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https://www.wikihow.com/Find-Out-the-Outcome-of-a-Court-Hearing
How to Find Out the Outcome of a Court Hearing
To find out the outcome of a court hearing, try calling the court directly and asking for the result. Alternatively, search online. For state cases in the U.S. use the Legal Dockets website. Click on the right court. Then, search for the relevant case by the date of hearing, defendant's name, or plaintiff's name. For federal cases, check the Public Access to Court Electronic Records website. You'll need to register, but once you've done that, you can search the outcomes of public court hearings.
Find where the hearing is held. If you aren't a party to the lawsuit, then you will need to find out where the hearing is held. Different courts make this information public in different ways. Some courts, like those in Philadelphia, have a website you can visit. From there, you can search by the defendant's name, the attorney's name, date, or by courtroom. In other courts, you might have to call the court clerk and ask when a hearing is scheduled. You might also ask one of the parties if you know them. They can tell you the courtroom and the date of the hearing. Go to court. Hearings are usually held in open court. Even if you are not a party to the lawsuit, you can sit in on the hearing. You will then be able to hear for yourself the outcome of the hearing. Send a representative. You could have someone else sit in on the court hearing for you. This person could then report back to you about the hearing's outcome. If you are a party to the lawsuit, then you could have a lawyer represent you. The lawyer is authorized to speak on your behalf. Get the date of the hearing. Courts that store court documents electronically will ultimately add the judge's order for the hearing you want to know about. You will log onto the electronic system and pull up the order. However, to search electronically, you will need to know the date of the hearing, otherwise, you could be scrolling through all of the case documents uploaded into the system. Use an online system. The website http://legaldockets.com has links to electronic court records for states around the U.S. Visit the website and then click on a state or territory. You will then be presented with a list of courts for which legal dockets have links. Click on a link to the court. You will then have to provide sufficient information to perform a search. The amount of information will vary from court to court. For example, to search the Cook County, Illinois Docket Search, you will need the court division (civil, chancery, domestic relations, etc.) and the case number. Or, you may search by defendant or plaintiff name. A list of results will show up. You should click on the case that is relevant. Scroll down to find the relevant hearing. The website should either tell you the outcome of the hearing or it will provide you with a microfilm number. You can use the microfilm number to pull up the judge's order itself at the courthouse and find out the outcome. Check PACER for a federal case. In the U.S., the federal court system runs independently of the state court system. PACER collects all of the documents filed in a case, including the judge's order entered after a hearing. You can visit PACER at www.pacer.gov. You must register for free. Once you register, you can use the PACER Case Locator to search for cases by party name. From the list of search results, click the lawsuit that you are interested in. Then click “Docket Report” and “Run Report.” From the list, scroll down until you see the hearing. You can click on the number hyperlink to the left, in the “#” column. You can retrieve a PDF of any opinion or order. If you need help, you can call the PACER hotline at (800) 676-6856 from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday through Friday Central Standard Time. You may also email [email protected]. Call the court where your hearing was held. Depending on the court, you might be able to call the court clerk and ask about the hearing result. Depending on the court's procedure, the clerk may be able to give you the results of your hearing over the phone. However, some courts will be so busy that you may be directed to an electronic system.
Find where the hearing is held. Go to court. Send a representative. Get the date of the hearing. Use an online system. Check PACER for a federal case. Call the court where your hearing was held.
https://www.wikihow.com/Calculate-the-Center-of-Gravity-of-a-Triangle
How to Calculate the Center of Gravity of a Triangle
To calculate the center of gravity of a triangle, start by drawing a line from the midpoint of any 1 of the sides to the opposite vertex to create a median. Next, measure the median and divide it into thirds. For example, if the median is 3.6 cm long, mark the spots that are 1.2 cm and 2.4 cm along the median, starting from the midpoint. The spot that's 1.2 inches from the midpoint is the centroid, or the center of gravity of the triangle.
Find the midpoint of one side of the triangle. To find the midpoint, measure the side, and divide the length in half. Label the midpoint A. For example, if one side of the triangle is 10 cm long, the midpoint will be at 5 cm, since 10 / 2 = 5 {\displaystyle 10/2=5}. Find the midpoint of a second side of the triangle. Measure the length of the side, and divide the length in half. Label the midpoint B. For example, if the side of the triangle is 12 cm long, the midpoint will be at 6 cm, since 12 / 2 = 6 {\displaystyle 12/2=6}. Draw a line from the midpoint of each side to its opposite vertex. These two lines are the median of each side. A vertex is the point at which two sides of a triangle meet. Draw a point where the two medians intersect. This point is the triangle's center of gravity, also called the centroid, or center of mass. The center of gravity is where the three medians intersect, but since the medians only intersect in one point, you can use a shortcut and find the center of gravity by only finding the intersection of two medians. Draw a median of your triangle. Remember, the median is a line drawn from the midpoint of a side to the opposite vertex. You can use any median in the triangle. Measure the length of the median. Make sure the measurement is exact. For example, you might have a median that is 3.6 cm long. Divide the length of the median into thirds. To do this, divide the length by three. Again, make an exact calculation. If you round, you will not find the center of gravity. For example, if your median is 3.6 cm long, you would divide 3.6 by 3: 3.6 c m / 3 = 1.2 c m {\displaystyle 3.6cm/3=1.2cm} , so ⅓ of the median is 1.2 cm. Mark a point on the median ⅓ from the midpoint. This point is the triangle's centroid, which will always divide a median into a 2:1 ratio; that is, the centroid is ⅓ the median's distance from the midpoint, and ⅔ the median's distance from the vertex. For example, on a median that is 3.6 cm long, the centroid will be 1.2 cm up from the midpoint. Determine the coordinates of the three vertices of the triangle. This method only works if you are working with a coordinate plane. The coordinates may already be given, or you may have a triangle drawn on a graph without the coordinates labeled. Remember that coordinates should be listed ( x , y ) {\displaystyle (x,y)}. For example, you might be given triangle PQR, and you need to find and label point P (3, 5), point Q (4, 1), and R (1, 0). Add the value of the x-coordinates. Remember to add all three coordinates. You will not calculate the correct center of gravity if you only use two coordinates. For example, if your three x-coordinates are 3, 4, and 1, add these three values together: 3 + 4 + 1 = 8 {\displaystyle 3+4+1=8}. Add the value of the y-coordinates. Remember to add all three coordinates. For example, if your three y-coordinates are 5, 1, and 0, add these three values together: 5 + 1 + 0 = 6 {\displaystyle 5+1+0=6}. Find the average of the x- and y-coordinates. These coordinates will correspond to the triangle's center of gravity, also known as the centroid or center of mass. To find the average, divide the sum of the coordinates by 3. For example, if the sum of your x-coordinates is 8, the average x-coordinate is 8 / 3 {\displaystyle 8/3}. If the sum of your y-coordinates is 6, the average y-coordinate is 6 / 3 {\displaystyle 6/3} , or 2 {\displaystyle 2}. Plot the center of gravity on the triangle. The center of gravity, or centroid, is the average of the x- and y-coordinates. In the example problem, the center of gravity is the point ( 8 / 3 , 2 ) {\displaystyle (8/3,2)}.
Find the midpoint of one side of the triangle. Find the midpoint of a second side of the triangle. Draw a line from the midpoint of each side to its opposite vertex. Draw a point where the two medians intersect. Draw a median of your triangle. Measure the length of the median. Divide the length of the median into thirds. Mark a point on the median ⅓ from the midpoint. Determine the coordinates of the three vertices of the triangle. Add the value of the x-coordinates. Add the value of the y-coordinates. Find the average of the x- and y-coordinates. Plot the center of gravity on the triangle.
https://www.wikihow.com/Serve-Appetizers
How to Serve Appetizers
Having a variety of appetizers is important, so keep in mind that you should serve 5 different appetizers for 10-20 guests. If you are serving a main course, prepare 4-6 appetizer portions per guest but if you are just serving appetizers, serve 10-15 portions per guest. When you start preparing for your event, cook what you can in advance and simply reheat hot items in the oven right before your guests arrive. To save time,set out vegetable trays and cold items in advance. Bring out hot items, especially those with cheese, only once most of your guests are there.
Vary the number of selections based on the number of guests. For a small dinner party, you should choose at least three different appetizers to serve. This amount will grow as your guest list grows. Stick with three appetizers when inviting 10 guests or less. If you're inviting 10 to 20 guests, offer five different choices. When your guest list ranges between 20 and 40 guests, offer seven selections. If your guest list exceeds 40 guests, provide nine different choices. You do not need to provide more than nine different appetizers, no matter how large your guest list grows. Pick from multiple appetizer families. Appetizers can be grouped into various families. By choosing selections from more than one family, you'll provide enough variety to wake up your guests' tastebuds and prepare them for the main course. Choosing selections from only one family, on the other hand, can cause guests to become too bored or ambivalent toward a certain taste by the time the appetizers are finished. In general, appetizers can be classified under five families: garden, starch, protein, snacks, and dips/spreads. Garden appetizers include vegetables, fruits, potatoes, and olives. Starch appetizers include finger sandwiches, dumplings, pizza, phyllo pastry, bruschetta, breadsticks, crackers, and buns. Protein appetizers include meatballs, sliced meats, skewered meats, chicken wings, sushi, and egg dishes. Snack appetizers include nuts, chips, pretzels, cheese cubes, and popcorn. Dips and spread include guacamole, relishes, preserves, compound butters, and any other spread served with crackers, fruits, or vegetables. Complement the main course. Before selecting your appetizers, you should plan out your main course. Once you've determined that, you should choose appetizers that prepare the palette without overwhelming it. Complements are essentially opposites. If your main course will be filled with rich foods, make sure that most of your appetizers are fairly light and fresh. Conversely, if you're serving a lighter dish as your main course, opt for rich appetizer choices. Do not repeat flavors too often. You can work around a theme, but using the same exact flavors in each course of your meal can quickly dull your guests' palettes. For instance, if your main dish is heavy on cheese, you should avoid appetizer platters that include cheese. Consider the aesthetics. Great appetizers will please both the eye and the stomach. Choose appetizers with contrasting colors and shapes to catch your guests' eyes. For instance, pale cheeses match well with bold, brightly colored fruits. Finger sandwiches with blunt edges pair nicely with rounded meatballs, eggs, or sushi rolls. Similarly, the temperature and texture of your selections should also vary. Include both hot and cold appetizers. Mix and match crunchy foods with soft or creamy selections. Include at least one convenience item. Convenience items are simple appetizers that require no preparation beyond plating them. These choices are both cost-effective and easy to serve. Your appetizers should include more than just convenience items if you want to really impress your guests, but the occasional convenience item is a welcome option. As a standard guide, consider making one-in-three appetizer choices a simple option. Simple options include cold vegetables, crackers, cheese cubes, nuts, and chips. These foods can help fill up your guests without breaking your piggy bank. Moreover, unused portions are usually easy to save for later. Prepare enough for your guests. No matter how many guests you have and how many appetizer choices you prepare, you should plan out the total amount around the maximum number of guests you anticipate having. The standard rule is to serve four to six pieces for each person. Note, however, that if you are planning an evening event that does not provide a main course and only has an appetizer, you should prepare 10 to 15 pieces per person. The amount of time can also change this figure. For instance, if you plan on letting the appetizer course last for two hours or more, plan on guests eating around 10 pieces for every two hours. Divide the total number of pieces by the number of choices to determine how much to prepare of each appetizer. For instance, if you have 30 guests, you will need about 150 pieces per guest and roughly seven different selections. That means you'll need to prepare approximately two dozen (or more precisely, 21 to 22) pieces of each appetizer. Cook in advance. For any appetizers that need to be cooked or assembled, do as much of the actual preparation as early as possible. A day in advance is ideal. Appetizers that need to be served warm should be prepared early and rewarmed as guests start arriving. Do your cooking in an oven to make sure that the appetizers are crisp. Avoid cooking anything in the microwave, even when there are instructions on how to do so. The only appetizers you should avoid baking too far in advance are those that will become soggy after being refrigerated, like soufflés or meats coated in a crispy batter. Do as much preparation as you can earlier in the day, then bake the appetizer, planning just enough time for the baking to finish immediately before your first guest should arrive. Continue keeping these appetizers warm in the oven as the rest of your guests roll in. Create appealing displays. The appetizer selection should be visually appealing, but the way you arrange the appetizers also needs to catch the eye. Consider arranging the foods in a unique way or decorating the serving platter the foods will sit on. Use toothpicks and small plastic skewers to hold small complementary pieces of food together. You can even use thin pretzel sticks to accomplish the same purpose as long as you pair them with options that match well, like cheese and sliced meat. For appetizers that need to be contained inside small dishes, like pasta salads and fruit salads, choose a non-conventional dish to serve them in. Options include martini glasses, hollowed out orange peel shells, tea cups, and sterilized candle holders. Remember to decorate the platters, as well. Non-edible decorations can include doilies and decorative placemats. Edible decorations include green leaf lettuce, parsley, and edible flowers. Know when to serve the appetizers. Cold appetizers should be set out before the party actually starts. Hot appetizers should be brought out once most, if not all, of the guests have arrived. Serve the hot appetizers yourself, even if you have others to help you. Doing so will give you a chance to interact with your guests. Crispy appetizers and those with melted cheese should be served fresh from the oven. Other warm options, like cooked vegetable dishes, can usually be served at room temperature without affecting the quality. Serve some of the appetizers on trays. Cold appetizers that sit out the entire time can be placed on a table somewhere, but for hot appetizers served fresh, serve them on a large tray or platter. Serving foods on a tray makes it easier for you to take the appetizers around to each guest at your party, giving you the chance to mingle while fulfilling your duties as a hostess. Trays also make it easier to refill appetizers in the kitchen once your guests go through a batch of them. If you do not have a serving tray, you could improvise by using something like a decorating baking sheet or cutting board. Clear room around the simple appetizers. Some appetizers, especially the cold ones, can be kept out on display for people to pick at. Among these selections, your guests are more likely to crowd around the simple choices, so you should keep a little extra space around them to prevent the area from getting too crowded. Simple choices that do not require any assembly by the guests and are easy to grab are often more popular. In contrast, people eat less when they have to put an appetizer together themselves, for instance, build-your-own finger sandwiches. Set drinks out as well. Your guests will need something to drink as they munch on appetizers. Set up a separate beverage table where they can get what they need. Bowls of punch are a common option, but they may not be the most practical. Guests who are already juggling plates of appetizers may struggle to pour themselves a drink. A better option would be to set out pre-measured beverages. Depending on the nature of your party, light cocktails could be appropriate, or you might still prefer a non-alcoholic punch. If you're concerned about making sure that your guests have enough to drink, set out enough prepared drinks for every guest to grab at least one. Place a punch bowl or pitcher behind the prepared drinks for anyone who wants a refill.
Vary the number of selections based on the number of guests. Pick from multiple appetizer families. Complement the main course. Consider the aesthetics. Include at least one convenience item. Prepare enough for your guests. Cook in advance. Create appealing displays. Know when to serve the appetizers. Serve some of the appetizers on trays. Clear room around the simple appetizers. Set drinks out as well.
https://www.wikihow.com/Aid-Digestion-Naturally
How to Aid Digestion Naturally
One way you can aid your digestion naturally is by drinking a cup of homemade chamomile tea once a day to help relieve stomach pain and nausea. If you're not a tea drinker, chew on some fresh peppermint leaves since these can relieve stomach pain and bloating. To ease digestion in the long term, slow down as you eat and try to chew each bite of food at least 20 times before you swallow. This will help you avoid overeating, which puts a lot of stress on your digestive system. Exercise is also great for digestion, so incorporate cardio exercises like walking, running, and jogging into your schedule to increase blood flow to your intestines.
Eat whole grains, fruits, and vegetables so you have regular bowel movements. Your body can't digest fiber, but it does prevent constipation and makes it easier to pass stool. Opt for whole grains, brown rice, fruits, vegetables, beans, and unrefined oats since they have high fiber content. Aim to have around 20–40 grams of fiber daily to help keep your system regular. Look for snack foods and cereals fortified with fiber since they'll be healthier for you. You may also use fiber supplements, but they may not offer the same variety of nutrients as whole foods. Cut fatty, acidic, and fried foods from your diet to get rid of an upset stomach. Processed foods usually contain more fat or grease, which makes your body work harder during digestion. Rather than enjoying meals that have high fat content, look for lean or fat-free options instead. Try baking, grilling, or searing your food rather than frying it to help ease any pain you're feeling after you eat. Artificial sweeteners may also make you feel gassy, so try to remove them as much as you can from your diet. Try cooking your own meals at home since they'll usually be healthier than getting processed or fast food. Track what foods you eat with every meal and make note of how you feel a few hours afterward. Try eliminating foods that cause you digestive problems for a week to see if you start feeling better. Drink water throughout the day so you don’t get constipated. Try to have at least 8 glasses of water that are each around 8 fluid ounces (240 ml) every day. If you're unable to do that, have a glass of water with every meal at the very least. Additionally, limit how much caffeine you have since they may lead to heartburn and make you feel uncomfortable. Water makes it easier to pass stool and helps flush your system. Avoid carbonated drinks to get rid of gas and bloating. Do your best to avoid soda or other drinks that have carbonation because they'll add excess gas to your stomach. Instead, have water or flat beverages, such as juice or tea, so you don't feel any discomfort. Carbonation can also lead to belching and flatulence. Incorporate probiotics into your diet to break down food easier. Probiotics contain “friendly bacteria” that improve your digestion and help your body break down foods. Enjoy dairy-free yogurt to get probiotics naturally, or take a daily supplement to introduce the bacteria into your stomach. Keep using probiotics even when you start feeling better to maintain healthy levels of bacteria in your gut. You should start feeling the effects of probiotics after about 4 weeks. Other probiotic foods include kimchi and sauerkraut. Reduce the amount of dairy you eat if it causes gas or loose stools. Many people have an intolerance to lactose, which is the main chemical found in dairy products. If you get bloated or experience pain after having milk, cheese, sour cream, or other dairy products, cut the problem foods out of your diet as much as possible. If you start feeling better, keep limiting how often you have dairy since they may have caused your digestive issues. Look for dairy substitutes, such as soy, almond, or oat milk products instead. You may also buy lactose-free varieties of dairy products to help manage your condition easier. Have 4–5 smaller meals throughout the day so you don’t overeat. Avoid having large meals or eating until you feel stuffed since your body will have trouble digesting. Instead, enjoy multiple meals during the day. Only eat enough food for your stomach to feel satisfied so you're less likely to experience bloating or cramps later on. Don’t eat for 3 hours before going to sleep. Avoid snacking or having large meals before you go to bed since it will be more difficult for you to fall asleep. Instead, try to relax or sip water if you start feeling hungry. Be careful not to drink too much though, or else you may wake up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom. Enjoy meals slowly to reduce the amount of air in your stomach. Swallowing air adds excess gas to your system, which can lead to belching or flatulence. When you take a bite of food, chew it completely to ensure you break it down thoroughly. Exhale through your nose before you swallow so there's less air mixed in. Avoid doing other things while you're eating since you may get distracted and eat faster. Go for a 15- or 20-minute walk after eating so food works through your system. Immediately after enjoying your meal, spend a little time going for a leisurely walk to help your food settle. Walk at a comfortable pace so you don't stress your body. Your walk should help excess gas escape from your stomach and make it easier for you to digest your food. Avoid lying down after you eat since you're more likely to get acid reflux. Exercise regularly so you don’t get constipated. Set aside about 30 minutes for 4–5 days each week so you can work out and stay physically active. You can do any exercises you want, but try at least walking or jogging to help work food through your body. As long as you maintain a regular routine, you won't feel as much constipation or discomfort from your meals. Practice stress-relieving techniques so your body processes food easier. Stress and anxiety can either slow down or speed up digestion, so it can affect how your body reacts to your meals. Take a deep breath and do your best to stay calm so you're less likely to experience any digestive issues. Try doing meditation or practicing yoga whenever you start feeling stressed to combat your symptoms. Avoid having food if you feel stressed or anxious since you may overeat. Stop or reduce smoking and drinking to limit acid reflux. When you smoke, you also swallow air and add gas to your stomach. Try to cut back on smoking of any kind so your body stays healthier. Additionally, alcohol can limit how your organs function and cause stomach acid to build up, so be sure to drink in moderation. Have a glass of water for every alcoholic drink you have to help flush it out of your system faster. Eat ginger if you suffer from nausea. You can have fresh ginger, or you may use a powder or supplement if it's easier for you. No matter what type of ginger you take, use less than 1,500 milligrams daily to maintain healthy levels. Keep taking the ginger as long as you feel nauseous to help relieve your symptoms. You can buy ginger powder or supplements from your local pharmacy. Ginger has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which soothe your throat and stomach muscles so you don't feel as much discomfort. Drink chamomile tea to soothe an uneasy stomach. Steep a bag of chamomile tea in a mug of hot water for the amount of time listed on the package. Slowly sip the tea while it's still hot to help calm your stomach so you don't feel as much pain. Have up to 5 cups of the tea daily to improve your digestive health and immune system. You can buy chamomile tea from your local grocery store. Chamomile has antioxidants that promote healing and anti-inflammatories that relax stomach muscles. This helps you feel less discomfort from gas, diarrhea, irritation, and ulcers. Use honey to fight against diarrhea. Honey contains helpful bacteria and works as a natural anti-inflammatory, so it may work to help an upset stomach. Try to have 0.07 ounces (2.0 g) of honey for every 2.2 pounds (1.00 kg) of your body weight. Eat your honey right after having diarrhea and continue using it until your symptoms go away. Opt for organic honey rather than processed or refined varieties since they'll be more effective. Take basil supplements to get rid of heartburn and acid reflux. Basil acts as an anti-inflammatory, so it relaxes the muscles in your stomach and throat and keeps acid from coming up. Opt for basil supplements and follow the instructions listed on the package so you take the appropriate daily dose. You can safely take basil daily for up to 6 weeks. You may also try incorporating fresh basil leaves into your diet to get its benefits. Manage irritable bowel syndrome with peppermint oil. Choose capsules of peppermint oil since they'll be easier for you to swallow and digest. Take up to 1,200 mg of peppermint oil each day. Whenever you feel bloated, nauseous, or gassy, try taking a capsule to alleviate your symptoms. Continue taking the capsules for up to 2 weeks. Peppermint oil may lead to heartburn. Peppermint has a natural relaxing effect and can help soothe muscles in your digestive system so you don't get cramps or experience symptoms of IBS. Take licorice extract to help ease pain from stomach cramps. Licorice extract has anti-inflammatory and analgesic compounds that improve mucus production in your digestive system, which can help soothe pain from digestion. Check your local pharmacy or drugstore to see if they carry any oral licorice supplements. You may take 760 mg to 15 g of licorice extract daily for at least 30 days without any side effects. Avoid taking licorice root if you're pregnant since it may harm the child's brain development. See your doctor if you have digestive issues for 2 weeks or more. In most cases, good self-care will keep your digestive system working well, but you may have a more serious condition if you experience frequent discomfort. Visit your doctor if you have any of the following symptoms for longer than 2 weeks: Abdominal pain Constipation or diarrhea Indigestion Heartburn Get immediate medical care if you develop serious digestive symptoms. While you don't need to worry, serious symptoms may be signs of an underlying condition. Explain what you're experiencing to your doctor so they can figure out what's causing your issues and get proper treatment. Try to make a same-day appointment or go to the emergency room if you have the following symptoms: A sudden change in your bowel movements Bleeding from your rectum Severe heartburn, indigestion, or stomach pain Trouble swallowing Unexpected weight loss Seek emergency care for persistent abdominal pain with chest pain. While abdominal pain and chest pain may be due to digestive issues or heartburn, these symptoms can also be a sign of a more serious condition, like a heart attack. Try not to worry, but visit the emergency room or call a medical provider for help to make sure that you're okay. You're probably just experiencing digestive upset. However, it's best to be safe and make sure everything is okay. Visit your doctor if you have gas that interferes with your daily life. Gas is a normal, healthy bodily function, but excessive gas could make you feel embarrassed or self-conscious. Consult with your doctor if you're regularly gassy and tell them what steps you've taken to relieve it. Listen to any recommendations they have to help improve your daily life. Your doctor can recommend additional lifestyle changes to help you feel better. Additionally, they may offer you treatments, if necessary. Talk to your doctor if you might have IBS. Irritable bowel syndrome is a chronic condition that can make you feel cramps, develop excess gas, and get diarrhea. Chat with your doctor to create a treatment plan to help you manage your condition. Then, follow any lifestyle changes they recommend to help you feel better. See your doctor if you have the following symptoms of IBS: Persistent abdominal cramps and pain that doesn't go away with bowel movements Excess gas Diarrhea or constipation Mucus in your stools
Eat whole grains, fruits, and vegetables so you have regular bowel movements. Cut fatty, acidic, and fried foods from your diet to get rid of an upset stomach. Drink water throughout the day so you don’t get constipated. Avoid carbonated drinks to get rid of gas and bloating. Incorporate probiotics into your diet to break down food easier. Reduce the amount of dairy you eat if it causes gas or loose stools. Have 4–5 smaller meals throughout the day so you don’t overeat. Don’t eat for 3 hours before going to sleep. Enjoy meals slowly to reduce the amount of air in your stomach. Go for a 15- or 20-minute walk after eating so food works through your system. Exercise regularly so you don’t get constipated. Practice stress-relieving techniques so your body processes food easier. Stop or reduce smoking and drinking to limit acid reflux. Eat ginger if you suffer from nausea. Drink chamomile tea to soothe an uneasy stomach. Use honey to fight against diarrhea. Take basil supplements to get rid of heartburn and acid reflux. Manage irritable bowel syndrome with peppermint oil. Take licorice extract to help ease pain from stomach cramps. See your doctor if you have digestive issues for 2 weeks or more. Get immediate medical care if you develop serious digestive symptoms. Seek emergency care for persistent abdominal pain with chest pain. Visit your doctor if you have gas that interferes with your daily life. Talk to your doctor if you might have IBS.
https://www.wikihow.com/Identify-a-Hornet
How to Identify a Hornet
To identify a hornet, examine the insect for 4 wings and 6 legs, a thin waist between the thorax and the abdomen, and a rounded abdomen. You can also look at the insect's head behind its eyes, which will be wider in a hornet than in a wasp. If you're close enough to examine the stinger, look for barbs, which indicate that the insect is a bee. Check for black-and-white coloring, as well, although there are some hornets with different coloring.
Observe a gray, oval-shaped object made of paper. While it's not actually paper, it is a paper-like substance made from hornet saliva and wood. The nest houses eggs and hornets are very protective of both their home and their eggs. Hence, you really don't want to be caught near their nest lest they consider you a danger. While it starts as a small, honeycomb-looking object, as the colony grows, the nest expands to an oval shape resembling a football, stalactite, or inverted teardrop. This means that just identifying the structure can help you narrow down your insect neighbors but does not determine exactly what type of insect they are. Paper wasps also use a paper-like building material but their nests have no paper envelope that covers and protects the nest. Look for the nest outside and up high in a covered area. Hornets build their nests in outdoor areas and usually high above ground, such as in trees, on a utility pole, or in thick shrubs. They will also build nests on the eaves of roofs and under decks. Often you won't see their nest until autumn when the leaves fall off and reveal the nest hidden within. By this time most of the hornets will be dead or dying, leaving only the queen to hibernate and live through the winter. In contrast, yellow jacket nests can often be found either close to the ground, underground, or inside any loose structure they can find, such as between the inner and outer walls of a house or even inside an old mattress. Some wasps that build nests high above the ground are incorrectly called hornets. The North American bald-faced hornet (Dolichovespula Maculata) is actually a species of wasp, as is the Australian hornet (Abispa ephippium), which is a subspecies of the potter wasp. Estimate the number. Hornet colonies can have as many as 700 members. If the nest is significantly larger, one you think contains thousands of members, odds are you are looking at a yellow jacket nest. So keeping a close eye – from a distance – is key to knowing whether they are hornets or yellow jackets. Whether the nest is small or large, the way to handle the nest is to call in professionals. These people will need to know how big the nest is so the more information you can give them the better equipped they will be to handle it. Observe distinguishing characteristics. A hornet, like a wasp, has a thin waist between the thorax and the abdomen. This physical trait is known as being "wasp-waisted." It distinguishes them from the bee family, which have thick waists between the thorax and abdomen. Look for black and white coloring. Unlike bees, which have a brownish-yellow and black coloring, and some other members of the wasp family, such as the yellow jacket and mud dauber, which have a bright yellow and black coloring, most hornets are black and white. Some species, however, such as the yellow hornet and the European hornet, are colored differently so it's important to also look at the insect's “waist.” Be aware of the size difference between a hornet and a wasp. One main difference between a hornet and a wasp, one that is easily recognizable either up close or at a distance, is size. For example, the only true hornet in the USA and Canada is the European hornet, which grows to be approximately 1-1.5 inches long. The maximum size for a paper wasp or yellow-jacket is 1-inch and usually, they are smaller than that. Hornets, like wasps, have six legs and two pairs of wings. Distinguish further hornet body characteristics. Unlike other members of the wasp family, the section of the abdomen closest to the thorax, called the gasters, is more rounded in a hornet than in other wasps. This makes it the first area to look when needing further clarification as to whether you are looking at a wasp or a hornet. Notice the wider width of the head behind the eyes. Called the vertex, this section is wider, in terms of the overall body size, in hornets than in other members of the wasp family. Look to see if the wings are folded down the length of their bodies. While some other members of the wasp family fold their wings down the length of their bodies when resting, it is another indicator to help you narrow down whether you are looking at a hornet or a wasp. Note the absence of barbs on the stinger. Bee stingers are barbed, causing them to tear out of the bee's abdomen when the target is stung, which also takes the bee's life. In contrast, hornets, like other members of the wasp family, have barbless stingers, allowing them to sting repeatedly without losing their stingers. While this helps differentiate between a hornet or wasp and a bee, if you're this close you may want to walk quietly away.
Observe a gray, oval-shaped object made of paper. Look for the nest outside and up high in a covered area. Estimate the number. Observe distinguishing characteristics. Look for black and white coloring. Be aware of the size difference between a hornet and a wasp. Distinguish further hornet body characteristics. Notice the wider width of the head behind the eyes. Look to see if the wings are folded down the length of their bodies. Note the absence of barbs on the stinger.
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-CPR-on-an-Adult
How to Do CPR on an Adult
If you need to do CPR on an adult, call emergency services right away. Once help is on the way, turn the person onto their back and make sure they're lying as flat as possible, then tilt their head back and check that their airway is not obstructed. Place the heel of one hand on the person's breastbone, about 2 finger-widths above where their lower ribs meet, then place your second hand on top of the first, palms-down, and interlock your fingers. Position your body directly over your hands so your arms are straight, and keep your elbows rigid. Press down with both hands to perform a compression. Continue performing 30 compressions in a relatively fast rhythm, and continue the process until help arrives.
Check the scene for immediate danger. Make sure you're not putting yourself in harm's way by administering CPR to someone unconscious. Is there a fire? Is the person lying on a roadway? Do whatever is necessary to move yourself and the other person to safety. If there is anything that could endanger you or the victim, see whether there is something you can do to counteract it. Open a window, turn off the stove, or put out the fire, if possible. However, if there is nothing you can do to counteract the danger, move the victim. The best way to move the victim is by placing a blanket or coat underneath their back and dragging it. Assess the victim's consciousness. Gently tap his or her shoulder and ask "Are you OK?" in a loud, clear voice. If he or she responds agreement "Yeah" or such, CPR is not required. Instead, undertake basic first aid and take measures to prevent or treat shock , and assess whether you need to contact emergency services. If the victim does not respond, rub their sternum or pinch their earlobe to see if they respond. If they still don't react, check for a pulse on their neck or under their thumb on the wrist. Send for help. The more people available for this step, the better. However, it can be done alone. Send someone to call for emergency medical services (EMS). If you're alone, call for emergency services before starting. To contact emergency services, call • 911 in North America • 000 in Australia • 112 by cell phone in the EU (including the UK) • 999 in the UK and Hong Kong. • 102 in India • 1122 in Pakistan • 111 in New Zealand • 123 in Egypt • 120 in China Give the dispatcher your location, and notify him or her that you're going to perform CPR. If you're alone, put your phone on speaker mode so your hands are free to start compressions. If you have someone else with you, do 2-man CPR and keep emergency services on speakerphone. Check for breathing. And, make sure that the airway is not blocked. If the mouth is closed, tilt their head back so it opens up. Remove any visible obstacle that is in your reach but never push your fingers too far inside. Put your ear close to the victim's nose and mouth, and listen for slight breathing. Watch for rising and falling of the chest. If the victim is coughing or breathing normally, do not perform CPR. Place the victim on his or her back. Make sure he or she is lying as flat as possible - this is to prevent injury while you're doing chest compressions.Tilt their head back by using your palm against their forehead and a push against their chin. Place the heel of one hand on the victim's breastbone, 2 finger-widths above the meeting area of the lower ribs, exactly between the normal position of the nipples. Place your second hand on top of the first hand, palms-down, interlock the fingers of the second hand between the first. Position your body directly over your hands so that your arms are straight and somewhat rigid. Don't flex the arms to push, but nearly lock your elbows, and use your upper body strength to push. Perform 30 chest compressions. Press down with both hands directly over the breastbone to perform a compression, which helps the heart beat. Chest compressions are more critical for correcting abnormal heart rhythms (ventricular fibrillation or pulseless ventricular tachycardia, heart rapidly quivering instead of beating). You should press down by about 2 inches (5 cm). Do the compressions in a relatively fast rhythm. Some agencies recommend doing compressions to the beat of the chorus of "Stayin' Alive," a 1970s disco hit. Give 2 rescue breaths. If you are trained in CPR and totally confident, give 2 rescue breaths after your 30 chest compressions. Tilt their head and lift their chin. Pinch their nostrils shut and administer 1-second breaths mouth-to-mouth. Make sure you breathe slowly, as this will make sure the air goes in the lungs. If the breath goes in, you should see the chest slightly rise and also feel it go in. Give a second rescue breath. If the breath does not go in, re-position the head and try again. Minimize pauses in chest compression that occur when changing providers or preparing for a shock. Attempt to limit interruptions to less than 10 seconds. Make sure the airway is open. Place your hand on the victim's forehead and two fingers on their chin and tilt the head back to open the airway. If you suspect a neck injury, pull the jaw forward rather than lifting the chin. If jaw thrust fails to open the airway, do a careful head tilt and chin lift. If there are no signs of life, place a breathing barrier (if available) over the victim's mouth. Repeat the cycle of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. If you're also doing rescue breaths, keep doing a cycle of 30 chest compressions, and then 2 rescue breaths; repeat the 30 compressions and 2 more breaths. Continue CPR until someone takes over for you or emergency personnel arrives. You should do CPR for 2 minutes (5 cycles of compressions to breaths) before spending time checking for a pulse or a rise and fall in the chest. Use an AED (automated external defibrillator). If an AED is available in the immediate area, use it as soon as possible to jump-start the victim's heart. Make sure there are no puddles or standing water in the immediate area. Turn on the AED. It should have voice prompts that tell you what to do. Fully expose the victim's chest. Remove any metal necklaces or underwire bras. Check for any body piercings, or evidence that the victim has a pacemaker or implantable cardioverter defibrillator to avoid shocking too close to those spots. These are usually marked with a medical bracelet, but may they may not have one. Make sure the chest is absolutely dry and the victim is not in a puddle. Note that, if the person has a lot of chest hair, you may need to shave it, if possible. Some AED kits come with razors for this purpose. Attach the sticky pads with electrodes to the victim's chest. Follow the instructions on the AED for placement. Move the pads at least 1 inch (2.5 cm) away from any metal piercings or implanted devices. Make sure no one is touching the person when you apply the shock. Loudly shout, “Stand back!” before administering the shock. Press analyze on the AED machine. If a shock is needed for the patient, the machine will notify you. If you do shock the victim, make sure no one is touching him or her. Do not remove pads from the victim and resume CPR for another 5 cycles before using the AED again. Stick on adhesive electrode pads are intended to be left in place. Position the patient only after the victim has been stabilized and is breathing on his/her own. Flex and raise one knee joint, push the victim`s hand that's on the opposite side from the raised knee, partially under the hip with the straight leg. Then position the free hand onto the opposite shoulder, and roll the victim onto the side with the straight leg. The raised knee/bent leg is on top and helps stop the body from rolling over onto the abdomen. The arm with the hand tucked under the edge of the hip is kept from sticking out in the way when rolling the patient onto that side. Use the recovery position to help the victim to breathe more easily. This position keeps saliva from accumulating in the back of the mouth or throat, and helps the tongue to hang to the side without it falling/flopping into the back of the mouth and obstructing the airway. This position is important for near drownings or overdose if there is a risk of vomit.
Check the scene for immediate danger. Assess the victim's consciousness. Send for help. Check for breathing. Place the victim on his or her back. Place the heel of one hand on the victim's breastbone, 2 finger-widths above the meeting area of the lower ribs, exactly between the normal position of the nipples. Place your second hand on top of the first hand, palms-down, interlock the fingers of the second hand between the first. Position your body directly over your hands so that your arms are straight and somewhat rigid. Perform 30 chest compressions. Give 2 rescue breaths. Minimize pauses in chest compression that occur when changing providers or preparing for a shock. Make sure the airway is open. Repeat the cycle of 30 chest compressions followed by 2 rescue breaths. Use an AED (automated external defibrillator). Turn on the AED. Fully expose the victim's chest. Attach the sticky pads with electrodes to the victim's chest. Press analyze on the AED machine. Do not remove pads from the victim and resume CPR for another 5 cycles before using the AED again. Position the patient only after the victim has been stabilized and is breathing on his/her own. Flex and raise one knee joint, push the victim`s hand that's on the opposite side from the raised knee, partially under the hip with the straight leg. Use the recovery position to help the victim to breathe more easily.
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Wood-Doors
How to Clean Wood Doors
It's relatively easy to keep the wood doors in your home looking clean and maintained with regular dusting and some soapy water. Dust the wood doors regularly to keep grime and cobwebs away. Use either a duster or a microfiber cloth to dust the entire door, paying special attention to any grooves and corners. Gently scrub the wood doors periodically with dish soap and hot water to remove any light dirt or grime. Combine a few drops of dish soap in a container of hot water and use a sponge or an old toothbrush to scrub the surface of the door. This prevents grime from building up over time. For tougher stains, use mineral spirits instead. Lightly dampen a cloth rag with mineral spirits and wipe the door down, going with the grain of the wood.
Dust away the cobwebs. Doors often get covered in layers of dust and cobwebs quickly – especially if they are in the corner or on an outside wall. Use a duster to periodically dust off your wood doors to keep the dust and cobwebs from building up over time. Try to dust your wood doors, especially in the grooves of the door, once every week or so to keep them looking nice. This will also help prevent larger stains from forming. This is especially important for exterior doors because it will help keep spiders and insects from congregating near the entrance to your home. Use a mild dish soap. For minor cleaning, you should be able to use a bit of mild dish soap mixed with hot water. Dip a nonabrasive sponge into the water and scrub the surface of your wood door. You can also use or a small brush (like a toothbrush) to get into corners and crevices in the door. When you finish, make sure you rinse all of the soapy residue away with hot water. Clean around the edges. Open the wood door and use a clean, damp cloth to wipe off the edges all around the door frame. You may need to rinse the cloth as you go to keep it clean enough to do the job, especially if there is significant buildup of dust or dirt. You can add a bit of mild dish soap to your damp rag if the dirt seems resistant to wiping. But be sure to clean off all of the soapy residue when you finish. Rub the surface with mineral spirits. Apply a few drops of mineral spirits to a clean, soft rag until the cloth feels damp. Wipe the surface of the wood door with the moistened rag, always going with the grain of the wood. This should work to help remove any dirt or grime buildup. Mineral spirits are also called paint thinner. You can purchase this product at any home improvement store. Wipe on some liquid furniture polish. Apply some liquid furniture polish on the surface of the wooden door and use a clean dish cloth to rub it into the grain of the wood. This will help remove any existing stains and restore the wood's natural sheen. This is especially important for use after applying mineral spirits to the wood. Use a steam cleaning machine. Get a steam cleaning machine with a hose attachment and add a tiny bit of soap to the bristles at the end. Spray the steam at the stains on the dirty wood and move it back and forth across the stained portions. The dirt should just disappear as you do this. Make sure you rinse off any soapy residue with a clean rag when you are done. You can rent steam cleaners from most grocery stores or carpet repair stores. Remove old paint or varnish. If your wood door has an old paint finish or other kind of varnish that you want to remove, there are a couple of options. You can sand the old varnish off – a very time consuming task. Or you can use chemical strippers to remove the layers of paint. Either option will work well, but remember that chemical stripping must be done in a ventilated area with proper precautions (like wearing a dust mask). There are several types of chemical strippers – liquid, brushable pastes, and wash away strippers. In any case, you apply the chemical stripper to the wooden door and let it sit until dry. Then you brush off the remnants (or rinse it off, depending on the kind of stripper you are using). This method is particularly effective for exterior wood doors. Let the wood dry thoroughly. When cleaning your wood doors with water or other liquid cleaners, make sure you let the wood dry thoroughly. If the wood isn't sealed properly, the moisture could cause the wood to warp or stain over time. Wipe any excess moisture off with a clean towel. You can also point a box fan at the wood door to help it dry more quickly. Re-stain the door periodically. It's important for your wood to have a protective seal on it to keep it safe from the elements and to help keep it clean after extended use. Wipe down the door thoroughly before you apply any finishing stain or paint. Choose a stain that is made specifically for indoor wood (unless this in an exterior wood door) and choose a color that suits your décor. You may need to sand down the door or scrape (and then sand) away any existing varnish that is chipping or flaking. Apply the stain or varnish and let it dry completely before you begin using it like normal again. If there is a glass window on your door, make sure you tape it off with painter's tape before you begin staining. Otherwise, you might get the glass dirty or accidentally paint it. Sanitize the fixtures. As you clean your door, be sure to periodically clean the fixtures as well. This means that you should take some time to thoroughly clean all door knobs. Use a regular all-purpose cleaner or a solution of vinegar and water to wipe down and sanitize both sides of the door knobs. The fixtures come into contact with the most bacteria, so it's important to address this when cleaning your wood doors.
Dust away the cobwebs. Use a mild dish soap. Clean around the edges. Rub the surface with mineral spirits. Wipe on some liquid furniture polish. Use a steam cleaning machine. Remove old paint or varnish. Let the wood dry thoroughly. Re-stain the door periodically. Sanitize the fixtures.
https://www.wikihow.health/Live-an-Organic-Lifestyle
How to Live an Organic Lifestyle
To live an organic lifestyle, buy foods that are certified organic, which means they haven't been treated with a lot of different chemicals. You can also live organically by using environmentally friendly products, like white vinegar or baking soda instead of commercial cleaning products. In order to further reduce your carbon footprint, look for alternative modes of transportation, like the bus, carpooling, biking, or walking.
Purchase organic foods. Eating organic foods is good for the environment, but it also improves your health. Eating foods that are not organic means that you are ingesting lots of different chemicals, which can build up in your body. Not only that, but organic foods are usually more nutritious and taste better. Look for eggs that are, at a minimum, certified organic. This means that the birds were not fed any type of hormones or antibiotics. However, if you are also concerned for the welfare of the animals, look for eggs that are “certified humane raised and handled” or at least “free range.” This means that the birds are not kept in tiny cages their whole lives, and are given at least some opportunity to go outside and live like normal chickens. Choose meats and dairy products that are certified organic. This means that the animals are not given any synthetic hormones or antibiotics meant to speed their trip to the slaughterhouse and keep them from getting sick in their inhumane living conditions. These chemicals are often able to survive the cooking process and end up in your body. Buy locally. Depending on where you live, this may limit some of the fruits and vegetables you have access to, but buying locally supports your local economy and it also reduces green house gasses by eliminating the need to transport your food from far away countries. The best way to find local products is to visit your local farmer's market. If you don't have a farmer's market in your area, look for small organic shops around where you live as these usually source local products. Another option, that is becoming more popular, are fruit and vegetable boxes delivered to your door. These boxes are available in many areas and contain fresh fruits and vegetables, usually from local farmers. A great thing about this is that it will encourage you to try out fruits and vegetables you maybe wouldn't have otherwise tried. Be aware though, that just because you bought something at a farmer's market or because it came out of a veggie box doesn't mean it is organic. Before purchasing anything ask the person you are buying something from where it came from and what products were used to grow it. Organic food should be grown without the use of fertilizers or pesticides. When it comes to meat and eggs, you can look for small farms in your area, some of which may be able to sell you fresh meat and eggs directly from the farm. Make sure to ask them about how the animals are raised and whether they are fed any antibiotics or hormones. Make your own meals. While more and more organic restaurants are popping up, you can never be sure where the ingredients on your plate have come from unless you have purchased and prepared them yourself. If you really want to live a completely organic lifestyle, avoid eating out as much as possible. That's not to say you can never ever eat out again as long as you live. You can, but try to limit this to special occasions. When you do eat out, try to choose places that promote the use of organic ingredients. Research the restaurant before you go there to make sure they actually practice what they preach. Consider starting your own organic garden. One way to reduce the amount of waste you produce (e.g. through plastic bags and other packaging that your organic groceries may come in) is by growing some of your own vegetables. Starting up an organic garden will save you money because you will only have to purchase the basic supplies to start a garden (mainly seeds) and it will give you many great fruits and vegetables that will keep you healthy. Gardening is also a great hobby. Many people find it very relaxing and rewarding. A 4x4 foot bed will be able to grow all the vegetables that one person can eat, and even small window boxes can grow a few herbs or vegetables to supplement your meals. Look for environmentally friendly cleaning products. Unfortunately, there is nothing specific that makes a cleaning product “organic”, and the more natural products will often be more expensive than the more traditional cleaning products. However, if you want to choose safer cleaning products look for products that don't include phosphates and phthalates. Be wary of green-washing. Green-washing refers to marketing campaigns that attempt to convince consumers that their products are environmentally friendly, natural, or green. In many cases, this is not really the truth. Many “green” cleaners include palm oil. Palm oil has a huge and very negative impact on the environment as palm oil plantations take over habitats and displace wild animals. Check for palm oil in the list of ingredients. You can also stick to natural cleaning and disinfectant products. For example, baking soda, lemon juice, salt, and white vinegar can all be used to clean many parts of your home just as effectively and much more safely than some of the better known products. Choose hygiene and beauty products wisely. In the cosmetics industry, the terms “organic” and “natural” are not regulated the way they are in the food industry. Thus, at present, there isn't really a good way to know whether or not the products you are using are organic. However, the Environmental Working Group (EWG) offers a website which allows you to read about the safety and environmental impact of products you are using for a small fee. However, you can also look for products that are made up of mostly natural ingredients. For example, soaps that are made up of pure essential oils or other natural oils such as jojoba, olive or coconut oil. Purchase used clothing. Many thrift stores sell clothing that has barely been worn, and you can find great deals there too. Wearing second-hand clothing is a great way to reduce your impact on the environment. Shopping at thrift stores can be a different experience than shopping at a big name store. Know what you're looking for when you go, and be prepared for a different experience. If you can't stomach the idea of wearing used clothing, at least try to look for brands that use organic materials. As people become more aware of the environmental costs of our lifestyles, more and more organic clothing stores are popping up. If you can't find any in your city, try searching online. Drive a fuel-efficient car. You don't necessarily have to own a hybrid, but do consider switching to a car with better gas mileage. Even if you get excellent gas mileage, try to avoid unnecessary trips. Combine your errands so that you travel as little as possible in your car. If you don't need to drive very often consider selling your car and signing up for a car sharing program. These programs allow you to use a car in the area whenever you need for a small fee. If you only need to drive once or twice a month this will save you tons on car maintenance fees and insurance, and will also save you the hassle of trying to find somewhere to park your own car. Look for alternative methods of transportation. Is the place you want to go within walking distance or can you ride a bike there? While driving remains the most popular way to get around in countries such as the US, walking or riding your bike offers a great way to get outside and get some fresh air while also accomplishing other things, such as food shopping. Your own two feet offer the most organic way to get around. Walking doesn't require any special equipment and it helps you stay healthy. Take public transportation. Although the US is far behind many other countries when it comes to public transport, some cities are trying to improve options for taking public transportation. Look into what your city offers. For places you go often, see if there is a bus route that you can use instead of driving. In a place such as the US, where public transportation is, in most places, not the norm don't be afraid to go against the grain. People may find it funny that you take the bus to the grocery store when everyone else drives, but hopefully you can inspire others to try out the public transport in your city by setting an example.
Purchase organic foods. Buy locally. Make your own meals. Consider starting your own organic garden. Look for environmentally friendly cleaning products. Choose hygiene and beauty products wisely. Purchase used clothing. Drive a fuel-efficient car. Look for alternative methods of transportation. Take public transportation.
https://www.wikihow.com/Treat-Gout
How to Treat Gout
To treat a gout attack, try holding an ice pack over the affected area for 15 minutes at a time to reduce the pain and swelling. However, make sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth or towel since putting it directly on your skin can cause damage. Additionally, elevate the joint if you can to help reduce the pain and inflammation. You may also want to try taking a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug such as Advil, but make sure to speak with your doctor about the possible side effects before doing so.
Understand the symptoms of gout. Caused by an excess buildup of uric acid , gout's symptoms may vary significantly from patient to patient, including development of chronic gout instead of isolated episodes. By and large, however, gout's symptoms include: Warmth, pain, redness, and swelling in a joint of a limb, usually a big toe in the foot, although it often develops in the ankle or knee. Pain that starts during the night and maintains an almost unbearable intensity. Peeling or itchiness in the skin around the affected joint(s). Know the goals of treating gout. Gout comes with several different side-effects and symptoms. Treating gout often involves understanding how to treat the different possible aspects of the condition: End the pain of acute flares. Prevent future attacks. Halt the formation of tophi (masses of urate crystals deposited in soft tissue). Intercept the growth of kidney stones. Know what causes and aggravates gout. An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Gout can be triggered and/or aggravated by a number of different factors: Gout can be triggered by: Dehydration Heavy eating Heavy alcohol consumption Injury or recent trauma Gout can be aggravated by: Obesity and weight gain Alcohol consumption High blood pressure (hypertension) High-fructose corn syrup Certain medications Ice the area for 15 minutes at a time. You can reapply the ice pack several times a day, as long as you rest your skin between applications. Wrap your ice in a towel or put a layer of fabric in between your skin and the ice. The ice can help relieve pain and swelling. Don't put ice directly against your skin, as it can cause damage. Immobilize the joints of the limbs where the gout is bothering you. Elevate the joint, if you can. This should reduce the pain and inflammation of the joints. Give yourself time to rest and recover. Avoid putting weight on the joint. Take NSAIDs after talking to your doctor. NSAIDs stands for non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and they refer to common household and prescription items such as ibuprofen, naproxen, or indomethacin. NSAIDs decrease pain and reduce inflammation. Don't take any medications without first talking to your doctor. Follow all instructions on the label. Ask your doctor if colchicine is right for you. Colchicine is a medicine in tablet form that blocks inflammation caused by uric acid crystals. Colchicine may also be beneficial in reducing the pain associated with gout for those patients who cannot take NSAIDs, although it can be taken in combination with NSAIDs. There is some evidence to suggest that taking colchicine may reduce the chances of future gout attacks. Colchicine is best for attacks with an onset shorter than 36 hours. You should not take colchicine if you've already taken it in the last 14 days for another acute attack. Take corticosteroids for gout. Corticosteroids for gout reduce many of the symptoms associated with gout, including pain, redness, and swelling. Corticosteroids should be used when: You're dealing with gout in a single joint You're dealing with a gout attack that does not respond to NSAIDs Your medical history precludes you from taking colchicine or NSAIDS such as naxopren Ask your doctor for a treatment regimen for your gout attacks. If you suspect that you're dealing with the redness, swelling, and pain of a gout attack, talk with your doctor about following a regimen when an attack of gout disables you. Your doctor will have a list of activities that you can follow and medications that you can take. Begin taking a medicine that reduces levels of uric acid in your blood. See your doctor about reducing your uric acid by taking certain medicines. These medicines may include: Urate lowering agents. Urate lowering agents can include febuxostat, allopurinol, or probenecid. These medications are commonly prescribed to help manage gout. Uricosuric agents. Uricosuric agents basically supercharge the kidneys, which in turn help remove excess uric acid. Uricosuric agents have adequate results for about 75% of patients. Uricosuric agents have adequate results for about 75% of patients. Xanthine oxidase inhibitors. These types of medicines basically keep a chemical called xanthine oxidase from forming. Xanthine oxidase is instrumental in helping uric acid buildup. Watch your weight and get more exercise. Exercise will help you to lose weight as well as help you deal with the pain that comes with arthritis. 30 minutes a day is all it takes to see improvement. Light walking, aerobic exercise, or strength training can help you deal with long-term care of gout. Watch what you drink. Alcohol, but especially beer, blocks the release of uric acid into your urine, causing it to get bottlenecked in your body. Beer, especially, contains a lot of purines, which are broken down into uric acid eventually. Drink at least 3 litres (0.79 US gal) of fluids each day. It's best to stick to water. Add slices of oranges, lemons, or cucumbers to your water for a little flavoring. You can also drink tea or coffee. Alternatively, eat watery foods, such as soups, fruits, and vegetables. Coffee actually helps lower your uric acid levels, so it can be a great option for managing your gout. Talk to your doctor about the medications you're currently taking. Some medication that you are currently taking may interfere with the medications you're using to treat gout, in addition to affecting the amount of uric acid your body produces. Talk to your doctor about any adverse pharmacological interactions you might be experiencing. Protect your joints. Avoid joint injuries and repetitive movements that can aggravate afflicted joints. Walk or run on softer surfaces (artificial track or sand, for example) instead of concrete. Stay away from high-risk problem-foods associated with gout. Foods that are at high-risk to worsening your gout contain purines. Purines raise uric acid levels in your body, causing the painful joint inflammation. Foods that are especially high in purines include: Animal organs such as liver, kidney, sweetbreads, and brains Meats, especially red meats, such as bacon, beef, lamb, and other gamey meats Anchovies, sardines, scallops, mackerel and herring Gravy Beer Limit your intake of food with a moderate amount of purines. Foods that should be consumed with caution and moderation include: Seafood and fish (other than high-purine seafood) Oatmeal Enjoy the foods that are especially low in purines. The following foods can be eaten without worrying about their effect on your uric acid buildup: Green, leafy vegetables Fruits and fruit juices Processed (non-whole grain) breads and cereals Chocolate and cocoa Butter, buttermilk, eggs, and cheese Beverages like coffee, tea, and carbonated sodas Nuts and assorted nut butters Consider eating foods that reportedly help your gout. Foods that are low in purines don't necessarily help your gout. (Neither do they hurt.) The following foods may actually help you on your quest to stay symptom-free: Nonfat or low-fat milk Low-fat yogurt
Understand the symptoms of gout. Know the goals of treating gout. Know what causes and aggravates gout. Ice the area for 15 minutes at a time. Immobilize the joints of the limbs where the gout is bothering you. Take NSAIDs after talking to your doctor. Ask your doctor if colchicine is right for you. Take corticosteroids for gout. Ask your doctor for a treatment regimen for your gout attacks. Begin taking a medicine that reduces levels of uric acid in your blood. Watch your weight and get more exercise. Watch what you drink. Drink at least 3 litres (0.79 US gal) of fluids each day. Talk to your doctor about the medications you're currently taking. Protect your joints. Stay away from high-risk problem-foods associated with gout. Limit your intake of food with a moderate amount of purines. Enjoy the foods that are especially low in purines. Consider eating foods that reportedly help your gout.
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Stains-from-Paper
How to Remove Stains from Paper
To remove water-based stains from paper, start by mopping up as much of the liquid as possible by dabbing it with a dry, folded paper towel. Once the liquid is absorbed, spread the page onto a clean, dry surface and hold the corners down with a paperweight or rock. Then, moisten a clean paper towel and dab at the stain to lift the discoloration. If the stain persists, mix ½ cup vinegar with ½ cup water, dip a cotton ball into the solution, and gently blot the stain.
Act quickly. This is the most important step for proper stain removal. The faster you begin cleanup, the better your results will be. Stains left alone for a long time begin to "set," becoming harder to remove. If a stain has dried and set in a valuable or irreplaceable item, restoration is still possible! However, the methods are fairly complicated and possibly dangerous to the inexperienced. If the methods outlined here are not enough, consult a professional archivist. Assess the damage. Is your item salvageable? Stain removal is typically reserved for relatively small areas of discoloration. You can clean a splash of tea, but nothing can be realistically done for a paperback soaked by a whole pot. Determine what kind of stain you have. Before you do anything, keep in mind the type of substance on the paper. The type of stain will determine your method of cleanup. This article explains how to take care of the three most common stains: Water-based stains: This group is probably the most likely. It includes most types of beverages, including coffee, tea, and soda. These liquids act as a sort of dye, leaving pigment behind as a stain once dried. Oil or grease stains: As their name suggests, these are stains caused by oils, such as those used in cooking. These stains are generally more difficult to remove than water based stains, as grease leaves behind oily clear spots in paper. Blood stains: Whether from a paper cut or a nose bleed, blood can often find its way onto a book. While blood is technically water based, special consideration during cleanup must be made to prevent a permanent yellow stain. Mop up as much of the staining liquid as you can with a dry, folded paper towel. If the towel soaks through, use a fresh one to mop up the rest. Careful dabbing will minimize the size of the stain by not spreading the liquid around. Press lightly up and down with care so as to not damage the paper. Wipe down and dry a waterproof surface and spread the page onto it. Be absolutely sure your work area is clean or you will have a second stain to remove! Hold the paper down at two or more corners with clean, waterproof objects. This step is to minimize the possibility of wrinkling the page. Moisten a clean paper towel and once again carefully dab the stain. Repeat this with fresh paper towels until you stop seeing color come off onto the towel. With water based stains that haven't been left to dry, most pigment will be removed using just this method. If your stain persists, move on to the next step. Prepare a dilute vinegar solution. In a bowl, mix a half cup of white vinegar with half a cup of water. Most other types of vinegar will themselves stain paper, so be sure the vinegar you use is completely clear. This step should be done away from the paper to avoid spills and further damage. Moisten a cotton ball with the solution and carefully dab a small word on the document. Check to see if any ink has come off onto the cotton ball. Some printing methods produce ink that will not run, but others will. In case it does, be sure to select the smallest, least conspicuous part of the paper to test. If ink has come off of the document, further attempts at removing the stain may ruin your paper. If the cotton ball is clear, proceed to the next step. Dab the cotton ball on the stain. Any remaining pigment should be dissolved by the vinegar and be lifted from the page. If the stain was large or dark, you may have to repeat this step with a fresh soaked cotton ball as the first becomes dirty. Using fresh cotton balls ensures you don't inadvertently spread the stain across the page. Dab the area where the stain once was with a dry paper towel. Allow the paper to air dry. If the item you just cleaned was the page of a book, leave the book open to that page. Use weights to hold down paper towels on the pages on either side of the freshly cleaned page. Soak up any excess oil with a paper towel. As with water-based stains, do this as quickly as possible. Oil stains generally don't set in the same way that water-based stains do, but they can still spread quickly. Wash your hands before moving to the next step to make sure they are free of oil. Fold a paper towel so that it is at least two sheets thick and wider than the stain. Place the towel on a clean, hard surface. Make sure to pick a surface that won't be damaged by the oil just in case it soaks through the paper. The best places for this are the kitchen counter, a glass table, or a metal workbench. Avoid wood furniture. Place the paper on top of the paper towel. Make sure that the stain is over the paper towel. It is best to center the stain so that there is roughly an inch of paper towel also covering the clean part of the page on all sides. The extra space is there in case the stain spreads a little over time. Fold a second paper towel and place it over the stain. As with the first paper towel, make sure it is at least two sheets thick. Again, make sure the paper towel is around one inch wider than the stain on all sides. This is especially important to avoid getting oil on the object in the next step. Put a heavy book on top of the second paper towel. The best books to use are hardcover textbooks and dictionaries. Any flat, heavy object may be used instead of a book. If the stain was inside of a book, close the book with the paper towels inside and place a second book on top. Remove the book after a few days. The stain may be completely removed at this point. If the stain is still visible, try replacing the paper towels and put the book back on the paper for another night. If any oil still remains, proceed to the next step. Place enough baking soda onto the paper so that it completely covers the stain and leave overnight. The baking soda should be in a relatively tall pile. If you can still see the paper through the baking soda, add more! Other non-staining absorbent powders will also work for this step. Remove the baking soda and check the stain. Repeat Steps 7-8 with fresh baking soda until the stain is completely gone. If after a few tries the stain is still visible, you may need to take your paper to a professional restorer. However, keep in mind their services will most likely be expensive. Soak up as much blood as possible with a clean, dry cotton ball or a paper towel. If the stain is not your own blood, exercise caution and use gloves for this and all subsequent steps. Some bloodborne pathogens can remain infectious for days outside the body. Dispose of all soiled cleaning supplies with care. Moisten a cotton ball with cold water and carefully dab at the stain just enough to wet the area. If possible, chill the water in a bowl with ice cubes. Never use warm or hot water to clean blood! If you do, the heat may set the stain and make it permanent. Mop up the moistened stain with a dry cotton ball. Carefully dab the area until dry. Tamp gently up and down. Do not dab at a dry stain, as that may damage the paper. Repeat Steps 2-3 until blood fails to come off the paper onto the cotton ball. This will likely need to be done a few times. If the stain was fresh, this may be all that's necessary to remove the stain. If the stain persists, go on to the next step. Buy 3% hydrogen peroxide solution. Repeat steps 2-3 using hydrogen peroxide instead of water. Repeat as necessary. Do not be tempted to use bleach on a blood stain! Bleach can break down the proteins found in blood, leaving behind an unsightly yellow mark.
Act quickly. Assess the damage. Determine what kind of stain you have. Mop up as much of the staining liquid as you can with a dry, folded paper towel. Wipe down and dry a waterproof surface and spread the page onto it. Moisten a clean paper towel and once again carefully dab the stain. Prepare a dilute vinegar solution. Moisten a cotton ball with the solution and carefully dab a small word on the document. Dab the cotton ball on the stain. Dab the area where the stain once was with a dry paper towel. Soak up any excess oil with a paper towel. Fold a paper towel so that it is at least two sheets thick and wider than the stain. Place the paper on top of the paper towel. Fold a second paper towel and place it over the stain. Put a heavy book on top of the second paper towel. Remove the book after a few days. Place enough baking soda onto the paper so that it completely covers the stain and leave overnight. Remove the baking soda and check the stain. Soak up as much blood as possible with a clean, dry cotton ball or a paper towel. Moisten a cotton ball with cold water and carefully dab at the stain just enough to wet the area. Mop up the moistened stain with a dry cotton ball. Repeat Steps 2-3 until blood fails to come off the paper onto the cotton ball. Buy 3% hydrogen peroxide solution.
https://www.wikihow.com/Store-Champagne
How to Store Champagne
To store champagne that hasn't been opened yet, keep it in the refrigerator for up to 1 month. If the champagne is already open, you can store it in the fridge for up to 5 days. To store champagne long-term, keep it in a humid, insulated room where it won't be exposed to sunlight. Also, keep the temperature in the room between 55 to 59 °F to preserve the champagne's taste and texture. In these conditions, you can store your champagne for up to 10 years!
