate to reduce this illusion. Place the crate in your bedroom if your husky fears being alone. Siberian Huskies are pack dogs and like to be close to their leader, plus this gives them reassurance that they are not being abandoned. Use your voice or place your fingers inside the crate to comfort the dog's fears. Unless your husky has to potty, keep the crate door closed for at least 4 hours. Comfort is the key. Therefore, if your husky soils the crate do not scold or discipline. Keep the crate in the bedroom for a few nights until the routine becomes familiar. Once your husky no longer whines or soils the crate, you can place him somewhere else in the house. Leave the house without your husky. This should not be treated as some special event; rather, it is best to leave without calling attention to your departure so your husky does not fret. Practice first until it becomes routine. Increase the time increments that you pretend to leave the house during training until you achieve 2 hours. Remember, if you have a puppy, they have to potty every 4 hours. Therefore, during training, make arrangements to come home or have a neighbor let the puppy out of the crate to potty. It is a wise idea to inform neighbors that you are crating your husky since extended “howling” is natural when feeling lonely. Siberian Huskies are masters of escape. When you leave the house, make sure that all unsafe toys, collars, and cords are removed from or near the crate so that the husky does not get injured. Build mutual respect between the dog and children. The Siberian Husky, although generally child-friendly, needs to have social boundaries – no jumping, grabbing, chasing, bolting, or pulling – established. Children should follow similar boundaries – no teasing; roughing; chasing; pulling hair, tail, or ears; or tug-of-war. Children should help train your husky under adult supervision so that the husky becomes comfortable and familiar with all family members. Teaching children to gently pet and touch a husky, instead of pulling or hitting, helps build a trusting friendship and affection for each other. Identify potential risk factors. Other than bringing home a puppy, an unfamiliar husky's background should always be taken into account around children. Find out if the husky was raised or socialized with children previously to bringing them home. Check to see if the husky ever received training for contact with children. Visually watch your husky around children to identify irritability, nervousness, or growling. Naturally, Siberian Huskies have an instinct to chase small animals and sometimes children. Because huskies see small animals, like cats, as food, they might mistake babies or toddlers as part of the pack (family) and mistakenly attack them. Always have a new dog on a leash around children so that you remain in control and can prevent any injury. Understand your husky's body language. Few children will understand the meaning of a dog's body language unless they are taught to identify aggressive behavior. Angry dogs typically bark, growl, show their teeth, and stare at their target. Children should never approach a dog under these circumstances. Instead, the child should immediately stop moving, stand up straight with arms at their side and legs close together, and look away from the dog to avoid eye contact. If the dog attacks anyways, the child should drop to the ground, curl up with knees to the chest, and arms covering the face with fists over the ears. Disengage by being quiet. Get your husky ready for the arrival of a newborn. Training should begin several weeks or months prior to a newborn's arrival. Obedience training – how to sit, stay, lie down, or approach – should commence immediately and continue until your husky becomes reliable. Practice at home with a baby doll to simulate situations, smells, and new sounds where it is essential for your husky to obey a command. Make sure not to get lulled into a false sense of security. If your husky is not obeying commands completely and regularly it might be best to seek out a good obedience school or trainer. To prevent the dog from jumping, wildly sniffing, or misbehaving in general, the mother should greet the husky upon arrival without the baby for a few minutes until the excitement winds down. This also presents an opportunity for your husky to sniff mom's clothes for new smells. Once your husky is relaxed the baby can be introduced. It is natural to give more attention to your newborn baby than to your dog. Nevertheless, do not neglect your dog or make him jealous. Prepare in advance by gradually reducing the amount of attention the dog normally receives a few weeks in advance of the baby's arrival. Infants are different from children. Dogs usually identify children as people but this is not always true with infants. Become familiar with your dog's “typical” behavior and reactions around children. Check to make sure the dog imitates this behavior around the baby. | Establish yourself as the strong leader. Reward good behavior. Discipline your husky without using violence. Build a useful vocabulary with your husky. Be consistent and balanced in your training. Make some rules and try to stick with them. Exercise at least thirty minutes a day to burn off excess energy in addition to play time. Get your husky comfortable with the crate. Prepare to close the crate door. Place the crate in your bedroom if your husky fears being alone. Leave the house without your husky. Build mutual respect between the dog and children. Identify potential risk factors. Understand your husky's body language. Get your husky ready for the arrival of a newborn. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-a-Moldy-Dishwasher | How to Clean a Moldy Dishwasher | To clean a moldy dishwasher, start by putting 1 cup of vinegar into a small bowl and placing it in the top rack of an empty dishwasher. Then, run a hot water cycle so the vinegar can work to remove the grime and mold during the wash. Next, sprinkle 1 cup of baking soda over the bottom of the dishwasher and let it sit overnight. The next morning, run another hot water cycle to remove any remaining odors from the mold. Finally, use a toothbrush and soapy water to scrub any nooks and crannies that still have mold in them. | Slide out the bottom dish rack. Simply slide it along the rails until it comes free. Make sure there aren't any dishes in the rack when you remove it. Remove the filter. You can find the filter at the bottom of the dishwasher. It's usually circular and can be found by the spinning water spout. Grab the top of the filter, rotate it counter-clockwise for a quarter turn. It should then come free from the assembly with a light pull. Some older dishwashers have a hard food grinder (or macerator) instead of a filter. Since they grind up fallen food, they won't usually need cleaning. Wash the filter in the kitchen sink. Turn on the sink and place the filter under the warm running water. Apply dishwashing soap to a kitchen sponge and rub the filter. Be gentle when you rub the filter as it can be quite delicate. If there's some more difficult food residue in your filter, you can use a toothbrush to coax them out. Rinse the filter and place it back. Rinse the filter under hot tap water. Return it to its place at the bottom of the dishwasher, making a clockwise quarter turn to set it in place. Place the dish rack back onto its rails. You don't need to let the filter dry before placing it back in the dishwasher. Fill a dishwasher safe container with a cup (237ml) of vinegar. Place the container on the top rack, leaving it open. Close the dishwasher and start a hot-water cycle. The vinegar will work to remove grime and mold that may have accumulated around the dishwasher. Make sure the dishwasher is empty save for your vinegar filled container. Sprinkle a cup (237ml) of baking soda in the dishwasher. Make sure the dishwasher is empty. Sprinkle it over the bottom. Let the baking soda sit in your dishwasher overnight. After doing so, turn the dishwasher on for a short hot water cycle. The baking soda will remove any remaining odors from the mold. Use a toothbrush to scrub any remaining mold. While the vinegar and baking soda will remove any mold on the walls, some of the dishwasher's nooks and crannies (such as the door seal and the folding arms) might need a bit more attention. Dip the toothbrush in soapy water and scrub at any mold you find. Pay close attention to the drain and spray arm at the bottom of the dishwasher. Humidity and food can collect there, making them a prime spot for mold. Scrub each thoroughly. Clean your dishwasher once a month. Don't just clean your dishwasher when mold starts to appear; the appearance of mold in your dishwasher isn't just gross, it can be unhealthy. Regular cleaning will keep mold from building up and causing health problems Leave the door slightly ajar between cycles. Moisture can stay stuck in the dishwasher between washes, creating a humid environment. Between that and the food within, your appliance becomes the ideal breeding ground for mold. Leaving the door open a crack will allow air pass through the dishwasher, preventing the growth of mold. Empty the dishwasher and run a cleaning cycle. Even if there are no dishes, make sure to add detergent to the dishwasher. If your dishwasher has a “sanitize” option, make sure to activate it. This will increase the temperature of the water, giving your appliance a better clean. You can use a chlorine-based detergent to clean the dishwasher more thoroughly. Make sure you leave the door open slightly after the cleaning cycle is complete. | Slide out the bottom dish rack. Remove the filter. Wash the filter in the kitchen sink. Rinse the filter and place it back. Fill a dishwasher safe container with a cup (237ml) of vinegar. Sprinkle a cup (237ml) of baking soda in the dishwasher. Use a toothbrush to scrub any remaining mold. Clean your dishwasher once a month. Leave the door slightly ajar between cycles. Empty the dishwasher and run a cleaning cycle. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Break-Up-with-a-Possessive-Boyfriend | How to Break Up with a Possessive Boyfriend | Breaking up with your possessive boyfriend can be tough, but by prioritizing your safety and being clear about your decision, you'll make it easier for yourself. Try to break up with your boyfriend in a public place with witnesses so he'll be less likely to act up. If you're worried about him getting aggressive or violent, bring a friend along or do it over the phone. Be clear that you're breaking up with him and you've made up your mind. He'll probably try to beg or manipulate you into staying, but be strong and it'll be over soon. As soon as you've broken the news, avoid contact with your boyfriend so he won't be able to control you. If you feel unsafe at any time, call the police. | Consider how you feel. A romantic relationship won't always be perfect, but you should generally feel good about yourself and your partner. If you are in an abusive relationship, such as one where your boyfriend is possessive, you may feel very negative emotions. These are signs that you may be in an unhealthy relationship. You may feel: Depressed Lonely Shameful Guilty Isolated or trapped Anxious Fearful for your safety or the safety of your children Suicidal If you are having suicidal thoughts, call 911 immediately or go to your nearest emergency room. Notice if your boyfriend acts like he owns you. The basis of a possessive tendency in a relationship is rooted in the word “possession.” Your boyfriend thinks of you as something to own and control. Count up how often you see your friends or family. A possessive boyfriend may not allow you to spend time with other people. Instead, he wants to be the center of your universe. He may demand that you cut off contact with friends, family, or coworkers. He is trying to destroy your support network and make you wholly dependent upon him. You likely feel very isolated and alone. Think about the other people in your life. How often do you see them? When you lose your support network, it can seem harder for you to escape a damaging relationship. Consider how your boyfriend reacts when you talk with strangers. A possessive boyfriend will control who you see and talk to. This can even include strangers, such as waiters, store clerks and grocery store checkers. Notice how much your boyfriend tracks your actions. A possessive boyfriend will keep track of what you do and where you go. He will demand an accounting of where you've been, what you've done, who you talked to, what you bought, and even what you read. This can get exhausting and many victims might stop doing certain activities in order to avoid being interrogated. Notice if your boyfriend controls your access to resources. Your boyfriend may not allow you access to certain resources, such as the telephone or internet, a car, school, work, or health care and medications. Limiting these resources is another way to make you entirely dependent upon him. This also helps him track and control your actions. Consider if your boyfriend accuses you of infidelity. Many possessive partners will accuse the other partner of cheating or unfaithfulness. You may feel like you can't even talk to another man because your boyfriend will get jealous. Healthy relationships are built on trust and respect, and you should be able to interact with whomever you want. Recognize possessiveness disguised as caring. Your boyfriend may try to control your actions and behavior by disguising it as caring. He is making the decision for you about how you should act, but he hides it behind a veneer of doing “what's best for you.” For example, he may say that you shouldn't drive your car because the car might break down. But he won't help you get the car fixed to make it safe. Think about how you and your boyfriend communicate with each other. There should be a healthy amount of respect towards each other. Healthy couples are kind to each other. They do not name-call, put each other down, yell, or exhibit other signs of abusive behaviors. They support each other privately and in public. They also honor their partner's boundaries. Healthy couples have personal boundaries (expressing their preferences and needs), and they use assertiveness to express these boundaries in a kind and loving way. When communicating assertively, people in healthy relationships communicate openly and honestly. This means also that healthy couples can share their feelings with the other person, not have a need to be right all the time, and listen to each other in a loving, open, and nonjudgmental way. Watch how arguments play out. Not everyone agrees all the time, even in the healthiest of relationships. Misunderstandings, miscommunications, and conflicts are dealt with promptly and assertively. Assertive communication maintains a level of kindness and respect within the relationship, as well as encourages cooperation in solving problems and issues. Healthy couples don't play the “blame game.” Each person takes responsibility for his or her behavior, thinking, and emotions. Each takes control of his or her own happiness and destiny. Both partners also take responsibility for when they make mistakes and do what's necessary to make it up to the other partner. For example, apologizing is a good start. Determine if your partner is gaslighting. Gaslighting is a method of emotional abuse in which one partner manipulates and distorts events or behaviors so that the other partner doesn't trust her own judgement and doubts her abilities. This is a way to control the other person so that she cannot function independently. An example of gaslighting is when your boyfriend recounts an action from the past but he changes some of the details. On the whole, it seems accurate, but the minor details are used to put him in the right and to put you in the wrong If your partner has been gaslighting for a long time, it can be difficult to determine if it's happening. You may not trust your judgement and you may have very low self-esteem. Think back to instances where you felt disbelief about the way your boyfriend recounted an event. You may have felt that he definitely remembered things wrong. This might be an example of the start of gaslighting in your relationship. Understand the definition of abuse. An abusive relationship describes a relationship where one person consistently and constantly uses tactics to psychologically, physically, financially, emotionally, and sexually control and have power over another person. A relationship marked by domestic violence is a relationship where there is an imbalance of power. Know what emotional abuse looks like. This kind of abuse usually involves verbal abuse, where the abuser systematically lowers your self-esteem by calling you names, criticizes you constantly, doesn't show any trust, acts like you a possession, threatens you, and uses your children against you or threatens to hurt them, among other behaviors. Possessive behavior is a form of emotional abuse, but it can be accompanied by other forms of abuse. Understand what physical abuse looks like. The actual acts of physical violence might seem like they are self-explanatory or too obvious to mention. But for people who grew up getting hit, they might not realize that this is not a normal, healthy behavior. The following are signs of physical abuse: “Pulling your hair, punching, slapping, kicking, biting or choking you.” Denying you the right to meet your basic needs, such as food and sleep. Breaking your belongings or things in your home, such as throwing dishes or punching holes in the walls. Threatening you with a knife or gun, or uses a weapon on you. Physically barring you from leaving, calling 911 for help, or going to the hospital. Physically abusing you or your children. Kicking you out of your car and leaving you in strange places. Driving aggressively and dangerously while you are in the car. Making you drink alcohol or take drugs. Recognize sexual abuse. This kind of abuse encompasses any unwanted sexual activity. It includes “sexual coercion,” which makes you feel like you are being forced to have sex. It also includes “reproductive coercion,” which means not allowing you to have a choice in pregnancy. An abuser may control the way you dress, rape you, purposely give you a sexually transmitted disease, drug you or get you drunk to have sex with you, make you pregnant or terminate your pregnancy against your will, make you view pornography, and so on. Understand the dimensions of financial abuse. Financial abuse can entail abusers preventing you from having your own money, even if you earned it. They might also take away your credit cards or they start a credit card in your name and ruin your credit history. Abusers also might move into your home and not contribute to paying any of the bills or expenses. They might also withhold money for your basic needs, such as prescriptions or groceries. Understand what digital abuse looks like. Abusers utilize technology to threaten, stalk, bully, or harass you. They may use social media to send you harassing messages, or demand to know your passwords. Abusers will also insist you keep your cell phone on you at all times and answer his call the moment it rings. Be realistic about whether the relationship is worth fixing. When you're in a possessive relationship, your partner is responsible for his actions. Many victims of abuse are trained to think, “It's my fault,” and “If I'd only done this, he wouldn't do that.” But your partner is the one who decides how he will act. If the relationship is worth fixing, your boyfriend has to really want to change his ways. He has to initiate the change. If your boyfriend is possessive enough that you've become isolated, trapped, depressed, anxious, or fearful, then it's most likely that you should leave the relationship. Get support from a trusted friend or family member. Often, a person in a possessive relationship will become isolated from friends and family. She may retreat because she feels that she will be judged or stigmatized. But when you realize that you need to leave the relationship, you will need these support networks. Even if you haven't talked with a friend or family member in a while, he or she is likely willing to support you. Rally this person's support. Talk to this person to discuss your strategy for leaving the relationship. Find support through a domestic violence hotline. The National Domestic Violence Hotline (1-800-799-7233 | 1-800-787-3224 (TTY)) is staffed with counselors who can talk you through your options and help you figure out a plan for leaving this relationship. The National Domestic Violence Hotline also has a website (www.thehotline.com) where you can chat with someone online except for 2:00 a.m. to 7:00 a.m. Central Time. The staff will help you determine what your safest course of action is at this time. They also have a list of 4,000 safehouses around the United States. They can help locate one for you and your children if need be. Make your personalized safety plan. A personalized safety plan is a way to work out exactly what you'll do when you feel threatened or at risk. There are personalized safety plans available online, such as this worksheet from the National Center on Domestic and Sexual Violence. Print out this form and fill it out. Store this worksheet in a safe place where your boyfriend can't find it. Leave immediately if you feel unsafe. If your relationship has become dangerous, you do not need to explain your departure to your boyfriend. Leave immediately and find somewhere safe to stay, such as a safehouse. Your first priority is to keep yourself (and your children and pets if you have them) safe. Trust your instincts. Your gut may be telling you that the relationship is not working and that your boyfriend does not respect you. It can be a difficult realization to come to. But when you trust yourself and you are honest with yourself, you can make a change that will lead you into a healthier, safer life. Plan out what you’re going to say. It is a good idea to practice what you will say to your boyfriend when you break off the relationship. This will help you work through your thoughts to find the best way to express yourself. This can be very hard to do when you are the victim in a controlling relationship. But you deserve to be heard and respected. Choose the best place and time. Breaking up is usually best done in person. But in an abusive relationship, you should carefully anticipate your boyfriend's reactions and choose the safest way to lose him instead. If you don't think he will become violent, then you can do this in person. You may want to choose a public place where he can't hurt you or break your things. If you think he will get violent, you should just leave the situation without an in-person explanation. You can leave a note if you feel it's necessary. If you have children or pets, take them with you. Bring someone with you. If you are concerned at all about your safety, bring a trusted friend with you. This person can be a witness and advocate for you. Describe how his behaviors make you feel. You can take this opportunity to tell him how his possessiveness has made you feel. Use assertive communication to tell him what you need from a healthy relationship. Tell him that the relationship is not meeting your needs and that you are leaving. You can give some specific examples of how he disrespects you, isolates you, or controls you. Be wary of his reactions. Be aware that your boyfriend may not listen to your explanations. He may become very defensive. He may turn violent or apologetic, or he might just ignore you. Stick to your guns and do what's right for you. Ignore the apologies. Your partner may try begging you to stay and to forgive him. But be extremely wary of promises that he will change. Abuse can “cycle,” in that there is a period of calm, followed by an escalation, and then an attack. After the attack, the entire cycle can begin again. If you've reached the decision to leave the relationship, listen to yourself first and foremost. Ignore his apologies and begging. If he threatens that he'll hurt himself if you leave, you need to ignore him. His actions are his own responsibility. He is using guilt to try manipulating you into staying. You need to ensure your own safety first. Call 911 if you feel unsafe. If your partner becomes violent, call 911 immediately. Calling 911 can ensure that you will be able to stop any physical abuse that might arise. You can also ensure your safety as you and your kids leave the house. Tell the police about any physical abuse you experienced. Describe what happened in detail and show where you were hurt. Have the police take photos of the marks right away, as well as the next day when bruising shows up. These photos can be used in court. Ask for the officers' names and badge numbers. Get a report or case number as well, in case you need a copy of the report. The police might arrest your boyfriend if they determine that you are unsafe. Find a safe shelter. Make a list of all the places you can go. Think about friends or family who are not familiar to your boyfriend. Locate a safehouse. Safehouses are usually maintained by nonprofit organizations. They have a secret location and are usually accessible 24 hours a day, so you can sneak away while your partner is sleeping if necessary. They can help you coordinate with government social services to get benefits to get you started. They can also help you get a personal protection order, and many offer counseling services. Don’t answer communications from your ex-boyfriend. This person may continue trying to contact you on the phone, through social media, or even in person. Don't respond to his texts. Delete his number from your phone. Unfriend him on social media. You may want to change your phone number. If you feel that he is following you around or spying on you, change up your routines. Leave for work or school at a different time and take a different route. If you don't feel safe, think about getting a personal protection order. Get a personal protection order if you think it’s necessary. A personal protection order (PPO) is issued by the Circuit Court in your region. It offers legal protection for you against a person who is harassing, stalking, threatening or intimidating you. The PPO will prohibit this person from coming to your home or workplace. Keep a detailed record of any contact that your boyfriend makes. If your boyfriend continues to get in touch with you or stalk you, write down the times, places and details of what happened. This can be used to get a personal protection order if you need one. See a mental health professional. Depending on the extent of the relationship you just left, you may want to seek counseling to talk through your experiences. It can be a good idea to work with a professional to understand the relationship and your partner's behaviors. Reestablish your sense of safety. After ending an abusive relationship where you didn't feel secure, you will need time to feel safe again. This might mean feeling safe physically, feeling safe from criticisms and insults, feeling safe from poverty or other financial abuse, and feeling safe in your actions and behaviors. You might look to feel safe physically by taking a self-defense class. You might begin to feel safe from financial abuse by getting a job and building up your savings account. Allow yourself to grieve. The end of your relationship can leave you feeling depressed, guilty, lost or anxious. Let yourself express these feelings. Do something creative, like artwork or journaling, to work out some of these feelings. Take time for yourself. After you get out of an unhealthy relationship, it's a good idea to take time to reconnect with yourself. Do the activities that you enjoy doing, whether it's cooking or hiking or skiing or watching movies. Focus on what you need to feel healthy again. Enter into new relationships cautiously. When you start thinking about getting into a new relationship, you will likely enter into it with caution and perhaps a little trepidation. Be optimistic about the possibilities for a new relationship. But if you sense you are getting into the same patterns as your previous relationship, break it off immediately. Don't get yourself into a similar cycle as the previous time. Identify qualities you want in a partner. After an abusive relationship, take time to figure out your priorities for a successful and healthy relationship. Put yourself as a priority. Be strong and believe in yourself. Breaking off a possessive relationship can be extremely difficult, especially if you've been entrenched in it for a long time. Be strong and believe in your ability to heal. Give yourself positive affirmations so that you know you've made the right decision. | Consider how you feel. Notice if your boyfriend acts like he owns you. Count up how often you see your friends or family. Consider how your boyfriend reacts when you talk with strangers. Notice how much your boyfriend tracks your actions. Notice if your boyfriend controls your access to resources. Consider if your boyfriend accuses you of infidelity. Recognize possessiveness disguised as caring. Think about how you and your boyfriend communicate with each other. Watch how arguments play out. Determine if your partner is gaslighting. Understand the definition of abuse. Know what emotional abuse looks like. Understand what physical abuse looks like. Recognize sexual abuse. Understand the dimensions of financial abuse. Understand what digital abuse looks like. Be realistic about whether the relationship is worth fixing. Get support from a trusted friend or family member. Find support through a domestic violence hotline. Make your personalized safety plan. Leave immediately if you feel unsafe. Trust your instincts. Plan out what you’re going to say. Choose the best place and time. Bring someone with you. Describe how his behaviors make you feel. Be wary of his reactions. Ignore the apologies. Call 911 if you feel unsafe. Find a safe shelter. Don’t answer communications from your ex-boyfriend. Get a personal protection order if you think it’s necessary. See a mental health professional. Reestablish your sense of safety. Allow yourself to grieve. Take time for yourself. Enter into new relationships cautiously. Be strong and believe in yourself. |