Store your champagne in a cool area. Long-term champagne storage solutions demand a temperature of around 55 °F (13 °C). However, most temperatures that are above freezing and below room temperature will work fine for short-term storage. If you'd like, you can use your refrigerator as a short-term storage container. However, do not store your bottles in a freezer under any circumstance. Keep your champagne away from sunlight. Sun rays can alter your champagne's internal temperature, changing the drink's chemical makeup in unpleasant ways. To avoid this, place your champagne bottles in a shaded area with little to no direct sunlight or, if possible, a completely enclosed storage container with no light exposure whatsoever. If you can't find a shaded area, cover your bottles with thin, dark-colored fabric. Set your bottles on a flat, sturdy surface. To preserve your champagne's bubbly texture, keep your bottles on a solid surface where they'll experience as little motion and vibration as possible. For short-term storage, you can either place the bottles upright or lay them on their sides. Store your bottles for no more than 5 days if opened or 1 month if sealed. After opening a bottle of champagne, you can keep it for between 3 and 5 days by resealing it with a hinged bubble stopper or champagne sealer. When left unopened, your bottles should last for around 1 month. If you want to keep your bottles for longer, consider investing in a champagne storage room. Acquire a champagne storage rack or shelving unit. The device you use to store your champagne doesn't have to be fancy or pretty, it simply needs enough space to hold your bottles. For many, a general-purpose shelving unit will be more than good enough. However, you can buy a professionally-built champagne storage rack if you prefer. Look for metal or redwood champagne racks at wine shops, furniture stores, and home improvement stores. When purchasing shelving units, look for models built out of metal or redwood. Make sure the shelving material is at least 2 in (5.1 cm) thick so it can handle the weight of your bottles. Avoid free standing shelving units. Instead, look for models you can secure to the wall using nails or screws. Place your rack in a humid, insulated room. To create the best storage conditions possible for your champagne, place your rack in a room or closet that has enough insulation to protect it from extreme temperatures. So your drinks retain their bubbly texture, try to find a room that sits at around 50% humidity. Some houses come with wine cellars that are specially designed for drinks like champagne. Look for a room that has a hard floor and sturdy, vapor-resistant insulation that is at least 1.5 in (3.8 cm) thick. If you can't find a humid room to store your bottles in, or if your home's humidity fluctuates heavily throughout the year, consider purchasing a humidifier from a home improvement store. Lay your bottles flat on the rack. If you plan to store your champagne bottles for a long period of time, lay them out horizontally on your rack or shelf. Though you can store a champagne bottle upright for around 1 month, long-term vertical storage will dry out the bottle's cork, making it far more difficult to open. You do not need to leave any space between your bottles. Keep your bottles at about 55 °F (13 °C). To better preserve your champagne's taste and texture, keep your storage room at a constant temperature between about 50 and 59 °F (10 and 15 °C). If possible, install a thermostat or cooling unit in the room to give yourself more precise control over the temperature. Check your bottles once a week to make sure they're not too hot or too cold. Cover the room’s windows to keep sunlight out. Exposed windows let in sunlight that can raise the temperature of the room and change the chemical makeup of your champagne. To prevent this, cover any windows in your storage room with thick curtains that you can pin or tie together. If you'd prefer, consider tinting your windows instead. This will prevent sunlight from getting in while preserving the room's view. Store your champagne for up to 5 days if opened or 10 years if sealed. Unlike fine wine, champagnes have a short shelf life even when left unopened. As a general rule, non-vintage champagne lasts for 3 to 4 years from the day you purchase it while vintage champagne lasts between 5 and 10 years. Once opened, your champagne will stay fresh for 3 to 5 days. Vintage refers to any champagne made with the grapes of a single harvest year. Non-vintage refers to any champagne made with grapes from multiple harvest years. Cover opened champagne bottles with champagne sealers or hinged bubble stoppers to help them retain their texture. Cool champagne gradually using a refrigerator. Extreme temperature fluctuation can damage your champagne and make it less flavorful. To avoid this, chill your champagne in a refrigerator so it can grow cold gradually. This process should take about 4 hours, though some units may chill it at a faster or slower rate. Chill your bottle quickly using a bucket of ice. If you need to chill a bottle of champagne quickly, grab a bucket and fill it to the top with ice. Sprinkle the ice with rock salt to help it melt faster, then place your champagne bottle inside. This process should take between 10 and 25 minutes. Never chill a champagne bottle using a freezer. Doing so could ruin the flavor of the drink. Take your champagne out when it is about 48 °F (9 °C). To most people, champagne tastes best when served just below storage temperature. This is because colder temperatures make it harder to detect unique aromas while warmer temperatures make the drink appear heavy. Serving just below storage temperature also protects the champagne from extreme cold, preserving its overall taste and texture. To test your bottle's temperature without opening it, purchase a wine bottle thermometer. You can find these at wine and kitchen stores. Store opened, chilled champagne bottles in the fridge for up to 5 days. Once you've chilled and opened a champagne bottle, you can keep it in the fridge for anywhere between 3 and 5 days. To better preserve the drink's texture, cover it with a refrigerator-safe champagne sealer. Excessive vibrations can cause your champagne to lose its flavor, so store it on a shelf that is not used frequently. Place sealed, chilled champagne bottles back in your storage room. If you chilled a champagne bottle but did not open it, feel free to place it back inside your storage room for later use. When you first reintroduce it, let it warm up in a separate area so the chilled temperature doesn't affect your other bottles. Then, move it back to its original spot.
Store your champagne in a cool area. Keep your champagne away from sunlight. Set your bottles on a flat, sturdy surface. Store your bottles for no more than 5 days if opened or 1 month if sealed. Acquire a champagne storage rack or shelving unit. Place your rack in a humid, insulated room. Lay your bottles flat on the rack. Keep your bottles at about 55 °F (13 °C). Cover the room’s windows to keep sunlight out. Store your champagne for up to 5 days if opened or 10 years if sealed. Cool champagne gradually using a refrigerator. Chill your bottle quickly using a bucket of ice. Take your champagne out when it is about 48 °F (9 °C). Store opened, chilled champagne bottles in the fridge for up to 5 days. Place sealed, chilled champagne bottles back in your storage room.
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Newborns-to-Sleep
How to Get Newborns to Sleep
To get your newborn to sleep, try to help them feel comfortable and relaxed by changing their diaper and putting them in fresh pajamas before naps and bedtime. Since over or underdressing your baby can prevent it from sleeping soundly, make sure to dress it in clothes that are appropriate for the season. If you're not sure, touch their bare back to see if it's warm, not hot or cold, to the touch. You'll also want to nurse or bottle-feed your newborn right before putting them down so they don't wake up hungry as often. If your baby is still fussy, hold, cuddle, and rock them to help them feel safe and relaxed. In addition to addressing your baby's comfort, help them establish a natural routine by keeping the lights bright during the day and dim as you prepare your baby for sleep.
Change your baby’s diaper and put comfortable pajamas on them. If your baby has a wet diaper, then it will be hard for them to relax. Likewise, an uncomfortable outfit will also make it harder for your baby to sleep. Change your baby's diaper and put on their pajamas before you put them down for bedtime or a nap. A lightweight long-sleeve cotton shirt and a muslin sleep sack are good options for warmer weather, while a pair of fleece sleeper pajamas or a pair of long-sleeve cotton pajamas with a fleece sleep sack are good options for colder months. Newborns will have 2 to 3 wet diapers per day for the first few days, and then 5 to 6 wet diapers per day after that. Nurse or bottle-feed your baby. Your baby may have trouble falling asleep if they are hungry, so make sure to feed your baby before you put them down for a nap or bedtime. Also, keep in mind that newborns typically will not sleep through the night because they need to eat so frequently. Newborns need to eat often, about once every 2 to 3 hours. A newborn may only take in 0.5  fl oz (15 mL) of breast milk or formula per feeding in their first few days, but this amount will gradually increase and they will be drinking between 2 to 3  fl oz (59 to 89 mL) per feeding by around 2 weeks. Breast-fed babies need to feed about 8 to 12 times per day, or about every 2 to 3 hours. Bottle-fed babies need to feed about once every 3 to 4 hours. Check your baby’s skin temperature to determine if they are too hot or too cold. It is important to avoid over-dressing or over-bundling your baby, but your baby may also be underdressed. Touch your baby's bare skin under their clothes, such as on their back. Your baby's skin should feel warm, but not hot or cool to the touch. If your baby is sweaty or their skin feels hot, then they are likely overdressed. If your baby's skin feels cold, then they are likely too cold and need another layer or a warmer pair of pajamas. Hold, cuddle, and rock your baby to calm them if they are fussy. If your baby is crying despite making sure they are comfortable enough for sleep, they may be seeking comfort and affection from you. Pick up your baby, and then stand or sit and rock your baby. Keep in mind that you cannot “spoil” a newborn with too much love and affection! Holding your baby often may actually make them less fussy overall. Swaddle your newborn to help them feel more secure. Lay a swaddling blanket on a sturdy, flat surface so that it looks like a diamond. Fold the top corner of the diamond down and place your baby on the blanket with their head on the folded part. Bring 1 side of the blanket across your baby's body and tuck it under their armpit. Wrap the bottom end of the blanket up to your baby's other armpit and tuck it in. Wrap the remaining end of the blanket across your baby's arms and body and tuck it in. The blanket should be snug around your baby's body, but not tight. Your baby's face and neck should be visible. You can also purchase special swaddle wraps with Velcro flaps to make swaddling your baby quick and easy. Lay your baby down on their back in a bassinet or crib with only a fitted sheet. Do not use bulky bedding, pillows, or bumpers in your baby's bed. Keep stuffed animals and any other bulky items out of the bassinet or crib as well. These pose a hazard to your baby since they can lead to suffocation. Remember that the crib or bassinet is the safest place for your baby! Always put your baby in their crib or bassinet to sleep. Lay your baby on their back to sleep. Never place your newborn on their stomach or side because this increases the risk of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)! Don't let your newborn cry for more than a minute. If they are not settling down, then they likely need something. Pick up your baby, soothe them, check their diaper, and feed them if they are still hungry. Then, try putting your baby back in bed once they seem drowsy and ready to fall asleep again. Watch for signs that your baby is sleepy. The best time to put your baby down for a nap or for bed is when they are showing signs that they are sleepy. This will make it more likely that your baby will fall asleep. Some common signs of sleepiness in newborns include: Fussing Rubbing their eyes Pulling at their ears Keep the lights bright during the day and dim at night. Open up the curtains and blinds in the morning to let in natural daylight and turn on extra lights as needed. This will signal to your baby that it is daytime. Then, around bedtime and naptimes, close curtains and blinds and dim the lights to signal to your baby that it is time for sleeping. Avoid other stimulating activities when it is time for your baby to sleep as well, such as playing or talking. These activities will cause your baby to wake up and make it harder to get them sleeping. Put your baby in their crib or bassinet when they are sleepy but awake. Don't wait too long to put your baby in bed if they are showing signs that they are sleepy. Change your baby's diaper, feed your baby, and then put them into their crib or bassinet while they are sleepy, but still awake. This will give your baby a chance to fall asleep on their own. Allow your baby to nap as needed during the day. Newborns sleep for up to 19 hours per day. Trying to keep your baby awake for longer stretches will not help them to sleep for longer stretches at night. In fact, it is likely to make them fussier and make it harder for them to fall asleep. Instead, allow your newborn to nap as often as they want during the day. Dim the lights in your baby’s bedroom. Start your baby's bedtime routine by dimming the lights in the room where your baby sleeps, whether this is in a crib or bassinet in your bedroom or in your baby's nursery. Close the door, turn on a nightlight or dim lamp, close the curtain or blinds, and shut off any bright lights. Let other members of your household know that you will be putting your baby to bed or down for a nap so that they do not interrupt you. Read your baby a book. Getting into the habit of reading your baby a bedtime story is a great way to signal that it is time for sleep. Choose a bedtime classic, such as Goodnight Moon , and read it to your baby while you hold them. Repeat this every night before you put them in bed or before a nap. Even though your baby may not yet understand what you are saying, the sound of your voice will be soothing to them. Sing a song or play some soothing music for your baby. Singing to your baby or playing them some soothing music is another great way to help them settle in for the night or a nap. Try singing your baby a simple lullaby, such as “Rock-a-Bye Baby” or “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star.” You can play music for your baby using a musical mobile suspended from their crib or bassinet, or you can find lullaby music on Youtube that you can play for your baby. Just turn off the screen on your phone, or face your baby away from the screen on a TV or laptop so that the images do not distract them. Place your baby in bed and give them a kiss. After you lay your baby on their back in their bassinet, give them a kiss. Then, as long as your baby seems comfortable, quietly leave the room and stay nearby to listen. Your baby may drift off to sleep quickly, or they may cry for a few minutes before falling asleep. If you will be out of earshot of your baby, place a baby monitor in the room. Use the monitor to listen for your baby while you are in another part of the house. If your baby starts to cry or fuss, check on them and attend to their needs.
Change your baby’s diaper and put comfortable pajamas on them. Nurse or bottle-feed your baby. Check your baby’s skin temperature to determine if they are too hot or too cold. Hold, cuddle, and rock your baby to calm them if they are fussy. Swaddle your newborn to help them feel more secure. Lay your baby down on their back in a bassinet or crib with only a fitted sheet. Watch for signs that your baby is sleepy. Keep the lights bright during the day and dim at night. Put your baby in their crib or bassinet when they are sleepy but awake. Allow your baby to nap as needed during the day. Dim the lights in your baby’s bedroom. Read your baby a book. Sing a song or play some soothing music for your baby. Place your baby in bed and give them a kiss.
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Pink-Gums
How to Get Pink Gums
To get pink gums, brush your teeth at least twice a day with a toothpaste formulated for gum health. Avoid hard-bristled toothbrushes, which may damage your gums, and opt for soft to medium bristles for the best results. When you're brushing, keep your toothbrush at a 45 degree angle to your gum line and brush gently but firmly for at least 2 minutes. It's also important to gargle with mouthwash and floss at least once per day to keep your gums healthy and pink.
Choose the right toothpaste. You might be tempted to skimp on toothpaste, but if you want to improve your gum health, you would be wise to choose a toothpaste specifically designed for it. Pay a little extra and buy a toothpaste that is specially formulated for gum health. Use a good toothbrush. Always look for toothbrushes that have the American Dental Association's (ADA) seal of approval on the packaging. There are a surprising number of options you have to weigh when choosing a toothbrush. Should you use medium or soft bristles? A regular or electric toothbrush? Choose a brush size that's not too difficult to maneuver throughout your mouth. Avoid hard-bristled brushes, as they may actually damage your gums and cause gum recession. Soft to medium bristles are recommended. Some electric toothbrushes, such as Sonic toothbrushes, have a particular movement that's beneficial because it effectively separates bacteria from the tooth surface. Studies show that the only electric toothbrush significantly better than a regular brush is a “rotation oscillation toothbrush,” in which the bristles move in both a circular and a back and forth motion at the same time. Use proper brushing technique. You may think you're brushing well just because you're brushing at all, but there's a right way and a wrong way to brush your teeth. Keep the brush at a 45° angle to your gum line. Your stroke length should be roughly the length of one tooth. Use circular strokes for the chewing surfaces of your back teeth. Brush gently, but firmly. Applying too much pressure can strip the tooth of enamel and cause receding gums. Clean the interior surface of your teeth in an up-and-down motion. Remember to brush the surface of your tongue. Brush before meals at least twice a day. While the conventional wisdom is to brush after meals to remove food particles, dentists suggest you brush before meals, because they are concerned with plaque removal, not food removal. Brushing before meals actually avoids tooth and gum damage that can come from spreading and brushing acids from your meal around your mouth. Even if you adopt the practice of brushing before meals, brushing before you go to bed is still essential. Although twice a day is the bare minimum, it's recommended that you actually brush three times a day for optimal oral health. Brush for at least two minutes. Most people don't brush their teeth for long enough to truly protect their tooth and gum health. Split your mouth into four quadrants: upper left, upper right, bottom left, and bottom right. Brush each quadrant for at least thirty seconds to ensure you're brushing long enough, and hitting all parts of your mouth. Make sure you brush each tooth surface at least 10 times. Don’t brush too often or too vigorously. Brushing more than three times a day on a regular basis, or applying too much pressure when you brush can actually damage your gums and teeth. Dentists call this “toothbrush abrasion,” and it can result in both receding gums and enamel deterioration that can lead to sensitive teeth. The main cause is represented by the back and forth brushing with high pressure and rapid movements. If you're using an electric brush, let it do all the work. Don't apply extra pressure of your own. Replace your toothbrush regularly. Toothbrush bristles will wear down and become less effective with use. They can also be homes for all sorts of bacteria they find in your mouth, so you need to replace them from time to time. Dentists recommend replacing your toothbrush every three to four months, or when the bristles start spreading apart making each stroke cause more harm than good Use any type of floss. There are a wide variety of flosses in the dental aisle at the store, from nylon to monofilament, from flavorless to mint-flavored. There isn't a significant difference between any of these types of floss. Use whichever kind feels most comfortable for you. More important than what type of floss you use is that you actually use it regularly. Floss at least once a day. Flossing can be uncomfortable and sometimes gross, but dentists recommend it for a reason. Some say that flossing is actually more important than brushing for maintaining healthy teeth and gums. Whereas over-brushing can be damaging to your gums, over-flossing won't cause any harm. Flossing also prevents stains between your teeth. These are very difficult to remove even by the dentist. It doesn't matter when you floss — day or night, before or after meals. Just make sure you do it at least once a day. Use proper flossing technique. The ADA provides specific instructions on how to perfect your flossing technique. Use about 18 inches of floss, securing them to your fingers by winding them around the middle finger on each hand. Make sure not to cut off blood circulation to your fingertips. Unwind and rewind as necessary throughout the flossing process. Pinch the floss between your thumb and forefinger to stabilize. Use a back-and-forth sawing motion to ease the floss between your teeth, all the way up to the gum. Don't snap the floss up hard against your gums. This can be painful, and can cause gum damage over time. Curve the floss into a “C” shape against the side of the tooth. Gently and slowly move the floss up and down the length of the tooth. Insert the floss between the tooth surface and the prominent gum, called papilla. Floss every single tooth, including the hard-to-reach ones in the back of your mouth. Floss both sides of each tooth. Floss through the bleeding. If you're not a regular flosser, you'll probably see some blood on your floss when you start back up. Don't take this as a hint to stop flossing! Your gums are bleeding because you're not flossing! Continuing your daily flossing will help stop the bleeding over time and improve, not hurt, your gum health. Buy the right mouthwash. Mouthwash is an important product because you only target your teeth and gums through brushing and flossing. Mouthwash can treat the rest of your mouth — the cheeks, the tongue, and other exposed surfaces that need cleaning in order to maintain gum health. Choose a mouthwash that has the ADA's seal of approval on the packaging. Mouthwash can be seen as an oral disinfectant that eliminates a high percentage of the bacteria and plaque involved in cavities or any other dental and mucosal issues. Choose therapeutic mouthwash specially formatted for gum health over cosmetic mouthwash designed for temporary breath freshening. Avoid alcohol-based mouthwashes that can dry out the skin and cause lesions over time. Make your own mouthwash. Studies have suggested that turmeric is as good at treating gum disease like gingivitis as store-bought mouthwashes. Dissolve 10 mg of turmeric extract in 3.5 oz. of hot water. Let the water cool down to a comfortable temperature. Other natural alternatives to store-bought mouthwashes include cinnamon, fennel, ginger, lemon essential oil, tea tree oil, raw honey, and many others. Use proper mouth washing technique. Look at the packaging for specific instructions before proceeding, because mouthwashes with special formulas might have different recommendations for how long you should keep it in your mouth, or whether or not you should dilute the product. If the packaging says to dilute the product, follow their instructions for doing so. Use warm water. If you feel a burning sensation or the taste is too strong, dilute it further. Pour it into your mouth and swish it around your mouth vigorously for thirty to sixty seconds. Gargle the mouthwash in the back of your throat for another thirty to sixty seconds. Spit the mouthwash out into the sink. Rinse your mouth with water. Don’t use mouthwash immediately after brushing. Rinsing your mouth with mouthwash can actually undo some of the benefits of brushing your teeth. For best results, either use mouthwash before brushing your teeth, or at least half an hour after brushing your teeth. Make regular appointments with a dentist. Even if you're taking care of your oral hygiene very well at home, there are certain things — like removing plaque buildup — that simply can't be done at home. You must see a dentist with professional tools for this aspect of your gum and tooth health. How often you visit the dentist depends on your individual needs, but you should have your teeth and gums checked at least once a year. Your dentist will advise you on when you should return for your next checkup. Seek immediate attention if your condition requires it. There are many problems that could require professional attention, but the main symptoms for gum disease include: Swollen or red gums Bleeding beyond what is normal for early flossing Loose teeth Receding gums with pain or sensitivity Chronic bad breath or bad taste in the mouth Find a good dentist. The ADA provides a search tool for finding ADA-member dentists in your local area. They also recommend taking the following step for finding a reputable dentist in your area: Ask friends, family, and coworkers for recommendations Ask your doctor for a recommendation If you're moving, ask your current dentist or their staff to help you find a reputable dentist in your new area If you have special needs, such as gum disease, you may need to find a specialist, like a periodontist. Know which dentists are in your healthcare network. Visit your insurance company's website or call their helpline to find out which dentists will accept your insurance. If you have your heart set on a specific dentist, it will be easier to work with the dentist's office than with the insurance company, so ask the dentist to make an exception in taking you on as a patient. Find low-cost dentists in your area. If you don't have health insurance, or if your insurance does not cover dental exams, do some research to find the low-cost options that are available to you. The safest, most reputable option is to find a clinic that is affiliated with a dental school. These clinics often offer free services to children under 18, along with reduced-fee service for adults. Find the website for your state's dental association to locate a local dental school clinic.
Choose the right toothpaste. Use a good toothbrush. Use proper brushing technique. Brush before meals at least twice a day. Brush for at least two minutes. Don’t brush too often or too vigorously. Replace your toothbrush regularly. Use any type of floss. Floss at least once a day. Use proper flossing technique. Floss through the bleeding. Buy the right mouthwash. Make your own mouthwash. Use proper mouth washing technique. Don’t use mouthwash immediately after brushing. Make regular appointments with a dentist. Seek immediate attention if your condition requires it. Find a good dentist. Know which dentists are in your healthcare network. Find low-cost dentists in your area.
https://www.wikihow.com/Move-to-a-Foreign-Country
How to Move to a Foreign Country
To move to a foreign country, start by making sure your passport is up to date, and apply for a visa for that country as soon as possible. Then, find and set up a bank account that you can access from your new home country, but leave one old account open for a while to be safe. Next, donate or give away any stuff you don't need, since shipping to a different country is expensive. Finally, find a temporary place to live when you arrive, such as a hotel or apartment, so that you can get a feel for the area before buying a permanent home.
Make sure your passport is up to date and you have a visa that will allow you to move to a country. If there is a potential move, especially on short notice, make sure you are prepared for that eventuality. Everything that you can prepare ahead of time will be that much less that you have to prepare when the time comes. Problems with your visa may cause delays in your ability to go. Make sure your passport is current. If you need a new one, that is the first order of business. It can take several weeks to apply for and receive a new passport. Make a plan. Before all else, draw up a plan that can be checked off as things are done. This plan needs to be thorough and it should include deadlines. Here are some other considerations: Discussing the packing and shipping arrangements. Interview at least three different companies and get their quotes for the move. Find out what each company is prepared to do: specialized packing, dealing with your wine cellar (this can be problematic), helping with pets, timing guarantees, storage at the other end, etc. Also, discuss the possibility of storing possessions in your current country. If this move is short-term and you intend to return, it might be best to leave some—or even most—items behind. Deciding what to do with your current home if you own it. Are you going to sell it or rent it out? If selling, talk to a real estate agent and tell them about your plans. Ask yourself if you have time to wait for the best offer, or you need to sell quickly to get the money. Be careful how you convey this to your agent—you still want the best price, whatever your hurry. If renting it out, interview agents responsible for rental properties and be sure you are one hundred percent happy with their services. Ask for references and if possible, favor an agent used to renting out properties for overseas landlords—it's much harder to be an overseas landlord and much can go wrong in your absence if the agent fails to meet their basic obligations of checking the property regularly and vetting tenants properly. Dealing with mortgages, leases and loans. You will need to talk to your bank or other lenders about handling these financial obligations most effectively. Talking to your children's schools about the upcoming change. You will need evidence of your children's current level of schooling, as well as a guarantee of willingness to be emailed or phoned by the school in your new country, if relevant. Ask the guidance counselor about any transition issues you might find useful. Vaccinations and visas. Be sure that you are up-to-date with relevant vaccinations and obtain all visas. Sort out any accompanying documentation needed for a permanent or long-term move. If you're planning on renouncing your citizenship of your current country and taking on new citizenship, this will take considerable time, so start working on this from the beginning of your planning. Developing a timeline for packing. Follow this with dedication, as it can give you plenty of time to deal with things that go wrong—and they will! {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/161405-02b06.jpg\/v4-460px-161405-02b06.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/0\/0b\/161405-02b06.jpg\/aid161405-v4-728px-161405-02b06.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>"} Give adequate time. Some corporations and government entities that send their staffs overseas are quite happy to give anything from a few months to a few days notice that you are handpicked to move overseas. In this case, ask for as much help as they are willing to pay for—you will need it. If you do have the luxury of your own timeline, give yourself at least six months. You will need every moment of this time to tie up many loose ends, including dealing with your property, car, pets, insurance, packing, and shipping, banking, educational transitions and more. In some cases, you may not have this luxury. It is possible to move quickly, so if this has been thrust on you, try not to despair. However, do immediately spend time creating networks of helpers. You really need as many hands on deck as you can gather. Consider looking for accommodation in the new country as soon as possible. Will you stay in hotel or serviced apartment accommodation while looking for a place to buy or rent? Avoid buying a place over the internet. You could buy something terrible without noticing. You need to be on location to get a sense of the neighborhood, to see the dry rot at the base of the house, to realize that it is overpriced! One way around this is for you or one family member to do a forward visit, to check out real estate to see what's on offer and whether anything is a good deal. You may also know somebody in your new country who can be your eyes and ears. Even if you want to buy a house or apartment in the new country, it is recommended that you begin by renting. Renting gives you a quick out if you choose the wrong location or you simply do not like being in the new country. After at least six months, you will have a better idea of wanting to stay or not, plus a much better understanding of the real estate and preferred areas to live. This means less pressure for you and a greater likelihood of making the right decision. Be aware that you will initially be without your shipped goods. This makes living in a hotel or a serviced apartment initially a good choice. Get a good lawyer when dealing with purchase of property in another country. You will need someone on your side who understands all the taxes, fees, liens, caveats, etc that the country you're moving to has in store. Your current attorney may be able to give you a recommendation for an attorney in your new country. Set up banking accounts that work for you. It is becoming easier to transfer money between many countries without giving up too much in processing fees. Talk to your current bank to explore the options for setting up transfers—some banks even allow transfers to overseas accounts via cell phones, so look into all the options. Unless you are planning to never return to your current country, it is advisable to keep at least one bank account open in your current country. The longer you have an account open, the better your credit standing. When you do return, it is easier to start where you left off than to have to open new accounts. Internet banking makes it easier for you to monitor the account in the country you have left. In some countries, accessing money will be a lot harder than in others. Be sure to discuss the challenges and solutions with your bank and a reputable financial adviser with knowledgeable about the country that you are moving to. See if people you know are already living in the country. They can be an invaluable source of help if you need information, support, and connection. Let them know about your plans and it is likely that they will do what they can to ensure that you get the information you need. Do an honest evaluation of your goods and begin to let go. It is a reality that we need very little to live; despite that, our houses tend to be overstuffed with consumables we have accumulated over the years. We do not use or need many of those. Rather than dragging all this stuff with you, or paying to keep it in storage, do an honest appraisal of the need for keeping much of your belongings. Where possible, donate and give away the items you do not need. It is far better to travel light and not have to worry about items in storage than to burden yourself. Receive cash for your items. Use online auction sites ad-listing websites to get rid of your items. Even if you are pressed for time, this can be a great way to sell items in bulk, even whole roomfuls. Tell people that you are moving overseas and that it all has to go. People love to grab a bargain! Be ruthless. Every thing added means greater costs in shipping. Occasionally, shipping containers fall overboard, while damage can occur to goods at any stage of transit due to rough handling and other mishaps. Bear this in mind when lugging your antique collection of whatnots with you––it may be better to place in storage or to sell and have the cash. Become adequately insured for any mishaps during shipping. Consider all options for any pets that you may have. For some people, this means giving them to a friend or family member to care for. For others, it means taking them with you. If you are taking your pets with you, consider the following: Is your pet allowed in the country you are headed to? Will your pet undergo quarantine? For how long and at what cost? How will your pet travel? Find out about safety, costs, and all requirements, such as pet passports. How is your pet's health? Your pet needs to be thoroughly vaccinated and medically fit to travel. There may be other requirements of the country of destination too––check. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/161405-09b04.jpg\/v4-460px-161405-09b04.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/23\/161405-09b04.jpg\/aid161405-v4-728px-161405-09b04.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>"} Consider your pet's frailty when making the decision. Taking an old or disabled pet with you may be too much trauma for the pet. Find out about your driver's license in the new country. Some countries are happy to accept your existing one from another country or to accept an international driver's license. Others want you to take their local tests after a set time. Avoid waiting to find out––it can be hard to be without your ability to drive in a new place. Provide the appropriate amount of notice to your place of work. If you are not already traveling for the place you work at, you will need to abide with their policies on resignation. Be sure to plan in plenty of time to tell them. However, unless there is something obviously affecting your place of work because of the planning, it is not recommended to inform them until later in your planning. This is in case you change your mind or your place of work thinks about shifting you out earlier than what you might have counted on. Know what to do if you have electronics. If travelling between North America/Japan and the rest of the world, you will need adapters and transformers. The wrong voltage/frequence combination can damage them. Even if travelling between two countries that use the same voltage, you will need adapters. Get ready for big changes. Moving to a place, nothing like your home might give you a culture shock and make the move more difficult, but this will start to be overcome after a few months of immersion. People do things differently in different countries—which is why we call them "foreign" countries—and we are alien to their ways. Yet, this is the biggest and amazing opportunity you will have and to seek to understand a different culture. Once you let yourself into the thinking of people from another country, you will never go back; it is much harder to see the world as "us and them" once you know this experience. If you're not familiar with the customs of the local people, do some research beforehand and get to know the ways as much as possible. It is better that you have a surface understanding than none at all—at least this gives you the opportunity to be understanding and to get more involved in cultural events and customs when you're in the new country. It will also help you avoid insulting the local people. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/161405-12b01.jpg\/v4-460px-161405-12b01.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/1\/19\/161405-12b01.jpg\/aid161405-v4-728px-161405-12b01.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>"} Realize that small comforts lost may become bigger issues than you ever imagined. That favorite coffee drink you loved at home and that favorite place you used to visit can become glaringly obvious to you when they are missing from your life. It is important to acknowledge the sense of loss you feel, but to remain open to finding favorite new experiences instead. The undiscovered may even herald favorite things you will learn to love more than what you were used to in your original home country. It's normal to feel sad or depressed due to these losses; it will pass once you get used to the new country. If you move from a country with a lot of choice in consumables to one with a lot less choice, you may find life challenging. No longer do you have the aisle of breakfast cereals (it is now down to a small rack) or the amazing choice in cars (you have either the blue or the gray one now). Initially, this can be extremely frustrating. You have two choices—one, accept it and realize that a lack of choice frees up thinking time and spares planetary resources, or two, travel back to your home country and buy up (or have understanding family and friends send you care packages). While for many people the lack of choice does not really fade with time (you will find yourself reminiscing frequently about the days when you could get X item in X different styles) but you do get used to fewer choices! Be ready for the bloom to fade after a few months. Initially, the first few months will feel like an amazing vacation and you will spend a lot of it discovering things and feeling excited. However, eventually you will realize that you live there and it is not half as exciting as you thought. For some, this realization can hit sooner rather than later, as bureaucracy, household maintenance issues and minor crises interrupt the flow of settling in. Early on, ask about decent tradespeople. Eventually, something is going to break. In addition, you are going to need someone reliable who turns up when they say, they will and who charges fairly. If you have not already lined up such people through asking others who do know, you are fair game for being taken advantage of, and overcharged. This can be a nightmare experience, and since you have the freedom to plan rather than wait for the ax to fall, plan. Stay calm when dealing with bureaucratic procedures. Most countries have forms, most have queues, and most have the most insanely ridiculous reasons for filling out things and waiting. Yours is not to question why but to learn via locals and online sites how to manage these issues as best as possible. There is always a way, be sure to learn about the right way. If you do not ask, you will never know. Be ready to accept limits on your usual routines and ways of doing things. Another form of culture shock is learning what you cannot do, even though you could do in your old country. You are not in a position to question it—reach an acceptance that this is how things are. Whether the society you have gone to is more or less permissive than what you are used to, be sure to do the right thing to fit in. If you wanted to create a ruckus or take a stand, then moving overseas is not the right way about it; stay home for that! Get support. Moving countries is right up there at the top of the stress scale. Some days it will be fun. Other days it will be the worst experience ever. Other days, it'll feel just like home, because it has become home. Your rollercoaster of emotions deserves to be taken care of. If you suffer from anxiety, unabated fears, depression, etc., seek help with a mental health therapist. Do not suffer in silence—it will only be compounded by the foreignness of everything and everyone around you and you can end up feeling completely isolated and terrified. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/6\/65\/161405-16b01.jpg\/v4-460px-161405-16b01.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/6\/65\/161405-16b01.jpg\/aid161405-v4-728px-161405-16b01.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>"} Be sure to build a network of close friends, to talk openly with family and friends about feelings and to listen carefully to the concerns of your children (if relevant). {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/26\/161405-16b02.jpg\/v4-460px-161405-16b02.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/26\/161405-16b02.jpg\/aid161405-v4-728px-161405-16b02.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>"} Mental health therapy can be obtained online if you would rather deal with someone from your old country. The beauty of the internet is that you can remain close if need be. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/2\/24\/161405-16b03.jpg\/v4-460px-161405-16b03.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/2\/24\/161405-16b03.jpg\/aid161405-v4-728px-161405-16b03.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>"} Use social networking sites such as Facebook, Twitter, Google+ and email to keep in touch with friends and family you've left behind. Use Skype to have face-to-face talks: it's almost like being there! This can be reassuring and beneficial way to keep your feelings in check and to get support from people who know you well. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/4\/4b\/161405-16b04.jpg\/v4-460px-161405-16b04.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/4\/4b\/161405-16b04.jpg\/aid161405-v4-728px-161405-16b04.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>"} Invite your closest friends over to stay occasionally for a mini-break. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/161405-16b05.jpg\/v4-460px-161405-16b05.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/f\/f8\/161405-16b05.jpg\/aid161405-v4-728px-161405-16b05.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>"} Stay safe. Another issue related to culture shock is moving somewhere that is not as safe as where you came from. Ask locals for advice about where to stay away from and what issues are around the area. Wear appropriate clothing for the place you are living in and try to blend in. Sometimes lack of safety happens because of criminals considering someone to be a tourist or to be inappropriately dressed. Call in to the local police station to ask about safety issues. You might also ask about crime levels in areas you are researching for buying or renting a home in too. Determine what country you are interested in moving to. Unless you do not have a choice in the matter, such as with business relocation, the decision is yours to figure out where you see yourself living best. To the beautiful rose city of Toulouse in southwest France? To Berlin in Germany? To the beautiful Nordic country of Iceland? To Mexico? Venezuela? Spain? Russia? China? Perhaps even to an island like Hawaii or Tahiti? Imagine living in that new country. Watch videos online to get a sense of what it like there, during all seasons of the year. Consider weather, pollution levels, ease of access to food, transport, and medical attention. List what things there are to do there by way of work and activities. Look online to find the stories of people who have already made this move. Ex-pats can be the best source of information; reading their experience will help you develop a wider sense of whether or not this is a sensible option or whether it is something that a majority find problems with. Give some credence to what they say, since they are experiencing it; however, also beware that individual experiences will vary considerably depending on the reasons for their move, their income levels, their job experiences, the area of the country they are living in, etc. Ask questions if the forums of the site permit. Will you be able to work in the new country? Is there a demand for your profession? What hoops will you have to jump through for employment? Is there a possibility of getting a job there before moving so that you can be reassured of earning? Few people can afford to take the chance of not having a job in a new country unless they are already wealthy enough to cover the length of stay there. Also, find out about social insurance and what tests you'll need to meet to be eligible—be aware that you may not be eligible for months or years, or maybe never. Take a vacation to the country so you can experience it before calling it home. Guidebooks are a good source of information, but do not rely on them completely. Try avoiding the touristy areas of the country and visit places "off the beaten path," where you can interact with locals on a personal level. However, be warned: If you are enthused to move overseas as a result of having visited a place during a vacation, realize that having a vacation somewhere and living there are two completely different experiences. On vacation, you have no daily grind, no interactions with the daily bureaucracy and routine that locals do and generally not a care in the world. Once you live there, the realities of life in that country may be something quite different from the pampered experience of a tourist. Do not base your decision to move merely on having visited a place! Learn all that you can about the country. This includes local customs (very important), language (even more important), and the areas that make up the cities and regions. It is vital to know whether you think you can handle living under different laws, customs and routines because these will affect your everyday life. For example, stricter regulations about what you can and cannot do in a country like Singapore (down to not chewing gum in public at the risk of being canned) may cause a freedom-loving US citizen to feel constricted. Learn about the country's immigration laws and procedures. Can you even shift to the country you would like to live in? Some countries have very strict requirements for immigrants based on income, age, skill set, training or family connection. You may find that if you are not rich, not skilled, too old, or without family already living there that you do not have a chance to move to the country in question. Read the rules laid out for the particular country on its immigration website. Call the relevant immigration department and ask for more specific information in relation to yourself—no amount of printed information can ever be as clear as laying out your personal situation before someone who can advise on the specifics. Contact the country's embassy as your first port of call. They often keep information packs for those wishing to emigrate. {"smallUrl":"https:\/\/www.wikihow.com\/images\/thumb\/a\/aa\/161405-21b01.jpg\/v4-460px-161405-21b01.jpg","bigUrl":"\/images\/thumb\/a\/aa\/161405-21b01.jpg\/aid161405-v4-728px-161405-21b01.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>"} Be aware of language barriers. Do people speak a different language from your own in the country you are planning to move to? If so, do you speak that language? Be honest about your ability to pick up a new language—it is quite hard for some people to learn a new language, even when immersed in it. During the time that you do not know it, you will find yourself disconnected from a lot of what is happening around you. If you already lack confidence in yourself, this can be an extremely alienating experience. Consider learning the language to a proficient level before leaving your own country. Book lessons for language immersion the moment you arrive. Find a sympathetic tutor who understands both your language as well as the one they are teaching you. Ensure that this person can make the time for you to go to places together to help you learn the language in specific contexts, such as shopping, dealing with a landlord, banking, buying a car, registering for school/college, etc. If you have children, moving overseas becomes more challenging. For starters, think hard about whether you want to pull your children out of their current routine and friendships. This could be a devastating change for them. Is the schooling in the new country as good as or better than where you are now or is it less reliable? What options are there for decent schooling as a foreigner if the local schooling is not good? Find out about these things well in advance because they really matter! Don't forget that depending on where you go, your children will likely have to learn a new language or a new dialect of a language (for example, they may need to become familiar with differences between Australian English and American English). While some parents see this as a good thing because their child has an opportunity to become multilingual, if your child has educational issues of any kind, this might really throw them through hoops. This is especially true if the local language functions on a different alphabet than the child's first language.
Make sure your passport is up to date and you have a visa that will allow you to move to a country. Make a plan. Give adequate time. Consider looking for accommodation in the new country as soon as possible. Set up banking accounts that work for you. See if people you know are already living in the country. Do an honest evaluation of your goods and begin to let go. Receive cash for your items. Consider all options for any pets that you may have. Find out about your driver's license in the new country. Provide the appropriate amount of notice to your place of work. Know what to do if you have electronics. Get ready for big changes. Realize that small comforts lost may become bigger issues than you ever imagined. Be ready for the bloom to fade after a few months. Be ready to accept limits on your usual routines and ways of doing things. Get support. Stay safe. Determine what country you are interested in moving to. Take a vacation to the country so you can experience it before calling it home. Learn all that you can about the country. Learn about the country's immigration laws and procedures. Be aware of language barriers. If you have children, moving overseas becomes more challenging.
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Animal-Pests-With-Hot-Pepper-Spray
How to Get Rid of Animal Pests With Hot Pepper Spray
If you want to make hot pepper spray for controlling pests, start by boiling 1 gallon of water with 3 tablespoons of hot pepper flakes. Once the water is boiling, let the mixture simmer for 15 minutes, and then remove the pot from heat to soak the pepper flakes for 24 hours. After a day of soaking, strain the flakes out of the water, and mix 2 teaspoons of dish soap into the liquid. Pour the liquid into a spray bottle, and spray it on any plants that you want to protect from hungry animals,
Gather the supplies for making an anti-pest spray. Hot peppers have a compound in them called capsaicin, which is an irritant to most animals if they smell or taste it. To make the spray, get water, hot pepper flakes or chopped hot peppers, and biodegradable dish soap. You can find hot pepper flakes at most grocery stores in the spice aisle, or you can order packets of the flakes online. Combine 1 gallon (3.8 L) of water and 3 tbsp (15.9 g) of pepper flakes in a pot. Cooking the flakes in the water will help to release the capsaicin into the water and make the mixture more potent. If you don't have hot pepper flakes available, you can use 10 chopped cayenne or jalapeno peppers. Heat the mixture over high heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Move the pot onto a burner and cover it with a lid. Wait for the water to reach a boil, and lower the temperature to a medium heat. Then, stir the mixture regularly as it cooks to infuse the pepper into the water. Your eyes may start to water if there's a lot of steam rising from the pot. Try to keep your face away from the steam, and leave the pot partially covered while you stir. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it stand for 24 hours. After the heating process is over, the spray needs to infuse for a longer period of time to become as potent as possible. Leave the pot covered and place it in a safe area to diffuse the pepper flavor into the water. Some gardeners let their mixture sit for up to 48 hours for a very potent infusion. However, this may not be necessary if you're only planning to use the spray in your garden. Strain the flakes out of the water and discard the peppers. Pour the liquid through a sieve, and gather the water in a large pot under the sieve. This will separate the flakes from the water, leaving only the hot pepper spray behind. Since you're going to be spraying the liquid, you don't want the hot peppers suspended in the water. They can clog the spray bottle, making your spray less effective. Add 2 tsp (10 mL) of biodegradable dish soap to the remaining liquid. The dish soap helps the spray stick to the plants and other areas when you spray it outside. Make sure you only add the soap to the liquid after the pepper flakes have been strained out of the water. If they're still in the water, the soap will stick to the flakes and get strained out. Try using a castile soap, which is biodegradable and safe for outdoor use. It won't harm your plants or soil, but is powerful enough to add some sticking power to the spray. Pour the liquid into a spray bottle. Label the bottle to prevent a mix-up, and write the date on the outside since the spray will be most effective if used within 2-3 months. When you're ready to use the spray, make sure the cap and nozzle are secured, and shake the bottle vigorously. If you get some liquid on your hands as you're pouring it into the bottle, avoid touching your face, and immediately wash your hands to prevent irritation. Spray the liquid on and around plants to deter deer and rabbits. In the morning or evening, head outside and mist the leaves, stems, and soil surrounding the plants that the deer and rabbits like best. Make sure you spray every part of the plant that you want to protect, since the animals can sometimes eat around the unsprayed parts. If you're not sure how sensitive plants will react to the spray, test a small area of a leaf first. Wait four days and if the plant doesn't react, you should be able to safely use the spray. Avoid plants, like ivy, ferns, succulents, palms, some types of tomatoes, and azaleas, which are known to be sensitive to insecticides and pesticides. Never apply the spray in the middle of the day because the heat from the sun can cause the spray to “bake” the leaves and kill the plant. Apply the spray to a bird feeder if you have squirrels. Squirrels are very sensitive to the active ingredient in peppers, but birds are not. Spray the mixture on your bird feeder and onto the seeds inside of the feeder. When the squirrels eat the seeds, they'll experience a burning sensation in their mouths and won't revisit the bird feeder. Don't worry about the birds eating the spray. They don't have the same reaction to the spray and will still be able to enjoy the seeds. Use an ultra-potent pepper spray to protect against bears. Most commercial bear sprays are just extremely potent pepper spray. To make your own emergency spray, replace the flakes in the spray recipe with 24 large chopped cayenne peppers, and reduce the amount of water to 2 cups (470 mL). Pour the liquid into a small spray bottle to carry with you while hiking or camping for safety in case of an unexpected bear encounter. If you have bears visiting your yard, spray the areas that they frequent. You can use a spray with less potency on camping materials, like your tent and the outside of your cooler for an extra layer of safety while you're camping. Remember to keep pets away from the sprayed areas to avoid injury, especially if you're using a potent spray. Re-apply the spray every week and after rain for the best results. Unfortunately, the spray won't last forever on plants. Plan to go through your garden once per week during the spring, summer, and fall to ensure that your plants are protected from pests. If it rains at any point, try to apply the spray again as soon as possible to deter deer, rabbits, and squirrels. If you notice the animal pests have been avoiding the areas that you've sprayed, but have chosen new targets in your garden, try spraying as many plants as you can. Eventually, the animals will learn that your garden is unsafe and will look for food elsewhere.
Gather the supplies for making an anti-pest spray. Combine 1 gallon (3.8 L) of water and 3 tbsp (15.9 g) of pepper flakes in a pot. Heat the mixture over high heat and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove the mixture from the heat and let it stand for 24 hours. Strain the flakes out of the water and discard the peppers. Add 2 tsp (10 mL) of biodegradable dish soap to the remaining liquid. Pour the liquid into a spray bottle. Spray the liquid on and around plants to deter deer and rabbits. Apply the spray to a bird feeder if you have squirrels. Use an ultra-potent pepper spray to protect against bears. Re-apply the spray every week and after rain for the best results.
https://www.wikihow.com/Become-a-Landscaper
How to Become a Landscaper
If you want to become a landscaper, join a gardening club to learn basic skills like trimming and planting. Additionally, look up landscaping groups on social media to find out more about the different career options, like landscape designers, groundskeepers, and landscape architects. Once you have a clear idea of what you want to do, decide whether to apply for a certificate or degree in subjects such as horticulture or landscape design.
Get a high school diploma. While you may become a landscaper without official accreditation, a high school diploma may be a minimum requirement based on your location and experience. You may always receive on-the-job training to help you obtain a career as a landscaper. Understand what the work entails. Landscapers need to utilize the space and land to make an attractive setting. You must work with the conditions, resources, materials, and practices you have to bring about the best arrangements. Your responsibilities will typically include: : Create budgets and bid plans Meeting with clients to discuss the project Plan and work with garden designers or landscape architects Order the supplies Prepare the interior soil or the outdoor grounds Preparing and correctly installing hydraulically accurate irrigation systems Seed and turf lawns Prune and plant shrubs and trees Plant new plants Install features such as rock gardens, water features, paving, and pathways Construct gardens with water and rock borders Find a focus. The title Landscaper may apply to a number of positions including maintenance worker, groundskeeper, landscape architect, landscape gardener, landscape designer, and landscaper. Research the difference between titles and the requirements for each. You may find that you are passionate about only one area of landscaping and you can focus your time and resources fulfilling the requirements. You may also specialize in interior landscaping such as shopping centers or office buildings. Learn a range of skills. If you are able to find an entry level job, learn as much about landscaping as you can. You may also research online or find landscaping groups via social media. Learn things like trimming, planting, and operating machinery. Check with your local community college, University extension program, or State Department of Agriculture for continuing education classes on landscaping and gardening. You can even join a gardening club. Remember that there's no substitute for experience so if you can't find something paid immediately, try volunteering your time in exchange for a learning opportunity. Get formally educated. Research what schools offer programs related to landscaping. Depending on the school, you may earn a certificate or a degree in horticulture, landscape design, or other related fields. You may need a certificate or degree if you want to move up to a management position. Make sure you have the time and money to complete the program. You can also take classes part-time. Most employers and clients will expect some level of knowledge and experience in horticulture. Depending on your location, you may be able to get a diploma in a variety of Horticultural subjects at a local college. Look into accelerated curricula and schools with strong job placement networks, such as local community colleges and trade schools. It's easier to get formal education to understand design drawings, improve your knowledge of plants, and learn how to manage projects. You must learn these skills in addition to field practice if you are pursuing a career in landscaping. Get certified. There are various certifications that your are able to get from a number of organizations depending on your location. Research online what is needed in order to obtain a professional accreditation. For example, you may receive a Tree Care Industry Association Certificate if you are focusing on safety, regulations, and professionalism for tree care. The Professional Landcare Network (PLANET) also offers a certification for numerous areas of landscaping including managers, interior/ exterior specialists, and technicians. If you are in the US, look into getting state licensed. Many states now have strict requirements for licensing that supersede any certification you may receive. Check your state's licensing requirements to see if you qualify. Depending on your location, you may get certified in Practical horticulture or horticulture. Improve your employability. You should be able to follow directions and complete projects on your own and as part of a landscaping team. You should also strengthen your body and stamina because you need to be physically able to handle the rigours of landscaping. Be motivated, able to work well with others, organized, dependable, and detail oriented. Be diligent about thinking ahead and staying organized during a project. This is extremely helpful for completing a job efficiently and effectively. Those skills will bolster your reputation and bring you more work in the future. Find an apprenticeship. There are apprenticeships available in different areas. Research online or ask local nurseries or landscaping companies if they participate in an apprenticeship or mentorship program. Make sure that you learn skills in garden design, how to understand garden design drawings, gain knowledge about the environment, deep knowledge of plants, how to meet deadlines, how to keep organized, how to work with tools, how to work with others and on your own, and how to work as part of a business or become self-employed. Check your area's requirements to legally work as a landscaper. Different countries, states or provinces, and regional governments may have different requirements for a landscaper to legally operate. Check with your national, state or provincial, and regional governing bodies to get a complete understanding of what is required for you to work as landscaper in your area. Look into factors such as licensing, liability and workman's compensation insurance requirements, tax breakdowns, and local governing boards and registrations for landscapers. Create a schedule. You will need to work enough hours in the field to cover the cost of doing business, in addition to business administration and equipment maintenance. For many people, starting their own landscaping company means working long hours 7 days a week. Expect to spend a considerable amount of money upfront to purchase the essentials like a lawnmower. The beginning of your business will be filled with long hours as you try to cover the initial expenditures so be prepared to balance the rest of your schedule around your work. Some larger, more expensive pieces of equipment can be leased. Look into renting equipment such as trenchers, skid steers, and excavators for individual jobs instead of buying these outright. Plan for winter. Depending on your location, there may be cold seasons of several months that you will be unable to work. Make sure you have done enough work during the rest of the year to cover these lean months. For example, if you live somewhere with cold climates, you may only want to rent your more costly equipment so they don't collect dust during the winter. You may also want to adapt to year round service by offering driveway shoveling or Christmas tree delivery and disposal. Two thirds of the U.S. has downtime during the winter so you must market aggressively to maintain a healthy April through October. The winter will shift to services including raking leaves, winterizing lawns, installing holiday lighting, setting up seasonal greenhouses and hanging baskets, and establishing new clients and revenue streams. Purchase your tools. Purchase your tools depending on the scale of your business. For example, if you will be landscaping yourself, you may only want to purchase a single lawnmower. You may also want to apply for a bank loan or use your credit card to make these initial expenditures as you will only have to pay a very small amount to maintain them throughout the years. Work with your local tool store or dealer to get a line of credit or an account. Talk to your supply company rep extensively for recommendations regarding the best tools for your work and your region, and see what resources they can provide to help you as you get started. Make sure to do your research to purchase quality tools and equipment. You don't have to purchase top of the line equipment unless you have the capital and know that you will be able to cover the cost within a reasonable amount of time. Find equipment and tools that are durable and capable of accomplishing what you need. You don't want to waste money on extra functions that will never be used. For example, you won't need to purchase a riding mower if your clients don't have large properties. A walking mower is significantly cheaper, easier to transport, and cost less to maintain. Make sure to get damage waivers on any equipment you rent. This way, you won't be financially responsible for things like equipment failures or flat tires. Don't purchase expensive office equipment. Instead, direct your funds to things you'll use everyday. You may use your home printer or commit to working out of a shared office space once a week. Landscapers are expected to be constantly on location so don't worry about leasing an office space or setting up an elaborate home office. You'll basically need a computer, printer, and a filing system to organize invoices and other administrative collateral. Sharpen your landscaping skills. If you want to command market value or above, you must be more adept at landscaping than your potential clients or competitors. Investing in classes for gardening basics, computer aided drafting (CAD), and landscaping techniques can pay dividends later. Learn basics like pruning, trimming, and mowing. There are certifications and even degrees that you can achieve. Depending on your location, you may need certifications to handle things like heavy machinery. Have self-discipline. Landscaping is usually done outdoors which means you will enjoy the sunshine. Don't be tempted to get in a round of golf or take your family to the lake unless you have budgeted for that time off. You must be diligent when you attend to your clients' needs to ensure their loyalty. You don't want to unexpectedly lose a client and any potential referrals they might give. Like any service industry, your landscaping business will be built on your reputation. If you work hard and put your clients' needs first, you can reap the rewards of referrals and sustained business. Clients can be particularly demanding in this industry, asking you to focus solely on them and make time during their days off. Be polite but firm when you cannot accommodate them, and suggest alternatives to meet their needs. If, for example, they want to talk on your day off, let them know that you will not be in the office that day, but you can meet them on Monday during their lunch hour. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Landscaping can be hard on your body especially if you're lifting heavy equipment and moving awkwardly shaped rocks and trees all day. Take care of you health by tending to any aches and pains. A nagging injury can develop into something much worse. While you think you can work through the pain to make money in the short term, you may lose everything in the end if it develops into chronic pain that's debilitating. There are official workplace protocols that may need to be followed when operating heavy machinery or hazardous chemicals. Make sure you completely understand the proper procedures and follow them exactly as stated. Always prioritize the safety of you and your employees, especially when dealing with something for the first time. You not only want to avoid injury to yourself but you also want to avoid damage to your client's property. Develop your business acumen. If you're working on your own, you may need to learn marketing strategies, targeted advertising, cash flow administration, and budgeting software. You may be able to hire a staff immediately or outsource things like accounting if you have the initial capital to cover these costs. Don't be afraid to take classes or hire a consultant as the initial expenditure will be worth the investment. While trial and error can work, you don't want to waste valuable time and resources especially when working in a competitive market. Know your market. There are many different clients who seek landscapers and lawn care professionals, and many companies who are willing to meet those needs. Think about what you will do to set yourself apart from other landscapers in your area. A successful startup landscaping business can typically have between 20 to 30 residential clients a week. These clients may receive anything from fertilizing, chemical application, and landscape installation, to mowing and lawn maintenance. Potential landscaping clients will include: homeowners who want you to design their landscaping because they don't have the tools or creativity that you possess, new homeowners who want to update their landscape, homeowners who are looking to sell and want to enhance their home's curb appeal, both residential and commercial builders without an in-house landscaping team. Potential lawn care clients include: homeowners who travel frequently, retirees who don't have the capacity to care for their lawn themselves, “snowbirds” who leave for warmer climates during the cold months, golf course managers, rental property or condominium association managers who need property upkeep, and facilities managers of public green spaces. Public green spaces include cemeteries, universities, government entities, and universities. Devise your service plan. You may offer a variety of services but be sure that you have enough resources to cover everything you offer. For example, if you offer pest control, you may need special certification for animal handling. This certification will require additional training and you may not have the money and time to cover it. Look into people in your area that specialize in other services that you may not offer, and talk to them about developing a mutually beneficial subcontractor relationship. Services may include: lawn maintenance/mowing, hydroseeding, sod installation, landscape care, weeding, fertilizing, landscape maintenance, pest control, landscape design, landscape architecture, or contracting services. Most begin with mowing and begin to add other services as they gain more experience. Set your prices. Come up with an hourly rate for both you and your employees to establish a baseline for your services. This will not be shared to your clients but will help you give your estimates for any requested service. You may want to talk to your mentors or other trusted professionals in your area to get a reasonable sense of competitive pricing. It may also help to take a few business classes through your local community college or University extension program. You may ask friends and family to contact competitors to see how much they offer their services for and then set your prices to compete. You may also figure out how much it would cost you to complete a project and then divide the price of the materials with the amount of hours it would take you to complete the project. You may also figure out your rates based on how much you want to make in a year. For example, if you want to make $40,000 to start, this will roughly be $3,334 a month. Next, divide that by the number of hours you want to work in a month. So if your want to work 35 hours a week in a four week month you would be working 140 hours with a rate of $23.81/hour. You can add a profit margin. The cost of doing business, including tools, administrations, and materials, is billed to your clients on top of your hourly rate. Your rate must, at the very least, cover the bills of your business and personal expenses including food, mortgage, medication, etc. This will allow you to survive but will not give you any profit for savings or investing back into your business. Estimate your jobs. Clients will want to know the upfront cost of your service. There are software packages including CLIP and LandPro that can help you with this tricky proposition. You don't want to give an estimate that's too high that it seems unreasonable, or too low that it makes the project seem like a waste of your time and resources. You must determine what your costs will be including material and labour. Then you can add your profit margin after you have covered the resources. Materials may include topsoil, mulch, and plants. You may be able to find these at wholesalers that will give you greater value. You can then mark up the price to gain a profit. You may also work with subcontractors and rent equipment if it allows you to work with more clients and offer different services. Keep in mind business overhead as well. For example, take into account the cost of gas as you must drive from location to location. Your estimate includes the exact services that you will be providing, the materials needed, and any other details specific to the project. It is the landscaping industry standard to provide an estimate as a free service. Try to avoid the trap of selling your next job to pay for the one you are finishing now. Be diligent about appropriately planning your budgets and estimates to cover the cost of the job. Avoid using a lawn mower bag. Instead of collecting the grass clippings in a regular bag, you can leave it on the lawn for microbes and earthworms to eat. This can help keep your lawn healthy and green. You can also collect the clippings and place them into compost. Rake up a light layer of leaves and go over them with your lawn mower. Leave the discards on your lawn to limit popping up weeds as the leaves break down. View your landscape from inside the house. Take different perspectives to view your landscape. After you view your landscape from the street you should also view it from inside the home to make sure it looks well groomed from multiple angles. You should also view it from rooms with large windows that look out to it. Don’t overstock your space. Allow your plants and flowers to have adequate space to grow and flourish. Don't try to cram every inch of your landscape because you will find it extremely difficult to prune and weed next spring. Choose the right mulch. Red mulch has been found to have harsh chemicals, including arsenic that is harmful to pets and children. Don't let harsh chemicals contaminate your soil. Read labels and choose organic or natural fertilizers. Find the right nutrients. Local agricultural agencies are able to test your soil to see what nutrients it needs if you send a sample to them. Collect two cups of soil in a sample bag by digging about six to seven inches deep into the soil. Research your closest agricultural agency and send your sample. There will be a charge to send the sample. Be sure to contact them before hand to ensure you know the proper procedures and wait time. Buy multiple types of your favourite flower. If there is a particular flower that you like you should buy several and plant them in groupings. You may plant them in clumps of five or seven in one area, or create a unified look by planting these odd numbered clumps throughout your landscape. Space your planting beds correctly. Don't make your planting beds too narrow. Make sure not to place them too close to the house by placing them around a third to two thirds the height of the house. Avoid laying weed fabric. Weed fabric can be a waste of time and money because weeds will continue to grow on top of it in the long term. No matter how many layers of weed fabric you lay down you will still have weeds grow in the long term, so don't waste your resources. Use the right lawn fertilizer correctly. Avoid using lawn fertilizers that have 30 percent nitrogen. Use time-releasing water-insoluble nitrogen only twice a year. Your lawn will need less fertilizer if it is older and well-irrigated. For example, only use fertilizer on Memorial Day and after Labor Day. Avoid invasive species. Do your research and make sure not to include any invasive species in your garden. Talk to nurseries and research online to be sure that you don't include any species that will spread and kill other plants. For example, nurseries still sell purple loosestrife. It is inexpensive and produces a lovely flower but will spread and choke out your other plants. Water your lawn correctly. Water your lawn with one inch of water every week. Depending on your soil and the heat, you may need to water your lawn once every five days. Create a stronger plant with infrequent watering that forces the roots to grow deeper to find ground water, or look into installing a more comprehensive irrigation system. Learn about creating irrigation systems and hydraulic theory. Look into classes on planning and installing irrigation systems. This can help you plan systems that will help maintain a landscape without you having to be there frequently to water it. Remember to check water restrictions during extreme heat. Choose garden flowers based on a colour wheel. Use a colour wheel to determine opposite colours. Choose what colours work best together and find the flowers that match. For example, purple and yellow work well together.
Get a high school diploma. Understand what the work entails. Find a focus. Learn a range of skills. Get formally educated. Get certified. Improve your employability. Find an apprenticeship. Check your area's requirements to legally work as a landscaper. Create a schedule. Plan for winter. Purchase your tools. Sharpen your landscaping skills. Have self-discipline. Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Develop your business acumen. Know your market. Devise your service plan. Set your prices. Estimate your jobs. Avoid using a lawn mower bag. View your landscape from inside the house. Don’t overstock your space. Choose the right mulch. Find the right nutrients. Buy multiple types of your favourite flower. Space your planting beds correctly. Avoid laying weed fabric. Use the right lawn fertilizer correctly. Avoid invasive species. Water your lawn correctly. Choose garden flowers based on a colour wheel.
https://www.wikihow.com/Live-a-Good-Life-Without-Good-Family
How to Live a Good Life Without Good Family
To live a good life without a good family, expand your circle of friends and keep yourself busy. Accept invitations to go out with your friends, and plan time to do things one-on-one or by yourself, like watching movies or going on walks. You can also join hobby-focused clubs, take classes, or volunteer to occupy your time. Know that some days will be tough, especially around holidays. Talk to friends, repeat positive mantras or make a list of simple goals you can achieve in the near future to feel better. Put distance between you and your relatives and establish boundaries with negative people if necessary. If things get really hard, consider visiting a counselor.
Place your trust in friends. After you've been hurt by those close to you it is important to recognize that other people out there do have positive, good traits. Take a moment and think about times that people have been there for you. Maybe write these down and revisit them to start to restore trust in people. Then, look for friends who share your common interests and who will support you in achieving your life goals. It is okay to tell your friends, after you get to know them a bit, that you are wary about trusting people. And, if your friends or significant other ask to meet your relatives you might just say, “I'm not sure if that is a good idea and when we have more time I will tell you why.” If you live at home with family, make plans to meet your friends elsewhere. This will keep some distance between the two groups as well. Or, you can always just chat with your friends online and blow off some steam that way too. Plan nights out on the town. Go have fun doing new activities as a group. These experiences will bond you all together and will give you more things to talk about in your down time. If your friends are busy, feel free to go out to dinner or a movie yourself. Enjoying one's own company is important as well. If you came from a large family and are used to being surrounded by people it may be a good idea to force yourself to do some activities solo. This will build your confidence and demonstrate that you can handle almost anything on your own. Plan some one-on-one or small-group activities as well, such as meeting a friend for coffee or going for a walk together. These activities are quieter and more focused on conversation. This can help build and strengthen relationships by promoting sharing and helping you assess if this is someone you can trust. Accept invitations. If a friend asks you to do an activity or take a class with them, just say yes. Showing that you are available for the good times will make them more likely to confide in you when situations are difficult as well. Also, saying yes will help you stay on their radar as someone to call when they want to hang out or do something fun. Reinforce them reaching out to you by saying yes. If you can't make it, be sure to reschedule the activity (or another activity) in the same conversation to let them know you mean it. And, this means that you may be able to rely on them as a confidante and emotional resource as well. Be sure to reciprocate. If you are invited out, try to find some way that you can issue an invitation to that person as well. Maybe invite them to try out a new restaurant with you. Or, perhaps go on a shopping adventure together. Staying busy will keep your mind off of your family situation. Join hobby-focused clubs. If you live with your family and are in school, participating in clubs will give you an excuse to spend some positive time away from home. And, once you are out of school, it is up to you to find ways to socialize and expand your social circle beyond your family. Look online for groups of people in your area who get together to pursue common interests or hobbies. For example, if you love horses, consider joining a riding group at a local stable. Or, contact your local recreation center to ask about adult intramural sports teams. These types of activities can occupy those evening and weekend hours outside of work. You can also join a local church group for extra support. This has the added benefit of providing a safe space for personal contemplation as well. Take classes to learn something new. It has long been known that performing a new task keeps your brain lively and engaged. However, it also benefits your emotional well-being by boosting your confidence and problem-solving abilities. Look online for various adult or senior classes being offered in your area. Or, if you are a young adult, consider taking rec classes specifically offered for teens or youths. Enrolling in an athletic class, such as yoga, also has the added benefit of helping your body to stay fit and active. Asking for help from more experienced class members is yet another way to expand your social circle beyond family. If you don't think your family will support your new adventures, don't tell them. You are quite vulnerable when trying something new and you need to hear positive, uplifting comments. If you are young and currently live with your family, you may need to get a part-time job to cover the cost of some of these extra social experiences. This can actually be a good thing. A job can help to give you some space and time away from your family, and you can make friends with your coworkers! Volunteer your time. This will help you to see that everyone, at one time or another, faces difficult circumstances. You may also find a new passion while volunteering, such as cooking or painting. For volunteer opportunities in your area search online and then contact the agencies directly for additional information. Be aware that volunteering with certain groups, such as persons affected by family violence, may hit too close to home for you at this point. Instead, look for a volunteering activity that will uplift your mood while also allowing you to help. Put some distance between you and your relatives. If you live with your family, try to avoid common areas, such as the living room. If you live away, try to visit your family less often. Space out your phone calls or text responses more and more. Create physical distance from your family by no longer visiting or inviting them over. You only have so much energy to give and compartmentalizing the negative people in your life provides you with more energy to spend on the positive ones. If your relatives question your increasing distance, you might say, “I've just been really busy lately,” and leave it at that. Keep in mind that when people are used to getting a certain response from you, and suddenly they don't, it is typical for them to try harder before they give up. Be prepared for some push back when you try to distance yourself. Remember to say “No. ” Part of establishing boundaries is learning what you are, and aren't, willing to do for certain people. If you must maintain a relationship with someone, you might consider setting up plans yourself. That way they occur on your terms, where you're comfortable, and last only for small lengths of time. If your family members ask you to do something that is harmful to well-being in any way, just say, “No.” Don't feel the need to provide an explanation as your time is your own to spend. Of course, if you live with your parents, you are more subject to their rules and requests. So, choose carefully when saying “no” and your response will (hopefully) be taken seriously. Take classes in parenting. If you are worried about what kind of family life you might create as a parent, lessen your fears and educate yourself by enrolling in a childcare or parenting class. The instructors will show you that a negative family cycle does not have to repeat itself. And, they will give you the tools to understand what parental actions are beneficial and which are harmful. You can find a parenting class by contacting your local hospital. They will, most likely, offer classes on a variety of parental topics. And, many of these classes are often free-of-charge for soon-to-be parents. Visit a counselor. If you are in school, you can go to the school counselor and it is usually free-of-charge. Sometimes it is just helpful to have an unbiased person listen to your concerns. Or, if you are concerned about modeling your relationship on that of your parents, you may want to investigate relationship counseling. You can meet with a counselor as little or as often as you like. You can attend solo or with your partner. Discussing your family history with a counselor will show you that it is not your fault that you have a negative or problematic relatives. You are only responsible for your choices and actions. There are also lots of great books on this subject that can help you learn how to set and maintain boundaries and have healthier relationships. You can also join a support group. Stay busy around the holidays. Special events and dates, such as anniversaries and holidays, can be very difficult and emotional if you are separated from your family either by distance or emotion. To keep yourself in a positive state of mind during these times it may be helpful to take on extra hours at work. Or, maintain a full schedule of social activities. Being busy will remind you that you are a productive person with a good life. If your coworkers or friends learn that you will be alone over the holidays, they might invite you to spend the time with their family. Carefully consider your emotions before you accept this offer as it may trigger negative feelings for you, such as jealousy. If you live with your family, you might arrange to spend part of the holiday at a friend's house enjoying their celebration. Make these plans well in advance and, if getting to your friend requires a bit of travelling and you can afford to do that, even better. Recognize that some days will be tough. Whenever you are dealing with personal conflicts certain days will be better than others. Try to assess your state-of-mind on a weekly, not daily, basis. Don't beat yourself up if you feel down one day. Honor your sadness that day by journaling about it, allowing yourself to cry, or talking to a trusted friend. This is a part of the healing process. Then, try to find a way to make the next day extra special. Go to your favorite restaurant, for example. It may also be helpful to tell your friends if/when you have a bad day. They may spring into action to lift you out of your funk and provide a positive distraction. Make sure to return this favor when you have the opportunity to do so. If you are in school, keep a close eye on your participation grades (and grades in general) during bad periods with your family. If you have a tendency to focus on yourself and get quieter, make a point to speak up and get those points. Pay attention to healthy ways of interacting. If you've been surrounded by dysfunction and negativity for your entire life, you may need to take a bit of time to observe and understand positive and supportive ways of treating people. Pick up some reading material on healthy interpersonal relationships. Be patient with yourself and expect to make a few errors on your way. For example, you may want to figure out when it is appropriate to say, “thank you,” for something and how to best express that sentiment. Do you write out a full card or simply send a brief test message? You will need to experiment to find out what is comfortable for you. Identify positive role models. If you are a young adult, look around you to find other people who you can respect and follow. They can be someone who you already spend a lot of time around, such as a teacher. Or, they can be a person who you do not know personally, such as a professional athlete. Try to learn more about your role model, including why they make particular decisions. For example, if your favorite football player is always volunteering you may want to follow that model. Repeat positive mantras on a daily basis. When you first wake up each morning, whisper a simple, positive phrase to yourself. You might say, "Today is going to be a good day.” Or, “You will do great today!” Just keep it memorable and mix it up when the phrase loses its punch or effectiveness. You can also take a moment and visualize your day going really well. At the end of the day, you are your own best cheerleader. Figure out a way to keep yourself on the positive track, whether it be through repeating mantras or practicing deep breathing. Journaling positive affirmations and reviewing these can be helpful, as well as keeping positive phrases posted in a place you see often, such as on your mirror or computer monitor. Focus on the future. You can't control the past, but you can shape your future. Sit down and make a list of immediate and distant goals for your personal and professional life. Post this list somewhere visible, like on the wall in your room, and celebrate each time that a line is marked off. A personal goal might be to hit the gym at least three times a week. Or, perhaps you want to watch one movie each week and revel in your downtime. Break your goals down into steps that are small and achievable so that they are more likely to happen. This will reinforce your progress and keep you motivated.
Place your trust in friends. Plan nights out on the town. Accept invitations. Join hobby-focused clubs. Take classes to learn something new. Volunteer your time. Put some distance between you and your relatives. Remember to say “No. Take classes in parenting. Visit a counselor. Stay busy around the holidays. Recognize that some days will be tough. Pay attention to healthy ways of interacting. Identify positive role models. Repeat positive mantras on a daily basis. Focus on the future.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Apple-Pie-(Party-Drink)
How to Make Apple Pie (Party Drink)
If you want to make the party drink Apple Pie, pour apple juice and apple cider into a large pot, along with sugar, vanilla, and cinnamon sticks. Boil the mixture on low heat until the cinnamon sticks open up and unroll. Remove the pot from the heat and let the mixture cool. When it's lukewarm, add a high-proof liquor like Everclear or moonshine. Serve the drink in mason jars.
Pour in the juice, cider, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon sticks into the pot. Heat up over low heat to boiling. Let boil until the cinnamon sticks open up and unroll. Take pot off heat and set on the counter on a cooling rack. Pour in your liquor once lukewarm. Using a funnel pour off the liquid into mason jars. If you like a lot of cinnamon taste you can place a fresh cinnamon stick in the mason jar. Finished.
Pour in the juice, cider, sugar, vanilla, cinnamon sticks into the pot. Heat up over low heat to boiling. Take pot off heat and set on the counter on a cooling rack. Using a funnel pour off the liquid into mason jars. Finished.
https://www.wikihow.com/Sleep-with-a-Stuffy-Nose
How to Sleep with a Stuffy Nose
It can be hard to sleep when you have a stuffy nose, but there are a few tricks you can try to help you drift off. Prop your head up on some pillows in bed so your sinuses drain properly while you're sleeping. If you have a humidifier, set it up next to your bed to prevent your sinuses from getting dry. Or pour boiling water into a large bowl and hold your face over it for a few minutes. The steam from the boiling water will help clear up your sinuses. If you still can't sleep, try making a homemade nasal spray. Mix together ¼ teaspoon of salt, ½ teaspoon of baking soda, and 8 ounces of warm water. Then, spray 1-2 squirts into each nostril right before you go to sleep.
Stay hydrated. To help relieve nasal stuffiness, you need to let the sinuses drain as much as possible. This is easier with thin mucus, which makes it easier to blow the mucus out and then easier to breath. To help thin the mucus, drink as much water as possible. During the day, drink at least nine to 13 8-ounce glasses of fluids. Use a Neti pot. A Neti pot is used to help rinse mucus from your nose. To help you sleep, do this about one hour before bedtime. To use a Neti pot, fill it with a store-bought saline (salt) solution. Then, bend forward over a sink, turning your head to one side and putting the tip of the pot right against your nostril. Slowly pour the solution through the top nostril as you breathe through your mouth and wait for the solution to come through your lower nostril. It should take a few seconds. Repeat on the other side by turning your head to the opposite side. After you are done, gently blow your nose to clear out all the solution and mucus. You can make your own saline solution using either distilled or boiled water (never use tap water that hasn't been boiled for at least a minute). In a separate bowl, add one cup of very warm distilled water. Do not use water that is too hot because it can damage the delicate nasal tissues. Add 1/2 teaspoon of finely ground unprocessed sea salt or table salt to the water. Stir in the salt to make it dissolve. Use steam. Using steam can help clear your sinuses before you go to sleep and can also help treat the underlying inflammation or infection. Steam can also help open up the nasal passages and help thin out the sometimes thick mucus and allow the mucus to drain out of the sinuses. Fill a 1-quart pot with water and boil for a minute or two. Remove the pot from the heat. Cover your head with a large, clean cotton towel and place your head over the steaming pot, keeping your face at least 12 inches away from the water. Close your eyes. Breathe in through your nose and out through your mouth for five counts and then in and out through your mouth for two counts. Repeat for 10 minutes or as long as the water is still steaming. Try to blow your nose during and after the treatment. You can do this every two hours or as often as your schedule permits. Add an essential oil to the water for an added bonus to the steam. Add one to two drops of any of the following essential oils: spearmint, peppermint, thyme, oregano, lavender, tea tree, or sage. If you don't have the essential oils, substitute ½ teaspoon of dried herb per quart of water. Once you add the herbs, boil for another minute, turn off the heat and move the pot to a comfortable area and begin steaming. Choose an essential oil. Many essential oils are thought to have anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial properties and may help treat sinus infection and reduce swelling. If you reduce the swelling in your nose, you will be able to breath easier at night, which will help you sleep better with a stuffy nose. You can mix and match the oils to find the best blend for you but make sure you are not allergic to the oil by testing it on your skin first. Also, keep in mind that some essential oils are toxic if misused. Choose an aroma you like, making sure any essential oil you buy comes from a reputable company with some guarantee of purity. Use equal numbers of drops of each oil when combining. Some essential oils used commonly for stuffy noses are: Eucalyptus Peppermint Lavender Tea tree Clove Chamomile Menthol Add essential oils to the Neti pot. To amp up your Neti pot solutions, you may want to use essential oils. Make sure the oil you use is pure grade and that you aren't allergic or have an adverse reaction to it. Mix in one drop each of frankincense, rosemary and eucalyptus oil to the Neti pot solution. Use a diffuser. Choose an oil from the list that is thought to aid stuffy noses. Add three to five drops of essential oils to the water in the diffuser. About an hour before you try to sleep, sit as close as possible to the diffuser. The humid air and the essential oil with help relieve the stuffiness in your nose, which will help you sleep. If the issue persists, try sniffing the air from the diffuser as often as you can throughout the day to help your sinuses more. Make a chest rub. You can make your own chest rub with essential oils that helps with stuffy noses. Mix three drops of eucalyptus oil, two drops of peppermint oil, and two drops of thyme oil in a tablespoon of carrier oil, such as almond oil. You can also replace any of those oils with additional oils from the list that help stuffy noses. The rub will open up your sinuses, which will help you sleep better. Bathe in the essential oils. Add about 12 to 15 drops of your essential oils into a full bath. The bath should be warm and comfortable. Soak for about 20 minutes and breathe in the oils to help clear your sinuses. Try this close to bedtime. The relaxation mixed with the easing of your stuffy nose will help you sleep better. The steam from the hot bath should help loosen your sinuses. Make or purchase a saline spray. A saline (salt) water nasal spray can be used to help you unstuff your nose and help keep your nose clear. Even if it doesn't fix your sinuses completely, it can help loosen the pressure enough to get you to sleep. You will need water, salt, and a small spray bottle. The spray bottle should be a one to two ounce bottle. You can use sea salt or table salt. Boil eight ounces of water and allow it to cool until it is very warm. Add ¼ teaspoon of salt to the eight ounces of water. Mix well. Add ½ teaspoon of baking soda. The baking soda will help lessen the sting of a very sore nose. Pour into a spray bottle. Spray one or two squirts into each nostril as needed. Repeat this only four to five times a day. Take an antihistamine. One common cause of stuffy nose is allergies. If these are causing you to have a stuffy nose, especially at bedtime, try taking an antihistamine before bed. It may also have the added bonus of causing you to get sleepy, which will also help you sleep better even if your nose is still stuffy. Many antihistamines cause drowsiness. Look for a non-drowsy antihistamine if you need to take it during the day. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how the antihistamine affects you. Try a nasal steroid spray if you have allergies. If your stuffy nose is caused by allergies, you may want to to try a nasal steroid spray to reduce inflammation. When you use these sprays you will experience quick relief, but you'll need to use the spray continuously to get the full benefit. Most nasal steroid sprays need a prescription, but there are current two available over-the-counter — Flonase and Nasacort. If you have seasonal allergies, start using a nasal steroid spray at the beginning of the season to lessen your symptoms. When spraying the spray into your nostril, you'll want to point it toward the outer-wall of the nostril, not straight up or toward the inner-wall (septum). Side effects may include dryness or stinging, sneezing, and throat irritation. If you experience a headache and nosebleeds, call your doctor right away. Prop up your body. While you are sleeping, prop up your entire upper body. This can help drain your sinuses and keep them from getting stuffy. If you can, put some blocks under the head of the bed to raise the whole bed. If you can't find any way to clear your sinuses, this will also help you sleep. Keeping your head up will ease sinus congestion to help you sleep. Use a humidifier. To cut down on stuffiness due to dry air, keep your bedroom humidified. To do this, use either a humidifier or keep a bowl of water near your head. The water will evaporate during the night and help keep your sinuses damp. Dry sinuses make stuffy noses worse. Keeping the air humid in the area where you sleep will help you sleep better with a stuffy nose.
Stay hydrated. Use a Neti pot. Use steam. Choose an essential oil. Add essential oils to the Neti pot. Use a diffuser. Make a chest rub. Bathe in the essential oils. Make or purchase a saline spray. Take an antihistamine. Try a nasal steroid spray if you have allergies. Prop up your body. Use a humidifier.
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-Nothing
How to Do Nothing
If you want to just relax and do nothing, set aside a certain amount of time where any responsibilities or chores have to wait. During that time, find somewhere quiet where you can relax, whether that's a cozy recliner in your home or a peaceful spot in a local park. Turn off any electronics that might distract you, like your phone, tv, or radio, and sit quietly. Clear your thoughts and allow yourself to drift into meditation.
Steal time. Life gets loud, stressful, and tense. When you're ready to pull the trigger on some serious leisure, set a block of time and keep it. Doing nothing on a regular basis is very healthy for your mind, body, and emotional life, especially if you find that you're really wearing yourself thin. Every now and then, it's okay. If you're feeling stressed and overwhelmed, you don't need to set aside hours and hours of nothingness, which would be impractical. Do nothing for 15 minutes every now and then, and you can seriously de-stress. Find a quiet place to sit. Go somewhere you can escape, zone out, and find some peace. If you live in a small apartment, set aside a corner of a larger room with floor pillows, a softly scented candle and maybe a cozy throw. Wherever it is, make sure you can feel comfortable and calm. You don't have to be a monk sitting on top of a mountain in Japan to find peace and quiet. Hit up a quiet corner of the public park, or set out a deck chair in your backyard. Park your car in an empty lot and just sit there. Eliminate distractions. If you're looking at your phone, you're doing something. Turn off your phone, computer, radio, television and any other means of sending or receiving calls or messages. These distractions will only keep you from enjoying the nothing. It can be nice to set an alarm, if necessary, so you can remind yourself when your period of "nothing time" is over. Try DIY sensory deprivation. Some people pay good money for the experience of sensory deprivation, which is basically doing nothing in a dark tank set at your body temperature. While you might not be able to get it perfect, you can approximate the experience. Draw a warm bath and wait until it gets as close as possible to your body temperature. Turn off all the lights, put some earmuffs on, and try to float in the tub for a while. Trippy stuff. Just sit. Zazen, commonly shortened "zen" is a kind of meditation known as "just sitting" meditation. If you ask Zen monks what they're doing during meditation, they would say, "Just sitting." There is no goal to sitting meditation, no end result. Doing nothing is sometimes a lot harder than doing something, and one of the central learnings of Zen is to just "do" whatever it is you're doing. When you're eating lunch, just eat lunch. When you're sitting, just sit. When you're collating data at work, just collate data at work. Try clearing your mind and "watching" your thoughts. Meditation is not thinking. Meditation is allowing your thoughts to occur, unaffected. Let your thoughts of work, worries, family go - not by simply letting them go, but by watching them leave from a distance. Doing this not only allows your body to do nothing but your mind as well. Imagine that you're pulling the camera back away from your thoughts, watching them from a distance. Who's doing this watching? Keep pulling the camera back until you can't. Look for stillness. Don't be discouraged if you find your mind quite active in meditation. Buddhist monks dedicate their entire lives to freeing their minds. For now, shed your worries as much as you can and revel in feeling lighter and less encumbered. Find a meditative activity. While this may not be "nothing," strictly speaking, some people find it easier to avoid distressing thoughts if their mind is focused on a rote activity. Try arranging a Zen garden , or stacking rocks, or engaging in a repetitive activity such as crocheting. Pay attention to only what your hands are doing, and don't allow other thoughts to intrude. Try progressive muscle relaxation. This process can help you achieve deep relaxation while doing nothing. Focus on relaxing each muscle group, from your face to your feet, slowly and with regular, even breaths. Practice looking busy. Get in the habit of making rushed runs to different rooms in your office, with a frowning look on your face, shuffling papers through your hands. When people see you, they'll think, "Must be really busy." Always keep moving around when you're at work. If you're just sitting there doing nothing, someone will notice. But if you're all over the place, nobody will think to question whether you're doing something or just wandering around. If you're working on a computer, tilt your screen so nobody can see it and type furiously. Listen to music or podcasts instead. Volunteer for brainless tasks. Does your boss need someone to sweep up the kitchen? Volunteer. Does somebody have to sit out back and sort boxes? Sounds good. The more brainless the task, the more like doing nothing it will be. The more stressful thinking required, the more difficult the job. Alternatively, it may be better to never volunteer for anything. If you ever find yourself standing around on the clock, just keep standing there. That's good money. Lie about how long it takes to do things. Scotty said it best on Star Trek: "Tell the captain it's gonna take you four hours, so you can look like a genius when you get it done in two." If nobody else can do what you do, then nobody knows how long it should take. Tell your boss it took you all day to drive around selling ads, or that you're running into all sorts of problems filling out that report, so you haven't gotten it finished, and it'll probably take a few more hours. If you're already done, just sit there doing nothing and making your money. "Let the foreman find you. " An old adage from automotive factory lines, passed down from older hands to new workers was to just sit tight if something went wrong. If your machine stops working and the line stops, don't go running off to tell someone. Just stand there. You're getting paid either way. You don't have to work in a factory to abide by this basic rule. If you're ever working and something goes wrong, or breaks, just kick back. Put on your confused "trying-to-figure-it-out" face and scrutinize things closely, doing absolutely nothing. Let someone else do it. Some people let their egos get in the way of their doing nothing. You're not in a productivity competition with your coworkers. You don't need to be hyperactive if you're being paid hourly and you're on the clock. If something comes up that anyone can do, let someone else do it. You can even help this process along. Learn to say, "I could do it, I guess, but that's totally in Jim's wheelhouse. He'll knock that out of the park." Of course, at some workplaces, your paycheck does depend on your productivity. You usually can't let someone else do everything for you. Take a long lunch. Take as long a break in the middle of the day as possible while you're working, especially if you're on the clock for it. When five o'clock rolls around, that extra fifteen minutes you got to steal to finish your sandwich will be the last thing on everyone's mind. At most jobs, you'll have to feel this out to see how far you can push it. If you're on the clock from 8-3, you can always say that you've got to be somewhere else and you can't stay when it's time to leave. Just ignore anyone who makes comments or tries to make you feel "lazy" for taking a decent break. Unless it affects your employment, it's not your job to care. Play to your strengths. Depending on what kind of worker you are and what kind of job you have, you can always find a way to emphasize your good characteristics as a worker to allow for a lot more laziness. If you're a talkative, active presence, make that presence known at meetings and in group situations by talking a lot. Be the "idea" person in the room. You'll seem like you're busy and valuable, even if when you're alone, you do basically nothing. If you're a quiet, but studious worker, get away with doing nothing by putting it off until later. Do nothing Monday through Wednesday, but slam yourself on Thursday and Friday to get all your work done for the week. Fail in calculated ways. You don't have to be the best worker at your job, you just have to be good enough to keep getting paid. That's all that you have to worry about. If your boss saddles you with a big responsibility, it's ok to fail. In the future, you won't be asked to take on special responsibilities again. Good deal. It's important to look as if you came close, but couldn't get it done. Take a project in the completely wrong direction, but take some time to do it. It's better to make good-natured mistakes. Get a job that's basically like doing nothing. If you could do nothing and get paid for it, that'd be a pretty sweet deal. Jobs in which it's very easy to steal time include: Night security Ticket-taking House-sitting Writer of spa reviews Cute pet video aggregator Food testing Any telecommuting job Keep your inbox full. If people try to get a hold of you on the phone and get the full inbox treatment, they'll think you're so busy you're totally swamped with things to do. Here's the secret: just don't listen to any of them. Be positive. If you're good-natured, hapless, and lazy, people will think it's just part of your personality. If you're a jerk and try to get away with doing nothing all the time, people will think you're a super-jerk. If somebody catches you doing nothing, or gets on your case about it, just admit that you're confused: "I wasn't sure about that. You're right, you're right. Thanks for getting me on track!" Eliminate your attachments. The less personal responsibility required of you, the less you'll have to do. It's hard to get away with doing nothing if you got to pick up kids from soccer practice, walk a dog, or go on lots of dates. If you want to do nothing in the long-term, keep your life and simple and streamlined as possible. Be a minimalist. Keep your relationships few and far between and your belongings cut to the absolute bare essentials. Accept the charity of others. When you let other people do things for you, that's less you have to do for yourself. If you let your studious and friendly neighbor know that you don't have a lawnmower because you can't afford one, watch how fast your grass gets mowed. Even if the real problem is laziness, coax out charity from others to get away with doing less. Commit to happiness, not responsibility. Anytime you "have to" do something, it's less satisfactory than doing something you want to do. While some people think fulfilling your responsibilities is a rewarding and wholesome way of living life, it's also meh. If you want to do nothing, stay focused on having fun and idling, not ladder-climbing social responsibilities. Often, we define doing something and nothing in terms of whether or not we deem it "useful." Your happiness? Yeah, that's useful. That means taking some time, every now and then, to do nothing. Sleep in. Great way to do nothing? Sleep. It'll cut into your opportunity to be productive throughout the day, and it'll be the most comfortable and restorative way of doing nothing in the long term.
Steal time. Find a quiet place to sit. Eliminate distractions. Try DIY sensory deprivation. Just sit. Try clearing your mind and "watching" your thoughts. Find a meditative activity. Try progressive muscle relaxation. Practice looking busy. Volunteer for brainless tasks. Lie about how long it takes to do things. "Let the foreman find you. Let someone else do it. Take a long lunch. Play to your strengths. Fail in calculated ways. Get a job that's basically like doing nothing. Keep your inbox full. Be positive. Eliminate your attachments. Accept the charity of others. Commit to happiness, not responsibility. Sleep in.
https://www.wikihow.com/Exercise-Will-Power
How to Exercise Will Power
To exercise will power, wait 5 minutes to eat even when you're hungry. You could also try taking a cold shower for 2 minutes before turning on the hot water, which will help you get used to using your will power to resist short-term temptations. Throughout the day, remind yourself to sit up straight when you're sitting down, since good posture improves your will power. If you want to improve your mental will power, try meditating regularly, which helps you gain control over your thoughts and boosts your health. Additionally, make sure you get between 7 and 9 hours of sleep every night, since your will power will be weaker if you're mentally or physically exhausted.
Resist short-term temptations. Willpower must be exercised in order to not give in to all sorts of small temptations that face us everyday. If you practice resisting these small temptations, you will lay the foundations for greater willpower in other areas of your life. For instance: Don't buy an item that you want on impulse yet don't really need, such as a coffee, CD, or new shirt. Instead, save your money. Put snacks away in a drawer or cabinet instead of leaving them in plain sight. Go for a brief walk instead of checking your email or social media accounts. Create “if-then” plans. Knowing ahead of time what you will do in a situation to avoid temptation or to practice willpower can help you succeed. When faced with such situations, commit to “if-then” statements. For instance: If you are trying to avoid junk food: “If I go to the grocery store and I can't stop looking at unhealthy snacks, then I'll pick up a box of whole-grain cereal instead.” If you are trying to avoid drinking alcohol: “If someone offers me a drink, then I'll just ask for a soda.” If you are trying to control your temper: “If I start to feel mad, then I'll immediately close my eyes, take a deep breath, and count to ten to calm down.” Delay gratification. Giving into desires can be pleasurable in the short run, but sometimes holding off on things can increase your overall sense of willpower and satisfaction. There are numerous ways to practice delaying gratification everyday, such as: Taking a shower that is cold at first, and only allowing yourself warm water after a few minutes. Waiting 5 minutes before you eat, even when you are hungry. Fasting for a day (only attempt this if you are healthy enough, and talk with a doctor beforehand). Only allowing yourself to make a desired purchase after a certain period of time, such as a week (this also gives you time to determine if it is something you really want). Pay attention to your body. Research shows that periodically paying even brief attention to your posture, breathing, etc. can boost your willpower and mood. Simple exercises to accomplish this include: Reminding yourself to sit up straight Pausing to take a few deep breaths every so often Getting up from your desk or couch for a 5 minute break every hour Push yourself physically. Getting exercise is good for your physical health as well as your sense of self-control. By taking charge of your body, you will increase your willpower in other areas of life. Focus on creating a plan for physical conditioning that suits your lifestyle and abilities. Don't be afraid to start out small, and remember that any improvement you can make is worthwhile. The important thing is to stick to your plan. Depending on your experience, try: Taking a 10 minute walk everyday, then increasing it to 30 minutes or more. Creating an exercise routine , whether indoor or outdoor. Playing a favorite sport with friends one or more times a week. Training for a 5k, marathon, etc. Biking to work each day instead of taking a car or public transportation. Climbing a mountain. Reject or replace unwanted thoughts. In addition to physical exercises, you can increase your willpower through mental conditioning. Most importantly, focus on banishing thoughts that bring you down. By practicing self-control in this way, you will feel more in charge of how you feel and think. Write down negative thoughts and recast them in a positive light. For instance, if you are tempted to think “I've never done this before, and don't know what to do,” recast the situation more positively by thinking “This is an opportunity for me to learn something new.” Avoid particular people, places, situations, media, and other elements of your life that tend to cause you to have negative thoughts. If you find you're consuming a lot of negativity during the day, try to balance it out with a positive book or podcast. Meditate. The simple practice of meditation can dramatically increase your sense of self-awareness, boost your mood and health, and reduce stress. If you get in the habit of meditating periodically, even for 5 minutes at a time, you will practice willpower both by sticking to a goal and by deepening your sense of self. Various types of meditation include: Chanting mantras , in which you repeat a word or phrase over and over again. Exercising mindfulness to be happier , in which you focus on your consciousness while meditating through breathing exercises and other techniques. Practices that combine meditation with physical activity, such as meditating on love and doing tai chi. Certain yoga breathing exercises. Visualization techniques. Focus on virtues. As part of your overall goal of utilizing your willpower, you may want to devote some attention to virtues, such as showing compassion for other beings, being a good friend, practicing patience and honesty, etc. Research suggests that willpower and virtues are related, so do things like: Practicing a random act of kindness each day, such as offering a seat on the bus to someone else, anonymously paying for a stranger's lunch, or giving a compliment to someone in need. Devoting at least one hour a week to helping another person in some non-required way. Volunteering with a community organization. Showing patience with family, friends, coworkers, etc. by resisting the urge to be judgmental. Establish your motivation. Knowing your reasons for wanting to change increases the chance that you will be successful at meeting your goal. If you want to practice willpower, try to determine and understand why, no matter if the cause is very specific or very general. Diverse examples include: You want to get to work on time. You want to stop smoking. You want to be kinder to others. You want to be more active. You want to be more successful. You want to get in touch with your spiritual side. Focus on one goal at a time. Increasing your self-control in any aspect of your life can have a positive effect on your willpower in general. However, you are more likely to succeed at practicing and improving your willpower if you focus on one goal at a time. Prioritize your goals and determine substeps to decide where to begin. For instance: Suppose you have an overall goal of being more successful in life, and you have decided that being better at your job is the place to start. You have been chronically late to work, and determine that getting to work on time is the first step you should take. Focus on exercising willpower by waking up early so that you get to work on time. Don't move on to another goal until you have accomplished this first step successfully. Monitor your behavior. It is important to keep track of your progress as you seek to practice willpower. That way, you can tell if you are on your way to success, and whether or not you need to make any adjustments to improve. If you are trying to get to work on time, for instance, keep a log each day that records when you go to bed and when you wake up. Notice if you are making improvement or need to make changes. For example, if you notice you are waking up on time everyday except for Mondays, focus renewed willpower on fixing that. There are several websites, apps, and programs that can help you monitor your progress as you seek to achieve goals. However, be careful not to over-monitor yourself or get caught up in using one of these aids, as it can become distracting and reduce your willpower. Reward yourself. It is perfectly ok and beneficial to reward yourself occasionally for meeting your goals and practicing your willpower. Give yourself a treat when you are successful—just make sure that increasing your willpower is the real goal, not the short-term reward. Get plenty of sleep. Being well-rested is very important if you want to successfully practice and improve your willpower. If you are mentally or physically exhausted, your chances of success are reduced. Most adults need 7-8 hours of sleep a night, so set an appropriate goal.
Resist short-term temptations. Create “if-then” plans. Delay gratification. Pay attention to your body. Push yourself physically. Reject or replace unwanted thoughts. Meditate. Focus on virtues. Establish your motivation. Focus on one goal at a time. Monitor your behavior. Reward yourself. Get plenty of sleep.
https://www.wikihow.com/Answer-Reference-Check-Questions
How to Answer Reference Check Questions
If someone contacts you for a reference check of a previous employee, it's important to be clear and honest when you answer their questions. Explain your relationship to the employee and how long you've known them. Give a brief description of the employee, summarizing their strengths and skills in a favorable manner. Then, elaborate on their skills, giving specific examples of times they've used them to solve problems. If you're asked to describe the employee's weaknesses, give an example or 2 of ways they've improved their less desirable qualities. When you're asked why they left their job with you, be honest, but don't go into too much detail. For instance, say something like, "The candidate left on good terms to pursue other opportunities in the industry."
Ask the candidate for information about the job before the reference check, if possible. If someone asks you to provide a reference for them, get as much information about their goals as possible. Inquire about what kind of opportunity the candidate applied for, and ask them to give you the job description, if possible. You'll be best equipped to portray them as an ideal candidate if you know what the job is looking for. Ask if they would like you to focus on anything in particular. A candidate might ask for a reference with the hope that you will give them credit for specific skills or accomplishments. For instance, if a former employee learned bookkeeping skills while working for your company, they might want you to focus on that point. Ask the candidate what they would like you to narrow in on when providing a reference for you. Make sure that there are no details you should avoid. The candidate you are endorsing may not want a potential employer, landlord, or other individuals to know certain details about their personal or professional background. Knowing what to avoid will make it easier to answer reference questions without awkwardness or worry. Prepare a concise and favorable description of the candidate. During a reference check, you will almost certainly be asked to describe the person you are being asked about. To avoid being put on the spot, think ahead about the best way to summarize their strengths and skills. Preparing this in advance will allow you to answer more confidently and sound more convincing. Introduce yourself and your relationship to the candidate. Introduce yourself by stating your full name. Outline the qualifications that make you a good reference. Establish how you know the candidate and for how long you have known them. For example, say something like, "My name is John Smith. I am a district sales manager and I was Jane's direct supervisor for 3 years, starting in 2007." Provide concrete examples of the candidate's skills in action. Instead of listing a candidate's skills, describe how those skills were reflected in the person's actions. Give specific examples of how the candidate used their expertise to solve a problem or improve their workplace. You may be asked to do so directly, or asked a more general question that you can elaborate on. For instance, if you want to highlight a candidate's organizational skills, describe how they implemented a new catalogue system for office files to make documents easier to access. Describe the candidate's weaknesses within the context of self-improvement. You will certainly be asked to list some of the candidate's negative qualities or shortcomings. Answer this question honestly, but frame this answer within the larger picture of their work to improve. This is the best way to retain your credibility without throwing the candidate under the bus. For instance, note that the candidate had an issue with meeting deadlines, so they streamlined their work habits to remedy the problem. Be honest and diplomatic about why the candidate no longer works with you. Answer the question of why the candidate left your organization concisely and factually. Do not embellish the story or add personal opinions to it. Note that this question was almost certainly asked of the candidate themselves in their interview, so you must be truthful. For instance, say something like, "The candidate left on good terms to pursue other opportunities in the industry." Do not answer inappropriate personal questions. Employers are prohibited from asking certain personal questions during job interviews and reference checks that may sway their decision unfairly. While a candidate  may choose to answer such a question during their interview, you are not permitted to provide this information about them. Politely decline to answer any questions pertaining to: The candidate's health The candidate's marital status Whether or not the candidate has children The candidate's current financial situation Introduce yourself to establish your own credibility. To offer a good character reference, you need to convince the person asking you questions that you are a reliable judge. Introduce yourself, then state what your profession is. List any other notable qualifications that you have. If it hasn't already been established, you should also provide some background about how you know the candidate. For instance, say something like, "My name is John Smith. I am a career counsellor with a background in media relations. I've known the candidate since we attended college together." Emphasize that the individual is reliable. The primary goal of questioning a character reference is to determine how trustworthy they are. Be sure to state clearly that you consider the person you are vouching for reliable and responsible. Provide examples of how you or others have been able to rely on the individual in the past. For instance, mention a time when the individual has helped you in an emergency or offered assistance during a difficult time. Highlight the individual's positive demeanor. Another goal of character reference checks is to determine if an individual is easy to get along with. Emphasize positive personality attributes like kindness, compassion, diplomacy, respectfulness, and generosity. Give examples of how the individual demonstrates these assets in their daily life.
Ask the candidate for information about the job before the reference check, if possible. Ask if they would like you to focus on anything in particular. Make sure that there are no details you should avoid. Prepare a concise and favorable description of the candidate. Introduce yourself and your relationship to the candidate. Provide concrete examples of the candidate's skills in action. Describe the candidate's weaknesses within the context of self-improvement. Be honest and diplomatic about why the candidate no longer works with you. Do not answer inappropriate personal questions. Introduce yourself to establish your own credibility. Emphasize that the individual is reliable. Highlight the individual's positive demeanor.
https://www.wikihow.com/Lose-Weight-Just-by-Exercising
How to Lose Weight Just by Exercising
To take the first step to losing weight by exercising, perform a variety of cardio exercises for at least 20 minutes a day. To quickly burn calories and fat, try interval workouts that switch between performing strenuous cardio for 1 minute and moderate cardio for 2 minutes. You can also perform strength training bodyweight exercises, like crunches or push-ups, in order to build muscle mass and increase your metabolism.
Write your exercise goals down. The simple act of writing down your goals makes you much more likely to accomplish them. Make your goals realistic. If you've never run a mile, don't make your goal to run two miles a day during your first week of exercise. Create a schedule. You want to have set days for your workouts. You should gradually increase the duration and difficulty of your workouts. Create high-intensity cardio sessions. Cardio workouts are an essential part of burning calories and fat. With cardio, you can burn a lot of calories in a short amount of time. Choose the type of cardio you enjoy. Some types of cardio include: walking, swimming, running , and jumping rope. Do your cardio for at least twenty minutes at a time for maximum benefit. Add in intervals to your workout. For example, sprint as fast as you can for one minute, then walk for two minutes, then sprint again for one minute, and walking again for two. Gradually add more repetitions to your routine. When doing intervals, using cardio machines like treadmills, stair climbers, ellipticals, rowing machines, and stationary bikes can be helpful because you can keep your speeds consistent. Add strength training. Even though cardio is the quickest way to lose fat and burn calories, strength training is an important part of keeping the weight off and maintaining your muscle mass. As your muscle increases, so will your metabolism. You don't need a gym to strength train. Start with bodyweight exercises. These include: sit-ups, crunches, push-ups, planks, burpees, and lunges. Gradually add in weights. Exercises with dumbbells, like curls or tricep extensions, can especially help to target your arms and reduce arm fat. Vary your workouts. If you do the same exercises every day, you'll be more likely to burn out and get bored or reach a fitness plateau and have a difficult time losing weight. Alternate days between cardio and strength training. Switch up your cardio. Maybe go for a long bike ride one day and a run the next time you do cardio. In your strength training, spend one day a week focusing on your core, one day on your upper body, and one day on your lower body. Join a class. If you can, joining an exercise class can be extremely beneficial to your exercise routine. In a class, a teacher will most likely push you harder than you'd push yourself. Also, you'll have the accountability of your classmates. If you pay for classes in bulk ahead of time, you'll be more likely to stick to going on a regular basis. Ease into exercising. If you don't already consistently exercise, diving headfirst into a strenuous regime can be discouraging and even cause injury. Get creative and find small ways to add more movement to your day. Do housework and yard work. Scrubbing, dusting, raking, weeding and mowing are all great ways to burn calories. Plus, you'll check off some of your chores. Go out of your way to walk more. Park 15 minutes away from your office building or at the farthest end of a store's parking lot. Pay for your gas inside, and walk inside a restaurant instead of using a drive-thru. Always take the stairs instead of an elevator or escalator. Though these are small adjustments, the calories you burn add up. Add a daily walk. Walking is unintimidating, and it is a great way to get in shape that is gentle on your body. You can walk anywhere: around your office, in your neighborhood, or at a park. Plan your route ahead of your walk, so you know how far you are going to go. Walk as long as you can, as many days of the week as you can. Thirty minutes a day is an excellent supplement to your exercise routine. Change your commute. If you are in a position to do so, consider biking to work. Biking is a great way to add cardio into your routine. If you bike to work, you'll not only improve your fitness, you'll also save money on gas and help the environment by reducing your emissions. Start fidgeting. Even tiny movements, like tapping your toes to a catchy song can help improve your overall wellbeing. If you get the urge to move, don't suppress it. Move your fingers, sway back and forth, changing your seating position, play with nearby items. Don't sit while you think or wait. Stand up and pace around. Invest in a stability ball. If you work in an office setting, this is an ideal way to incorporate some strength training into your workday. Simply sit on your stability ball instead of a desk chair. If you don't like the idea of a stability ball, consider a standing desk, instead. Walk your dog often. This is an incentive for you to get outside walking and will benefit your pet, as well. If you don't have a dog, think about dog walking for a friend or putting out an advertisement to be a dog walker as a side job. Agreeing to walk someone else's pet will hold you accountable to your exercise plans. Consider a fitness tracking device. A wristband device can help you keep track of how much you really are increasing your daily movement. Plus, seeing it on your wrist will be a reminder to get moving. Stretch out your body. Active stretching before working out is a good habit to get into. It will help loosen up your muscles and prevent you from getting hurt, so you can continue your workouts on schedule. Some good active stretches you can try are arm circles, leg swings, chest pumps, arm rows, and knee bends. Do 20 walking lunges around your room or outside on the pavement. This dynamic stretch with warm up your legs. Stand upright, and grab one of your feet behind you with a bend at the knee. Pull it as close to your body as your can while still keeping your balance. Then, switch sides. This will stretch out your quad muscles. Do walk and run intervals for 25 minutes. In a beginner's workout, you can do shorter run intervals. This can be easily done outside with a timer or on a treadmill. Walk for four minutes, and then run vigorously for one minute. Repeat this sequence three more times. Then, after your last minute run, walk for five more minutes to cool down. Make sure on the walk portions of your intervals, you are walking briskly. Do 50 crunches or sit ups. Doing a small sequence of body weight exercises after intervals can help you burn fat more quickly. Lay on your back on a comfortable foam pad or towel. Place your feet flat on the floor, and bend your knees slightly. If you're doing crunches, raise your body up halfway to your knees and then back down to the ground. Go all the way to your knees if you want to do sit-ups. You can either do your 50 crunches or sit-ups all at once, or split them up into two sets of 25 with a break in-between. Complete 20 push-ups. If you find push-ups too difficult at first, you can modify them. Simply put your knees on the floor as you do your push-ups but keep the rest of your body aligned in a straight line. You can do these all at once or in two sets of 10 with a break in between. Plank for 30 seconds.Plank is a good exercise to end on because it utilizes your entire body, so you finish your workout strong. The plank position looks like the top of a push-up before you bend your arms. You want to body to be straight, like a board. You can modify the plank by resting on your forearms instead of your hands.
Write your exercise goals down. Create high-intensity cardio sessions. Add strength training. Vary your workouts. Join a class. Ease into exercising. Add a daily walk. Change your commute. Start fidgeting. Invest in a stability ball. Walk your dog often. Consider a fitness tracking device. Stretch out your body. Do walk and run intervals for 25 minutes. Do 50 crunches or sit ups. Complete 20 push-ups. Plank for 30 seconds.Plank is a good exercise to end on because it utilizes your entire body, so you finish your workout strong.
https://www.wikihow.com/Know-if-Your-Boyfriend-Is-Using-You
How to Know if Your Boyfriend Is Using You
You might have a suspicion that your boyfriend is using you, but you can find out for sure by thinking about when and where he wants to spend time with you. Reflect on all the times you've hung out with your boyfriend and try to notice patterns. If he only wants to be with you at night or in the bedroom, he might be using you for sex. Also, take note of when he compliments you. If he raves about how beautiful you are right before asking for some money or a favor, that's a huge red flag. Once you've examined the situation and have some evidence, reach out to a friend or family, as they might be able to help you come to a decision.
Think about when he wants to spend time with you. Does he only want to hang out with you at night? Does he ever even just want to spend time with you ? Maybe he coincidentally only has time for you when you have an invitation to a cool party. Start paying close attention to when he wants to see you, because this can say a lot about his intentions. Consider where he wants to spend time with you. If he only wants to be in the bedroom, that's a huge red flag. If he never wants to take you around his friends, but would rather always be alone in his home, that may mean he isn't interested in making you a public and "official" part of his life. Jot down a list of all these red flags and warning signs. Think about the details of each. Consider things like how often he says or does something that bothers you, or makes you uneasy. Making a list is a great way to gather your thoughts and voice the concerns that may have only been brewing in your head up until now. Is this a repeated behavior, or are you holding a grudge over something he did once, six months ago? While you should look out for yourself and stand your ground, there are also times when you have to be willing to forgive and forget if he's said sorry. Forgetting to call you when he said he would is annoying. Blowing you off on your birthday because he had something else to do is unacceptable. Go down the list and be honest about how bad his actions are, and how down they make you feel. Talk to friends and family that you trust. Sometimes people around you can see things that you can't. Rumors, warnings, and advice from people can all be useful when you're feeling conflicted. Keep in mind, however, that only you and your boyfriend are in the relationship. Don't air out the dirty laundry of your relationship to anyone and everyone who will listen. This can create more problems. Only consult trustworthy and well-intentioned people. Decide what to do. If you've examined the situation, spoken to people you trust, and decided your suspicion is silly, decide how to move on. Maybe you have some confidence issues you need to address to feel secure in the relationship. If you are certain that there are valid reasons to be uneasy, then you'll need to figure out how to confront the situation with your boyfriend head on. Stop giving him what you think he wants. In other words, think about whatever you think he is using you for , and get rid of it completely. Then, observe his reaction. In a healthy relationship, there should be several things that make your partner feel happy and fulfilled. If the relationship suffers greatly because of one change, this might be a problem. Tell your boyfriend you want to cool off for a bit if you think he's using you for sex or other physical affection. If he only wants to hang out in the bedroom at night, tell him you'd rather start going out during the daytime. When he initiates physical intimacy, remind him that you aren't interested right now. Ask him to respect your boundaries. If you aren't sure what to say to him, say, "I want to focus on our emotional connection, so let's hold off on the physical stuff for now." His reaction will let you know if he's using you or not. If he cares about furthering the relationship without sex, he will stick around. If he doesn't want to be with you if he isn't getting the physical intimacy he wants, ditch him. Remember, it is your body. The most important thing is that when you say "No," your boyfriend respects that. Protect your money if you think that's what your boyfriend wants. Tell him that you don't feel comfortable spending money anymore, and give an excuse if you need to. It's completely understandable if your boyfriend doesn't have the money to spoil you, but it's not OK if he demands that you spoil him. If the interest is gone when your money is gone, that's bad. Tell your boyfriend, "I really need to start saving my money, so I am going to cut back my spending a lot." Then, if he asks you for money or to pay for something, you can remind him of this. Again, his reaction will tell you what you need to know. The same approach can be taken with any other thing your boyfriend might be using you for, such as popularity, gifts, etc. It may seem tough at first, but a quality boyfriend will stick it out if he thinks the relationship is worth it. Notice the things he does for you. When you feel like you're blissfully in love, you may not notice if your boyfriend isn't doing anything for you. It's easy to be so infatuated with someone that you make excuses for them. However, start paying attention to the things he does, or doesn't do, for you. This doesn't necessarily mean bouquets of roses and fancy dinners— this just means basic ways of showing he cares. For example, does he make any simple, yet meaningful gestures, such as bringing you a coffee when he knows you are tired or sending you an encouraging text message when he knows you are having a bad day? Recognize the difference between sweet compliments and flattery. If he tells you he loves your sense of humor and wants to listen to your problems, he probably genuinely cares. If he raves about your beauty right before asking for a favor, watch out. Take special note of the things he does when he gets no benefit in return. If he does nice things simply to make you feel good, that's a great sign. Take some time to be alone. You don't have to make a big announcement to your boyfriend that you need a “break,” but find a way to get away for a little bit. It can be easy to accept bad behavior or ignore warning signs when you are in the presence of your boyfriend. Whether you're blinded by love or intimidated by the thought of refusing him something, you may not be able to think clearly when you're with him. When you're away from him, reflect on the relationship. Are you getting from him the same amount that you give to him? Healthy relationships are mutually beneficial. By giving him space, you also will be able to see how he does on his own, without whatever he might be using you for. Plan a time to talk, and approach the situation calmly. It's important to let him know you'd like to have an important discussion, otherwise he may get defensive and upset with the abrupt ambush. This will give him some time to reflect on your relationship and prepare for a thoughtful conversation. By planning to talk, you also have time to calm down, gather your thoughts, and figure out how you will address him. It is crucial to enter the conversation calmly and with a level head. Even if you feel hurt or angry, the conversation will not be productive if you spend it crying and cursing at him. Lay out your concerns. Be blunt, but do not attack him. Don't minimize how you've felt, or sweep any of your feelings under the rug. Your emotions are valid, and you shouldn't shy away from expressing yourself just because it may be uncomfortable. By laying your feelings out on the table, you allow him to give an explanation, to comfort you, to 'fess up, or to improve his behavior. Start your sentences with "I" instead of "you" so he doesn't think you are attacking him. Saying something like, "I feel sad when we only spend time together at night" will sound better to your boyfriend than, "You only call at night and I hate it." Let your boyfriend talk. Even if you are absolutely certain that your fears are warranted and he has been using you, it will give you closure if you let him explain himself. Avoid interrupting him, as this will only increase the tension of the situation. If you disagree with something he is saying, wait until he is finished speaking to address it. By giving him the floor, you can analyze his reaction after you've placed your concerns on the table. Is he remorseful and apologetic, or defensive and rude? Remember, your feelings are valid. Even if your boyfriend believes he has done nothing wrong, don't let him make you feel guilty for feeling the way you do. Decide how you will move forward, either as a couple or alone. Once you've addressed what has been on your mind and your boyfriend has heard how you've been feeling, decide how you'll proceed. If he doesn't offer an explanation and apology that provides comfort and optimism about the future of your relationship, perhaps it's time to end the relationship. If you plan on staying with your boyfriend and are satisfied that he is in it for the right reasons, make sure that you create a plan with him. If your feelings are being hurt and you've felt like you're giving more than you're getting, you need to figure out how to correct these issues. Otherwise, you'll end up back in the exact same situation. Remember what you learned, and use it. By recognizing things that make you uneasy, standing your ground, confronting the situation, and moving on, you will gain invaluable information. You recognize what you will and will not accept in these situations, develop your strategies for how to handle conflict, and hone your conflict resolution skills. It is painful to be used, but it gives you the opportunity to demand respect and better treatment in the future.
Think about when he wants to spend time with you. Consider where he wants to spend time with you. Jot down a list of all these red flags and warning signs. Talk to friends and family that you trust. Decide what to do. Stop giving him what you think he wants. Tell your boyfriend you want to cool off for a bit if you think he's using you for sex or other physical affection. Protect your money if you think that's what your boyfriend wants. Notice the things he does for you. Recognize the difference between sweet compliments and flattery. Take some time to be alone. Plan a time to talk, and approach the situation calmly. Lay out your concerns. Let your boyfriend talk. Decide how you will move forward, either as a couple or alone. Remember what you learned, and use it.
https://www.wikihow.com/Level-a-Pool
How to Level a Pool
If you plan on setting up your own pool, you'll need to level the ground first so it doesn't spill water. While there are a few ways to level your new pool, use paver plates for a more secure and professional-looking job. After removing all of the grass where the pool will be installed, dig out any mounds and fill any holes until the area is flat. Once the ground is even, lay and connect the pool's bottom rails. Dig under every connection point between the rails so you can sink square pavers. Once this foundation is laid, fill the inside of the ring with sand, wet it, and tamp it down to make it compact. You're now ready to set up your pool on a level surface.
Dig out the sod to clear the area. Use a shovel to remove all the grass in the area where the pool will be installed. Also remove rocks and other debris. If there were plants in the area, dig down to get to any roots hidden under the soil. A sod cutter, rented from a hardware store, can help you clear large areas of grass with ease. Applying a grass and weed killer here is also useful. Removing all the plants now ensures that they won't grow back later and damage the pool. Move the dirt around until the area is flat. Hold a level against the ground. If the level doesn't lay flat, the soil needs to be adjusted. Dig out any high spots and fill holes with a shovel, then smooth out the soil by raking. No spot should be more than 2 in (5.1 cm) higher or lower than the rest of the area. Always be mindful when attempting to add material to level out low spots that the weight of the pool will compact the soil more than you can. Ideally you always want to dig down to level the ground, not just rely on adding soil to make things level. Lay and connect the pool’s bottom rails. Place the rails on the ground over the soil you leveled. Arrange them into a circle and push the ends together. Fasten the rails together according to the instructions in your owner's manual. To ensure that the rails are spaced properly, use a tape measure to gauge the diameter of the circle. The rails should be the same distance apart on all sides. Sink square pavers under the connected rails. Get a few 6 in × 6 in (15 cm × 15 cm) square paver plates from the home improvement store if they're not included with your pool. Place a plate wherever 2 rails connect. Dig under these connection points and place the plates so only the top shows above the soil. Use the level to ensure each plate is level and even with each other. Typically you will need to slide the rails into the grooves on the plates. Otherwise, leave the rails on top of the plates. Patio stones or blocks may be used in place of pavers. Fill the inside of the ring with sand. Start with 2 or 3 of bags of debris-free masonry sand from the home improvement store. Dump it into the circle made by the pool rails. Removing one of the pool rails may help make this easier. Add more sand as needed until you've got a uniform layer about 2 in (5.1 cm) high. Use a shovel or rake to move the sand around inside the circle. You want the sand to be distributed as evenly as possible under the pool's bottom. Wet the sand with a hose. Hook up a garden hose and soak the sand. Make sure all the sand gets wet so it solidifies. Keep spraying water until it begins to run off to the soil outside the circle. You will most likely need to do this again after tamping down the sand. Tamp down the sand to make it compact. Start on the ring's outside edges. Using a tamper from the hardware store or a heavy wooden block, press down on the sand. Work towards the middle to compact the sand as much as possible. When you no longer leave footprints in it, you can begin installing the pool. Check the sand's consistency by walking on it. If you leave footprints, water and tamp it down again. Shovel and rake the soil to get it level. Place a level against the soil in several spots across the circle. Shovel or rake the soil if necessary to ensure each area has a difference of no more than 2 in (5.1 cm). Instead of using a level, you can use string. Place stakes around the area's border and connect them with strings lowered onto the soil. The spots that don't reach the string are lower than the ones that do. Spread sand over the leveled area. Start with 2 or 3 bags of sand and get more as needed. Concrete sand tends to hold up best, but yellow or white sand are also safe to use. Rake the sand to distribute it evenly. Shovel in more sand as needed to level the area. More sand is needed to to level out lower areas, so dump more of the sand there. Lay a wooden beam across the sand. Pick up a 2 in × 4 in (5.1 cm × 10.2 cm) piece of wood from the store. It needs to span all the way across the area you're leveling. If 1 board is too short, get 2 or more boards and fasten them together using small brace pieces and deck screws. For instance, if your pool is 15 ft (4.6 m) wide, connect 2 8 ft (2.4 m) boards. Place a level on top of the beam. Set the level on top of the board and fasten it in place with masking tape. This makes it easy to use as a guide while moving the beam. If the level and board appear even with the ground, you'll know that the ground is flat enough for the pool. Insert a metal rod through the beam’s center. First, drill a ⁄ 8  in (9.5 mm) hole all the way through the board. You can use a tape measure to find the center point. Insert a ⁄ 8  in (0.95 cm) rod from the home improvement store into the hole, then hammer it into the ground. Pull 1 end of the board toward you to rotate it. Step into the circle and rotate the board by pulling 1 end toward you as you walk backwards. It will spin in place because of the metal rod. Keep an eye on the level to note when the ground appears uneven, and use the board to even out the sand. Your shoes will leave divots in the sand. These will fill in as you rotate the board. When you're done rotating it, step out of the circle and shovel sand into the remaining divots. Compact the sand by spraying it with a hose. Thoroughly wet the sand with water to compact and level it. The entire circle should be soaked so you can tamp the sand. If you'd like to rely on rain to compact the sand, wait until you've gotten about ⁄ 2  in (1.3 cm) of rain, which should be enough to completely soak the sand. Tamp down the sand until it doesn’t leave footprints. Get a tamper from the home improvement store or create one by weighing down a wood block with a heavy chain. Start on the outside edges of the circle and work inwards. Make sure you use the tamper tool everywhere to compact the sand. Walk on the sand to test it, and when you don't leave footprints, this area is ready for construction. The sand may need to be soaked and tamped down multiple times to be completely hardened.
Dig out the sod to clear the area. Move the dirt around until the area is flat. Lay and connect the pool’s bottom rails. Sink square pavers under the connected rails. Fill the inside of the ring with sand. Wet the sand with a hose. Tamp down the sand to make it compact. Shovel and rake the soil to get it level. Spread sand over the leveled area. Lay a wooden beam across the sand. Place a level on top of the beam. Insert a metal rod through the beam’s center. Pull 1 end of the board toward you to rotate it. Compact the sand by spraying it with a hose. Tamp down the sand until it doesn’t leave footprints.
https://www.wikihow.com/Discipline-a-2-Year-Old
How to Discipline a 2 Year Old
To discipline a 2 year old, use simple rules that focus on safety and respect for others. For example, you could make 1 rule “You can't take a toy from someone because it makes them feel sad.” Once your 2 year old knows the rules, try to be consistent by disciplining them every time they break a rule, not just some of the time. Time outs can be a good method of punishment because they allow your child to take a moment to think about what they did wrong. Just make sure to keep time outs short, no longer than 2 minutes, since toddlers have a pretty short attention span. Besides disciplining, you should praise your child whenever you see them following the rules, since positive reinforcement is even more effective than negative reinforcement.
Create boundaries by expressing simple rules. A 2 year old cannot recognize the boundaries between appropriate and inappropriate behavior unless you spell it out for them in their language. Keep the rules straightforward and essential, focusing on safety and respect for others. For example: “You have to stay buckled in your car seat to be safe in the car.” “You can't take a toy from someone without asking because it makes them feel sad.” “We don't hit when we're upset because it hurts the other person.” Ask them to repeat a rule or limit out loud. This will reinforce the limit and help them understand it. Whenever it's time to present a new rule, or remind them of an existing one, say something like “I'm going to tell you our rule about sharing and I want you to say it back to me.” Depending on their communication skills, it's fine to help them through repeating the rule. If they're distracted or aren't interested in taking part, wait until their attention returns to you, then say the rule again and have them repeat it. You can often turn this into something that's fun, as opposed to a chore. For example, you could create a habit of together saying "we always hold hands when we cross the street" anytime you walk up to an intersection. Strive to be consistent with the rules. If you won't be willing or able to stick to a rule in nearly every instance, it's usually better never to make the rule at all. A 2 year old won't understand how a rule can be important if it isn't enforced all the time. For example, your 2 year old won't understand the point of "no standing up in the bathtub" if you let them get away with it once in a while. If a rule needs to be changed or dropped, explain why in simple terms: “Now that you're bigger, you can stand up in the tub, but only when it's time to rinse off and get out.” Provide consistent routines that the rules fit into. Consistency reduces the feelings of “What's happening now?” and “Why are we doing this?” that can fuel resistance from toddlers. If, for example, you create a bedtime routine that starts at the same time and follows the same process every night, there will be less reason for the child to argue about it. Praise them whenever you catch them following the rules. Never miss an opportunity to praise them for good behavior. If they share a toy, say “Great job sharing, Ben!” If they stop playing without a fuss when you tell them it's lunchtime, tell them “Thanks for putting your toys down so quickly and coming for lunch.” For 2 year olds, positive reinforcement—praising good behavior—is more effective than negative reinforcement—punishing bad behavior. They crave your attention and approval, and will learn to act accordingly in order to get it. Don't shout at them or resort to physical punishment. You want to model appropriate behavior, which means keeping your cool even when something—like a misbehaving 2 year old—is frustrating you. Instead of shouting “Stop it!,” take a step back or turn away, breathe deeply a few times, and speak calmly but directly: “Tommy, you can't swing that around because you'll hit someone with it.” Spanking or other physical punishments aren't effective with small kids, in part because they'll struggle to connect it to their own actions. This is especially true if you spank them while you're upset—this tells them that anger and violence are appropriate responses to being upset. Make sure to get down on their eye level, remind them of the rule and why it exists, and have them repeat it back to you to ensure they understand. Do this right away. Don't wait to talk to them. Set up a specific place for time outs. Chose a spot that is quiet but not completely isolated. For instance, use a chair or a bench that is out of the way, or put a pillow on the ground in the corner of the room. The goal is not to put the 2 year old out of sight, but rather to give them a place to rest and regroup. Make sure the time out area is free from distractions and dangers. Most 2 year olds have abandonment issues, so don't close them off in their room unless it's the only available safe space. Whenever possible, remain within view of them. Explain the time out space. Use simple words and refer to the time out space as a place where your child can go to think about their actions when they do something wrong. When it's time to use the time out space, tell them they need a break or some quiet time. For instance, when identifying the time out space: “This chair is for time outs, and you'll sit here quietly when you need to think about something you've done wrong.” Or, when it's time to go there: “Jim, it's time for you to take a time out. You refused to put your toys away and you need to think about why you did that.” Think of it this way: the time out space isn't supposed to be a jail, it's meant to be a learning space. Put a 2 year old in time out for no more than 2 minutes. Many experts recommend limiting time outs to one minute per year of age—so, 2 minutes for a 2 year old. Your goal is to encourage good behavior, not to make the small child feel like they are bad. Also, 1 to 2 minutes can seem like an eternity to a 2 year old! You don't need to announce to them that the time out is for 2 minutes, or show them a timer. In fact, if the child has calmed down and seems ready to follow the rules, feel free to end the time out before the 2 minutes is up. Keeping a 2 year old in time out for longer than 2 minutes is unlikely to make them “get the message” any more clearly. Instead, it just makes it more likely that they'll refuse to stay put and require additional discipline. Praise them for staying in time out, and for good behavior after. You want the 2 year old to start identifying which actions get them in trouble and which actions bring them positive attention. When they're finished, say something like “Thanks for staying in time out quietly. Can you tell me why you had to go there?” If they don't want to tell you why they had to go to time out, go ahead and explain the reason to them once again. Look for any little things you can praise after the time out: “Thank you for putting your puzzle away, Annabelle.” Follow up the time out with a discussion of the rules. Be sure to follow the child's time out with a discussion of why it was necessary for you to give them a time out. Explain the rule to them and talk about why it exists. Then, have the child repeat the rule back to you to ensure that they understand. For example, you could say something like, “I had to give you a time out because you broke the rule about not hitting when you slapped your brother. It hurts when you hit people, so it is not okay to do that. So what is the rule again?” Permit the behavior that will provide natural consequences. This, of course, should only be done when there is no harm that can come to your child or anyone else. For example, if your child is in the habit of throwing their juice when in their high chair, let them throw the cup. Before handing them the cup, remind them of the rule and the consequences: "Remember, if you throw your cup, your juice will spill and you won't have any juice to drink." A mess on the floor might be annoying for you, but there's a good chance you'll need to clean the floor after a 2 year old's meal anyway. Explain the natural consequence. After they throw their cup on the floor, the 2 year old will undoubtedly ask for their juice. Point out that since they threw the juice, there is no more juice for them. For example: “I'm sorry, Kate, but your cup is empty now because you threw it on the floor. You don't have any more juice.” Reinforce what happened. You might need to explain the consequence more than once, until your toddler makes the connection between throwing the juice and not being able to have it. If they cry out “But I want my juice!” calmly reply that “When you throw your cup and spill your juice, there is no more juice to drink.” Even if they throw a tantrum , hold firm and remain calm. Ignore them (without leaving the room) until they've calmed down , and don't relent and give them more juice. Offer reminders when they're in the same situation. The next time the 2 year old is in a high chair, remind them not to throw their cup, or else there will be no more juice for them. It may take a few tries, but they'll eventually make the connection. For instance, once you hand them the juice cup, say “Now Jordan, remember that if you throw your juice cup, you won't have any more juice to drink.” Offer an alternate activity when they start misbehaving. 2 year olds have short attention spans and can be easily distracted. That means you can often redirect them away from bad behavior simply by distracting them with the mention of something else. For example, if they raise their arm to throw a block because their tower keeps falling, try something like “Hey, let's go outside and play with that new soccer ball you got” or “I want to bake a cake for tonight. Can you help me mix the batter?” Use redirection right before they start misbehaving, or right as it begins to occur. Otherwise, it might seem like you're rewarding them for misbehavior by offering a fun alternative. Use a different form of discipline if the misbehavior is well underway. Make the alternate, good behavior seem like lots of fun. You want them to associate good behavior not only with you being happy, but also with them having fun. Describe or demonstrate the positives of the alternate activity for them. If your 2 year old refuses to clean up their toys, for example, you could suggest that you play a game to see how fast they can do things. Get out a stopwatch and time them doing a few tasks, then say “Let's see how quickly you can put these toys away.” As you play your game of putting the toys away quickly, remind them why it's important to do so. If they still refuse to take part in putting the toys away, move on to another form of discipline. Direct them away from potential problems before they happen. You can proactively redirect 2 year olds as well. If they always end up getting into trouble in your room or the laundry room, keep the doors closed to these rooms. Centralize their favorite activities in rooms with fewer temptations or distractions, like a playroom or their bedroom. Be prepared with distractions when you leave the house. Whenever you leave the house with a 2 year old, always assume that you'll need to redirect them from bad to good behavior at least once, if not multiple times. Keep your bag stocked with a rotating array of distractions that will redirect their focus when needed. For instance, if a tantrum breaks out at the grocery store when you say no to a bag of candy, pull out a favorite fruit or a container of crackers from your bag to redirect the child's hunger or desire. Keep in mind that if distractions fail, you should have a talk with your child about the rules right away.
Create boundaries by expressing simple rules. Ask them to repeat a rule or limit out loud. Strive to be consistent with the rules. Provide consistent routines that the rules fit into. Praise them whenever you catch them following the rules. Don't shout at them or resort to physical punishment. Set up a specific place for time outs. Explain the time out space. Put a 2 year old in time out for no more than 2 minutes. Praise them for staying in time out, and for good behavior after. Follow up the time out with a discussion of the rules. Permit the behavior that will provide natural consequences. Explain the natural consequence. Reinforce what happened. Offer reminders when they're in the same situation. Offer an alternate activity when they start misbehaving. Make the alternate, good behavior seem like lots of fun. Direct them away from potential problems before they happen. Be prepared with distractions when you leave the house.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Vegetable-Broth
How to Make Vegetable Broth
To make vegetable broth, start by placing chopped vegetables in a large stockpot, and sauté them in the oil of your choice for 5 minutes. Next, add water, thyme, bay leaf, parsley, and peppercorns. Bring the broth to a boil and simmer for 1 hour. Then, strain the broth by pouring it into a colander placed over a large bowl or pot. Use the broth immediately, or store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 week. Alternatively, store the broth in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Wash and chop the vegetables. Rinse the carrots and celery under running water, and use your finger to scrub away visible dirt. Pat the vegetables dry with a clean towel. Transfer the vegetables to a cutting board, and use a sharp knife to cut them into 1-inch (2.5-cm) chunks. You can use any vegetables you like to make this broth, including tomatoes, mushrooms, parsnips, leeks, and green onions. Avoid starchy vegetables like potatoes, because they can make the broth cloudy. Don't use broccoli, beans, zucchini, and cabbage to make the broth, because they can become bitter when simmered for too long. Sauté the vegetables for five minutes. Drizzle the oil into a Dutch oven or large stockpot. Turn the heat to medium and preheat the oil for two minutes. Transfer the vegetables to the stockpot and cook them for about five minutes, until they're soft and fragrant. Cooking the vegetables first will make for a more flavorful broth. Cover the vegetables with water and add the aromatics. Pour the water into the stockpot with the vegetables. Add the thyme, bay leaf, parsley, and peppercorns to the pot as well. Other aromatics you can add to flavor the broth include: Ginger Lemongrass Rosemary Parmesan rinds Garlic Fennel Boil the broth and simmer it for an hour. Cover the pot with a lid and turn the heat to medium-high. Keep a close eye on the broth and bring it to a boil. As soon as it starts to bubble, reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue cooking the broth for an hour. Strain the broth. After an hour, remove the broth from the heat. Place a colander inside a large glass bowl or stockpot. Pour the broth through the colander and into the bowl below to strain out the vegetables. For a very clear broth, line the colander with cheesecloth or paper towel before straining out the vegetables. Use the broth and store leftovers for later. Once the broth has been strained, it's ready to eat or use in your favorite recipes. Leftover broth can be stored in the refrigerator for up to a week, or in the freezer for as long as three months. Chop the vegetables. Rinse the carrots, celery, and tomatoes under running water. Pat them dry with a clean towel. Cut these vegetables, the onion, and the mushrooms into cubes that are about 1 inch (2.5 cm). In this recipe, the mushrooms and tomatoes add a meatiness to the broth that makes it hearty and delicious. Roasting the vegetables before making the broth helps to make a rich broth with a lot of depth. Roast the vegetables. Transfer the carrots, celery, tomatoes, onions, and whole garlic cloves to a large baking or roasting dish. Drizzle oil over the vegetables and transfer them to a preheated 425 °F (218 °C) oven. Cook the vegetables for 40 minutes, stirring them every 10 to 15 minutes. Roasting the vegetables before making the broth will add a rich and meaty flavor to the broth. Transfer the vegetables to a stockpot. When the vegetables are soft and browned, remove them from the oven. Use a spoon to scoop out the roasted vegetables and move them into a large stockpot or saucepan. Add the remaining ingredients. In the stockpot, combine the roasted vegetables with the parsley, thyme, bay leaves, and salt. Cover the mixture with the water and put a lid on the stockpot. For additional flavors and spiciness, you can also add a teaspoon (2 g) each of coriander seeds and whole peppercorns to the broth. Boil and simmer the broth. Turn the heat to medium and bring the broth to a boil. When it starts to boil, reduce the heat to medium-low and move the lid aside so the stockpot is only partially covered. Continue simmering the broth for another 45 minutes. Strain the broth. Place a colander inside a large glass bowl or pot. Pour the broth into the colander to strain out the vegetables, leaving nothing but a clear broth in the bowl below. Instead of straining the broth, you can also leave the veggies in and eat this as a tasty vegetable soup. Enjoy your broth. The strained broth is ready to be eaten or added to your favorite soups, stews, and other dishes. If you have leftovers, transfer them to a glass jar and store them in the refrigerator for up to a week. For longer storage, transfer the broth to a freezer-safe container and store for up to three months. Make soup or stew. Homemade soups and stews are wonderful for warming up on a cold night, but they're also great as appetizers before a meal. There are many different types of soups you can make with a basic vegetable broth, including: Vegetarian French onion Vegetable soup Lentil soup Beef stew Try homemade risotto. Risotto is a creamy rice dish that you can make with meat, fish, or vegetable broth. The trick with risotto is to keep the broth warm, and to add it to the rice in small increments. This gives the rice time to fully soak up the broth, which makes it creamy and soft. You can use vegetable broth to make any grains, including basic rice, quinoa, and polenta. Whip up some gravy. There's no better way to finish mashed potatoes, French fries, meats, and savory pies than with homemade gravy. To make a simple gravy with your vegetable broth: Heat a cup (235 ml) of the broth in a small saucepan Whisk together in a small bowl a teaspoon (2 g) of cornstarch and just enough water to dissolve cornstarch Pour the cornstarch slurry into the hot broth Bring the broth to a boil, whisking regularly Add salt, pepper, or additional spices if desired
Wash and chop the vegetables. Sauté the vegetables for five minutes. Cover the vegetables with water and add the aromatics. Boil the broth and simmer it for an hour. Strain the broth. Use the broth and store leftovers for later. Chop the vegetables. Roast the vegetables. Transfer the vegetables to a stockpot. Add the remaining ingredients. Boil and simmer the broth. Strain the broth. Enjoy your broth. Make soup or stew. Try homemade risotto. Whip up some gravy.
https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Basa-Fillets
How to Cook Basa Fillets
To cook basa fillets, start by placing each piece of fish in the center of a piece of aluminum foil. Season the fillets with salt, pepper, 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and a slice of lemon. You can also add fresh herbs, such as parsley or oregano. Then, fold the foil into the center so the fillets are sealed inside, which will help the fish steam as it cooks. When you're ready to start cooking, heat half of your grill to high heat. Next, place the packages on the cool side of the grill and cook them for 15 minutes. If the fish isn't ready after that time, return it to the grill for another 2 to 3 minutes. Finally, serve the basa fillets with grilled peppers.