https://www.wikihow.health/Avoid-Hypoglycemia | How to Avoid Hypoglycemia | To avoid hypoglycemia, which occurs when your blood sugar drops too low, try to exercise regularly to keep your body healthy. However, eat a snack before exercising to prevent your blood sugar levels dropping during your workout. It's also important to get 7-9 hours of sleep, which reduces your susceptibility to stress and improves your glucose regulation. Another key factor is to eat regularly throughout the day to keep your glucose levels consistent. Aim for 3 meals a day with snacks in between. On the other hand, try to cut down on simple carbohydrates, like candy, soda, and cookies, which cause a spike in blood sugar that can result in rebound hypoglycemia. | Watch for symptoms. The best way to prevent hypoglycemia to know what to look for. While hypoglycemia is often associated with diabetes, hypoglycemic symptoms can be triggered by missing meals, increasing your physical activity, or drinking too much alcohol. Symptoms can appear up to 24 hours following these activities. Symptoms include: Hunger Shakiness Anxiety Sweating Dizziness Lightheadedness Fatigue Physical weakness Convulsions Differentiate between functional and reactive hypoglycemia. If you can determine if you are functional or reactive, you can better avoid hypoglycemia. Functional hypoglycemia occurs if there is abnormal glucose regulation in your body; the source of this dysfunction may not be known. Reactive hypoglycemia occurs as a response to your diet or stress. Functional hypoglycemia can be controlled by medication whereas reactive hypoglycemia can be prevented by changes in diet or lifestyle. Read the labels of your medication. Some medicines can trigger hypoglycemia, including insulin injections, certain antidepressants, and malaria drugs. Research your medication for potential side effects and speak with your doctor to understand your risk. Take a glucose tolerance test. If you are at risk for diabetes or suspect you have a different hypoglycemic condition, you may ask your doctor for a glucose tolerance test (GTT). You may be asked to fast for 8 hours before a blood sample is drawn and tested. Urine tests can also be used to detect glucose-related conditions. Keep track of what you eat. For ten days, record everything you eat and drink (including medication) as well as what time of day you consume them. As you go about your day, record the time and severity of any hypoglycemic symptoms you may feel. If you notice that you are repeatedly suffering symptoms or crashes after consuming a particular food or drink, eliminate that item from your diet for a few days and see if you improve. If you suspect your medication is responsible, consult your doctor for advice but do not stop taking it until you are advised to do so. See a doctor. If you have more than one hypoglycemic episode a week, you may want to see a doctor for testing or medication. Furthermore, if you suddenly suffer from poor coordination, blurred vision, or slurred speech, you may be on the verge of a severe hypoglycemic episode. Seek emergency treatment at a hospital. Severe hypoglycemia can cause fainting and seizures as well as life-threatening damage to your heart and brain. Reduce stress. Stress-related hormones such as epinephrine play a significant role in the production and regulation of glucose. If you can identify your major stressors, you can take steps to reduce stress in your life and decrease your risk of hypoglycemia. There are a few common tactics for dealing with stress. Write down what stresses you throughout the day. This will help you identify what is causing your stress as well as what you can do to deal with it in a healthy manner. Get plenty of sleep. A full night's rest can reduce the stress you feel the following day. Maintain a healthy and consistent sleeping schedule. Exercise. Even taking a short walk every day will help you relax. Talk it out. Discussing what bothers you with a close friend or family member can provide you with assistance and support. Your problems will not be your burden alone. Exercise moderately. Blood sugar levels can plummet after intense exercise, but this does not mean that you should stop entirely. Exercise has many other health benefits, and you can moderate your exercise with certain practices to reduce the risk of hypoglycemia. Eat a snack before and after you exercise. This will prevent your blood sugar levels from dropping too severely. Check your blood sugar during extended periods of exercise and have small snacks as a necessary, especially if your blood sugar is less than 100 mg/dl. Do not exercise late at night. Have your session be at least two hours before you go to bed. Do not exercise more than once or twice a day. If you take insulin injections, do not exercise when your insulin levels are at their highest. Even after exercise, when you are recovering, medication may cause your blood glucose to spike. Check your levels periodically after exercise. Reduce alcohol and caffeine consumption. Alcohol and coffee can be difficult to eliminate because they are social drinks, but they are also major catalysts for hypoglycemia. As many as one-fifth of severe hypoglycemic episodes are caused by alcohol. If you are finding it difficult to eliminate alcohol and caffeine completely, only consume them in social settings and limit yourself to one drink. Alcohol, especially on an empty stomach, can lead to hypoglycemia, and can have lasting effects even one to two days after consumption. Heavy drinking is particularly dangerous. Make sure you're not drinking on an empty stomach — have a small snack if necessary. Lose excess weight. Being overweight often leads to diabetes, and the first step to pre-diabetes is reactive hypoglycemia. If you can prevent hypoglycemia by losing weight and controlling your diet, you will decrease your chances of developing diabetes. According to the Diabetes Prevention Program, even a modest decrease in weight — around 7% of total body weight — greatly decreases your risk of developing diabetes. . Quit smoking Smoking significantly increases your odds of suffering severe hypoglycemia. Wean yourself off tobacco to improve your general health and increase your odds of avoiding hypoglycemia. Keep glucose tablets on hand. Glucose tablets are available to boost your blood sugar levels in case of emergency. There are many over-the-counter options available. Ask your local pharmacist for recommendations. You can take three or four at a time depending on the dosage. Schedule your meals at regular intervals. Infrequent or sporadic eating can induce hypoglycemia. It is recommended that you either eat six small meals a day or eat three big meals with small snacks in between. A good schedule will keep your glucose levels consistent while helping you monitor when and what you eat. Reduce your intake of simple carbohydrates. These are foods that have a simple molecular structure that is broken down very quickly and turned into glucose in the body, causing your blood sugar to rise. Simple carbohydrates include table sugar, high fructose corn syrup and honey. Foods with simple carbs include fruit, milk, candy, soda and confections like cakes and cookies. These sugars cause high spikes in blood sugar that can result in rebound hypoglycemia. Try to avoid these as much as possible. Eat a limited amount of complex carbohydrates. These foods are made up of multiple chains of simple sugars so they don't break down as quickly as simple carbs. Complex carbs include potatoes, pasta, grains and breads. Opting for whole wheat and whole grain versions of breads and pastas will help reduce hypoglycemia, since these break down slowly. High fiber carbs can help regulate your blood sugar. Balance complex carbs with protein and fat. Each meal should include one source of complex carbs, one source of fat, and one source of protein. Complex carbs will slowly release glucose over a period of time in your body, while the protein and fat will slow your body's processing of glucose and keep blood sugar levels stable. Meal and snack options that fit these proportions include: Meat or cheese sandwich on whole wheat bread Peanut butter on whole grain crackers Salad with raw vegetables, beans, and a dairy-free dressing Hard-boiled egg with carrot sticks or celery Lean meat or fish served with quinoa and a vegetable Keep non-perishable snacks on hand. It will be easier for you to maintain healthy eating practices if you keep your home, office, purse, and car stocked with prepared snacks and foods. It is recommended to keep 15 grams of carbohydrates on you at all times in case of emergency. If you are unable to have a proper meal at your scheduled time or if you feel the onset of a hypoglycemic episode, these snacks can stave off hypoglycemia until you are able to eat. Examples of non-perishable snacks include: One 4-ounce glass of juice A small box of raisins A granola bar One piece of hard candy | Watch for symptoms. Differentiate between functional and reactive hypoglycemia. Read the labels of your medication. Take a glucose tolerance test. Keep track of what you eat. See a doctor. Reduce stress. Exercise moderately. Reduce alcohol and caffeine consumption. Lose excess weight. . Keep glucose tablets on hand. Schedule your meals at regular intervals. Reduce your intake of simple carbohydrates. Eat a limited amount of complex carbohydrates. Balance complex carbs with protein and fat. Keep non-perishable snacks on hand. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Prepare-Homemade-Mayonnaise | How to Prepare Homemade Mayonnaise | To prepare your own homemade mayonnaise, gently whisk together 2 small egg yolks, salt, and white pepper. Slowly pour in 8 oz of oil, whisking vigorously as you add the oil. Make sure the oil gets completely incorporated as you're mixing it in. Finish the mayo by stirring in 1 tbsp of lemon juice or vinegar. For best results, set all of your ingredients out at room temperature before you get started, but be sure to cover and refrigerate your mayo when it's finished. | Prepare the ingredients. Gather 1 large egg or 2 small eggs, 8 oz. (2.5 dl) of cooking oil, and 1 tbsp. (15 g) lemon juice or vinegar. Leave all of the ingredients out at room temperature for approximately 30 minutes prior to preparing the mayonnaise. This aids in the process of emulsification, or binding of the ingredients. Separate the egg yolks from the whites. Cup your hand with your fingers spread slightly apart over a small mixing bowl. Crack the egg in your hand and allow the whites of the egg to slide between your fingers into the bowl. When only the egg yolk remains in your hand, place it in a separate container and set aside. Mix the ingredients. Once the ingredients have reached room temperature, place 2 small egg yolks or 1 large egg yolk, along with 1 tsp. (5 g) of salt and 1 tsp. (5 g) of white pepper, into a medium size mixing bowl and mix gently using a wire whisk. Prepare the mayonnaise. Fill a measuring cup with 8 oz. (2.5 dl) of olive, corn, peanut or safflower oil. Holding the measuring cup of oil in 1 hand and a wire whisk in the other hand, let a small amount of the oil drip into the mixing bowl while stirring briskly with the wire whisk. Once the mixture has begun to thicken and increase in volume, increase the rate of oil from a drip to a very slow pour. Continue to vigorously stir in the remaining oil. Complete the mayonnaise. Flavor the mayonnaise by stirring in 1 tbsp. (15 g) of lemon juice or vinegar. Add more salt and white pepper to taste as needed. Transfer the mayonnaise into a glass, ceramic or plastic container once completed. Be sure to keep the mayonnaise covered and refrigerated following preparation. | Prepare the ingredients. Separate the egg yolks from the whites. Mix the ingredients. Prepare the mayonnaise. Complete the mayonnaise. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Turn-Your-Best-Friend-into-Your-Boyfriend | How to Turn Your Best Friend into Your Boyfriend | If you think you like your best friend, check to see if he likes you back before trying to make him your boyfriend. You can do this by checking how he acts around you. If he's nervous, fidgety and more affectionate than usual, he might like you back! However, if he keeps treating you like one of the guys, it probably hasn't crossed his mind yet. If you think he's interested, try flirting by stroking his arm or playing with your hair, to see if he smiles or teases you. Then, wait for him to make the first move or, if you're feeling bold, confess how you feel! | Figure out how he feels about you. Just because you have started to feel differently about your friend recently doesn't mean that he has any clue what's going on. He may be perfectly happy with how your friendship is going, and not have any inclination towards changing your relationship at all. On the other hand, he may very well feel exactly the same as you, and be wondering about your feelings toward him. Start noticing how he acts around you. If he seems suddenly fidgety or self-conscious around you, this could be a sign that his feelings toward you are evolving into something more. Notice his body language: does he open the door for you, touch the small of your back, or look at you more often? If so, your feelings for him might be reciprocated. Does he talk to you about other girls, or does he treat you like one of the guys? If so, his feelings for you might be more platonic. Ask your friends for advice. Your other friends may be able to provide a little insight into whether or not they think your crush may return your feelings. It can be difficult to gauge someone's interest when you are already close to them as friends. Your friends may be able to give offer some perspective on the situation, and help you decide whether to continue pursuing the relationship or to remain friends. It is possible that your best friend has newfound feelings for you too, and this new development has become obvious to everyone else but the two of you. If your friends are already asking about the two of you, this is a good sign! Talking to your friends (the ones you can trust to not break your confidence) can help you sort through your own feelings too, and help you to clarify what you want to have happen with your relationship with your best friend. Be certain of your own feelings. Before you tell your best friend that you want more out of the relationship and potentially lose a great friendship, make sure that your own feelings are genuine and not a passing fancy. Even if your friend does feel the same as you, make sure that you're willing to risk losing your friendship to pursue the romantic relationship. Remember that it may not be possible to go back to being best friends if things don't work out, but all growth toward something new requires a risk. You just need to decide for yourself if its worth it. If you have been friends for a long time, take your time exploring your feelings! There's no rush to make your best friend your boyfriend, and making the transition from friends to something more is a big deal. The slower you make the change, the better your chances are of avoiding hurt or awkward feelings on anyone's part. Take care of your appearance. Make an effort to always look your best. You don't need to make drastic changes, or start wearing heavy makeup if you usually don't. Just take good care of your body, stay fit, eat right, and make sure that you look well-rested and feel confident when you see your best friend. If you usually wear your hair pulled up, start letting it down. If you wear perfume, less is more. You want to smell good, but not overpower him with a cloying scent. Making small changes to your appearance will make your friend notice that there is something different about you. He may not be able to put his finger on it right away, which will make him start to wonder about you and to think about you differently. Be truthful around him. It's always best to be honest at the beginning of any relationship. If your best friend feels that he can trust you, he will be more willing to let you in to his heart. Make your actions match your words, and always be sincere with your reactions. Be mysterious. Start acting a little differently around him, such as looking at him often or blushing around him. He will eventually pick up on the difference, and he may catch on that you like him. If you usually spend a lot of time together, pick up a new hobby, or start spending more time with your girlfriends. He may miss you and wonder about you more. After all, absence makes the heart grow fonder, as the saying goes. By trying new things and being interesting, not only will you be more intriguing to your crush, you will have fun! Be true to yourself. After all, you want to take your already genuine and healthy friendship to the next level, so don't try to act like someone that you're not. Try to remain the same around him as you did before you realized you liked him. Try to talk to him normally, even if you do feel that your feelings for him must be so obvious that they're written all over your face. Keep your life full of the things that make you feel happy and fulfilled. A relationship should add to your already full and whole life. Be careful that you don't expect your potential new relationship with your best friend to “complete” you. Be a good friend. Avoid allowing your feelings towards him to hamper your friendship. Remember friendship is the key, and that most good relationships start with and are based on a strong friendship first and foremost. Always be there for him, listen to him, and be loyal to him. Forgive him if he hurts your feelings, and offer support to him when he needs it. Flirt with him. Act playfully when you're around your crush, and joke with him. When you are interested in someone, you can feel awkward and uncertain, so be careful that you don't start acting strangely around him. Continue to be the same funny, good-humored girl that he has always known you to be, but be just a little more sexy and flirtatious. Increase physical contact with him, such as giving him longer hugs than usual, and touch his arm while you're talking. Tilt your head flirtatiously when you talk to him, and play with your hair. Invite him to parties as your date. If you get invited to a party or dance, ask him to join you as your date. Take care to make it clear that you're not asking him to accompany you as a favor from a friend. Do your best to look amazing, like he's never seen you dress before. He's more likely to see you in a different light if you make a drastic change to your appearance for this one special occasion. Communicate with your eyes. Make eye contact with him while he's talking and listen attentively. A directed gaze such as this communicates to the other person that you find them interesting and appealing. Laugh, smile often, and sit close to him when you're together. Use his whole face as a focal point while you are listening to him, and if you feel like you are staring, look away for a moment as if in deep thought, or move your gaze to another part of his face. Tell him how you feel. Set aside a time to talk to him, in a place where you are both comfortable. It will be scary telling him how you feel, since you are putting yourself out there without being sure of his feelings for you. That being said, do your best to take the drama out of it, or you will only make him uncomfortable, especially if he has no idea what's coming. Make sure that you tell him how you feel at an appropriate time, when neither of you is stressed out or in a hurry. Share a story with him, either about yourself or a favorite memory of the two of you. Sharing a memory with him will naturally help you open up to him, and will give him a sense of belonging with you. Keep it short and sweet. You can say “Hey, I like hanging out with you” or “you mean a lot to me. Do you want to take our friendship to the next level?” Accept his answer. If he says no, remember to accept and understand his response, whatever it may be. Your ability to understand and respect each other is most likely one of the reasons why you both became friends in the first place. Also, give yourself some credit, because telling your best friend you have feelings for him is a brave thing to do! If he says no, but you both still want to remain friends, give yourself and him a few days to get past any lingering awkwardness. Even if his response is what you were hoping for, your interactions with each other are likely to be awkward for a little while as each of you figures out how to act as you move from friends into a relationship. | Figure out how he feels about you. Ask your friends for advice. Be certain of your own feelings. Take care of your appearance. Be truthful around him. Be mysterious. Be true to yourself. Be a good friend. Flirt with him. Invite him to parties as your date. Communicate with your eyes. Tell him how you feel. Accept his answer. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Calculate-Probability | How to Calculate Probability | Probability is the likelihood that a specific event will occur. To calculate probability, first define the number of possible outcomes that can occur. For example, if someone asks, “What is the probability of choosing a day that falls on the weekend when randomly picking a day of the week,” the number of possible outcomes when choosing a random day of the week is 7, since there are 7 days of the week. Now define the number of events. In this example, the number of events is 2 since 2 days out of the week fall on the weekend. Finally, divide the number of events by the number of outcomes to get the probability. In our example, we would divide 2, the number of events, by 7, the number of outcomes, and get 2/7, or 0.28. You could also express the answer as a percentage, or 28.5%. Therefore, there's a 28.5% probability that you would choose a day that falls on the weekend when randomly picking a day of the week. | Choose an event with mutually exclusive outcomes. Probability can only be calculated when the event whose probability you're calculating either happens or doesn't happen. The event and its opposite both cannot occur at the same time. Rolling a 5 on a die, a certain horse winning a race, are examples of mutually exclusive events. Either a 5 is rolled or it isn't; either the horse wins or it doesn't. Define all possible events and outcomes that can occur. Let's say you're trying to find the likelihood of rolling a 3 on a 6-sided die. “Rolling a 3” is the event, and since we know that a 6-sided die can land any one of 6 numbers, the number of outcomes is 6. So, we know that in this case, there are 6 possible events and 1 outcome whose probability we're interested in calculating. Here are 2 more examples to help you get oriented: Example 1 : What is the likelihood of choosing a day that falls on the weekend when randomly picking a day of the week? "Choosing a day that falls on the weekend" is our event, and the number of outcomes is the total number of days in a week: 7. Example 2 : A jar contains 4 blue marbles, 5 red marbles and 11 white marbles. If a marble is drawn from the jar at random, what is the probability that this marble is red? "Choosing a red marble" is our event, and the number of outcomes is the total number of marbles in the jar, 20. Divide the number of events by the number of possible outcomes. This will give us the probability of a single event occurring. In the case of rolling a 3 on a die, the number of events is 1 (there's only a single 3 on each die), and the number of outcomes is 6. You can also express this relationship as 1 ÷ 6, 1/6, 0.166, or 16.6%. Here's how you find the probability of our remaining examples: Example 1 : What is the likelihood of choosing a day that falls on the weekend when randomly picking a day of the week? The number of events is 2 (since 2 days out of the week are weekends), and the number of outcomes is 7. The probability is 2 ÷ 7 = 2/7. You could also express this as 0.285 or 28.5%. Example 2 : A jar contains 4 blue marbles, 5 red marbles and 11 white marbles. If a marble is drawn from the jar at random, what is the probability that this marble is red? The number of events is 5 (since there are 5 red marbles), and the number of outcomes is 20. The probability is 5 ÷ 20 = 1/4. You could also express this as 0.25 or 25%. Add up all possible event likelihoods to make sure they equal 1. The likelihood of all possible events needs to add up to 1 or to 100%. If the likelihood of all possible events doesn't add up to 100%, you've most likely made a mistake because you've left out a possible event. Recheck your math to make sure you're not omitting any possible outcomes. For example, the likelihood of rolling a 3 on a 6-sided die is 1/6. But the probability of rolling all five other numbers on a die is also 1/6. 1/6 + 1/6 + 1/6 + 1/6 + 1/6 + 1/6 = 6/6 , which = 100%. Represent the probability of an impossible outcome with a 0. This just means that there is no chance of an event happening, and occurs anytime you deal with an event that simply cannot happen. While calculating a 0 probability is not likely, it's not impossible either. For example, if you were to calculate the probability of the Easter holiday falling on a Monday in the year 2020, the probability would be 0 because Easter is always on a Sunday. Deal with each probability separately to calculate independent events. Once you've figured out what these probabilities are, you'll calculate them separately. Say you wanted to know the probability of rolling a 5 twice consecutively on a 6-sided die. You know that the probability of rolling one five is 1/6, and the probability of rolling another five with the same die is also 1/6. The first outcome doesn't interfere with the second. Consider the effect of prior events when calculating probability for dependent events. If the occurrence of 1 event alters the probability of a second event occurring, you are measuring the probability of dependent events. For example, if you choose 2 cards out of a deck of 52 cards, when you choose the first card, that affects what cards are available when you choose the second card. To calculate the probability for the second of two dependent events, you'll need to subtract 1 from the possible number of outcomes when calculating the probability of the second event. Example 1 : Consider the event: Two cards are drawn randomly from a deck of cards. What is the likelihood that both cards are clubs? The likelihood that the first card is a club is 13/52, or 1/4. (There are 13 clubs in every deck of cards.) Now, the likelihood that the second card is a club is 12/51, since 1 club will have already been removed. This is because what you do the first time affects the second. If you draw a 3 of clubs and don't put it back, there will be one less club and one less card in the deck (51 instead of 52). Example 2 : A jar contains 4 blue marbles, 5 red marbles, and 11 white marbles. If 3 marbles are drawn from the jar at random, what is the probability that the first marble is red, the second marble is blue, and the third is white? The probability that the first marble is red is 5/20, or 1/4. The probability of the second marble being blue is 4/19, since we have 1 less marble, but not 1 less blue marble. And the probability that the third marble is white is 11/18, because we've already chosen 2 marbles. Multiply the probabilities of each separate event by one another. Regardless of whether you're dealing with independent or dependent events, and whether you're working with 2, 3, or even 10 total outcomes, you can calculate the total probability by multiplying the events' separate probabilities by one another. This will give you the probability of multiple events occurring one after another. So, for the scenario; What is the probability of rolling two consecutive fives on a six-sided die? the probability of both independent events is 1/6. This gives us 1/6 x 1/6 = 1/36. You could also express this as 0.027 or 2.7%. Example 1 : Two cards are drawn randomly from a deck of cards. What is the likelihood that both cards are clubs? The probability of the first event happening is 13/52. The probability of the second event happening is 12/51. The probability is 13/52 x 12/51 = 12/204 = 1/17. You could also express this as 0.058 or 5.8%. Example 2 : A jar contains 4 blue marbles, 5 red marbles and 11 white marbles. If three marbles are drawn from the jar at random, what is the probability that the first marble is red, the second marble is blue, and the third is white? The probability of the first event is 5/20. The probability of the second event is 4/19. And the probability of the third event is 11/18. The probability is 5/20 x 4/19 x 11/18 = 44/1368 = 0.032. You could also express this as 3.2%. Set the odds as a ratio with the positive outcome as a numerator. For example, let's return to our example dealing with colored marbles. Say you want to figure out the probability of drawing a white marble (of which there are 11) out of the total pot of marbles (which contains 20). The odds of the event happening is the ratio of the probability that it will occur over the probability that it will not occur. Since there are 11 white and 9 non-white marbles, you'll write the odds as the ratio 11:9. The number 11 represents the likelihood of choosing a white marble and the number 9 represents the likelihood of choosing a marble of a different color. So, odds are that you will draw a white marble. Add the numbers together to convert the odds to probability. Converting odds is pretty simple. First ,break the odds into 2 separate events: the odds of drawing a white marble (11) and the odds of drawing a marble of a different color (9). Add the numbers together to calculate the number of total outcomes. Write this as a probability, with the newly calculated total number of outcomes as the denominator The event that you'll draw a white marble is 11; the event another color will be drawn is 9. The total number of outcomes is 11 + 9, or 20. Find the odds as if you were calculating the probability of a single event. You have calculated that there are a total of 20 possibilities and that, essentially, 11 of those outcomes are drawing a white marble. So, the probability of drawing a white marble can now be approached like any other single-event probability calculation. Divide 11 (number of positive outcomes) by 20 (number of total events) to get the probability. So, in our example, the probability of drawing a white marble is 11/20. Divide this out: 11 ÷ 20 = 0.55 or 55%. | Choose an event with mutually exclusive outcomes. Define all possible events and outcomes that can occur. Divide the number of events by the number of possible outcomes. Add up all possible event likelihoods to make sure they equal 1. Represent the probability of an impossible outcome with a 0. Deal with each probability separately to calculate independent events. Consider the effect of prior events when calculating probability for dependent events. Multiply the probabilities of each separate event by one another. Set the odds as a ratio with the positive outcome as a numerator. Add the numbers together to convert the odds to probability. Find the odds as if you were calculating the probability of a single event. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Lard | How to Make Lard | To make lard, start by cutting pork fat into 1-inch cubes and grinding them into small pieces using a food processor. Next, fill a heavy pot or dutch oven with 1/4 inch of cool water before adding the fat. Then, cover the pot and place it in a 225° Fahrenheit oven for several hours, stirring every 30 minutes. Once the chunks of fat stop giving off liquid fat, remove the pot from the oven, let the lard cool, and strain out any remaining chunks. Finally, store the lard in a sealed container in the fridge until you want to use it. | Purchase high quality pork fat. If you want to make the lard as healthy and beneficial as possible, you should purchase pork fat from a local farmer instead of a grocery store butcher. You can usually find a local farmer who raises pigs by asking around at your nearest farmer's market. You can also try small "family run" butchers or specialty markets. Select the right cut of fat. There are three main types of pork fat, and each type produces lard that is best used for different purposes. Back fat, also called fatback, comes from the back, shoulder, and rump of the pig and is located directly beneath the skin. It works well for sauteing and frying. Belly fat is rich and layered with meat. Bacon is actually cured pork belly. Rendered belly fat can also become lard used for frying, however. Leaf lard is fat located around the pig's kidneys. It is the cleanest fat and is the most suitable if you want to make lard used for pastries and baked goods. Cut the fat into small cubes. Use a very sharp knife to cut the fat into 1-inch (2.5-cm) strips. Cut across the strips crosswise to produce 1-inch (2.5-cm) cubes. The pieces should be at least this small. The smaller they are, the easier it will be to render lard from them. Cut away as much meat and skin from the fat as you dice it, as well. Also note that it will be easiest to cut the fat if it has been chilled or partially frozen beforehand. Consider grinding the fat down further. To produce even more rendered lard, put the cubes of fat through a meat grinder and grind them down into even smaller pieces. Alternatively, you could put the lard cubes into a food processor and slightly pulse them into shreds. Use no more than a handful at a time, however, since you could wear the motor out if you stress it with too much. You could skip the cutting and grinding process completely by asking the farmer or butcher to grind the fat down before you take it home. Preheat an oven to 225 degrees Fahrenheit (107 degrees Celsius). The oven needs to be set to a low temperature to prevent the fat from burning as it renders. Pour a little water into a Dutch oven. Fill the pot with about 1/4 inch (0.625 cm) of cool to warm water. The water prevents the fat from browning too quickly at the start of the process. As the fat continues to cook, the water will evaporate, so it should not affect the quality of your lard. Use a cast iron Dutch oven for best results. If you do not have one, another deep, oven-safe pot would also suffice. Add the fat. Place the chopped or ground fat in the pot. Spread the pieces out evenly to ensure even rendering. Place in the hot oven for several hours. Stir the fat every 20 to 30 minutes or so. Remove the pot from the oven once the chunks stop giving off fat. This process will usually take at least two hours. That amount of time will increase depending on the size of your pot and the amount of fat you choose to render. It will likely be obvious once the fat has been rendered off. If you think the chunks look the same way they did 40 to 60 minutes earlier, you've probably gotten as much fat from them as possible. Add a little water to a slow cooker. Pour the water directly into the bottom of the slow cooker, using 1/4 cup (60 ml) for every 4 qt (4 L) capacity or so. The water prevents the fat from burning as it melts down. Since it will evaporate out, the water will not damage the quality of the lard. Place the fat inside. Lay the pieces of pork fat inside the slow cooker, arranging them in even layers. You'll need more than one layer, but the layers should still be even so that the pork fat renders evenly. Set the slow cooker to low. Place the lid on the slow cooker and set the machine to low. Let it run for a full hour without opening it Stir and continue rendering until done. After an hour, remove the lid and stir the fat. Continue rendering the fat with the lid off until done. After the first hour, you should check on the fat every 20 to 30 minutes to make sure that it is not burning. Stir each time you check it. You may wish to ladle out some of the liquid fat throughout the process. Doing so can make it easier for the rest of the solid fat to melt down. The fat is ready once the cracklings (crisp residue) begin sinking to the bottom of the slow cooker. These cracklings should still be soft, however, and not crispy. The entire process will usually take two to eight hours, depending on the size of your slow cooker and the amount of fat being rendered. Place the fat in a large stockpot. Arrange the pieces of pork fat in a large stockpot, keeping them in even layers. The more even your layers are, the easier it will be to render the fat at an even pace and prevent any from burning. Add a little water. Pour roughly 1/4 cup (60 ml) of water over the fat inside the stockpot. You only need a little water. The water can help prevent the fat from burning during the initial stages, and it will evaporate from the stockpot as the fat continues to heat up. Cover and heat over low. Cover the stockpot and place it on a stove burner set to low heat. Allow the fat to render for about 30 minutes without disturbing it. The fat will only begin to partially melt during this time. The solid chunks will look more translucent, and some liquid will start to come off. Heat on medium, stirring often, until done. Remove the lid and give the fat a good stir. Increase the heat to medium, then continue rendering the fat for another hour or so. Keep a close eye on the fat to make sure that it does not burn. You may want to remove and strain some of the rendered fat as it melts down. Doing so can help the rest of the fat melt down quicker. The fat should be ready once the leftover cracklings start sinking and becoming crispy. Let the lard cool. Remove the lard from the heat source and allow it to cool to a lukewarm temperature. It is very important that you wait until the lard has a chance to cool slightly before pouring it into glass jars. Hot lard can cause the glass to weaken, crack, or break. Remove any remaining chunks. Ladle the rendered fat through a fine-mesh sieve to remove any solid pieces, leaving you with nothing but liquid lard. Alternatively, pour the fat through a paper coffee filter wedged inside of a cone or funnel, or through a piece of cheesecloth draped inside a colander. You can pour the lard into a separate bowl or directly into your intended storage containers. Pour the lard into jars. Transfer the filtered lard into glass jars, then tightly twist a lid onto each jar. If the jars feel warm to the touch, let them sit out on your counter for another few hours until the sides feel cool. The idea is to make the temperature change as subtle as possible to prevent that glass from becoming damaged. Refrigerate the lard. You should store the lard in your refrigerator, keeping it there for as long as one month. In a cooled state, lard is soft but solid. If you want to store the lard for as long as one year, place the jar of lard in your freezer, instead. Use as you would use any other solid cooking fat. You can use lard in the same way you would use butter or shortening. If you want to use the lard in a recipe that usually calls for oil, you will need to melt it down into a liquid form. | Purchase high quality pork fat. Select the right cut of fat. Cut the fat into small cubes. Consider grinding the fat down further. Preheat an oven to 225 degrees Fahrenheit (107 degrees Celsius). Pour a little water into a Dutch oven. Add the fat. Place in the hot oven for several hours. Add a little water to a slow cooker. Place the fat inside. Set the slow cooker to low. Stir and continue rendering until done. Place the fat in a large stockpot. Add a little water. Cover and heat over low. Heat on medium, stirring often, until done. Let the lard cool. Remove any remaining chunks. Pour the lard into jars. Refrigerate the lard. Use as you would use any other solid cooking fat. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-a-Skin-Yeast-Infection-Naturally | How to Treat a Skin Yeast Infection: Can Natural Remedies Help? | To treat a skin yeast infection naturally, rub coconut oil on the yeast infection 3 times a day to kill the fungi. If you don't have coconut oil, you can also try putting 2-3 drops of tea tree oil on your skin. Since a weakened immune system can cause fungi to grow, make sure to get plenty of sleep and eat fresh produce. It's also important to practice good hygiene and get regular exercise to keep your immune system strong. | Use tea tree oil to kill the fungus. Tea tree oil is a well-known natural antimicrobial and shows success in killing Candida fungus. It could be effective in concentrations from 0.25% to 1% if you apply it regularly. Not all essential oils come diluted, so check to make sure the oil is diluted before applying it to your skin. If the oil isn't diluted, mix it with a carrier oil like jojoba. Add 1 drop of tea tree oil to each teaspoon (5 ml) of carrier oil for a 1% concentration. The rash may still take some time to clear up, so continue using the oil for 1-2 weeks to see if there is any improvement. Try coconut oil. Pure coconut oil also shows some promise for killing Candida fungus and is a potential treatment for strains resistant to conventional antifungal medication. For use on your skin, take a small amount on your fingertip and massage it into the rash. Repeat this treatment once a day. Good-quality coconut oil is solid and waxy. If it's liquid, then it usually has some additives or it's too hot. You can also eat coconut oil, but it's very high in saturated fat so don't use too much. See if oregano oil works. Oregano oil is a powerful essential oil that can kill fungus like Candida. If other treatments don't help, then try massaging this oil into the rash to see if it works. There isn't an agreed-upon dose or application schedule for oregano oil. Try starting out with applying the oil once a day to see if you notice a difference. Keep the rash clean and dry. Keeping the rash and surrounding area clean and dry is a good way to stop the fungus from spreading. Wash the rash normally with a gentle soap, then pat it dry with a towel. Don't use the towel that you dried yourself with again before washing it. You could spread the fungus to other parts of your body. Make sure your skin is dry before you get dressed, because fungus grows in moist environments. Rub the area with absorbent powder to keep it dry. A bit of powder can soak up any leftover moisture and keep the rash dry. This helps prevent the fungus from spreading. This is especially important if the rash is in a spot where you often get sweaty, like your armpit or a fold of your skin. Keep the rash exposed to air if you can. The fungus can't reproduce as well if it's exposed to air. If the rash is in a convenient spot, like your arm or neck, then don't cover it with your clothes or a bandage. Expose it to the air as much as possible. Keeping the rash uncovered is also helpful for preventing sweat from building up and irritating your skin more. Wear loose-fitting clothing if the rash is in a private spot. You can't always keep the rash uncovered, especially if it's on certain parts of your body. In these cases, wear loose-fitting clothing as much as possible until the rash clears up. This prevents moisture and heat from building up and allowing the fungus to reproduce. If you're prone to these infections, then wearing loose-fitting clothing regularly is a good preventative measure. Lose wight if you have to. Being overweight could put you at a higher risk for skin yeast infections because the fungus could hide in folds of your skin. If you are overweight, talk to your doctor to determine the ideal weight for yourself. Then design an exercise and diet regimen to reach that weight. Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes. People with diabetes are more susceptible to skin infections like Candida when their blood sugar is out of balance. If you have diabetes, follow your treatment regimen, take your medications, and follow the recommended diet to reduce your risk for yeast infections. If you do have diabetes and develop a fungal rash, see your doctor right away. These rashes could lead to infections, especially if they're on your feet. Apply an over-the-counter antifungal cream to clear the rash. A much more effective treatment for a yeast infection is an antifungal cream, which you can purchase from any pharmacy. The application instructions may vary depending on the type that you get, but in most cases you have to apply the cream daily for 1-2 weeks. The rash should start improving within 1 week of this treatment. Common antifungal creams are miconazole and clotrimazole. If you aren't sure which one to get, ask the pharmacist for guidance. Always read and follow the application instructions on the cream that you use. Visit a dermatologist for a stronger prescription cream if you need it. If the rash doesn't improve within a week of OTC treatment, then you may need a more powerful cream. Visit a dermatologist for an exam. They will probably write you a prescription for a stronger cream. In most cases, you will apply this cream the same way as you applied the OTC cream. Within a week or 2, the rash should clear up. Always follow your dermatologist's instructions and use the cream exactly as directed. Don't stop using it too early or the rash could come back. Keep your dermatologist informed and go in for a follow-up visit if the rash doesn't get better. Take antifungal medication for persistent infections. In less common cases, the yeast infection may not respond to topical treatments. In this case, your dermatologist will probably prescribe an oral antifungal medication instead, usually in tablet form. Take this medication exactly as your dermatologist tells you to and finish the entire course to fight the infection. Never stop taking the medication too early. The fungus might not be completely gone and the rash could come back. You may need oral medication if you have a compromised immune system and can't fight the infection yourself. | Use tea tree oil to kill the fungus. Try coconut oil. See if oregano oil works. Keep the rash clean and dry. Rub the area with absorbent powder to keep it dry. Keep the rash exposed to air if you can. Wear loose-fitting clothing if the rash is in a private spot. Lose wight if you have to. Control your blood sugar if you have diabetes. Apply an over-the-counter antifungal cream to clear the rash. Visit a dermatologist for a stronger prescription cream if you need it. Take antifungal medication for persistent infections. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-Between-Paperback-and-Hardback-Books | How to Choose Between Paperback and Hardback Books | If you want to read a book as soon as it's released, you'll have to purchase a hardback copy. If you can wait a few months, buying a paperback will save you between $10 and $15. Spring for a hardback book if you want something fancy to display on a shelf, keep for a long time, or give as a present. Look for a paperback copy if you need something light to hold in your hands or read during travel. | Save money by buying paperback. As all readers on a budget know, paperback is the cheapest option out there. Trade paperbacks may be up to $10-$15 cheaper. Mass-market versions, which are the cheaply made “short and fat” editions, may even cost less than $10. Buy hardback if you want to read the book as soon as it’s released. Most books are first released as hardbacks, then re-released in a paperback form a few months later as a marketing boost. If you've been waiting and waiting for a book to come out, treat yourself with the more expensive copy so you can devour it right away. Choose paperback if you’ll be reading while traveling. Lightweight and floppy, paperbacks are great for plane and car rides or even your daily commute. Stash a paperback in your bag or even in your back pocket if you'll have downtime to do some reading during the day. Choose hardback if you plan to keep it for a long time. Hardbacks are built to last, able to withstand both daily wear and tear and the test of time. Paperbacks are easier to rip, wrinkle and stain, and over time, the glue of the spine may weaken or the paper start to deteriorate. If you'd rather not dedicate all that time and effort to preserving a paperback, choose a longer-lasting hardcover. Buy a hardback as a gift. If you're gifting a book to a friend or family member, try to go for a hardback edition. They look nicer and feel more satisfying to open as a gift, and your loved one will appreciate that you sprung for the fancier version. Don't worry if you don't have the funds for a hardback copy, or if it's out of stock. The most important thing is that you've chosen a good book for your loved one to enjoy! Choose a cover to match the other books on your shelf. Some readers love to have all their books be the same height--it just looks better on the shelf, don't you think? Paperbacks tend to range more in height, so for an even shelf look, go with the more consistent hardback editions. Trade paperbacks will sometimes be released in a hardback-style height, so check the measurements of your shelf and your other books before you completely rule out a paperback. If the height matches, you can save a couple dollars while maintaining the even line of your bookshelf. Choose an edition to match the others in a series. If the book you're buying is part of a series, try to keep it consistent. If the rest of the series is in hardcover, buy a hardcover; if the other books are paperback, go with paperback. Aesthetically-minded book lovers almost universally agree that it looks better on the shelf! Buy a paperback for ease of holding. Thanks to their lighter weight and smaller size, paperbacks are easier to hold with one hand. You can easily read them while relaxing in bed or on the couch, or while holding onto a strap or pole on the subway. Choose a hardback for the ease of laying it flat. Some paperbacks may pose a problem if you don't like to break the spine of a book, which gives it long vertical wrinkles; you may find yourself barely cracking it open to preserve that smooth spine, which can make it difficult to actually read! The hardier covers of hardback books make this a non-issue. You can easily lay the book flat to read on a table or on your lap. Choose the version with a more appealing cover. Hardbacks in particular are known for their gorgeous designs. Even if a hardback version isn't considered a “special edition,” you may still get beautiful art on the dust jacket, the cover under the jacket, and even on the pages that isn't available in a paperback version. On the flipside, sometimes the paperback cover of a book will appeal to you more! If aesthetics are your main concern, simply go with whatever book strikes your fancy. Self-publish in hardback to appeal to critics and aesthetic readers. Publishing your book in hardback will be expensive, but many readers may love the higher quality. It also might help your book get picked up by news outlets and book critics, who are more likely to consider a hardback as a more “literary” work--unfair as that may be! Choose a trade paperback for good quality at a low price. Trade paperbacks are still weighty, about the same size as hardbacks, and printed on good paper. They have the advantage of quality craftsmanship coupled with a lower price than a hardback edition. The book still looks good, so it can appeal to readers who are on a budget but still care about a book's appearance. Save the most money by opting for a mass-market paperback. A small, mass-market edition will be the cheapest to buy and produce. They may not look as good as hardback or trade paperback versions, but publishing companies consider mass-market copies as great ways to introduce new authors and help them grow their readership. Consider e-publishing. This is a rapidly-growing medium that will expose you to many different readers online and help you conserve even more money by saving on printing costs. You may not get the satisfaction of holding the physical book in your hands, but remember that e-publishing can serve as a stepping stone to print publishing. You're on your way! Choose an audiobook to read as you multi-task. Listen to an audiobook as you drive or do chores around the house, or close your eyes and let it lull you to sleep. Though you don't get the feeling of holding the book and moving your eyes down the page, an audiobook is a great option for busy readers who like to squeeze in their book-time wherever they can get it. Try an e-reader for the ultimate convenience. E-readers are perfect for the traveling book lover; you can store an entire library in a tablet that fits in the palm of your hand and buy books easily while on-the-go. They're also more accessible to visually-impaired readers, thanks to the multiple letter size and line-spacing options available. E-books are also typically cheaper than paperback or hardback copies, though some readers may prefer the human touch of holding a physical book and turning the pages. Buy non-light-emitting e-reader to prevent strain or fatigue on your eyes. Use a reading app on your phone to read anytime, anywhere. Another great option for a reader on-the-go, reading apps such as iBooks or the Amazon Kindle app are often free (although you'll have to buy the books themselves, of course!). These are excellent options if you're unexpectedly stuck somewhere and didn't bring along a book or e-reader, or don't have room to tote along a book while you're commuting or running errands. | Save money by buying paperback. Buy hardback if you want to read the book as soon as it’s released. Choose paperback if you’ll be reading while traveling. Choose hardback if you plan to keep it for a long time. Buy a hardback as a gift. Choose a cover to match the other books on your shelf. Choose an edition to match the others in a series. Buy a paperback for ease of holding. Choose a hardback for the ease of laying it flat. Choose the version with a more appealing cover. Self-publish in hardback to appeal to critics and aesthetic readers. Choose a trade paperback for good quality at a low price. Save the most money by opting for a mass-market paperback. Consider e-publishing. Choose an audiobook to read as you multi-task. Try an e-reader for the ultimate convenience. Use a reading app on your phone to read anytime, anywhere. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Soften-Butter | How to Soften Butter | To soften butter quickly, heat it in the microwave for 5-second intervals until it's soft enough. You can also cut the butter up into small pieces before leaving it out to soften, which will help it soften faster. If you're in a rush but you don't have a microwave, put the butter in a sealable plastic bag and then flatten it with a rolling pin until it's about 1/4 inch thick. Once you're done flattening the butter, it should be softened! | Measure the amount of butter you need. Cut and measure your butter before you soften it since the stick could deform. Consult the recipe you're using to see how much butter you need before using a measuring spoon or kitchen scale to get the exact amount you need. If the butter is still in its wrapper, you may be able to see the measurements printed on the side so you can accurately cut it. Cut the butter into 1 in (2.5 cm) cubes. Use a sharp knife to cut the measured butter into small chunks. Make sure the chunks are about the same size so they all soften evenly. Separate the cubes from one another so they don't stick together since that could slow down how fast they soften. The increased surface area of the butter will allow it to soften faster. Leave the butter at room temperature for 10-20 minutes. Set the chunks of butter on a plate and cover them with a tray or aluminum foil so nothing can get into the butter. Keep the butter in a place out of direct sunlight so it doesn't melt. Leave the butter for about 20 minutes so it's soft and easily spreadable. Place the butter between 2 sheets of wax paper. Lay out a piece of wax paper on a flat countertop and set the amount of butter you need in the middle of the sheet. Put another layer of wax paper on top of the butter and press it down firmly so it stays in place. Make sure the wax paper pieces are the same size so the butter doesn't squeeze out the side. You may choose to cut the butter into cubes beforehand if you want. Hit the butter with a rolling pin 3-4 times to pound it down. Keep the wax paper in place with your non-dominant hand and hold a rolling pin by one of the handles with your other hand. Hit the butter firmly with your rolling pin 3-4 times to start the flattening process. Hit the butter until it's a uniform thickness throughout. Roll the butter flat with the rolling pin. Once the butter is slightly flattened after hitting it, hold your rolling pin with both hands and spread it out like you would with dough. Aim to get the butter between ⁄ 8 – ⁄ 4 in (0.32–0.64 cm) thick to maximize the surface area. When you're finished, peel off the top layer of wax paper. Leave the butter at room temperature for about 5 minutes. The butter should feel relatively soft after you roll it out, but leave it on your counter for another 5 minutes. Once the butter is completely soft, peel it off of the wax paper and mix it in with the rest of your ingredients. Softened butter could possibly stick to the wax paper. If you need to, scrape the butter with a knife to get it off completely. Measure the amount of butter you need for your recipe. Look at the side of the butter's wrapper to see the measurements. Use a knife to cut the amount of butter you need for your recipe. If the butter is out of the wrapper, use measuring spoons or a kitchen scale to find the amount that you need. Grate the butter into a bowl. Use the side of a box grater that has the largest holes so the butter pieces are the right size and shape for baking. Hold the grater and butter over a clean bowl so the pieces can fall in easily. Press the butter into the side of the grater with a firm amount of pressure to grate it into the bowl. Continue grating the butter until all of the pieces are in the bowl. Only move the butter up and down rather than moving the grater. This will make it easier for you to grate. Grating works best if the butter comes directly out of the fridge or freezer. Let the butter pieces soften for 5 minutes before adding it to your recipe. Leave the butter pieces in the bowl and let them heat up to room temperature for about 5 minutes. This will ensure that they're soft and mix well with any other ingredients you're using. Grated butter works best for making crumbles or shortbread since it mixes thoroughly with the other ingredients. You can grate the butter directly in the bowl with your other ingredients if you want. Heat 2 c (470 ml) of water in a pot. Put the water in a small pot and warm it up over medium heat. Keep heating the water until it starts steaming, and then reduce the temperature to low heat. You don't need to bring the water to a boil or else it may get too hot. Set a glass or metal bowl on top of the pot. Put a heat-safe bowl over the pot to cover it. Make sure the bowl covers the opening on the pot entirely or else it may not heat up as well. Let the bowl heat up for 1-2 minutes so it's warm to the touch. If you have a special double boiler pot, you can use that as well. Put your butter into the bowl to soften it. Place the amount of butter you need for your recipe inside the bowl and watch it carefully. The steam from the pot will heat up the bowl and start to soften the butter. Test the softness of the butter with a spoon to see if it's still hard or not. When the butter breaks apart easily with a spoon, take the bowl off the pot. Be sure to remove the bowl before the butter starts to melt. Cut the butter into 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) squares. Measure out the amount of butter you need for your recipe and cut it off the stick with a chef's knife. Then use your knife to cut the pieces into ⁄ 2 in (1.3 cm) chunks so it softens faster. Put all of the chunks in a microwave-safe container. You don't need to cut the butter, but it will make it soften faster in your microwave. Put the butter in your microwave for 5 seconds. Set the container of butter in the center of the microwave and turn it on for 5 seconds. Watch the butter as the microwave runs to make sure it doesn't melt. After the microwave is finished, test the hardness of your butter with your finger or a spoon. See if the cubes feel solid in the center or if they're soft. In most microwaves, your butter won't be fully softened after the first 5 seconds. Use 5 seconds increments until the butter is soft but not melted. If your butter still feels hard after the first time you microwave it, put it in for another 5 seconds. Be sure to watch the butter so it doesn't start melting. When the butter feels soft throughout, take it out and incorporate it in your recipe. Butter can melt quickly in a microwave, so be ready to stop the machine at a moment's notice. | Measure the amount of butter you need. Cut the butter into 1 in (2.5 cm) cubes. Leave the butter at room temperature for 10-20 minutes. Place the butter between 2 sheets of wax paper. Hit the butter with a rolling pin 3-4 times to pound it down. Roll the butter flat with the rolling pin. Leave the butter at room temperature for about 5 minutes. Measure the amount of butter you need for your recipe. Grate the butter into a bowl. Let the butter pieces soften for 5 minutes before adding it to your recipe. Heat 2 c (470 ml) of water in a pot. Set a glass or metal bowl on top of the pot. Put your butter into the bowl to soften it. Cut the butter into 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) squares. Put the butter in your microwave for 5 seconds. Use 5 seconds increments until the butter is soft but not melted. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Shrink-Your-Stomach | How to Shrink Your Stomach | Shrinking your stomach involves controlling your diet and exercise so that your stomach stretches less and you feel full quicker. To do this, try to eat a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables and healthy carbs, like oatmeal, brown rice, and rye, which fill you up quicker. Cut down as much as you can on foods with unhealthy fats and empty calories, such as white bread, chips, cookies, and sugary breakfast cereals, which can easily cause you to gain weight. Try to eat your meals slowly, since it takes your body about 20 minutes to start to feel full. It's also important to drink plenty of water throughout the day, which fills your stomach and makes you feel fuller. As well as maintaining a good diet, aim to exercise for 75-150 minutes a week, doing something you enjoy, like walking, swimming, biking, or dancing to help you burn calories. | Eat a balanced diet. Eating a balanced diet is important for making sure your body gets all of the nutrients in the right amounts to keep you feeling satisfied while eating less. Try to eat a diet comprised of 30% healthy carbs, 20% each of fruits and vegetables, 10% each of dairy and meat, and as little fat and sugar as possible. Healthy carbs include rye, quinoa, oatmeal, brown rice, and other nutrient-rich grains. Choose fruits and vegetables that are rich in nutrients and low in sugars, such as citrus fruits, kale, arugula, and spinach. Keep track of everything that you eat. Many people don't realize how much they eat or how often they're eating during the day. Keeping a food diary for a few days can help you realize what parts of your diet need adjusting. Some people also choose to keep track of how they're feeling and what they're doing when they eat to notice patterns in emotional eating. Additionally, you should keep track of how long it takes you to eat each meal or snack. Eating slowly can help you feel full quickly. Drink plenty of water between meals. Water can help you feel full between meals and curb cravings while not expanding your stomach like food would. However, you can also get water from vegetables like cucumbers, broccoli, and carrots, and fruits such as watermelon, plums, and apples. Alternatively, if you don't like the taste of water alone, you can drink tea or flavored water. Drinking enough water can also help prevent water retention, which can make your stomach appear larger. Eat fewer unhealthy fats and empty calories. Check the label on the back of the packaging for saturated and trans fats, which are unhealthy and can cause you to gain weight. Empty calories include almost no nutrients and they should also be avoided. Examples of empty calories include white bread, chips, cookies, jam, fruit juices, soda, and most sugary breakfast cereals. Foods high in saturated and trans fats include margarine, chips, crackers, store-bought baked goods, many frozen foods, coconut, butter, and processed meat. Practice portion control when preparing and eating meals. At home, you can make sure you're not overeating by placing leftover food in the refrigerator after putting a serving on your plate. You can take control of your portions while eating out by splitting an entree with someone, or only eating half of what is served on the plate and taking the rest home. Store tempting foods out of the way so that you're not able to access them easily. When you reduce your food intake by eating smaller portions, your body will eventually get used to eating less food. Eat slowly and only until you start to feel full. Many people overeat because they don't know when they feel full, causing their stomachs to expand temporarily to accommodate the food before digesting it. Take your time when you eat, chew each bite thoroughly, and drink water between bites. Your body will signal your brain when you've eaten enough. Pay attention to your body's signals so that you don't eat too much food. If you want food, ask yourself if you're really hungry or just craving more of the food's taste or texture. The average person's stomach capacity without any food in it is 200 mL, but when it comes time to eat, some people's stomachs can relax to accommodate 1 liter of food or more. Practice aerobic exercise 75-150 minutes per week. Aerobic exercise is great for burning calories and helping you lose weight because it raises your heart rate. Running, swimming, hiking, biking, and dancing are all forms of aerobic exercise engage your body to help with all-over weight loss. Aerobic exercise helps to complement the work that you've done by maintaining a healthy diet, and makes your body utilize the energy that you're getting from your food, rather than storing it as fat. To start out with aerobic exercise you can run , jog, or even just walk to raise your heart rate and get your body moving. After your stamina is stronger, you can move on to more high-impact activities. to tighten your core muscles. Start weight training Weight training can help you focus on toning specific areas of your body, such as the stomach. Training with weights increases your balance, stamina, and flexibility while also helping to build muscle and burn fat. Exercises like crunches, planks, and pull-ups engage your core stomach muscles and help to build strength in this area, which can result in a more toned look. Exercising your core won't specifically help you lose belly fat, since you can't target weight loss to one particular part of your body. However, it can help you lose weight all over and tone the muscles in your belly so they look more defined. Rotate the types of activities that you do. Commit to doing aerobic and weight training exercises throughout the week, rotating between the 2 types of activities each day. This will provide your body with some rest in between activities and allow you to focus on specific areas of your body on different days. Alternating workouts can also prevent your body from adapting to different exercises, allowing you to get the full benefits of each exercise. Resist the temptation to “crash” diet. Extremely restrictive diets that don't allow for the consumption of specific food groups are unsustainable. Although these diets might cause your stomach to look and feel smaller initially, the results won't last due to constant hunger and your body not getting the nutrients that it needs. Restrictive diets can cause you to “binge” once the diet is over, which can make you feel sick by filling your stomach past its normal capacity in one sitting. Allow yourself an occasional indulgence. Much like crash diets, a healthy diet can become unhealthy when you begin to restrict yourself from all sugars, fats, and “bad” foods. You might find it helpful to allot yourself 1 time per week when you can indulge a craving or eat your favorite unhealthy meal. Remember to always practice portion control to not gorge yourself or make yourself feel sick. Eat small snacks throughout the day to curb cravings. Many people restrict themselves to only 3 meals per day and are left feeling hungry. Having a healthy snack like nuts, a granola bar, or a piece of fruit can keep you satisfied between meals and help to avoid overeating. Eating several snacks or small meals throughout the day whenever you feel hungry can also help retrain your brain and stomach and make you more aware of your body's hunger and satiation signals. | Eat a balanced diet. Keep track of everything that you eat. Drink plenty of water between meals. Eat fewer unhealthy fats and empty calories. Practice portion control when preparing and eating meals. Eat slowly and only until you start to feel full. Practice aerobic exercise 75-150 minutes per week. to tighten your core muscles. Rotate the types of activities that you do. Resist the temptation to “crash” diet. Allow yourself an occasional indulgence. Eat small snacks throughout the day to curb cravings. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Build-a-Motor | How to Build a Motor | To build a motor, first you'll need to make a wire coil by wrapping copper wire around a cylindrical object, like a battery. Then, remove the object and wrap the ends of the wire around the coil several times and tie a knot. Once you've made the coil, strip any insulation off the ends of the wire and color one side of each end with permanent marker. Next, straighten out the ends of 2 metal paperclips and tape the ends to opposing sides of a D battery. Finally, slide the ends of the wire coil into the paperclips and secure a magnet to the battery below the coil. | Gather all of your materials. This project will require copper wire (anything from 24 to 28 gauge will do), a magnet, electrical tape, a D battery, and two paper clips. Place them all on the table in front of you so you have easy access as you go about assembling the motor. You will also need wire strippers or a blade if your wire is insulated. You can purchase all of these things at your local hardware store or at most large retail stores. Roll wire around a cylindrical object like a battery to make a coil. Take the D battery or any other cylindrical object and wrap your wire around it at least 7 to 10 times with 2 inches (5.1 cm) of wire sticking out from each end. This will create a coil that will ultimately make up the majority of the motor. Keep the coil tight as you wrap the wire around the battery. Make sure to leave plenty of slack on either end of the coil as you wrap it. Loosen the coil (if necessary) and remove the battery. Pull the battery (or whatever cylinder you used) out from the top or bottom of the loop you created with the wire and set it aside. You should be left with just a coil. Be careful not to let the wire unravel as you handle the coil. If the battery or cylinder is stuck, loosen the coil wrapped around it a bit to slide it out. Wrap each end of the wire around the coil several times. Take one end of the wire and pull it through the coil so it wraps around the wire and helps to hold the shape of the coil. Then repeat the process with the other end of the wire on the opposite side of the loop of the coil. You may want to wrap each end around the wire 2 or 3 times. Make sure to leave at least 2 inches (5.1 cm) of wire extending out of each end of the coil. Tie a knot around the coil with each loose end of wire. Press the end of the wire through the coil one more time, then run the wire through the loop that creates to secure it like a knot around the coil. Then repeat the process on the opposite side of the coil using the other end of the wire. Once finished, the coil should look like a wire circle with the two ends extending out from opposing sides. These knots aren't required for the function of the motor, but will help ensure the coil doesn't unravel when you're not holding it. Add electrical tape to opposite ends of the coil if it seems loose. If the loop of the coil isn't holding its shape well, take a small piece of tape and wrap it around the wire on the top or bottom, where the wire ends aren't extending out from. Use the same size piece of tape on the other side of the coil to keep it balanced. You don't need much electric tape. A piece only about.5 inches (1.3 cm) long will be fine. If the coil holds the shape of a circle without the tape, you can skip this step. Pull the wire ends out away from the coil. The extended ends of the wire should be pointed straight out from either side of the loop and extend for around 2 inches (5.1 cm). Work any small bends out of the wire that is extended so they are more or less completely straight. Make sure that where the wires extend out from the loop on either side is even, so the coil will be even once the motor is assembled. Strip off the insulation on both ends, if present. If the wire you are using has insulation on it, you will need to expose the wire beneath. Use a pair of wire strippers or a blade to slice through the insulation layer without damaging the wire, then pull the insulation away from the wire to expose it. Make sure that at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) of wire is exposed on both sides. If the wire is not insulated, you can skip this step. Coat one side of each wire end with a permanent marker. Hold the coil in one hand with your index finger and thumb so the loop is standing upright and the wires are extending out to either side. Then use a permanent marker to color in just the top of the exposed wire extending out from either side. Only color in the top side of the exposed wire on either side. Leave the bottom side uncolored. This variation in the wire will help to engage the motor. Stretch out the ends of two metal paper clips. Take your paper clips and unfold the ends of them so they are straight. Leave the remaining loop of the paper clip intact. It will hold the extended ends of the wire on your coil once the motor is assembled. The paper clips should now each look like a loop with a long arm extending from it. If you don't have paper clips, you can create loops with stiff wire for the same purpose. Tape the extended ends of each paperclip to opposing sides of a D battery. Lay the battery on its side. Place the extended end of one paper clip against the positive side of the D battery and secure it in place with a piece of tape. Then touch the extended end of the other paper clip to the negative side of the battery and tape it in place too. Make sure both paperclips are pointed in the same direction. You can add some more tape to the bottom of the battery to keep it from rolling from side to side, but it's optional. Slide the ends of the coil into the paperclips like a holder. Holding the battery to prevent it from rolling (unless you created a tape kickstand) insert the extended wire from one side of the coil into one of the paper clips, and then slide the other extended end through the other paper clip. Let go of the coil so it is resting on the paper clips via the extended and exposed arms of the coil. If the paper clips are too far apart, bend them inward so they can hold the coil. Use tape to secure a magnet to the battery below the coil. Place a piece of tape over your magnet, then pick it up and stick it onto the battery centered beneath the coil you just put on. The battery will provide a current that flows through the coil, which when coupled with the magnet, will force the coil to rotate. The magnet is the final piece you need to complete the motor, so you may spot the coil quiver a bit as you put it in place. Secure the magnet with tape so you don't have to hold it in place. There is no risk of injury or shock when doing this, but always exercise caution when working with electronics. Remove or adjust anything the prevents the coil from spinning. If the coil will run into the magnet as it spins, remove the tape holding the paper clips to either side of the battery and move them up until the coil can clear the battery. The coil needs to be able to spin freely in order for the motor to work. If you used the battery to create your coil, it should be small enough to skip this step. Adjust the balance by moving the paperclips to make the motor spin freely. You may need to experiment a bit with the placement and positioning of the paper clips to hold the coil in place. Squeeze them in close if the ends of the wire keep popping out or bend them out further if the clips are coming into contact with the loop of the coil itself. Make sure both paperclips are even with one another. If they're crooked, it could impede the coil from spinning. Give the coil a little spin if it doesn’t start on its own. If the coil doesn't begin to spin on its own, nudge it with your finger to get it started. If it doesn't spin, press on the tape holding the paper clips to the battery to ensure they're secure. The coil will likely begin to spin freely. If it does, the motor is complete. The coil will continue to spin until the battery is depleted or you stop it. Try the opposite direction if it still doesn’t spin. If the motor doesn't start spinning when you nudge it in one direction, try nudging it in the opposite direction to see if that works. This motor should only spin one way, so you may just need to try both directions to find the right one. Once it starts spinning, it won't stop unless you stop it. If it doesn't start spinning, check to make sure your connections are all strong and then try again. | Gather all of your materials. Roll wire around a cylindrical object like a battery to make a coil. Loosen the coil (if necessary) and remove the battery. Wrap each end of the wire around the coil several times. Tie a knot around the coil with each loose end of wire. Add electrical tape to opposite ends of the coil if it seems loose. Pull the wire ends out away from the coil. Strip off the insulation on both ends, if present. Coat one side of each wire end with a permanent marker. Stretch out the ends of two metal paper clips. Tape the extended ends of each paperclip to opposing sides of a D battery. Slide the ends of the coil into the paperclips like a holder. Use tape to secure a magnet to the battery below the coil. Remove or adjust anything the prevents the coil from spinning. Adjust the balance by moving the paperclips to make the motor spin freely. Give the coil a little spin if it doesn’t start on its own. Try the opposite direction if it still doesn’t spin. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-an-Elastic-Headband | How to Make an Elastic Headband | To make an elastic headband, start by measuring your head with a flexible tape measure, starting at the nape of your neck and wrapping the tape measure around where you want your headband to rest. Then, cut a piece of fold-over elastic to fit around your head, and seal the cut ends of the elastic using the flame from a lighter. Finally, bring the ends together and connect them using hot glue or by sewing them together. | Measure your head. For the best fit, use a flexible tape measure like one you would find in a sewing kit. Measure the head of the person who will be wearing the headband from the nape of the neck, up over their head where the headband will be and completing the loop back at the nape. If the person is unavailable to be measured, you can use these general guidelines: Preemie: 11”-12” Newborn: 13” Up to 1: 14” 1-6: 15” 7-Teen: 16.5” Adult: 17.5” Especially with babies, be sure to get a good fit that is not too tight. Constricting an infant's head could have a problematic effect on its growth and development. Choose your elastic. Choose a fold-over elastic. This is the preferred elastic for headbands. It is available in a variety of colors and patterns at your local fabric store or hobby shop. Fold-over elastic has a finished, shiny side and a matte underside, and a seam running longways down the middle. This elastic comes in 1/8”, 3/8” and 5/8” widths. The one most commonly use for headbands is 3/8", but some like a thin 1/8" headband, especially for babies. Some elastic is made with silicone strips in the back. This is useful if you are concerned about the headband slipping. Cut the elastic to fit your head. Measure the piece of elastic according to the measurements you took or the average length for the age of person you are creating the headband for. If you are using actual head measurements, keep in mind that you want the headband to stretch. Subtract one inch from the head size to make sure the headband will be snug. Test your size to make sure there is some stretch in the fabric. If the person who you are making the headband for is there, wrap the elastic around their head and make sure that the elastic stretches just enough to hold the headband in place once it is complete. Beware of making the headband so tight that it would be uncomfortable. Seal the cut ends of the elastic. There are a couple of ways you could go about sealing the ends of the elastic. You can apply a product which was created to seal fabric, or you may choose to heat the ends. Either way, you want to be sure to seal the ends so that they won't fray. Look for a fray-stop spray at your local fabric store and spray both ends of your elastic. To seal the ends with heat, quickly pass the ends through a flame to singe them. Curve the elastic into a circle. Keeping the shiny, finished side on top, curve the elastic into a circle until the ends overlap about a quarter of an inch. Be sure not to accidentally twist the elastic when you are creating your circle. The headband should lay flat on your head. Connect the ends of the headband together. Heat a hot glue gun to a high temperature. Press the button on the glue gun to release glue and drag it across the width of the top of one end of your elastic band. Carefully place the other end on top of the glue and press the ends together. Hold this in place for a few seconds. Be careful not to burn yourself. The glue will be very hot. Wait 30 minutes for the glue to dry completely before wearing the headband. You can also sew the ends together. Thread a needle with a thread that matches your elastic and put a few stitches through the overlapped ends. Tie a knot to secure the stitches. Slide a decoration onto the headband before securing the ends. You can find headband sliders at craft and fabric stores. These decorative pieces have metal or plastic backs which slide onto the elastic strap. Thread the strap up through the first hole in the slider, over the center piece, and back down through the second hole, then slide it onto the elastic strap. Once you secure the ends, you can put the headband on and slide the decoration into the proper place. Pin decorative broaches or pins to the headband. Add a little glitz and glitter with pins and broaches. Once you have completed the headband, decide where you want the decoration and stick the pin through the headband and secure it in place. Be sure to line up the pin so that it is not lopsided on the headband. Glue a decorative flower into the headband. Choose a fabric flower which is larger than the width of your headband. Cut a felt circle slightly larger than the width of your headband and smaller than the size of the flower. Cover one side of the felt with hot glue and do the same with the bottom of the flower. Place the felt piece on the underside of the headband and the flower on top of that part of the headband. Press and hold the two pieces together. It is a good idea to place this flower over the seam to cover it and give your headband a nice, clean look. Allow 30 minutes for the glue to dry. Add a loop that allows you to change out multiple decorations. Cut another small piece of elastic. The length should equal to 3 times the width of the headband. Line it up along the top of the seam and wrap one end around the bottom of the headband. Hot glue this end in place, then wrap the other end of the small piece of elastic around the headband and glue it to the first end of the small piece of elastic to finish off the loop. Now you have a hairband which can hold any decoration you have on a clip by sliding it through the loop and clipping it in place. You can also glue flowers or other decorations to a clip if they are not already fixed to one. | Measure your head. Choose your elastic. Cut the elastic to fit your head. Test your size to make sure there is some stretch in the fabric. Seal the cut ends of the elastic. Curve the elastic into a circle. Connect the ends of the headband together. Slide a decoration onto the headband before securing the ends. Pin decorative broaches or pins to the headband. Glue a decorative flower into the headband. Add a loop that allows you to change out multiple decorations. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Teach-Kindergarten | How to Teach Kindergarten | Being a kindergarten teacher is all about creating a structured class that is both nurturing and supportive. Establishing a consistent routine will give your class structure and help your kids know what to expect. Make a simple daily schedule that allows for restroom breaks and meal times. It's also important that you let your kids know what behavior you expect from them so they're kind and respectful to each other. To help support a desire to learn, find ways to nurture their curiosity. For example, have them count rocks or blocks to learn about math, or use puppets to talk to them about animals and their environment. You can also spend time reading to your class to encourage early reading and listening skills. | Keep a binder for planning your classroom and routine. If you're feeling overwhelmed about teaching or just want to keep track of your schedule, get a binder that has dividers and tabs. File important information that you'll need during the school day so it's conveniently in one place. For example, your files or tabs could include: Lesson plans School calendar To do lists Contact information Field trips Meeting notes Set up your classroom. Find out how many students you'll have and then plan for a few more in case you get kids later in the year. Set up tables and chairs in small groups and leave space for cubbies or storage. It's important to structure the room so there aren't hiding places where kids can run off to. Label each desk with the children's names and photos. Create labels for toy bins and include pictures for closed containers. If you find that you don't sit at your desk very often or use it much at the end of the day, take it out of your classroom. This will free up valuable space in the room. Give the kids firm expectations and stick to the standards. Even though the kids can't read yet, write out the classroom rules or expectations on a large poster board. Talk with them about acceptable behavior and let them know that you won't allow misbehavior. Be consistent in handling misbehavior so the kids learn boundaries. To help create a sense of community, involve your students in creating simple rules for the classroom. Choose a few books about rules and good behavior to read with your students. Don't forget that kindergartners will also have expectations about how kindergarten should go. Ask the kids what they expect to learn or do while they're at school and help them work toward their goals. Communicate with your students' parents. For some parents, kindergarten may be the first time they've left their children for an extended period of time. Ensure that you have the parents' phone numbers and can reach them during the day. To keep the lines of communication open, leave time to talk with parents at the end of the class day or send home newsletters about classroom activities. To get to know the parents, set up a “meet the teacher” night before school starts. Schedule parent-teacher conferences on a regular basis. Pass a communication log or notebook back and forth between yourself and the parents of children with special needs or those with behavioral challenges to stay up to date on the child's needs and progress. For a fun way to keep in touch, have the parents write their address on an envelope. Mail a card or letter to the parents if you have concerns, questions, or praise about their child. Take care of yourself and try not to lose your patience. Kindergartners take a lot of energy, so rest up before school begins and eat right. If you're feeling your best, you'll probably be less likely to lose your temper or get frustrated easily. If you start to lose your patience, remember that your students are only 5 years old and they may be overwhelmed or overstimulated in the classroom. Remember that a child's attention span is approximately their age in minutes. So, 5-year-olds may only be able to focus on a task for 5-10 minutes at a time. If you are overwhelmed, ask if another teacher can cover you for a bathroom break and do a short 5-minute meditation. Set up learning-based centers in the classroom. Young children learn best by playing, so encourage them to interact with play centers. Create distinctive play areas or scatter playing materials throughout the classroom. Label each center. For example, have a water or sand table set up in 1 corner of the room. Put blocks and construction materials in another space. Then, set up a reading nook in another corner. Create rule charts with pictures for each center. For instance, make a sign that says “no splashing” with a picture of a splash surrounded by a red circle with a diagonal line through it and post it next to the water table. Take your class outside. All kindergartners, especially those who struggle to sit at a desk for long periods of time, will benefit from getting to move around outside. Get the class outside and have them explore. Talk with them about plants that grow, what the weather is like, or insects you find. Use a branch to write letters in the snow or draw shapes for the kids to identify. If you'll be taking the children outside in poor weather, ensure they all have the right outdoor gear. Consider keeping umbrellas or mittens that you can distribute to the kids. Include gross motor activities in your daily schedule. Play with your students. Young kids will be more excited about learning if you make the subject fun. Instead of telling the kids what you're going to be teaching them, create a story around the information and ask them to play along with you. Remember that you can play using instruments. Give the children small instruments or noise makers and have the kids play their instruments in a specific order. This is a great way to teach patterns. For example, instead of saying, "You're going to be learning about the ocean and sea animals," tell them, "Today, we're going to explore 1 of the most beautiful and amazing places on the planet. Will you come with me to discover what creatures live in the ocean?" Ask open-ended questions when the kids play. Get the children thinking like explorers, scientists, or adventurers. When you notice a child playing, go over to them and watch for a minute. They may want to show you what they're doing. Ask them questions to encourage learning. For example, say, "I see you put that nut in the water. Is it floating or sinking? What do you think would happen if you put a rock in the water?" Create a daily schedule. Your schedule doesn't have to be planned down to the minute, but it can help kids to expect a simple routine. Remember to plan for transitions, restroom breaks, and meal times. A simple daily schedule may include: 8:30 to 9:00: Arrival and welcome 9:00 to 10:15: Listening to stories and working on letters 10:15 to 10:45: Snack, outdoor play, and bathroom breaks 10:45 to 11:30: Playing in learning-based centers 11:45 to 12:15: Lunch and bathroom breaks 12:15 to 12:35: Quiet time 12:35 to 1:30: Social studies and science experiments 1:30 to 2:20: Outdoor exploration and bathroom breaks 2:20 to 2:35: Cleanup and dismissal Use toys and tools to introduce basic math. Have your kindergartners count blocks, beads, or stickers so they can work on counting large numbers. Use these items to help the kids understand addition and subtraction. Instead of giving kindergartners math equations to solve, phrase them as word problems. For example, give 1 child 3 balls. Ask the child how many balls they'll have if they give 2 to a friend. Remember to include math throughout the day. For example, if a child collects leaves, ask them to count how many they gathered. Get the kids excited about physical and life science. Young children are naturally curious about the world around them. Foster that enthusiasm by doing hands-on science activities. For example, use puppets or small animal toys to teach kids about animals and their environments. Give kids the opportunity to do science experiments such as: Growing simple plants Activating yeast in water Making an exploding volcano Mixing up their own slime Encourage early reading and listening skills. Spend a lot of time reading to your class to develop their pre-reading skills. Since some kids learn better when they see things, show the words to the kids or use puppets to act out parts of a story. For example, choose a letter to focus on for the day. Show the kids the letter and read them a tongue twisters or rhymes that use that letter. Ask kids to point to words when they see them. Don't force the kid to identify the word. Instead, sound it out together so the child begins to recognize the sounds that letters make. Set clear and consistent behavior expectations. Talk with your class about appropriate behavior and explain to them that they all need to respect each other. If you do see misbehavior, talk with the student immediately so they learn that that behavior isn't acceptable. For example, if you see a student call another a name, tell them, "Name calling hurts feelings. Let's see if there's something kind we can say instead." Set up a reward system for good behavior if the children are struggling with the rules. Similarly, create a communication log to inform parents of behavioral issues. Help students develop social skills. Kindergarten may be some children's first experience interacting with a bunch of kids. Encourage the kids to play together and include one another in their schoolwork. Remind the kids that everyone is different and that your classroom is a place for friendship. Get the kids to pair up when you take them out of the classroom and have them keep track of their "buddy." Create a lesson plan designed around a particular social skill if you notice your students struggling with it. Get talkative students to listen. Let the students know that it's not acceptable to talk when you need their full attention. If you still have students that talk over you or need constant attention, praise them when you notice good behavior. Ask them to assist you with parts of the school day and make them feel involved. They'll be more likely to listen to you, especially if you ask them to quiet down. For example, say, "I need you to stop telling your story now so we can have circle time. Would you pass out these books to the class for me? It would be a big help." Use a quiet down signal, such as chanting “one, two, three” to which the students can respond “all eyes on me!” Help students calm down if they're having a meltdown. Create a space in your classroom where kids can choose to go if they're feeling angry, upset, or overwhelmed. Fill the space with pillows or blankets, books about emotions, stress balls, or art supplies. When the child is ready to come out of the calm down space, identify what they were feeling and let them talk to you about it. For example, say, "You were really mad that she took your drawing. Would you like to come over and work on a project with this group?" Make a note of what caused the meltdown and let the child's parents know what happened. | Keep a binder for planning your classroom and routine. Set up your classroom. Give the kids firm expectations and stick to the standards. Communicate with your students' parents. Take care of yourself and try not to lose your patience. Set up learning-based centers in the classroom. Take your class outside. Play with your students. Ask open-ended questions when the kids play. Create a daily schedule. Use toys and tools to introduce basic math. Get the kids excited about physical and life science. Encourage early reading and listening skills. Set clear and consistent behavior expectations. Help students develop social skills. Get talkative students to listen. Help students calm down if they're having a meltdown. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Your-Dog-to-Ride-in-a-Carrier | How to Get Your Dog to Ride in a Carrier | To get your dog to ride in a carrier, expose it to the carrier a few weeks before traveling. Try placing the carrier near your dog's bed or toys and use an excited voice when you get it out so your dog can associate it with a positive experience. Once your pup is more comfortable around the carrier, lure it in with a trail of treats and let it explore the carrier at its own pace. As it becomes easier to get your dog in, let it stay in the carrier for 5 to 10 minutes at a time while you talk to it so it doesn't feel alone. From there, slowly increase the time in the carrier by 15 minute intervals until your dog is comfortable being in it for a full hour. | Buy a carrier that fits your dog. Measure your dog from the ground to the top of its shoulders. This is the key measurement to consider when buying a carrier and represents your dog's height. You also want to make sure that the carrier is long enough for your dog to turn around. Measure your dog from the tailbone to the tip of the nose. Expose your dog to the carrier. Before you can expect your dog to ride in its carrier, you need to introduce your dog to it. This should be done a few weeks prior to any major travel. Place the carrier in a central spot in your home, preferably somewhere the dog normally hangs out. For example, you could put the carrier near the dog's bed or toys. You can also try using an excited voice when you get out the carrier. This way the dog will have a positive association with the new item. Play with your dog near the carrier. This will help get your dog comfortable near the carrier. It will also begin to realize that the carrier is not threatening. For example, you could play fetch or tug-of-war beside the carrier. The more positive exposure your dog has with the carrier, the more comfortable it will be. Use treats to lure the dog into the carrier. Provide your dog with an opportunity to explore the carrier on its own terms. For example, open or remove the door of the carrier and put a few treats inside. Let the dog go over to the carrier and explore it at its own pace. Never push or force the dog into the carrier. Put your dog in the carrier for short periods of time. Get your dog comfortable with the carrier by putting your dog in it for five to ten minutes at a time. At first, you should stay with the dog for comfort. Place the carrier at your feet and talk to your dog so it does not feel alone. As this become easier, increase the time the dog is in the carrier by 15 minute intervals. Continue to increase the time, until the dog is comfortable in the carrier for an hour. Once your dog is more comfortable, you can try leaving the room for short periods of time. Come up with a command word. You can train your dog to enter the carrier without treats, by using a command word. For example, you could say something like “go in your carrier” or “into your carrier.” Always use the exact same command when you are training your dog. If you switch between commands, the dog will become frustrated and confused. Train your dog to enter the carrier on command. Hold a treat in your hand and say “go in your carrier.” Then place the treat in the carrier. Once the dog goes into the carrier, reward them with another treat. Eventually your dog will associate the command with the act of entering the carrier. Begin by practicing the command without closing the dog in the carrier. As it gets more comfortable, you can close the carrier with the dog inside. Take your dog on short trips. Before embarking on a long trip, get your dog comfortable traveling inside the carrier. Take your dog to fun places, like the dog park, using the carrier. This way the dog will associate the carrier with positive trips and experiences. If you plan on taking your dog on a plane, you should take them on a car ride in the carrier first. This will help them get used to the engine noise and motion. Every time your dog takes a trip in the carrier reward it with treats and praise. Give the dog plenty of exercise before traveling long distances. If you are traveling a long distance, make sure that your dog gets plenty of exercise before the trip. This will tire your dog out and it will likely fall asleep while travelling. You do not want your dog to be restless and whine in the carrier. It is also a good idea to remove their water 2 hours before a trip. This will help prevent the dog from going to the bathroom in the carrier. Cover the bottom of the carrier with blankets. You want to make the carrier a comfortable place for your dog. Line the bottom of the carrier with blankets. If your dog has a favourite blanket that they are used to sleeping with, place it in the carrier. Do not wash your dog's blanket. The familiar smell can actually help comfort them while they are in the carrier. Put your dog’s favourite toy in the carrier. Place a toy, such as a stuffed animal in the carrier. This will give your dog something to play with or snuggle with while they are traveling. It will also help to comfort them and may even reduce their anxiety. Ask your veterinarian about sedatives. If your dog is unable to relax while traveling in the carrier, you may want to talk to your veterinarian about sedatives. Your vet will need to assess your dog's health and determine if a sedative is appropriate. You may also want to test a dose at home before traveling in order to determine the effect the sedative will have on your dog. | Buy a carrier that fits your dog. Expose your dog to the carrier. Play with your dog near the carrier. Use treats to lure the dog into the carrier. Put your dog in the carrier for short periods of time. Come up with a command word. Train your dog to enter the carrier on command. Take your dog on short trips. Give the dog plenty of exercise before traveling long distances. Cover the bottom of the carrier with blankets. Put your dog’s favourite toy in the carrier. Ask your veterinarian about sedatives. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Set-up-and-Maintain-Spa-Water-Bromine | How to Set up and Maintain Spa Water Bromine | Maintaining your spa water's bromine levels keeps it clean and gentle on your skin. When you fill your spa, you'll want to add granular sodium bromide to the water. A common ratio is 2 ounces of sodium bromide to 500 gallons of water, but follow the directions on the packet to be sure. You'll also need to add a shock treatment, which activates the bromide. You can get these products from a pool store or online. Just make sure no one's in the pool when you add the shock treatment. After that, turn on the jets and let the water circulate for 10 minutes. You'll need to add new shock treatment each week, but you can top up the bromine with tablets instead of using sodium bromide. Once the levels are stable, you can put a slow-release bromine tablet in a floater instead of adding it directly. To test your spa's bromine levels, use a bromine test strip. The ideal range is between 3 and 5 parts per million. | Remove the spa filters to avoid contamination. Find the filters on your spa system. They may be located under a lid on a corner, or inside of a canister on the side of the spa. Remove the filters by turning them and pulling them out of their compartments. Before you start flushing and cleaning the spa, you need to take out the filters so they don't collect or catch any of the grime, mildew, mold, or any other gunk that comes out of the pipes. If you can't find your filters, check the owner's manual to locate them. Flush your spa to clean the plumbing lines before you drain it. Add a spa line flush product into the spa water according to the instructions on the packaging. Turn the jets on high and allow the water to circulate for 10 minutes so the cleaner can get inside all of the inner workings of the spa to break up and remove any of the gunk and sludge that's built up in the pipes. The warm water can cause all kinds of mold, mildew, and bacteria to build up in the plumbing lines of your spa. You can find line flush at spa and pool supply stores, pool supply stores, and online. Cover the spa and allow it to sit for 12-14 hours. Turn off the jets and cover the top of the spa to make sure that additional contaminants won't get in. It's also important that nobody can swim in the water while the line flush is in it. Wait a full 12 hours to allow the cleaner to remove the residue from the plumbing lines. Make sure nobody tries to enter the spa while the lines are being flushed. Turn off the spa to allow the line flush to soak. Drain and refill your spa with fresh water. Remove the cover and drain your spa according to the manufacturer's instructions. If there is a build-up of gunky residue at the bottom of your spa, rinse it out with fresh water to remove it. Refill the spa with fresh clean water until it's completely full. Some spas may have a built-in pump that you can use to drain the water. If your spa has a drain plug, pull it to allow the water to drain. Replace the water filters into the spa. Add the clean water filters back to their original locations by sliding them into place. Make sure they're securely installed so they can properly filter your spa water. Replace the lid if there is one so the filter area is covered. Test the pH levels to make sure they’re between 7.2 and 7.6. Use pH test strips to check the level of the water by dipping them into the liquid and comparing the color of the reaction to the color code on the box. It's important that the pH be slightly basic so the water doesn't react negatively with the bromine. You can adjust the pH of your spa water by adding baking soda to raise the pH or by adding muriatic acid to lower the pH. Look for pH test strips and muriatic acid at pool supply stores and online. Add sodium bromide to the water to create a bromide bank. For bromine to be a more effective sanitizing agent in your spa, there needs to be a residual level of bromides present in the water. When you're setting up bromine in your spa water, start by pouring in granular sodium bromide according to the directions on the packaging. A common measurement is to add 2 ounces (56.7 grams) of sodium bromide per 500 gallons (1,900 L) of water. But follow the directions on the packaging to be sure. You can find sodium bromide at pool supply stores and online. Activate the bromide by adding a shock treatment to the spa water. Use a spa shock treatment to sanitize your water and activate the bromide ions to turn them into bromine. Add the treatment according to the instructions on the packaging. Turn the jets on full blast to circulate the treatment for 10 minutes. Look for spa shock treatments at pool supply stores and online. Once it's activated, the bromine will continuously sanitize the water, keeping it clean. Test the water with bromine test strips to find the levels. The ideal range of bromine levels in your spa water are between 3.0 and 5.0 parts per million (ppm). Dip a bromine test strip into your spa water and wait for the chemicals to react and change the color of the strip. Compare the strip to the color code on the packaging to identify the range of bromine present in the water. If the bromine levels are too high, wait a day or so before using the spa to allow the levels to drop. Test the water again to see if it falls in the ideal range. Use bromine tablets to maintain the bromine level in the water. Once the bromine levels are stabilized, add bromine tablets into a floater and place it in your spa. The tablets will slowly dissolve and release bromine into the water to replace the chemical that is lost over time and keep a healthy balance in the water. If your bromine level drops too low, add an extra bromine tablet to your floater to raise it. You can find bromine tablets and floaters at pool supply stores and online. Read the directions on the packaging of the bromine tablets to make sure you're adding the right amount. Shock the spa weekly to reactivate the bromide present in the water. Shocking the water regularly will keep mold and bacteria from building up in the pipes and internal workings. It will also reactivate the bromide reserve present in the water to boost the bromine level, which will keep your water safe and sanitized. Make sure nobody uses the spa when you add a shock treatment. Follow the directions on the packaging to add the correct dosage and to allow enough time for the shock treatment to dilute to safe levels. | Remove the spa filters to avoid contamination. Flush your spa to clean the plumbing lines before you drain it. Cover the spa and allow it to sit for 12-14 hours. Drain and refill your spa with fresh water. Replace the water filters into the spa. Test the pH levels to make sure they’re between 7.2 and 7.6. Add sodium bromide to the water to create a bromide bank. Activate the bromide by adding a shock treatment to the spa water. Test the water with bromine test strips to find the levels. Use bromine tablets to maintain the bromine level in the water. Shock the spa weekly to reactivate the bromide present in the water. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-a-Hot-Girl | How to Be a Hot Girl | If you want to be a hot girl, try to act confident in social situations by speaking clearly, talking to new people, and not being afraid to say what you think, which many people find attractive. Be sure to smile, make eye contact, and focus on positive topics so people enjoy being around you! In addition to your hot girl attitude, dress in clothes and apply natural-looking makeup that emphasize your best features so that you feel confident and special. For example, make your big brown eyes stand out by applying 1-2 coats of mascara to your lashes. You can also flirt casually with people by smiling when you make brief eye contact and brushing lightly against them when you pass. | Create a wardrobe that makes you feel hot. When you feel hot, your confidence will show, which makes people find you attractive. Go through your closet and try on all of your clothes. Keep only the clothes that make you feel fabulous. When you go shopping, only buy items that help you feel your best. You don't need to wear expensive or revealing clothes to be hot. What's important is that you feel attractive because other people will pick up on that. Show off a little skin, but keep something to the imagination. Revealing clothing is undeniably sexy, so a low neckline, cropped top, or short skirt are great for creating a hot look. However, showing off too much skin can give people a negative perception of you. To keep your look hot, choose 1 revealing piece for each outfit you wear For instance, pair a top with a plunging neckline with a knee-length pencil skirt, wear a crop top with a maxi skirt or skinny jeans, and pair a mini skirt with a top that covers both your cleavage and your stomach. Wear heels to create a sexy silhouette. You don't always need to wear heels, but they're a quick way to boost your sex appeal. Heels change the curvature of your spine, so they naturally enhance your bum and breasts. In addition to creating a sexy silhouette, they can also make you feel sexier, and that confidence will make you look hotter. Wearing heels that are a similar color to your skin tone will help your legs look longer. If you have trouble walking in heels, practice at home to help you get better. Highlight your best features so people focus on them. While you might think that the hot people around you look perfect, that's just not true because no one is perfect. However, “hot” people are typically better at recognizing their best features. Stand in front of a mirror and figure out what you love most about yourself. Play up these features instead of worrying about what you don't like. For instance, you might think your eyes are your best facial feature, so you could wear bold eye makeup to draw people's eyes to them. Similarly, you might think that your legs and toned arms are your most attractive body parts, so you might choose outfits that show them off. Use makeup to bring out your best features. While you don't need makeup to be hot, it can help you enhance your natural beauty if you enjoy wearing it. Use online tutorials to help you improve your makeup technique. Then, use makeup to play up your features. For instance, try a smokey eye, wear red lipstick, or contour your face. If you're playing up your eyes, go with a subtle lip shade. Similarly, keep your eye makeup basic if you're doing a bold lip. If you're not allowed to use makeup or you don't like wearing it, don't feel like you need it to be hot. Embracing your natural beauty can also make you a “hot” girl! Get a hairstyle that flatters your face. Great looking hair helps you look your best, and the key to having a great hairstyle is to get a cut that looks great on you. Pick a style that fits your face shape and hair texture. Look for inspiration online or ask your hairstylist for advice. When you get your hairstyle, ask your stylist how to care for it and style it. Then, follow their advice so your hair looks great every day. Maintain good posture so your body looks its best. Using good posture makes you appear more confident and makes your body look its best. To have better posture, stand up straight and roll your shoulders back. Additionally, keep your chin tilted up and direct your gaze forward. Avoid hunching your shoulders or leaning forward while you walk. Smile and laugh a lot to draw people to you. When you're laughing and smiling, people are drawn to you. Additionally, it brightens up your face and makes you look more attractive. Practice smiling and laughing so that it comes naturally to you. Smile at yourself in the mirror to practice your expressions. When you're laughing, people think you're fun, so they want to be around you more. Make eye contact with people when you encounter them. Looking people in the eye creates an instant connection with them and draws people to you. When you're around people, make brief eye contact with them. Simply meet their eyes and then look away. When you're talking to someone, maintain eye contact so they feel really heard. Don't stare at people because that can make them uncomfortable. If you're uncomfortable making eye contact, practice by staring at yourself in the mirror or making eye contact with someone you love. Adopt a positive attitude so people enjoy being around you. When you're positive, people see you as being attractive and fun. Make a habit of looking for positives and pointing them out to others. Additionally, try to see the glass half-full when things are going wrong. This might be hard at first, but it'll get easy with practice. For instance, let's say it's raining outside and you get wet on your way into work. Instead of feeling like your day is off to a bad start, you could think about the positives that the rain brings, like lower temperatures and healthy plant life. Everyone has bad days, so don't feel like you've failed at being positive if you're feeling down. Just do your best to get back into your positive mindset. Interact with people when you’re in social situations. Being a social butterfly makes people see you as a confident, attractive person. At first, this might seem hard to do. Keep things simple by just talking to people and participating in what's happening. Over time, you'll get better at social interactions. Don't give up if you feel awkward at first. Try walking up to someone and saying something like, “Is this your first time here?” or “How do you know Matt?” Share your passion with other people. Being passionate about something makes you a more dynamic person, so people are more likely to see you as “hot.” Find something you're passionate about, like music, writing, sports, or helping others. Then, talk about your passion and how you're pursuing it. You might say, “Music is the thing that keeps me going. Right now, I'm working on my guitar skills so I can get a gig in the local coffee shop.” Be a little mysterious instead of sharing everything about yourself. When you seem mysterious, people are naturally drawn to you because they want to know more. Give people just enough information about you to make yourself seem interesting. However, keep some private details to yourself. For instance, let's say you've been posting your poetry online. You might be really open about how important writing is to you and how your life inspires your poems. However, you might respond with “That's too personal” or “I don't like sharing too many private details” when people ask what inspired them. Show off your smarts. Being intelligent and opinionated makes you seem like a more interesting person, which attracts people to you. Learn about topics that interest you by keeping up with the news, reading, and watching documentaries. Then, share your knowledge when you're having conversations with other people. For instance, talk about your opinions on current events or show off your knowledge about the mission to Mars program. Eat a nutritious diet for healthy skin and more energy. Don't worry about your weight or body shape because anyone can look hot. Instead, focus on healthy eating to support a strong body, glowing skin, and bountiful energy. Fill your plate with fresh produce, lean protein, and complex carbohydrates. However, avoid processed foods and added sugars. Don't overly restrict your calories because you need proper nutrition to look and feel healthy. Exercise for 30 minutes a day for good health. Being active helps you maintain a healthy body, relieves stress, and boosts your energy. For best results, get at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise 5-7 days a week. Choose an exercise that you love so it's easier to do. For instance, try the following: Play a recreational sport. Take a dance class. Go hiking or walk around the block. Swim. Jog with a friend or your dog. Sleep 7-9 hours nightly so you’re well-rested. Being well-rested helps your skin look bright and healthy, and it helps you feel more energetic. To sleep better, keep your bedroom comfortable and only use your bed for sleeping. Additionally, wind down for bed by turning off screens 1-2 hours before bed and doing a relaxing activity, such as reading or taking a bath. Try to wake up and go to bed at the same time every day so you have a regular sleep schedule. This makes it easier to fall asleep and wake up. Care for your skin so it looks healthy. Great skin makes it easier to look hot, so follow a skin care routine. Wash your face twice a day with a mild cleanser, then apply a moisturizer. Similarly, moisturize your body daily to keep your skin soft and supple. If you like, shave your underarms and legs regularly to remove the hair. However, don't feel like you have to do this to be hot. Keep your nails manicured and toenails pedicured. Caring for your nails helps you have attractive hands and feet. To do this, trim and file your nails every 1-2 weeks so they look neat. If you like, you can also paint your nails. You don't need painted nails to be hot. However, neat nails will look more attractive, so it's a good idea to trim and file them. Take good care of your teeth. Good oral hygiene is also very important for creating your hot girl look. Brush your teeth in the morning and evening and floss every day. Additionally, see your dentist for annual check-ups so your teeth stay in great shape. If your teeth are discolored, over-the-counter whitening strips and toothpaste can help. However, check with your dentist before you use whitening products, as they aren't right for everyone. Additionally, talk to your dentist if you're interested in trying a professional teeth whitening procedure. If your teeth are crooked, braces or invisible teeth straighteners can help. However, don't feel like you can't be hot if you can't afford these procedures. Imperfect teeth can be a quirk that makes you look different. Stop worrying what other people think about you. The only person's opinion that matters is your own. Don't let other people decide how you live or how you feel about yourself. Focus on creating a life you love and things will fall into place for you. Try not to compare yourself to others because you'll always come up short. That's because it's common to compare your real life to everyone else's highlight reel, which is unfair to you. Instead, only compare yourself to past you. Pursue your goals and interests so you have a full life. Being a well-rounded person with lots going on in your life makes you seem more interesting and desirable. Figure out what makes you happy and what you want most in your life, then create a plan that can make that happen. Make it clear to the people that you meet that you're goal-driven and plan to get what you want. For instance, let's say your goal is to become a nurse and you also like dogs. You might volunteer at a local hospital and help raise money for the local animal shelter to pursue these goals. Focus on your strengths rather than your weaknesses. Everyone has weaknesses, so don't let yours get you down. Instead, figure out what your strengths are so you can show them off. Once you know your strengths, try to build them further so you can be a more accomplished person. This can help you have the confidence that will make people see you as hot. For example, you might have book smarts, be good at helping others, and be a talented writer. Celebrate these strengths and don't be afraid to show them off. Make people pursue you instead of chasing them. When you try to make someone like you, it makes you seem less confident and attractive. However, getting someone to pursue you makes you seem more desirable. If you like someone, flirt with them so they know you're interested. However, make them meet you halfway before you consider going out with them. For instance, let's say there's a guy you like. You might flirt with him and give him your number, but wait for him to text before you contact him. | Create a wardrobe that makes you feel hot. Show off a little skin, but keep something to the imagination. Wear heels to create a sexy silhouette. Highlight your best features so people focus on them. Use makeup to bring out your best features. Get a hairstyle that flatters your face. Maintain good posture so your body looks its best. Smile and laugh a lot to draw people to you. Make eye contact with people when you encounter them. Adopt a positive attitude so people enjoy being around you. Interact with people when you’re in social situations. Share your passion with other people. Be a little mysterious instead of sharing everything about yourself. Show off your smarts. Eat a nutritious diet for healthy skin and more energy. Exercise for 30 minutes a day for good health. Sleep 7-9 hours nightly so you’re well-rested. Care for your skin so it looks healthy. Keep your nails manicured and toenails pedicured. Take good care of your teeth. Stop worrying what other people think about you. Pursue your goals and interests so you have a full life. Focus on your strengths rather than your weaknesses. Make people pursue you instead of chasing them. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Whiten-Teeth-With-Baking-Soda | How to Whiten Teeth With Baking Soda | To whiten your teeth with baking soda, start by mixing equal parts baking soda and water. Then, brush your teeth with the baking soda paste for 2 minutes using gentle circular motions. When you're finished, rinse your mouth out with water. Repeat the process every other day for up to 2 weeks for the biggest impact on your smile. | Mix together baking soda and water. In a small cup, mix ¼ to ½ teaspoon (1½ to 3g) of baking soda with enough water to form a paste. A paste of about 2 parts of baking soda mixed with 1 part of water is easier to apply and more effective than baking soda alone. Avoid making a paste with baking soda and lemon, strawberry, or any other fruit juice. Fruit juices are acidic and could erode your teeth's enamel, especially when combined with baking soda or other abrasive products. Brush your teeth with the baking soda paste for 1 to 2 minutes. Dip a soft-bristled brush into the paste, and gently scrub your teeth using circular motions. Brush all around instead of scrubbing 1 spot for the entire 2 minutes. Be sure not to brush hard or you might hurt your teeth. Alternatively, use your fingertips to gently rub your teeth with the paste. Rub in soft circles, and don't use too much force. If you have receding gums, avoid brushing the base of your teeth and around your gum line with baking soda. The substance that covers your teeth below the gums is softer than enamel and prone to damage. Rinse out your mouth when you’re finished brushing. After brushing for 2 minutes, spit out the baking soda and rinse your mouth with water or mouthwash. Give your toothbrush a thorough rinse as well. Note that you shouldn't rinse after brushing with a fluoride toothpaste, as rinsing reduces fluoride's beneficial effects. For this reason, don't brush or rinse with baking soda right after brushing with regular toothpaste. If you really need to rinse away visible residue after using regular toothpaste, use as little water as possible. Repeat every other day for up to 2 weeks. At most, brush your teeth with baking soda paste every other day for 1 to 2 weeks. Then cut back to doing it just once or twice a week. Since it's abrasive, using baking soda more frequently may damage your teeth. Keep in mind that brushing your teeth with baking soda should not replace brushing your teeth with regular toothpaste. Brushing twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste, flossing daily, and regular dental checkups are the best ways to keep your teeth healthy. Before brushing with baking soda, check with your dentist to see if your teeth are healthy enough for this method. Your teeth may be sensitive to abrasion, and baking soda may cause irreversible dental erosion. Mix 2 parts of baking soda with 1 part of 1% to 3% hydrogen peroxide. Hydrogen peroxide may whiten teeth, but you need to use it with caution. To try this method, mix 2 parts of baking soda with 1 part of 1% to 3% hydrogen peroxide to form a paste. Brush your teeth with the mixture for 1 to 2 minutes, then rinse with water. Make sure you use hydrogen peroxide with a concentration of 3% or less. Brush with hydrogen peroxide and baking soda once a week at most. Stop brushing and rinse your mouth with cool water if you feel a burning sensation. Don't use this method if you have receding or sensitive gums, as hydrogen peroxide can cause irritation and damage exposed roots. Brush your teeth with a mix of baking soda and fluoride toothpaste. Squeeze your regular toothpaste onto your toothbrush, then sprinkle a pinch of baking soda on top. Brush your teeth as you normally would for 2 minutes with soft, circular motions. Then spit and, if you need to rinse away white residue, swish your mouth with a little water. As with a baking soda and water paste, brush with baking soda and toothpaste in moderation. Try it every other day for 1 to 2 weeks at first, then brush with baking soda once or twice a week at most. You can also purchase a toothpaste that already contains baking soda. In the United States, look for a product that carries the ADA (American Dental Association) Seal of Acceptance, and use it as directed. If you have sensitive teeth or dental erosion, avoid using toothpastes that contain baking soda or are branded as whitening products. Gargle with a baking soda and water rinse. Combine 1 teaspoon (6 g) of baking soda and 1 cup (240 mL) of water in a glass, then stir the mixture until the baking soda is evenly distributed. Take a sip, gargle for about 30 seconds, then spit out the mixture. Repeat the steps until you've finished the entire glass. The baking soda rinse won't erode your teeth, so it's safe to gargle with it daily. Gargling with a baking soda rinse whitens your teeth indirectly. Baking soda neutralizes acids, so it helps fight dental erosion caused by acidic foods and beverages. It can also help fight bacteria that cause decay and promote good bacteria that create a protective layer on your teeth. | Mix together baking soda and water. Brush your teeth with the baking soda paste for 1 to 2 minutes. Rinse out your mouth when you’re finished brushing. Repeat every other day for up to 2 weeks. Mix 2 parts of baking soda with 1 part of 1% to 3% hydrogen peroxide. Brush your teeth with a mix of baking soda and fluoride toothpaste. Gargle with a baking soda and water rinse. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-an-Academic | How to Become an Academic | To become an academic, start by completing your bachelor's degree in the field of study you want to pursue. Next, earn a master's degree and a PhD in your field of interest, since having all 3 degrees is standard for an academic scholar. Then, conduct research on an aspect of the field that you're interested in and that hasn't been studied closely before. Finally, publish your findings in journals and present your research at conferences. As you progress, aim to publish with the most prestigious academic presses and peer-reviewed journals in your field! | Learn about being an academic. Someone who pursues an academic career often works at a university or research institution in a specific discipline such as biology, history, or political science. During their graduate program, academics generally spend 1 or more years working as teaching assistants at a college or university. These are paid positions that feature tuition and fee waivers in addition to a paycheck for teaching 1-2 classes each academic term. You'll also need to conduct research and complete projects, such as a dissertation. Once you graduate, you'll need to competitively seek employment at a college or university, where you'll continue your research, writing, and teaching. If you like studying, writing essays, and teaching, academia might be a good choice for you. Investigate your job options. The U.S. Department of Labor analyzes job opportunities in 800 fields in its Occupational Outlook Handbook that is published annually and on its website bls.gov. Enter 'Occupational Outlook Handbook' in the bls.gov search window. It's increasingly difficult to find permanent or tenured jobs in academia. Researching, writing, taking part in academic conferences, and teaching something about which you are passionate can be incredibly rewarding and make academia seem less like a “job.” Talk to an academic. If you think you want to be an academic, consider meeting someone who is already one in the your desired field or discipline. They can tell you about the realities of academia, answer questions you have, give you tips for getting started, and guide your goals for the future. In the U.S., college and university professors have regular office hours each week as part of their employment. Members of the public can schedule a half hour to an hour appointment to ask questions about entering the profession. If a senior professor is too busy to have time, usually a younger professor will be suggested who is up to date on the most recent trends concerning entering the field and transitioning from graduate school to employment. Inquire how they got into their academic career. Ask about their education and/ or any professional or practical experience they had. Think about your personality. An academic career can be very demanding. You'll need to constantly be learning about new concepts and sharing that knowledge in a variety of modes, such as journal articles, books, and the classes you teach. You'll also need to compete for positions. In addition, working with a university faculty can require navigating delicate personal and political situations. You will need to set aside your own emotions and biases to provide equal treatment of all. You might want to ask yourself some of the following questions: How deep is my commitment to this field? Am I willing to potentially move often and continuously pursue jobs? Am I willing to start part-time as an adjunct faculty member? Am I able to work in an unstructured environment and self-start projects? Can I create and pursue my own research topics? Am I willing to participate on a campus committee that has meetings? Do I want to be a mentor to students? Can I handle the competitive nature of this career? Consider your career and salary goals. Academics often choose their career because it's their passion. However, the jobs you get may depend on what's available at the time. Additionally, salary can vary wildly, as high paying positions are limited. People with the same credentials can make vastly different salaries. Ask yourself if you'd like to teach and work with students. Consider if you're only interested in working with other academics, such as in a think tank. Look up salary amounts in your area. Consider if you can adapt your lifestyle if necessary. For example, a full professor will make considerably more than an adjunct professor or lecturer. The amount can also differ according to your experience and job location. Think about the other skills you can use to add to your income, and if you'd be willing to take on other work. For example, community college, college, and university faculty in the U.S. sometimes make a significant portion of their income through authoring or co-authoring textbooks used in their fields. Finish your bachelor's degree. You have to finish your bachelor's degree to pursue a PhD, which is generally the education requirement for a career in academia. Take classes in the discipline that you'd like to be an academic to give yourself an advantage of getting into graduate programs and make attaining your PhD somewhat easier. Save all of your undergraduate and graduate essays, since you may need them when you apply to graduate programs to show as an example of your work. Additionally, they may inspire your future research. Consider majoring in your preferred academic discipline or one closely related to it. For example, if you want to be an animal behaviorist, you could major in ethology or comparative psychology. If you want to be a historian, you could consider anthropology or philosophy. Take courses that complement your preferred field of specialization. For example, if want to be an archaeologist, consider classes in history and anthropology. Substitute teach to gain experience, if you aren't sure about academia. With a bachelor's degree in the U.S., you can substitute teach almost anywhere, as long as you have a clean background check. This will allow you to try out the teaching profession for a year with pay to see if you like being in front of the classroom. This also allows you to apply for a graduate teaching assistantship with teaching experience. If you already know you want to be an academic, you may want to immediately enter an advanced degree program. However, substituting still provides valuable experience to help further your prospects. Obtain an advanced degree. After your bachelor's degree, the next step will be your master's degree. Depending on the field, you may choose a Master of Arts, Master of Science, or Master of Fine Arts. Most academic positions require a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) once you've finished your bachelor's degree or master's degree. Having the right degrees ensures to you—and potential employers-- that you have mastered the required information to pursue a career in academia. For example, in the U.S., a newly hired assistant professor is frequently assigned to teach courses in the dissertation