Place basa fillets on pieces of aluminum foil. Tear off 4 pieces of aluminum foil that are about 18 to 20 inches (46 to 51 cm) long. Place 1 basa fillet lengthwise on the center of each piece of aluminum foil. Season the fish with salt, pepper, oil, lemon, and herbs. Drizzle 1 teaspoon (4.9 ml) of olive oil over each fillet. Then sprinkle salt and pepper over both sides of them. Divide the thinly sliced lemon between the fish and place a fresh herb sprig on top. Use your favorite fresh herbs, such as parsley, rosemary, or oregano. Seal the foil packets. Gather both sides of a foil sheet and bring them together towards the center. Fold the edges lengthwise and at the ends so the fish is completely sealed inside the foil packet. The foil will trap the steam as the fish grills. Heat half of a grill to high. If you're using a gas grill, turn the burners on 1 side of the grill to high and leave the other burners off. If you're using a charcoal grill , fill a chimney with briquettes and light them. Dump the hot coals on 1 side of the grill and leave the other side empty. Keep the lid of the grill closed as you heat it. Place the foil packets over indirect heat on the grill and cover it. Arrange the 4 foil packets on the hot grill. It's important to set them on the cooler side that doesn't have the burners on or the hot coals. Put the lid back down on the grill. Grill the basa fillets for 10 to 15 minutes. If you have thin fillets, begin checking them after they've been on the grill for 10 minutes. To test, put on oven mitts and carefully open a packet with tongs. Then drag the tines of a fork across the center of the fillet. If it's opaque and flakes easily, the basa is done. If the fish isn't done, seal the packet back up and put it back on the grill. Check it in another 2 to 3 minutes. Use caution when opening the hot packet since steam will escape. Serve the grilled basa fillets. Once the fish is done, transfer the foil packets to a plate. Open each packet and put the grilled fish on serving plates. Consider serving the fish with grilled peppers, potato salad , or a garden salad. Refrigerate leftover fish in an airtight container for up to 3 or 4 days. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C) and lay the fish on a baking sheet. Place 4 basa fillets on the sheet so they're in a single layer. You'll also need to move an oven rack to the center of the oven. Season the basa with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Sprinkle the fillets with 1 teaspoon (2 g) of ground black pepper, 1 teaspoon (5.5 g) of salt, and 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of lemon juice from 1 lemon over both sides of the fillets. Freshly squeezed lemon juice will have the strongest flavor, but you can use bottled lemon juice. Marinate the fish for 15 minutes. Set the fish aside while you combine the spice mixture. The basa will absorb the flavors of the salt, pepper, and lemon juice as it marinates. Since the fish is marinating briefly, you can leave it at room temperature. Combine the oil, chili, ginger, garlic, and tomato puree. Pour 4 tablespoons (59 ml) of vegetable oil into a small bowl and add 2 tablespoons (32 g) of red chili paste. Stir in 2 teaspoons (4 g) of grated fresh ginger, 4 cloves of minced garlic, and 4 tablespoons (55 g) of tomato puree. Coat the basa with the spicy mixture. Spoon the spicy mixture evenly over each fillet on the baking sheet. Use the back of the spoon to spread it so the fillets are completely coated. Bake the spicy basa for 20 to 25 minutes. Put the baking sheet in the preheated oven and cook the fish until it flakes when you drag a fork across the center. You can also insert an instant-read thermometer into the center to see if the fish has reached 145 °F (63 °C). Remove and serve the spicy basa fillets. Turn off the oven and remove the baking sheet. Serve the hot fish with steamed rice and roasted vegetables. If you'd like to store leftover fish, put the fillets into an airtight container and refrigerate them for up to 3 days. Combine the cornmeal, 3 tablespoons (24 g) of the flour, and spices. Put 3/4 cup (115 g) of cornmeal into a pie plate or shallow bowl. Add 3 tablespoons (24 g) of the flour along with 1 1/2 teaspoons (8.25 g) of salt, 1 teaspoon (2 g) of garlic powder, and 1/2 teaspoon (1 g) of cayenne pepper. Whisk until the spices are well mixed. Set up a dredging station with the egg and remaining flour. Get out 2 more shallow pie plates or bowls. Put the remaining 1/2 cup (52 g) of flour in 1 of the plates and crack 1 egg into the other. Add 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of water to the bowl with the egg and whisk it until the egg is blended. Diluting the egg with water will make it easier to coat the fish. Heat the vegetable oil for 4 minutes. Pour 1 ⁄ 2 cups (350 ml) of vegetable oil into a large skillet or pot and turn the burner to medium-high. Let the oil heat for 4 minutes so it begins to simmer. If you prefer, use another oil with a high smoke point, such as peanut or canola oil. Coat the fish in flour, egg, and cornmeal. Lay 4 basa fillets in the bowl with the flour and turn them over so they're coated. Transfer the floured fillets to the beaten egg and flip them over so they're covered. Then lift each fillet up so the excess egg drips back down. Lower the fillets into the cornmeal and turn them to coat. The flour and egg breading will become crunchy as they fry and moisture evaporates from the breading. Fry 2 of the fillets for 4 to 5 minutes. Once the oil is hot and you've coated the fish, slowly lower the fillets into the skillet. Leave the fish to fry for 2 minutes and then carefully flip them over to fry for 2 more minutes. The fish should be golden brown and crispy. If you drag the tines of a fork through the flesh, it should flake easily. Let the oil heat back up before you add the remaining basa fillets. Try using 2 spatulas to turn the fillets so they don't break. Serve the pan-fried basa fillets. Turn off the burner once you've finished frying all the fillets. Transfer the fried fish to a paper-towel lined plate and then serve them while they're still hot. Garnish the fish with wedges of lemon and a sprinkle of salt. Crispy basa fillets are great with potato salad or a garden salad. Since the fish will become soggy, avoid storing the pan-fried basa fillets.
Place basa fillets on pieces of aluminum foil. Season the fish with salt, pepper, oil, lemon, and herbs. Seal the foil packets. Heat half of a grill to high. Place the foil packets over indirect heat on the grill and cover it. Grill the basa fillets for 10 to 15 minutes. Serve the grilled basa fillets. Preheat the oven to 350 °F (177 °C) and lay the fish on a baking sheet. Season the basa with salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Marinate the fish for 15 minutes. Combine the oil, chili, ginger, garlic, and tomato puree. Coat the basa with the spicy mixture. Bake the spicy basa for 20 to 25 minutes. Remove and serve the spicy basa fillets. Combine the cornmeal, 3 tablespoons (24 g) of the flour, and spices. Set up a dredging station with the egg and remaining flour. Heat the vegetable oil for 4 minutes. Coat the fish in flour, egg, and cornmeal. Fry 2 of the fillets for 4 to 5 minutes. Serve the pan-fried basa fillets.
https://www.wikihow.com/Light-a-Grill
How to Light a Grill
To light a charcoal grill, start by removing grease and burnt-on fats by scrubbing the grill with a metal-bristle brush. Next, open the vents at the bottom to make lighting easier. If your grill doesn't have a chimney starter, pour charcoal into the grill, and stack it in a cone shape in the middle before adding a bit of lighter fluid to the bricks. If you have a chimney starter, add charcoal to the starter, place rolled-up newspaper in the holes near the bottom and light them on fire with a match or lighter.
Practice fire safety. Whenever working with open flames, it's important to take precautions. Keep a fire extinguisher nearby when you're grilling. If you're using a propane grill, check for any leaks and ensure that any tubes and fittings are secure. Gather your tools. Whatever kind of grill you have, there are a few essential tools you'll need to get your grill started. Tongs. You'll need these to spread the coal around. Long matches or a grill lighter. If you don't have long matches, you can light a piece of paper with a small match and use it to light the coals. Oven mitts. Clean the grill. Remove all ash and grease from your grill, scrubbing with a grill brush to remove any burnt-on fats. Wipe down the cleaned grate with cooking oil. If you're working with a gas grill, heat it up before cleaning. Then use a grill brush to scrape off the loosened food and debris. Cooking with a dirty grill can impart unpleasant flavors to your food. If you don't have a grill brush, any metal-bristled brush will work. Open the vents if you’re using a charcoal grill. Charcoal grills have vents on the bottom of the grill. These vents allow air to enter the grill and stoke the fire. Opening the vents will make it easier to light the charcoal. The vent will usually be a circular disk on the bottom of the grill that you can twist to open the air holes. Pour the charcoal into the grill. The amount of charcoal will vary based on the size of your grill, but a good rule of thumb to follow is to add enough to form two layers on the bottom of the grill. Once you've added enough, stack the charcoal into a cone or pyramid shape in the center of the grill. Soak the coals with lighter fluid if necessary. Check your bag of coals to see if they require lighter fluid or if they are pre-treated. If they require lighter fluid, carefully pour it onto the cone of coals, focusing on the center. The amount of lighter fluid you should use will vary, but a good approximation is adding 1/4 cup (60 ml) of fluid per 1 lb. (450 g) of charcoal. If your coals are pre-treated with lighter fluid, you don't need to add additional lighter fluid. Allow the lighter fluid to soak into the coals for approximately thirty minutes before lighting. Light the coals. Use long fireplace matches to light the cone. Light several areas of the coals to ensure that the fire takes to the whole pile. You can discard the matches directly into the grill if desired. Allow the coals to burn until they are all grayish-white on the surface. Spread the coals evenly across the bottom of the grill. Use a long-handled instrument, such as a pair of tongs. Put the grate into place and close the grill's lid. Let the coals burn until the edges turn grey. This should take about five-to-ten minutes. Pack charcoal into a chimney starter. Place the chimney starter on the open grill. Most chimney starters will hold approximately one-hundred coals. How much charcoal you need will depend on how hot your want your grill. For high heat, fill the chimney. For medium heat, fill it halfway. For low heat, fill it one-quarter full. Add newspaper to the chimney starter. Your chimney starter has a spot on the bottom to add paper. Fill the space with one or two pieces of paper. Any kind of paper works. For example, if you have old newspapers lying around you can use them to start your chimney. You don't need to add lighter fluid to the charcoal when you use a chimney starter. Light the paper. Use a long match or lighter to set the paper alight. Light it on several spots to ensure the fire spreads. As the paper burns, it will ignite the charcoal in your chimney. Watch the coals to make sure they begin to turn grey. If not, light another piece of paper under your chimney. Pour out the coals. When most of the coals are grey and you start to see flames on top of your chimney, pour the coals out into your grill. Spread the coals evenly across the bottom of the grill with a long-handled instrument, such as a pair of tongs. Ensure that the propane tank is filled and connected properly. The fitting for the hoses should be tight and you shouldn't smell gas leaking out. Most propane tanks have a gauge that tells you when they need to be refilled. Refer to your grill's user manual to make sure that your fuel tank is connected securely and has enough propane in it to cook with. Open the valve on your gas tank. Slowly turn the valve until it is fully open to release the gas. Leave it open for approximately one minute to allow the gas to travel through the fuel line. Open the first burner. Using the knob on the front of the grill, turn the first burner to the “High/Start” setting. This will allow the propane to begin flowing through this burner. Ignite the burner. After allowing the propane to flow through the burner, press the igniter button on the front of your grill to ignite the gas from that burner. If the igniter button does not work, light the burner manually by holding a lit match against it with the gas on. Turn on the gas and hold a match near the ignition burner. Turn the knob to “High/Start.” The burner should ignite. If the burner does not ignite with the button or a match within ten seconds, turn off the gas and wait a few minutes before trying again. Leaving the gas on can lead to propane accumulating dangerously in the air. Open and ignite the remaining burners. Turn the knob for each burner to the “High/Start” position. It's likely that the new burners will ignite on their own from the fire of the first burner. If not, press the igniter button again or light the burners with a long match. Leave the burners on the “High” setting and close the grill’s lid. Allow the grill to heat up for at least five minutes before cooking anything.
Practice fire safety. Gather your tools. Clean the grill. Open the vents if you’re using a charcoal grill. Pour the charcoal into the grill. Soak the coals with lighter fluid if necessary. Light the coals. Spread the coals evenly across the bottom of the grill. Pack charcoal into a chimney starter. Add newspaper to the chimney starter. Light the paper. Pour out the coals. Ensure that the propane tank is filled and connected properly. Open the valve on your gas tank. Open the first burner. Ignite the burner. Open and ignite the remaining burners. Leave the burners on the “High” setting and close the grill’s lid.
https://www.wikihow.com/Cut-up-a-Whole-Chicken
How to Cut up a Whole Chicken
To cut up a whole chicken, start by using your hands to pull the legs away from the body, and cut through the cartilage where the hip and leg bones connect to separate the legs. Then, separate the thighs and drumsticks by cutting through the thin line of fat the runs through the joints. Next, cut the breast of the chicken away from the back by following along with the ribs, and cut the breast meat off the bone. Finally, bend the wings and separate them from the body.
Remove the whole chicken from the packaging. Discard the packaging. You can also cut up a whole chicken you have just cooked. If you have just cooked the chicken, let it cool for at least 10 minutes. The chicken continues to cook even after you have taken it out of the oven. Letting it 'rest' will allow it to cook fully. If you are cutting up a whole, cooked chicken, disregard the next two steps. Check the internal cavity for gizzards, the neck, and other organs. These may be packaged in a bag or could be loose. If found, remove and keep for other uses or discard. Rinse the chicken in cold water. Do not use hot or warm water, as water with any increased temperature can lead the promotion of bacterial growth. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels. Place the chicken on a cutting board, breast up. Placing the chicken so that the breast is up will make it easier to see what you are doing. Use your left hand to grasp the chicken’s left leg. Pull it away from the body. You want to be able to see where the leg and hip bones connect. You can also use a carving fork to hold the chicken in place while you pull the leg away from the body. Use a sharp carving knife to cut through the skin. Cutting through the skin on the side of the chicken will allow you to better see where the leg and body meet. Pull the leg out as far as you can. Use the carving knife to cut through the hip joint to remove the entire leg. By pulling the leg out, you create right angle that is easier to cut through. Cut through the cartilage where the hip and leg bones connect. Cutting through the cartilage will give you a clean cut without splintering any bone. Repeat these steps on the other leg. Place the leg so that it is skin-side down on the cutting board. It is generally easier to cut through the meat of the chicken first before working your way through the skin (which may need to be cut with a serrated knife.) The drumstick is the smaller part of the leg while the thigh is the larger, meatier part. Grasp both sides of the leg which each hand. Bend the leg backwards in the opposite direction of natural movement. Doing this will help you to find the back of the knee joint between the drumstick and thigh, which is the easiest place to cut. Locate the fat line. The fat line is a thin, white line that runs along the joint between the drumstick and thigh. Cut along the fat line, separating the joint and thus the drumstick and thigh. Repeat these steps on the other leg. Locate the place where the breast and back meet. This spot is along the ribs where the white breast meat swells out from the body. Use a sawing motion to cut through the ribs from back to front. Do not cut from front to back, as doing so will give you a less secure grip on the meat, which could result in sloppy cuts or even cutting yourself. When you have cut the breast from the back, you will have a whole breast cut and the back section in two pieces. You can also cut along the breastbone, again starting at the back of the bird. Cut through the wishbone when you get to it. Angle the knife and cut down towards the wing, running the knife along the wishbone. Make a cut between the breast and the wing. Another option is to pop out the keel bone by bending the breast halves backwards. Remove the keel bone and cut the breast into halves through the wishbone. Lay the whole breast on the cutting board. Pressing hard, push the center down into the cutting board with the flat of your hand. This motion is to help separate the breast bone. Slice the breast from the bone. Run your knife through the center of the breast, down along the bone. Insert your thumb along this cut to loosen the meat from the bone. If you want boneless breast meat, cut the bone away on either side and lift it out. You may need to break the cartilage to achieve removing the breast bone. If you want to keep the bone in the meat, split the bone with your knife and holding both sides, break the bone apart. Bend the wing away from the body. Bend it in the opposite of the natural movement, extending the wing. This will help you find the shoulder joint. Use your carving knife to cut through the joint. Again, make sure to cut through the cartilage between the ends of the bones, so as not to produce any bone shards. Cut the wing into two pieces. Bend the wing back at the elbow joint. Cut through the elbow joint. Repeat this process with the other wing. Finished.
Remove the whole chicken from the packaging. Check the internal cavity for gizzards, the neck, and other organs. Rinse the chicken in cold water. Place the chicken on a cutting board, breast up. Use your left hand to grasp the chicken’s left leg. Use a sharp carving knife to cut through the skin. Pull the leg out as far as you can. Cut through the cartilage where the hip and leg bones connect. Place the leg so that it is skin-side down on the cutting board. Grasp both sides of the leg which each hand. Locate the fat line. Locate the place where the breast and back meet. Use a sawing motion to cut through the ribs from back to front. Lay the whole breast on the cutting board. Slice the breast from the bone. Insert your thumb along this cut to loosen the meat from the bone. Bend the wing away from the body. Use your carving knife to cut through the joint. Cut the wing into two pieces. Finished.
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Magic-Wand
How to Use a Magic Wand
To use your magic wand, first charge it by transmitting energy to it through your hands or another source like natural moonlight or a pyramid charger. When you're ready to use your wand, vigorously rub your hands together for around 10 seconds to open your energy pathways so energy can flow from your center to your wand. Once you're done, grip the wand with your dominant hand in whatever way feels comfortable. Before you cast a spell, focus your intention so you can be clear about what you're planning. With this in mind, make simple strokes with your wand to physically express your intention. You can also sing out an incantation as you use your wand to send out more vibrations into the universe.
Charge your wand. You can charge your wand by transmitting energy from yourself into the wand. Usually do this through the hands by holding the wand in both hands. Other methods include: Pyramid chargers. Placing the wand in a specially built pyramid charger can give it a strong charge. Pyramids can transmit energy to other items as well, and can send energy over long distances. Natural light sources. Sunlight or moonlight, particularly strong moonlight from a full moon, are also powerful sources of wand energy. Use desirable energy sources. This is often yourself, but be aware that wands are sensitive to other energy sources as well. Since, you don't want to charge your wand with unwanted energy, protect your wand with a covering. This could be a cloth or a pouch, for example. Black, blue, or purple pouch coloration and celestial designs are often popular. Be careful of depleting yourself of energy when self-charging the wand. If you feel this happening, be sure to draw energy toward the center of your body: upward from the feet and downward from your head. Change your wand’s power level as appropriate to its capabilities. For example, if your wand's magic powers were provided by an herb bag, you may want to keep herbs handy for when you are running low on magic. Cleanse your wand periodically. This is a way of ridding your wand of unwanted, negative energy prior to recharging it from a new, desirable energy source. There are a variety of ways to cleanse a wand. Just make sure that whatever method you use doesn't damage the wand. So, be careful of smoke, fire, and water damage when implementing the methods below. Selenite is a common cleanser. Selenite, often used synonymously with gypsum, is the transparent variety of the gypsum mineral. You can put your wand in contact with selenite for any length of time, and anywhere from a couple of hours to several days is common. Sage smoke is another method. Light the sage, and allow the smoke to circulate around the wand. Flowing water cleanses as well. Holding your wand in a river, stream, waterfall, or other flowing natural water source can wash away negative energy. Prepare your hands. Rub your hands together vigorously up and down and side to side for approximately 10 seconds or more prior to holding and using a wand. This will open the energy pathways in your hands, which is crucial to transferring energy to the wand. Hold the wand in your right hand for most activities. According to most texts, the wand should be held in the right hand while praying or while summoning or addressing spirits. When dismissing spirits, however, hold the wand in the opposite hand. In this way, the wand is a sort of defensive weapon. Alternatively, hold the wand in your dominant hand or writing hand. Think of the wand as transferring energy from your dominant hand to your other, receiving hand. Energy should flow from your center, through your arm and hand, and out the point of your wand to the receiving hand. Maintain a comfortable grip. Feel around the wand for a comfortable spot to grip it. Listen to the wand to hear how best to hold onto it. Find spells necessary for your wand's potential ability. Try to listen to your wand and become attuned to its abilities. Some say that the wand finds the wizard. When you are in tune with your wand, you'll know what spells you can cast with it. Common spells include: Love spells to attract love, seduce a mate, or heal a broken heart. Beauty spells. These often encompass height or weight adjustment or improving self-image. Money spells that focus on wealth, prosperity, power, or good fortune. Protection spells to shield someone from negative energy, to protect a home or specific place, and to ward off dark magic, for example. Clearly focus your inner intention. This is important prior to using a wand. There are several considerations to take into account before casting a spell. Consider what you plan on calling for--exactly what you want--and think about how this will bring yourself harmony. Determine whether or not your use of the wand will cause harm, and specifically how it will affect others. Make strokes with the wand. Strokes are simply the movements that you make with your wand. They are a way of bringing your inner intentions to the external world. Different people use a different number of strokes when casting a spell. It might be helpful to think of each stroke as forming a letter. Some say this is how the word spell came into being—by spelling out your intention with strokes. Perform incantations with your wand. Incantations are sung spells. The word comes from the Latin stem “canto,” which means to sing. Incantations put out powerful vibrations into the universe, and entrust your will to whatever higher deity you ascribe to. Practice the spells you have chosen to perform. Like anything else, practice is necessary to make a spell work. Sometimes a spell might not come to fruition for a period of years. In other instances, you'll see more imminent results that show your energy manifesting itself in the universe. Direct your wand toward an afflicted area for physical healing. The wand does not need to touch the area, but it should be pointed away from you and toward the target area. You might make circular motions with the wand and incorporate a prayer, mantra, or incantation. These might include: Meditations or visualizations that ground or focus you. Invocations of a god, goddess, or nature spirit. Prayers about nature and natural subject matter, including seasonal prayers and incantations during a full moon. Clear away any physical blockages. Since wands transmit energy, they improve energy flow through the body. This can be applied to breaking down blockages in a variety of systems, such as the circulatory and nervous systems. Clear away blockages by pointing the wand at the blocked area or areas, and focusing your energy and any verbal prayers or mantras that you might like to use. Expel negative psychological energy from yourself. In this case, you would point the wand toward yourself. Meditate on the negative thoughts and feelings, and allow the wand to draw them out. You might speak your wishes at this point as well. Reduce stress and nervousness. Wands help clear blocked pathways that help release stress, nervousness, and other negative energy. Align chakras and auras. Many people do this while lying down. Run the wand over your body and focus on when and where the wand vibrates. These areas require more attention from the wand. Once the wand stops vibrating, your auras are cleansed.
Charge your wand. Change your wand’s power level as appropriate to its capabilities. Cleanse your wand periodically. Prepare your hands. Hold the wand in your right hand for most activities. Alternatively, hold the wand in your dominant hand or writing hand. Maintain a comfortable grip. Find spells necessary for your wand's potential ability. Clearly focus your inner intention. Make strokes with the wand. Perform incantations with your wand. Practice the spells you have chosen to perform. Direct your wand toward an afflicted area for physical healing. Clear away any physical blockages. Expel negative psychological energy from yourself. Align chakras and auras.
https://www.wikihow.com/Determine-Cubic-Yards
How to Determine Cubic Yards
To determine cubic yards for pouring concrete, start by finding the square footage of the area you'll be filling in. If the area is square or rectangular, you can find the square footage by multiplying the length by the width. Once you have the square footage, measure how deep the mold you're filling in is. Finally, divide 324 by the depth of the mold and then multiply that number by the square footage to find out how many cubic yards you need.
Obtain all necessary measurements in yards. Cubic yard volumes can be obtained relatively easily for a variety of standard three-dimensional spaces via a few simple equations. However, these equations assume that all measurements have been taken in yards. Thus, before using one of these equations, it's important to ensure that you took your initial measurement(s) in yards or, alternatively, that you converted them into yards via a conversion factor. A few conversions for common measurements of length are below: 1 yard = 3 feet 1 yard = 36 inches 1 yard = 0.914 meters 1 yard = 91.44 centimeters Use the equation L × W × H for rectangular spaces. The volume of any rectangular three-dimensional space (rectangular prism, cuboid, etc.), can be determined simply by multiplying its length times its width times its height. This equation can also be thought of as multiplying the surface area of one of the rectangular space's faces by the dimension perpendicular to that face. For example, let's say we want to determine the volume (in yd ) of the dining room in our house. We measure the dining room to be 4 yd long, 3 yd wide, and 2.5 yd high. To determine the room's volume, we simply multiply its length, width, and height: 4 × 3 × 2.5 = 12 × 2.5 = 30. The room has a volume of 30 yd. Cubes are rectangular spaces where all sides are equal in length. Thus, a cube's volume equation can be shortened from L × W × H to L , etc. For cylindrical spaces, use the equation pi × R2 × H. Finding the volume of a cylindrical space is simply a matter of multiplying the two-dimensional area of one of its circular faces by the height or length of the cylinder. Find the area of its circular face via the area equation for circles: multiply the mathematical constant pi (3.1415926...) by the circle's radius (the distance from the center of the circle to one of its edges) times itself. Then, simply multiply this answer by the height of the cylinder to find the cylinder's volume. As always, ensure all values are in yards. For example, let's say we want to determine the volume of a cylindrical hole in our back patio before installing a fountain. The hole is 1.5 yards across and 1 yard deep. Divide the distance across the hole in half to get the hole's radius: 0.75 yards. Then, multiply your variables according to the cylindrical volume equation: (3.14159) × 0.75 × 1 = (3.14159) × 0.5625 × 1 = 1.767. The hole has a volume of 1.767 yd. For spheres, use the equation 4/3 pi × R3. To calculate the volume of a sphere in cubic yards, all you need to know is its radius - the distance from its center to its outside edge - in yards. Simply cube this number (multiply it by itself two times), then multiply it by 4/3 pi to get the sphere's volume in cubic yards. For example, let's say we want to find the volume inside a spherical hot air balloon. The hot air balloon is 10 yards across. Divide 10 in half to find the balloon's radius - 5 yards. Then, simply plug this into the equation for "R" as follows: 4/3 pi × (5) = 4/3 (3.14159) × 125 = 4.189 × 125 = 523.6. There are 523.6 yd in the balloon. For cones, use the equation 1/3 pi × R2 × H. The volume of a given cone is 1/3 the volume of a cylinder that has the same height and radius as the cone. Simply find the height and radius of a cone (in yards), then solve as if finding the volume of a cylinder. Multiply your result by 1/3 to get the volume of your cone. For example, let's say that we want to find the volume of an ice cream cone. The ice cream cone is fairly small - it has a radius of 1 inch and a height of 5 inches. Converted to yards, these are.028 yards and.139 yards, respectively. Solve as follows: 1/3 (3.14159) ×.028 ×.139 = 1/3 (3.14159) × 0.000784 ×.139 = 1/3 × 0.000342 = 1.141. There are 1.141 yd in the ice cream cone. For irregular shapes, try using multiple equations. When confronted with a three-dimensional shape that doesn't have an elegant equation for its volume, try to break the space up into multiple spaces whose volume (in cubic yards) can be more easily calculated. Then, find the volume of these spaces individually, adding your results to find the final volume value. Let's say, for instance, that we want to find the volume of a small grain silo. The silo has a cylindrical body 12 yards high with a radius of 1.5 yards. The silo also has a conic roof that is 1 yard high. By calculating the volume of the roof and the body of the silo separately, we can find the silo's total volume: Pi × R × H + 1/3 Pi × R' × H' (3.14159) × 1.5 × 12 + 1/3 (3.14159) × 1.5 × 1 = (3.14159) × 2.25 × 12 + 1/3 (3.14159) × 2.25 × 1 = (3.14159) × 27 + 1/3 (3.14159) × 2.25 = 84.822 + 2.356 = 87.178. The silo has a volume of 87.178 cubic yards. Find the square footage of the area where you're pouring. When pouring concrete to, for instance, make a concrete patio, you're usually pouring concrete into a mold several inches to a foot thick. In this case, it's not necessary to use relatively complex formulas to determine the volume of concrete you'll need. Instead, use a contractor's trick to quickly figure the amount of concrete you need. Begin by finding the square footage of the area you're pouring into. Remember - for square footage, we take our measurements in feet, not in yards, as above. As a reminder, for squares or rectangles, this area can be found by multiplying Length × Width. For circles, it's Pi × R. For more complex shapes, browse wikiHow's many surface-area calculation guides. Find how thick your concrete must be. This is simple - just measure the depth of the mold you're pouring into. Because we're pouring into a relatively shallow mold, we can take our measurements in inches, rather than having to measure in unwieldy fractions of a foot. Divide your square footage by a coefficient based on the thickness of your concrete. All you need to do to determine your concrete yardage is to divide your number for square footage by a certain number - if your concrete needs to be thin, this number will be bigger. If your concrete needs to be thick, this number will be smaller. See below for common thicknesses, or proceed to the next step if your thickness doesn't match one of these: If the concrete is 4 inches thick, divide the square footage by 81 to determine cubic yards. If the concrete is 6 inches thick, divide the square footage by 54 to determine cubic yards. If the concrete is 8 inches thick, divide the square footage by 40 to determine cubic yards. If the concrete is 12 inches thick, divide the square footage by 27 to determine cubic yards. Determine odd thicknesses via simple formula. If you have a thickness that doesn't match any of the above examples, don't worry - it's easy to find the amount you need. Simply divide 324 over the thickness of your concrete (in inches). Then, multiply the answer by your square footage to determine the total concrete yardage. Let's say our concrete for a 10 ft × 10 ft area needs to be 3.5 inches thick. In this case, we would find our yardage as follows: 324/3.5 = 92.6 10 × 10 = 100 100/92.6 = 1.08. We need 1.08 yd concrete. Buy a little more concrete than you need. When pouring concrete, it's usually a good idea to buy a little extra just in case your measurements weren't exact. After all,dry concrete mix that you don't end up using can be saved and used for another project. However, if you don't have enough, you're in a bind - someone may have to run to the hardware store before you can continue. So, be sure to buy a little extra, especially for large projects.
Obtain all necessary measurements in yards. Use the equation L × W × H for rectangular spaces. For cylindrical spaces, use the equation pi × R2 × H. For spheres, use the equation 4/3 pi × R3. For cones, use the equation 1/3 pi × R2 × H. For irregular shapes, try using multiple equations. Find the square footage of the area where you're pouring. Find how thick your concrete must be. Divide your square footage by a coefficient based on the thickness of your concrete. Determine odd thicknesses via simple formula. Buy a little more concrete than you need.
https://www.wikihow.com/Measure-a-Bicycle-Wheel
How to Measure a Bicycle Wheel
To measure a bicycle wheel, start by standing the bike upright by leaning it against a wall or using the kickstand. Then, use a tape measure to measure the distance from the ground underneath the tire to the center of the wheel to get the radius. Next, multiple the radius by 2 to get the diameter. For example, if you measure 14 inches from the ground to the center, the diameter is 28 inches. Finally, measure the flat part of the tire across the treads to find the width measurement.
Stand the bike upright by leaning it against a wall or using the kick stand. When the bicycle is upright, you will be able to measure the bike wheel without the bike tipping onto you. If you are measuring the bike alone, a retractable metal tape measure will be sturdier than a plastic tape measure while leaving you a free hand. Measure the distance in inches from the ground beneath the tire to the center point of the wheel. This measurement is the wheel's radius, or half of its diameter. Multiply the length by two in order to calculate the tire's diameter. With the exception of BMX models, most adult bicycle wheels are between 26 and 29 inches in diameter. If your tire is mounted, check the sidewall to find the measurement. Measure the flat part of the tire across the tread from one side to the other. The distance is the tire's width. It can vary greatly depending on the tire's intended use. Generally, the wider the tread, the rougher the intended terrain, while narrower treads promise a smoother, faster ride. Put the diameter first and the width second. Remember when purchasing a new tire that traditional, or standard sizes place the diameter first, followed by the width. For example, a tire sized 26 x 1.75 would have a 26-inch diameter and a 1.75-inch width across the tread. Check if your bike's wheels are measured by the ISO system. The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) measuring system uses millimeters to signify the size of your bicycle's wheel. If you don't have a measuring tape with metric rules, just be aware that there are 25.4 millimeters in one inch and determine the width with a calculator, multiplying inches x 25.4. ISO sizing is considered the most reliable option for measuring your tires at home. It should give you the most accurate measurement. Most tires are measured using both the standard and ISO method. Additionally, their sizes should be printed on the sidewall of the tire so you can easily check them. Ensure the bike is propped up against the wall or on its kickstand. Measure in millimeters from the center of the wheel to only the inner edge of the tire. Once again, double the figure to determine the diameter. Most adult bicycle tires measured with the ISO system range from 650 to 700 millimeters in diameter. The ISO system includes both the bead seat diameter (BSD), as well as the width of the tire, in millimeters. As an example, a 700x35 c tire has a 622 millimeters BSD and is 35 millimeters wide, so its ISO designation would be 35-622. Similarly, a 26x2 inch tire would have a BSD of 559 mm and an ISO designation of 50-559. Measure the tire's width in millimeters. Use the same process listed above, across the tread from one side to the other. Keep in mind that tires of various widths can be used on the same bicycle wheel, as long as the difference is not too drastic. List the width first and the diameter second. Remember when purchasing a new tire measured by the ISO system, the width is listed first, followed by the diameter. For example, a bicycle wheel sized 39 x 700 would have tread 39 millimeters wide and a wheel with a 700-millimeter diameter from the outer edge of one side of the tire to the other. Additionally, the BSD would be 622 mm. Measure the circumference. The circumference is the distance around the outside of a bicycle wheel, which you need in order to properly calibrate a bicycle speedometer, odometer, GPS or computer. Just as your car's speedometer and odometer will provide inaccurate data if you change the size of its wheels, bicycle equipment must also be set based on the size of your tires. Whether you've just purchased a cyclometer or you need to calibrate an existing one because you've switched to tires with a different sized tread, you will need to determine the wheel's circumference. Calculate circumference easily by multiplying the tire's diameter by pi. The circumference of any circle can be determined quickly if you already know the diameter of the tire from the outer edge of one side to the other. As pi is equal to 3.14, the circumference of a 26-inch tire can be reached by multiplying 26 x 3.14 to equal a circumference of 81.64 inches. If you already know the tire's diameter and width, you can also look up the circumference on various online charts. Measure the circumference with a string. If you don't already know the wheel's diameter, you can still measure its circumference by evenly wrapping a string around the outside edge of the tire. Mark or cut the string at the spot where it reaches back to its starting point and measure its length to determine the circumference. Add a dot of wet paint to a spot on the bicycle tire's tread. Carefully push the bicycle in a straight line for at least two rotations, ensuring the paint marks the ground twice. Measure the ground from the first spot of paint to the next in order to determine the tire's circumference.
Stand the bike upright by leaning it against a wall or using the kick stand. Measure the distance in inches from the ground beneath the tire to the center point of the wheel. Measure the flat part of the tire across the tread from one side to the other. Put the diameter first and the width second. Check if your bike's wheels are measured by the ISO system. Ensure the bike is propped up against the wall or on its kickstand. Measure the tire's width in millimeters. List the width first and the diameter second. Measure the circumference. Calculate circumference easily by multiplying the tire's diameter by pi. Measure the circumference with a string. Add a dot of wet paint to a spot on the bicycle tire's tread.
https://www.wikihow.com/Create-Good-Study-Habits-for-Exams
How to Create Good Study Habits for Exams
To create good study habits, set aside some time every day to study, which will help you learn the material better than if you were to cram the night before your test. When you sit down to study, put away your phone and make sure there aren't any distractions so you can focus on the material. Use flash cards, your notes from class, and practice tests to help you memorize the information. Also, give yourself a 5-minute break halfway through your study sessions so you don't get overwhelmed.
Designate a daily study time. Studying for a test begins well before you reach exam day. You should set aside time every day to study so that you can learn the material you're expected to know. Daily study sessions are needed to keep the material fresh in your mind and to give yourself time to make connections between concepts. If you have other homework, you may decide to do it during your designated study time since it will help you better grasp the material. By reserving a specific time each day for studying, it can be easier to focus, because you won't have to worry about any other priorities competing for your attention. Arrange your study space to foster learning. Choose an area that is clean, well-lit, and free of distractions so that you can focus on your study materials. Make a habit of studying in the same place each day. Avoid sitting in front of the television or around a busy part of your home. Some people like to study in the library or coffee shop, but this may not work for you if you're easily distracted by movement or noises. Gather your materials before you get started. You don't want to get started on your study session only to get derailed by not having what you need. Make sure that you have your texts, notes, writing utensils, highlighters, and other necessary supplies. Turn off your electronics. Electronic devices are a big distraction, so remember to turn off your phone and television. When you need to use your computer during your study session, stay away from social media, email, and off-topic websites. Keep your cell phone away from you, as it will distract you. Only check your emails or messages after studying, during break time. Use a notebook or planner to track your assignments. Write down semester, weekly, and daily goals to keep track of what you need to study. For example, you may list all of your exams for a course on your semester plan, then break down your weekly study sessions leading up to each exam. From there, you can make a daily to-do list. You can also use a wall planner and to-do lists to keep track of assignments and what you plan to study each day. Create a study plan. Make a timetable for exam days by marking the dates on the calendar in your planner, calendar, or notebook. Work backward to plan how you will study for the exam. For example, designate the days you want to focus on that subject, and which sections you will review each day. It's okay for your plan to be a general outline. Don't let your planning waste the time you plan to use for studying. Break the information down so you're only tackling a little each day. That can keep you from feeling overwhelmed, and it will be easier to reward yourself continuously for sticking to your plan. Read the course materials and texts. You should have a textbook for each course, and your instructor could also assign other books or articles for you to read. Don't skim the texts or read a summary. Good study habits require that you read all of the assigned texts. If you can, highlight the important parts of the texts. Research anything you don't understand, and look up confusing vocabulary. Make yourself a flashcard on the spot so that you'll have it for later. Take and review notes, filling in gaps with your own research. During class and as you read the course materials, write down the key points and topics you want to further research later. When you get home from school, it's a good idea to go through your notes from the day and try to fill in any gaps where you missed items or didn't quite understand. As you study for your exams, look up any information that isn't clear to you so that you can get more information. It's crucial that you review the information in the weeks and days leading up to the exam. The more you revisit the information, the more it will become internalized and easier to remember. Record your class lectures on a digital recorder or your phone. You can then listen to the recordings as often as you need to so that you grasp the material. You can also fill in the gaps in your notes. Check with your teacher or professor to make sure that it's okay to record the lecture. Don't use this as an excuse to not take notes during class. You should still take notes to help yourself learn the material. Make yourself flash cards. Flash cards are a great way to study your material, especially vocabulary, key points, and lists. For example, you could put scientific processes, mathematical formulas, or historical figures that you need to know on flash cards. Try using index cards to make your flash cards, or cut up a piece of paper. Additionally, you could use an online tool like quizlet or Kahoot to create flashcards and practice quizzes. Make mind maps. Mind maps are graphical illustrations of your topic and a great memory tool to use, especially during exams. For example, you can create a web connecting the ideas you're studying, or create a doodle based on your notes. Be creative in how you arrange your notes when you make your mind map. Ask someone to quiz you. When you get closer to your exam, ask a parent, friend, or your teacher to quiz you over the information. You can create example questions for them to ask you, have them question you from the review, or let them question you from your notes. This will show you if you need to review any topics before the actual exam. Adjust your study habits depending on the type of exam. You may be taking a multiple choice, fill-in-the-blank, essay, short answer, or other type of exam. Many exams incorporate more than one style of question. For a multiple choice exam, make lists and tables, know the differences between concepts and words, and know how topics are related to each other. For a fill-in-the-blank exam, focus on your notes because most teachers take their questions from the notes they provide. You should expect your teacher to remove an important word or words from a sentence, such as a term, date, phrase, or historical figure. For an essay or short answer exam, pay attention to what your instructor emphasized in class. Write out what you know about this topic and do additional research if necessary. Use the syllabus, study guide, and textbook summary of the material to make a list of possible questions. Create a study list for each possible essay question. Take a break about halfway through your study sessions. Get up and walk around, stepping away from your study space. You can grab a snack, go for a short walk, or do some stretches. Try to clear your mind so that you can start fresh when you go back to your study space. Your break should last for 5-15 minutes, depending on how long you're studying. Some people benefit from shorter, more frequent breaks. You should also take a break when you're feeling frustrated. Seek tutoring if you're struggling with the material. You can go to your teacher, a classmate, or your parents for tutoring. You may even want to hire a private tutor. Getting a little extra help is normal, so ask questions as soon as you feel yourself getting behind. Many schools offer free tutoring from teachers or peers. Join a study group. Study groups share notes, thoughts, and ideas. Working in a group will allow you to bounce ideas off of your peers. You can help each other better understand concepts that might be difficult to learn by yourself. Bonding with someone who shares your struggles, hopes, and goals is very inspiring. You can mutually mentor and quiz each other and monitor the performance of scheduled tasks. The feeling of collective responsibility makes students less prone to laziness and pushes them to make concerted efforts on the way to educational success. Look for a study group at your school. Visit the local or school library to look for postings about study groups on the bulletin board. Ask your friends to form a study group with you. Teach the material to someone else. One of the best ways to understand and retain material is by teaching it to someone else! Work with a friend in the same class, or teach the concepts to your parents or siblings. You could even tutor a younger student in the subject if you feel confident in your understanding of the material. Their questions can help you think about the material in new ways. Reward yourself for meeting your study goals. Plan a small reward for each day you study, such as time playing your favorite game, a piece of candy, or money to set aside for something you really want. Think of weekly goals for meeting each daily goal that week, such as few hours with your friends or a weekend sleepover. When you're getting started, attach your reward to your behavior, such as studying each day, rather than the outcome, which would be your grade. Ask your parents or roommate to help you with the rewards. They may be able to give you an allowance for meeting your study goals, or they could hold onto the candy and give you a piece when you earn it. Manage your stress leading up to the exam. It can be easy to feel overwhelmed and nervous before an exam. To help reduce stress, do an enjoyable and relaxing activity, such as yoga , meditation , or exercising. You could also listen to calming music, spend time with your friends, color, or read. Avoid cramming the night before. Cramming the night before an exam has not been proven to improve grades. Instead, take time to prepare in the weeks and days before the exam. The night before, you should eat a healthy meal and make sure to get 7-8 hours of sleep. These strategies are a much better alternative to prepare you for the exam than cramming. Incorporate images if you're a visual learner. Look for visual representations of what you're learning, such as photos of a historical figure, a map for geography, or illustrations of a cell for cellular biology. You may even want to check out documentaries online. Other great options are to color code your notes, use a highlighter, draw diagrams, or sketch out what you're learning. Use mnemonics and mental imagery to help you recall certain rules and formulas. For instance, in math, you might use the acronym PEMDAS (parenthesis, exponents, multiplication, division, addition, subtraction) to remember the order of operations in an equation. Listen to music or an audio book if you're an auditory learner. Music can help your mind focus while you read, or you could try finding your text as an audiobook. Some textbooks include digital access to an audio file or even include a CD. If you're reading a novel for class, look for the audio version. You can also try reading your notes out loud or explaining what you're learning aloud to someone else. Build movement into your study sessions if you're a kinesthetic learner. Some subjects, such as science, are easier to pair with movement since you can build models of what you're studying. You can always hang up a whiteboard or poster board in your room, then stand at it while you write out the important concepts or create a diagram of what you're learning. This allows you to move as you process the information, which will help you learn. Other great options include role playing, making a model, or creating a representation of what you're learning.
Designate a daily study time. Arrange your study space to foster learning. Gather your materials before you get started. Turn off your electronics. Use a notebook or planner to track your assignments. Create a study plan. Read the course materials and texts. Take and review notes, filling in gaps with your own research. Record your class lectures on a digital recorder or your phone. Make yourself flash cards. Make mind maps. Ask someone to quiz you. Adjust your study habits depending on the type of exam. Take a break about halfway through your study sessions. Seek tutoring if you're struggling with the material. Join a study group. Teach the material to someone else. Reward yourself for meeting your study goals. Manage your stress leading up to the exam. Avoid cramming the night before. Incorporate images if you're a visual learner. Listen to music or an audio book if you're an auditory learner. Build movement into your study sessions if you're a kinesthetic learner.
https://www.wikihow.com/Long-Jump
How to Long Jump
Before you long jump, determine which foot is dominant by having a friend gently push you from behind and see which foot you step forward with. Then, run down the center of the track and plant your dominant foot on the ground before you jump. Next, push off and swing the lead knee and the opposite arm upward to increase your force off the ground. As you jump, bring both your legs and arms forward to avoid falling backwards. Finally, bend your knees to maintain balance as you land.
Decide which foot you will take off with. The takeoff foot is the one that hits the takeoff board; it is the foot you jump off the board with. Generally, a right-handed long jumper takes off with the left foot. New jumpers can try both styles to see which works best. To determine your takeoff foot, have a friend gently push you from behind. The foot you step forward from is your dominant foot and can be used for the takeoff. Alternatively, you can determine your takeoff foot by thinking about which foot you kick with or which foot leads when you jump over something, such as a hurdle. Figure out the number of strides you will take. Practice your run-up several times to determine how many strides you'll take before performing the jump. Generally, the number of strides corresponds to your age, for example: 10 years = 10-11 strides 11 years = 10-12 strides 12 years = 11-13 strides 13 years = 12-14 strides 14 years = 13-15 strides 15 years = 14-16 strides 16 years = 15-17 strides 17 years = 15-21 strides Determine your starting point. To discover the starting point for your jump, start with your back to the sand pit at the point you will jump from. Run toward the area you generally start from, but only run the same number of strides you have determined you will take before jumping. The spot where you end your last stride is your starting point. Do this several times and adjust your starting point if necessary. Another way to determine your starting point is to begin from a certain point on the track and run forward the number of strides you have determined you will take. Mark the point of your last stride. Do this several times so you can find an average distance based on the number of strides you take. Place markers at your starting point. You'll need to use visible markers that will stand out from other jumpers who have a similar starting point. You can put cones, small flags, brightly colored rocks, or colored tape at your starting point. Place them off to the side of the track so they don't get in the way of jumpers or people competing in other events. Begin with your takeoff foot forward. This is the starting position. Lean forward slightly and stand with your back to the pit. Make sure you are positioned in the middle of the track. Run down the track. Gradual acceleration is key, and after a few strides you should be in an upright sprinting position. Keep your head and eyes up rather than looking down. Run full speed until you reach the takeoff board. Lower your center of gravity on the second to last step. Place your foot flat on the ground, lower your hips, bend your knee, and flex your ankle to lower your center of gravity. Make your last stride shorter. Shorten your last step to maintain speed. Place your foot flat on the ground out in front of your body. Flex the joints of your leg to raise your center of gravity. Plant your takeoff foot flat on the ground. It's important that you plant your takeoff foot flat on the ground, rather than using your heel or toe. If you take off heel-first, your speed will be reduced. If you take off on your toes, your jump will be unstable and you're also at a higher risk for injury. Swing your lead knee and opposite arm upward. To increase your force against the ground, swing your lead knee (the one you takeoff with) and your opposite arm upward. Keep the rest of your body in an upright position. Jump for distance, not height. Concentrate on making your jump as long as possible rather than as high as possible. Look ahead of you, rather than down at the board or the sand to keep your momentum moving forward. Try the sail technique if you are a beginner. To do this, propel your free leg (opposite of your takeoff leg) forward as far as possible. While in the air, bring your takeoff leg forward as well so your legs are parallel to each other. Try the hitch-kick or hang if you are an advanced jumper. To do the hitch-kick, cycle your arms and legs to counteract forward rotation in the air. For the hang, to counteract forward rotation extend your body so that your arms are above your head and your legs are hanging down. Swing your arms down and lift your legs up. When preparing to land, swing your arms down and lift your legs up before reaching the sand. Angle your body forward. Remember that your distance is measured by the part of your body that lands the furthest back, so do your best to avoid falling backwards or touching your hands to the pit behind your body. Bend your knees to soften the impact. Bring your arms forward to help you maintain your balance and keep yourself from falling over. When your heels touch the pit, press your feet down and pull your hips up. This, in addition to your momentum, will carry your body past the mark where your heels touched down.
Decide which foot you will take off with. Figure out the number of strides you will take. Determine your starting point. Place markers at your starting point. Begin with your takeoff foot forward. Run down the track. Lower your center of gravity on the second to last step. Make your last stride shorter. Plant your takeoff foot flat on the ground. Swing your lead knee and opposite arm upward. Jump for distance, not height. Try the sail technique if you are a beginner. Try the hitch-kick or hang if you are an advanced jumper. Swing your arms down and lift your legs up. Angle your body forward. Bend your knees to soften the impact.
https://www.wikihow.com/Deal-with-Parents-Treating-Other-Siblings-Better
How to Deal with Parents Treating Other Siblings Better
To deal with your parents if they treat your siblings better, focus on standing up for yourself by telling your parents how you feel. For example, start a conversation by saying, “Mom and dad, I need to talk to you about not feeling as important as John.” Keep your thoughts positive even when your parents treat you unfairly by saying things to yourself like “I'm a winner,” since this will help you not to feel down. When you feel angry or frustrated by your parents' behavior, find ways to manage that anger, such as going for a run or riding your bike. Avoid getting into arguments or being aggressive, since this will only make your situation worse.
Understand the variation within relationships. Since we're all different, nobody relates to any two people in exactly the same way. In some cases, a parent might seem to show favor to your sibling. In other cases, or from another point of view, your parent might appear to favor you. It is unrealistic to expect any parent to be completely fair and even-handed in their treatment of you and your sibling. However, there is no excuse for systematic and repeated favoritism of one child over another. Before tackling the issue with your parents, ask yourself whether you're sure your siblings are really being treated better. Sure, they might receive something "extra" in one area of life, but you might receive that kind of special attention in another area. If this is the case, your parents might not really be showing your sibling preferential treatment, but are rather just acknowledging that you and your sibling are two different people with unique wants and needs. Stand up for yourself. It's important to communicate to your parents how you feel when they treat your other siblings better than they treat you. Be honest about your feelings. Whether you're an adult still dealing with the impact your parents' behavior had on you or a kid trying to improve your situation, talking to your parents about how they treated your sibling better than they treated you is important. Try starting the conversation by saying something like, "Mom and Dad, I've been thinking a lot about this lately and I need to talk to you about not feeling as important as John." Be assertive but not aggressive. Find a quiet moment when you can talk to your parent about their behavior without anyone else interrupting. Say, for instance, “I'm really hurt by the way you're treating me compared to my sibling.” Avoid confrontational “you” statements (like “You don't care about me”) and focus on your feelings with “I” statements (like “I'm hurt by the way I'm being treated”). Cite specific examples to illustrate your point. For example, you could continue the conversation by saying, "It seems like you go to all John's football games, but you only went to one of my volleyball games last season. Why is that?” Finish with a direct request such as, "I really want you both to attend at least three of my at home games this season. I feel that is only fair." If you can't think of specific instances where your parents treated you poorly relative to how they treated your sibling, start looking for these occasions and write them down over the course of a few days. Then, when you're armed with evidence, talk to your parents about the situation. Be honest when expressing your feelings. Don’t get into an argument. If your parents get angry or upset with you, don't fight them. Stay calm and excuse yourself from the conversation if you don't think you're making progress or if you feel too frustrated. Don't blow up, cuss them out, and call them names. Instead, maintain a level tone and speak slowly. Choose your words with care. If you feel upset by the conversation, then try taking a break and do some deep breathing. Try saying something like, “I will be right back. I just need a few minutes.” You might have to talk to your parents more than once about this issue. If they are unwilling to listen the first time you bring it up, try again some other time. Stay focused on the subject. Don't let your parents turn the conversation around on you or excuse their actions. Don’t expect your parents to change. In the best-case scenario, you parents will realize that they've been treating you badly compared to your siblings and resolve to change. But they might not agree with your view, even if you draw attention to their favoritism. They might deny showing preferential treatment, or might admit that they show preferential treatment and try to justify it. In this case, prepare for frustration and unhappy feelings. Remember, you cannot change other people. You can only change yourself. Stay positive. Look on the bright side of things. Instead of saying to yourself, “Well, that article didn't turn out the way I wanted it to,” you should say, “The article wasn't perfect, but I did my best and I'm proud of that. Others will surely appreciate my hard work.” As good as your parents or even your family can be at convincing you that you're the problem, that's all wrong and is called scapegoating. Them blaming you is probably the real problem. Stay aware of your own negative thoughts. When you think, “I'm so dumb,” stop yourself and envision that thought as a red balloon. Picture the words written on the side of the balloon. Imagine yourself letting the balloon go. Watch it float up into nothingness, never to return. Then, imagine hundreds of blue balloons descending, each with a positive mantra written on it, such as, “I am a winner.” Manage your emotions. Because of your parents' favoritism, you might be short-tempered and/or aggressive. Your temper might interfere with your ability to form friendships with others. Learn to take control of your emotions and don't let them control you. Before you say or do something out of anger, think about how you'd feel if someone said or did the same to you. Breathe in slowly through your nose, then exhale through your mouth for slightly longer than it took you to inhale. Find a positive outlet for your frustration and anger. Go for a run or ride your bike. Take up a martial art. Any kind of exercise is a good way to blow off steam. Look for alternatives to violence, yelling, or other angry reactions. In the end, these reactions will not solve the problem or situation that inspired them. If someone said something rude to you, for instance, express your feelings in a mature way. Say, “I don't like the way you're treating me. You owe me an apology.” Rebuild your self-esteem. If your parents spend years acting as though your other sibling(s) are smarter, funnier, or more interesting than you, you might start to believe them. Learn to identify self-defeating or critical thoughts and feelings and challenge them wherever possible. The quickest way to disprove the lie that you have nothing of value to offer is to pursue your hobbies and interests. Whatever it is you love doing, continue doing it. The more your practice, the better you'll get. After about 10,000 hours of practice doing something, you will have attained mastery in that particular hobby or skill. Having an exceptional talent can increase feelings of confidence and self-worth. Provide encouragement for yourself. Every day when you wake, look in the mirror and say, “I have a life worth living and many people like me.” Surround yourself with friend who care about you. Lean on them for support when you're feeling blue. Form healthy relationships. Children who are bullied or neglected by their parents are vulnerable to exploitation by others who give them the attention and validation they crave. Stay away from gangs, terrorist organizations, and cults, especially those that adopt a family-like structure. As a child of parents who treat your siblings better than they treat you, you might be lured by promises of love and affection. However, these arrangements are always temporary and designed with an eye on future benefits for the one who offers the apparent love and affection. Remember, real love is given selflessly, without any expectation of anything in return. Don’t blame your sibling. If your parents treat your sibling much better than they treat you, you might come to see your sibling and your parents as part of a united conspiracy against you. However, it is important to recognize that your parents alone are responsible for their behavior. Your sibling has nothing to do with their attitude toward you. Maintain a positive, healthy relationship with your sibling. If your sibling is old enough to understand what's going on, talk to them about how your parents are mistreating you. Seek their advice and encourage them to speak up on your behalf. Keep your grades up. Children of parents who show favoritism to another child often have a hard time in school. Find a well-lit, quiet place to study. Do all your homework each night, and use a daily planner to schedule time for yourself to review for tests, write essays, and complete important projects ahead of time. Stay organized. There are many apps available for your phone and tablet to help you better manage your time and keep track of your assignments. The Complete Class Organizer and iHomework are among the best. Attend all your classes and take notes in each class. Ask questions when you are confused or don't understand something. Confront your depression. Depression -- a persistent feeling of sadness and a lack of energy -- is a common side effect in children who were regularly treated poorly in comparison to their siblings. A common course of treatment will combine antidepressants with cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT). CBT is a therapeutic method that helps you confront your negative thoughts directly and identify counterexamples to construct a logical case against feelings of depression. CBT helps you focus on your feelings and experiences in the here and now in order to develop healthy coping mechanisms to change your depressive thought patterns into more positive ones. If you believe you have depression, consult a therapist to help you get on the road to recovery. Recognize when parents play favorites because of your identity. Parents often treat children differently for reasons based solely on qualities that are nobody's fault. Step-parents might show favoritism to their biological children because they raised them and feel closer to them. Other reasons might include: Age. Firstborn children often receive preferential treatment. Middle children are often neglected. Younger siblings who are still children might be treated better than teens because they are perceived as being in greater need of parental attention. Gender. Parents often feel closer to children of their gender than children of the other gender. For instance, mothers often feel closer to daughters than sons, and might thus show favoritism to their daughters. In addition, in a patriarchal society, boys are often treated better than girls. Look for signs of personality disorders. If your parents are treating your siblings better than you, they might have a personality disorder. This includes a broad spectrum of disorders (including histrionic personality disorder, narcissistic personality disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder) in which a person's feelings are dysfunctional and their thinking is confused. Instead of making decisions on a rational basis -- by, for instance, realizing that each child deserves love equally -- they rationalize their unfair treatment and insist that some children don't deserve love (for whatever reason). Consider your parents’ mood. If your parents are under stress, they will be more likely to show favoritism. Stress might be brought on by financial or relationship problems. If you're aware that your parent(s) are having problems and they are treating another sibling better, it could be a product of the stress they're feeling. Don’t assume you deserve your treatment. If you parents continuously treat your sibling(s) better (or even if they treat you worse in one particular instance), don't assume that you deserve it. No matter what their reason for treating you differently, it's important to recognize that you deserve love, respect, and fair treatment just as much as your brother or sister. In the end, it shouldn't matter why your parents are treating you worse. What matters is that their behavior is wrong. Don't obsess over trying to figure out how to “fix” yourself or please your parents. In most cases, it just isn't possible. Try to see things from their point of view. How would your parents explain the differences in treatment? Even if you don't agree with their reasoning, it helps to think about things from their point of view. Watch for signs of abuse. If your parents are treating you as less important than a sibling or if they are cruel to you in other ways, then this may be abuse. There are lots of different kinds of abuse, which may include: Emotional abuse, such as calling you names, shaming you, humiliating you, or ignoring you. Neglect, such as not feeding you enough or not seeking care for you when you are sick or injured. Physical abuse, such as hitting you, restraining you, or doing other things to harm you. Sexual abuse, such as touching you in intimate places, forcing you to perform sexual acts, or talking to you in sexual ways.
Understand the variation within relationships. Stand up for yourself. Be assertive but not aggressive. Don’t get into an argument. Don’t expect your parents to change. Stay positive. Manage your emotions. Rebuild your self-esteem. Form healthy relationships. Don’t blame your sibling. Keep your grades up. Confront your depression. Recognize when parents play favorites because of your identity. Look for signs of personality disorders. Consider your parents’ mood. Don’t assume you deserve your treatment. Try to see things from their point of view. Watch for signs of abuse.
https://www.wikihow.com/Buy-a-Firearm-in-Michigan
How to Buy a Firearm in Michigan
To buy a firearm in Michigan, start by applying for a pistol purchase permit and a pistol sales record, or PSR, at your local police station if you're planning to buy the firearm privately. If you're purchasing it from a federally-approved dealer, you'll only need the PSR, which has to contain the seller's name and details of your pistol. Once you've secured your documents, purchase your pistol as soon as possible, since the permit only lasts 30 days. Make sure you and the seller both sign the relevant documents when you buy the gun. Then, return 1 copy of the permit and/or PSR to your local police station, and keep copies for your own records.
Meet the age requirements. You must be at least 18 years old to buy a pistol from a private seller. You can not buy a pistol from a dealer, however. You must be 21 years old or older to buy a pistol from a federal firearms licensed dealer. Only Michigan residents may purchase a pistol in Michigan. Obtain a purchase permit if you are not purchasing from an FFL dealer. That's a Federal Firearm Licensed dealer. If you are purchasing from anyone else, you will need the permit unless you have a concealed pistol license(CPL).If you are a CPL holder and are purchasing from another person all you need is a RI-60. This is also called a license to purchase a pistol, or an LTP. It is valid for 30 days as of December 18th, 2012. Complete the application for a pistol purchase permit at your local police agency. If you reside within municipal limits, go to your city police department. If you live in a rural area or outside municipal limits, go to your county sheriff's department. Bring valid identification with you. You must present police with a current ID that shows your photograph. Pass the background check. It's not super invasive -- they're mainly checking to see if you're mentally stable or if you have any restraining orders to your name. This generally takes 24 hours. Take an oath before a notary public. You must swear that you comply with applicable federal laws and Michigan state laws for owning a pistol in Michigan. The laws stipulate numerous circumstances that prohibit applicants from receiving a purchase permit. You can see the complete list at the Michigan State Police website at www.michigan.gov/msp. As of last year, the Basic Pistol Safety Questionnaire is no longer given. Just for the record. Collect your approved purchase permit at the police station. You can usually get the permit the day after you apply. The police can only deny the permit if you've been convicted of a felony or have displayed a history of violent or mentally unstable behavior. You'll also receive a PSR -- Pistol Sales Record in triplicate. One will be for you, one will be for the police, and one will be for your seller. Don't lose these! If you are purchasing from an FFL, obtain a PSR. The dealer's identification number must be on the PSR in addition to information on you and your pistol. You must send the completed police copy of the PSR to the nearest police agency. This goes for both those who are purchasing from private sellers and those purchasing from FFL's. The only difference is that if you are purchasing from a private seller and do not have a permit, the PSR will be given to you then. Otherwise, go to your local police station and request a PSR form in triplicate. Use the purchase permit and PSR to buy a pistol in Michigan. The permit is valid for 30 days, but you need to fill it out within 10 days of purchase. When you are buying your pistol, have the forms with you to fill out. Make sure that you and your gun dealer sign the permit and PSR. This will be done when you buy the pistol. The dealer will retain a copy of each. Keep a copy of the signed purchase permit and PSR for your records. Return one copy of the PSR (and permit, if applicable) to your local police agency. They will then enter your information into their database. Their copy then gets forwarded to the following address (and then you're finished!): Firearms Records Unit Michigan State Police PO Box 30634 Lansing, MI 48909-0634 Meet the age requirements. Because long guns aren't used in crime too terribly often (try to conceal one in your waistband), they're actually much easier to obtain. You can be younger and you don't need a permit. You must be 18 years old or older to buy a long gun from a private seller. You must be at least 18 years old to buy a long gun from a federal firearms licensed dealer. Non-residents may purchase a long gun in Michigan and residents of Michigan may purchase a long gun in any other state. Pass a background check, if applicable. You can't buy a long gun if doing so is prohibited due to your mental health background or criminal history. If you do not have a permit to carry a pistol, you may have to go through this. However, it's ultimately up to the discretion of the dealer. You may find that this lack of regulation is surprising, at least compared to the regulations for handguns. The reason being is that long guns are very difficult to conceal, aren't often used in crime, and aren't cheap to come by. Purchase your long gun. It's best to go about this as legally as possible -- purchasing from an FFL dealer, etc. But there are also private gun shows and tons of Internet sites that have a wide selection, too.
Meet the age requirements. Obtain a purchase permit if you are not purchasing from an FFL dealer. Pass the background check. Collect your approved purchase permit at the police station. If you are purchasing from an FFL, obtain a PSR. Use the purchase permit and PSR to buy a pistol in Michigan. Return one copy of the PSR (and permit, if applicable) to your local police agency. Meet the age requirements. Pass a background check, if applicable. Purchase your long gun.
https://www.wikihow.com/Write-a-Rhetorical-Analysis
How to Write a Rhetorical Analysis
To write a rhetorical analysis, start by determining what the author of the work you're analyzing is trying to argue. Then, ask yourself if they succeeded in making their argument. Whether you think they did or didn't, include quotes and specific examples in your analysis to back up your opinion. When you're writing your analysis, use the third-person to appear objective as opposed to using "I" or "we." Also, make sure you include the author's name, profession, and purpose for writing the text at the beginning of your analysis to give reader's some context.