field, since the new PhD has been vetted already in that topic by a faculty committee in his or her graduate school program. Pursue your PhD. Since most academics teach and do research at universities or colleges, you will need a graduate degree. Most institutions require a PhD, though some institutions and disciplines may only require an MA or MS, or even professional experience. Some programs allow you to earn both your MA and PhD at the same time, though you'll need to complete the coursework for your MA before pursuing the PhD coursework. Learn about different programs in your specific discipline. Different universities have different disciplines and fields in which they specialize. For example, if you want to be an animal behaviorist, you might want to find specific programs in this field or related fields. Likewise, if you want to be a historian of Europe, you'd want to figure out the best programs for that instead of for American history. Make sure your degree granting institution is accredited, which assures that the quality of your education meets acceptable levels. The US Department of Educations provides a list of accredited universities. Conduct research. Most academics conduct original research and then publish it. You'll prepare a dissertation as part of your graduate program. Once you start working as an academic, you'll write articles, books, and other media. Research or creative production is often the bread and butter of any academic. Be aware that the point of “scholarship” is to expand current knowledge of your particular field. Make sure your research is original and that no one has used your specific topic and/or method of analysis before you begin. This will require that you master the scholarly literature related to your field. Choose an area that hasn't been explored in depth. Make sure to get any permissions or clearances you need to do your research, especially if it requires using human or animal subjects. Take copious and detailed notes, as this will help you write up and publish your research. You should maintain digital files with notes that include your citations. Then, when you are faced with seminar papers, theses, and dissertation writing, you can cull through these digital files rather than having to start from scratch. Publish your findings when they're ready. One of the primary components of being an academic is publishing your research findings. In fact, sometimes one will hear the phrase “publish or perish.” Start by submitting to journals and conferences. Aim to publish your research at a rate commensurate to your field. Your thesis is a good starting topic for your dissertation, and your dissertation is a good starting presentation for your first book. Wait to publish your thesis or dissertation until after it's been accepted. A master's thesis and a PhD dissertation are commonly only acceptable in the U.S. if the material has not already been published--even by the same author. Begin publishing your research as soon as it is ready, including if you are still in graduate school unless your department or your graduate school only accepts unpublished materials for the thesis/dissertation. Ask colleagues and friends about what general expectations for publication within your field are. If you work at a university, there may be guidelines on publication expectations. Aim to publish with the most prestigious academic presses or peer-reviewed journals in your field as possible. This can help you gain exposure and may help complete your portfolio for tenure. Note that print and online journals have 'author guidelines' that you need to check concerning how the specific journal requires submissions to be made. Teach courses in your field. Many academics who work at universities conduct research and teach students. Getting teaching experience in your specific and possibly related fields can not only make you attractive to potential employers, but also help you master your field and round out your curriculum vitae. Cultural centers, retirement communities, cruise lines, recreational centers and other unexpected places will frequently host academic speakers who are still building a tenure portfolio. Some pay; some accept volunteers only. Keep a copy of each publicity material issued, since you will want to include those in a section on 'Public Presentations in your tenure portfolio. See if your university requires being a teaching assistant (TA) as a part of your graduate studies. If your campus has a shortage of teaching assistants, consider volunteering to be a TA in a different field than yours to show your ability to be flexible as an academic. For example, if you work on American history, offer to TA a course on African history. This may help you make connections with your own work as well. Ask if you can teach independent or online courses in your field. Volunteer to teach courses that may be less popular. The more diversified your teaching experience is, the more attractive you may be to potential employers. Junior faculty are frequently hired to teach the courses senior faculty do not wish to teach. Then over the years, the junior faculty gain the opportunities to list their favorite topics in the curriculum. This develops as colleagues become acquainted and gain trust. Obtain practical experience. Depending on your chosen discipline, consider getting an internship or job that will enhance your coursework with practical experience. Ask if your university or college can help you find internships or jobs that complement your studies. Be aware that many graduate programs and employers, particularly in health fields or the sciences, may require internships or practical experience to graduate or start a job. Graduate students in the arts most often have the privilege of reserving campus performance space for free. If your campus has an intellectual property attorney, get a copy of a release for performers to sign that allows you to digitize excepts of the performance for your tenure portfolio--and make certain you save copies of the program/publicity materials to document your efforts. If the campus newspaper or community newspaper publishes review, you should retain a copy of that, also, to document your success Consider doing an internship complementary to your field. For example, it may be difficult to find an internship as a historian or archaeologist. But you could intern in a library or archives, which would give you experience in conducting research. Explore what is available to you in 'ethnography,' also. Get different types of experience to give you sense of what work you could do and what kind of work suits you best. For example, you may want to work for your university astronomy lab during the school year and pursue an internship at a local planetarium in the summer. Many internships and residencies, like universities, are also accredited. The US Department of Education also offers a list of these programs. Apply for funding. Whether you are a student or have finished your graduate education, apply for grants and fellowships from your university and outside institutions. Winning grants and fellowships can not only help pay for your research but also attract other organizations to fund you. Look for grant and fellowship opportunities at different universities and colleges, research institutions, government agencies, or independent groups. See Chronicle of Philanthropy and its annual register of grants offered. For example, if you are a physicist, see what funding opportunities your university, the National Science Foundation, and the European Physical Society offer. You want to compete for the most prestigious grants as well as smaller ones. Be aware that some institutions will require that you be a member in order to apply for funding. Stay on top of current research. Inform yourself about current research/performance in your discipline and specific field, as well as any related fields. You can do this by attending conferences and seminars, reading journals, and networking with colleagues. This knowledge may help you more effectively do your job and can also make you attractive to potential employers. Read journals from your specifics areas of expertise and those related to it. For example, if you work on the history of cultural heritage, you might want to read publications by historians, anthropologists, ethnographers, and archaeologists. Legal journals may also be of use. Subscribe to journals related to your specific fields, read online journals, and familiarize yourself with library collections of periodicals in your field. This can help you stay most current on research through articles and reviews. You may also find job listings in these journals. Go to conferences for your specific discipline and field. For example, if you are a quantum physicist, you could attend the American Physical Society's annual conference as well as that of International Quantum Structure Association. Some of these professional associations also offer academic placement services. For example, College Composition and Communications assists graduate students in obtaining placement in non-fiction writing and in speech making. Be aware that staying on top of current research can also help your teaching profile. As an academic, you will be expected to have things to say, and keeping up with research and performance in your discipline gives you things to talk about person to person with colleagues and in the classroom when you are fielding student questions. Start your job search early. Ideally, you will learn about shortage areas in your field by reading job postings. Being aware of shortages allows you to add a few graduate courses in those shortage areas, so that you can provide 'coverage' for those topics when you are hired into a faculty. If you wait until you finish your PhD to find a job, your skills might not match the demand, and you may have trouble securing even a term position as an adjunct. Reference the job posting when you apply. Always tie something in your background to the specific requirements listed in the job posting. Make your application relevant to the needs of the institution to which you are applying. Start researching universities, agencies, institutions, and organizations with which you may be interested in working when you enter graduate school. Discuss with your graduate faculty what research problems your field is trying to solve, and figure out whether any of those research problems interests you for your thesis/dissertation. Cross check that with job offerings. Ask your doctoral advisor, professors, colleagues, friends, and especially the student placement office for advice on where, when, and how to apply for academic jobs. Submit job applications. Most academics work at places like universities and research institutions. Because competition for academic positions in many fields is strong, apply to as many positions as you can in your field or related fields. If you have met with any faculty from the posting department, mention that you are applying because of the good impression the department made at the specific conference, how, and why. Prepare yourself for rejection. Competition for academic jobs can be very high, and it's very likely you'll have several rejections. Remember that the decision is not personal, but that you're likely in a pool of other very qualified candidates. Search the websites or publications of professional academic associations every day. New jobs may appear daily. Academic positions are generally posted 6 to 9 months before the position is to begin. Check online listserves specific to your discipline or field. Talk to your advisor, professors, or colleagues if they're aware of any job openings. They will generally refer you to published sources that you then need to examine frequently. Once a listing produces hundreds of responses, the posting will generally be taken down, so if you are not watching for postings, you probably will miss some. Submit material requested by the position ad. This often includes a cover letter, CV, writing samples, and proof of ability to obtain funding, if the department position is not funded by the school. Consider professional positions. You may prefer a professional position with a business rather than a job at a university or may not have had any luck on the academic market. There are a multitude of options for academics at places like think tanks, government agencies, or museums. Remember that you can also try substitute teaching while you seek other positions. Look for professional positions in academic publications, newspapers, professional recruiting sites, or by asking headhunters. Submit letters of interest and ask about career opportunities at places that interest you. See if you can set up an informational interview. Network with other academics. Meeting and talking with academic colleagues or professionals from your field or related disciplines can expand your ability to find a job as well as increase your knowledge. Go to conferences, establish a local seminar, and join professional organizations to network with fellow academics. Join organizations in your specific discipline and field. For example, if you are a historian of modern Germany you might want to join the American Historical Association and the German Studies Association. Go to conferences. Make sure to attend panels related to your work and any social events offered. These can help you meet new people who share your interests. Academics want to be known in their fields. Being an academic is a social role in addition to a continuing study function Set up regular meetings or seminar meetings for colleagues in your field and discipline or related disciplines in your local area. Keep the publicity materials for inclusion in your tenure portfolio. These portfolios can be inches thick or feet thick depending on the academic discipline. Circulate feedback forms and retain the most positive ones for inclusion in your tenure portfolio. | Learn about being an academic. Talk to an academic. Think about your personality. Consider your career and salary goals. Finish your bachelor's degree. Substitute teach to gain experience, if you aren't sure about academia. Obtain an advanced degree. Pursue your PhD. Conduct research. Publish your findings when they're ready. Teach courses in your field. Obtain practical experience. Apply for funding. Stay on top of current research. Start your job search early. Reference the job posting when you apply. Submit job applications. Consider professional positions. Network with other academics. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Win-at-Capture-the-Flag-at-Night | How to Win at Capture the Flag at Night | To win at Capture the Flag at night, try hiding at the border right when the game starts. Then, once you have an opening, sneak across the border toward the other team's flag. Alternatively, you can run toward the flag in a group of 4-5 players so it's harder for the other team to tag and stop all of you. Either way, when you reach the flag, wrap it around your arm so you're less likely to draw attention to yourself when you run away. | Get hold of either camouflage or a dark outfit. Dark blues, grays, browns and greens tend to be less visible at night than actual black because of the silhouettes. Camouflage should match the local environment. The outfit must be comfortable and versatile. Waterproof, washable, durable clothing is desirable. Also, clothing should not be loud-this means no loose clothing that rubs together, things that jingle, or stiff clothing/shoes that creak. Sweats are best. Wear your outfit when playing. Build up speed and endurance before the game. Train by running, playing sports or doing any other exercise that helps to make you a fast runner with plenty of stamina. Head to the border when the game starts. Move carefully to the border, crawling or staying low at all times. Once there, wait for 20-30 seconds, checking for defenders. Lunge across the border in a low stance. Dive or step into the nearest brush or other cover (depending on the amount of time you think you have). Call for a distraction when you reach the enemy flag. Use a two way radio call for a distraction to happen 100–200 yards (91.4–182.9 m) opposite and behind your location. If you do not have a radio, simply wait for someone to do something stupid. Grab the flag and wrap it around your arm so less of you seems to attract attention
Call for a party of 4-5 people once you reach the border to surround you and run very fast to the border. The people around you can block tags from the other team, giving you some cover. If no one else is available, sneak out the way you came in. This almost always works. Celebrate like crazy. Be sure to rub it in. Now you have bragging rights! | Get hold of either camouflage or a dark outfit. Build up speed and endurance before the game. Head to the border when the game starts. Call for a distraction when you reach the enemy flag. Grab the flag and wrap it around your arm so less of you seems to attract attention
Call for a party of 4-5 people once you reach the border to surround you and run very fast to the border. Celebrate like crazy. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Survive-the-First-Day-of-High-School-Without-Being-Nervous-(for-Girls) | How to Survive the First Day of High School Without Being Nervous (for Girls) | If you're nervous about your first day of high school, pack your backpack and pick your outfit ahead of time so you don't feel rushed or stressed in the morning. Be sure to choose an outfit that lets you feel confident enough to make new friends. Alternatively, if your school has uniforms, you can still stand out by focusing on your hair, makeup, and accessories. Remember, it's the first day of high school for everyone in your grade, and they're probably just as nervous as you are! | Write down anything that you have questions about regarding your school. Most high schools have orientation sessions the week before school starts that introduce new students to the school. Before you attend the orientation, you want to make sure that you know what you have questions about so you can ask them at your orientation if necessary. For instance, you could have questions about how long the break is between classes, or if you need to bring in your summer reading books on the first day. Attend orientation. Even if your high school is in the same building as your middle school was in, it's still incredibly valuable to go to the orientation so you have a better idea of what to expect the first day. Make sure that the orientation addresses all the questions you may have. If you still have questions when the orientation is over, you can talk to the teacher or councilor leading the orientation. If you don't want to ask in front of the group, you can talk to them separately. If your school does not hold an orientation, tell your parents that you have questions about the first day. They will help you to find a phone number or email address of someone in the school you can contact to get these questions answered. Talk to people during your orientation. If you are in the same school system as your middle school, you will already know a lot of your fellow classmates. Talk with friends, and try to talk to a couple people that you have met but don't know as well. Starting to expand your social circle will make high school a lot easier. If you are new to your school district, try to talk to at least a couple people. You can also try to figure out who else is new and talk to them! Ask your classmates what they did over the summer, and how they feel to be starting high school. Many of them are probably feeling just as nervous as you! Make sure you know where your classes and your locker are. You have probably already received a schedule that has your classes listed, along with the classrooms they're in. Make sure that either during the orientation or sometime in the week before school starts you look around the high school and figure out where your classes take place and where your locker is. You can even make notes on your schedule next to your classes that say things like, “Room 113, first floor across from the wood shop.” Talk to someone who has already gone through high school. Talk to someone who already went through their freshman year at your school. This could be an older sibling, a friend's sibling, or someone like the child of a family friend. If you can, try and talk to a girl, because it will relate more to your experience of being a girl starting high school. Ask them any questions that you have. You can also ask them what the best and worst part of starting high school was for them, and how high school was different than what they expected before they started. Ask them what advice they have for someone starting at your high school. Their advice can be valuable since they've already gone through freshman year! Their answers can give you valuable information about what to expect, which is a huge part of feeling less nervous on the first day. Talk to your friends about your worries about the first day. Your friends are probably feeling nervous too! Just talking about your anxieties about the first day can relieve some of the stress of starting high school. If you and your friends are all feeling nervous, you can agree to be by each others' side and help each other through the first day. You can try to meet up with your friends, or you can call them on the phone to talk and make plans. If you don't know anyone that is going to your high school, talk with your parents or your friends. Even though they are not starting high school with you, they probably know exactly what you are feeling and can offer advice about the first day. Coordinate plans with your friends. If you are attending high school in the same school district as your middle school, you will already have some friends. Talk with your friends before the first day and make plans to eat together. Also find out if your friends are in your classes. It will give you peace of mind to know that you have people in your classes that you can sit with and socialize with. If you are starting a new school, you may not have friends that you can make plans with in advance. Know that there are going to be other new girls in your grade, and that they probably will be looking for people to sit with too! Plan your outfit. Especially for girls, planning that first day of school outfit can be a big part of preparing. You will want to pick out an outfit that is stylish, but also feels like you. Just because you are starting high school doesn't mean that you have to dress differently or older than you usually do. Stick to a classic outfit over the latest trend. You may not know how people dress at your school, so it's better to play it safe. Try not to underdress or overdress. You shouldn't wear sweats and a T-shirt on the first day. You also shouldn't wear heels and a cocktail dress. Make sure that your outfit is a happy medium of the two, so that you look put-together but not like you are going to a night club. If your school has a uniform, focus on your hair and makeup and your accessories. This is how you can individualize your look. Pack your backpack. The night before you start your first day of high school, put all of your new supplies in your backpack. If you are bring your own lunch as opposed to buying it, consider preparing it the night before and putting it in the fridge overnight. This will give you time to perfect your look in the morning and make you less stressed out about getting to school on time. Go to bed early. You want to be rested on your first day. Being tired could make you even more anxious. Try to get to bed a little early, just in case you have trouble sleeping. Plan to sleep for at least eight hours on the night before the first day of high school. Have a good breakfast. Make sure that you have a healthy and hearty breakfast before your first day. Even if you are feeling nervous and aren't very hungry, getting something in your system will make you feel a little better and will give you the energy you need. Try eating foods like scrambled eggs or oatmeal. They will give you the lasting energy that you will need for your first day! Give yourself enough time to get to school. Whether you are catching the bus or getting a ride, make sure that you leave a little early and give yourself enough time. Nothing is more disorienting than being late, and you don't want to add to your anxiety about the first day. You can try setting your alarm 10 or 15 minutes before you had planned if you are worried that you won't have enough time. Find your locker. Your locker is like your home base. If you even feel overwhelmed or need a break, it can be nice to have a space that's your own. Once you get to school, drop off your books at your locker and make sure that you have everything that you need for your day. Try to sit by your friends in classes and at lunch. Hopefully you and your friends have made plans to stick by each other on the first day. Find a way to touch base with them when you get to school, either by text or in person. Having people to sit with can make you feel a lot less nervous. If you don't know anyone at your new school, try to figure out who the new students are and sit with them. They will be as eager to make new friends as you are! You can also sit next to anyone who seems friendly and nice. In every school there are people who go out of their way to talk to the new students and make them feel welcome. Try to strike up a few conversations with classmates you don't know. It's great if you already have friends, but creating other ties with people you will be seeing every day will make you feel a lot more comfortable about being in spaces like your classes, or in the cafeteria. Ask your classmates what they did over the summer. This is a great way to break the ice! Compliment other girls on their clothing. This is also a great way to start a conversation with other girls, and they will appreciate the compliment. If talking to other classmates would make you too nervous, set a goal for yourself to talk to at least one new person. Even making one small connection can make you feel more confident. Sign up for activities or clubs. Joining activities, clubs or teams that you're interested in will help you feel that you have a place at your school. They are also great opportunities to meet new people and develop your interests. Give yourself time to breathe. The first day of school is always overwhelming! If you find yourself becoming overwhelmed or anxious, take a bathroom break or break during lunch to be by yourself. High schools are usually crowded, but there should be an empty classroom or two that you can go in to regroup. After the summer, being around so many people can add to your anxiety about the first day. This is why it's beneficial to know that you can always take a break if you need it. Don't take too long of a break. Just take a few minutes to breathe and collect your thoughts, about as long as a normal bathroom break would be. Remember that everyone is probably just as nervous as you. The first day of high school is probably one of the most stressful days of any young adult's life. Don't judge yourself for being nervous, because chances are that everyone around you probably feels the same way. Fake it till you make it. Even if you are feeling incredibly nervous, put on a smile and a brave face. Smiling can actually make you feel happier and more relaxed. The confidence that you are putting out there may be an act in the beginning, but you may start to actually feel more relaxed and in control. Try to be the kind of person you'd want to meet on your first day. Try to focus less on your own feelings and more on getting familiar with your new school and meeting and talking to your fellow classmates. | Write down anything that you have questions about regarding your school. Attend orientation. Talk to people during your orientation. Make sure you know where your classes and your locker are. Talk to someone who has already gone through high school. Talk to your friends about your worries about the first day. Coordinate plans with your friends. Plan your outfit. Pack your backpack. Go to bed early. Have a good breakfast. Give yourself enough time to get to school. Find your locker. Try to sit by your friends in classes and at lunch. Try to strike up a few conversations with classmates you don't know. Sign up for activities or clubs. Give yourself time to breathe. Remember that everyone is probably just as nervous as you. Fake it till you make it. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Jowls | How to Get Rid of Jowls | To get rid of jowls, try facial exercises to tighten your muscles. For example, fake smile while jutting your jaw forward and touching the center of your lips together. When working on these exercises, start with 15 repetitions each once a day. In addition to exercises, if you have mild to moderate jowls, discuss techniques like radiofrequency, which tightens the skin in a noninvasive way, with your doctor. | Make a fake smile. This exercise involves making a fake smile and then jutting your jaw forward so that you can touch the center of your lips together. You should try to use the muscles in the back of your jaw to push your jaw forward. Your lips should only touch in the center. On your last repetition, do the exercise, and hold the position for 20 seconds before releasing. When doing these exercises to get rid of jowls, do your best to focus all of your attention on the muscles around your mouth and around your jaw. You can place each index finger on each side of your mouth to help yourself isolate the muscles in your jaw. Make a squished smile. Another way to work on the muscles around the jaw line involves making a close-lipped smile and then pushing the jaw forward to contract the muscles underneath the lips and along the jaw line. You can be sure you're doing this correctly by gently placing 2 or 3 fingers from each hand on either side of your mouth, just underneath and to the sides of your lips. With this exercise, it is a good idea to look in the mirror while you do it. This is because you want to try and keep the rest of your muscles in your face as relaxed as possible while you do the exercise. As with the first exercise, when you are on your final repetition, you should hold the exercise for 20 seconds. Change up the exercises. When you are just starting out, you can pick one exercise to focus on for 2 or 3 weeks, and then switch to a different exercise. This will help target the muscles differently in order to help you get rid of your jowls. You can start with just doing 15 repetitions of each exercise once per day, and move up to doing more repetitions as you feel yourself progressing. Don't look for scientific evidence supporting facial exercises. At present, there are little to no scientific studies examining the effectiveness of facial exercise as a means of reducing saggy skin. However, just because these studies don't exist does not mean it won't be useful for you. It may work, but it will likely take time and dedication to doing the exercises consistently. Don't expect an overnight fix with this method. Understand what it is. Radiofrequency treatment is a non-surgical method for tightening the skin. It is best for people who have mild or moderate sagging of the skin, and may not be as effective if you have deep lines and lots of sagging. This method of treatment works well on people of all skin colors and tones. Generally, this method is suitable for people between the ages of 40-50. After the age of 60, you may experience some results with this method, but you may not get the results that you would get from a surgical procedure, such as a facelift. Learn about the costs. In most cases, this is not a procedure that will be covered by insurance. Ask your treatment professional about installment plans if you cannot afford to pay the full amount all at once. Prices will vary based on the specific radiofrequency machine used. Some of the newer radiofrequency machines need only one session to achieve great results, but these prices will be much higher. Businesses using an older machine are still effective, and may cost less; however, you will need to go for several sessions to get the results you hope for. Regardless of the machine used, this method does not pose a permanent solution to the problem. You will have to go for follow-up sessions every 3 to 6 months to maintain your tightened skin. Prepare for the procedure. Before you undergo the procedure, you will want to avoid irritating your skin as much as possible. For example, you will especially want to avoid getting a sunburn as this will make the procedure more painful than it needs to be. In some cases, your skin care professional may ask you to reschedule your treatment if you have a sunburn or otherwise irritated skin on your face. You may experience a bit of redness after the treatment is complete, but this is normal. Generally, you should be able to resume your normal activities right away. Some professionals may recommend soothing gels or creams that you will apply to your skin. If you do experience discomfort after the procedure, you can apply a cold compress to the skin or mist your skin with cool water to help soothe it. Understand the risks. When receiving the treatment from a trained professional, this method is quite safe. However, it can be somewhat uncomfortable for some people because heat is being applied directly to the skin. If you are worried about the pain, be sure to ask about any pain medication you can take, or whether or not they will apply a cream to your skin that will help numb the skin some. Some people experience swelling, bumps, and/or blisters around the treatment area. If you experience these symptoms, it may be a good idea to give your practitioner a call, but it is generally nothing to worry about. The most serious potential complication can occur if the professional applying the treatment heats an area of the skin too much. This can cause what is called a “depression,” which is a sunken area of the skin. Be sure to look into your treatment professional's credentials before undergoing this treatment. Understand the cost. As of 2014, the average cost of a neck lift in the United States was around $4,300. However, the price can vary significantly. While this procedure is expensive, this is because it is a surgery that should be done by a board certified plastic surgeon. Unless you can demonstrate to your insurance company that you need a neck lift for a medical reason, it likely will not be covered. Learn about the surgery. A neck lift is not a minor surgery. You will be sedated, and the surgery will generally last two to three hours. Excess skin will be removed around the jaw area, and the surgeon may also alter the muscles to give you the appearance you want. If you have medical issues such as diabetes, alcoholism, heart disease, high blood pressure, or depression, you may not be a good candidate for cosmetic surgery. Additionally, smokers are sometimes not good candidates for cosmetic surgery. Prepare for surgery. As this is a major surgery, you will need to undergo a thorough medical examination. You may have to stop taking certain medications, and if you smoke, you will need to quit. Your doctor will advise you on the risks to be aware of, as well as how to take care of yourself during recovery time. Before the surgery, you should avoid taking aspirin or other anti-inflammatory drugs because they can cause excess bleeding. Be sure to arrange transportation home from the surgery. As you will undergo general anesthesia, it will not be a good idea to try and drive yourself. Be aware of the recovery time. As this is an invasive surgery, you will need time to recover. You will likely be asked to refrain from exercising for at least three weeks. During recovery, you may experience discomfort around your jaw. For example, you might experience swelling and bruising, a pulling sensation, tingling, or even burning. As with all surgeries, infection is a risk. As you are recovering, keep an eye on your temperature. If you develop a fever, contact your doctor right away. Use makeup. Makeup applied correctly can be a good way to camouflage jowls. You can do this by applying foundation as you normally would. Apply highlighter to your jowls using a concealer brush, which will make them less obvious. Apply a lightweight concealer on top of the highlighting powder to remove some of the shimmer. Finish by applying the rest of your makeup as usual, and finish the look with a setting powder to keep it in place. If you want to, you can look for a foundation that is formulated to plump and hydrate, which will help lines look less obvious. Grow a beard. If you are a man, you can easily hide jowls by growing a beard. Beards are very trendy these days, so no one will find it strange if you decide to grow a big beard. If you do grow a beard, be sure to maintain it well to keep it looking neat and fresh. Wear clothing that will hide jowls. Wearing a turtleneck or a scarf is one way that you could hide your jowls if you feel self-conscious about them. In summer, look for light, flowing scarves so you don't get too hot. In winter, you can try warm turtlenecks and fluffier scarves if you live somewhere cold. | Make a fake smile. Make a squished smile. Change up the exercises. Don't look for scientific evidence supporting facial exercises. Understand what it is. Learn about the costs. Prepare for the procedure. Understand the risks. Understand the cost. Learn about the surgery. Prepare for surgery. Be aware of the recovery time. Use makeup. Grow a beard. Wear clothing that will hide jowls. |