Identify the SOAPSTone. The SOAPSTone of a text include its Speaker, Occasion, Audience, Purpose, Subject and Tone. The speaker refers to the first and last name of the writer. If the writer has any credentials that lend to his or her authority on the matter at hand, you should also briefly consider those. Note that if the narrator is different from the writer, though, it could also refer to the narrator. The occasion mostly refers to the type of text and the context under which the text was written. For instance, there is a big difference between an essay written for a scholarly conference and a letter written to an associate in the field. The audience is who the text was written for. This is related to the occasion, since the occasion can include details about the audience. In the example above, the audience would be a conference of scholars versus an associate in the field. The purpose refers to what the writer wants to accomplish in the text. It usually includes selling a product or point of view. The subject is simply the topic the writer discusses in the text. Examine the appeals. Appeals are the first classification of rhetorical strategy and involve the ethos, logos, and pathos. Ethos, or ethical appeals, rely on the writer's credibility and character in the garnering of approval. Mentions of a writer's character or qualifications usually qualify as ethos. For instance, if a family therapist with 20 years of practice writes an article on improving familial relations, mention of that experience would be using ethos. Despite their name, these appeals don't have anything to do with "ethics" as we usually think of them. Logos, or logical appeals, use reason to make an argument. Most academic discourse should make heavy use of logos. A writer who supports an argument with evidence, data, and undeniable facts uses logos. Pathos, or pathetic appeals, seek to evoke emotion in order to gain approval. These emotions can include anything from sympathy and anger to the desire for love. If an article about violent crime provides personal, human details about victims of violent crime, the writer is likely using pathos. Note style details. Style details are the second rhetorical strategy and include a wide variety of elements, such as imagery, tone, syntax, and diction. Analogies and figurative language, including metaphors and similes, demonstrate an idea through comparison. Repetition of a certain point or idea is used to make that point seem more memorable. Imagery often affects pathos. The image of a starving child in a third-world country can be a powerful way of evoking compassion or anger. Diction refers to word choice. Emotionally-charged words have greater impact, and rhythmic word patterns can establish a theme more effectively. Tone essentially means mood or attitude. A sarcastic essay is vastly different from a scientific one, but depending on the situation, either tone could be effective. Addressing the opposition demonstrates that the writer is not afraid of the opposing viewpoint. It also allows the writer to strengthen his or her own argument by cutting down the opposing one. This is especially powerful when the author contrasts a strong viewpoint he or she holds with a weak viewpoint on the opposing side. Form an analysis. Before you begin writing your analysis, determine what the information you gathered suggests to you. Ask yourself how the rhetorical strategies of appeals and style help the author achieve his or her purpose. Determine if any of these strategies fail and hurt the author instead of helping. Speculate on why the author may have chosen those rhetorical strategies for that audience and that occasion. Determine if the choice of strategies may have differed for a different audience or occasion. Remember that in a rhetorical analysis, you do not need to agree with the argument being presented. Your task is to analyze how well the author uses the appeals to present her or his argument. Identify your own purpose. You should, in some way, let the reader know that your paper is a rhetorical analysis. By letting the reader know that your paper is a rhetorical analysis, you let him or her know exactly what to expect. If you do not let the reader know this information beforehand, he or she may expect to read an evaluative argument instead. Do not simply state, "This paper is a rhetorical analysis." Weave the information into the introduction as naturally as possible. Note that this may not be necessary if you are writing a rhetorical analysis for an assignment that specifically calls for a rhetorical analysis. State the text being analyzed. Clearly identify the text or document you plan to analyze in your paper. The introduction is a good place to give a quick summary of the document. Keep it quick, though. Save the majority of the details for your body paragraphs, since most of the details will be used in defending your analysis. Briefly mention the SOAPS. Mention the speaker, occasion, audience, purpose, and subject of the text. You do not necessarily need to mention these details in this order. Include the details in a matter that makes sense and flows naturally within your introductory paragraph. Specify a thesis statement. The thesis statement is the key to a successful introduction and provides a sense of focus for the rest of the essay. There are several ways to state your intentions for the essay. Try stating which rhetorical techniques the writer uses in order to move people toward his or her desired purpose. Analyze how well these techniques accomplish this goal. Consider narrowing the focus of your essay. Choose one or two design aspects that are complex enough to spend an entire essay analyzing. Think about making an original argument. If your analysis leads you to make a certain argument about the text, focus your thesis and essay around that argument and provide support for it throughout the body of your paper. Try to focus on using words such as "effective" or "ineffective" when composing your thesis, rather than "good" or "bad." You want to avoid seeming like you are passing value judgments. Organize your body paragraphs by rhetorical appeals. The most standard way to organize your body paragraphs is to do so by separating them into sections that identify the logos, ethos, and pathos. The order of logos, ethos, and pathos is not necessarily set in stone. If you intend to focus on one more than the other two, you could briefly cover the two lesser appeals in the first two sections before elaborating on the third in greater detail toward the middle and end of the paper. For logos, identify at least one major claim and evaluate the document's use of objective evidence. For ethos, analyze how the writer or speaker uses his or her status as an "expert" to enhance credibility. For pathos, analyze any details that alter the way that the viewer or reader may feel about the subject at hand. Also analyze any imagery used to appeal to aesthetic senses, and determine how effective these elements are. Wrap things up by discussing the consequences and overall impact of these three appeals. Write your analysis in chronological order, instead. This method is just about as common as organizing your paper by rhetorical appeal, and it is actually more straight-forward. Start from the beginning of the document and work your way through to the end. Present details about the document and your analysis of those details in the order the original document presents them in. The writer of the original document likely organized the information carefully and purposefully. By addressing the document in this order, your analysis is more likely to make more coherent sense by the end of your paper. Provide plenty of evidence and support. Rely on hard evidence rather than opinion or emotion for your analysis. Evidence often include a great deal of direct quotation and paraphrasing. Point to spots in which the author mentioned his or her credentials to explain ethos. Identify emotional images or words with strong emotional connotations as ways of supporting claims to pathos. Mention specific data and facts used in analysis involving logos. Maintain an objective tone. A rhetorical analysis can make an argument, but you need to be scholarly and reasonable in your analysis of the document. Avoid use of the first-person words "I" and "we." Stick to the more objective third-person. Restate your thesis. Do not simply repeat the thesis in your introduction word-for-word. Instead, rephrase it using new terminology while essentially sharing the same information. When restating your thesis, you should be able to quickly analyze how the original author's purpose comes together. When restating your thesis, try to bring more sophistication or depth to it than you had in the beginning. What can the audience now understand about your thesis that they would not have without reading your analysis? Restate your main ideas. In restating your main ideas, you should also explain why they are important and how they support your thesis. Keep this information brief. You spent an entire essay supporting your thesis, so these restatements of your main ideas should only serve as summaries of your support. Specify if further research needs to be done. If more information should be done to further your efforts, say so. Indicate what that research must entail and how it would help. Also state why the subject matter is important enough to continue researching and how it has significance to the real world.
Identify the SOAPSTone. Examine the appeals. Note style details. Form an analysis. Identify your own purpose. State the text being analyzed. Briefly mention the SOAPS. Specify a thesis statement. Organize your body paragraphs by rhetorical appeals. Write your analysis in chronological order, instead. Provide plenty of evidence and support. Maintain an objective tone. Restate your thesis. Restate your main ideas. Specify if further research needs to be done.
https://www.wikihow.com/Raise-Your-Bed
How to Raise Your Bed
The easiest way to raise your bed is to purchase metal, plastic, or wood bed risers that will add the height you want. If you don't want to buy bed risers, you can make your own by gathering 4 wooden blocks that are the same height and width. Next, glue a piece of felt to the bottom of each block to prevent any scratches to your floor. Then, drill a hole in the center of each riser that your bedpost will fit snugly into. Finally, install the risers by lifting the bed frame one corner at a time, and lowering the bedpost into the hole on the top of each riser.
Decide between metal, plastic, and wood bed risers. These are the three main materials that you can buy risers in. Plastic is generally the cheapest, but it might not be as durable. Metal risers and wooden risers both hold a lot of weight and will last. Wooden ones are usually more attractive but may also cost more. Choose risers that will add the height you want. Risers come in a variety of sizes, usually ranging between 1 inch (2.5 cm) and 12 inches (30 cm). Use measuring tape to determine how much height you want to add to your bed in inches or centimeters. Pick the risers that will give your bed the exact extra lift you want. Some plastic risers can stack on top of each other, which can allow you to customize the height you add if you aren't finding risers in the exact size you want. Get risers that can support the weight of your bed. The packaging should tell you how much weight a riser can support. Remember to add your own weight and the weight of anyone else you might share your bed with to the weight of the mattress. The larger your mattress, the more durable you will want your risers to be. A set of four bed risers often claims to support over 1,000 pounds (450 kg). So in most cases it should not be difficult to find risers that will work for your bed. Pick risers that will match your room if you will leave them exposed. It's easy to conceal risers with a bed skirt or long sheets. But if you aren't going to cover them, make sure you like how they look. Many bed risers are neutral colors that match their surroundings easily. If you want to add an accent color to your room, you can also find risers in brighter shades, like pink, red, and yellow. Get four wooden blocks. You can also turn making bed risers into your next DIY project. The easiest and most reliable material to use is wood. Cedar blocks can work particularly well and look nice in your room. You can purchase wooden blocks from many home supply stores, like Home Depot or Lowes. Saw your blocks to an equal height. Decide how high you want to raise your bed and make sure each one of your risers comes to that height. Saw at the end you want to use as the top of the riser. That way, if you accidentally saw unevenly, the more level side of the block will be able to sit against the floor. When buying wood, ask the retailer to make the blocks the same height for you. They should be able to do it precisely with a power saw if you don't have one. Attach felt to the bottoms of your risers. Felt patches will prevent your bed risers from scratching your floor. Simply apply glue to the back of the felt and secure it onto the bottom of your risers. Drill a 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) to 3⁄4 inch (1.9 cm) indent to secure the bedposts. Measure your bedposts to determine how wide they are at the bottom. Then choose a drill bit that can make a small indent in the top of your riser that your bedpost will fit snugly into. This will help hold your bedpost in place and keep your bed frame stable and secure. Get a friend or family member to help you. You will need to lift both your mattress and your bedframe to put on your new risers. Having someone to help you will make the whole process much easier and safer. Remove the mattress from the bed frame. With your helper, lift the mattress and place it somewhere out of the way. Rest it against a wall to make it easier to lift back up and put on the bed frame when you're done. Lift a corner of the frame and guide the bedpost into the riser. Divide these two jobs between you and your helper. Once the bedpost is lined up with the hole or indent in the top of the riser, gently lower the bed frame. Check to make sure the bedpost is firmly in place. Repeat for all four posts of the bed. Once this process is over, gently shake your bedframe to make sure it is secure. Make sure that none of the risers holds its bedpost insecurely, as this could cause your bed frame to fall. Put your mattress back on the bed frame. Make sure the risers still seem secure with the weight of the mattress on them. If they are, your newly raised bed should be ready to sleep on. Use the extra space under the bed frame for storage, or simply enjoy having your mattress higher off the ground.
Decide between metal, plastic, and wood bed risers. Choose risers that will add the height you want. Get risers that can support the weight of your bed. Pick risers that will match your room if you will leave them exposed. Get four wooden blocks. Saw your blocks to an equal height. Attach felt to the bottoms of your risers. Drill a 1⁄2 inch (1.3 cm) to 3⁄4 inch (1.9 cm) indent to secure the bedposts. Get a friend or family member to help you. Remove the mattress from the bed frame. Lift a corner of the frame and guide the bedpost into the riser. Repeat for all four posts of the bed. Put your mattress back on the bed frame.
https://www.wikihow.com/Cook-Pork-Chops-in-the-Oven
How to Cook Pork Chops in the Oven
Before baking pork chops in the oven, marinate them by combining vinegar, oil, ketchup, and sugar in a bag. Place the chops in the bag to coat them, then refrigerate them for 30-60 minutes. To cook, place the pork chops in a single layer in a pan coated with melted butter and bake them for 10 minutes at 425 degrees F. Then, flip the pork chops and bake them for 15 minutes on the other side. When they're ready, let the chops sit for 3 minutes before serving them warm.
Combine the vinegar, ketchup, oil, and sugar. In a small bowl, whisk together the four marinade ingredients. Transfer to a glass dish or resealable plastic bag. Marinaded pork chops are great both baked and broiled. They retain moisture well. The type of vinegar you use will alter the way the marinade tastes. Apple cider vinegar adds a subtly fruity taste and generally is a good accompaniment to pork. Wine vinegars have a more potent, complex taste, and balsamic vinegar offers a blend of sweet and sour flavors. You can experiment with various types of other flavored vinegars until you find one that appeals to your personal sense of taste. Experiment with the ingredients of the marinade as desired. In general, marinades need to have an acid, like vinegar, and an oil. Other flavors can be contributed depending on the sweeteners, condiments, spices, and herbs you use. For example, another popular choice for pork chops is a marinade consisting of soy sauce, garlic, and ginger. Other acids, like pineapple juice or lemon juice, can be used instead of the vinegar. Coat the pork chops. Place the pork chops in the dish or bag with the marinade and turn several times to coat evenly. Refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes. Allow the pork chops to sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes so that the meat can absorb the flavors. A marinade also helps tenderize and moisten meat. The longer you allow the pork to sit in the marinade, the more flavorful it will become upon being cooked. If you leave it in for more than a few hours, however, you can actually cause the pork to become even tougher. Beat together the egg and milk. Beat the egg with a whisk in a small bowl with shallow sides. Whisk in the milk until combined. Breaded pork chops are better baked than broiled. They are more generally more common than marinaded pork chops, and the breading actually helps to prevent the meat from drying out by partially shielding it from direct heat. An easy way to beat an egg is to crush or pierce the yolk first before quickly whisking the yolk and white together. Crush the stuffing mix. Place the stuffing mix in a resealable plastic bag and crush using your hands or a rolling pin. Crush the mix until fine crumbs are formed. If using cornbread mix or dry bread crumbs, no crushing is necessary. Both pork stuffing mix and herb stuffing mix work well. Dip the pork chops in the egg mixture. Dunk the pork chops in the egg wash one at a time, coating all sides. Hold each pork chop over the bowl for a few seconds to allow excess egg to drip off. Egg acts as a binding agent and helps adhere the coating onto the meat. Coat the pork chops in the stuffing mix. Place each pork chop, one at a time, in the resealable plastic bag holding the crushed stuffing mix or crumbs. Seal the bag and give it a shake to coat all sides of the chop. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius). Prepare a baking pan by coating it with melted butter or nonstick cooking spray. Both marinades and breaded pork chops can be baked. Nonstick aluminum foil or parchment paper can also be used instead of butter or cooking spray. Place the pork chops in the prepared pan. Arrange the pork chops in a single layer, evenly spaced apart inside the pan. If desired, you can drizzle a small amount of melted butter over breaded pork chops to help them brown. Spraying them with a butter-based cooking spray will have a similar effect. Note that this may not make a difference in pork chops prepared with a marinade, however. Bake for 20 to 35 minutes, turning once. After 10 minutes, flip the pork chops to ensure even cooking. Continue baking until there is no longer any pink and the juices run clear. Note that for some marinades, the juices will always have some tint of color due to the color of the marinade. Serve warm. Let rest for at least 3 minutes before serving. Preheat the broiler. Pull out a broiler pan with an interior rack. Broil marinaded pork chops, but avoid using this method with breaded pork. The intense heat is likely to burn the coating too quickly. Most broilers only have an "on" setting, but if yours has separate "high" and "low" settings, preheat it to "high." A broiler pan is the best option because the rack keeps the meat raised above the rendered fat that drips off into the bottom of the pan. This can prevent the fat from becoming too hot and catching fire. Do not line the broiler pan with aluminum foil or coat it with nonstick cooking spray or butter. Transfer the pork chops to the broiler pan. Place the chops on the rack, spacing them evenly apart and in a single layer. Cook the chops 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Place the pan on the top rack of the oven. Cook for 5 minutes or until the top begins to brown. Flip and continue cooking until the other side is also brown. The finished pork chops should have no pink inside. Serve warm. Let rest for 3 to 5 minutes before serving.
Combine the vinegar, ketchup, oil, and sugar. Coat the pork chops. Refrigerate for 30 to 60 minutes. Beat together the egg and milk. Crush the stuffing mix. Dip the pork chops in the egg mixture. Coat the pork chops in the stuffing mix. Preheat the oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit (218 degrees Celsius). Place the pork chops in the prepared pan. Bake for 20 to 35 minutes, turning once. Serve warm. Preheat the broiler. Transfer the pork chops to the broiler pan. Cook the chops 5 to 7 minutes on each side. Serve warm.
https://www.wikihow.com/Set-a-Routine-for-Your-Hamster
How to Set a Routine for Your Hamster
If you want to set a routine for your hamster, use food and treats to help you gradually initiate changes. For example, to prompt your hamster to wake up at an earlier time, place a small bowl of fresh greens just outside its cage about 15 minutes before it usually wakes up. Slowly move the time back in 15-minute increments until the desired schedule is set. You can also offer dry food in the evening to regulate its eating and sleeping patterns without disrupting its nocturnal nature. If your hamster keeps you up at night with its activity, try playing with it right before you go to bed, which will wear it out.
Watch your hamster’s sleep patterns. Hamsters are nocturnal, so they will likely only wake up for short periods of time during the day and then they'll be active at night. Keep track of when your hamster is awake by writing it down or adding it to a daily planner. Eventually you should notice trends in its sleep routine. An example of a possible sleep routine is rising at dawn and dusk to eat and exercise for a few hours before going back to sleep. Your hamster will also wake a few times during the day to snack. Make gradual changes to its waking time. If you want to wake your hamster earlier than it normally rises, you'll need to make gradual changes so that it can adapt to the new schedule slowly. If, for example, it wakes at 8:00 and you want it up at 7:00, start waking it at 7:45 for about a week. Then move to 7:30 for several days, and follow this pattern until it's waking up at 7:00. Don't try to adjust your hamster's sleep schedule by more than an hour. This will stress it out and potentially cause illness. Place fresh food outside the cage to wake your hamster. To prompt your hamster to wake up at an earlier time, place a small bowl of food just outside its cage. It will smell fresh veggies, fruits, or seeds, and it should begin to stir. Wake it earlier by blowing on it or talking to it. If food doesn't inspire your hamster to get up, blow on it lightly until it starts to stir, or talk to it so it becomes aware of your voice. Don't reach into the cage and pick up a sleepy hamster, or you might get bitten. Respect its nocturnal schedule. If you've tried several methods to change up your hamster's sleep schedule without success, you may need to accept that it isn't meant to be a daytime creature. Trying to force a hamster away from its nocturnal schedule can result in a grumpy and unhealthy pet. Offer dry food in the evening. Place a bowl of your hamster's pellet food in the cage at the same time every night to help get your hamster on a schedule. This will keep you from disrupting their normal sleep routine during the day, and it also allows your hamster to do its foraging at night, the way it would in the wild. Offer some greens at the same time every morning. Hamsters can have a small amount of greens every day, and offering them at the same time each morning can prompt your hamster to wake up, just like the dry food will at night. Offer about 1 square inch (2.5 square cm) of vegetables like celery, broccoli or peas. Remove old or rotten food once a day. Hamsters are food hoarders. They'll often stuff their cheeks with new food, then carry it somewhere else in the cage and hide it. Look over the bedding (and dig through it a little if you need to) at least once a day to see what got left behind that has now gone bad or stale. Look in its bed and any areas of the cage that are opposite its bathroom area, since hamsters often try to avoid eating where they urinate. Refill the water bottle while it's awake. Hamsters should always have access to clean, fresh water, so make sure the water bottle is always full. To avoid startling it or upsetting it, change the water while it's already awake and exercising. Buy an appropriate wheel for its cage. Some wheels are too small for hamsters to get good exercise on them, and if they're uncomfortable, they may avoid exercising altogether. Buy a wheel that's at least 6.5 to 8 inches (16 to 20 cm) in diameter and is a solid piece of plastic rather than metal bars so that its feet can't fall through. Put your hamster in a clear exercise ball once a day. During one of your hamster's wakeful periods, place it into a clear exercise ball and allow it to roam your home. Try to do this at the same time every day when it's already awake, such as in the evening. Just keep a close eye on it so that it doesn't push the ball down stairs and injure itself. Play with your hamster before you go to bed. Do not remove a noisy wheel at night, since this is when hamsters need to exercise. Instead, play with your hamster before you go to sleep so you can wear it out as much as possible in the evening. Pick it up and handle it, play with toys, and have it run around in its exercise ball. If your hamster is still wired after your evening play session, move its cage to another room rather than taking anything away from it. Offer a treat after some exercise. Treats should be given sparingly to hamsters, but a good time to offer them is once a day after they've run on their wheel or in their ball. This way, you're rewarding it for exercising. Try a slice of apple, a few pieces of sugar-free cereal, or a spoonful of cooked pasta or rice.
Watch your hamster’s sleep patterns. Make gradual changes to its waking time. Place fresh food outside the cage to wake your hamster. Wake it earlier by blowing on it or talking to it. Respect its nocturnal schedule. Offer dry food in the evening. Offer some greens at the same time every morning. Remove old or rotten food once a day. Refill the water bottle while it's awake. Buy an appropriate wheel for its cage. Put your hamster in a clear exercise ball once a day. Play with your hamster before you go to bed. Offer a treat after some exercise.
https://www.wikihow.com/Be-an-Explorer
How to Be an Explorer
To be an explorer, start by finding an area that you want to explore, whether it's in your neighborhood or somewhere halfway around the world. Research your destination, then pack the necessary supplies, like a map, food and water, a notebook, and a compass, in a backpack. When you arrive, take notes on what you observe about your surroundings, like what you see, smell, or hear, so you can share your findings when you return from your adventure.
Find an area to explore. This can be a hidden door in your house, the woods, a trail, or just your neighborhood. There are always new things to be found even in the most “normal” of places. Feeling adventurous? What does the Earth have to offer your explorations? Do you live close to the mountains, the jungle, or a forest? If it's possible, venture into this unmapped territory – just make sure you're prepared for the specific obstacles each different terrain presents! Pack all your things in a backpack. You'll need a water bottle, some snacks, a notebook and pen, a flashlight, a compass, and whatever else might be useful for your specific trip. More ideas will be listed in the "Things You'll Need" section! Again, each trip calls for different things. If you're going camping for an entire weekend, you'll need camping gear, a tent, and enough food and water. If you're just going for an afternoon, you can travel a lot lighter. Make sure you wear your backpack correctly – you wouldn't want to hurt your back halfway through exploring! It shouldn't be too heavy, either. You'll wish you brought less as you carry it around, realizing it's just slowing you down. Invite a friend along. Having a second person will help you feel safer ''and'' you two can help each other – two sets of eyes are twice as powerful (and twice as quick). You may also need another set of hands for climbing trees, being on the lookout, or just to keep track of notes and directions. Make sure this friend is just as adventurous as you are. Someone who's afraid of heights, bugs, or just doesn't want to get their clothes dirty may end up slowing you down! Three or four people is okay too, but if you're just exploring for fun, you probably don't want too big of a party. When you hit more than four, it becomes a chore getting everyone on the same page. Wear clothes appropriate for where you are exploring. Climbing through the woods in your backyard? You'll want pants and tennis shoes to get through the dirt and to protect your legs from the brush and bramble. Exploring the beach? Bring boots for the sand, and don't forget the sunscreen! Make sure your friend knows what to wear, too! If they become miserable because they're not prepared, they might blame it on you. If necessary, have a map of the area you are exploring. The last thing you want is to get lost and to turn your adventure into an emergency. You'll also want to see where you've been. That way, upon your return, you'll be able to say exactly where you were and what you saw – and be able to retrace your steps when you want to recreate your awesome experience. If there is not a map of the area, make your own! It's fun, and makes you feel like a real explorer. You can make your own map of an area that is already mapped on the paper by adding extra details or correcting the map if it is out of date, too. Study up on your surroundings. It's a good idea to know what's normal, what's not, and to know what signs Mother Nature is giving you. Read up on star constellations, plants, weather signs, and always have a compass going in your head, too. Imagine going into a foreign country for the first time. You'll be a lot better off if you've done your research beforehand! This is especially important when it comes to things like poison ivy or bear tracks. You need to be able to say “Let's turn around!” when the timing is right. Exploring can be dangerous, and the more knowledge you have, the better off you'll be. Set up camp. Exploring is more fun when you have more time. If at all possible, pick a spot to call "exploration headquarters." If you can go overnight, great! Set up your tent in a nice, firm, even spot of ground away from any visible animal roosts. From there, consider a few of the following activities: Animal tracking Plant, animal, and insect identification Rock and terrain studies Digging for fossils or old relics Read, study, and talk to other people. Knowing you want to be an explorer isn't enough. You need to know what's out there that could use exploring. To wrap your head around all the opportunities that await you on our little blue marble, read books about exotic, untapped lands. Study up on your geography and knowledge of other cultures. Talk to other people about their experiences and places they find interesting. The more you know, the more you'll know exactly what you want to do and the more you'll be prepared to do it. Exploring on the professional level isn't just about exploring – it's about finding something to add to the knowledge of the world. You need another idea that you want to work on. Do you want to present research? Write a book? Doing your research will help you refine this idea. Settle on a project. All that reading and studying isn't for nothing – now that you have a decent idea of what's out there, you'll need to choose where you want to explore. The winter-torn rivers of Siberia? The dusty huts of the Nagas people in southern Africa? What's more, what do you want to do with that project? Is it going to result in new irrigation for African tribes? Or is it going to be a novel on living in Arctic climes? The more unique and interesting your project, the easier it will be to get started. When the exploration is over, you'll still have this work to complete – and you'll be able to live your travels all over again in completing it. Present your project to sponsors. Simply put, exploring costs money. Buckets and buckets of money, especially if you're doing it long-term or need expensive supplies to get whatever it is you're studying studied. Because of that, you'll need to find sponsors, media partners, and kind souls to get your project afloat and to give it the validity it needs – when you get back, you want to share your work with others, not just have it be over! Kickstarter is a great website for this. It is full of people proposing projects just like yours, and people donate money to the causes they believe in. When you're finished, you give them a shout out in your best-selling novel, or get them first in line to your documentary premiere. You'll need to sell it like it's all or nothing. You'll need to display to others your passion and be able to clearly state your vision, why it's important, and what ground it breaks. The more you believe in your project, the more others will, too. Prepare your body for the task. Most expeditions are going to be incredibly psychologically and physically taxing. Many explorers start intense workout regimens years before their project starts. That means weight-training, cardio, and changing up your diet. You'll be grateful you did when all is said and done! Be sure to train in accordance with your project. Will you be climbing trees or mountains? Get that upper arm strength top-notch. Trying to cover miles and miles of barren tundra every day? Start walking, jogging, and running daily. The more prepared you are, the more confident you'll feel during your trip. Join groups and societies dedicated to exploring. Look into joining the Royal Geographical Society, the Explorers Club, Explorers Connect, Travelers Club and the Long Riders Guild (if you're a bicyclist, of course) to pad your reputation as an explorer. These groups will not only be potential donors to your future explorations, but they'll also be full of people that will be invaluable resources down the line. You'll need to pitch what you're doing to these groups, too, just like you did your sponsors. But by now, you're a pro. So long as they see your professionalism and dedication, you'll be welcome with open arms. Be okay with people calling you crazy. Most people's reaction to, “I'm going to spend the next year living on the banks of the Congo river with the pygmy people!” is going to be, to put it lightly, disbelief and critical judgment. They might think you're insane, and that's fine – most explorers are a little bit crazy. But they're definitely never boring! The old adage that "they didn't say it would be easy; they said it would be worth it" definitely rings true here. You are quite literally taking the path less traveled, which plenty of people frown on. Don't let them get you down – this is doable. Believe in yourself through thick and thin. This is a tough path to tread – in fact, you'll literally be blazing your own trail. To get through all the naysayers, the paperwork, and the nights spent in a tent freezing your limbs off, you're going to need to believe in yourself and your work, that you're doing something that matters. Some days it will be the only thing that gets you through. Surround yourself with positive people to make it easier. Keep your family and friends close in the weeks beforehand to keep up your spirits and to keep the doubt at bay. It's very normal to think, "What am I getting myself into?!" but the doubt will fade as soon as you immerse yourself in your work. Be a survivor. There's no question about it: wherever you go, you're going to be in some serious uncharted area. You'll likely be alone in a type of situation you've never experienced before. How will you manage? With survival skills, of course. Learn the art of camouflage. In many situations, you'll need to blend in if for nothing else than to keep the wildlife from scurrying away from you so you can study it (in addition to protecting yourself!) Master how to build a fire. This one is pretty basic: you need heat and you need to cook food (at least to keep up your morale). You can also keep wild animals at bay if need be with fire. Be able to collect water. If your stash runs out, you'll be in dire straits unless you're able to collect water naturally. Knowing you have this as an option will let you breathe easier. Learn how to build shelter. To keep away from animals, bugs, and bad weather, you'll need a shelter. It will also be nice to have a place to call home. Master basic first aid. Whether it's a cut or a broken ankle, you are your own doctor. Master basic first aid, learning when and how certain medications are useful, in addition to learning how to splint or sterilize as need be. Always be looking. It doesn't matter if you're in your own backyard or paddling through the islands of Papua New Guinea – a good explorer is always on the lookout. If you're not, you'll go through the time spent on your trip not coming back with a thing. This project is all about being attentive. If you're going with a team, make sure you're utilizing numbers as much as possible. Everyone should have their own area they're covering to make sure no stone goes unturned. Alter your course on a whim. In exploring, it's a good idea to have a plan. However, will you stick to that plan? Likely never. When you notice something intriguing that takes you away from it, go for it. It's sometimes the littlest of things that lead to the biggest adventures. This is where your mapping and tracking skills will come in handy. When you go off course, you'll need to be able to get yourself back on it. Be sure you leave a trail you can take back, and/or plot your new course on a map as accurately as possible. Take notes on your findings. What good is exploring if you come back and can't fully remember what you've seen, heard, and done? You want to keep your memories as vivid as possible – so write it down! You'll need these for the project when you get back. Make charts, too. They're vivid and more illustrative of what it is you're experiencing – and they're quicker than writing out an essay about every little detail you're seeing. You can also reference these later to look for anomalies and patterns. Take time out of the day (or night) to do this. You don't want to constantly have your head stuck in a book – or you might miss exactly what it is you went looking for. Think about origins, patterns, and connections. Take a broken branch on the ground. On the outside, it's pretty insignificant. But if you actually think about where it came from and how it got there, it can lead you to a number of conclusions. Is a wild animal nearby? Was there a fierce storm recently? Is the tree dying? Take even the smallest things, put them together, and you may find answers. This trip, in the end, will be about conclusions. You'll need to take everything you've seen and piece it together until it becomes one giant, coherent puzzle (ideally, of course). In piecing it together, you'll be able to see what sticks out and deserves attention. Sit back and just observe once in a while. In addition to going out there with gusto and taking the world by storm, sometimes you just have to sit back and let it take you by storm. Be still. Observe. What are you starting to notice that you didn't before as the seconds creep by? Use all of your senses. Think of them one by one. What are you feeling on the bottoms of your feet, on the palms of your hands, and everywhere in between? What can you see, from the ground to the sky? What can you hear in the distance? Smell? Can you taste anything?
Find an area to explore. Pack all your things in a backpack. Invite a friend along. Wear clothes appropriate for where you are exploring. If necessary, have a map of the area you are exploring. Study up on your surroundings. Set up camp. Read, study, and talk to other people. Settle on a project. Present your project to sponsors. Prepare your body for the task. Join groups and societies dedicated to exploring. Be okay with people calling you crazy. Believe in yourself through thick and thin. Be a survivor. Always be looking. Alter your course on a whim. Take notes on your findings. Think about origins, patterns, and connections. Sit back and just observe once in a while.
https://www.wikihow.com/Wash-Flannel-Sheets
How to Wash Flannel Sheets
To wash flannel sheets, machine wash them with a mild laundry detergent and 1/2 cup of white vinegar, which will help prevent pilling. Use cold or warm water since high temperatures can cause flannel sheets to shrink and pill. Also, wash the sheets on a short or delicate cycle so the machine doesn't damage the fibers in the sheets. Once the sheets are done in the wash, dry them on low heat or hang them up to air dry.
Separate your sheets according to color. Before you begin washing, sort your bedding into two or more separate piles: lights, darks and colors. Washing dark or brightly colored sheets with white ones could cause bleeding or fading, leaving your sheets with a dingy, discolored look. In addition to sorting lights and darks, it may also be a good idea to wash dissimilar colors like red and blue separately. As long as you don't mix-and-match your flannel bedding, you should have no problem keeping it separated when it comes time to do laundry. Pre-treat flannel sheets with vinegar. The first time you put your flannel bedding through the wash, add one half cup (120ml) of distilled white vinegar. The acidity in the vinegar will prevent pills from forming. It also has the added bonus of locking in colors, making them less likely to run during future washings. Pills are little clumps of tangled napping, or the loose fibers on the surface of flannel. Pilling occurs when fabrics like flannel aren't properly maintained. Adding a splash of vinegar to the wash cycle now and then may also help keep your sheets fluffy and free of oily residue. Set the washing machine to a low temperature. It's best to wash your flannel sheets with warm water, although some manufacturers even recommend that the water be cold. Lower temperatures will be easier on the delicate structure of the fabric as well as the color. High temperatures can shrink the tiny fibers in flannel, resulting in pilling and a less comfortable sleeping experience. Add a small amount of mild detergent. Choose a detergent that's been specially formulated for use on delicates. Be careful not to use more than necessary—some detergents contain chemicals that put fabrics (especially soft ones like flannel) in danger of fading. A color-protecting detergent will come in handy for preserving the look of brightly colored bedding. Add colored detergents to a laundry ball or the dispenser on the washing machine so you don't have to pour them directly onto the sheets themselves. Wash the sheets on a gentle cycle. A slow setting that uses minimal agitation is perfect for cleaning flannel sheets without harming the delicate weave of the threads. When you're loading the washer, be sure to distribute the bedding evenly throughout the drum to prevent it from becoming bunched or tangled. If your washing machine doesn't have an option for different wash cycles, set it to a timed wash for the shortest duration. Dry the sheets on low heat. As with washing, drying flannel sheets with too high a temperature may lead to shrinkage and pilling. To prevent this, always select the lowest available heat setting, or simply let your sheets tumble dry. It will take longer, but it will be worth it to preserve the comfortable feel of your bedding. Give yourself plenty of time to get your laundry taken care of so you won't have to worry about soggy sheets at bedtime. Allow the sheets to air dry. If space permits, you might also choose to dry your flannel sheets by hanging them up. After removing the sheets from the washer and wringing out any excess water, stretch out the sheets to expose as much surface area as possible and hang them on a clothesline or drying rack. Save money on your energy bill by getting the sheets started in the dryer, then letting them finish air drying. If it's a nice day, you can speed up the drying process by placing the damp sheets in direct sunlight. Not only will the warmth of the sun help them dry faster, sunlight also makes a great natural disinfectant and deodorizer. Replace or put away the sheets. Once your sheets are dry, you can put them right back on your bed, or neatly fold them and stash them in the linen closet until cold weather comes around again. Leaving them to sit in a pile makes them more susceptible to wrinkles. Be sure to check your bedding for large pills, lint and loose threads. Give the sheets a good shake to fluff them up before making the bed. Treat stains right away. Once stains set into a soft surface like flannel, they can be next to impossible to remove completely. In the event of spills, leaks and other accidents, blot the affected area with a damp cloth while it's still wet. Afterwards, clean your bedding as usual, adding one quarter to one half a cup (60-120ml) of white vinegar to the washing machine as it fills. Use a mixture of warm water, hydrogen peroxide and mild liquid detergent to deal with substances that are likely to leave stains, like coffee or red wine. Be careful not to scrub the sheets too forcefully—over time, it's possible to wear holes into the fabric. Avoid using fabric softeners. Though they may sound like a good thing, the chemicals in fabric softeners have a tendency to coat and stiffen flannel fibers. Over time, this can leave your sheets feeling waxy. It's also a good idea to say no to dryer sheets for the same reason. To keep older flannel sheets soft to the touch, try throwing a couple (clean) tennis balls into the dryer with them. The movement of the tennis balls will help loosen up clumped fibers. One of the main selling points of flannel is that it's already soft, so there's no need to use a lot of conditioners and other products to keep it that way. Change out your sheets periodically. Rather than constantly washing and reusing the same set of sheets, invest in one or two additional sets and cycle them out between uses. Each set will last longer, and you'll appreciate the fresh new look your bed gets every time you do laundry. Remember to keep lights, darks and colored sheets separated in the wash.
Separate your sheets according to color. Pre-treat flannel sheets with vinegar. Set the washing machine to a low temperature. Add a small amount of mild detergent. Wash the sheets on a gentle cycle. Dry the sheets on low heat. Allow the sheets to air dry. Replace or put away the sheets. Treat stains right away. Avoid using fabric softeners. Change out your sheets periodically.
https://www.wikihow.com/Do-a-Cubist-Style-Painting
How to Do a Cubist Style Painting
To do a Cubist style painting, begin by choosing a subject that appeals to you. Some possibilities include a still life with flowers or a self-portrait—although Cubism is an abstract style, most Cubist painters work from life. Once you've decided what to paint, sketch it on the canvas in pencil. Then, look for ways to break the shapes down into more basic geometric forms. Finally, settle on a color palette for your painting—anything from shades of blue to an entire rainbow—and begin filling in the shapes you've created with paint.
Prepare your workspace. When doing any kind of art, you want to make sure you have a clean workspace. Choose an area with plenty of natural light and either a table or an easel to hold your canvas. Lay down newspaper in your work area to keep it clean. Use a glass of water and a soft rag to clean your paintbrushes between colors. Choose your canvas. For convenience it is simplest to buy a pre-made canvas, but you can stretch your own. Size and shape are up to you, but larger or mid-sized canvases are easiest to paint. If you just want to practice, you can also create paintings on large multi-media art paper. Your local art supply store should carry paper and canvas. Gather your remaining materials. To create your Cubist-style painting, you'll need sketching materials, a canvas, brushes, paint, and plenty of inspiration. You can use any type of paint to achieve a Cubist style, but acrylic works well, especially for beginners. Acrylic paints are versatile, often less expensive than oil paints, and make it easier to create crisp lines. Pick paintbrushes that are labeled for acrylic paints. Get a few different sizes for versatility while you paint. Make sure you have a pencil and gum eraser on hand to sketch before you begin to paint. You may also need a ruler or yardstick to help guide your lines and make them crisp and straight. Pick your subject. Though Cubism was an abstracted form of modern art, most Cubist painters drew from real life in their work. Though their paintings were highly fragmented and geometric, a subject was still discernible within them. Decide whether you want to paint a human figure, a landscape, or a still life. Choose something that you can look at and study in real life while you are painting. For example, if you want to do a figure, see if a friend can pose for you. If you'd like to paint a still life, arrange a group of objects or an object, like a musical instrument, in front of you. Sketch your subject in pencil onto your canvas. This will be the guide for your painting. Don't worry about capturing the details. Use broad, gestural strokes to capture the movement of whatever it is you are studying. Once you have a general sketch, use your ruler to sharpen the edges. In any place you've sketched soft, rounded lines, go back over them and change them into sharp lines and edges. For example, if you're sketching a person, you might go over the rounded line of the shoulder and make it look more like the top of a rectangle. Add more lines. You want the geometry of your painting to be more than just a basic outline of your subject. Think about different ways you can further break down the shapes in your painting. Look at the light. Instead of shading and blending, in Cubism, you will use the light to create shapes. Outline, in geometric shapes, where the light falls in your painting. Also, use geometric lines to show where you would generally shade in a painting. Don't be afraid to overlap your lines. Create your color palette. Within Cubism, artists focused on the form in a painting, rather than color. They often used neutral browns and blacks. In Braque's painting “Candlestick and Playing Cards on a Table,” you can see his use of neutrals to emphasize form. If you want to use bright colors, choose to use between one and three main bright colors so that your painting retains its striking geometry. You can also use a monochromatic palette in a single color family. For example, Picasso did many paintings mainly in shades of blue. Put your paints onto your palette or a paper plate in front of you. Use white to make shades lighter. Mix the colors that you want. Paint over your sketch. The sketch should be the guide for your painting. Use darker colors to thinly outline the individual geometric shapes that you created while sketching. Unlike in a traditional painting, you don't need to blend all your colors into each other. You want your lines to be distinct. With acrylic paints, you can layer colors to make your paintings feel more dimensional. If you need to do so, use your ruler to guide your paintbrush, like you did your pencil. You want your paint lines to be just as crisp as your pencil lines. Pick kid-friendly art materials. You want to choose materials that kids will find easy to work with and that won't create a large mess. Washable acrylic paints work well for painting with kids. You can also create a “painting” masterpiece with markers, crayons, or colored pencils. Choose a large sheet of art paper or a notebook of paper to make your Cubist style painting. You'll also need paintbrushes, and a pencil and eraser. Choose the subject for your piece. This could be something simple like a vase of flowers or even a single flower. You'll first draw this subject, and then use lines to break it up. Choose something you have on hand. You want to practice drawing from life instead of just drawing from your imagination. Practice making small sketches of your subject in a sketchbook. You want to decide exactly how you will draw it for your final painting. Sketch your final subject drawing on your art paper. You should draw lightly with your pencil so that if you make a mistake, you can erase it and start again. As you are sketching, remember that your drawing doesn't have to be completely realistic. It's okay to overlap lines and exaggerate features. You're just going to make it even more abstract. Break up bigger shapes in your drawing. Use a pencil and a ruler to draw straight lines in all directions. Use your creativity to decide where to place them. You don't want large areas of blank space in your drawing. You also don't want to create too many areas with a bunch of tiny geometric shapes. Paint the shapes in your drawing. You want to paint each of the sections you created individually. Experiment with using your brush in different directions to create texture. Use black or brown paint to create thin outlines around the shapes you made. Try to stick to using only a few different colors. Display your creation. Add any final touches, and remember to sign your name on the bottom of your Cubist style painting. These paintings make great decorations for children's bedrooms. They are also good gifts for Mother's Day, Father's Day, or Grandparents' Day.
Prepare your workspace. Choose your canvas. Gather your remaining materials. Pick your subject. Sketch your subject in pencil onto your canvas. Add more lines. Create your color palette. Paint over your sketch. Pick kid-friendly art materials. Choose the subject for your piece. Sketch your final subject drawing on your art paper. Break up bigger shapes in your drawing. Paint the shapes in your drawing. Display your creation.
https://www.wikihow.com/Remove-Scars-on-Legs
How to Remove Scars on Legs
To remove scars on your legs, exfoliate your legs regularly in the shower with a brush or scrub, which will help your scars fade faster. You can also try applying aloe vera gel or vitamin E oil to the scars on your legs since they both have skin-healing properties. If you're looking for something a little stronger, try using an over-the-counter scar-reducing cream on your scars 3-4 times a day until they fade.
Know what scars you have. Before you choose a treatment, it is essential that you know what scarring you are dealing with, as some treatments will only work for certain types of scars. You should always consult with a dermatologist before pursuing any treatment. The main scar categories include: Keloid scars : these are large, growth-like scars that result from a wound that heals itself too aggressively. Keloid scars may grow larger over time and sometimes even return after treatment. They are particularly common in people with darker skin tones. Hypertrophic scars : these are raised scars which are initially red or pink. They will fade on their own over time. These scars may be the result of burns or surgery and can be itchy. Atrophic scars : these scars are the deep pits that are left behind after severe acne or chicken pox. Stretch marks : these are thin, reddish-purple scars which happen because of rapid weight gain or loss. They are particularly common in pregnant women. Over time, these scars will fade and become white-ish. Contracture scars : these scars are usually caused by severe burns and may cover a large area of skin. These scars may feel tight, especially if they are around the joints, and can potentially limit body movement. Dark spots : these types of marks are not actually scars, but a type of post-inflammatory hyperpigmentation, usually caused by mosquito or other insect bites. Begin treating scars as soon as they appear. You should begin treating your scar - with a suitable cream or other treatment - as soon as the wound has completely healed. Most scar treatments will be much more effective on newer scars than on old ones, thus saving you time and money down the road. Exfoliate regularly. Most scars will eventually disappear on their own as skin rejuvenates itself - shedding old layers of skin and growing new ones. You can help this process along by exfoliating your skin regularly in the shower, using a body scrub or a bristled brush. Avoid exfoliating over fresh scars or healing wounds. Aggressive scrubbing can slow the healing process, or even make fresh scars worse. Apply sunscreen. This is one often overlooked piece of advice that can significantly reduce the appearance of scars. What many people fail to realize is that new scars are extremely sensitive to UVA rays, and exposure to sunlight can cause them to become much darker than they would be otherwise. By applying a sunscreen of at least SPF 30 to newly scarred skin, you can significantly minimize discoloration. If you have a larger scar – or a scar in a location that is frequently exposed to the sun – you may need to regularly apply sunscreen for up to a year while paying close attention to the scar's healing progress. Massage your legs. Regularly massaging your legs can help to break down the fibrous tissue which causes scarring. It also improves circulation which can aid with discoloration. Your can massage legs in the shower using a body brush, or you can use your hands to rub each leg using long, circular strokes. Use concealer. A good concealer can do wonders to hide scars on the legs. Make sure to get a concealer that matches your skin tone, and that you blend it in well with the surrounding skin. A waterproof concealer is best if you will be exposing your legs to unpredictable weather conditions, and theatrical make-up (which is much thicker than regular make-up) can work wonders for those with particularly bad scars. Use vitamin E oil. Vitamin E has been used in many health and beauty treatments for many years and many people swear by it as a successful treatment for scars. Vitamin E oil is moisturizing and contains powerful antioxidants, helping it to repair skin and improve the appearance of damaged tissue. You can take vitamin E capsules orally or you can apply the oil topically by bursting a capsule with a pin and applying the oil to the affected area. You may want to test the vitamin E oil on a small patch of skin first, before you apply it to any large areas of skin, as vitamin E oil may cause an allergic reaction in some people, resulting in contact dermatitis. Be careful not to exceed the daily recommended dose of vitamin E oil, whether you're applying it topically or taking it orally. Try cocoa butter. Cocoa butter is a natural product, which helps to reduce the appearance of scars by moisturizing and softening the outer and middle layers of skin, while simultaneously smoothing out the surface of the skin. You can use pure cocoa or use a lotion containing cocoa butter, which you should apply to the scarred area between 2 and 4 times a day. You should massage the cocoa butter into the skin using circular motions, making sure that it is almost completely absorbed by the skin. Be aware that cocoa butter will be most effective on newer scars than older scars, though you should still see an improvement either way. Apply lemon juice. Lemon juice is a common home remedy for scar treatment, which receives mixed reviews. It is believed to lessen the appearance of scars by acting as a bleaching agent to minimize redness, while also exfoliating, to help skin regenerate. While lemon juice has helped some people to reduce their scars, this method is not recommended by dermatologists, as lemon juice can be harsh and drying on the skin, and has not been scientifically proven to remove scars. If you do decide to try lemon juice on your scars, cut a small slice of lemon and squeeze the juice directly onto your scars. Leave the lemon juice on overnight or for several hours. Do not apply fresh juice more than once a day. If you feel the pure lemon juice is too strong, you can dilute it with water before applying or mix it with some blended cucumber to limit the harshness of the treatment. Use Aloe Vera. Aloe vera is a plant whose sap has well-known moisturizing and soothing properties. It is often used to treat burns, but can also be used as an effective natural scar treatment. Aloe vera contains anti-inflammatory and anti-bacterial properties, making it most effective in the treatment of fresh scars (though it should not be applied to open wounds). The aloe vera soothes the skin and helps it to regenerate, thus reducing the appearance of scars over time. To apply, break a leaf from an aloe vera plant and squeeze the clear, gel-like sap directly onto the scarred skin. Massage the sap into the skin using small circular motions. Aloe vera is very gentle on the skin, so you can reapply the sap up to four times a day. If you cannot get your hands on an aloe vera plant (though they should be available at most plant nurseries) there are many creams and lotions available which contain aloe vera extract, that may be equally effective. Give olive oil a try. Olive oil is another natural treatment which has been said to improve the appearance of scars. Extra virgin olive oil, in particular, is believed to produce the best results as it has a higher acidity level than other olive oils and a greater quantity of vitamins E and K. The oil works by softening and moisturizing the skin, causing the scar tissue to slacken, while acidity in the oil exfoliates the skin. Apply a teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil to the affected area and massage using small circular motions until the oil is absorbed. You can also use the olive oil as an exfoliating scrub by mixing it with a teaspoon of baking soda, which you can massage into the scars before rinsing off with warm water. You can increase the effectiveness of the olive oil treatment by blending it with another oil. Combine two parts olive oil with one part rosehip, chamomile or calendula oil and apply this blend to the scars. The added oils will increase the soothing properties of the olive oil. Try cucumber. Cucumber is a safe natural treatment which has been said to break down scar tissue, while cooling and soothing any inflamed skin around the scar. Again, this treatment will work better on fresh scars than on older ones. To use, peel a cucumber, chop roughly and blend in a food processor until it achieves a paste-like consistency. Apply a light layer of this paste to the scarred skin and leave it on overnight, or apply a thicker layer and wash off after 20 minutes. The remaining cucumber paste will keep covered in the fridge for several days, and you should continue to apply it to the affected area each night. You can increase the effectiveness of this treatment by mixing the cucumber paste with some of the aforementioned products, such as lemon juice, olive oil or aloe vera. Try scar reducing creams and gels. There are many products available over-the-counter at the pharmacy that claim to reduce the appearance or even remove scars. Whether these products will work for you, will depend on the type and severity of your scarring. Though medical professionals may be skeptical about the success rates of such creams , many people have found products like Mederma and Vita-K to be effective. Mederma works well for stretch marks and other types of scarring, if it is systematically applied 3 to 4 times a day, for up to six months. It works by softening and smoothing the scars, on the legs or any other area of the body. Use a silicone based scar sheet. Silicone scar sheets are a great, innovative way to deal with scars, especially those that may look unsightly. The scar sheets are self-adhesive, so they will stick to your skin while the silicone technology works to hydrate, soften, and fade the scars. The silicone sheets are available for purchase over-the-counter or online and each box will usually provide an 8 to 12 week supply. The silicone sheets have been proven effective in treating scars, but it will take time and patience to achieve noticeable results. The sheets must be worn over the scar every day, for 12 hours a day, over a 2 to 3 month period. Try bleaching creams. Bleaching creams, such as those containing the ingredient hydroquinone, reduce the appearance of scars such as stretch marks and dark spots by targeting the hyperpigmentation, which causes dark brown, black, bright red or purple scars. These creams will effectively lighten the color of the scars, causing them to become less noticeable over time. Be aware that hydroquinone-based creams, though effective, have been banned in the European Union as they are thought to contain carcinogenic properties and heighten the risk of skin cancer. Hydroquinone products are still available over-the-counter in the US, in concentrations up to 2%. Anything higher than that requires a prescription. Try dermabrasion. Dermabrasion is a method of exfoliating the skin, using a rotating wire brush or diamond wheel, which removes the top layers of skin over and around the scar. In the weeks following the procedure, new skin will grow back, and the appearance of the scar will be greatly reduced. Dermabrasion is usually used for acne and other facial scars, though it can be performed on the legs by a qualified surgeon. Dermabrasion on the legs is a delicate procedure as the skin on the legs is very thin and runs the risk of doing more harm than good if done incorrectly. Dermabrasion on the legs is usually only recommend for dark spots or indented scars caused by mosquito bites, etc. Keloid or hypertrophic scars (raised scars) should not be treated with dermabrasion. Make an appointment with a board-certified plastic surgeon who can analyse your scarring and decide whether you are a good candidate for dermabrasion. Be aware that these kinds of aesthetic procedures are not usually covered by insurance. Get a chemical peel. Chemical peels can be used to treat superficially scarring on the legs, and works particularly well for scars caused by hyperpigmentation. During a chemical peel, a dermatologist will apply a layer of acidic solution to the scarred skin and leave it on for approximately two minutes. You will experience a burning sensation, which should cease once the acid has been neutralized and the solution washed off. In the two weeks following the procedure, the top layers of skin will begin to peel away, leaving smooth, new skin behind. Depending on the scarring, you may need to go through several chemical peel procedures before you see a noticeable difference in the appearance of your skin. Be aware the new skin that is exposed after a chemical peel will be particularly sensitive and you will need to protect it by avoiding sun exposure and using a sunscreen with a high SPF for several weeks. Try laser treatments. Laser treatment is a great option for improving the appearance of deeper scars than those targeted by dermabrasion and chemical peels. Laser treatment works by burning away the scar tissue, allowing fresh, new skin to grow and replace the scarred surface. The area is numbed with a special cream before the procedure, so the treatment is not particularly painful. Another advantage is that the laser can pinpoint the scar precisely, so the surrounding skin remains unaffected. Laser treatment should only be received at a reputable clinic with a well-trained staff, as lasers can be dangerous if used incorrectly. You may need to return to the clinic for a series of treatments to fully remove the scar. The downside of this option is that laser treatment can be expensive, ranging from $1000 to $5000, depending on the size and depth of the scar. Get steroid injections. Steroid injections have been successfully used to treat keloid scars, which are notoriously difficult to get rid of. For small keloids the steroid injections, which contain substances such as hydrocortisone, are injected directly into the skin around the scar. Larger keloids are sometimes sliced or frozen off before the steroids are used. Steroid treatment is a process rather than a once-off procedure, and you will need to return to the clinic every two to three weeks to receive another injection. This treatment has a high rate of success, but is relatively costly and may cause skin discoloration in darker skinned patients. Consult with a cosmetic surgeon to decide if this treatment is best for you. Try collagen or other fillers. Injections of collagen or other fats can be very helpful in improving the appearance of indented scars, such as the pockmarks caused by chicken pox. Collagen is a natural animal protein, which is injected into the skin with a fine needle, thus filling in the indented scars. Though very effective, the results of collagen treatments are not permanent, as the body absorbs the natural collagen. You will need to get the scar refilled after about four months. Each collagen injection costs approximately $250, so this going down this route for scar treatment can be costly. You will need to have a skin test done before you receive any collagen injections, to ensure that you will not have an allergic reaction to the treatment.
Know what scars you have. Begin treating scars as soon as they appear. Exfoliate regularly. Apply sunscreen. Massage your legs. Use concealer. Use vitamin E oil. Try cocoa butter. Apply lemon juice. Use Aloe Vera. Give olive oil a try. Try cucumber. Try scar reducing creams and gels. Use a silicone based scar sheet. Try bleaching creams. Try dermabrasion. Get a chemical peel. Try laser treatments. Get steroid injections. Try collagen or other fillers.
https://www.wikihow.com/Know-If-You-Have-Herpes
How to Know If You Have Herpes
To know if you have herpes, watch for redness and itching around your genitals or mouth after you've had sexual contact, which could be a sign of herpes. Also, check for blisters on or around your genitals, which may form 6-48 hours after you notice other symptoms. Painful urination paired with other symptoms can also be a sign that you have herpes. If you think you have herpes, visit your doctor or a health clinic so you can get tested and receive treatment for your symptoms.
Learn about the herpes viruses. There are two types of Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), HSV-1 and HSV-2. Both can be considered genital herpes, since both types can be spread to the genitals. However, HSV-2 is far more common on the genitals. HSV-1 is the strain most common on the lips and mouth, but it can be spread through oral sex, just like HSV-2. There are ways to effectively treat the symptoms of both strains when they happen, though there is no cure. Treatment is an important part of managing the disease. If you don't treat genital herpes, you may spread the disease to others (including your baby, if you're pregnant), experience bladder inflammation, notice rectal inflammation and in severe cases, get meningitis. Watch for symptoms approximately 2 weeks after contracting herpes. While it may take a while for the first outbreak to appear, it's usually worse than outbreaks that come later. You may not know that you've been exposed to the disease, so pay particular attention to any symptoms you start to develop. General flu symptoms are signs of the infection. These might include fever, muscle aches, decreased appetite and fatigue. See a doctor if you think you're experiencing your first herpes outbreak. It may be difficult for some people to realize they've been exposed since it can take so long for symptoms to show up. Or, the because the disease can be spread through people that don't show obvious symptoms of herpes. Watch for redness and itching. After you've had sexual contact, pay attention to any redness or itching on your genitals or around your mouth. You may also notice tingling and hot skin at the affected area. A few days later, you may also see a rash or outbreak of herpes on your skin. You should also be aware of some external factors that may contribute to the outbreak after infection. These can include: Trauma, stress, or menses. These can release cortisol, adrenaline, and other stress hormones or dramatically change the levels of hormones in your body. Any of these may lower your body's ability to fight infection. This gives the herpes virus an opportunity to become an outbreak. Burning and itching before an outbreak (known as a prodrome). Reducing the itching and burning as herpes is on the verge of breaking out can speed up the outbreak. Scratching once the outbreak has happened can lead to more outbreaks and spread the virus. Sunlight and fever. Sunlight exposes your body to ultraviolet radiation which can irritate the skin and compromise the underlying cells, giving an opportunity for a herpes outbreak. A fever or cold compromises your immune system so your body can't suppress the infection, which leads to an outbreak. Look for blisters or on and around the genitals. You may notice small blisters (bulla or vesicles) appear approximately 6 to 48 hours after other symptoms emerge. If the blisters break open and become ulcers, you'll see that they're filled with straw-colored liquid. Look for more blisters on the lips, mouth, eyes, tongue and other parts of your body. You may feel a tingling sensation in the area before a blister appears. However you may have no blisters or symptoms at all. On women, blisters can appear on the labia, vagina, anus, cervix, buttocks and thighs. Ulcers usually heal within 7 to 14 days. On men, blisters generally appear on the scrotum, penis, buttocks and thighs. Notice any painful urination. During an outbreak, urinating can be very painful. If you're having trouble emptying your bladder during an outbreak, as some women report, get medical attention. Women should also look for non-specific vaginal discharge (any unnatural or unusual discharge that you're not used to). It may be clear, white, or off-white pale and may also have an odor, although this is different from woman to woman. Keep in mind that vaginal discharge is not a diagnosing symptom for herpes, but it is a possible symptom that, along with other symptoms, may help diagnose herpes. Visit your doctor or clinic for tests. It's important to know that routine STD tests do not test for herpes, so you will need to specifically ask for a herpes test. If you're currently experiencing an outbreak, the doctor can conduct a swab test, where a sterile swab is dabbed gently on the sore and sent to a lab for testing. Your doctor can use the culture to test for herpes. Your initial tests might include lab and imaging tests. If you are not having an outbreak, you will need a blood test. However this test is best administered 3-4 months after exposure to herpes, since it tests for antibodies (your immune system's response to infection). Usually the diagnosis is through a Polymerase Chain Reaction (PCR) based swab test. A synthetic swab is rubbed vigorously over abnormal skin, placed in a liquid and sent to the lab. Then, using specialized laboratory techniques, the sample is amplified many times to see if the patient has herpes. In some cases you doctor could do a herpes type-specific antibody test. This test uses an antibody to specifically target and determine whether the infection is HSV-1 or HSV-2. 50% of infected individuals usually test positive within 3 weeks after infection. If you've been infected for more than 16 weeks, this test will almost always prove positive. Your doctor may also consider a PCR swab of lesion test. A sterile swab is used to vigorously swab the base of the lesion— applying enough pressure to collect epithelial cells without causing bleeding—and collect vesicular fluid. This is then sent to the lab for diagnosis. Treat your symptoms with antiviral herpes medications. If you test positive for herpes, your doctor will prescribe medications help to suppress the virus and its symptoms. Medication also reduces the risk of spreading the herpes simplex virus to others. Start treatment immediately or as soon as possible and take them according to your doctor's directions. Antiviral herpes medications include: Acyclovir. This is a first-line drug for genital lesions or frequent lesions on the labia from herpes. It can also be used topically to treat inflammation on eyes infected with herpes. Acyclovir is considered fairly safe in pregnant and nursing women and it's also used for pediatric cases. Penciclovir. This is a cream that is used as a first-line medication to treat oral lesions topically. Valacyclovir. This is a first-line medication used to treat primary and recurrent genital herpes. Foscarnet. This is considered a second-line medication and is used when there is a resistance to the preferred first-line medication acyclovir. This can happen in immunocompromised individuals suffering from a systemic herpes infection. Manage your herpes by taking control of your situation. Read up on herpes and learn about the virus and the infection. The more you understand about what is going on in your body, the easier it will be to cope and deal with flare-ups and breakouts. Herpes is well-documented and highly-researched. There is ongoing research in this area and new treatments may on the way. Your doctor will also have many recommendations and can keep you up to date on the latest medications available to you. Avoid spreading the infection. Take time to explain your condition to your sexual partners before you engage in behaviour that could transmit herpes -- this talk can be combined with a sexual health talk. Take precautionary measures to avoid further spreading the virus. These may come from lifestyle changes. For example, learn to recognise early signs of an outbreak, and consider exploring sexual practices that will not involve your outbreak site during these times. Use a condom in-between outbreaks. If you touch a herpes sore, particularly when you are newly diagnosed, wash your hands with soap and water - your body will not possess antibodies for a few months and you could accidentally spread it to your eyes or mouth. If you have an active cold sore on your mouth, don't kiss anyone. Check for high risk factors. Realize that many people with genital herpes live without symptoms for a long period of time. Using high risk factors to determine your need for a test can help with early treatment. Factors that increase your risk of getting herpes include: Immunocompromised states. A compromised immune system on its own won't give you herpes, but it will make it harder for your body to protect itself and fight an infection or breakout. Illness, stress, AIDS, cancer, diabetes, and even old age can be factors may make you more vulnerable to infection by the herpes HSV-1/HSV-2 virus. Atopic eczema in children (also known as atopic dermatitis). Eczema is a common itchy skin disorder, but if eczema skin is infected with herpes, it can lead to a serious skin condition. Occupational workplace exposure. Some professions that are exposed to the virus may be at higher risk of getting herpes. For example, dental health providers are at higher risk of contracting HSV-1, resulting in a extremely painful infection of the hand. Consider your sexual contact. Condoms help reduce, but do not eliminate the risk. Sexual activity places you at the highest risk of getting HSV-2 and HSV-1. But, even protected sex can spread herpes, especially during an outbreak, though it can still be spread if there are no symptoms. Herpes is spread across the moist linings (mucosal areas) of the skin, so oral, anal, penile and vaginal openings are at greatest risk for transferring the disease. When any infected area of one person comes into contact with another mucosal area of an uninfected person, the disease may be transmitted. Types of contact that can easily spread herpes include: kissing, oral sex, anal sex, and vaginal sex (or any combination of these where the mucosal membranes come into contact with each other). Determine your recent number of sexual partners. Since herpes can be contracted orally and through genital contact, your chances of getting the disease increase with the number of sexual partners you have. The more partners you have, the higher your risk of getting genital herpes. However, contracting herpes does not mean someone necessarily had sex with many partners; you can get it from one person, one time. Also, many people contract HSV-1 on their mouths when they are in elementary school, or from kissing relatives when they are young. Understand your increased risk, if you're female. Women are more prone to get herpes because it's transferred more easily from men to women than from women to men. For example, women have a 20.3% infection rate for HSV-2 versus a 10.6% rate among men. According to The Center for Disease Control, 1 in 6 people in the U.S. between 14 and 49 years old has genital herpes.
Learn about the herpes viruses. Watch for symptoms approximately 2 weeks after contracting herpes. Watch for redness and itching. Look for blisters or on and around the genitals. Notice any painful urination. Visit your doctor or clinic for tests. Treat your symptoms with antiviral herpes medications. Manage your herpes by taking control of your situation. Avoid spreading the infection. Check for high risk factors. Consider your sexual contact. Determine your recent number of sexual partners. Understand your increased risk, if you're female.
https://www.wikihow.com/Choose-Developer-for-Hair-Color
How to Choose Developer for Hair Color
If you want to choose the correct developer for your hair color, you'll need to know how many shades you want to change your hair color by, as this will determine the developer you use. To change your hair by one shade, use volume 10 developer, since this is the weakest level and won't remove any of your existing color. For slightly bigger changes in hair color, opt for volume 20 developer, which will change your color by 1 to 2 shades. You could upgrade to volume 30 to change your color 3 to 4 shades, but keep in mind it can damage thin or fine hair. If you want to go any lighter, see a professional stylist to avoid damaging your hair.
Use volume 10 developer to lift your color a single level. Volume 10 is the weakest developer level, as it contains only 3% hydrogen peroxide. Volume 10 is a good option if you are going just a bit darker than your current hair color and you do not need to lift, or remove, any of your existing color. It is also recommended if you have thin or fine hair, as it will not be too strong. This developer is also ideal if you are going to be using toner on your hair because it will balance out the toner. You may need to use toner if your hair color is brassy. Choose volume 20 developer to change your hair color by 1 to 2 shades. Volume 20 is the most popular developer level, as it contains 6% hydrogen peroxide, which is a moderate amount. This option is also good if you want to cover grey hairs. Volume 20 is good for thick hair, as it will be strong enough to open your hair cuticles. Opt for volume 30 developer to change your color by 3 to 4 shades. Volume 30 contains 9% hydrogen peroxide and is ideal for altering your hair several shades. It is pretty strong and should only be used on thick or coarse hair, as it can damage thin or fine hair. Many store-bought hair dye and developer packets contain volume 20 or volume 30 developer. Avoid using volume 40 developer so you do not damage your hair. Volume 40 is not recommended for non-professional use, as it is very strong and can dry out your hair if it is not applied correctly. This developer level is often only used for major hair color changes and should not be used at home. If you believe you require volume 40 to properly dye your hair, go to your local salon and allow a professional to dye your hair for you. Look for hair dye and developer sold together for an easy option. Developer is often sold with hair dye in a package, so you don't have to worry about choosing the right volume. Getting them together is ideal because the developer will be the right strength for the color on the package. However, keep in mind that the hair color will likely look different on you than it does on the model on the box. Your hair color will most likely turn out a shade or two darker or lighter than the image on the box. Buy the developer separately if you bought a tube of dye. If you bought a lone tube of hair dye, get the developer separately. Choose the developer volume you need. Buying developer separately may help you achieve the desired results. \ If you bought boxed dye with the developer included, it is not a good idea to buy separate developer. Use the developer in the box for the best results. You may want to purchase the same brand to of dye and developer to ensure that they will work well together. Purchase more developer and hair color than you think you might need. Running out of developer and hair color when you are halfway into the dyeing process can cause your hair to come out uneven or improperly dyed. Avoid this by getting an extra box of developer and hair color so you have it on hand. A good rule of thumb is to get at least 2 to 3 boxes of hair color and developer for long hair (past your shoulders) and 1 to 2 boxes of hair color and developer for short hair (above your shoulders). Wear gloves and a hairdresser's cape. Wearing latex or nitrile gloves will protect your hands from the dye. Put on a pair of clean gloves before mixing and applying the dye. You should also put on a hairdresser's cape or an old shirt to avoid getting dye or developer on your clothes. To protect your bathroom or kitchen counters, spread newspaper out around the sink. Identify the developer to dye ratio on the package. Most developer to dye ratios are 1 part hair color to 2 parts developer. Check the ratio on the hair dye package to be sure you are using the recommended amount. If you are not sure about the ratio, don't guess. If you don't mix the right ratio, your hair color may not come out as desired. Ask a professional hair stylist or visit a salon and allow them to dye your hair for you. Mix the developer and the dye together. Combine the correct amounts of developer and hair dye together in a plastic bowl. Mix the developer and dye together using a plastic spoon. Make sure the dye and developer are well combined. Then, apply the mixture to your hair as desired. If you want to dye all of your hair , then apply the dye to your whole head starting at the ends and working up toward the roots of your hair. If you just want to highlight your hair , you will need to section your hair and apply the dye to specific sections only. You can use foil strips to wrap each section and prevent the dye from getting on the surrounding strands.
Use volume 10 developer to lift your color a single level. Choose volume 20 developer to change your hair color by 1 to 2 shades. Opt for volume 30 developer to change your color by 3 to 4 shades. Avoid using volume 40 developer so you do not damage your hair. Look for hair dye and developer sold together for an easy option. Buy the developer separately if you bought a tube of dye. Purchase more developer and hair color than you think you might need. Wear gloves and a hairdresser's cape. Identify the developer to dye ratio on the package. Mix the developer and the dye together.
https://www.wikihow.com/Forget-a-Person
How to Forget a Person
If you want to forget a person, avoid situations where you know you will see them, and block them from contacting you on your phone or social media. Get rid of objects around your house that remind you of the person, or put them in a box where you can't see them if you don't want to throw them out. If your mutual friends know the person you're trying to forget, ask them not to talk about that person around you. Instead, stay busy by pursuing your own hobbies and interests and spending time with people who genuinely care about you.
Cut off physical contact. You cannot forget someone if you still see him or her all the time, or constantly hear about his or her activities. Consider these strategies: Make sure you won't run into this person during your day-to-day activities. If you go grocery shopping at the same time, or take the same route home from work, tweak your schedule slightly so a chance meeting becomes more unlikely. For right now, avoid social gatherings where you know he or she will be present. Politely explain to the host that you hope the event goes well, and that you are staying away only because you want to avoid a painful encounter. Remove him or her from your electronic life. In today's day and age, the people we associate with are more often than not through a screen. Even if you don't see the person, it's far too easy to see what they're up to. Though it may seem harsh, remove him or her from all the forms of social media that you use. Delete his or her contact information from your phone and email account Block his or her Facebook profile, Twitter, Instagram, etc. Take any other measures to prevent unwanted contact. If necessary, change your email address. Ask your mutual friends to stop updating you on this person's doings. Something terribly interesting might have happened, but you do not need to hear about it. If your friend forgets and accidentally mentions this person to you, gently remind him or her of your request, saying something like, "I'm sorry, Jane, but it's too upsetting for me to think about Bill. Maybe we could talk about something else." However, you may wish to add an addendum to this policy: sometimes learning the right things will help you find closure. Maybe this person has taken up smoking, moved to a different town, or lost their job. Let your friends know that if they think knowing something may help you find closure, they should say something. Get rid of what reminds you of this person. Purge your life of anything that brings up painful memories of this person. Not looking at these things every day will help you move on. If you can't bear to get rid of certain items, bag them up and ask a family member or close friend if you can store them in their house, away from easy access. Request the items be kept out of your reach for at least 6 months. Go through your MP3 player and delete any songs that remind you of him or her. Replace them with encouraging, upbeat tracks that encourage you to be confident and forge ahead. If you have a child or a pet with this person, obviously you cannot just get rid of them. Instead, focus on the things you have done to nurture this being and give it a good life. Don't let the desire for revenge consume you. Recognize that wanting to take revenge on someone (by making him or her jealous, upset, or sorry) still qualifies as thinking about them. You can't move on and forget if you're obsessed with vengeance, so learn how to let it go. If you believe in a higher power, karma, or some form of cosmic justice, reason that he or she will get the appropriate payback eventually. If you do not believe that someone else will dole out payback on your behalf, make peace with the fact that life is not fair. This person may have hurt you unjustly, but that does not give you the right to act out. Remember the old George Herbert quote: "Living well is the best revenge." Going on with your life and refusing to sink to the other person's level communicates to him or her that you will not be affected by what happened, essentially rendering it insignificant. Set aside time to express your feelings. If you have tried everything and still cannot resist thinking about him or her, try a new approach. Set aside a limited amount of time (such as an hour or two) to sit down and write out all your feelings about what happened. Once time is up or you've run out of things to say (whichever happens first), close the document and put it away somewhere. Next time you are tempted to dwell on this person, tell yourself, "No, I've already expressed my feelings about that. I won't waste time by doing it again." If absolutely necessary, grant yourself 10 or 15 minutes each day to feel emotional. When those minutes are up, tell yourself you'll think about it tomorrow. As the days tick by, you'll need fewer and fewer of those minutes. Even noticing that you need fewer and fewer minutes will help you feel good, too. Keep your mind distracted. Luckily enough, you control your thoughts. If you don't want to think about something, you don't have to. Busy yourself with school, work, or a project that will keep your mind focused. When you have other things to think about, they'll fade into the background. If you do find yourself thinking of them, shift your attention. We all daydream and find ourselves thinking things we're surprised we're thinking. The second they creep in your mind, tell yourself you're not going to think about it, or that you'll think about it later (hint: you won't need to). Find someone to talk to, a game to play, or anything else that can keep your attention, even if it's just for a few minutes – that's all you'll need. Don’t listen to emotional music or movies. Trying to forget a person is a set up for mood swings and depression. Right now you may feel like you're in a very vulnerable place. The last thing you need is outside stimuli that cultivates this emotion, so keep the music you listen to upbeat and only watch feel-good TV or movies. Ask your friends to keep this in mind, too. They can help keep things light and airy to keep your mind off of things. When you need the boost, call them up, and they'll know just what to do to make you feel better. Value yourself. Odds are this person you're trying to forget did you some kind of wrong. In the end, they didn't value you like they should've. This is the type of person that shouldn't be in your life anyway. By valuing yourself, it's much easier to realize that. They didn't treat you right and that's that. You only surround yourself with people who do. Keeping in mind your self-worth will make it much easier to get the ball rolling. Remember: you're awesome! The whole world is in front of you and just bubbling with opportunities. What are you going to do next? Pursue your passions. Keep yourself on the right track by replacing the time you would have spent with this person (or would have spent thinking about him or her) with a new activity. Take up a hobby you have always wanted to try, join an intramural sports league, or start a new form of exercise. Whatever it is, it should be so interesting and engrossing that you can't manage to think of anything else while you're doing it. Mastering a new skill and bettering yourself will make you feel good. You may even feel like a new and improved person that's too good for the person you're forgetting, improving your self-esteem. Improving yourself is the best thing to do in this situation for you, your self-worth, and your peace of mind. Eat right and exercise. Have you ever gone through one of those periods where you can't seem to stop eating junk food and all you want to do is sit on the couch and watch terrible reality television? And the kicker is that it doesn't feel good – being lazy and unhealthy feels pretty terrible. Eating right and exercising makes it much easier to feel energized and positive about your circumstances and yourself. Have a diet that's mostly fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean meats. Get a balance of fiber, protein, complex carbohydrates, and healthy fats (like the ones found in fish, nuts, or olive oil). Stay away from processed junk that gives you a kick initially, but in the end just slows you down. Aim to exercise for 30 minutes a day, whether it's walking, swimming, running, or even dancing or cleaning the house. Do it in small chunks if your schedule doesn't allow for large chunks of time. Even small efforts, like parking far away from the entrance, will add up over time. Surround yourself with friends and family. The best way to keep your mind busy, your schedule busy, and yourself positive, is to surround yourself with fantastic people that genuinely care about you. Whether that means your mom, your sister, your best friend, a theatre group, or your basketball team, stick with them. They'll keep you laughing and help you see that you have a million things going for you. When you feel like you'd rather hole up and hide under the covers, allow yourself to be a homebody for an hour or so and then put a stop to it by saying yes to that invitation and going out and being social. You won't feel like it initially, but by the end of the night, you'll be glad you did. Allow yourself time. The human brain is wonderfully self-healing. The old adage “time heals all wounds” has always been true and always will be. Naturally, the brain starts focusing on the here and now, forgetting the past and often modifying it how it sees fit. So if it's been a few weeks, relax. These things take time. Your brain will do the job for you if you're patient. The grieving process is natural and, in most cases, has to be gone through. There are 5 stages, and they may take a while to complete. Be patient with yourself – you'll see progress as times passes. Forgive and forget. In the end, forgetting someone is virtually impossible to do if you can't forgive them. If you're following all the above steps and still can't manage to forget, work on forgiving instead. They're just a human and things happen. Life goes on. Don't forget to forgive yourself. For many of us, we hold grudges against ourselves more easily than we hold grudges against others. Remember that at the time, you did what you thought was right. They did, too. No one is to blame or is at fault. The past is in the past and it's going to stay there. And that is for the best – this way, you're free to move on.
Cut off physical contact. Remove him or her from your electronic life. Ask your mutual friends to stop updating you on this person's doings. Get rid of what reminds you of this person. Don't let the desire for revenge consume you. Set aside time to express your feelings. Keep your mind distracted. Don’t listen to emotional music or movies. Value yourself. Pursue your passions. Eat right and exercise. Surround yourself with friends and family. Allow yourself time. Forgive and forget.
https://www.wikihow.com/Celebrate-the-New-Year
How to Celebrate the New Year
To celebrate the New Year, have your guests arrive around 9 PM, since they'll need to be up until midnight. Help your guests get in the spirit with hats, confetti, noisemakers, and New Year's themed party favors. Additionally, serve traditional New Year's party foods such as fancy cheese and crackers, hors d'oeuvres, and champagne. Alternatively, host a potluck and assign each guest a food or drink item to bring.
Go to an “open-air” event. These "street party"-type events often include performances by live musicians or DJs, confetti, and a fireworks display. Some require tickets to be purchased ahead of time, and some are free to attend. There are many New Year's Eve events all over the world that garner national attention: Times Square in New York, USA; Sydney Harbour in Sydney, Australia; Central London in London, England; the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France; and the Brandenburg Gate in Berlin, Germany. Many cities offer open-air celebrations and street parties that you can attend. If your city or town doesn't already have an open-air party, you can start one! Sites like Meetup are a great place to get started. Go to a dance club. If you're looking to party hard while ringing in the New Year, gather your friends and go to a club. Clubs will bring in the best DJs they can find and offer competitive drink specials. Attend a formal event. Many upscale hotels and restaurants host catered New Year's Eve galas. They will have performances from orchestras, jazz bands, or professional singers and musicians. Tickets have to be purchased ahead of time. Most of these formal events require formal, or “black tie” attire. Go to a casino. Aside from playing cards and slot machines, casinos often host New Year's Eve celebrations that include dinner and a show from professional singers, tribute bands, or comedians. You must be 21 or older (or age of majority outside of United States ie 19 or older throughout Ontario, Canada) to enter a Casino. Las Vegas hosts a party where all the casinos work in tandem to create one strip wide party. Attend a midnight church service. Some people will attend a midnight service that's held on New Year's Eve, called a Watch-Night service. They'll often include food, singing, and a message from the church's leadership. Celebrate at a house party. It is likely that someone you know will be throwing a house party for the New Year. Ask around and choose which party best fits your celebration desires (party size, activities, location, etc). It might be a fully hosted party or a potluck. Make sure you get all the information ahead of time so you know whether to bring food or drinks. Go out for dinner. Whether it's a family-friendly restaurant with your kids or your favorite restaurant for a night out with friends, going out to eat is a great low-key way to celebrate the New Year. Some restaurants may have New Year's specials on food and drinks. Make reservations several days ahead as restaurants tend to be busy on New Year's Eve. Hold a friendly gathering. Gather some of your friends and arrange a meet up at one of your favorite locations. It could be a bowling alley, restaurant, club, or city park. Decide ahead of time what to wear, who brings what, and any other details. You're basically planning an impromptu party. Go on a date. What's more romantic than celebrating new beginnings? Grab your loved one, make a reservation (way ahead of time), and share the New Year together over a nice meal. You can follow that up with some colorful fireworks and a midnight kiss. Invite people over. If you don't want to go out to celebrate the New Year, invite people over to your place. You can invite a few people for a small gathering, or throw a big New Year's bash. Make your own party favors. Holidays are a great opportunity to get crafty. You can create your own New Year's themed party favors. Hats, confetti, and noisemakers are great New Year's party favors. For ideas on how make these party favors, scour the internet or craft magazines. If you want to be really creative you can make up your own New Year's themed games for your party guests. Make party food. You can cook up some fun New Year's themed party food. Fancy cheese and crackers, party pastries, hors d'oeuvres, and a variety of deserts will please your guests. If you don't want to put the effort into doing that, any food that is easy to pass around will work, or order some pizzas (just make sure you order early). Provide drinks. Most people drink champagne when the ball drops at midnight, but any drink will do just fine. For variety, you can provide wine, beer, and cocktails as well. If there are kids provide apple juice, sparkling cider, or another non-alcoholic beverage. If you don't want the kids to stay up until midnight you can let them ring in the New Year a few hours early by letting them watch the ball drop in another part of the world several hours ahead of your time. Host a potluck. If you don't feel like taking on the burden of food and drinks for your guests, ask them to bring the food and drinks. In exchange, you're providing the location and entertainment for the party. Each person can bring one or two items, be it food, drink, or both. By the time everyone gets there, you should be set with everything you need to supply the party. Stay home alone. If you want to avoid the crowds, you can just relax at home and watch a movie. There are New Year's themed movies to choose from, but you aren't limited to those of course. You can still watch the ball drop on TV or join your neighbors outside at midnight if you're feeling up to it. Start a family tradition. Many families will create traditions around the New Year. Since the holiday represents the beginning of change some people discuss New Year's goals or challenges. Some families will share a formal dinner out or at home to celebrate. Many families will honor their heritage's traditional practices together. Honor a personal tradition. It's never a bad time to start a personal tradition, whether it's going out to a party, staying home, watching fireworks, or celebrating the New Year in your own unique way. Celebrate a cultural tradition. Depending on where you're from, different traditions take a different form. You don't have to be from that region, of course. If something strikes your fancy, you can adopt a tradition just because you want to. In Greece, parents bake a cake and hide a lucky coin in it. They cut the cake at midnight and eat it. Whoever gets the piece with the lucky coin has good fortune for the upcoming year. In Belgium, children write New Year's letters to their parents and read them out loud. In Estonia, people will often eat up to 12 meals to celebrate the New Year. Some of the meals are left for spirits who visit the house on the holiday. In Ireland, women put mistletoe underneath their pillows at night for good fortune. In Germany, people eat marzipan pigs and jam-filled donuts as a token of good fortune.
Go to an “open-air” event. Go to a dance club. Attend a formal event. Go to a casino. Attend a midnight church service. Celebrate at a house party. Go out for dinner. Hold a friendly gathering. Go on a date. Invite people over. Make your own party favors. Make party food. Provide drinks. Host a potluck. Stay home alone. Start a family tradition. Honor a personal tradition. Celebrate a cultural tradition.
https://www.wikihow.com/Calculate-Torque
How to Calculate Torque
To calculate torque, start multiplying the mass of the object exerting force by the acceleration due to gravity, which is 9.81. When the force is clockwise, its torque is negative, and when it's moving counterclockwise, it's positive. If more than one force is present, add up all the torques to get the net torque of the combined forces.
Find the length of the moment arm. The distance from the axis or rotational point to the point where force is applied is called the moment arm. This distance is typically expressed in meters (m). Since torque is a rotational force, this distance is also a radius. For this reason, you'll sometimes see it represented with an "r" in the basic torque equation. Work out the force being applied perpendicular to the moment arm. The force applied perpendicular to the moment arm produces the greatest torque. The simplest torque equation assumes the force is being applied perpendicular to the moment arm. In torque problems, you'll typically be given the magnitude force. However, if you have to work it out yourself, you'll need to know the mass of the object and the acceleration of the object in m/s. According to Newton's Second Law, force is equal to mass times acceleration ( F = m × a {\displaystyle F=m\times a} ). Multiply the force times the distance to find the torque. The basic formula for torque is τ = F × r {\displaystyle \tau =F\times r} , where torque is represented by the Greek letter tau (τ) and equals the force (F) times the distance (or radius, r). If you know the magnitude of the force (in Newtons) and the distance (in meters), you can solve for the torque, expressed in newton-meters (N∙m). For example, suppose you have a force perpendicular to your object exerting 20 Newtons of force on the object 10 meters from the axis. The magnitude of the torque is 200 N∙m: τ = 20 × 10 = 200 {\displaystyle \tau =20\times 10=200} Show the direction of the force with positive or negative torque. You now know the magnitude of the torque, but you don't know if it's positive or negative. This depends on the direction of the rotation. If the object is rotating counterclockwise, the torque is positive. If the object is rotating clockwise, the torque is negative. For example, if the object is moving clockwise and the magnitude of the torque is 200 N∙m, you would express this as -200 N∙m of torque. No sign is necessary if the magnitude of the torque is positive. The value given for the magnitude of the torque remains the same. If a negative sign appears before the value, it simply means that the object in question is rotating clockwise. Total individual torques around a given axis to find the net torque (Στ). It's possible to have more than one force acting on an object at a different distance from the axis. If one force is pushing or pulling in the opposite direction of the other force, the object will rotate in the direction of the stronger torque. If the net torque is zero, you have a balanced system. If you're given the net torque but not some other variable, such as the force, use basic algebraic principles to solve for the missing variable. For example, suppose you're told that the net torque is zero. The magnitude of the torque on one side of the axis is 200 N∙m. On the other side of the axis, force is being exerted from the axis in the opposite direction 5 meters from the axis. Since you know that net torque is 0, you know that the 2 forces must add up to 0, so you can construct your equation to find the missing force: 200 + ( F × 5 ) = 0 {\displaystyle 200+(F\times 5)=0} F × 5 = − 200 {\displaystyle F\times 5=-200} F = − 200 5 {\displaystyle F=-{\frac {200}{5}}} F = − 40 {\displaystyle F=-40} Start with the distance of the radial vector. The radial vector is the line that extends from the axis or point of rotation. It could also be any object, such as a door or the minute-hand of a clock. The distance to measure for the purposes of calculating torque is the distance from the axis to the point where the force is applied to rotate the vector. For most physics problems, this distance is measured in meters. In the torque equation, this distance is represented by "r" for radius or radial vector. Work out the amount of force being applied. In most torque problems, this value will also be given to you. The amount of force is measured in Newtons and will be applied in a particular direction. However, rather than being perpendicular to the radial vector, the force is applied at an angle, giving you a radial vector. If you're not provided with the amount of force, you would multiply mass times acceleration to find the force, which means you would need to be given those values. You might also be given the torque and told to solve for the force. In the torque equation, force is represented by "F." Measure the angle made by the force vector and the radial vector. The angle you measure is the one to the right of the force vector. If the measurement isn't provided for you, use a compass to measure the angle. If the force is being applied to the end of the radial vector, extend the radial vector out in a straight line to get your angle. In the torque equation, this angle is represented by the Greek letter theta, "θ." You'll typically see it referred to as "angle θ" or "angle theta." Use your calculator to find the sine of the angle θ. In the torque equation, you multiply the distance of the radial vector and the amount of force with the sine of the angle you just measured. Put the angle measurement into your calculator, then press the "sin" button to get the sine of the angle. If you were determining the sine of the angle by hand, you would need the measurements for the opposite side and the hypotenuse side of a right triangle. Since most torque problems don't involve making exact measurements, however, you shouldn't have to worry about this. Multiply the distance, force, and sine to find the torque. The full formula for torque when you have angled force is τ = r × F × s i n θ {\displaystyle \tau =r\times F\times sin\theta }. The result is expressed in newton-meters (N∙m). For example, suppose you have a radial vector 10 meters long. You're told that 20 Newtons of force is being applied to that radial vector at a 70° angle. You would find that the torque is 188 N∙m: τ = 10 × 20 × s i n 70 ∘ = 10 × 20 × 0.94 = 188 {\displaystyle \tau =10\times 20\times sin70^{\circ }=10\times 20\times 0.94=188} Find the moment of inertia. The amount of torque required to move an object with angular acceleration depends on the distribution of the object's mass, or its moment of inertia , expressed in kg∙m. When the moment of inertia isn't provided, you can also look it up online for common objects. For example, suppose you're trying to figure out the magnitude of torque on a solid disc. The moment of inertia for a solid disc is 1 2 M R 2 {\displaystyle {\frac {1}{2}}MR^{2}}. The "M" in this equation stands for the mass of the disc, while the "R" stands for the radius. If you know that the mass of the disc is 5 kg and the radius 2 meters, you can determine that the moment of inertia is 10 kg∙m : 1 2 ( 5 × 2 2 ) = 1 2 ( 5 × 4 ) = 1 2 ( 20 ) = 10 {\displaystyle {\frac {1}{2}}(5\times 2^{2})={\frac {1}{2}}(5\times 4)={\frac {1}{2}}(20)=10} Determine the angular acceleration. If you're trying to find torque, the angular acceleration will typically be given to you. This is the amount, in radians/s , that the object's velocity is changing as it rotates. Remember that the angular acceleration can be zero if the object is moving at a constant speed and is neither speeding up nor slowing down. Multiply the moment of inertia by the angular acceleration to find the torque. The full formula for torque using the moment of inertia and the angular acceleration is τ = I α {\displaystyle \tau =\mathrm {I} \alpha } , where "τ" stands for torque, "I" stands for the moment of inertia, and "α" stands for the angular acceleration. If you're trying to find torque, simply multiply the moment of inertia and the angular acceleration to get your result. As with other equations, if you're trying to find one of the other values, you can re-order the equation using common algebraic principles. For example, suppose you know that the moment of inertia for an object is 10 kg∙m. You're also told that the torque is 20 N∙m, but you need to find out the angular acceleration. Since you know that τ = I α {\displaystyle \tau =\mathrm {I} \alpha } , you also know that α = τ I {\displaystyle \alpha ={\frac {\tau }{\mathrm {I} }}}. When you put in the variables you know, you'll find that the angular acceleration for the object is 2 radians/s : α = 20 10 = 2 {\displaystyle \alpha ={\frac {20}{10}}=2}
Find the length of the moment arm. Work out the force being applied perpendicular to the moment arm. Multiply the force times the distance to find the torque. Show the direction of the force with positive or negative torque. Total individual torques around a given axis to find the net torque (Στ). Start with the distance of the radial vector. Work out the amount of force being applied. Measure the angle made by the force vector and the radial vector. Use your calculator to find the sine of the angle θ. Multiply the distance, force, and sine to find the torque. Find the moment of inertia. Determine the angular acceleration. Multiply the moment of inertia by the angular acceleration to find the torque.
https://www.wikihow.com/Dress-in-a-Sari
How to Dress in a Sari
To dress in a sari, have your top, petticoat, and shoes on before you start. To wear the sari Nivi style, tuck the top corner into your petticoat at your left hip. Wrap it around your back, to your right hip, and in front of your navel. Repeat this wrapping motion until the sari reaches your navel again and make sure it's nicely tucked into your petticoat. Pleat the decorated end of the sari, using your fingers to space out the pleats. Drape the pleated section over your left shoulder and pull the skirt taut at the back. Pin all of the pleats in place and use more pins to make the sari feel secure.
Start with having the right clothing on. You'll want to have your shirt or top on (such as a choli), your petticoat (sometimes called an inskirt) on and tied snug, and your shoes on before you start wrapping. The top worn with a saree is typically known as blouse (choli). While not necessarily required, safety pins make all sari wrapping much easier and better looking. Wrap and tuck the starting end. Hold the sari so that the shorter distance goes from your waist to the floor and the long end can be wrapped around. Then, start at one end and tuck the corner of the fabric into your petticoat at your left hip, wrap it around behind you, over your right hip, past your navel, and around again until it reaches your navel once more. Continue to tuck it into your petticoat as you go around like this. Ensure sari is not too high. Ideally, your feet should not be visible from under the sari hem. You can use a safety pin to pin it into place at your waist right now, but the petticoat should be secure enough to hold it in place. Pleat the other end. Switch to the other, more decorated end of the sari (called the pallu). You'll want to make the pleats that go over your shoulder. Do this by using your fingers span to space the pleats, and fold them across the short end of the sari. You can use a flat hair clip to keep the pleats in place until you're done with your look. Just don't forget to remove it later! Drape and secure the pleated end. Reach the pleated section around behind you and drape the pleated end from the right hip and then over your left shoulder. Adjust it to the length you want and then pin it to the shoulder strap of your choli or top. Cover and tuck the hip. Pulling the fabric from the top left of the skirt until it is taut at the back, drape it diagonally so that it covers your exposed love handle (or place where a love handle would be) and then tuck the fabric into the waistband at the navel. Pleat the remainder of the fabric. Adjust the fabric so that you have a loop in front of you of the fabric that is making up the waistline. Pleat this remaining fabric to reduce the size of the loop until it fits your waist. You do not need to pleat until it is very tight; a little loose fabric is desirable. Tuck and pin the pleats. Pin the front skirt pleats together at the top, adjust them to match the length of the front of the skirt, and then tuck them into the waistband. Pin it in place as necessary. You can pin your sari in more places if you want to make it more secure. A pin at the armpit on the right can help make sure it stays draped over your right breast, for example. Start with having the right clothing on. You'll want to have your shirt or top on (such as a choli), your petticoat (sometimes called an inskirt) on and tied snug, and your shoes on before you start wrapping. While not necessarily required, safety pins make all sari wrapping much easier and better looking. Wrap and tuck the starting end. Hold the sari so that the shorter distance goes from your waist to the floor and the long end can be wrapped around. Then, start at one end and tuck the corner of the fabric into your petticoat at your left hip, wrap it around behind you, over your right hip, past your navel, and around again until it reaches your navel once more. Continue to tuck it into your petticoat as you go around like this. You can use a safety pin to pin it into place at your waist right now, but the petticoat should be secure enough to hold it in place. Create the front pleats. With the fabric at your navel, make six-seven pleats. Adjust the pleats to face to the right side and then tuck in the pleats. Tuck any fabric necessary to get a clean look on the right hip. Pleat the other end. Switch to the other, more decorated end of the sari (called the pallu). You'll want to make the pleats that go over your shoulder. Do this by using your fingers span to space the pleats, and fold them across the short end of the sari. You can use a flat hair clip to keep the pleats in place until you're done with your look. Just don't forget to remove it later! Place the shoulder pleats. Wrap the pallu end around behind you and then drape it over the right shoulder. It should reach down to around the top of your leg, but you can adjust it to whatever suits you. Pin the pallu in place at the shoulder to secure it. Shift the pleats. Take the left side of the pleats and draw them over to your left hip. Pin the corner in place there. Adjust and pin any fabric as necessary. Adjust any fabric that remains until it looks tidy and ready to go. You can pin it in more places if you want the style to be more secure. Start with having the right clothing on. With this style, you'll mix Indian and Western styles by wearing leggings or jeggings instead of a petticoat, and a clubbing style or other fancy top instead of a choli. Again, be sure to have your shoes on before you start wrapping. Make a pleated section. Begin pleating down the long side of the sari until you have a decent sized section of pleats. Tuck in the pleated section. Tuck the pleated section into the waistband, centered below your navel, such that the rest of the sari is coming from the innermost pleat and to the left. Then tuck along the waist further, until it reaches your spine or just to your right side. Pleat the other end. Switch to and pleat the other end of the sari as normal, across the short side. Wrap the shoulder section. Pass the shoulder section behind you and then wrap it so that it passes from your right hip and then over your left shoulder. Adjust the fabric. Adjust the hang of the sari so that a deep U is created at the right hip and the shoulder pleats hang at a level that pleases you. Pin it in place as needed. Pin it at your shoulder to keep the sari in place, as well as anywhere else you need to in order to get the drape you want. Enjoy your new sari style!
Start with having the right clothing on. Wrap and tuck the starting end. Pleat the other end. Drape and secure the pleated end. Cover and tuck the hip. Pleat the remainder of the fabric. Tuck and pin the pleats. Pin it in place as necessary. Start with having the right clothing on. Wrap and tuck the starting end. Create the front pleats. Pleat the other end. Place the shoulder pleats. Shift the pleats. Adjust and pin any fabric as necessary. Start with having the right clothing on. Make a pleated section. Tuck in the pleated section. Pleat the other end. Wrap the shoulder section. Adjust the fabric. Pin it in place as needed.
https://www.wikihow.com/Take-a-Himalayan-Salt-Bath
How to Take a Himalayan Salt Bath
Taking a Himalayan salt bath can be relaxing and may help lower your blood pressure and exfoliate your skin. You don't need your bath water to be very hot. Just above body temperature is ideal. You'll need about 2 ½ pounds of Himalayan salt for a standard bathtub. You can also add a few drops of your favorite essential oil for an extra fragrance. While Himalayan salt baths can be relaxing, they can also dehydrate you easily, so have a glass of water nearby while you soak. Stay in the tub for 20-30 minutes to get the most from your bath. When you get out, take it slowly and hold onto something in case you feel dizzy or lightheaded, since Himalayan salt baths can sometimes have that effect on people.
Take a shower. Wash thoroughly before you attempt to take a detox salt bath. You want to wash away any additives like perfume, soap residue, or conditioner that could throw off the composition of your bath. Make sure the tub gets a good rinse too after you've finished using any toiletries. Fill your tub with water. The water should be at or just above body temperature. Himalayan salt baths are not meant to be taken in very hot water. If you have a thermometer, aim for about 97 degrees Fahrenheit (37 degrees Celsius). Add the salt while the tub is filling with water. As the water is running, add enough Himalayan salt to create a 1% solution. This means adding about 2.5 pounds (a little over 1 kilogram) to a standard-sized tub, which holds 27-32 gallons (102-121 liters) of water. Himalayan salts can be purchased online, at health stores, or at some organic grocery stores. Allow the salts to dissolve. A fine grain salt should dissolve quickly, but if your salts are chunkier this may take more time. If you're concerned that your salts will take too long to dissolve, place them in a large bowl the night before and cover them with warm water. The next day, pour the entire contents of the bowl into the tub as it's filling. Add essential oils if you want them. Essential oils can increase your level of relaxation or rejuvenation in the bath. If you choose to use one, such as eucalyptus oil or lavender oil, add about 3 drops as the tub is filling with water. Do not add more than this, since it could irritate your skin. Ask your doctor if a Himalayan salt bath is safe for you. Salt baths can place a lot of pressure on your circulatory system, so if you have poor heart circulation, heart disease, diabetes, or are pregnant, always check with your doctor first to be sure that you can safely take a salt bath. Keep a glass of water nearby. You can quickly become dehydrated while taking a salt bath. Make sure you have a glass or water bottle near the edge of the tub to sip from while you soak. Soak for about 20-30 minutes. Soaking in a salt bath can be intense for your circulatory system and your muscles, so spend no more than 30 minutes in the tub. Even after that short amount of time in the salt water, you will likely feel weak when you get out of the bath. Stand up carefully. When you're done, drain the tub and rise slowly. Hold onto something sturdy, like the edge of the sink, as you attempt to climb out. If you begin to feel dizzy, sit down immediately and sip some more water until you feel ready to stand again. Rest while you air dry. The salt water is safe to leave on your skin, so no need to rinse yourself off or even wipe your whole body down with a towel. Use this drying time to rest for at least 30 minutes, since you will need some time to recover from the detox. It's best to take this bath right before bed so that you won't be doing any more physical activity for the day. Limit salt baths to 1-3 times per week. Since Himalayan salt baths can be so intense, you should not be taking them every day. Start out by taking one a week, and then build up to two or three if you really like them.
Take a shower. Fill your tub with water. Add the salt while the tub is filling with water. Allow the salts to dissolve. Add essential oils if you want them. Ask your doctor if a Himalayan salt bath is safe for you. Keep a glass of water nearby. Soak for about 20-30 minutes. Stand up carefully. Rest while you air dry. Limit salt baths to 1-3 times per week.
https://www.wikihow.com/Calculate-Power-Factor-Correction
How to Calculate Power Factor Correction
To calculate Power Factor correction, first use the Pythagorean Theorem to find the Impedance from the Real Power and the Reactive Power. The Impedance is the hypotenuse of the triangle, the adjacent side is the True Power, and the opposite side is the Reactive Power. Use a formula like the Tangent Law to find the Phase Angle, then calculate the total Current in Amps by dividing the Voltage by the Impedance. Calculate the apparent power, or Voltage Squared divided by Impedance, as well as True Power, by multiplying Current squared by the resistance in your circuit. The Power Factor is Watts divided by Volt-Amps.
Calculate impedance. (Pretend as if impedance was in the same place as apparent power in the picture above). So to find impedance you need to use the Pythagorean Theorem c² = √ (a² + b²). Therefore Impedance Total (represented as “Z”) is equal to Real Power squared plus Reactive power squared and then take the square root of the answer. ( Z = √(60² + 60²) ). So if you enter that into your scientific calculator you will receive an answer of 84.85Ω. ( Z = 84.85Ω ). Find your phase angle. So you now have your hypotenuse which is your impedance. You also have your adjacent side which is your true power and you have your opposite side which is your reactive power. So to find the angle you can use any the laws stated earlier. For example we use the Tangent Law which is the opposite side divided by the adjacent side (Reactive/True). You should have an equation that looks like this: (60/60 = 1) Take the inverse of the tangent and acquire your Phase Angle. The inverse tangent is a button on your calculator. So you now take the inverse tangent of the equation in the previous step and this will give you your phase angle. Your equation should look something like this: tan ‾ ¹ (1) = Phase Angle. So your answer should be 45°. Calculate your total Current (Amps). Your current is in the units of amps also represented as an “A”. The formula used for calculating current is Voltage divided by Impedance which numerically looks like this: 120V/84.85Ω. You should now have an answer around 1.414A. ( 120V/84.85Ω = 1.414A ). You must now calculate your apparent power which is represented as “S”. To calculate apparent power you do not need to use the Pythagorean Theorem because your hypotenuse was considered your impedance. Remembering that apparent power is in the units of Volt-Amps we can calculate apparent power using the formula: Voltage squared divided by your total impedance. Your equation should look like this: 120V²/84.85Ω. You should now get an answer of 169.71VA. ( 120²/84.85 = 169.71 ) You must now calculate your true power which is represented as “P”. To calculate true power you must have found current which you did in step number four. True power which is in the units of a Watt is calculated by multiplying your current squared (1.141²) by the resistance (60Ω) in your circuit. You should get an answer of 78.11 watts. Your equation should look like this: 1.414² x 60 = 119.96 Calculate your Power Factor! To calculate your power factor you need the following information: Watts and Volt-Amps. You have calculated this information in the previous steps. Your wattage is equal to 78.11W and your Volt-Amps are equal to 169.71VA. The formula for your power factor, also represented as Pf, is Watts divided by Volt-Amps. You should have an equation that looks something like this: 78.11/169.71 = 0.46 This can also be expressed as a percentage therefore you multiply 0.46 by 100 giving you a power factor of 46%.
Calculate impedance. Therefore Impedance Total (represented as “Z”) is equal to Real Power squared plus Reactive power squared and then take the square root of the answer. Find your phase angle. Take the inverse of the tangent and acquire your Phase Angle. Calculate your total Current (Amps). You must now calculate your apparent power which is represented as “S”. You must now calculate your true power which is represented as “P”. Calculate your Power Factor!
https://www.wikihow.com/Set-Up-a-Commercial-Kitchen
How to Set Up a Commercial Kitchen
To set up your commercial kitchen, purchase and install a walk-in fridge for most of your food, and get some storage shelves for other dry goods. For cooking equipment, purchase and install a broiler, a gas range and oven, or an industrial salamander. If you're short on cash, you can try leasing this equipment instead. Don't forget to install a proper H-VAC ventilation system for your new kitchen to prevent heat buildup or fire.
Purchase and install a walk-in cooling unit. A walk-in cooling unit is a cold storage room designed to maintain the standard refrigeration temperature of 28 to 40 degrees (-2 to 4 ℃). Although some small food service operations may not require a walk-in cooler, the majority of commercial operations will. Walk-in coolers can be custom built to fit any location. Speak to several HVAC contractors and refrigeration specialists to get the best bid. Purchase an industrial freezer. Commercial kitchen operations typically require freezer space. Commercial freezer units are usually categorized by the number of doors. Purchase a single, double or triple-door freezer, depending on the size and scope of your food service operation. Purchase a refrigerated line station and supplemental refrigeration units. Adequate refrigeration is a necessity in the commercial kitchen. Food service workers need to keep prepared foods cool prior to preparation and service. A refrigerated line station will be required for the majority of commercial operations. Buy storage shelves for perishable and nonperishable foods, dry storage and equipment storage. Purchase and install an industrial range hood and H-VAC ventilation system. Any commercial operation that prepares food over an open flame, such as a stove top or a broiler, is required to have a range-hood and ventilation system installed. The range hood sits over the top of stove-tops and broilers, and uses fans to pull carcinogenic materials and heat through carbon filters up and out of the building. A range hood can be custom built to fit any location. Purchase or lease a broiler, a gas range and oven, and an industrial salamander. A broiler or an open flame grill is primarily used to cook grilled meats. Commercial broiling units come in many sizes. Lease or purchase a combination gas range and oven unit. These units, which are standard equipment in the majority of commercial food service operations, are available in multiple sizes and are typically categorized by the number of burners. Consider purchasing or leasing a salamander. A salamander typically sits over the range burners and is primarily used to keep plated foods hot prior to service. Purchase optional equipment depending on the type and the size of the food service operation. Some commercial kitchens will need to purchase or lease additional items, such as a deep fat fryer, a flat grill or a convection oven. Purchase prep tables and approved cutting surfaces for food preparation. Stainless steel prep tables come in several sizes, and are essential in the commercial kitchen. Plastic cutting boards can be cut to fit any size table. Purchase specialty equipment as needed. Specialty equipment may include meat slicers, food processors or industrial-size mixers. Install a sprinkler system and fire extinguishers as required by local fire department regulations. Check with local industrial fire suppression system installers for price quotes. Install a triple-sink wash station and commercial dish washing unit. Municipal health department authorities typically require a commercial kitchen to have triple-sink wash station and commercial dish washing unit installed.
Purchase and install a walk-in cooling unit. Purchase an industrial freezer. Purchase a refrigerated line station and supplemental refrigeration units. Buy storage shelves for perishable and nonperishable foods, dry storage and equipment storage. Purchase and install an industrial range hood and H-VAC ventilation system. Purchase or lease a broiler, a gas range and oven, and an industrial salamander. Purchase optional equipment depending on the type and the size of the food service operation. Purchase prep tables and approved cutting surfaces for food preparation. Purchase specialty equipment as needed. Install a sprinkler system and fire extinguishers as required by local fire department regulations. Install a triple-sink wash station and commercial dish washing unit.
https://www.wikihow.com/Ship-Perishable-Food
How to Ship Perishable Food
To ship perishable food, start by putting the food in sealed containers and packing them in an insulated box inside a liner bag. Then, add frozen ice packs to the package to keep items cold. Alternatively, you can use dry ice, but make sure to check with your mail carrier for their rules about using dry ice, such as the amount you can use and how to label the box. Once the box is packed, close the liner bag with a rubber band and tape up the box. Next, mark the package with, “Perishable” and attach the mailing label before sending it off with your carrier.
Ensure you can send the item. Check with your carrier first about fragile, potentially hazardous, and international shipments. The destination country you're shipping to may have restrictions you should know about so that your package is accepted. Check the Individual Country Listings of the International Mail Manual for rules regarding the country you're sending to. Things that can decompose easily or can't be reasonably expected to arrive at their destination without spoiling can't be mailed internationally. For example, fresh vegetables, fruit, meat and other items. Dry ice cannot be sent via international mail. You may be able to use a carrier who offers temperature controlled freight services, depending on what your sending. Consult with carriers about your individual situation. Be informed about homemade canned or jarred foods. If you are sending homemade canned or jarred foods, you should check with the National Center for Home Food Preservation for information on which foods are considered unsafe for canning and are not recommended as gifts. Home-processed cheese and meat shouldn't be mailed, as the moisture and acidity are unknown and can cause harmful bacteria. Examples of foods that are considered unsafe for canned gifts include herbs or vegetables in oil, breads or cakes, homemade chocolate or fudge sauce, and pumpkin butter. Use only jars and lids that are recommended for canning, and only recipes tested for processing by reliable sources. Tell the recipient first. If possible, notify the recipient first and schedule a delivery date that works for both of you. If the item is food that should arrive cold, tell them to ensure that it is still refrigerator cold when they open the package. Notify the recipient that they should refrigerate or freeze the food immediately. Your carrier is responsible to deliver the perishable items on time, but the customer is responsible for someone being available to receive the package. If the item is food that should arrive cold, tell the recipient not to eat or even taste it if the following condition isn't met: the food should be delivered partially or fully frozen, or at least refrigerator cold. If unsure, the recipient can use a food thermometer to check: it should not be above 40°F (4.4°C). Consider how to send the parcel. The FDA recommends that you ship perishable items using overnight delivery. Avoid sending at the end of the week. Your perishable items will probably sit in a shipping facility over the weekend. Send items as early in the week as possible. Consider where the recipient is and whether they can receive food and refrigerate it on acceptance. Will their residence or place of work be better for this? If you're sending items to an office, make sure that it will arrive on a weekday. Also ensure that the office has refrigerator space for keeping the items cold. Try to avoid items that require refrigeration. If you're shipping perishable items, try if possible to opt for items that don't need to be kept cold. It is a lot less hassle and will require less packaging and handling considerations. For example, seasoning packets, hardy candy, dried fruits, and canned nuts don't require refrigeration. Homemade sweets like praline, toffee and sugar cookies don't need refrigerated packaging because their sugar content wards off bacteria. Pack cold food. Don't pack food while it's still hot, or it will form condensation which encourages mold growth and may cause the food to become soggy. Cool the food first until it is refrigerator cold or frozen solid. Then pack it in sealed plastic bags. If the food needs to stay cool or cold, include a source of cold, such as dry ice or frozen gel packs. You may want to consult with a packaging expert for your delivery service and ask which method is best for your shipment as well as where to purchase those items. Clearly mark the package “Perishable – Keep Refrigerated” on the outside. The marking should be on the address side of the mailpiece. Add gel ice packs. Choose gel ice packs for products that should be cooled at 32° F (0° C) and 60° F (16° C). Freeze them according to the manufacturer's instructions. Put perishable food in sealed plastic bags. Separate the gel packs from the perishable items using cardboard. Alternatively, you can look for a carrier with a cold shipping program. For example, FedEx offers cold shipping for healthcare products like medications and breast milk. You can use other kinds of ice packs, but disposable ice packs are the most economic choice. Test the number and size of ice packs your product needs inside the specific container you select. Add dry ice. Use dry ice for frozen items. Be sure it's legal to send the frozen packaging materials in your area. Dry ice maintains its coldness longer than gel packs, but requires extra safety measures. Wear gloves and goggles when handling it so that you don't burn yourself. Don't let dry ice come in contact with food. Put food in a sealed plastic bag to protect it from dry ice. Separate dry ice from your perishable items using cardboard. Don't wrap dry ice. Warn the recipient if the packaging contains dry ice. Check with your shipping carrier first and find out the allowable amount of dry ice. If you use dry ice, you need to label the address side of the box that it contains dry ice. You will also need to comply with the rules of your carrier ( UPS , FedEx , or USPS ). Add liner. Pack the perishable item, cardboard, and coolant in a two-millimeter liner bag. Secure the bag closed with a rubber band. Now the items are ready to be placed in an insulated container. You can purchasing shipping liner bags online or at local office supply stores. Find a suitable container. The items should be placed inside a sturdy, strong box or an insulated cooler. Corrugated cardboard works well. Other containers you may consider are Styrofoam boxes inside of cardboard boxes, insulated liners with bubble wrap, or insulated pads. The box should have a Mullen Test of 200 pounds or more to use it for shipping perishable items. A Mullen Test measures how much weight boxes can handle without bursting. For items that need to remain cold, use insulated foam containers with walls a minimum of one and a half inches thick. Then place the foam container inside a sturdy container. Include instructions. Consider including instructions for the recipient inside the package. Provide information about storage and preparation. This is optional but helpful, especially if you're sending perishable food to customers who may be unsure how to prepare or handle it. Label any food inside the box as well as externally. For food items, make it clear what ingredients are included for the sake of those with allergies or dietary restrictions. If the item should arrive cold, include instructions about ensuring refrigerator coldness (not over 40°F/4.4°C) when they open the package. Notify the recipient that they should refrigerate or freeze the food immediately, and specify that they should not eat or even taste it if it doesn't arrive cold. Pack baked goods. Maintain the freshness of baked goods during transit by wrapping them. Use foil or plastic to wrap. Cookies and bars need individual wrapping. Pack in layers using wax paper to separate the layers. Place items stacked or in a tin. Hard cookies ship better than soft cookies, which can break and crumble during mailing. Provide the right internal packaging. Provide at least two inches of cushion around glass and other fragile items. Make sure that bottles and jars are sealed well. Don't choose newspaper as your packing material, as it doesn't have cushioning. Add any buffering packing materials needed. Use items such as plastic containers and Styrofoam peanuts. Wrap items well in plastic wrap or foil and pack them snugly. For chilled or frozen foods, opt for plastic foam peanuts, bubble wrap, bagged foam or Instapak®. Seal up the box. Use plenty of tape to keep the box from opening up during transportation. Avoid duct tape and masking tape; they can detach in cold weather and melt under hot conditions. Choose a tape meant for shipping. Label the box. Address the box with a complete mailing address and phone number. Clearly mark the package “Perishable” on the outside. The marking would be on the address side of the mailpiece. Also include your name and return address. If required, contents should be identified on the address side of the mail. You can use a mailer endorsement if you want to request return, forwarding, or address correction for items that are undeliverable to the address specified. Add the instructions “Fragile, handle with care” on the address side of the mailing piece. If the contents are food, add “Food contents.”
Ensure you can send the item. Be informed about homemade canned or jarred foods. Tell the recipient first. Consider how to send the parcel. Try to avoid items that require refrigeration. Pack cold food. Add gel ice packs. Add dry ice. Add liner. Find a suitable container. Include instructions. Pack baked goods. Provide the right internal packaging. Seal up the box. Label the box.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Blackberry-Cobbler
How to Make a Blackberry Cobbler
To make a simple blackberry cobbler, start by mixing the flour and sugar together. Next, whisk in the milk, followed by melted butter. Then, pour your batter into a lightly buttered baking dish and sprinkle the top with blackberries, followed by ¼ cup of sugar. Finally, bake your cobbler for 1 hour at 350 degrees F and let it cool before serving.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly butter a 8 by 8-inch (20.32 by 20.32-centimeter) baking dish. Mix the flour and 1 cup (225 grams) of sugar in a mixing bowl. Save the remaining ¼ cup (55 grams) of sugar for later. Whisk in the milk, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl. Whole milk would be best, but if you don't have any whole milk on hand, you can use 2% or non-fat instead. Stir in the melted butter. If you have not yet done so, melt the butter either in the microwave or in a small saucepan over the stove. Pour the melted butter into the flour mixture, then give it a brisk stir with a whisk. For a richer dessert, use 1 stick (½ cup/115 grams) of melted butter. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Use a rubber spatula to scrape any excess batter from the bottom and sides of the bowl, and into the baking dish. Add the blackberries on top of the batter. You can use frozen blackberries if you don't have any fresh ones, but be sure to let them thaw out first. Sprinkle the blackberries evenly across the top of the batter; don't worry if some of them sink in. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup (55 grams) of sugar on top. This will help give the cobbler some texture. Make sure that you sprinkle the sugar evenly across the top of the batter. Bake the cobbler for 1 hour. The cobbler is ready when the batter turns golden and the blackberries bubbly. For added texture, sprinkle 1 teaspoon to 2 tablespoons of sugar on top of the cobbler during the final 10 minutes of baking. Let the cobbler cool before serving it. You can serve it as is, or you can add some whipped cream or vanilla ice cream. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. You will be eventually baking the cobbler in a cast iron skillet. If you do not own a cast iron skillet, you can bake it in a 2-quart (2-liter) baking dish instead. In this case, lightly grease your baking dish, then set it aside. Mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Sift 1¼ cups (125 grams) of all-purpose flour into a mixing bowl, then add ¼ to ⅓ cups (55 to 75 grams) white sugar, 2 teaspoons baking powder, ¼ to ½ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, and ¼ teaspoon salt. Stir everything together until evenly combined. How much sugar you add depends on your personal preferences. If you like your cobblers sweet, use more sugar. If you like them tart, use less sugar. How much ground cinnamon you use is up to you. Cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. You can do this using a pastry blender or two crisscrossing knives. You can also cut the butter into cubes, add it to the flour mixture, then pulse everything for a few seconds in a food processor. Make sure that the butter is cold, or the mixture won't turn into "crumbs." Stir ½ cup (120 milliliters) of boiling water into the flour mixture, then add ½ to 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Boil some water in a kettle, measure out ½ cup (120 milliliters), then pour it into the mixing bowl. Stir everything together with a rubber spatula until the flour mixture becomes moist and turns into a dough. Set the mixing bowl aside when you are done. How much vanilla extract you add is up to you. Mix together the cornstarch and water. Put 2 tablespoons (15 grams) of cornstarch into a separate mixing bowl, then stir in ¼ cup (60 milliliters) of cold water. Keep stirring until the cornstarch has dissolved. This will help thicken the juices released by the blackberries. No cornstarch? Try flour instead! Add in the sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and blackberries, then stir to combine. Pour ⅔ cup (150 grams) of white sugar into the cornstarch and water mixture. Next, add ¼ teaspoon of ground cinnamon, 1 tablespoon (15 milliliters) of lemon juice, and 4 cups (400 grams) of fresh blackberries. Gently stir everything together with a rubber spatula. For best results, use freshly-squeezed lemon juice. For a twist, use 1 teaspoon of lemon zest. For a fruitier cobbler, use 6 cups (600 grams) of blackberries instead. Transfer the blackberry mixture into a cast iron skillet, then bring to a boil over medium heat. Stir the mixture often as it heats up. Once it comes to a boil, take it off the burner. If you don't have a cast iron skillet, you can bring the mixture to a boil in a saucepan, then pour it into a lightly-greased, 2-quart (2-liter) baking dish. Drop the dough in little clumps onto the blackberries using a spoon. The dough won't completely cover the blackberries, but try to spread the clumps out as evenly as you can nonetheless. Place the skillet onto your foil-lined baking sheet, then bake it for 25 minutes. If you are using a baking dish, simply place the dish into the oven. The cobbler is ready when the dough turns golden-brown and the blackberry mixture starts to bubble. Another way to test for doneness is to stick a toothpick into one of the dough clumps; if it comes out clean, your cobbler is ready! Allow the cobbler to cool before you serve it. It tastes great at room temperature or chilled. You can serve it as is, or garnish it further with some whipped cream or vanilla ice cream! Finished.
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and lightly butter a 8 by 8-inch (20.32 by 20.32-centimeter) baking dish. Mix the flour and 1 cup (225 grams) of sugar in a mixing bowl. Whisk in the milk, making sure to scrape the bottom and sides of the bowl. Stir in the melted butter. Pour the batter into the prepared baking dish. Add the blackberries on top of the batter. Sprinkle the remaining ¼ cup (55 grams) of sugar on top. Bake the cobbler for 1 hour. Let the cobbler cool before serving it. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and line a baking sheet with aluminum foil. Mix together the flour, sugar, baking powder, ground cinnamon, and salt. Cut the butter into the flour mixture until it resembles coarse crumbs. Stir ½ cup (120 milliliters) of boiling water into the flour mixture, then add ½ to 1 teaspoon of vanilla extract. Mix together the cornstarch and water. Add in the sugar, lemon juice, ground cinnamon, and blackberries, then stir to combine. Transfer the blackberry mixture into a cast iron skillet, then bring to a boil over medium heat. Drop the dough in little clumps onto the blackberries using a spoon. Place the skillet onto your foil-lined baking sheet, then bake it for 25 minutes. Allow the cobbler to cool before you serve it. Finished.
https://www.wikihow.com/Groom-Pugs
How to Groom Pugs
To groom a pug, inspect its wrinkles daily for debris or signs of irritation. Then, wipe and dry its folds using a canine face wipe or blend of non-rinsing shampoo and water, in order to reduce your pug's chances of infection. In addition to cleaning your pug's folds, be sure to trim its nails every two weeks and brush it weekly, since pugs are heavy shedders. You could also try expanding your grooming routine by introducing regular toothbrushing, removing wax and dirt from your pug's ears with a vet-approved cleansing solution, and wiping its eyes with a moistened cotton ball a couple of times daily.
Inspect your pug’s wrinkles daily. Keep the folds of skin on your pug's face clean of debris and dry to avoid the risk of infection and prevent smells. Inspect the folds each day to make sure there is no debris or irritation present. Use your fingers to gently separate each fold around your dog's eyes, nose, and mouth, inspecting each one thoroughly. Clean each fold. Clean each wrinkle as you go, even if there is no debris present. Use a canine face or eye wipe to gently wipe the skin in between each fold. Gently swipe the wipe along the fold in one motion. Continue this process until the wipe comes out clean with no dirt or debris on it. Canine wipes are the best cleanser to use on your dog's wrinkles, but you can also use a soft wash cloth, cotton balls, or cotton swabs to clean the folds. If you are using one of these options, moisten the object with a 50/50 mixture of high-quality rinse-free canine shampoo and water first. If you choose to clean your pug's wrinkles with a shampoo-water mix, avoid using regular soap or shampoo that requires rinsing. Soaps can dry out and irritate your dog's skin if not rinsed off completely. Clean your dog's wrinkles at least once a day. Doing so several times a day—particularly after your dog eats—is even better for keeping the folds clean. Keep an eye on any areas you notice are infected or have a strong odor. If these areas do not improve after a day or 2, make an appointment with your vet. Dry each fold. Once you are satisfied that you have gotten all of the dirt and debris out of your dog's folds, it's time to dry them. Leaving moisture in the folds can increase the risk of infection. Run a soft, clean, thin washcloth along the fold until you've removed all moisture from the area. Brush your pug weekly. Pugs are heavy shedders, despite their short hair. Brushing your pug on a regular basis will help cut down on its shedding and minimize the amount of hair in your home. Brush your dog with a rubber brush or one with stainless steel bristles at least once a week. Brush your pug in the direction its hair grows without applying much extra pressure on the brush. If your pug is still shedding quite a bit with weekly brushings, try brushing it every day. Brushing your pug both before and after you bathe it will also help cut down on shedding. Bathing will loosen up the hairs in your dog's coat, so brushing it after its bath will help catch many of these loose hairs. Trim your Pug’s nails. Pugs' nails grow extremely fast. Trim your dog's nails every 2 weeks to make sure they do not get too long. To do so, use a small nail clipper or nail grinder and clip only the curved part of the nail. Watch out for the quick, which is the vein running through your dog's foot. Be careful not to cut this vein when you are clipping your dog's nails. A good time to cut your dog's nails is when they are in a deep sleep at night. Even if your pug wakes up while you are trimming its nails, it will probably be too drowsy to put up a struggle. If you accidentally clip the quick while trimming your dog's nails, apply some styptic powder to the cut to help stop the bleeding and prevent infection. Depending on the types of surfaces your dog encounters on a regular basis, you may only need to clip its nails every 3-6 months. Walking on hard outdoor surfaces frequently may help keep the nails filed down. You should still check its nails every few weeks to make sure they're not getting too long, however. Introduce tooth brushing. Taking good care of your pug's teeth is also important. Introduce your pug to tooth brushing early on in its life. Use the following strategy to get your dog used to having its teeth brushed: Use your finger to rub your dog's teeth every day for a week. Do your best to touch all of the teeth. Say the words “teeth” or “brush” while you do this so your dog will begin to associate these key words with getting its teeth brushed. Praise your dog when it sits still for this and offer it a small, healthy treat at the end of each session. For the following week, use a canine finger tooth brush or a small breed toothbrush to go over the teeth. Wet the brush, but don't apply toothpaste. Remember to say the key word while you are doing this. At the end of the week you can start using a toothbrush with toothpaste on it. Brush your pug’s teeth regularly. It is recommended you spend 3-4 minutes brushing your dog's teeth every day. Make sure you cover the front, back, and sides of all teeth. Be sure you're cleaning all the surfaces of the teeth and invest in a quality canine toothpaste, as human toothpastes can be toxic to dogs if they are swallowed. Keep using the key word when you brush your dog's teeth. It might help to set a timer for 3 or 4 minutes while you are brushing so you know you are spending enough time on this. Clean the wax and dirt from its ears. Clean your dog's ears every 1-2 weeks. First, moisten a cotton ball with a vet-approved canine ear cleansing solution. Move the cotton ball around the inside of the ear, making sure to get any wax, dirt, or debris that are present. Don't go too far into the ear, as you do not want to hit your dog's ear drum. Don't moisten the cotton ball with plain water, as this can introduce too much moisture to your pug's ears and increase the risk of infection. Ask your vet to recommend a good antimicrobial ear cleaner. Many canine ear cleansers are also designed to cause the pores in the dog's skin to tighten, preventing moisture and bacteria from entering the tissues of the ear canal. If you notice any pus, excessive liquid wax, or irritated areas in your dog's ears, take it to the vet. These symptoms can indicate an infection of some kind. Clean your pug’s eyes. Because of the shape of a pug's head, its eyes bulge, and therefore are extra susceptible to injury and scratches. Cleaning your dog's eyes properly can help prevent it from developing eye problems. Clean your dog's eyes daily with a baby wipe, moistened cotton ball, or canine eye wipes. Do this several times a day—usually first thing in the morning, after your dog eats, and before bed. Wipe away any crusty build-up with the wipe, being careful not to get any cleaning solution into your dog's eyes. If you notice debris on your dog's eyeball, use the following steps to remove it: Use your fingers to gently push the top and bottom eyelids open. Squeeze 4-5 drops of a sterile canine eye cleaning solution into the cup of the lower lid. Then, let go of your pug and allow him to blink. This should discharge any debris in the eye. Wipe your dog's face with a clean wipe after cleaning out the eye to keep any leftover debris away from its face. Fill your tub with about 3 inches of water. Pugs need to be bathed approximately every 3 weeks. To start, fill your bathtub, laundry tub, or another basin with about 3 inches (7.6 cm) of warm water. Use the inside of your wrist to check the water temperature before you begin, as water that is too hot can irritate your dog's skin. Running water can make pugs somewhat skittish, so fill the tub or basin before putting your dog in it. If the tub or basin you're using is slippery, place a non-slip mat on the bottom of it to keep your pug from sliding around. Wet your pug’s coat. After placing your pug in the bath tub, use a hose attachment or bucket to saturate its coat with water. This will help the shampoo lather more easily. Apply shampoo to your dog’s coat. Once the fur is saturated, apply dog shampoo to your pug's coat and lather well. Use your hands and fingers to gently scrub your dog's skin, making sure to get its belly, legs, genitals, and tail. Use your fingers to work shampoo into the fur on your dog's head and face, making sure to clean inside the folds around its mouth and nose. Be careful not to get shampoo into its eyes, nose, or ears. Use only dog shampoo, as human shampoo can be too harsh for a pug. Wipe your dog’s folds with a washcloth. Take a soft washcloth and gently wipe the folds around your dog's nose and mouth. You may need to lift the top of the fold with your hand in order to access the skin underneath the fold. Rinse well. When you are done lathering the shampoo and scrubbing your dog's skin, rinse the shampoo out well. Shampoo that is left on the skin can be drying, so make sure you get it all out. Use your hands and fingers to work the shampoo down your dog's body and out of its coat. Apply conditioner to your dog’s coat. After rinsing, apply a dog conditioner to your pet's coat. Using shampoo alone can be too drying, so applying conditioner will help keep your dog's skin moisturized and prevent hair breakage. Work the conditioner into your dog's coat, making sure you get it down to the skin. Rinse well. Once the conditioner is worked in, rinse your dog's coat well, using your hands and fingers to massage the skin to help get all of the conditioner out. Dry your dog with a towel. Once all of the shampoo and conditioner is rinsed out of your dog's coat, use an absorbent towel to pat your pug dry. Try to avoid rubbing with the towel, as this can irritate your dog's skin. A pug's coat can hold quite a bit of water, so you may need to go over the coat several times with the towel before all the excess water is removed. Keep a couple towels handy in case you need to switch to a dry towel to get the rest of the water from your pug's coat.
Inspect your pug’s wrinkles daily. Clean each fold. Dry each fold. Brush your pug weekly. Trim your Pug’s nails. Introduce tooth brushing. Brush your pug’s teeth regularly. Clean the wax and dirt from its ears. Clean your pug’s eyes. Fill your tub with about 3 inches of water. Wet your pug’s coat. Apply shampoo to your dog’s coat. Wipe your dog’s folds with a washcloth. Rinse well. Apply conditioner to your dog’s coat. Rinse well. Dry your dog with a towel.
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Ringworm-Naturally
How to Get Rid of Ringworm: Can Natural Remedies Help?
If you need to get rid of ringworm naturally, apply a topical cream containing at least 25% tea tree oil to your rash 3 times a day for up to 4 weeks. This is especially useful for the form of ringworm that causes athlete's foot. If the ringworm is on your scalp, apply grapefruit seed extract to the rash and let it soak in for about 5 minutes, then rinse it out. Repeat this 3-5 times a day for a week. Other natural treatments you can apply to your skin include diluted apple cider vinegar, colloidal silver, or a tincture made of black walnut.
Apply tea tree oil to relieve the infection. Tea tree oil is a natural antibacterial and antifungal that shows some success in treating ringworm. Try applying a 2% oil concentration to the rash twice a day for a week to see if that helps. Cover the rash with a bandage or gauze so the oil doesn't rub off. If the oil doesn't come diluted, then dilute it yourself before using it on your skin. Use a carrier oil like olive or jojoba oil, or water. Add 2 drops of essential oil per teaspoon of carrier for a 2% concentration. Tea tree oil is generally safe and shows few interactions, but it could cause some skin itching or irritation if you're sensitive to it. Stop using it if you experience any negative reactions. Never take it orally. The application procedure may be different on different products. Always follow the instructions on the type you use. Kill the fungus with garlic. Garlic is a proven antifungal treatment that could kill the fungus that causes ringworm. Try dicing up some fresh garlic and pressing it onto the rash. Then cover the area with a bandage to keep the garlic in place. Replace the garlic once per day to see if your rash improves. You could also use garlic extract oil instead of fresh garlic. Dab the oil into the rash once a day and cover it with a bandage. Garlic has a strong smell, so this might not be an ideal treatment if you have to go out. Try a leadwort paste to fight the infection. Leadwort, also known as doctor bush or plumbago, is a medicinal plant from Asia. Natives use it on skin infections, and it shows success in fighting ringworm. Try grinding up the whole plant and rubbing the paste onto the rash. Apply the paste once a day to see if this works. Some recipes recommend adding a bit of salt to the paste to increase its antibacterial properties. Make sure you wash the plant before rubbing it onto your skin. Apply an OTC antifungal cream for 2-4 weeks. These medications are available from pharmacies and have a high success rate for treating ringworm. The product instructions may vary, but most direct you to apply the cream 1-2 times per day for 2-4 weeks. This should kill the fungus and clear the rash. Common antifungal medications include clotrimazole and terbinafine. These come in a few different brands and generic names like Lotrimin. Visit a dermatologist for a prescription cream if the rash doesn't clear. If you've tried treating your ringworm with OTC creams for 2-4 weeks but it doesn't go away, then you probably need a stronger medication. Visit a dermatologist for an exam and to get a prescription-strength cream. Apply this cream according to your dermatologist's directions. The directions for a prescription cream are probably very similar to an OTC cream. Apply it once or twice a day for as long as the dermatologist instructs you to. Let your dermatologist know if you experience any side effects like a rash or itching. They can switch you to a different cream if you're sensitive to one. Take prescription antifungal pills if the rash covers a large area. Some ringworm cases require oral medication instead of creams. Commonly, a dermatologist will prescribe oral medication if the rash is over a large area or in a hard-to-reach spot. Take any medication exactly as your dermatologist instructs you to for the best results. Your dermatologist may also apply oral medication right away if the rash is on your scalp or under your nails. Creams usually won't work for these, so you need a pill instead. You may have to take oral medication for 1-3 months to clear the rash completely. Follow your doctor's directions and take the medication exactly as you're supposed to. If you stop too early, the rash could come back. Clean and dry the area gently every day. Keeping the area clean and dry prevents the rash from spreading and helps it heal faster. Wash the rash daily with gentle soap, then rinse it thoroughly. Pat the rash with a clean towel until it's completely dry. Use a different towel to dry the rest of your body. The fungus could spread to other spots if you wipe the rash and then the rest of your body. Don't use this towel again after you dry the rash. Put it in your dirty laundry bin right after you use it. Wash your hands after touching the infection. The ringworm fungus can stay on your hands and spread to other spots on your body or other people. Whenever you clean or touch the rash, wash your hands right away before touching anything else. Keeping the rash covered with a bandage can prevent you from accidentally touching it. Launder your towels, clothes, and bedding every day. The ringworm fungus can live on clothes and fabrics, so don't reuse anything. When you take off your clothes, use a towel, or sleep in your bed, throw those items in the wash right away. Continue doing this until your rash clears up. Using hot water is best because the heat kills the fungus. Refrain from scratching the rash. Scratching irritates the rash and makes it worse. It can also spread the fungus to other places. Do your best to resist the urge to scratch until the rash heals. If you do accidentally scratch the rash, remember to wash your hands right away. Avoid sharing clothes, towels, or personal items with other people. Ringworm can easily spread to other people, so don't share any personal items. Use your own towels, clothes, and grooming items to contain the fungus. Remember to wash all of your personal items after each use. The fungus could still spread to other parts of your body. Even if you don't have an active rash, using your own personal items is a good idea in general. That way, you can prevent infections from spreading between people.