https://www.wikihow.life/Clean-Faux-Fur | How to Clean Faux Fur | To clean faux fur, machine wash it by itself using a cold, delicate setting and mild laundry detergent. Alternatively, if your faux fur isn't machine washable, you can spot clean it using mild laundry detergent and cold or lukewarm water. Then, when you're finished cleaning it, rinse your faux fur with cold water to get rid of any soapy residue. Whether you machine or hand wash your faux fur, let it air dry afterward to prevent damaging the fibers. | Check the tag. Most items (including faux fur) will have tags on them with specific cleaning instructions. Whether you want to follow those guidelines explicitly or not is up to you, but they will include important tips for you to notice. The tag should tell you if you should wash it by itself, if the colors will run, or if you should only wash it with similarly colored items. The tag may include standardized symbols that indicate how the item should be cared for. Use the tag information to help you decide what to do next. Place the faux fur item in the washing machine. If it's part of a garment, turn it inside out. This will limit the wear on the fur. Place it gently in the machine without any other items. Use the right washing machine settings. Set the washing machine to use cold water and the delicate wash cycle. Turn the machine on and add a mild laundry detergent. Even though you are laundering by machine, consider using a gentle detergent designed for hand washing. Use the machine setting with the least amount of agitation in the spin. Put fabric softener in when the rinse cycle starts and rinse in cold water. Take out the faux fur item. Remove the item when the wash cycle stops. Shake it to fluff up the faux fur and help remove any additional excess water. You can try absorbing excess water by rolling the item in a thick towel. Pull the item into its original shape and dimensions. Do this carefully so you don't damage it. Use the right hand-washing materials. Wash the faux fur item in cold or lukewarm water. This will help the faux fur maintain its shape and texture. Use a mild laundry soap designed for hand-washing. Spot clean the item. Rather than submerging the entire garment in the water, use the spot-cleaning technique to clean only the places that need it. This will help your item last much longer and maintain its original texture. Use the mild detergent on the areas that need cleaning and gently rub the soap in with your fingers. You can also use the item itself to gently rub two sections that need cleaning together – just take care not to be too rough in your scrubbing so you don't damage the item. Rinse the item in cold water until all the suds are gone. Dry the faux fur item. First, shake out the item to fluff the faux fur and to get rid of any excess water on the surface. Then proceed to remove the additional excess water from the item by rolling it in a thick towel. Reshape the item, taking care not to damage it. Air-dry faux fur. Never use an electric dryer, even on a no-heat setting, because the friction caused by the faux fur item tumbling around in the dryer creates heat that destroys the fibers. Only air-dry faux fur items. Choose a site that's well ventilated for air drying. You may want to put it outside or add a fan to speed the drying process. Hang your item on a plastic hanger or lay it flat. Be sure all the excess water is removed before you hang the item. If you don't, the weight of the water will pull the item out of shape. Fluff up the faux fur item to help it dry. Brush and fluff up the faux fur using a pet care brush with widely spaced metal bristles – this kind of brush is called a slicker brush. Brush and fluff carefully so you don't damage the faux fur's backing fabric. Take your faux fur to the dry cleaner. Perhaps the safest option to wash and dry your faux fur items is to take them to the dry cleaner. Dry cleaners have more supplies and more knowledge about fabrics than you, so they will be able to clean your faux fur item more effectively. Make sure you choose a dry cleaner you trust so you know that they will handle your item with care. | Check the tag. Place the faux fur item in the washing machine. Use the right washing machine settings. Take out the faux fur item. Use the right hand-washing materials. Spot clean the item. Dry the faux fur item. Air-dry faux fur. Fluff up the faux fur item to help it dry. Take your faux fur to the dry cleaner. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Wrap-an-Achilles-Tendon | How to Wrap an Achilles Tendon | To wrap your Achilles tendon, you can use a compression bandage. Start above your ankle and wrap the bandage a few times to keep it in place. Then, work your way down to your toes, keeping mild tension to secure the bandage. When you get to your toes, work your way back up, covering any bits you missed. Secure the bandage with Velcro or a safety pin. You can also wrap your Achilles tendon using athletic tape. Start by wrapping a strip of tape just below the widest part of your calf and another just before your toes. Stick 2-3 strips of tape up the back of your calf to connect the 2 strips. Finally, cover the strips by your toes and upper ankle with more tape to secure them. | Choose between athletic wrapping, compression wrapping, or both. Since there are several ways to wrap an Achilles tendon, you need to decide between them based on your specific needs. In general, if you only have a minor injury to your Achilles, you are probably fine with just wrapping the Achilles in a compression bandage. If you have Achilles tendonitis or another painful condition, it may be necessary to use both athletic wrapping and a compression bandage. Both athletic tape and compression bandages can typically be found at pharmacies, big box stores, and from online retailers. Get someone to help you. It's a good idea to have someone to assist you with taping and wrapping your Achilles tendon because it would be very awkward to do it yourself. Without an assistant it's improbable that you would be able to get a wrap on satisfactorily because you will need to apply tape to the back of your calf and ankle areas. The person that assists you does not need to have any special skills or knowledge of your injury. You can talk them through the process of taping and wrapping your Achilles. Position the foot so the tendon is relaxed. You don't want the tendon to be extended when you wrap it. This means that your foot should be slightly flexed, with all the pressure off the tendon. Typically, it's easiest to get in this position by laying on a table or bed face down with your feet hanging off the end. In this position, your feet will naturally fall into the correct position. Cover the tendon in a protective pad. Get a non-stick bandage pad or a friction pad that doesn't have adhesive to cover the Achilles tendon area. Attach the pad with athletic tape or another bandage adhesive tape that you have available. This pad will help protect the area from friction when the Achilles moves under the athletic tape. Apply anchor points above and below the tendon. Wrap adhesive athletic tape around the leg just above or below the widest part of the calf. Then also wrap around the foot at the arch. Give each of these areas a couple wraps around so that the tape is secure and will be able to have further athletic tape applied to the top of them. It's important to make sure that these wraps do not restrict blood flow. Don't put any tension on them as you apply them but also make sure that they are not loose. Run strips of the adhesive athletic tape between the anchor points. Start at the back of the calf and run the strips down vertically so they go from the calf anchor point, over the protective pad, and down onto the anchor point on the arch of the foot. Apply 2 or 3 of these strips. Make sure to keep your foot in the same position, which is not putting pressure on the Achilles, as you are applying these strips. Wrap the anchor points again to secure the strips across the Achilles. Cover the contact points of the vertical strips so that they are held with tape on the inside and the outside. This will help ensure that they won't move even when the ankle is flexed. You can also wrap the middle of the strips around the ankle, so that the vertical strips sit flush with the leg. When these strips are secure, they should take the brunt of the pressure when you step and flex your foot, minimizing the pressure put on the Achilles. Start wrapping above the ankle. When applying compression to an injured Achilles tendon it's a good idea to start wrapping above the injured area. Place the end of the bandage against the skin and then wrap the bandage around it several times to keep it in place. You want the bandage to be medium tight. This means that it is tight enough to stay in place while not cutting off the circulation. Wrap from the toes to the top of the ankle. Work your way down from the ankle. When you get to the heel start wrapping around the arch of the foot and down to the toes. It may be that that very corner of your heel is still exposed after your first pass. Then wrap back up the foot and the ankle, making sure to cover areas that have not yet been covered. Keep a small amount of tension on the bandage as you go. This will keep your wraps neat but will not put too much restriction on your circulation. Secure the wrap. Once you have used up all of your bandage, it needs to be physically attached to itself. Many modern compression bandages come with Velcro on their ends, which will attach to the bandage when it is pressed on the surface. However, if yours doesn't have Velcro, you will need to use a safety pin to secure the end. the area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times each day. Ice Applying ice to an injured tendon can reduce inflammation and reduce swelling. Either use a store-bought ice pack, a frozen bag of veggies, or put some ice in a plastic bag. Wrap the ice pack in a thin towel to reduce the cold and apply it to the tendon. Keep the ice on for 15-20 minutes at most. Leave it off for at least an hour before reapplying it. Icing is most effective in the first 48 hours after an injury, but its effects will diminish after that. If you're hoping to alleviate swelling, use the ice as soon as possible after the injury occurs. Elevate the area. Elevating an injury to the Achilles will help blood flow, which helps an injury heal faster, and will let excess fluid drain away from the injury. Simply lay down and elevate the injured area so it is above your heart. Try to get into this position whenever you are going to be in a sitting position. For instance, if you plan on watching TV, lay down in this position while you do it. Some easy ways to do this are to prop the leg up with a pillow or balance it on the arm of a couch while you lay down flat on the couch. Make sure that you don't put direct pressure onto your Achilles tendon. Avoid putting pressure on the tendon. Giving your tendon time to recover will allow the tiny tears in it to heal. For the first few hours after an injury, do not put any pressure on the tendon at all. After that, only put light pressure on your toes and keep the tendon relaxed while you step. To avoid putting any pressure on the area, you can also choose to walk with crutches or to use a knee walker or knee scooter. If you continue to try and stretch the tendon, it will extend the amount of time it takes for the tendon to heal. Take anti-inflammatory medications if you are in pain. For most minor to moderate Achilles injuries over-the-counter painkillers will be enough to control the pain. Take the dose recommended on the packaging, being sure not to take more than is recommended in a 24 hour period. If an over-the-counter medication is not controlling the pain satisfactorily, talk to your doctor. They may prescribe you a stronger medication. | Choose between athletic wrapping, compression wrapping, or both. Get someone to help you. Position the foot so the tendon is relaxed. Cover the tendon in a protective pad. Apply anchor points above and below the tendon. Run strips of the adhesive athletic tape between the anchor points. Wrap the anchor points again to secure the strips across the Achilles. Start wrapping above the ankle. Wrap from the toes to the top of the ankle. Secure the wrap. the area for 15-20 minutes at a time, several times each day. Elevate the area. Avoid putting pressure on the tendon. Take anti-inflammatory medications if you are in pain. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Care-for-Multiple-Guinea-Pigs | How to Care for Multiple Guinea Pigs | To care for multiple guinea pigs, try keeping them together in 1 big cage, since guinea pigs usually like each other's company. You should also line the bottom of the cage with several inches of unscented litter for them to dig in. Make sure to provide multiple food bowls and 2 water bottles so they don't fight when they're eating and drinking. If you have male and female guinea pigs, you'll need to keep them in separate cages to stop them reproducing. Additionally, separate them immediately if they start fighting, or if you notice signs of aggression, like blood being drawn or lunging, to prevent any injuries. | Select a large cage. Guinea pigs enjoy one another's company, so find a cage that's large enough for all of the guinea pigs you plan on keeping together. You should also consider getting an extra cage that has enough room for one guinea pig. If you need to separate a guinea pig that's not getting along, it should have at least 7.5 square feet (7 square kilometers) of space in its own cage. To keep: Two guinea pigs, choose a 30 in × 50 in (76 cm × 127 cm) cage. Three guinea pigs, buy a 30 in × 62 in (76 cm × 157 cm) cage. Four guinea pigs, get a 30 in × 76 in (76 cm × 193 cm) cage. Line the cage and set out sticks or blocks to gnaw. Scatter unscented litter, shredded ink-free paper, or nesting materials that you buy from the pet store several inches deep in the bottom of the cage. Your guinea pig will use this space to sleep and toilet. Avoid spreading things that are heavily scented (such as cedar shavings, pine shavings, or sawdust). Place tunnels, wooden sticks, blocks, and hay in the cage. Your guinea pigs will need things to chew on and each pig needs a place to hide. These will make your guinea pigs feel more secure. Set up the cage in a comfortable area of your home. Keep the cage in a dry space that's between 65 and 75 degrees F (18 to 24 degrees C) and is out of direct sun. Put the cage in an active area of your house so your guinea pigs can enjoy seeing and interacting with people. Ensure that the cage isn't right next to loud things (such as televisions, stereos, or laundry machines) since their hearing is sensitive. Clean the cage once a week, and spot clean the run every day. Set out fresh water and food. Your guinea pigs should always have access to fresh water. You can place the water in ceramic bowls or hang a water bottle or two on the side of the cage. Offer multiple or separate dishes of food to prevent the pigs from bullying each other or restricting one pig's access to food. Remove uneaten food and replace the water every day. You should also clean the food and water containers every few days. Remember to give your guinea pigs a combination of fresh hay (not alfalfa), fresh vegetable greens, commercial guinea pig food, and fresh fruit as a treat (only once or twice a week). Decide what sex to get. Consider what guinea pigs you already have. Avoid getting more than one male per group of females since they can fight for dominance. If you have females or females with a neutered male, get another female. If you have several males, add another male, but try to get one that's younger than the established guinea pigs. Keep the new guinea pig separated for 2 to 3 weeks. You'll need to quarantine your new guinea pig before you put it in the cage with the other guinea pigs. Quarantining is important to prevent the spread of disease between your pets. Keep the guinea new guinea pig in a separate cage in another room. Check the guinea pig for lice, fleas, skin problems (such as scratching, hair loss, or fungus), and wheezing. If you're concerned about the health of your new guinea pig, take it to the vet immediately for treatment. Always handle your new guinea pig after you've handled your established guinea pigs. Remember to wash your hands after handling the guinea pigs. Introduce the new guinea pig. Once you're certain that the new guinea pig is completely healthy, give them a chance to interact. For example, lay a large towel on a couch and get a couple of friends or family members to hold the guinea pigs. Have each person sit on opposite ends of the couch with the guinea pigs. Let the guinea pigs move across the couch towards each other. Gradually extend the time they spend together, then try them together in the run or hutch. Supervise them until they have been together for prolonged periods (repeatedly) without fighting. Watch for positive interactions. If the guinea pigs are getting along, they may go right up to each other and nuzzle one another. Your guinea pigs might just show signs of being curious about each other. These are common signs that your guinea pigs are just getting to know one another: Sniffing or nudging bottoms Chasing Dragging their bottoms Mounting each other Teeth chattering Separate and follow your guinea pigs' lead. If the guinea pigs look as though they're going to injure one another, you'll need to put them back in separate cages. Give them some time apart before trying to re-introduce them. While it's normal to see a little nipping, keep your guinea pigs apart if you notice: Blood being drawn Lunging or attacking Loud teeth chattering Rearing on their haunches Physical attacks Check their sex. Keep in mind that if you keep male and female guinea pigs together, your guinea pigs will reproduce. You can keep neutered or spayed guinea pigs together, but it's still important to know their sex and if they've been sterilized. Females usually have a swollen mound over their genitals and a Y-shaped opening. If you press the genital area on males, you should see a small penis and feel a ridge right next to it. If you're unsure about the sex, you can ask the veterinarian to tell you. Pet stores are unreliable at determining the sex. Start early if you're keeping males together. While female guinea pigs usually get along without any behavioral problems, males paired with males can become territorial over time. If you'd like to keep males together, house them in the same cage at a very early age (before 6 months old). They may still act up as they age, but they'll be more closely bonded. Spend time with all of your guinea pigs. Just because your guinea pigs have companions doesn't mean you're not needed. Take time every day to take your guinea pigs out of their cage and handle them. Play with the guinea pigs or just hold them and give them treats. | Select a large cage. Line the cage and set out sticks or blocks to gnaw. Set up the cage in a comfortable area of your home. Set out fresh water and food. Decide what sex to get. Keep the new guinea pig separated for 2 to 3 weeks. Introduce the new guinea pig. Watch for positive interactions. Separate and follow your guinea pigs' lead. Check their sex. Start early if you're keeping males together. Spend time with all of your guinea pigs. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Stop-Snoring | How to Stop Snoring | If you want to stop snoring, try sleeping on your side or propping yourself up while you sleep. If that doesn't help, try using a nasal rinse before bed to clear your sinus passages. You can also try changing your lifestyle to prevent snoring, like cutting out alcohol or fatty foods before bed. If you smoke, giving up cigarettes may also help decrease snoring. | . Maintain a healthy weight Extra weight can worsen snoring. Eating a healthy , balanced diet and exercising can help you relieve your snoring symptoms. Talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program. People who are a healthy weight can still have a snoring problem, especially if there are underlying health risks like sleep apnea. Don't drink alcohol right before you go to bed. Alcohol relaxes your body, which actually increases your risk of snoring. This is because your throat muscles will also relax, making them collapse a little. This will cause you to snore more. If snoring is a concern, you should not drink close to bedtime. If you enjoy a drink, limit how much your drink to 2 servings or less, and allow enough time before bed for the effects of the alcohol to wear off. Sleep on your side. Sleeping on your back causes the tissues in the back of your throat to droop down, making your airways narrow. Turning onto either side alleviates this problem, reducing your risk of snoring. Prop yourself up by at least 4 inches if you must sleep on your back. You can use an inclining pillow or lift the head of the bed to raise your sleeping position. This reduces constriction in the back of your throat, making you less likely to snore. Use a special pillow meant to stop snoring. Some patients report sleeping better with an anti-snoring pillow. There are several designs to choose from, such as wedges, cervical support pillows, contour pillows, memory foam pillows, and pillows made for use with sleep apnea. Look for pillows labeled to reduce snoring. Anti-snoring pillows may not work for everyone. Quit smoking. Smoking increases your risk of snoring. It also makes snoring worse. Overall, giving up cigarettes can help you breathe better, so give it a try. If you're struggling to quit, talk to your doctor about quitting aides, like gum, patches, and prescription medication. Limit your use of sedatives. Sedatives relax your central nervous system, which includes your throat muscles. This can increase the risk of snoring. Avoiding them can help reduce your snoring risk. If you have trouble sleeping, it might help to get on a sleep schedule. Talk to your doctor before quitting any prescription medications. Sing for 20 minutes a day to help tighten your throat muscles. Since slack throat muscles can be the cause of snoring, tightening them can help eliminate your symptoms. When performed daily for at least 20 minutes, singing can help tighten your muscles. Alternatively, you could play a wind instrument, such as the oboe or french horn. Apply nasal strips or a nasal dilator to keep your airways open. Over-the-counter nasal strips are an easy, inexpensive way to keep your airways open. They work by attaching to the outside of your nostrils and pulling open your nose. Similarly, a nasal dilator is a re-usuble nasal strip that you wear over your nose to help keep your airways open. You can find both nasal strips and nasal dilators at local drugstores or online. These items do not work for everyone, especially if you have an underlying condition like sleep apnea. Take decongestants or rinse your nasal passages if you have sinus congestion. Sinus congestion blocks your airways and can cause snoring. Over-the-counter decongestants can help relieve sinus congestion. Another great option is to rinse your sinuses with saline solution before bed. Only rinse your sinuses with a sterile saline solution, which you can buy over-the-counter or make at home. When making your own, use distilled or bottled water. It's also a good idea to take antihistamines if you have allergies, which can lead to sinus congestion. Use a humidifier to keep your airways moist. Dryness in your airways sometimes causes snoring, but keeping the airways moist can alleviate this problem. A humidifier is an easy way to avoid dryness. Place the humidifier in your bedroom while you're sleeping. Talk to your doctor to rule out underlying medical conditions. It's best to talk to your doctor if you suspect you're snoring. Some underlying health conditions can cause snoring, such as sleep apnea, which is a serious condition linked to other health complications such as high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and depression. If you notice the following symptoms, make an appointment to discuss them with your doctor. Excessive sleepiness. Headaches after waking. Difficulty concentrating during the day. Sore throat in the morning. Restlessness. Waking up at night due to gasping or choking. High blood pressure readings. Chest pain at night. Being told you snore. Allow your doctor to conduct an imaging test. An X-ray, CT-scan, or MRI will let your doctor check your sinus passages and airways for issues, such as narrowness or a deviated septum. This allows the doctor to eliminate possible causes so that they can recommend the right treatment options. These tests are noninvasive and painless. However, you may experience some discomfort from staying still for a period of time. Undergo a sleep study if your symptoms continue after other treatments. Most patients will get better after making lifestyle changes and visiting their doctor. However, sometimes the underlying issue is more complicated. For example, you may have sleep apnea a condition where you stop breathing for a short period of time before naturally recovering. Your doctor may recommend a sleep study to find out what is causing your snoring. A sleep study is very easy for the patient. Your doctor will schedule an appointment at a sleep study clinic, where you'll sleep normally in an office that resembles a hotel room. You'll be hooked up to a machine that causes no pain and minimal discomfort. An expert in another room will then monitor your sleeping to produce a report for your doctor. You may be able to do an at-home sleep study. Your doctor will give you a device to wear while you sleep, which will record your sleep information for later analysis. Use a CPAP machine if you have sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is a serious condition that requires medical treatment for a good outcome. This not only disrupts sleep, it's also associated with other life-threatening conditions. Your doctor will likely prescribe a continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) machine to help you breathe better at night. It's important to use your CPAP machine every night and to follow all of your doctor's instructions. Clean your CPAP machine properly. Clean your mask daily, and your tubing and water chamber once a week. Using your CPAP machine can help you breathe easier, snore less, and sleep better as you work on controlling and ultimately eliminating your sleep apnea. In many cases, you will not need a CPAP for life. Talk to a respiratory therapist for more information regarding starting and stopping CPAP use. Get fitted for a dental mouthpiece to relieve snoring. A dentist can fit you for a mouthpiece that pulls your jaw and tongue forward slightly so that your airways remain open. While they can be effective, they are also costly. They can carry a price tag as high as $1,000 USD. You can find inexpensive over-the-counter mouthpieces that may work, though they won't be as well-fitted as one shaped by a dentist. Consider surgery if no other treatment options work. In rare cases, surgery is necessary to treat the causes of snoring. Your doctor will discuss this option if they think it's best for you. The doctor may perform a tonsillectomy or adenoidectomy to remove the obstruction causing your snoring, such as inflamed tonsils or adenoids. If you have sleep apnea, the doctor might tighten or reduce your soft palate or uvula. A doctor may also tighten the frenum of your tongue or reduce the size of it to help your air flow more freely through your airways if they find that your tongue contributes to airflow obstruction. | . Don't drink alcohol right before you go to bed. Sleep on your side. Prop yourself up by at least 4 inches if you must sleep on your back. Use a special pillow meant to stop snoring. Quit smoking. Limit your use of sedatives. Sing for 20 minutes a day to help tighten your throat muscles. Apply nasal strips or a nasal dilator to keep your airways open. Take decongestants or rinse your nasal passages if you have sinus congestion. Use a humidifier to keep your airways moist. Talk to your doctor to rule out underlying medical conditions. Allow your doctor to conduct an imaging test. Undergo a sleep study if your symptoms continue after other treatments. Use a CPAP machine if you have sleep apnea. Get fitted for a dental mouthpiece to relieve snoring. Consider surgery if no other treatment options work. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-QuickBooks-Certified | How to Become QuickBooks Certified | To become Quickbooks certified, you'll need to pass an exam, which will cover topics about Quickbooks features like payroll and budgeting. You'll also want to make sure you're capable of setting up the software, working with lists, and entering data for sales and invoices, since these are all things you'll be tested on in the certification exam. Before the exam, try out a few practice tests, which you can get from the Intuit website, to see how you get on. Once you feel ready for the certification exam, visit the Accounting Training and Testing Center website to select an exam date. | Ask yourself if you need the certification. While some individuals may benefit from a QuickBooks certification, others may find it unnecessary. While you cannot claim to be “certified” with QuickBooks without the certification process, that doesn't stop you from otherwise becoming proficient in—or even mastering—the software. The certification also applies only to QuickBooks. Since the user interface for other accounting software can be completely different, a QuickBooks certification doesn't help you with clients or employers who expect you to use other accounting software. Note that since the certification process primarily allows you to market your experience with QuickBooks to others, it's largely unnecessary if you only use the software for your personal finances or those of your small business. While you should always learn how to use your chosen accounting software correctly, you don't require a personal certification to do so. Since QuickBooks is only one form of accounting software, and it largely handles the necessary math for you, don't confuse a QuickBooks certification with an accredited education in accounting. The certification does not make you a certified bookkeeper or accountant. Gain experience working with QuickBooks. Intuit recommends that you have at least two years of experience using QuickBooks for tasks related to payroll and invoicing, as well as budgeting and cost reports. However, there are no formal eligibility requirements related to the certification process, so you can take the certification exam as soon as you feel you have the necessary skills. Keep in mind getting QuickBooks certified is not required for bookkeepers, business owners, or anyone else who is proficient with the software. Becoming QuickBooks certified means you can use an official QuickBooks certification and logo on your resume and business documents, which is primarily a marketing tool for attracting clients or employers who specifically want you to have QuickBooks experience. Learn what to expect from the exam. You can expect to be tested on a variety of skills related to QuickBooks usage. These include: Setting up the software Working with lists Working with various bank accounts Using other QuickBooks accounts Entering data for sales and invoices Receiving payments and making deposits with the software Entering and paying bills Analyzing financial data in QuickBooks Research which type of certification fits your needs. Intuit offers a variety of different versions of QuickBooks based on the individual or company needs. Equally, they offer different levels of certification, testing different levels of the software's functionality. Again, since the certification is primarily a marketing tool to target your client demographic, you should only consider certification at the level that makes sense for your usage. You can apply for certifications such as: ProAdvisor without Certification : This level provides QuickBooks training materials without an actual certification. You will learn basic QuickBooks skills similar to those in non-Intuit training methods for the software. ProAdvisor with Certification in QuickBooks Pro/Premier : You will need to take a simplistic certification test that focuses on various aspects of using QuickBooks Pro and Premier. ProAdvisor with Certification in Intuit QuickBooks Enterprise Solutions : This is a slightly more complex certification test. You will be focusing on the Intuit QuickBooks Enterprise Solutions product. ProAdvisor with Certification in QuickBooks Point of Sale : This is a fairly complex certification test. You will be focusing on the QuickBooks Point of Sale products. Advanced Certified ProAdvisor : You will take an extremely complex certification exam. You will also be tested on the advanced functionality of the products, troubleshooting errors, integrating third party applications, detailed job costing, and several other advanced areas. Decide if a training course is right for you. If you aren't yet confident in your level of QuickBooks expertise to pass your chosen certification exam, you can always take QuickBooks training classes. You can find a wide array of these classes both in person and online to fit your schedule. Some options include: Official online or in-person training through the Intuit Academy. Although you should note that taking the classes through Intuit does not necessarily make you more qualified for the certification exam. Through an authorized accounting organization. The NACPB offers a training course that culminates in the certification exam for $499. Through an accredited bookkeeping class. You can also take classes on QuickBooks basics through a variety of accredited colleges or other educational institutions. Especially if you've decided you want to learn QuickBooks without being concerned with the certification process, you can still learn the necessary skills with the software for your needs with this method. Buy an exam study guide. A study guide is another option when it comes to preparing for your certification. Since the certification exam is an open-book test, you can also use a study guide as a reference later during your actual certification exam. You can also access an online study guide here: http://www.certiport.com/Portal/Common/DocumentLibrary/QuickBooks_CUser_Study_Guide.pdf. There are online tutorials available on the official QuickBooks website that you can access for free. These tutorials can walk you through certain processes or sections in QuickBooks. Complete several practice exams. There are several free practice exams available online through Intuit and other training programs. While they aren't required to take the actual certification, you can test your preparedness by taking at least two practice exams. Time them for two hours (the time given for the official exam). The official exam is open book, so feel free to use your study guide during your practice exams. Sign up to take the exam. The QuickBooks exam is overseen by the National Association of Certified Public Bookkeepers (NACPB). You can take the exam online through the Accountant Training and Testing Center (ATTC). When you are ready to take the exam, go to the ATTC's Schedule a Test web page and schedule a date and time you want to take the test. The ATTC will then email you information about your schedule date and time for the exam. Note that while being offered through an official bookkeeping association, the test still only demonstrates your proficiency with QuickBooks, and it in no way certifies you as a bookkeeper or an accountant. Also notes that the fee for the exam is $150 if you are not a member of the NACPB. NACPB members pay $100 to take the exam. If you fail the exam, you can pay a re examination fee ($75 for non NACPB members, $50 for NACPB members) and retake the exam. Take the exam. The exam consists of 50 multiple choice questions and simulations. To pass the exam, you must score at least 75%, or 37 out 50 questions correct. However, the exam is open book and you are given two hours to complete the exam. Upon passing the exam, you will receive an official certificate and certification logo that you can use to market yourself to clients and potential employers who use QuickBooks. If you fail the exam, you will receive a discounted re-examination fee if you choose to take it again through the NACPB. The discounted rate is $50 for members and $75 for nonmembers. Maintain up to date certification by going through the certification process several times through your career. Software changes over time, and your certification will only certify you for one version of QuickBooks. Consider re-certifying every year or several years to keep your QuickBooks certification current. | Ask yourself if you need the certification. Gain experience working with QuickBooks. Learn what to expect from the exam. Research which type of certification fits your needs. Decide if a training course is right for you. Buy an exam study guide. Complete several practice exams. Sign up to take the exam. Take the exam. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Nail-Polish-Without-Using-Remover | How to Remove Nail Polish Without Using Remover | To remove nail polish without using remover, try using another product that has alcohol in it, like hairspray, perfume, or hand sanitizer. The alcohol will help dissolve the polish on your nails. Just apply the alcohol-based product to a cotton pad, then rub it over your nails. Repeat until all of your nail polish is gone. You can also use hydrogen peroxide to remove nail polish. First, add 2 parts hydrogen peroxide and 1 part water to a bowl. Then, soak your nails in the mixture, and massage the polish off with your fingers. White vinegar and lemon juice will also work in a pinch. Just add 3 tablespoons (45 mL) of vinegar and the juice from one lemon to a bowl, and soak your nails in it for 10 to 20 minutes. Wipe off any leftover polish with a cotton ball. Whichever method you use, remember to apply lotion to your hands afterward to keep your skin soft and hydrated. | Use alcohol and alcohol-based products to peel away polish. The stronger the alcohol content the better this will work. Of course, your first move should be to use isopropyl alcohol, also known as rubbing alcohol, but there are other products that contain alcohol (or ethyl glycol) in them. If you see this listed as an ingredient on a product in your home, that product may be effective in removing nail polish: Perfume Hair-spray Hand sanitizer Spray-on deodorant Rubbing alcohol While alcoholic spirits shouldn't be your first option, clear, high-alcohol drinks like vodka, grappa, or gin will all battle nail polish. You may have to soak your nails for 10-20 minutes in the liquor for the best effects. Use white vinegar, or a vinegar solution mixed with lemon juice, to fight nail polish. Vinegar is an acid and all-purpose, all-natural cleaner around the house. So it makes sense that it could be used to strip away nail polish. For added effect, squeeze in half a lemon, or even some orange juice, to get powerful citrus cleaning power as well. Soak your fingers for 10-15 minutes before trying to remove. however, do not pick away the polish with your other nails as it can weaken them. Use some basic toothpaste to scrub away polish. A dollop of toothpaste is all you need. Then start scrubbing with an old toothbrush or a paper towel. In general, white toothpastes work best as they lift and pull the color off your nail. Furthermore, toothpaste with baking soda, a well-known natural cleaning solution, often has the best results. Mix two parts hydrogen peroxide with one part hot water and soak for 10 minutes. This means that, if you use roughly one cup of hot water, you use two cups of hydrogen peroxide. Soak in the hottest water you can find, lightly working the nails with your free fingers, then file the polish off with a nail file. Use a powerful solvent or paint remover alternatively, though it is not recommended. This is not a solution for every day, as these chemicals can be dangerous. That said, they will work to remove nail polish, often just as fast as nail polish remover would. The following products should be a last resort, and should be applied in a well-ventilated area: Acetone Paint thinner Fluid Thinner Apply your chosen product with a cotton ball. Once you've found a product that can act as nail polish remover, soak a cotton ball or paper towel in that product. Then, gently dab onto your nails on each hand. Add more product to the cotton ball or paper towel as needed. If the cotton ball of paper towel becomes saturated with color, replace it. Let the product sit for a minute. As you're not using conventional nail polish remover, you'll need to let the product sink in. Leave the product resting on your nails for about a minute. The longer you let the product sit, the better. If you've tried this already, or need stronger remover, soak your nails directly in the solution for 4-5 minutes beforehand, then continue from this step. Wipe the product off your nails, scrubbing to remove polish. After the product has been sitting for a minute, wipe your nails dry. Once again, use a cotton pad or paper towel. It may take a bit more effort than would be needed with regular nail polish. Thicker or glittery nail polishes may take longer to remove. You may have to repeat the process if not all the polish is removed the first time. An old toothbrush can aid in scrubbing. Paper towels are generally sturdier than cotton balls, and may help get rid of some tougher polishes. Soak your hand in hot water, rubbing and chipping at the polish, and try again. Hot water will loosen the polish, allowing you to get another nail under it and remove chunks of polish. This is great for finishing up any last bits or weakening the polish for another round of DIY remover. Get the water as hot as you can tolerate without burning yourself for best results. You may need to soak for 20-25 minutes, so put it in while watching some TV and then wipe when the show is over. Reheat water when necessary. Select another nail polish that will not dry too quickly. Nail polish dries due evaporation of the solvents it contains. Applying the second coat effectively softens these same solvents. This allows the polish to return to a liquid state and be wiped away. The best type of polish for this method is thin and slow to dry. A clear top coat would work, as they tend to dry slowly. Avoid quick dry nail polishes or sprays or drops that cause nails to dry faster. Some blogs suggest that darker colors than the polish you're removing often have the best effects. That said, the rate at which a polish dries is the most important factor. It should be slow. Apply the polish to one nail at a time. Paint the nail, covering the old polish. You do not need to take as much time applying the polish as you normally would as you are going to wipe it off anyway. Do not allow the new polish to dry. If it dries on, the nail polish will be even more difficult to remove which will take even longer. Wipe the new polish off quickly. Immediately after adding new polish, wipe off the old nail polish. For the best results, use a paper towel. While many people typically use cotton balls when using nail polish remover, you should avoid cotton balls when using this method. They are likely to break apart or get stuck to the wet polish, leaving the polish stuck on. You may have to apply some force for the best effect. While using a second layer of nail polish is effective, it may require slightly more effort than using normal remover to wipe up the old paint Repeat painting and wiping until your nails are free of polish. This method may take a few tries before it works correctly. Keep adding another layer of nail polish and rubbing it off. It may take two or three rounds before polish is fully removed. Difficult to remove polishes, like glitter-based polishes, will require more care. This method is often a good start, removing the main chunks of paint. You can then use the DIY methods above to finish removing the paint. Make a base coat with glue and water. If you struggle to remove nail polish due to a preference for glittery polishes, there is a way to take preventative measures to make removal easier. This method must be done before you paint your nails but can be a great way to avoid nail polish removal problems down the road. You make a mixture of glue and water that you apply prior to glittery nails. You will need white elementary school glue, an empty nail polish bottle, and water. Fill the bottle with about a third of the way with glue. Then add water and swirl around until the mixture is thin enough to be spread on your nails. Apply and dry the glue base coat before putting on polish. Paint your nails with one layer of the glue base coat before adding your polish. Wait about five minutes for it to dry thoroughly before applying the next coat. If you normally use another kind of base coat, such as one to prevent staining, apply that after your glue base coat. Apply nail polish. When you are done with your glue-based coat and any other base coats you use, apply your glittery nail polish as you normally would. The glue has hardened on the nail, and the polish hardens on the glue. Luckily, the glue comes off of your nail easily with some force, making it much easier to remove. Soak your nails when you're ready to remove your polish. Place your nails in warm soapy water for a few minutes. You can also run your fingers under a tap while lathering with soap. This will soften the polish so that it is much easier to remove without damaging your nails. Peel off your old nail polish. You can peel off the nail polish using your fingers. However, you can also use a cuticle pusher, a toothpick, or some other thin, blunt object if you're having trouble doing so. Gently push it under the nail polish at the base of your nail until the old polish slides off. It should be easy to pop off completely all in one sheet. | Use alcohol and alcohol-based products to peel away polish. Use white vinegar, or a vinegar solution mixed with lemon juice, to fight nail polish. Use some basic toothpaste to scrub away polish. Mix two parts hydrogen peroxide with one part hot water and soak for 10 minutes. Use a powerful solvent or paint remover alternatively, though it is not recommended. Apply your chosen product with a cotton ball. Let the product sit for a minute. Wipe the product off your nails, scrubbing to remove polish. Soak your hand in hot water, rubbing and chipping at the polish, and try again. Select another nail polish that will not dry too quickly. Apply the polish to one nail at a time. Wipe the new polish off quickly. Repeat painting and wiping until your nails are free of polish. Make a base coat with glue and water. Apply and dry the glue base coat before putting on polish. Apply nail polish. Soak your nails when you're ready to remove your polish. Peel off your old nail polish. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Ready-for-School-Quickly | How to Get Ready for School Quickly | To get ready for school quickly, pack your lunch and backpack the night before so you have less to do in the morning. You can also shower at night to save yourself even more time. When you set your alarm at night, place it far across your room so you have to get out of bed in the morning to turn it off. Once you're up, splash your face with cold water and drink some coffee so you're alert and ready to go. | Make and pack your lunch at night. Start making your school lunch a little bit after you finish dinner. Once it's packed, put your lunch bag in the fridge overnight to keep it fresh - you don't want moldy food in the morning. The next morning, grab it and put it in your backpack right before you head out the door. If you tend to forget your lunch, you may want to put a reminder sticky note in your bedroom, or somewhere you go often (reasonably; not like in the garden) If you usually buy your lunch, make sure you have enough lunch money, then pack it away in your bag. Pack your backpack before you go to bed. When you finish your homework, put everything back in your bag so it's ready for the next day and you don't forget it. Make sure you put anything else you'll need, like permission slips, special projects, pencil case, into the bag. Put your backpack by your bedroom door or near your front door before you go to sleep. That way, you can grab it as you walk out. Choose and lay out your entire outfit before you go to sleep. Looking for an outfit in the morning can seriously slow you down. Pick yours out the night before instead. Don't forget to lay out socks, shoes, underwear, jewelry, and makeup (if you wear it). Be sure to wash and iron your clothes before you lay them out. If you have a school uniform, you can easily lay it out the night before and throw it on the following morning. Take a shower at night instead of in the morning. Taking a shower at night can save you lots of time in the morning. Not everybody likes to shower at night, though, and you may need that invigorating morning shower to start your day. However, give it a try a few times. If you can get used to it, you'll be able to sleep for an extra 15 to 30 minutes! Choose a bedtime and stick to it every night. Be consistent about what time you wake in the morning, too. Your body likes routines, and the quality of your sleep will be better if you go to bed and wake up at the same time every day. Aim to get 8 to 10 hours of sleep on school nights. Set a reminder on your smartphone that alerts you when it's 20 minutes before your bedtime. That gives you enough time to wash up, brush your teeth, and get into your pajamas before it's time to hit the sack. Set your alarm clock before you go to sleep. Try to give yourself at least 45 minutes to get ready in the morning before you have to head out the door. If you think you can get ready faster, go for it! It really just depends on what you have to do in the morning to get ready. Try putting your alarm on the other side of the room if you hit snooze a lot. That way, you have to get up and walk across the room every time it goes off. You can also try setting an alarm on your smartphone to go off about 10 minutes after your first alarm clock. That way, if you snooze through the first alarm, you'll have backup. Stop keeping your phone near your bed. When your phone is nearby, it's hard not to pick it up and check your social media. The light from your phone can disrupt your sleep schedule and make it more difficult to wake up. Put your phone out of reach. It's okay to check your phone before you go to bed, but don't get in bed with it or sleep with it. Most people start to text people and immediately start a full on conversation with them which takes hours which delays your bedtime. If you routinely can't wake up in the morning, try turning off your phone, computer, and video games an hour before bedtime. You'll feel sleepier faster. Wash your face. Splashing some cold water on your face first thing in the morning may seem horrible, but is very refreshing once you get used to it. Gently clean your face with a warm washcloth and some face wash. Brush your teeth and use toiletries in the same order every day. Try to do your morning routine in the same order every day -- the more you practice, the easier and faster it will go. Try brushing your teeth, putting on deodorant, and checking your hair and face in the same order. Put your clothes on as soon as possible. Lots of people like to putter around in their pajamas in the morning, but if you have somewhere to be, this wastes time! Get into the habit of getting dressed as soon as you get out of the bed or shower. Choose simple hairstyles. Brush your hair and style it simply, so you don't spend a lot of time on your hair. Ponytails, messy buns, and loose hair are all great, simple looks. Streamline your makeup time. There are several ways to minimize your makeup time. You can wear less makeup, try basic looks, or save easy stuff like lip gloss or concealer for the ride to school. If you love getting dolled up for school, try laying out your makeup the night before in the same order you're going to use it. Take advantage of waiting times. If you have to wait for a sibling to get out of the bathroom or for a hair straightener to heat up, use that time to get ready in other areas. For example, if you can't shower until your sister gets out of the bathroom, eat breakfast or double-check your backpack while you wait. Drink a small amount of coffee or tea (optional). Overloading on caffeine won't make up for a lack of sleep, but a regular serving size of coffee or tea will help you feel a little more alert when you start your day. Don't drink more than 1 cup or add a ton of sugar to it -- you'll crash before lunchtime. Eat a quick but substantial breakfast. Never, ever skip breakfast, even when you're running late. You'll be miserable and hungry until lunchtime. If you're worried about running out of time, put a banana or granola bar in your backpack as soon as you get up. Check your backpack before you leave. Packing your backpack the night before when you're more relaxed will help you leave more quickly, but it's a good idea to give your bag a quick final check right before you leave. If everything's in there, head to school! | Make and pack your lunch at night. Pack your backpack before you go to bed. Choose and lay out your entire outfit before you go to sleep. Take a shower at night instead of in the morning. Choose a bedtime and stick to it every night. Set your alarm clock before you go to sleep. Try putting your alarm on the other side of the room if you hit snooze a lot. Stop keeping your phone near your bed. Wash your face. Brush your teeth and use toiletries in the same order every day. Put your clothes on as soon as possible. Choose simple hairstyles. Streamline your makeup time. Take advantage of waiting times. Drink a small amount of coffee or tea (optional). Eat a quick but substantial breakfast. Check your backpack before you leave. |
https://www.wikihow.com/Plant-Sunflower-Seeds | How to Plant Sunflower Seeds | If you want to plant sunflower seeds, wait until all danger of frost has passed, then germinate the seeds by folding them in a damp paper towel for 2-3 days. When you're choosing a location for your sunflowers, look for an area with deep drainage and which receives 6-8 hours of full sun a day. Plant the seeds 1 inch deep and 6 inches apart. Keep the soil moist, but not soaking wet, until the sprouts emerge from the soil, and water 3-4 inches away from new sprouts so the plants don't wash away. Reduce your watering frequency to once a week when the sunflowers have formed stems. | Check the outdoor temperatures. While sunflowers can be started indoors, they work best if they're started in the ground. Sunflower roots are sensitive to being moved, so transplanting them may kill them. They grow best at temperatures between 64 and 91ºF (18–33ºC), but you can plant at slightly lower temperatures, once the last frost has passed. Sunflowers usually take 80 to 120 days to mature and produce new seeds, depending on the variety. If the growing season is shorter than this in your area, plant the sunflowers two weeks before the last frost; most seeds will probably survive. Select a sunflower variety. There are many sunflower varieties and hybrids, but most gardeners will only need to look at a couple characteristics, usually described on the seed packet or online listing. Be sure to check the sunflower's maximum height, since this ranges from dwarf varieties under 1 foot (30 cm), to giant sunflowers 15 ft (4.6 m) or taller. Also, decide between a sunflower that produces one stalk and flower, or one that branches out into multiple stalks with several smaller blooms. It is not possible to grow plants from roasted sunflower seeds, but you can grow it from sunflowers in bird seed, as long as the outer shell is present. Fold the seeds in a damp paper towel. Moisten a paper towel slightly, so it is damp but not soaked or dripping. Place the sunflower seeds on one half of the towel, then fold it over to cover them. If you have a large number of sunflower seeds, and don't mind a lower success rate, you can skip straight to planting. Seeds planted directly in the soil typically take 11 days to emerge. If you have a long growing season, try germinating seeds in batches one or two weeks apart, so you'll have blooms in your garden for a longer period of time. Keep the paper towels in a plastic bag. Put the damp paper towels in a plastic bag. Check on them once or twice a day, and continue once the seeds have sprouted. Typically, you'll see sprouts emerge from most of the seeds within 48 hours. Once this happens, move on to planting the seeds. Keep the paper towels at a temperature above 50ºF (10ºC) for best results. Clip the edge of the seed shells (if necessary). If the seeds don't sprout within two or three days, try using a fingernail clipper to remove the edge of the shell. Be careful not to damage the seed inside. Add a few more drops of water if the paper towels are drying out. Choose a sunny location. Sunflowers grow best with six to eight hours of sunlight a day, when they can get it. Choose a location that receives direct sunlight during most of the day. Unless your garden receives strong wind, keep the sunflowers away from trees, walls, and other objects that block sunlight. Check for deep soil drainage. Sunflowers grow long taproots, and may rot if the soil is waterlogged. Dig a hole 2 feet (0.6 meters) deep to check for hard, compacted soil. If you find any, try mixing compost into your soil bed to improve the drainage. Consider soil quality. Sunflowers are not too picky, and can grow in average garden soils without extra treatment. If your soil is poor, or you want to put in the extra effort to encourage growth, mix rich, loamy soil into your planting area. There is rarely any need to adjust your soil pH, but if you already own a pH kit, you may adjust it to between 6.0 and 7.2. Rich soil is recommended for giant varieties, since they require more nutrients. Plant seeds 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep and 6 in. (15 cm) apart. Plant the seeds in holes or trenches one in. (2.5 cm) deep, or 2 in. (5 cm) if the soil is loose and sandy. Keep seeds at least 6 in. (15 cm) from each other, to give each one enough space to grow. If you only have a few seeds and don't want to thin out the weaker plants later, plant them 1 ft. (30 cm) apart instead, or up to 1.5 ft. (46 cm) for giant varieties. Cover the seeds with soil after planting. If you are planting a large sunflower crop, space each trench 30 in (76 cm) apart, or at any distance convenient for your machinery. Keep soil around young plants moist. Keep the soil moist, but not soaking wet, until the sprouts emerge from the soil. While the sprouts are still small and fragile, water 3 to 4 inches (7.5 to 10 cm) away from the plant, to encourage root growth without washing the plants away. Protect the plants from pests. Birds, squirrels, and snails love sunflower seeds, and may dig them up even before the sprouts have emerged. Cover the ground with netting to make this more difficult without blocking sprouts. Place snail bait or snail repellent in a circle to form a barrier around your planting area. If deer are in your area, encircle the plants with chicken wire once they start growing leaves. You can use a 36 inch (91 cm) piece of chicken wire to surround the leaves and use a few 6 ft. (1.8 m) bamboo poles or wooden stakes to raise the chicken wire as the sunflowers grow. This should protect them from deer. Water maturing plants weekly. Once the plants have formed stems and an established root system, reduce the watering frequency to once a week. Water generously during the weekly session, and increase the amount of water in dry weather. Sunflowers require more water than most other annual flowers. The period before and after your plant grows flower buds is a critical time and not getting enough water may damage it. Continue to water the your sunflowers weekly once the flower buds start to form. Thin the plants (optional). Once the flowers are about 3 in (7.5 cm) tall, remove the smaller, weaker flowers until the remainder are spaced at least 1 ft (30 cm) apart. This will give the larger, healthier sunflowers more space and nutrients, resulting in taller stalks and larger blooms. Skip this step if you want small blooms to arrange in bouquets, or if you planted at this spacing to begin with. Fertilize sparingly or not at all. If you are growing sunflowers for your own enjoyment, fertilization is not recommended, since they grow well without it and can suffer if overfed. If you are trying to grow extra-tall sunflowers, or growing them as a crop, dilute the fertilizer in water and pour into a "moat" around the plant, well away from the base. A balanced or nitrogen-rich fertilizer are likely the best options. Another option is a one time application of slow-release fertilizer, worked into the soil. Stake plants if necessary. Plants over 3 ft (0.9 m) may need to be supported with stakes, as do varieties that produce multiple branches. Tie the stalk loosely to the stake using cloth or other soft material. Harvest the seeds (optional). Sunflower blooms often last 30–45 days. Toward the end of this period, the green back of the flower head will begin to turn brown. If you want to gather seeds for roasting , or for next year's planting, cover the flowers with paper bags to protect them from birds. Cut off the flowers once fully dry. If left alone, the flowers will drop seeds for next year's crop. Harvesting them yourself guarantees protection from pests, however. | Check the outdoor temperatures. Select a sunflower variety. Fold the seeds in a damp paper towel. Keep the paper towels in a plastic bag. Clip the edge of the seed shells (if necessary). Choose a sunny location. Check for deep soil drainage. Consider soil quality. Plant seeds 1 inch (2.5 cm) deep and 6 in. Keep soil around young plants moist. Protect the plants from pests. Water maturing plants weekly. Thin the plants (optional). Fertilize sparingly or not at all. Stake plants if necessary. Harvest the seeds (optional). |
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