Apply tea tree oil to relieve the infection. Kill the fungus with garlic. Try a leadwort paste to fight the infection. Apply an OTC antifungal cream for 2-4 weeks. Visit a dermatologist for a prescription cream if the rash doesn't clear. Take prescription antifungal pills if the rash covers a large area. Clean and dry the area gently every day. Wash your hands after touching the infection. Launder your towels, clothes, and bedding every day. Refrain from scratching the rash. Avoid sharing clothes, towels, or personal items with other people.
https://www.wikihow.com/Shrink-a-Bag-of-Chips
How to Shrink a Bag of Chips
If you want to shrink a bag of chips, empty the bag and rinse it out. Dry the bag thoroughly with a paper towel, then flatten it out. Place the bag between 2 sheets of parchment paper and place it on a baking sheet. If you want the bag to be smooth and flat, place a second baking sheet on top of the first, or leave it off if you'd prefer a wrinkled look. Place the bag in a 200°F oven for about 10 minutes, checking on it every 2 minutes or so to make sure the bag isn't being damaged by the heat. After the 10 minutes, carefully remove the tray. The bag should have shrunk by about 25%.
Preheat the oven and gather your kitchen instruments. Shrinking a chip bag requires a few simple kitchen items, including two baking trays, two sheets of parchment paper, and oven mitts. Gather these items while preheating the oven to 200 degrees Fahrenheit. Empty and wash the chip bag you wish to shrink. Get all of the crumbs and other food particles out of the bag. Leaving them in will cause bumps and irregularities in the bag after it shrinks. Dry the bag with a paper towel to help remove leftover particles. Place the chip bag on the baking tray. Lay the chip bag between two sheets of parchment paper. If you want your chip bag to have a flatter, smoother look, place the second baking tray on top of the parchment paper, sandwiching the bag between the trays. For a wrinkled look, leave off the second tray. Cook the bag for ten minutes. Place the tray in the preheated oven and allow to bake for 10 minutes. Check the bag every 2 minutes to gauge its progress and make sure the bag is not being damaged. After the ten minutes are complete, remove the tray and peel the parchment paper apart to reveal your tiny chip bag. Take care when removing the tray and handling the bag. Both will be hot after their baking period. The bags will be small and hard, and generally difficult to shape. The bags become easier to bend if they aren't fully shrunk. A bag will shrink down to approximately 25% percent of its original size depending on whether you cook it for the fully suggested time, or a lower time. Empty and wash the chip bag you wish to shrink. Get all of the crumbs and other food particles out of the bag. Leaving them in will cause bumps and irregularities in the bag after it shrinks. Dry the bag with a paper towel to help remove leftover particles. Note that the aluminum lining the inside of most chip bags will cause sparks in the microwave. If you choose to use the microwave to shrink the bag, watch the bag very carefully. Place the bag in the microwave for 5 seconds. Set the microwave setting to “high” and allow the bag to cook for no more than 5 seconds. Keep your eyes on the bag at all times. The bag will likely spark, but should not ignite provided it does not "cook" for more than a few seconds. If the bag ignites into flames, turn off the microwave! Allow the bags to cool. The chip bags will be very hot to the touch. Leave them in the microwave for 3 to 5 minutes before handling them. You may also use oven gloves or tongs to remove the bag if you wish to cool them elsewhere. Don't try shrinking multiple bags at a time in the microwave. This will increase the amount of time required to shrink each bag, which can lead to a greater risk of the bags igniting into flame. The bags will be small and hard, and generally difficult to shape. The bags become easier to bend if they aren't fully shrunk. A bag will shrink down to approximately 25% percent of its original size depending on whether you cook it for the fully suggested time, or a lower time. Punch a hole in the corner to make a keychain. Use a paper hole puncher to create a small hole in the corner of the bag. Carefully thread a keychain loop through the hole to make a colorful and stylish accessory for your key chain. Staple the top of the bag shut if you're concerned the bag will rip while in your pocket. This also provides some additional heft to the bag. Scissors or an awl can also be used to create a hole for the keychain loop if you don't have a hole puncher handy. Decorate your backpack or purse. Secure the shrunken bag to your backpack or purse with a safety pin. They make a great addition to the decorative buttons and pins that are common on backpacks. Lapel pins and studs can also be used to secure the bag to your backpack. Check your local jeweler for information on the types of backs you can use. Place them in collages or scrapbooks. Use a bit of glue to paste the bags into your scrapbook. Opt for making the bags a bit flatter (using the second baking tray) so that they better fit in the book. You can also cut and modify the bags to create collages according to your liking. Create jewelry with the bags. Punch a hole in the top of matching chip bags and affix them to earring hooks to create a colorful pair of earrings! Or punch 4 holes into each end of a bag that is only half shrunken to create a perfect bangle. Use a few leather cord and jewelry clasps to affix to the bag and create a unique bracelet. The bags will be small and hard, and generally difficult to shape. The bags become easier to bend if they aren't fully shrunk. A bag will shrink down to approximately 25% percent of its original size depending on whether you cook it for the fully suggested time, or a lower time.
Preheat the oven and gather your kitchen instruments. Empty and wash the chip bag you wish to shrink. Place the chip bag on the baking tray. Cook the bag for ten minutes. Empty and wash the chip bag you wish to shrink. Place the bag in the microwave for 5 seconds. Allow the bags to cool. Punch a hole in the corner to make a keychain. Decorate your backpack or purse. Place them in collages or scrapbooks. Create jewelry with the bags.
https://www.wikihow.com/Rest-Without-Completely-Sleeping
How to Rest Without Completely Sleeping
If you need a rest, but don't want to go to sleep, there are a few ways you can take a time-out and preserve your energy. Sit quietly and listen to the sounds around you or play some relaxing music. You can also meditate by closing your eyes and focusing on your breath. This will help you to unwind and let go of any stress you're feeling. Sit in a chair or on a couch instead of lying in bed so you won't accidentally fall asleep. If you're worried about drifting off, open a window or splash some water in your face before you sit down to rest.
Engage in mediation. Mediation is defined as the art of doing nothing and the techniques that provide you with rest are deeper than your deepest sleep. When you get overworked or severely tired and have no time to sleep, take time to mediate. Meditation will give you a deep rest from concentration, contemplation, and all of the sensory activities such as seeing, listening, smelling, and tasting. Meditation is a calming effect on the mind and provides it with deep rest. Try to meditate for at least twenty minutes a day for optimal performance. Zone out. With modern technology it seems we never have time to give our brain a short break. Zoning out, or mind-wandering, is a good exercise to take a short rest without sleeping during a busy day. When you need a break, walk over to a window and mindlessly watch the cars or people pass by for a few minutes until your mind doesn't think about anything. Find a quiet place and sit down. Close your eyes and just listen to the background noises. Instead of taking a smoke or coffee break for fifteen minutes, try going outside, closing your eyes, and just let the sun shine all over your body while you clear your mind. Plan on resting intentionally. Intentional resting can take place anywhere and at anytime. If you are really tired and need to take a short break from a busy day intentional resting can restore your energy by making a statement such as “I am resting my body because I am tired.” This method works for many people because you consciously choose to rest without trying to resist it. This exercise takes your stressed state of being to stillness and ultimately restores and enlivens you. Many people claim to feel energized after resting. Rest does matter and surrendering the need to reenergize, even without sleeping, can provide a much needed break during a busy day. Stay passively awake. This is also called paradoxical intention. The purpose is to reduce worry and anxiety for people with sleeping disorders to not fall asleep in a bed. Instead, you have to try to stay awake rather than expecting to fall asleep (hence paradoxical intention). Since obsessive thoughts tend to increase when you try to suppress them, it naturally becomes more difficult to sleep when you try so hard to do it. Therefore, by taking the opposite approach of increasing the problem will, in turn, reduce it. Take a cat nap. A cat nap is a short power nap of about ten or twenty minutes that will refresh and rejuvenate you. Find a quiet place that is comfortable and away from distractions. If you can, make the space dark, as if you were going to bed and try to lie down. Don't oversleep or the exact opposite effect will happen – you will become more tired. Plan to nap. Or, what the National Sleep Foundation (NSF) refers to as “planned napping.” Basically, this is where you schedule a time of the day to take a nap before you are tired. It is good to prepare for this type of nap if you know you will be making a long road trip or working late into the night. Similar to cat napping, try to limit planned napping to twenty or thirty minutes max. Bring a clock or watch with you so that you can set your alarm accordingly. Take an emergency nap. When you suddenly become so tired that you cannot function properly and could potentially cause harm to yourself or others, take an emergency nap. These types of naps are most common for people working double shifts or traveling great distances because of their job. This type of nap is used during times of fatigue or when using dangerous machinery and are taken out of necessity for safety reasons. If you have to resort to emergency napping frequently, it can become dangerous to your life and health. Make yourself uncomfortable. Sit in a hard chair, open the window in winter, blast loud music, slap yourself in the face, or whatever it takes to stay awake. Why would you do this? If you have an important meeting that you are preparing for or driving to a far away destination, you might have to stay awake for a long period of time. Go into the bathroom, run water until it is ice cold, and then splash it all over face. Turn up the intensity of the light in the room to reduce sleepiness and increase alertness. Pinch the end of your nose until your nostrils are completely closed and you feel discomfort. Consume caffeine. Caffeine has a dramatic impact on sleepiness. A single cup of coffee, for example, can give you a boost of alertness. About 100 to 200mg of caffeine will do the trick. Be strategic with your caffeine. Although helping you to stay awake, more than 500 mg of caffeine a day can cause headaches, restlessness, or anxiety. If you have to stay awake for a long period of time, drink a 5-Hour Energy, which has lots of useful B complex vitamins. Red Bull and Monster, however, rely mostly on caffeine and sugar, and are not recommended. Eat a healthy snack. Be careful of eating too many sugary snacks. Although sugar will give you an immediate boost of energy it will quickly die down and give you a sugar low overall. Instead, try eating a healthier snack that will help you stay awake. Try spreading peanut butter on a whole wheat cracker or on celery sticks. Sprinkle a handful of nuts or fresh fruit on top of your yogurt. Dip your baby carrots into a low-fat cream cheese. Exercise to increase energy. Recent studies show that low intensity exercises significantly reduce daytime fatigue compared to medication or and other methods. Try to get at least thirty minutes of exercise a day. It will not only improve your daytime performance, but also it will help you sleep better at night. Make sure to refill your energy levels after exercise by eating a meal that contains both protein and carbohydrates. Try not to exercise too late at night. Otherwise, your body will be too active to enjoy a good night sleep. Low intensity exercises include light walking, stretching, yoga, and swimming. Also, consider household chores such as vacuuming, gardening, or washing your car as potential to get your light workout in every day. Visit a doctor. If all else fails then visit your doctor. If you find it impossible to either get adequate sleep or don't have enough energy throughout the day, you might have a more serious condition that needs a professional diagnosis. When sleepiness begins to disrupt your personal and professional life go see a doctor. Insomnia, the inability to sleep, and narcolepsy, excessive daytime sleeping, are two of the more recognizable sleeping disorders, but cataplexy, sleep paralysis, and hallucinations can all occur if you are sleep deprived. Narcolepsy starts between the ages of ten and 25 and is believed to be caused by a chemical imbalance. There are no known cures so it is treated with medication. Insomnia is a disorder caused by stress, anxiety, depression, medical conditions, and age. Reducing these symptoms will help as will changing your sleeping patterns. If neither works, a doctor will recommend therapy or medication to treat the condition.
Engage in mediation. Zone out. Plan on resting intentionally. Stay passively awake. Take a cat nap. Plan to nap. Take an emergency nap. Make yourself uncomfortable. Consume caffeine. Eat a healthy snack. Exercise to increase energy. Visit a doctor.
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-Ear-Candles
How to Use Ear Candles
To use ear candles, trim the skinny end of a tapered candle so that it fits into your ear canal. Next, cover your head with a damp towel and massage the area behind your jawbone, around your temple, and your scalp for 30 seconds. Then, cut a small hole in a paper plate, place it over your ear, and position the tapered end of the candle in your ear canal. Finally, light the large end of the candle and let it burn for 15 minutes. Trim the candle every 2 inches and let it burn down until it's 3-4 inches tall.
Be aware of the risks of ear candling. Alternative medicine practitioners are strong advocates for the benefits of ear candling, but many medical doctors believe that candling is ineffective and dangerous. Being aware of the risks and concerns about ear candling can help you make an informed decision if it is the best way for you to remove your ear wax. Studies by otolaryngologists (ear, nose and throat doctors) have shown that ear candling can cause burns, blockages in the ear canal, ear infections, and ear drum perforations even if you use the candle according to the packaging. Most medical doctors believe that ear candling is ineffective for removing wax. Have a friend or family member assist you. It can be difficult to perform ear candling by yourself. Have a friend or family member assist you during the process. This can help minimize the risk of burning yourself or causing other trauma to your ear. Size the tapered, or small, end of the candle to your ear. The candle should be fitted to the size and contours of your ear. This can help ensure the most safe and effective candling process. Use the scissors to trim the end, making the opening slightly larger so it fills the ear canal. Make sure the opening is passable. There should be a clear pathway from one end of the candle to the other. If necessary, use a sharp, pointy object to remove any obstruction from the small end. Wash your hands and your ear. Before you begin candling your ear, wash your hands and wipe off your ear. This can minimize the risk of spreading bacteria that may cause an infection. Use a soft soap that is antibacterial and antimicrobial. You can wash your hands with a simple and basic soap. You may want to use an soft soap that is antimicrobial and antibacterial. Wipe off your ear with a moist cloth. Cover your head with a damp towel. Moisten a large towel with some water and cover your head and upper torso area. This can help prevent a flame or any ashes from hitting you during the candling process. Make sure to cover your head, hair, shoulders, and upper torso. Sit upright for the candling process. It will be easier and safer for you to sit upright during the ear candling process. This can help ensure that falling ashes don't contact or burn you. Be careful; if you do not do this correctly, you could burn yourself. Physicians often do not recommend using ear candles because of this risk. Rub the area behind your ear. Before you begin the candling procedure, massage the area around and behind your ear. This can help relax you and stimulate circulation in your ear area. Massage the area behind your jawbone, around your temple and your scalp. Rub for at least 30 seconds to open up the area around your ear. Put a paper plate or pie tin over your ear. Cut a small hole in either a paper plate or pie tin and place it over your ear. This can help ensure that you don't get burned with the flame or falling ashes. Use any type of paper plate or pie tin, which you can buy at most grocery stores. Make sure the hole corresponds to the size of the end of the ear candle. Fit the candle into this hole and hold it up over the ear being cleaned. Position the tapered end of the candle in your ear canal. Place the small end of the candle in the paper plate or pie tin and then position the tip of the candle in your ear canal. This can help ensure a safe and effective candling procedure. Keep the candle in a vertically upright position. When sitting upright, the candle should be at an approximately 30 degree angle. Light the large end of the candle. Have your assistant light the large end of the candle with a lighter or match. This will start the candling process and can help ensure that you safely light the candle without burning yourself. You will know if the candle is properly in place if no smoke escapes from between your ear and the small end of the candle. If you do not have a secure fit, readjust your position or the candle. It is important to get the secure fitting. If this takes a while, you may need to try again using a new candle. Burn the candle for approximately fifteen minutes. It should take about 15 minutes for the candle to burn down to the desired length. This can help minimize the risk for burning and maximize the amount of wax you're able to remove. Trim the candle every two inches. As the candle burns, trim it into a bowl of water every couple of inches. This can keep ashes or flames from falling close to and burning you. You can remove the candle to trim it into the bowl of water. Simply replace it securely in the canal when you're finished. Allow the candle burn to within 3–4 inches (7.6–10.2 cm). After the candle has burned down so there is only about 3 inches (7.6 cm) remaining, ask your assistant to extinguish the candle in the bowl of water. This can minimize your risk for getting burned by the candle. If the burn takes a while, have your assistant check the small end's opening after a few minutes to make sure it is not obstructed. If necessary, use a toothpick to swiftly clear the opening and reinsert the candle in the ear. Observe debris on the candle stub. Once you've removed the candle stub from your ear canal, you may be able to observe a mixture of ear wax, debris, and bacteria on the stub. This may help you to assess if you removed the wax or need to repeat the candling procedure. If you put the candle into water immediately, you may not see any wax. Clean the ear. Once you've finished the candling process, clean the outer area of your ear and ear canal. Be careful not to push any wax or remnants back down into the ear. You can use a cloth or cotton swab to clean the ear. Just make sure to not put a cotton swab all the way into your ear, which can push wax further into your ear or perforate your ear drum. Repeat the ear candling on the other ear. If both of your ears have a wax buildup, repeat the process on your other ear. Be sure to follow the steps closely and according to the product packaging. This may prevent burning or other trauma in your ear. Wipe the outside of your ear. You can clean the outside of your ear canal with a cloth or paper tissue. This may help remove discharge or any wax that has worked its way outside of your inner ear. Use a soft cloth to wipe around the outside of your ear and on your outer ear canal. If you like, you can wet the cloth slightly with warm water. Wrap a paper tissue around your finger and gently wipe your outer ear and outer ear canal with the tissue. Apply an over the counter eardrops to remove wax. For those people with minimal to moderate amounts of earwax, use an over the counter wax removal preparation. This can help clear any impacted wax. Most over the counter drops are mineral oil and peroxide solutions. The hydrogen peroxide will not dissolve your wax, but help it move through the ear canal. When using hydrogen peroxide, lie on your bed with your head to its side and a towel placed under your head. Pour (or use a rubber bulb) a small amount of H2O2 into the ear. The ear will start to feel warm and you will begin to hear a bubbling sound. This is normal. Roll your ear over onto the towel to let the peroxide drain out. Repeat on other side. If you have any ear discharge consult a doctor immediately. Make sure to follow the package instructions for using the products to help ensure you don't cause further problems. If you have an eardrum perforation or suspect that you may, do not use an over the counter preparation. The symptoms of a perforated eardrum include bloody or pus-filled discharge from your ear, hearing loss, or a ringing sound in your ear. You can purchase over the counter earwax removal drops at most pharmacies and some large retailers. Cerumenolytics (peroxide & mineral oil) can lead to complications including allergic reactions, otitis externa, transient hearing loss, and dizziness. Try oil or glycerin drops to soften wax. In addition to over-the-counter wax treatments, you can also use simple household oils or glycerin drops to relieve wax plugs. These treatments soften ear wax, making it easier to clear out of your ear canal. You can use baby or mineral oils as a treatment. Place one drop of baby or mineral oil in each ear and let it sit for a few minutes before allowing it to drain out. You may also try olive oil. However, one study found that water was more effective at removing ear wax than olive oil. There are no studies about how often its helpful to use oil or glycerin drops, but no more than a few times a week should be fine. Irrigate wax plugs. Irrigating, sometimes called “syringing,” is one of the most common methods of removing wax plugs from the ears. Try washing your ear by irrigation if you have large amounts or stubborn ear wax. You'll need a medical syringe to use this method, which you can buy at most pharmacies. Fill the syringe with body temperature water. Using cooler or warmer water may cause dizziness or vertigo. Hold your head upright and gently pull the outside of your ear upward to straighten your ear canal. Inject a small stream of water into your ear canal by where the wax plug is located. Tilt your head to drain the water. You may need to perform an irrigation several times in order to clear away the impaction. One study showed that injecting a small amount of water or oil into your ear before irrigation may help remove the wax more quickly. Never use a water jet device designed for teeth to irrigate your ears! Vacuum your ear canals. You can purchase a suction device or vacuum to remove earwax. Although studies show that this treatment is ineffective, you may find it works for you. You can get earwax suction devices at many pharmacies or large retailers. Dry out your ear. Once you've removed your ear wax, it's important to dry your ear thoroughly. This can help ensure that you don't get an infection or experience other problems. You can use a few drops of rubbing alcohol to dry out your ear. A hair dryer set to low can also help dry out your ear. Avoid cleaning too often or with instruments. Understand that every person needs a certain amount of wax to help prevent ear infections. Avoid cleaning your ears too often or using instruments such as cotton swabs to help keep a healthy amount of wax in your ears. Only clean your ears as often as you feel they require it. If you notice you need to clean your ears daily or excess discharge, see your doctor. Using instruments such as cotton swabs or hair pins can force wax into your ear instead of removing it, and may cause infection or other problems. Using instruments can also perforate your ear drum and lead to infection or hearing loss. Talk to your doctor about professional treatment options. If you can't remove your wax at home or experience other problems such as severe hearing loss, talk to your doctor about your different treatment options for wax plugs. This can help ensure that you get the most effective, least invasive, and most painless treatment for your impacted cerumen. Your doctor may recommend professional treatments or options that you can use at home, including drops and irrigation.
Be aware of the risks of ear candling. Have a friend or family member assist you. Size the tapered, or small, end of the candle to your ear. Wash your hands and your ear. Cover your head with a damp towel. Sit upright for the candling process. Rub the area behind your ear. Put a paper plate or pie tin over your ear. Position the tapered end of the candle in your ear canal. Light the large end of the candle. Burn the candle for approximately fifteen minutes. Trim the candle every two inches. Allow the candle burn to within 3–4 inches (7.6–10.2 cm). Observe debris on the candle stub. Clean the ear. Repeat the ear candling on the other ear. Wipe the outside of your ear. Apply an over the counter eardrops to remove wax. Try oil or glycerin drops to soften wax. Irrigate wax plugs. Vacuum your ear canals. Dry out your ear. Avoid cleaning too often or with instruments. Talk to your doctor about professional treatment options.
https://www.wikihow.com/Know-if-Your-Cat-Is-Sick
How to Know if Your Cat Is Sick
To know if your cat is sick, watch for symptoms like frequent diarrhea and vomiting, which could be a sign that something is wrong. Also, listen to your cat's breathing. If it's breathing very quickly and shallowly with its mouth open, it may be sick. You should also look at your cat's eyes and nose for excessive discharge, which can be signs of allergies or illness. These, along with changes in your cat's sleeping and eating patterns, probably mean it's time for a visit to the vet.
Pay attention to how much your cat sleeps. Sick cats will sleep more. If your cat doesn't have other signs of illness, such as vomiting, diarrhea, loss of appetite, or obvious swellings, then keep him/her under observation. If symptoms develop, get him/her checked by a vet. If your cat isn't showing other symptoms, monitor him/her for 24 hours (of course, it's fine to get her checked by a vet before this if you are worried). If he/she enters a second day of excessive tiredness then it's time to take him/her to the vet clinic. Check your cat's temperature for fever. Use a rectal thermometer to check your cat's temperature. However, if she gets distressed it is best to stop and leave this to your veterinarian. 99.5 to 102.5 degrees Fahrenheit is a normal temperature range, while anything over 102.5 is regarded as raised, and over 103 is feverish.Take your cat to the vet if it has a fever. A feverish cat usually sleeps heavily, may refuse food, and often has a dull coat that sticks out at odd angles. Its nose and ears may be dry and warm when you touch them with fingers at normal body temperature. While touching the ears is an inaccurate way of checking temperature, if the cat's ears feel cool then it is unlikely he/she has a fever. Monitor any change in your cat's litter box habits. Pay attention to: how often your cat uses the tray, if it has difficulty, if blood or mucus is in the urine, or if the feces are hard and nugget-like. If the cat has had diarrhea, but continues to strain or has constipation (signaled by the hard dry feces) take it to the vet. Repeated straining and not passing urine, or the presence of blood, should trigger an urgent call to the vet. Male cats are prone to urinary problems where they have difficulty passing water. The signs include visiting the tray frequently, and perhaps even squatting outside the tray. The cat may squat for several minutes or keep getting up and moving to a new spot then squatting again. If possible, check to see if he/she produced any urine (is the patch wet or dry?) and if he/she did, check for blood. Pay attention to your cat’s appetite. If you have noticed that your cat has not been eating much, or has been eating more than normal, there may be something wrong. If your cat shows no interest in food for a full day, there could be a range of issues--from eating the neighbors' food, to feeling nauseous, to kidney problems. On the other hand, if you cat is suddenly ravenous, it could signal a health issue. If your cat refuses food for more than 24 hours, get him/her checked by a vet so that the underlying problem can be corrected before he/she develops complications. Check to see if your cat is dehydrated. Be alert for changes in your cat's drinking behavior. How much your cat drinks depends on whether he/she eats wet food (in which case it is unusual to see him/her drinking) or dry food (it is normal to see him/her drinking). Many conditions cause increased thirst, such as some types of infections, kidney disease, overactive thyroids, and diabetes. If your cat is thirsty, have him/her checked out by a vet. You can also physically check. Carefully and gently, grasp his/her skin between his/her shoulder blades. Pull the skin up and away from his/her body (again, very gently) and then let go. If your cat's skin does not snap immediately back into place, he/she is more than likely dehydrated and should be taken to the vet. Pay attention to your cat’s weight and body silhouette. Any change in weight is significant and should merit a trip to the vet. Sudden or even gradual weight loss could signal illness. If in doubt, weigh your cat once a week at home and if the cat keeps losing weight seek veterinary advice. In the early stages of conditions such as diabetes or hyperthyroidism, the cat may seem otherwise well, but lose weight. Seek medical advice if the cat keeps losing weight. Some illnesses, such as cancer in the belly or heart disease, mean the cat's overall weight stays the same but he/she loses body condition. This means you can feel his/her ribs and backbone more easily as there is less fat cover, but his/her belly might look rounded or swollen. If in doubt, get him/her checked by a veterinarian. Examine your cat’s coat. A sick cat usually doesn't have the energy to groom himself.Typically, a coat that was once glossy and well-kept becomes dull, matted, and tangled. While stress can account for shedding or changes in grooming habits, your cat may actually be sick. Consult with a vet. Changes in grooming habits may also be a result of arthritis. Grooming may be painful if your cat is stiff and sore. Once again, it's a sign that a trip to the vet is necessary. Watch for vomiting. If your cat vomits, especially several times a day, and seems under the weather, then this is significant. If the cat either refuses water or vomits after drinking water, then he/she should be seen by a vet. Many cats are happy vomiters, meaning they throw up from time to time (once or twice a week) as a means of cleansing their system. This is nothing to worry about in a cat that's active, responsive, behaving normally and eating well. Look for diarrhea. A cat should produce formed, sausage-like feces. Diarrhea is liquid feces that have no shape, and is definitely abnormal. If the cat is otherwise well, it is acceptable to wait 24 hours to see if the cat has merely eaten something that has upset his/her tummy. However, if he/she is vomiting, off his/her food, listless, or lethargic, or has blood or mucus (a jelly like substance) in her stools, then she should be seen by a vet. Pay attention to the cat's activity level. Lethargy, or lack of energy, can indicate fever, breathing difficulties, or the cat being in pain. This is subtly different from the cat sleeping more, because the cat is awake, but doesn't have the energy to interact or participate in daily activities. If the cat is lethargic and breathing quicker, he/she should see a vet. Take note of your cat's personality. If your cat is unusually tired and loses interest in exercise and regular daily activities, this could be a sign that your pet is undernourished or ill. Listen for respiratory problems. If your cat is breathing very quickly and shallowly or with his/her mouth open, and has not been exerting him/herself, you should take your cat to the vet. You should also try to gauge how labored the cat's breathing appears. If you notice his/her stomach muscles heaving, in order to breathe, see the vet. Sometimes purring can confuse the respiratory rate (it makes the rate appear faster), so try to count her breaths when he/she is not purring or asleep. The normal respiratory rate in the cat is about 20 - 30 breaths a minute, and should be at the lower end when relaxed. Pay attention to head tilting, dizziness, or disorientation. All of these may be symptoms of a neurological disorder or ear infection. If present, your cat should be brought to the vet immediately. Your cat is an agile creature who is nimble on his/her feet. If this changes and he/she becomes clumsy, or holds his/her head on one side, then the chances are something is wrong. These changes could signal a stroke, high blood pressure, or even a brain tumor, so a trip to the vet is advisable. Groom your cat often to check for new lumps or growths. Most lumps or abscesses are benign, but if there is oozing or tenderness it will need to be checked. Also, pay attention to bad smells that can come from infected scratches. Again, get your cat checked. If left untreated, the infection can cause blood poisoning. Pay attention to your cat's eyes. Examine the eyes (as well as the nose) for any excessive discharge. If your cat constantly appears to be crying, she may be allergic to something or have a sinus infection. If discharge is present with excessive drinking/urination, lethargy, and a lackluster coat have your cat checked by a veterinarian for possible kidney failure. Also check pupil dilation. Some illnesses cause cats' eyes to dilate and remain that way. You should take your cat to the vet immediately if you notice that your cat's pupils remain very dilated. Look in your cat's mouth. Specifically, look for any discoloration in the gums. If you notice that your cat's gums, particularly those with black gums, have become very pale, then your cat might be sick. You should also smell your cat's breath. If there is an odd smell that is not caused by something you are feeding your cat, then there may be a problem. Check your cat for fleas. Watch for excessive scratching, which may be indicative of fleas. If you see your cat scratching himself often, you will need to perform a spot check. Get a fine toothed comb and run it through your cat's fur. Look for little, fast-moving brown specks (which are fleas) particularly around your cat's neck and tail. You can also check for fleas by grooming the cat over a sheet of blank white paper. You may see fleas in the comb's teeth or flea dirt on the paper. Flea dirt is black and comma shaped. If placed on damp cotton wool it dissolves into bloody streaks. Many commercial products are available to kill fleas and remove them from your home. Ask your vet for specific recommendations. Listen for dry coughing and vomiting that may signify hairballs. Hairballs can also cause bad breath or low appetite. Serious hairball problems may become Trichobezoars (hard lumps of matted hair and undigested foul-smelling food) and extreme cases may require surgery. Regularly groom your cat to reduce hairballs. Other effective home remedies include adding supplements to their diet such as: Slippery Elm Bark to lubricate the hairball passage or pumpkin pulp (canned) which adds bulk fiber to stools, easing the hairball out. These items can periodically be added to treats like fish or cooked chicken/livers as a preventative for hairballs. You should consult with the veterinarian to be certain that a more serious problem is not the cause. Look for hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid. Symptoms include increased appetite or thirst, unexplained weight loss (particularly muscle mass), nervousness or irritability, frequent vomiting, lethargy and weakness, diarrhea, or a messy coat. If two or more symptoms are present, your cat will need to see the veterinarian. Hyperthyroidism typically occurs in middle-aged to older cats and is rare in a young cat. Increased appetite is a handy warning sign that your cat needs veterinary attention. The thyroid hormone that triggers appetite also raises the metabolic rate and puts organ function under strain. Watch for symptoms of feline diabetes. Signs of diabetes include vomiting, dehydration, weakness and loss of appetite, increased thirst and urination, weight loss, breathing abnormalities, and an unkempt coat. Feline diabetes affect cats of any age, but is most common in older, obese male/female cats. If your cat has any or several symptoms, take him/her to the vet where blood and urine sugar levels can be tested. Watch for symptoms of feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD). Signs of FLUTD include inappropriate or difficult and frequent urination, appetite loss, listlessness, blood in the urine, or frequent licking of the genitals. This disease is a painful inflammation of the lower urinary tract that has the potential to quickly become fatal. FLUTD has a number of causes, from decreased water intake and urine retention to viruses, bacteria, or diet. Some dry foods can cause crystals to build up in the urine which scuff and irritate the bladder lining. If left untreated, they can form bladder stones which are potentially serious if they cause a blockage.
Pay attention to how much your cat sleeps. Check your cat's temperature for fever. Monitor any change in your cat's litter box habits. Pay attention to your cat’s appetite. Check to see if your cat is dehydrated. Pay attention to your cat’s weight and body silhouette. Examine your cat’s coat. Watch for vomiting. Look for diarrhea. Pay attention to the cat's activity level. Listen for respiratory problems. Pay attention to head tilting, dizziness, or disorientation. Groom your cat often to check for new lumps or growths. Pay attention to your cat's eyes. Look in your cat's mouth. Check your cat for fleas. Listen for dry coughing and vomiting that may signify hairballs. Look for hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid. Watch for symptoms of feline diabetes. Watch for symptoms of feline lower urinary tract disease (FLUTD).
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How to Get Your Cat to Stop Hissing
To get your cat to stop hissing, try giving it some space and time to relax and calm down, since cats sometimes hiss because they are stressed or nervous. Alternatively, spend more time playing with your cat or give it some new toys to stimulate it and keep it from getting anxious. Then, make sure that your cat has a place to escape to, like a climbing post or kitty shelf, where people and other cats can't get to it. You can also spritz a pheromone spray from a pet store in the air when your cat seems stressed to soothe and calm it.
Understand why cats hiss. Cats don't usually hiss to show dominance or threaten other animals. They usually hiss when they feel vulnerable, frightened, or in pain. However, cats may still hiss out of aggression. Either way, trying to punish a cat for hissing will only make it more upset, and likely to hiss even more. When a cat is being aggressive, it is more likely to growl or yowl. Give your cat some space until you figure out why he is hissing. Recognize the signs of aggression. Though every cat behaves differently, there are some characteristics that will almost always accompany hissing if the behavior is a sign of aggression. Swatting or scratching with the front paws. Biting people or other animals. Growling, shrieking, or yowling. Barring teeth and/or claws. Look for recent changes. Have you moved your cat into a new home or apartment? Have you introduced a new pet to the household? What about a new roommate? Have you changed the arrangement of furniture? Any of these could cause your cat to feel "off," and it's possible your cat's fear or confusion could be expressed through hissing. Consider a trip to the vet. If your cat is hissing and there haven't been any changes in his environment or his temperament, he may be hissing because he is in pain. Consider taking your cat in for a visit with your veterinarian. Allow your cat to adjust. Whether you've gotten a new pet, or undergone a recent move, your cat will probably need some time to adjust to his new surroundings. Introduce new pets in a controlled environment. It may be a good idea to introduce them in a neutral area outside your home, so that they can become familiarized without either pet feeling intruded upon. If bringing a new pet into your home, keep the new pet separate from your current cat(s), and provide the new pet separate food, water, and a litter box. Allow the pets to socialize in your home gradually, over a period of several days to several weeks. Introduce them first by scent by letting the cats each sleep on a piece of your old clothing that has your scent on it as an intermediary. The next night, swap the clothing over so the cats get a whiff of each other's scent. This "Scent handshake" can smooth over the introduction as they learn about one another. Keep an aggressive cat in his carrier during introductions, if he has displayed hissing and other aggressive behavior toward the new pet. Humans often cannot detect cat scent marks. Use a handheld blacklight, available at any pet store, to look for cat urine stains on walls and furniture. Check your cat for injuries. When cats fight, they often receive wounds that are not obviously visible. Carefully examine the animal by approaching the cat slowly, and gently running your hands over its body looking for tender spots. Your cat will let you know if you've found one, so don't poke or prod. If you find an injury, take the cat to the vet or animal hospital right away. Common locations for fighting injuries include the head, chest and legs. Be very careful, an injured cat will lash out to try to protect itself, and can cause serious injury. Consider neutering your cat. If your male cat is displaying excessive aggression, including hissing, it's possible that he is hyper-territorial. Neutering an aggressive male cat may help correct this behavior and reduce his undesirable aggression. Listen to your cat. If your cat does not like to be petted, or held, or picked up, hissing may be his way of letting you know. Respect his boundaries, and don't handle your cat in a way he is not comfortable with. Always make sure the cat has an escape route to avoid you if she feels threatened. Many cats will hiss when they are cornered, as a sign they're not comfortable with how close you are and would you please go away. Having a quick look around you and making sure the cat has a clear line of sight way to get away of her own accord is likely to ease some of the tension. Take precautions against redirected aggression. It's possible that your cat is hissing at you because he feels threatened by a neighborhood cat or dog that has challenged your cat through the window or screen door. If you believe this to be the case, try keeping the curtains and door closed as much as possible. Consider whether your cat is afraid of people. It's possible that your cat was physically harmed or neglected by a previous owner, or even by someone who currently interacts with your cat. Investigate how other people treat the cat. Is there a chance that someone or something is harming or harassing your cat that you are not aware of? Ask around, and keep a close eye on children who may not know how to treat a cat properly. If you are suspicious that someone is harming your cat while you aren't around, consider installing a nanny cam, or setting up a laptop or phone to discreetly film the cat's environment for a few days. Give your cat space and time to calm down. When your cat hisses, back off. It's important that a cat not feel trapped or threatened, so don't corner it in a room. Just leaving a door open a crack so the cat knows it can run if it needs to can help soothe an anxious animal. When approaching a nervous cat, go slow, and give it ample time to adjust to your presence and your scent. If your cat does run out of the room, don't chase it. That will only increase its anxiety. Make sure to warn children and guests to give your cat space, and to not try to force it to be sociable. Remove irritants from your cat's environment. Clean up any cat spray that might be in the home using a specially-formulated cleaner. If a neighbor cat is lurking outside a particular window or sliding glass door, use opaque contact paper or cardboard to cover the window so your cat can't see the intruder. If your cat is an indoor animal, you can use cayenne pepper or a specially formulated cat repellent around the perimeter of your yard to try to keep other cats from intruding. Provide adequate resources and refuge for the cat. If your cat is stressed out by a new baby or pet, time will often help, but you can further assist your cat by providing him with ample resources and places to hide. Make sure the cat has at least one place to perch that will keep him out of reach from any would-be pesterers, like a tall climbing post or kitty shelf. If you have more than one cat, make sure that there are enough litter boxes, food dishes, and water bowls for everyone. Cats are much happier when they don't have to share. Buy some new toys. Spend more time playing with your cat, and try introducing new ways to stimulate him. Hide little treats around the house where your cat can find them, and never underestimate the therapeutic power of catnip. Try a pheromone spray. There are a number of products on the market that help soothe stressed cats by releasing soothing pheromones into the air. Check with your vet or local pet store for a specific recommendation. These products can be pricey, but they may be worth it. Consult your veterinarian. If you still can't figure out how what's bothering your cat, or how to fix it, have your pet checked out by the vet. There may be something going on physically with the cat that you can't see, or the vet may have suggestions for medication or other treatments that can help soothe your distressed animal.
Understand why cats hiss. Recognize the signs of aggression. Look for recent changes. Consider a trip to the vet. Allow your cat to adjust. Introduce new pets in a controlled environment. Check your cat for injuries. Consider neutering your cat. Listen to your cat. Take precautions against redirected aggression. Consider whether your cat is afraid of people. Give your cat space and time to calm down. Remove irritants from your cat's environment. Provide adequate resources and refuge for the cat. Buy some new toys. Try a pheromone spray. Consult your veterinarian.
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How to Prevent Ticks on Dogs
To prevent ticks on dogs, apply a topical insecticide to your dog's back, between its shoulders, which can help keep ticks away for 30-90 days. You can also fit your dog with a tick collar that contains dog-safe pesticides, which will kill ticks for 3-4 months. If you're looking for a short-term option, spray your dog with a tick spray designed for temporary, immediate use.
Keep your dog away from known tick habitats. Ticks inhabit dense, wooded vegetative areas--patches of overgrown shrubs, meadows with thick brush, and places where the ground is covered with decaying leaves. Ticks engage in a behavior called "questing": they climb low shrubs and grass until they're 18-24 inches off the ground, and they lurk in wait for animals--like your dog--to brush against their perch. Be especially wary if you're passing through an area with a profusion of low, thick underbrush. Ticks have heat sensors that can detect the body heat emitted by a dog. The tick uses its legs to grab onto your dog's fur as the dog passes by. It worms its way through the fur like a covert operative, like a heat-seeking, blood-thirsty missile toward the skin. The tick begins to gorge itself on the dog's blood in order to fertilize its eggs. Stay on the trails when hiking with your pet, and make sure that your pet remains with you. Avoid wooded areas and long grasses where ticks are common. If your dog runs off the trail (as they often do), make sure to check him for ticks when you get home. Identify tick habitat in your yard. If your dog spends a lot of time running about your yard, it may be at risk of encountering ticks. Ticks don't usually live out in the open--say, in the center of your lawn. Ticks congregate on the fringes: where yards border wooded areas; where there are ornamental plantings and thick gardens; and anywhere shady, where leaves are decaying with high humidity. Rake up decaying leaves, trim overgrown brush, and keep your dog from sticking its nose into wooded areas. Keep your lawn trimmed low (below ankle height) so that it doesn't become a hospitable environment for ticks. Secure your trash cans with strong lids; take out any rock piles and brushy cover. This helps keep away rodents that may carry ticks. Check your dog for ticks every day, especially if it's been outside. Be thorough. Dogs tend to pick up many more ticks than humans do. Groom your dog after a walk in the woods. Work through its fur with a fine-toothed comb to remove any ticks that are clinging to the hairs. Part the fur with your hands and inspect your dog's skin to make sure that no ticks have already taken root. Feel for irregular lumps. Remember to check between your dog's toes, behind and in the ears, in the armpits and belly, and all around the tail and the head. If you find a tick on your dog, remove it right away. Use tweezers or a tick scoop, and be gentle. If you're using tweezers: Grasp the tick as close to the skin as possible by gripping its head. Steadily pull upward until the tick releases his grip. Do not twist or jerk the tick or you might break off the head or mouth parts; you do not want to leave the tick head embedded in your pet's skin. Do not squeeze to the point of crushing the tick, or you may may spread any diseases that the tick is carrying. Ask your veterinarian to conduct a tick check at each exam. This is a great way to ensure that you haven't missed anything. Carefully watch the vet conduct the tick check so that you can improve your own technique. Check your home for ticks. Dogs can carry ticks in that do not latch on immediately, but instead spread throughout a home. Keep your eyes peeled for small, eight-legged, spider- or mite-like creatures. Be aware that ticks may take a while to work their way through the fur before they actually bite a dog. If your dog comes into the house before the tick has properly latched on, there's a chance that the tick will instead find its way onto you or one of your family members. Ticks love interior textures that are reminiscent of their outdoor environment: thick carpets or fabrics--anywhere that they can hide. If you think that you might have a tick infestation, consider thoroughly vacuuming your home. Be vigilant. Consider spreading diatomaceous earth, baking soda, or borax into your carpet to kill fleas and ticks. Diatomaceous earth is toxic to ticks, but not to humans or dogs; however, you should be sparing with baking soda and borax treatments. Make your dog an unappealing host for ticks. It is safest to keep your dog away from wooded areas and tick habitats, but if you do decide to take him for a hike, you can make him less appetizing to these bloodthirsty bugs. Try applying a topical insecticide directly to your dog's skin for long-term protection. This may be the easiest solution. A one-time dose will protect your dog from fleas for anywhere from 30 to 90 days. Try fitting your dog with a tick collar. Tick collars need to be changed every 3 to 4 months, but they are relatively non-intrusive and they will kill ticks. Many tick collars contain a dog-safe pesticide--an acaricide--that kills ticks without poisoning your dog. Some acaricides kill ticks on contact; others are absorbed into your dog's bloodstream, over time, and kill ticks that attach and feed. Try using tick sprays. Tick-repellent sprays are typically designed for a one-time use, and they tend to wear off more quickly than the other options. Tick sprays are often made from natural ingredients, whereas many other tick repellents are based on pesticides and insecticides. Be careful not to mix medications. Ask your veterinarian before starting your dog on a new anti-tick product, particularly if it's a pesticide. Use topical insecticides. Apply these treatments to a small area on the back of the dog, between its shoulders; they may be the easiest product to use, and they typically last the longest. These medications must be reapplied once a month, typically, although some products may last as long as 90 days. Avoid touching your dog's back for a few hours after you've applied the product to give it time to sink into the skin. Some products kill fleas and ticks, and others just fleas, so check the label carefully. Active ingredients may include permethrin, pyrethrin, or fipronil. Do not use a product containing permethrin on cats: it can be deadly. Visit a pet supply store or a veterinarian and explore the range of products available to you. Use a tick collar. These can be used instead of--or in conjunction with--topical flea medications, and they fit alongside most regular dog collars. Check the package to see how long the collar will protect your dog. Many collars must be changed every 3 to 4 months for optimal protection. Be aware that many collars lose their effectiveness when they get wet. If your dog spends a lot of time in the water, then this may not be the solution for you. To get the right degree of snugness, you should just be able to get two fingers between the collar and the neck of your dog. Be sure to cut off any excess collar to prevent your dog from chewing on it. Bathe your dog in flea-and-tick shampoo. These products are primarily designed to rid your dog of the ticks that he already has on him, although some shampoos have a lingering anti-tick effect. You can find medicated shampoos in your local grocery or pet store. To properly use a flea and tick shampoo, you must be sure to work the shampoo in over your dog's entire body, and then leave it on for at least 10 minutes before you rinse it off. This is true of almost any medicated shampoo. Remember to protect your dog's eyes and ears. Consider placing a white towel beneath your dog while you bathe it. Ticks may fall off of your dog and onto the towel, making them easier to spot and kill. Use a tick spray. This may be a good solution if you don't normally have a problem with ticks, but you are taking your dog to an area that you know is heavily infested. Tick sprays are usually designed for temporary, immediate use, but you can apply them as needed. Follow your veterinarian's and the manufacturer's directions on how often to spray, and spray in a well-ventilated area. Sprays often contain permethrin or pyrethrin. Many tick sprays are made from natural ingredients. This is a good alternative if you worry about your dog being exposed to pesticides. Most other tick preventatives are based on insecticides or pesticides. Flea and tick control sprays can come as aerosols or pump bottles. When using a spray, you do not have to soak your dog with the spray, but be sure to spray every inch of its body. Spray a small amount on a cotton ball to apply the product around the eyes and ears. Do not get any of these products in the eyes. Consider keeping your dog pesticide-free. The use of pesticides to treat pets--particularly permethrin, which is toxic to cats and has been known to kill indiscriminately--is somewhat controversial. Read the ingredients listed on any commercial anti-tick product, and do your research to make sure that they're safe for your dog. Ask your veterinarian before using any pesticide on your dog. Consider making your own anti-tick powder. If you want to avoid the toxins and pesticides found in most tick repellents, you can use ingredients from your home and garden to protect your dog from tick attacks. Mix equal quantities of diatomaceous earth (natural diatomaceous earth, made from tiny fossilized water plants--not pool-grade diatomaceous earth); Neem powder (Indian tree containing the pesticide oneliminoid, the powder which can be found in health stores); and yarrow (a skin-soothing herb and natural tick repellent that grows wild across the northern hemisphere). Pour the mixture into a shaker jar. Ruffle your dog's hair to expose the skin, and methodically apply small amounts of the powder from the back of your dog to the front of your dog. Be sure to cover the neck area. For a medium-sized dog, you should need about a teaspoon's worth of the dust. Apply it to your dog each month, and it may keep away ticks. Make a homemade herbal tick "collar". Mix two tablespoons of almond oil with Rose Geranium Oil or Palo Santo , and dab a few drops on your dog's neck before you head out into the woods. You can also place the oil directly onto the dog's collar. Re-apply weekly. To make a citrus repellent: Cut a lemon into quarters and put it into a pint jar. Cover it with boiling water and let it steep overnight. Put the solution in a spray bottle and spray all over the dog, especially behind the ears, around the head, at the base of the tail and in the arm pits. Make natural tick shampoo. Mix several drops of Palo Santo into your favorite organic lavender shampoo. Lather into your dog's fur, and let the suds sit on your dog for twenty minutes before rinsing. This may work to kill any existing ticks and prevent new ones from latching on. Make a natural flea and tick remedy with apple cider vinegar. Apple cider vinegar may may your dog's blood slightly more acidic, making it less appealing to ticks and fleas. Add two tablespoons of apple cider vinegar to your dog's food or water dish as a preventative measure. Consider spraying your dog with apple cider vinegar instead of pesticidal tick repellent. Fill a spray bottle with the cider vinegar and lightly coat every inch of your dog before you venture into a tick-infested area. Bear in mind that this is a home remedy, and it may not be as immediately effective as pesticide treatments. However, apple cider vinegar is not as potentially threatening to your dog's health.
Keep your dog away from known tick habitats. Identify tick habitat in your yard. Check your dog for ticks every day, especially if it's been outside. Check your home for ticks. Make your dog an unappealing host for ticks. Use topical insecticides. Use a tick collar. Bathe your dog in flea-and-tick shampoo. Use a tick spray. Consider keeping your dog pesticide-free. Consider making your own anti-tick powder. Make a homemade herbal tick "collar". Make natural tick shampoo. Make a natural flea and tick remedy with apple cider vinegar.
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How to Breed Clownfish
To breed clownfish, purchase a mated pair of fish, or 2 fish that are already bonded, from an aquarium store. Place plants, anemone, and rocks in the tank, and keep the water in the tank clean, which can help make the fish more likely to breed. Turn off the lights in the aquarium at night, which may also help the fish feel relaxed enough to breed. Once you see eggs in the tank, set up a separate hatchling tank with an air stone and a diffused light. You can either move the eggs or wait until the hatchlings come out of the eggs to move them to the new tank.
Make sure you are very familiar with the basics of keeping a saltwater aquarium. Breeding fish is a project that should be taken on by people who are experienced with saltwater aquarium set up and maintenance. While breeding these fish is not difficult, it does require a bit of knowledge about fish feeding and life cycles, not to mention having the right supplies to assure proper tank filtration and ecosystem development. If you want to begin setting up your own aquarium, you may want to consult How to Start a Saltwater Aquarium or How to Set up a Marine Reef Aquarium before diving into breeding fish. Get a mated pair from an aquarium store. Clownfish are external breeders, meaning that the female fish lays eggs and then the male fish fertilizes them after they have been laid. To make this happen you will need to get a pair of clownfish that are already bonded, in other words mated to each other. Many aquarium stores will sell mated pairs specifically for clownfish breeding. If your store does not have any in stock, they can probably special order a pair just for you. Don't be afraid to ask! Develop a mated pair. The other way you can get a mated pair is to develop two young clownfish into a bonded pair yourself. Begin by buying two clownfish when they are still young. One of the amazing things about clownfish is that they are all born neither male or female, so you don't have to worry about getting one male and one female. Any pair will do. Developing into a male or female fish only occurs as the fish get older. The sex of your fish will actually be determined by the dominance of the fish when fighting each other. The dominant fish will change sex into a female and the less dominant will become male. If you are keeping a lot of clownfish in the same tank, only one bonded pair will develop. The most dominant of all will become female and the second most dominant will become male. The rest will remain sexless. If you want to keep the fighting to a minimum and make the fish change sex as quickly as possible, it is a good idea to get one clownfish that is larger than the other, that way it is clear from the get go which one is dominant. Keep the water in your tank clean. Clownfish are not as sensitive to water conditions as other fish can be, but keeping the water clean can make them more likely to breed. Place plants and rocks in your aquarium. Placing anemone in the tank to make the clownfish feel more comfortable. Although this is not totally necessary, it will increase the likelihood that your pair will breed. You should also have live rock in your tank. Live rock is rock that is from the ocean and is the foundation of the development of coral reefs. The live rock will provide the fish have hiding places and will give a surface on which the clownfish can lay and care for their eggs. Keep your aquarium lighting on a timer. Keep it light during the day and dark at night on a regular schedule. This regularity will keep your clownfish more relaxed, and thus more likely to spawn. Recognize the changes in clownfish behavior that signal spawning. The female, the bigger of your two fish, will get thicker around her middle, indicating she is getting ready to release eggs. Both fish may also start to clean the rocks with their mouth and fins to get it ready for the eggs. Keep a look out for the clownfish eggs. Once the eggs are laid they will be orange in color and attached to the rocks. The male clownfish will care for them, swimming around them and waving his fins on them to aerate them. He may also pick off the ones that have died. Track changes in the clownfish eggs. Clownfish eggs go through multiple stages of development. As stated before, they begin as an orange color but shift The eggs should hatch in about 7 to 10 days. You will need to feed the fry live rotifers for the first week. Rotifers are plankton that many species feed on. After that, you can start to introduce live brine shrimp. Clownfish babies will only eat live food. Set up a separate hatchling tank once the eggs are laid. It does not need to be very big, a 10 gallon (37.8 l) tank will do fine for the hatchlings. Make sure the tank does not have a large filtration system but instead has an air stone that lets off little bubbles or some other more gentle means of oxygenation. Too much filtration could easily kill all your tiny fry. You must also provide proper lighting for the fry since they will be searching for food but their vision is not the greatest. The light shouldn't be too bright, one light bulb is sufficient, and should be as diffused as possible. Move the hatchlings to a separate tank. Some breeders move the eggs before they hatch but most wait until the hatchlings come out of their eggs, as moving the hatchlings is easier. Either way, you will need to raise the fry in a separate aquarium as clownfish are known to eat their own eggs and hatchlings. Be sure to get the extra tank ready ahead of time. Feed your clownfish hatchlings. While in the egg sack, the embryos use energy from the yoke to survive, but once they emerge, the hatchlings will need food fast! Clownfish hatchlings should be fed live rotifers, which are microscopic aquatic animals. These can sometimes be found at an aquarium store but you should check with your's to make sure. Many clownfish breeders find it easier to breed rotifers for their hatchlings to eat, than it is to find them at an aquarium store. Make sure you have a steady supply of them before beginning the breeding process, otherwise your hatchlings will die at this stage. Change 20-50% of the water in their tank daily. This is important in order to keep the water clean but it also assures that the water is clear enough for the hatchlings to see the rotifers they need to eat. Expect some of your fry to not make it through the transition from a fry to a fish. One of the hardest transitions in the life of a clownfish is when they move from their larval stage to being a juvenile clownfish. To give them a good shot at developing, transition their food from rotifers to live brine shrimp so that they can get enough energy to grow rapidly. You can also add nutrients to the water, such as those sold for keep saltwater reef tanks healthy. Watch as your fry turn into juvenile fish. If the fish make it through the transition, you should start seeing the distinctive color of the clownfish develop on your fish. They should continue to grow rapidly, so make sure you continue to give them enough food and to keep their water clear and clean.
Make sure you are very familiar with the basics of keeping a saltwater aquarium. Get a mated pair from an aquarium store. Develop a mated pair. Keep the water in your tank clean. Place plants and rocks in your aquarium. Keep your aquarium lighting on a timer. Recognize the changes in clownfish behavior that signal spawning. Keep a look out for the clownfish eggs. Track changes in the clownfish eggs. Set up a separate hatchling tank once the eggs are laid. Move the hatchlings to a separate tank. Feed your clownfish hatchlings. Change 20-50% of the water in their tank daily. Expect some of your fry to not make it through the transition from a fry to a fish. Watch as your fry turn into juvenile fish.
https://www.wikihow.com/Teach-Kids-How-to-Draw
How to Teach Kids How to Draw
If you want to teach 15 month to 5 year old kids how to draw, ask them open-ended questions about their drawings that encourage them to draw more details. Once they are 5 to 8 years old, teach them to draw objects by looking at them instead of just imagining them. Finally, teach 9 to 11 year old's spatial awareness and anatomical proportions by having them draw portraits.
Make art part of the routine. Incorporate art-making into playtime. Make an art-zone if you want to isolate the mess. Tape down paper for them to draw on and spill on, and make a smock out of old clothes. Taping paper on a table can help a small child focus on the motion of drawing, without having to hold down and adjust the drawing paper. Buy chunky crayons and washable markers that are easy to grip. Children will begin their drawing by scribbling. Around 2 years of age, the scribbles will become more controlled and repetitive, and children may begin to grip crayons and markers between their thumb and pointer finger for more control. Offer a variety of art materials at this age. Don't focus only on drawing with tools: children can draw by tracing pictures in the sand, or shaping clay and sticking it on the page. Buy washable paints, nontoxic clay, chalk, child-safe scissors, and many kinds of paper, and store in an easy to access spot. Don't teach. Children develop basic motor skills with every scribble. They also develop creativity, invention, and self-expression. A child this young needs no instructions, only appreciation. Sit with children when they draw, talk with them about their art, but do not attempt to teach. Avoid the impulse to correct. Small children may paint purple grass, floating people, and babies the size of houses. If you correct them you will damage their self-confidence and interrupt their natural learning progress. Make observations. Rather than praising or correcting a child's art, observe it. Comment on the process, not the product. While the child draws, say "look at all the circles you are making! Some small circles are inside the big circles" or "I see you are using orange and green crayons now." Say what you like about a drawing: "that big sun makes me think of a day at the beach!" or "I like how all the trees have different colored leaves." Ask open-ended questions. Avoid asking "what is it?" when presented with a drawing. Instead, ask "can you tell me about your drawing?" If a child is excited to talk about their drawing, ask more questions. A child may begin to add more details when you ask questions. When a child is drawing representational work, they will often imagine a story that goes with the work. Asking them to tell you more details of their story will encourage them to draw more details. If you ask "what does the girl smell," for example, they are more likely to add a nose. If you ask "is the dog lonely at night?" they may draw more animals. This kind of exchange encourages imagination, story-telling abilities, and drawing skills. Make art part of emotional processing. If a child is experiencing a strong emotion, offer them paper and markers, or some clay. If a child is having a tantrum, suggest they make an angry picture. If they are sad, a sad one. Art can help children process intense emotions that may be too complex for them to put in words. Giving a child a creative activity over which they have sovereignty can help them gain a sense of control. Affirm pre-writing. Around 2 ½ to 3 ½ years of age, children will begin drawing squiggles meant to represent words. These drawings are a child's first steps toward writing. As they grow, the squiggles will become more complex. A child may begin to vary short and long squiggles or draw letter-like shapes mixed up with real letters. These drawings are an exciting sign that a child understands that words can be written to communicate meaning. Children are likely to tell you that certain squiggles "mean" something, or ask you to read them aloud. Affirm the meaning of the squiggles that are read to you, and ask for help reading the others. Let children use the texts they produce. Bring them to the post office to mail their "letters" (with an accompanying note) to relatives, Santa, or themselves. Display and save their drawings. Putting children's art up is a way of letting them know their work is interesting and important. Rather than praising every individual drawing, display it. You do not have to put up every piece of art: ask each child what they would like displayed, or create a rotating "gallery" that changes weekly or monthly. Keep a portfolio of each child's drawings so they can observe their process. It is more important that a child's practice is affirmed than that their art products are displayed. Displaying final products is no replacement for encouraging the development of their drawing. Teach your child to practice observation. Around the age of 5, you can start teaching observational drawing. This involves teaching children how to draw from the appearance of things, rather than their knowledge or imagination of them. To begin training them in observation, teach them to think of their drawings as practice. Say you are learning a new kind of drawing that takes lots of practice, and that they can practice as much as they want. Provide pencils and multiple pieces of paper, and gently discourage eraser use. Say they can start a drawing as many times as they want, and erase false lines when they are done. Do not force observational drawing on a child. Pushing a child to a new stage of drawing might discourage or stunt their learning. Affirm other kinds of drawings as well: storytelling and imagination based drawings, abstract or emotional drawings. Train them to draw new objects. Around age 5 or 6, children develop schema, or ways of drawing things. Instead of teaching them to observe things they have "already learned" how to draw, like houses, a pet, or trees, let them pick something they have never drawn before. This will prevent them from reverting to learned habits, but will not frustrate them by requiring them to "unlearn" something they feel they have mastered. Practice observing shapes. Explain that the child will be drawing an object from one side. Have the child sit where they will be when they draw, and trace your finger around the edges of the object as they are visible to the child. Then, have the child trace the edges. Next, ask the child to trace the shape in the air. They can do this with their finger and with their pencil. Draw without looking down. Encourage children to draw with their eyes on the object they are drawing. Try putting a square of paper on their pencil, above the spot they grip, so that they cannot see the line they make. Have them draw practice lines first. Have them practice drawing each part of the shape separately. After they have practiced the lines, let them draw the whole shape. Keep the page of practice lines nearby for further practice or reference. Have children practice drawing without ever looking down. Have children draw and only look down when they have finished drawing a line. Let them check on their progress, but encourage them to look down as little as possible. Coach by observing and questioning. As you would for a younger child, ask open-ended questions, but ask them about what they see rather than what they imagine. Ask "which part of the object is lighter? Which is darker?" "where does the line bend?" Compliment lines and angles they depicted correctly, and encourage them to find more details. Say "I see you drew a strong curving stem for the flower, and you shaded a texture into the dirt. Now, do you see any smaller parts at the end of the stem? Where do they start and stop?" Avoid showing your own drawings of an object, or drawing on a child's paper. Children are hardwired to learn by imitation, but this is not helpful for learning drawing. Focus on one medium at a time. Offer children the chance to practice with different media. Children between 5-8 may be open to drawing with pencils, which will allow them to focus on shading and contour. Show children different materials and allow them to experiment. Suggest phases: first we will draw with a pencil, then with watercolors. Make a book. Children between 5 and 8 enjoy making up stories to go with their drawings. They may be interested in drawing sequences to tell a longer story. Encourage children to draw and write short books. Help them bind the books together with staples or needle and thread. Once the book has been "published," put it on the bookshelf with the rest of their books. Focus on spatial issues. Pre-teen children will be especially interested in depicting perspective, foreshortening, and other spatial information. They will begin to draw horizon lines, overlapping objects, and exacting detail. Assign them spatial sequences, such as drawing an object from three different angles. Arrange neutral-colored geometric shapes near one another so they can practice shading. Let them arrange objects in piles and draw them. Teach proportion through portraiture. Basic anatomical proportion is one of the hardest things to learn. People tend to see the head as bigger than it is, the eyes as being bigger and higher in the face. Teach children basic anatomical proportions of the face, then give them mirrors and have them draw themselves. Let them take turns posing for one another, and have them draw quick sketches. Anticipate the crisis of confidence. Around age 9, children have a strong desire to draw realistically. They may become frustrated by drawings that do not look "right." They may decide they are a bad artist. To head off this crisis of confidence, make it clear to them that drawing is a skill that takes practice. Tell them that when they are frustrated it is because they are moving up a level. If they think they are a bad artist, that is because they have learned to see things they couldn't see before. Children around age 11 may wish to give up on drawing. Teaching them age-appropriate skills and encouraging them to try new methods will help them stay motivated. Enlarge the child's concept of art. One way to head off the decline of a child's artistic practice is to teach them other forms. Drawing abstractions, comics, or design can rekindle the confidence of a child who is stuck on realism. Set them observation challenges. Children who have been observing shapes and attempting to draw realistically for a while are ready to unlearn some of the things they have learned, so long as they are not shamed for wrong answers. Bring them to a tree, or pass around pieces of wood, and explain that they are going to observe all the colors in the bark. Set them the challenge of drawing a tree without using the color brown, but rather by blending different colored markers to get a real woody color.
Make art part of the routine. Don't teach. Make observations. Ask open-ended questions. Make art part of emotional processing. Affirm pre-writing. Display and save their drawings. Teach your child to practice observation. Train them to draw new objects. Practice observing shapes. Draw without looking down. Coach by observing and questioning. Focus on one medium at a time. Make a book. Focus on spatial issues. Teach proportion through portraiture. Anticipate the crisis of confidence. Set them observation challenges.
https://www.wikihow.com/Decorate-an-Unfinished-Wooden-Box
How to Decorate an Unfinished Wooden Box
There are lots of different ways you can decorate an unfinished wooden box. One thing you can try is painting the box. Just sand the box a bit so the paint sticks, then apply a few coats of acrylic paint. Use a paint marker to draw intricate designs on top of the paint if you'd like. Another option is to decoupage your wooden box. Print the image you want to attach to the box, then apply a layer of decoupage glue where you want the image to go. Press the image into the glue, brush another layer of glue over it, and let it dry for 1 day. You can add as many images as you'd like.
Remove the hinges and clasp if you don’t want to paint them. Use a screwdriver that's small enough to fit in the screws holding the metal pieces in place. Turn the screws counterclockwise until they're loose and pull them out of the box. Set the screws in a small dish so you don't misplace or lose them while you're working. You do not have to remove the hinges and clasp from the box if you want to paint them the same color as the wood. If your box doesn't have any hinges or clasps, you may skip this step. Smooth the surface of the box with 180–220-grit sandpaper. Fold a piece of 180- or 220-grit sandpaper in half so it's easier to hold and rub it over the surfaces of the box. Use small circular motions across the flat surfaces and apply firm pressure to smooth out any raised areas so the paint can adhere to the wood easier. Blow any sawdust off the wood's surface as you work so you see the areas that you already smoothed out. Be careful as you work around the corners or edges since you could make them rounded and affect how well the box closes. Avoid using lower grit sandpaper since you could leave scratches or marks on the surface that become more noticeable after you paint the box. Choose and mix the paint color you want to use for your box. Opt for an acrylic paint if you want the box to have a semi-glossy appearance. If you'd rather have a matte finish, select a farmhouse paint, which is a type of chalk paint. Open the paint and stir it thoroughly to ensure the color spreads through it evenly. You can buy farmhouse or acrylic paints from your local craft store. Avoid using oil paints since they take a long time to dry. Apply a thin coat of paint to the outside of the box and let it dry for 15–20 minutes. Put a thin layer of paint on the end of a natural-bristle or foam paintbrush and spread it evenly over the wood. Work on the outside surfaces of the box first, using long, straight strokes so the brush lines aren't as visible while you're working. After painting the exterior of the box, let it dry for 15–20 minutes. You do not have to use a primer on the box before you start painting it. Paint 1–2 more coats on the box if you want a more solid color. Paint the next coat of paint in the opposite direction as the first one to help hide the brush strokes more. Make sure each layer has the same thickness so it dries evenly. Allow each coat of paint to dry for at least 15–20 minutes before you apply the next one. For example, if you painted horizontally across the box for the first coat, then paint them vertically on the second coat. Additional layers of paint will make the color stand out more and ensure the wood grain doesn't show through to the final piece. Brush paint on the inside of the box if you don’t want to leave it unfinished. If you took off the hinges and clasp, set the lid upside-down while you're working. Otherwise, leave the box open on the hinges. Paint around each of the edges and the interior of the box with a thin layer of acrylic or farmhouse paint. Allow the coat to dry for at least 15–20 minutes before applying the next coat. Use 2–3 coats total on the inside of the box. You do not need to paint the inside of the box if you don't want to. Try using a different color of paint if you want the inside of the box to add an accent. For example, you may paint the outside of the box white and the interior a metallic gold color. Use a paint marker if you want to draw intricate designs. Shake the paint marker thoroughly so the paint evenly spreads inside. Remove the cap from the marker and draw any designs you want. You may try writing names, making letters, or adding detailed line work as decoration. Make sure to put the cap back on the marker when you're finished using it so it doesn't dry out. You can buy paint markers from your local craft store. Experiment using the paint markers on a scrap piece of wood or paper before using them on your box to ensure they're the color you want. Distress the edges of the box with sandpaper if you want a rustic look. Use a piece of 180- or 220-grit sandpaper and apply light pressure around the sharp edges of the box to lift up the paint. Press slightly harder if you want to remove more paint and expose some of the natural wood underneath it. Try to focus around areas that would naturally distress over time, such as around the hinges or clasp. You do not have to distress the wood if you want your painted box to have a clean, finished look. Apply 2 coats of varnish to protect the painted surface. Stir the varnish slowly so it doesn't develop any bubbles before using it. Dip the ends of a natural bristle paintbrush in the varnish and pull it in long, straight lines across the surfaces of the box. Drag the tip of the brush over the areas you've gone over to help smooth it out. Allow the varnish to dry for about 4 hours until it's no longer tacky. Then apply a second coat. If there are bumps or uneven surfaces, lightly sand the varnish smooth with 220-grit sandpaper. You can choose glossy or matte varnish depending on how much you want the box to shine. Varnish can create harmful fumes, so be sure to work in a well-ventilated area to avoid any irritation. Paint a layer of acrylic paint on the box if you don’t want visible wood grain. You can use any color of acrylic paint you want as the undercoat for your box. Dip a natural-bristle or foam brush in the paint and start painting the exterior of the box in long, straight strokes. Allow the outside of the box to dry for 15–20 minutes before painting the inside of the box. You can choose to leave the box unpainted if you want. You do not need to prime the box before you paint it. Avoid applying thick layers of paint since they will dry unevenly and may affect the color of the box. Sand the paint smooth with a piece of 180-grit sandpaper. Only apply light pressure as you go over the surface of the box with the sandpaper to get rid of any raised areas of paint. Be careful not to press too hard, or else you may expose the wood underneath the paint. Work in small circular motions so you don't leave any noticeable scratch marks on the surface. Frequently blow the dust off of the box so you can see where you've already worked. Avoid using sandpaper with a lower grit since it will leave scratches in the paint that could affect how the decoupage adheres to the surface. Print the image you want to attach to the box. Resize the image in editing software so it's the same size as the final design you want to attach on to the box. Preview the image before printing it out to ensure it doesn't get cut off around the edges. Turn the image settings to the highest quality before clicking the Print button. If you don't have access to a printer, try going to a library or local print shop to print the image for you. Apply a layer of decoupage glue on the box where you want your image. Dip a foam brush into the decoupage glue and wipe off any excess that's dripping off. Paint a thin layer of the glue on the surface of the box where you want to attach the image. Make sure the glue doesn't have any bubbles or raised areas that may affect how the image lays on the box. You can buy decoupage glue from your local craft store or online. Decoupage glue will start to dry within an hour, so be sure to work quickly as soon as you apply it. Lay the printed image flat on the box. Carefully set the image down on the wood and press it down firmly. Push out any bubbles or wrinkles from the center toward the edges of the image with your fingers to smooth it out. Use gentle pressure so you don't rip the paper, or else you'll have to start over. Make sure the image you're using doesn't have any wrinkles or creases, or else it may not lie properly on the wood. Brush the decoupage glue over the image and let it dry for 1 day. Dip your brush in the decoupage glue again and wipe off any excess. Work from the center of the image toward the edges so you apply a thin layer across the entire surface. Use gentle pressure so you don't damage the image or rip the paper. Let the decoupage glue set completely for 24 hours. Decoupage glue dries clear so you'll still be able to see the image when you're finished. Carefully wipe off any excess decoupage glue with a paper towel if there are still large drops left on the box. Rub away any edges around the image with a damp sponge. Wet a sponge in warm water and wring it out completely so it doesn't drip. Gently rub around any exposed edges of the paper that aren't part of the design. Wipe away any balled-up paper that forms around the edges so only the parts of your design are left attached to the box. You can also try using 220-grit sandpaper, but you may also scratch off some of the paint from the box. Spread a layer of acrylic varnish on the box to seal it. Get a glossy or matte finish varnish and mix it slowly with a stir stick. Dip the tip of a natural-bristle brush into the varnish and wipe off any excess drops. Pull the brush gently over the wood in long straight strokes to apply a thin layer of the varnish. Allow the varnish to dry for at least 4 hours so it has time to set. Work in a well-ventilated area while working with varnish since it may create harmful fumes that cause irritation. Print out the design you want to add onto the box. Resize the design on your computer with editing software so it's as large as you want the final image to appear on the box. Use the Print Preview function to make sure the design doesn't get cut off when you print it. Set it to the highest quality image before printing it out for your design. You may also draw your design by hand if you don't want to print one out. If you don't have access to a printer, check for local print shops or libraries to see if you can print your design there. Place a piece of carbon paper between the printed design and the box. Set the layer of carbon paper on your box where you want to engrave your design. Make sure the darker side of the carbon paper touches the wood, or else the image won't transfer correctly. Put your design face-up on top of the carbon paper and tape it to the box so it doesn't move or shift around while you're working. Carbon paper has a dark layer of carbon on one side, so when you write or draw something on the light side, the image will transfer onto the surface underneath it. You can buy carbon paper from your local hardware store or online. Trace around the outline of your design with a pencil. Apply firm pressure with a pencil around the outline of your design. Make sure you go around the entire outline, or the design won't transfer onto the box. Lift up a corner of the paper while you're working to check if you're able to see the lines on the wood. If not, tape the paper back down and press harder with your pencil. You may also use a pen or any other sharp writing instrument. Be careful not to rip through the paper since you could damage the wood. Carve around the outlines with a Dremel rotary tool. Use the cone-shaped attachment in the Dremel tool so you have the most control while you're working. Hold the tool like a pencil before turning it on so it comes up to full speed. Press the tip into the wood and follow along with your outline. Lift the tool up frequently and blow away any sawdust so you can see where you're working. Keep working around the outline until you've carved out the entire outline. Dremel rotary tools have small spinning heads that make them easy to work with for carving designs into wood. You can buy them from your local hardware store. You may also hold the tool sideways so the wider end presses against the wood if you want to make larger recessed areas in the wood. You can carve into the wood as deep as you want, but be careful not to punch through to the inside of the box. Never touch the rotating head while the Dremel tool is on since you could seriously injure yourself. Sand any rough edges with 180-grit sandpaper. Go around your design and apply light pressure with the sandpaper to remove any raised or rough areas. Work in short back and forth motions so you don't ruin the carved design. Blow away the sawdust while you're working so you can clearly see which areas you've already sanded. If there are still rough edges, try using 220-grit sandpaper to smooth it out more. Rub wood stain onto the box with a rag or shop cloth. Choose the color stain you want for your box, and dip the end of a rag or shop cloth in it. Rub the stain onto the wood following the direction of the grain so it absorbs the best. Keep applying the stain until you coat the entire surface of the wood so it has a uniform color. Allow the stain to dry for about 4 hours. The stain will usually look darker in engraved areas, which will help your design look more prominent. Seal the box with polyurethane wood finish to seal the stain. Mix the wood finish with a stir stick slowly so it doesn't form any bubbles. Dip the end of a natural-bristle brush into the finish and wipe off any excess. Use long, straight strokes across the surface of the wood, making sure to apply a thin and even layer. Smooth out the finish with the tips of the bristles before letting it dry for 4 hours. You can apply a second layer of wood finish if you want additional protection. Wood finish creates harmful fumes, so work in a well-ventilated area while using it.
Remove the hinges and clasp if you don’t want to paint them. Smooth the surface of the box with 180–220-grit sandpaper. Choose and mix the paint color you want to use for your box. Apply a thin coat of paint to the outside of the box and let it dry for 15–20 minutes. Paint 1–2 more coats on the box if you want a more solid color. Brush paint on the inside of the box if you don’t want to leave it unfinished. Use a paint marker if you want to draw intricate designs. Distress the edges of the box with sandpaper if you want a rustic look. Apply 2 coats of varnish to protect the painted surface. Paint a layer of acrylic paint on the box if you don’t want visible wood grain. Sand the paint smooth with a piece of 180-grit sandpaper. Print the image you want to attach to the box. Apply a layer of decoupage glue on the box where you want your image. Lay the printed image flat on the box. Brush the decoupage glue over the image and let it dry for 1 day. Rub away any edges around the image with a damp sponge. Spread a layer of acrylic varnish on the box to seal it. Print out the design you want to add onto the box. Place a piece of carbon paper between the printed design and the box. Trace around the outline of your design with a pencil. Carve around the outlines with a Dremel rotary tool. Sand any rough edges with 180-grit sandpaper. Rub wood stain onto the box with a rag or shop cloth. Seal the box with polyurethane wood finish to seal the stain.
https://www.wikihow.com/Clean-Cat-Urine
How to Clean Cat Urine
To clean cat urine, start by blotting up as much of the urine as possible with paper towels. If the urine is dry, pour some cold water over it first. Avoid rubbing the stain, which will cause it to sink into the surface it's on. Once you've blotted up as much of the urine as you can, spray the stain with a mixture of white vinegar, baking soda, liquid dish soap, and hydrogen peroxide. Let the mixture dry on the stain and then vacuum over the area.
Locate the source of the odor. It's easiest to clean fresh stains that are still damp, since you can lift much of the urine from the affected spot. However, you may also come across dried stains. In these cases, the same procedures should be followed, even though the urine has had more time to break down and soak into the surface. The smell will usually lead you directly to the area where your cat has urinated, though you might have to feel around with your hands for a wet spot if it is on carpet or cloth-covered furniture, or a sticky spot if it has dried on tile, linoleum or hardwood floors. You can also try using a black fluorescent light. These lights will show stains on furniture, walls, or carpet as yellow spots. You can purchase a black light rather inexpensively from pet stores or online. Wipe up and blot. Using paper towels, blot up as much of the urine as possible if the surface is fabric or carpet. With these surfaces, there is a danger of the urine soaking into the fibers of the material. Use a gentle dabbing motion to blot up the urine. If you're concerned about using a lot of paper towels for environmental reasons, use a cloth towel or rag or even old clothes that can be thrown away. You can also use a wet vacuum to "suck up" the urine if you have one on hand. This will lift more of the cat urine than blotting. Do not use a steam cleaner as at this point in the cleaning process the heat can cause the odor to last much longer and be more difficult to remove. Avoid rubbing in the stain. Scrubbing away at the stain at this stage will only cause it to sink in deeper. If the stain is already dry, pour cold water on the stain, and blot. Stand on the wet spot if it is on a carpet. Remember to wear shoes. This will help to bring up the stain from the surface. Treat the soiled area with a stain remover. You can either use a commercial product or make your own stain-removing solution using common household products. See below for instructions for both cleaners. Purchase a commercial product. Look in particular for an enzymatic cleaner. Enzymatic cleaners are specifically designed for cleaning urine-soiled areas. These types of cleaners break down the enzymes in the cat urine and neutralize the odor. They can usually be purchased at any pet store. Well-known brands include Knock Out, Urine Off, and Anti-Icky Poo. Enzymatic cleaners break down the uric acid in cat urine into carbon dioxide and ammonia. These are both gasses that will then easily evaporate and thereby neutralize the odor. These cleaners work on both fresh and old urine stains. Read the instructions. Some cleaners may have their own specific instructions for use so make sure to go over these carefully before applying the cleaner to the soiled area. Always follow any instructions that come with the specific cleaner you have purchased. Failure to follow the proper instructions could result in permanent damage to your furniture or surface. Do a test patch. Always test out the product on a small, out-of-sight area to see whether the product results in any damage or discoloration to the area. If you notice anything unusual, stop using the product. Either purchase a different commercial product or try the homemade solution below. If you don't see anything, then go ahead and apply the product to the soiled area. Soak the affected area with the enzyme cleaner. Let the cleaner sit for 10-15 minutes so it can soak into the stain. Then blot up as much of the cleaner as you can using paper towel or a rag. Let the affected area air dry. This is very important because the cleaner needs this time to effectively break down the uric acid salts and then allow the gasses to evaporate. Close off the affected area. Cats are naturally attracted by the enzymes in urine and will be drawn to urinate in areas that have previously been urinated in. Cover the area loosely with something like aluminum foil or an upside-down laundry basket. This will not only keep the cat from attempting to pee in the same spot while the cleaner does its job but also keep any members of the household from stepping on the area. Repeat the process as needed until the stain and smell subside. Be aware that if you are dealing with an old stain, you may need to apply the enzymatic cleaner two or three times (and being sure to let it completely dry between applications) in order to fully get rid of the stain. Gather the ingredients to make a homemade cleaner. While enzymatic cleaners are ideal, you can substitute a homemade cleaner that uses white vinegar, baking soda, liquid dish detergent, and 3% hydrogen peroxide. Vinegar helps to kill any bacteria and neutralize the odor. This mixture works well for treating both old and new stains. Mix a two-parts water and one-part vinegar solution. Pour this mixture over the stain and soak for about 3 to 5 minutes. Then blot the area to soak up the excess liquid. Note that vinegar should not be used on marble or stone surfaces. Sprinkle baking soda over the affected area. Be generous in your application of the baking soda. It helps to draw out the urine. Mix 3% percent hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of dish detergent. Sprinkle this solution over the baking soda. Scrub this solution into the soiled area with a cloth. Rinse the cloth several times as needed. Scrub in several different directions to make sure the solution is thoroughly penetrating the soiled area. Blot the area again. Let the stain dry. Once the spot is good and dry, vacuum up the excess baking soda. If the surface of the affected area feels hardened or crunchy, try rinsing the area with some warm water and letting it air dry. Close off the affected area. Once you have cleaned the soiled area and are giving it time to dry, close off the area to prevent your cat from having access to it. This will give you time to be sure that the stain and its odor have been eliminated. Then you can open the area again. Repeat these steps as needed if the urine stain is tough. Remember to keep your eye on your cat and your nose attuned to any smells of urine.
Locate the source of the odor. Wipe up and blot. Avoid rubbing in the stain. Stand on the wet spot if it is on a carpet. Treat the soiled area with a stain remover. Purchase a commercial product. Read the instructions. Do a test patch. Soak the affected area with the enzyme cleaner. Let the affected area air dry. Repeat the process as needed until the stain and smell subside. Gather the ingredients to make a homemade cleaner. Mix a two-parts water and one-part vinegar solution. Sprinkle baking soda over the affected area. Mix 3% percent hydrogen peroxide with 1 teaspoon of dish detergent. Let the stain dry. Close off the affected area. Repeat these steps as needed if the urine stain is tough.
https://www.wikihow.com/Freeze-Blackberries
How to Freeze Blackberries
To freeze blackberries, start by washing them in a colander and removing any damaged berries. Next, spread your blackberries out on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Then, place the tray flat into the freezer so the berries don't roll to one side, and leave them to freeze overnight. Once they're frozen solid, transfer them to a freezer bag and remove as much air from the bag as possible before sealing it. Afterwards, store your blackberries in the freezer for up to 6 months.
Wash the berries gently. When you've picked (or bought) a selection of ripe, juicy blackberries, give them a gentle (but thorough) washing. Pour the berries into a colander and run cool water over them while you gently shake them or sift through them with your fingers. Allow to drain well and gently pat dry with a soft towel to remove excess moisture. As you wash and dry your berries, take the opportunity to remove any rotten, under-ripe, or damaged berries. You'll also want to remove any leaf litter, dirt, or other debris. Spread the blackberries on a baking tray or sheet. Line a metal pan or tray with parchment paper and spread your blackberries out on it so that none are touching each other. Do not forget the parchment paper -- without it, the berries will freeze to the pan and can break up when you try to remove them. If you have too many blackberries to give each their own space on your baking tray, it's alright to simply pour them all over the tray. However, if you want separate, individual blackberries later, you'll have to break up the frozen block of berries that you'll get from this method. If you've got lots of berries that you want to keep separate, an even better idea is to lay down a second layer of parchment paper over the top of your first layer of berries to double your working space. Place the blackberries into the freezer. Set your tray on a level surface in your freezer (so that your berries don't roll to one side of the tray) and allow your berries to freeze completely. You may want to leave your blackberries in the freezer overnight to ensure that they're completely frozen through. If you do this, don't forget about them — left uncovered in the freezer, berries can easily develop freezer burn within a few days. Transfer berries into a freezer-proof bag. When your berries are frozen solid, pour them into a plastic freezer bag. Squeeze as much air as you can out of the bag, then seal it and return it to the freezer. The thicker the plastic and the less air in the bag, the better — thin bags and air pockets can both contribute to freezer burn. If you own a vacuum-sealing device (like, for instance, the FoodSaver), use it here to remove the air from your bag for the absolute best possible protection against freezer burn. Alternatively, if you're not worried about your berries freezing together, you can skip the baking sheet altogether and simply place the washed and dried berries into a freezer bag directly. If you do this, the berries will freeze together into a large block, which can hurt their visual presentation, but shouldn't effect their taste. Freeze for up to six months. Berries frozen this way are good for at least six months, though some sources recommend using them up to eight months after the date of freezing. The frozen berries can be used in cooking and baking recipes (like blackberry pie , for example) and can even be enjoyed as a semi-thawed dessert on their own or with a sprinkling of sugar. As a general rule, you shouldn't thaw berries before using them in baking recipes, as this can throw off their moisture content. For more information on using frozen berries, see the corresponding section below. Rinse and dry the berries as normal. Sweetening your blackberries before freezing them helps keep the berries' natural color and texture intact through the freezing process. It also makes the berries last longer in the freezer. Freezing sweetened berries requires the same washing process as for unsweetened berries: gently rinse and drain the berries, then allow to air dry or gently pat with a soft towel to remove any moisture. As above, you'll also want to remove any unripe or overripe berries before proceeding, as well as any leaf matter or debris. Mix with sugar. Next, add your berries to a large mixing bowl and add about 1/2 to 3/4 cups sugar for every quart of berries (as a reminder, one quart is equal to four cups). Mix the berries and sugar thoroughly, but very gently — your goal is to coat the berries with sugar, not to mash them into a jam or paste. The sugar should combine with the natural moisture of the berries (along with the juice of any berries that do break) to form a syrupy mixture that should cover the berries. Pack the berries into bags or airtight containers. Next, pour the berries into seal-able, airtight plastic containers (like, for instance, Tupperware. Try to fill the containers nearly to their tops — leaving about ⁄ 2 inch (1.3 cm) of head space or less is ideal. The less air remaining in the container, the better, but resist the urge to force the berries into a container that's too small for them, as this can crush the berries. You can also use plastic freezer bags as described above, though, with sweetened berries, this can become somewhat messy. There's no need to freeze sweetened blackberries separately, since the sugar helps protect their appearance and texture from the effects of freezing. However, if you especially want separately-frozen berries, you can still use the baking sheet method described above without harming the berries. Freeze for up to nine months. Sweetened blackberries should last for a minimum of nine months, though some sources say that they can last up to a full year. The sweetened berries can be used like unsweetened berries in a wide variety of baking recipes or enjoyed on their own. However, if using the berries in baking recipes, it's important to remember to take the sugar you added to the berries into account and adjust your recipe accordingly. Because of this point, you may find that it's a wise idea to label your freezing container with a volume of berries in the container and the amount of sugar added along with the date of freezing. Don't thaw berries for most baking recipes. As noted above, when you use frozen berries in baking recipes, you'll almost never want to thaw them before adding them to the recipe. Doing this creates extra moisture in the recipe and can lead to a final product that's mushy or watery. Some people find that thawing their berries about halfway in the microwave before baking produces great-tasting results without adding too much moisture. If you want to try this, note that the exact amount of time you'll need to keep your berries in the microwave for will vary based on the number of berries you have and the power of your microwave. Roll frozen berries in flour to prevent bleeding. Sometimes, when using frozen berries in baking recipes, the berries can "bleed", producing discolorations throughout the batter. Though this won't effect their taste, it can make the finished products a little less appealing to look at. To minimize the effects of bleeding, try gently rolling your frozen berries in flower before adding them to your baking recipe. This helps contain the berries' moisture, minimizing bleeding. Thaw berries for liquid recipes. There are some instances where you'll want to thaw your berries before using them in your recipe. Usually, these are cases where the extra moisture that comes from thawing is a benefit to the dish, like blackberry sauces and toppings for ice cream, shortcake, and so on. To quickly thaw blackberries, place them in an airtight plastic bag (or keep them in their original freezer bag) and submerge them in cold water for about 10-15 minutes. To keep the bag of blackberries from floating and thawing unevenly, you may want to weigh it down with a heavy dish or bowl. Thaw berries intended for raw consumption. Another situation in which you'll want to thaw your blackberries is if you intend to eat them raw. Though frozen berries make a great summertime treat, sometimes there's nothing like ordinary berries. For raw berries, you may want to use the quick thawing method above, or simply leave them on the kitchen counter overnight. Dumping your berries in a container of cool, clean water after thawing them to wash away any frost or debris leftover from freezing. At this point, you may also want to sift through your berries and remove any crushed or damaged ones. Don't be put off by the soft, juicy appearance of thawed blackberries. Though they may not look as pristine as fresh berries, if they were fresh when they were frozen, they're safe to eat.
Wash the berries gently. Spread the blackberries on a baking tray or sheet. Place the blackberries into the freezer. Transfer berries into a freezer-proof bag. Freeze for up to six months. Rinse and dry the berries as normal. Mix with sugar. Pack the berries into bags or airtight containers. Freeze for up to nine months. Don't thaw berries for most baking recipes. Roll frozen berries in flour to prevent bleeding. Thaw berries for liquid recipes. Thaw berries intended for raw consumption.
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Sweat-Stains-Out-of-Hats
How to Get Sweat Stains Out of Hats
The easiest way to get sweat stains out of a hat is to clean it in the dishwasher. Place the hat on the top rack and use a dishwashing detergent that doesn't contain bleaching agents. Run a cold-water cycle without heated drying that contains only the hat and no dishes. Then, remove the hat from the dishwasher, reshape it, and allow it air dry in front of a fan.
Find out if the fabric is colorfast. Before submerging the hat in water, you need to see if the dye will run. Dip a white cloth in warm water and rub it on a small, inconspicuous area of the hat. If the dye comes off on the rag, don't wash or submerge the hat. If it doesn't, the item is colorfast and can be washed. Buy a new hat instead of trying to wash one that isn't colorfast; the hat will likely be ruined if you do try to wash it. Fill a bucket with warm water and 1 US tbsp (15 ml) of laundry detergent. Put the soap in the bottom of the bucket or sink and allow it to fill up with warm water. Agitate the water to make bubbles. Avoid using a detergent containing bleach or a bleach alternative, which could fade the color of the hat. Spray a stain treatment product on the hat to loosen sweat and grime. Before placing the hat in the water, you should pre-treat the stain. Spray a stain treatment product directly onto the fabric, concentrating on the areas that soak up the most sweat, like the interior band. Let the hat soak in the soapy water for up to 4 hours. Dip the hat in the sink or bucket and swirl it around several times. Then, let it soak in the water for a few hours to allow the soap to break down the sweat and oil in the fabric. You can stir the water or swirl the hat around every hour or so, if desired. Rinse the hat thoroughly with cold water. Remove the hat from the bucket or drain the water from the sink. Use cold, running water to rinse the sweat and soap from the hat. Continue rinsing until the water runs clear and there are no more bubbles. Gently squeeze out the excess water, taking care not to ruin the shape of the hat. Stuff the hat with a towel and allow it to air dry. Roll up a small towel and place it inside the hat. Reshape the bill, if applicable. Then, place the hat near a fan or open window so it gets as much air flow as possible. Let it dry fully before wearing it again, which could take up to 24 hours. Avoid letting the hat dry in direct sunlight, which could fade the color. Don't dry the hat in the clothes dryer either, which may shrink or damage the hat. Figure out what the hat is made from. Read the care label on the inside of the hat to find out what materials it's composed of. Alternatively, you could look up the information on the Internet or through the manufacturer's website. If it's made of jersey mesh, cotton twill, or a polyester blend, you can clean it in the dishwasher. If it's made of wool, however, you shouldn't use this method as the hat may shrink. If the hat has a brim made out of plastic, you can use the dishwasher. But, if the brim is made out of cardboard, you should spot-clean the hat instead to prevent water from damaging the brim. Put the hat on the top rack. It's important to place the hat on the top rack to keep it away from the heating element. If you put the hat on the bottom rack, it may become too hot and the fabric could shrink or the plastic brim could get warped. For best results, place a “cap washer” or “cap cage” underneath your baseball hat to help it keep its shape. You can find these online or at hat stores. Wash the hat or hats alone so the dirt and sweat doesn't seep out onto your dishes. Use a dishwashing detergent without bleaching agents. Read the package that your dishwashing detergent comes in. If you see bleaching agents, like chlorine, avoid using the detergent as it could alter the color of the hat. Use a gentle, all-natural detergent instead. Run the dishwasher using cold water on a cycle without heated drying. Avoid using a heavy cycle, such as one for pots and pans. Use the gentlest cycle available and make sure the “heated drying” option is off. Also, use cold water, rather than warm or hot, so as not to shrink the fabric or warp the plastic brim. Reshape the hat, if necessary, and let it air dry. After the cycle is complete, remove the hat from the dishwasher. Use your hands to carefully reshape the hat or brim, if necessary. Then, place it on a towel in front of a fan and let it air dry. This may take up to 24 hours, so plan to wear another hat in the meantime. Don't dry the hat in the clothes dryer or in direct sunlight, both of which could fade, warp, or otherwise ruin the hat. Check to see if the fabric is colorfast. Wet the corner of a clean, white cloth with water. Rub the wet cloth on an inconspicuous area of the hat, like the inside. If the dye doesn't come off onto the cloth, the fabric is colorfast and you can clean it. If the dye rubs off, you won't be able to wash it. If you do try to wash the hat, the color will bleed out and the hat will be ruined. If the hat is dirty but can't be washed, your best bet is to buy a new one. Pre-treat the stained areas, if necessary. If the hat is particularly dirty, you can spray a mild stain treatment product on the fabric to help loosen the sweat and grime. Make sure the product doesn't contain bleaching agents, like chlorine, which could fade the color. Make a solution of mild detergent or shampoo and cool water. Put a small amount of a mild laundry detergent into a bucket or bowl then fill it up with cool water. Alternatively, you could use a mild shampoo to help remove the sweat and body oil. Swirl your hand in the solution to disperse the soap and create bubbles. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and use it to scrub away the stain. The cloth doesn't need to be sopping wet, just put a little bit of the soap and water mixture on a small section. Use it to rub the stained areas of the hat to remove the dirt, sweat, and oil. Wet new areas of the cloth as necessary and scrub the fabric until you've removed all the stains. Use cool water to rinse the soap from the fabric and let it air dry. After you've removed all the stains, use a gentle stream of cool water to rinse out the hat. Try to avoid completely soaking or submerging it if the hat has a cardboard brim. Then, soak up the excess water by pressing a towel into the fabric. Use your hands to reshape the hat, if you need to. Allow the hat to fully air dry, and place it in front of a fan if possible. Don't dry the hat in direct sunlight or in a clothes dryer, as the fabric might fade or warp from the sun and/or heat. Make a paste from baking soda and warm water. Put 4 tablespoons (59.1 ml) (55.2 g) of baking soda in a bowl and add ⁄ 4 cup (59 ml) of warm water. Mix the ingredients together with a spoon until it forms a paste. Scrub the paste into the stain and let it sit for up to an hour. Use the spoon to apply the mixture to the stained area. Scrub it into the fabric with a clean toothbrush, then let it soak in for up to an hour. Rinse away the paste with cool water. After an hour has passed, run cool water over the areas you covered with the paste. Keep rinsing until all the baking soda is gone. Air dry the hat completely. Press a clean towel into the fabric to absorb excess water. Then, allow the hat to air dry completely before wearing it again. Placing it near an open window or a fan can speed up the process. Don't dry the hat in the clothes dryer or in direct sunlight, as the hat might get damaged by the heat and light.
Find out if the fabric is colorfast. Fill a bucket with warm water and 1 US tbsp (15 ml) of laundry detergent. Spray a stain treatment product on the hat to loosen sweat and grime. Let the hat soak in the soapy water for up to 4 hours. Rinse the hat thoroughly with cold water. Stuff the hat with a towel and allow it to air dry. Figure out what the hat is made from. Put the hat on the top rack. Use a dishwashing detergent without bleaching agents. Run the dishwasher using cold water on a cycle without heated drying. Reshape the hat, if necessary, and let it air dry. Check to see if the fabric is colorfast. Pre-treat the stained areas, if necessary. Make a solution of mild detergent or shampoo and cool water. Dip a clean cloth in the solution and use it to scrub away the stain. Use cool water to rinse the soap from the fabric and let it air dry. Make a paste from baking soda and warm water. Scrub the paste into the stain and let it sit for up to an hour. Rinse away the paste with cool water. Air dry the hat completely.
https://www.wikihow.com/Die-Peacefully
How to Die Peacefully
If you're looking for a way to die peacefully because you want to end your own life, stop and remember that you're not alone. Talk to a trusted friend or family member, or call your national suicide prevention hotline for immediate help, which is 1-800-273-TALK if you live in the U.S. If you're preparing to die peacefully because of something that's out of your control, know that it's completely up to you how you want to spend your last days. It may be really hard, but try to distract yourself when you're feeling down by focusing on the small things you love, like a beautiful sunset, a glass of wine, or your favorite book.
Live out your final days where you’re most comfortable, if possible. If you have the option, spend your last days at home, with family, or in a facility where you're comfortable. Talk to your medical team or your family about your options. Then, choose what's best for you. If you're in a hospital, ask your family and friends to bring items that comfort you, like photos, blankets, and pillows from home. Do the things you enjoy as often as you can. Spend your time doing what you want. When you have energy, use it to do something fun. If you're too tired, watch your favorite shows or read a book. For instance, you might play a board game with your sister when you feel energetic. Similarly, you might walk your dog. Listen to music to boost your mood. Music can raise your spirits and may even help you feel less pain. Choose the music that you like best or that reminds you of good times. Then, play music as often as possible to help you feel better. Consider getting a speech-activated device that will play the music you want on command. If you're not sure how to do this, ask a family member or friend to help you set one up. Rest often because you’ll likely tire easily. You probably get fatigued quickly, which is normal. Don't try to push yourself to do more than you can right now. Give yourself plenty of time to rest so that you can enjoy the time you have. For instance, it's okay to spend the majority of your day in either a recliner or your bed. Keep extra blankets near you in case you feel cold. You might have trouble adjusting to the temperature. When this happens, it's helpful to have extra blankets that you can throw on or take off as needed. Make sure you always have blankets nearby in case you feel cold. Don't use a heated blanket because it might get too hot or could burn you. If you have a caregiver, ask them to help you stay comfortable. Get help with your household chores so you don’t overexert yourself. Try not to worry about chores like cooking or cleaning. Instead, ask your caregiver, friends, or family to help you with things. It's best to spread out tasks to several people so that everything gets done. It's okay if some tasks are left undone. Right now, your comfort and rest are most important, so don't worry. Talk to your doctor about palliative care to manage your pain. You might already be getting palliative care, which is great! Palliative care helps manage your pain and other symptoms of your condition at every stage of treatment. If you aren't already getting palliative care, ask your doctor to refer you for it. You'll work with a doctor, nurses, and other healthcare providers to ease your pain and cope with other symptoms. Prepare an advance health care directive so your wishes are followed. Your advance health care directive is a written document that explains what type of end-of-life care you prefer. Include what treatments you want, whether or not you want life-saving measures taken, and what you want to happen if you become incapacitated. Give copies of your advance health care directive to your doctor, care team, and family members. Ask someone you trust to help you type up your advance health care directive. Then, they can help you get it notarized and, if necessary, reviewed by a lawyer. Ask your doctor to prescribe painkillers to help you be comfortable. You'll likely need prescription pain medication to ease your discomfort, so talk to your doctor. Then, follow their instructions for taking your medication. Generally, they'll direct you to take your medication at the same times each day to keep your pain in check. You'll likely need to take your pain medication before your pain gets bad again. It's easier to prevent pain than it is to make it go away. If your pain reliever stops working, talk to your doctor. They may provide you with something stronger, such as morphine. When you're managing end-of-life pain, you don't need to worry about getting addicted to painkillers. It's okay to take them as often as you doctor says is safe. Change positions often so you won’t get bed sores. You probably need to rest a lot right now, so lie down as often as necessary. To prevent bed sores, switch positions every 30 minutes to an hour. Additionally, use pillows and cushions to prop you up so you're comfortable. Ask for help if you have trouble shifting. It's normal to feel weak, and your caregiver, friends, and family will all be happy to help you. Ease breathing issues by sitting up and using a fan or humidifier. You may have trouble breathing, which can feel really uncomfortable. You might be able to breathe easier if you raise your upper body using a wedge or an adjustable bed. Additionally, open a window or use a fan to circulate the air. As another option, turn on a humidifier to make the air moist, which soothes your airways. The medical term for this is dyspnea. Your doctor might offer you pain relievers or oxygen to help you feel less discomfort if you're having trouble breathing. Ask for medication to control nausea or constipation if you need it. You might experience stomach issues like nausea or constipation, which is common. If this happens, don't feel pressured to eat unless you want to do so. Additionally, talk to your doctor about medications to help you feel better. Take your medication as directed. Your doctor might also give you advice to help you avoid nausea and constipation. Apply alcohol-free body lotion to prevent dry, irritated skin. Your skin can get really dry, which might become painful. In some cases, your skin might even crack. Fortunately, you can prevent this by using an alcohol-free body lotion at least once a day. Use your hand to apply it yourself or ask for help. Re-apply your lotion when your skin feels dry. For instance, you might need to put lotion on your hands after you wash them. Invite your friends and family to visit as often as they can. Being with your family and friends can improve your mood. However, they might not visit as often as you'd like because they're not sure what you want. Call, text, or message people to tell them you want visitors. Specify the best times to visit and ask them to come. Say, “I really want to see my family right now. Please visit me around dinner time so we can talk. Which days this week are you available?” It's okay if you want time alone to rest or think. Tell people you want space and ask them to leave you alone for awhile. Tell the people you care about how you feel. Sharing your feelings will help you feel more at peace. Additionally, it gives your family and friends great memories to cherish. Make a list of the people you want to talk to before you go. Then, start checking them off. For instance, tell family and friends how much you love them. Say, “Thank you,” to people you need to thank. Forgive people who hurt you in the past. Apologize for mistakes you made. Identify the relationships and experiences that gave your life meaning. Think about your life and your best memories. Talk to your friends and relatives about your experiences and what they meant to you. If you can, look at photos to help you remember what was important to you in life. This will help you realize how full and meaningful your life truly was, which can help you be at peace. Check items off your bucket list if you can. Identify activities or experiences that you can still enjoy in your final days. Then, reach out to friends and family to make these things happen. Don't stress about checking items off. Just enjoy the time you have by doing the things that are possible. For example, drive to the Grand Canyon, watch the sunset on the West Coast, or go on a cruise. Talk to someone you trust about how you feel if you’re upset. You probably have some fears or concerns that are bothering you, which is normal. Open up to a friend or family member about how you feel. Then, get their advice or ask them to just comfort you. You might say, “I'm worried about who will care for my dogs after I pass? Do you have any advice?” or “I'm afraid that I'll have to go back to the hospital. Is it okay if I just vent a little?” Work with a counselor or therapist if you’re struggling with acceptance. You might have trouble accepting your medical diagnosis or the idea of dying. This is totally okay, and a counselor can help. Look for a therapist who's experienced with end-of-life issues or ask your doctor for a referral. If you're getting palliative care, you might already have a therapist on your team. Talk to them if you need counseling. Your therapy appointments might be covered by insurance, so check your benefits. You might feel like there's no point in starting therapy right now, but your feelings are very important. Talking to a therapist could help make your last days more peaceful, so it's work reaching out. Ask your spiritual leader to visit you at least once a week. It's normal to question your faith or worry about the afterlife. Reach out to your spiritual or religious community to talk about the big questions and make peace with your faith. A spiritual leader can provide answers, fellowship, and comfort. Consider inviting more than 1 spiritual leader to visit you so you can see them more often. If you're estranged from your faith, ask about making amends and getting right according to your beliefs. Invite members of your spiritual community to come talk to you about your faith or to pray with you. Don't end your life prematurely. You might be in a lot of pain right now, but suicide isn't a solution. You may not be able to see your other options in this moment, but there is hope. Talk to someone you trust, check into a hospital, or call a suicide hotline for help. If you're thinking about suicide and need immediate help, please call the National Suicide Prevention Hotline at 1-800-273-TALK. If you're in a different country, please call your nation's suicide prevention hotline. Things will get better!
Live out your final days where you’re most comfortable, if possible. Do the things you enjoy as often as you can. Listen to music to boost your mood. Rest often because you’ll likely tire easily. Keep extra blankets near you in case you feel cold. Get help with your household chores so you don’t overexert yourself. Talk to your doctor about palliative care to manage your pain. Prepare an advance health care directive so your wishes are followed. Ask your doctor to prescribe painkillers to help you be comfortable. Change positions often so you won’t get bed sores. Ease breathing issues by sitting up and using a fan or humidifier. Ask for medication to control nausea or constipation if you need it. Apply alcohol-free body lotion to prevent dry, irritated skin. Invite your friends and family to visit as often as they can. Tell the people you care about how you feel. Identify the relationships and experiences that gave your life meaning. Check items off your bucket list if you can. Talk to someone you trust about how you feel if you’re upset. Work with a counselor or therapist if you’re struggling with acceptance. Ask your spiritual leader to visit you at least once a week. Don't end your life prematurely.
https://www.wikihow.com/Not-Be-Scared-when-Getting-Your-Ears-Pierced
How to Not Be Scared when Getting Your Ears Pierced
To not be scared when getting your ears pierced, try to remember that lots of people get their ears pierced, and some people don't even feel any pain. Instead of focusing on the potential pain, try to think about the earrings you'll get afterward and how good they'll look on you. Additionally, plan on doing something fun after you get your ears pierced, like shopping or going to your favorite restaurant, to give you something to look forward to. You should also ask a friend or family member to stay with you while you get your ears pierced so they can support you and help you feel less scared.
Prepare yourself mentally, the day before doing it, try to convince yourself that it will be painless and easy. Even though it may not be, try to set your mind so you'll think that way. Ease your mind. Think about what type of earrings you'll get instead of what comes after. Know that you'll have to take special care of your piecing after. Go right when the mall opens or closes. It's more likely that two people will be unoccupied to pierce your ears at the same time, so it'll be all over with at once. Take a stuffed animal or stress ball. Squeeze it hard! Bring a friend with you. For support, love, care, and compliments! Don't tense up when you know it's about to come. That only makes it hurt more. Think about something else other than the piercing. Don't look. If it helps, close your eyes. Mostly it's just a pinch with very little stinging afterward. Let yourself shop afterward, reward yourself with going through with it. Give yourself a gift card to your favorite store. Ask whoever is there with you if you can get a special treat afterward. Like some new earrings, but don't put them in until the 6 weeks are up because they will swell up otherwise, or close in. Or your favorite ice cream!
Prepare yourself mentally, the day before doing it, try to convince yourself that it will be painless and easy. Go right when the mall opens or closes. Take a stuffed animal or stress ball. Bring a friend with you. Don't tense up when you know it's about to come. Don't look. Let yourself shop afterward, reward yourself with going through with it. Ask whoever is there with you if you can get a special treat afterward.
https://www.wikihow.com/Apply-Plumber%27s-Putty
How to Apply Plumber's Putty
Plumber's putty is a great product for sealing projects and preventing water leaks. Before you use plumber's putty, clean the area with soapy water and dry it with a clean rag. Take out your putty and roll it in your palms to warm it up and make it more malleable. Then, stretch it into a skinny shape until it's long enough to cover the area you want to seal. Apply the putty in one layer, pressing down firmly, and don't leave any gaps. If you're sealing a sink drain, push the drain into its base on top of the putty and tighten the drain. Clean any excess putty off with a rag and throw it away.
Purchase plumbers putty at a home supply or hardware store. Most local or chain stores, like Home Depot, should carry plumbers putty. Different brands use slightly different ingredients. Putty marked as stain-free should be safe to use on any material. Ask someone in the store if you have specific questions about your project. Warm the putty in your hands until it is soft and malleable. When first out of the can, putty is usually cold and hard. Take a handful of it and roll it into a ball. Rub it between your palms quickly and firmly. Stop once you're able to pull and stretch the putty easily. Stretch putty into a long, skinny shape. Now that your putty is warm, stretch it until it is long enough to cover the area you need to apply it to. If long and skinny putty won't fit over your surface, mold it into a shape that will. Clean the surface you’ll put the putty on. Plumbers putty needs to be applied to a clean area. Wash the surface you'll be applying the putty to with soap and water. If you're applying the putty to an old fixture, go over it several times until it is free of any dirt. Dry the surface with a rag or towel. Plumbers putty will not stick well to a wet area. Make sure the towel or rag you use is clean so you don't get your surface dirty again while drying it. Disassemble parts if necessary. If you're using putty to fix a leak, you will need to take apart some parts to access the area where putty is needed. Usually, putty is used on toilets and drains. For toilets, loosen the bolts at the base and gently remove the bowl from the floor. For drains, undo the nuts under the sink and push up on the drain to remove it from the base of the sink. You can often find step-by-step disassembly guides online for different types and models of fixtures. Spread putty around the surface you need it on. In many cases, putty is put on a circular area, like the drain of a sink. Wrap the putty around the circle and make sure you don't leave any gaps. Do not wrap the putty into multiple layers. If you are not applying putty to a circular surface, still use just one layer and leave no gaps. Press the putty firmly into place. Use your fingertips to apply pressure and stop when the putty seems secure. It will be tightened into place even further later, but now you're making sure it will hold its position while you press into a drain fixture or anything else you need it for. Set fixture where it belongs and tighten into place. For sink drains, for instance, you will press the drain into the base of the sink and tighten it underneath using a bolt and channel locks. For toilet bowls, spread the putty around the base of the toilet, where it will touch the floor. Touch your fixture to make sure it isn't loose at all. Clean away excess putty. When setting a plumbing fixture in place, excess plumbers putty usually seeps out from the sides. Use any rag or towel you'd like to wipe up this excess putty and discard it. Wash area with soap and water. Now that you're done using the putty, you will want to make sure you leave a clean area behind. Scrub your work area with a soapy sponge to make sure there are no residual traces of the putty. Disassemble parts and apply new putty if you notice leaks. If you notice water seeping out from under your toilet or your drain, you may need new plumber's putty. If so, take apart your fixture, remove the existing putty thoroughly, and reapply new putty. If new plumber's putty does not fix the problem, investigate other sources for the leak, such as broken gaskets or seals.
Purchase plumbers putty at a home supply or hardware store. Warm the putty in your hands until it is soft and malleable. Stretch putty into a long, skinny shape. Clean the surface you’ll put the putty on. Dry the surface with a rag or towel. Disassemble parts if necessary. Spread putty around the surface you need it on. Press the putty firmly into place. Set fixture where it belongs and tighten into place. Clean away excess putty. Wash area with soap and water. Disassemble parts and apply new putty if you notice leaks.
https://www.wikihow.com/Get-Rid-of-Period-Cramps
How to Get Rid of Period Cramps
If you've already taken or you don't want to take a painkiller, you can help ease your menstrual cramps by eating a banana, fish, or other foods that are rich in potassium, but you should avoid caffeine, which can make cramps worse. Getting 30 minutes of brisk exercise such as walking or jogging can also help relieve cramps. If you're at home, take a warm Epsom salt bath or place hot water bottles on your stomach and lower back.
Eat a banana. Bananas contain potassium, which may reduce cramps, as cramps could be due to a potassium deficiency. Other foods that contain loads of potassium include: White beans, such as Adzuki, soy, or Lima beans Leafy greens, such as spinach or kale Dried fruits, such as apricots, prunes, or raisins Fish, such as salmon, halibut, and tuna Avoid caffeine as much as possible. Having too much caffeine can make your cramps worse. Some sources recommend avoiding foods and drinks that contain caffeine, such as coffee, teas, colas, etc before and during your period. Drink (decaffeinated) chamomile tea. A recent study done by the Imperial College of London found that drinking German chamomile tea (also called Matricaria recutita ) helped relieve pain caused by menstrual cramps. Chamomile contains glycine, an amino acid that can relieve muscle spasms. By relaxing the uterus, chamomile appears to be helpful in relieving cramps caused by periods. Try a sports drink. Although there is no scientific evidence to suggest that drinking a sports drink will help with period cramping, it can't hurt. Sports drinks contain electrolytes, which help regular cramping. Why might sports drinks be ineffective? Regular cramping may be caused from hyperactivity or a deficiency of essential nutrients such as potassium or magnesium. Period cramping, however, is caused by contractions of the uterus, which tries to expel the uterine lining and any eggs that went unfertilized during ovulation. Because period cramping isn't caused by the same thing as normal muscle cramping, sports drinks may be less effective than advertised. Take omega-3 fatty acids. Taking a daily fish-oil supplement — high in a healthy fat called omega-3 fatty acid — could help you reduce pain caused by menstrual cramping. One study found that women who took daily fish oil supplements had less pain associated with cramping than women who simply took a placebo. Try other beneficial supplements. Ask your doctor about supplements before you begin a serious change in your diet. Some supplements may interact adversely with one another or with medications that you may be taking. The following supplements may also be beneficial to your health and keep you from reeling with pain when your period does come: Calcium citrate, 500 - 1,000 mg daily. Calcium citrate helps by maintaining muscle tone. Vitamin D, 400 IU daily. Vitamin D helps your body process calcium as well as help fight inflammation. Vitamin E, 500 IU daily. Vitamin E may help reduce menstrual pain. Magnesium, 360 mg daily, for 3 days before menstruation starts. Magnesium helps reduce the prostaglandins , or chemicals released during menstruation that cause muscle contractions, involved in menstrual pain. Have 1 tsp (5 ml) of Blackstrap Molasses. Derived from the sugar refining process, blackstrap molasses is a nutrient-rich syrup. This grade of molasses boasts high amounts of calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, manganese, vitamin B6 and selenium. These nutrients reduce cramping by minimizing blood clots, relaxing the muscles and restoring the system's nutrient level. Elevate your legs. Keep your legs a foot or two above the rest of your body with pillows. This can force your uterine muscles to relax. Try acupuncture. In several studies, women who were treated with acupuncture reported less pain and needed less medication. Acupuncture works by balancing out the qi (or energy deficiencies) in the body. In the case of menstrual cramping, the qi imbalances are purportedly in the spleen and liver area. Place pressure on your stomach for 10 seconds. Gentle pressure is best, and repeat in 10-second intervals as needed. Your body will start to notice the sensation of the pressure instead of the sensation of pain caused by the menstrual cramping. More than just offering a distraction, the pressure could also soothe some of the pain. Massage your abdomen. Massage the front of the abdomen, working back to your lower back. Have a friend or a family member massage your lower back if possible. This will reduce a lot the pain for some time. Walk around. Walking is an effective and easy remedy for pain associated with menstrual cramping. For best results, walk briskly, and do this exercise for 30 minutes cycles at least three times a day. Walking will help get your beta-endorphins going, as well as reduce prostaglandins. Go jogging for a little bit. This will give you enough exercise to keep you in less pain. In lieu of exercise, you can try other forms of aerobic exercise. Again, shoot for 30 minutes of controlled, medium-intensity aerobic exercise, 3 times a week. Biking Swimming Dancing Sports, such as soccer or basketball, that involve running Do a few sit-ups. Any exercise may be beneficial, but sit-ups work your abdominal muscles especially, focusing attention away from cramping and toward the pleasant burn in your outer tummy. Exercise releases beta-endorphins in your body, which are internal opioids, or the morphine that your body produces all on its own. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your stomach. Alternate the hot water bottle by placing it on your lower back. (You may need to have two hot water bottles handy in order to do this. Take a warm bath. A warm bath is another form of heat treatment used to reduce the pain of cramping in women. Warm baths are believed to relax the muscles of the body, making the pain less noticeable. Try putting a cup or two of Epsom salts in the bath. Epsom salts are high in magnesium, a deficiency of which may cause cramping. Soak in the bath for at least 30 minutes. Try adding a cup of sea salt and a cup of baking soda to the water. This combination might further relax the muscles of the body. Soak in the bath for at least 30 minutes. Try a painkiller. Choose painkillers like ibuprofen, paracetamol or painkillers designed specially for period cramps. Just be sure to follow the directions on the bottle! Talk to your doctor about contraceptive pills. For severe pain associated with menstrual cramps, talk to your doctor about birth control. Taking birth control pills may reduce pain, bloating, and cramps associated with periods. If you have severe cramping and pain during your periods, talk to your doctor about the birth control options available to you. Use preventative care. Painful menstrual cramps may be prevented before they even start to bother you. Avoiding the following may help give you a break from period cramping before you even have to deal with it: Alcohol, tobacco, and other stimulants Stress Inactivity
Eat a banana. Avoid caffeine as much as possible. Drink (decaffeinated) chamomile tea. Try a sports drink. Take omega-3 fatty acids. Try other beneficial supplements. Have 1 tsp (5 ml) of Blackstrap Molasses. Elevate your legs. Try acupuncture. Place pressure on your stomach for 10 seconds. Massage your abdomen. Walk around. Go jogging for a little bit. Do a few sit-ups. Place a heating pad or hot water bottle on your stomach. Take a warm bath. Try a painkiller. Talk to your doctor about contraceptive pills. Use preventative care.
https://www.wikihow.com/Cut-Countertops
How to Cut Countertops
Cutting a countertop is relatively simple, but there are certain steps you'll need to take to avoid damaging it. Lay a strip of masking tape where you want to cut the countertop and draw your cut line on it with a pencil and ruler. If your countertop is laminate or wood, secure a piece of wood to the end with C-clamps for a saw guide. If it's made of stone, clamp it to your workbench on top of a layer of rigid foam. You should also make a 2-inch cut at the far end of your stone countertop so the off-cut will fall off cleanly instead of splintering. Use a circular saw with a blade 1/8-inch deeper than your countertop to ensure it cuts through. Make sure your blade's up to full speed before you start cutting and move the blade slowly.Once you've finished, sand the cut edge of your surface with fine-grit sandpaper to make it nice and smooth.
Measure the area of the counter space you need to cut a top for. Measure the length and width of the space with a measuring tape. Use these numbers to determine how big of a piece of laminate countertop you need to purchase to cut to size. Laminate countertops come in a standard width of 25 in (64 cm). You can get pieces of different lengths that you can cut down to the exact size you need. This method will work for cutting all types of laminate countertops, including Formica. You can also use the same method to cut solid wood countertops, such as butcher block countertops. Buy a piece of laminate countertop that will cover the counter area. Laminate countertop comes in standard sizes from 4–12 ft (1.2–3.7 m) long. They come in lengths of 2 ft (0.61 m) intervals. Get some matching laminate strips if there will be any exposed edges of the countertop after you cut it. You can buy both the countertop and matching laminate strips at a home improvement center or kitchen showroom. Put the countertop on a workbench with the edge you will cut hanging off. Place the piece of stock laminate countertop that you purchased on a stable workbench so it won't move while you cut it. Make sure to leave the part you will be cutting off hanging off the end of the bench. Clamp the countertop to the workbench with C clamps to hold it in place. Place a strip of masking tape where you will cut the countertop. Use a measuring tape to measure in from the end you are going to cut off and place a strip of masking tape across the counter widthwise approximately where your cut line will be. This will keep the laminate from chipping during cutting. You can use masking tape or blue painter's tape that is about 2–4 in (5.1–10.2 cm) wide for this so you don't have to be super precise when placing it. Draw your cut line onto the masking tape with a straight edge. Measure in from the end to the piece of tape and make a small mark exactly where your cut will go. Do this in 2-3 places on the tape and then draw a line through the marks with a ruler or carpenter's square. If you have a large carpenter's square, you can just use that to measure in from the edge of the countertop and draw your cut line along it in one go. Secure a piece of wood to the countertop with C clamps for a saw guide. Measure the distance between the saw blade and the outside edge of the metal guard on the saw, then measure this distance in from the cut line. Clamp a piece of wood that is at least 1 in × 2 in (2.5 cm × 5.1 cm) (thickness x width) perpendicular to the cut line here so that the edge creates a guide rail. You will need to use a circular saw for this that has a metal guard rail. If the distance between the blade of the saw and the outside edge of the guard rail is 4 in (10 cm), then clamp the wood so the edge is 4 in (10 cm) away from the cut line. Clamp the wood to the part of the counter that is secured to the workbench. For example, if you are cutting off the right-hand end of the countertop, then clamp the guide in from the left-hand side of the line. Set the depth of your saw blade to 1⁄8 in (0.32 cm) deeper than the countertop. Measure the thickness of the countertop in a few different places. Set the depth of the saw blade to ⁄ 8  in (0.32 cm) deeper than the thickest point you found. This will ensure the saw cuts through the whole countertop. Use your saw to cut slowly along the whole line to cut the countertop. Press down the power button of your circular saw to get the blade up to full speed first. Place the blade carefully against the start of the cut line and the outside edge of the saw guard up against the wooden guide fence. Push the saw along the line through to the end. Always wear proper protective gear when cutting countertops. Wear safety goggles, a face mask, and ear protection. You want to get your circular saw up to full speed before you cut so that you get a smooth cut. Practice cutting into the scrap piece of the countertop that you are going to cut off if you want to get a feel for cutting into the countertop with the circular saw. Sand the edge you cut to remove any rough parts or saw marks. Use fine-grit sandpaper of about 120-grit. Sand rough spots or spots with saw marks using downward strokes to avoid chipping the laminate. Keep the masking tape on until you are done sanding. Remove the masking tape after the edge is smooth and you are happy with the results. Use a jigsaw to cut out a hole for a sink in the countertop if you need one. Trace the outline of the sink (upside down) onto the counter where you want it to go, then place masking tape and draw cut lines slightly in from the outline. Drill a pilot hole in a corner of the cut lines, insert the blade of a jigsaw, turn it on, and cut around the whole outline. To decide how far to mark the cut lines in from the outline, measure the distance from the sink's mounting lip to the basin of the sink. Mark the cut lines approximately this far in from the outline to allow the sink to rest on top of the counter supported by its mounting lip. Many sinks will also come with a template for making the perfect cutout. In this case, you can just trace the template and cut along those lines. Buy a slab of stone countertop big enough to cover the counter area. Measure the length and width of the counter area you want to cover. Order or purchase a slab of stone countertop that is approximately the right size to cover it. You can get stone countertop slabs from a home improvement center, kitchen showroom, or a stone supply company. This method works to cut various types of stone countertops, including granite and marble countertops. Clamp the stone slab to a workbench on top of 2 in (5.1 cm) rigid foam. Place the countertop slab on top of a piece of 2 in (5.1 cm) thick rigid foam to protect the workbench underneath it when you cut. Place a C clamp every 1–2 ft (0.30–0.61 m) along the edges to secure everything in place. Don't use sawhorses or any other work surface that might move while you are cutting. Stone is much heavier than other types of countertops, so you need a very stable work surface. This will also reduce vibrations and movement that can lead to chipping. Cutting stone is a messy business. If possible, work outside or at least in an open, well-ventilated workspace where it will be easy to clean up all the dust. Cover the section of stone you will cut with painter’s tape. Place 2-3 strips of painter's tape over the approximate area you will be cutting. This will protect the surface of the stone and prevent chipping as you cut. The placement of the tape doesn't need to be perfect, just make sure you cover the area where your cut line will be. You will mark the line on top of the tape. Draw your cut line onto the painter’s tape with a straight edge and marker. Use a straight edge like a metal ruler or carpenter's square to measure in from the end of the slab and mark where your cut line will go on the tape. Draw a cut line along the whole length of the tape using the straight edge. Double-check your measurements to make sure the line is the same distance from the end of the slab all the way along it. You won't be able to make any corrections to your cut after you make it, so measure twice and cut once! Make a 2 in (5.1 cm) cut in at the far end of the cut line. Carefully position the blade of a circular saw in front of the end of the cut line (where you will finish the cut). Press down the power button to get it up to speed, push it slowly in about 2 in (5.1 cm) along the line, then back it out and release the power button to stop it spinning. This is called a back cut and is important so that the stone doesn't chip or break at the end of your cut where it will be more fragile. Use a circular saw with a diamond blade for cutting stone. You can use a wet circular saw to reduce the amount of dust in the air while you cut. Make sure the depth of the saw's blade is set to just a bit deeper than the thickness of the stone slab. Make sure to put on safety goggles, a dust mask, and ear protection before you start cutting. Position the saw at the other end of the cut line and cut slowly along it. Walk back over to the other side of the cut line with your saw and carefully line up the blade with the cut line. Press the power button to get the blade up to speed, then slowly push the saw all the way along the cut line until you meet the back cut. Focus on keeping the saw blade aligned with the cut line and push very slowly. The blade will do most of the work, so you just need to apply light and steady pressure to push it along slowly. Cutting stone takes longer than cutting other materials like laminate or wood, so be patient and focus on making a straight cut. Remove the tape and wipe the stone countertop with a damp rag. Peel off the tape once you finish cutting all the way through. Wipe away all the dust with a wet rag and you will be left with a clean new stone countertop! A shop vac will also come in handy for sucking up all the rock dust that is left after cutting the stone countertop. Use an angle grinder with a diamond blade to make a sink cut out if needed. Buy a sink that comes with a template for the cutout and trace the template onto masking tape on the countertop. Cut 1-2 mm inside of the lines with the angle grinder and work in passes until you cut all the way through the slab along the lines. You can work in sections if it is easier. For example, cut out a large rectangular middle section first, then cut out the sides. Leave rounded corners for last so you can cut them out in smaller pieces.
Measure the area of the counter space you need to cut a top for. Buy a piece of laminate countertop that will cover the counter area. Put the countertop on a workbench with the edge you will cut hanging off. Place a strip of masking tape where you will cut the countertop. Draw your cut line onto the masking tape with a straight edge. Secure a piece of wood to the countertop with C clamps for a saw guide. Set the depth of your saw blade to 1⁄8 in (0.32 cm) deeper than the countertop. Use your saw to cut slowly along the whole line to cut the countertop. Sand the edge you cut to remove any rough parts or saw marks. Use a jigsaw to cut out a hole for a sink in the countertop if you need one. Buy a slab of stone countertop big enough to cover the counter area. Clamp the stone slab to a workbench on top of 2 in (5.1 cm) rigid foam. Cover the section of stone you will cut with painter’s tape. Draw your cut line onto the painter’s tape with a straight edge and marker. Make a 2 in (5.1 cm) cut in at the far end of the cut line. Position the saw at the other end of the cut line and cut slowly along it. Remove the tape and wipe the stone countertop with a damp rag. Use an angle grinder with a diamond blade to make a sink cut out if needed.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Vegetarian-Fried-Rice
How to Make Vegetarian Fried Rice
To make Chinese-style vegetarian fried rice, start by sautéing onions for 10 minutes in a frying pan. After removing the onions, add the tofu cubes, cook until they're brown on all sides, then remove them from the pan. Next, whisk together egg and sesame oil, cook and remove the egg, then fry the peas and carrots with the pre-cooked onion and tofu for 2 minutes. Then, add the cooked rice, green onions, and bean sprouts, cook for 3 minutes, and add the cooked egg and soy sauce. Finally, cook everything together for 1 minute.
Rinse the rice. Place the rice in a large bowl, cover the rice with water, and allow it to soak for a few minutes. Then, strain the rice through a strainer, rinsing it with clean water as you do so. Some rice is very starchy, and rinsing it before cooking can help to remove the starchy coating on the outside of the rice. It's not always necessary to soak or rinse rice, but it can be important for rice dishes where you don't want the grains sticking together. Cook the rice. For Chinese-style fried rice, the rice is always boiled before it's fried. To cook the rice, place it into a medium saucepan. Add a pinch of salt and the water, put the lid on, and bring it to a boil over medium heat. When it comes to a boil, turn the heat down to a low simmer and continue cooking the rice for about 15 minutes. The rice is ready when all the water has been absorbed and the rice is soft. Remove the rice from the heat and leave it to sit for at least five minutes, with the lid on. Cool the rice and separate the grains. When the rice has had a few minutes to rest after cooking, pour it out onto a cookie sheet greased with a thin layer of oil. Spread the rice out as thin as possible and set it aside to cool. Give the rice 15 to 30 minutes to cool. When the rice is cool enough to handle, put a bit of oil on your fingers to prevent sticking. Use your fingers to break apart the grains and remove any clusters or clumps of rice. Sauté the onions. In a wok or large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon (15 ml) of the oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook them for about 10 minutes, until they become a light golden brown. Use a slotted spoon to remove the onions. Place them in a bowl and set them aside. Some of the best oils for fried rice are canola, peanut, vegetable, and coconut. Brown the tofu. Add another ½ tablespoon (7.5 ml) of oil to the hot wok. Add the tofu cubes and cook them for one to two minutes. Flip them and cook for another minute. Continue flipping until the tofu cubes have been browned on every side. Remove the tofu from the wok using the slotted spoon. Place the tofu into the same bowl with the pre-cooked onions. Cook the egg. In a small bowl, whisk the egg together with the sesame oil and 1 teaspoon (5 ml) of the soy sauce. Add another ½ tablespoon (7.5 ml) of oil to the wok and heat it over medium heat. Pour in the egg mixture and swirl it around in the wok until the egg sets. Flip the egg over when it begins to puff up. Cook it for another minute before removing it from the wok. Transfer the egg to a plate or cutting board and cut it into small pieces. Cook the peas and carrots. Add the final tablespoon (15 ml) of oil to the wok and give it a moment to heat up. Add the peas, carrots, and the pre-cooked onion and tofu. Fry the vegetables and tofu for about two minutes. Add or substitute vegetables to suit your tastes. You don't actually have to use any of the vegetables mentioned in the recipe, and you can add or remove ingredients as needed to include your favorite vegetables and spices to add flavor. The recipe needs about 1¾ cups of vegetables, which can include: One to two cloves of minced garlic A half-inch (1.3 cm) of freshly grated ginger Red peppers Mushrooms Cabbage Asparagus Corn or baby corn Bok choy Broccoli Celery Tomato Add the remaining ingredients. Finally, add the cooked rice, the green onions, and the bean sprouts to the wok. Toss all the vegetables together and let them cook for about three minutes. After three minutes, add the pre-cooked egg and the remaining 2 tablespoons (30 ml) of soy sauce. Toss gently to coat everything in the soy sauce, being careful not to break up the egg too much. Cook everything together for about a minute, until the soy sauce is heated through. Serve with additional soy sauce. When the rice is ready, serve individual portions with additional sauce if desired. Before serving, you can also garnish the rice with ¼ cup (30 g) of roasted and crushed peanuts. Heat the mustard seeds in the oil. One of the main differences between Chinese and Indian fried rice is that some Indian rice dishes fry the rice before boiling it, rather than the other way around. Pour the oil into a wok or large frying pan and heat it over medium heat. Add the mustard seeds and cook them for a few minutes, until they sputter and crackle. Cook the veggies. When the mustard seeds heat up and release their flavor into the oil, add the onions, peppers, scallions, and carrots to the wok. Sauté the vegetables for about seven minutes, until the onions become translucent. Add the spices and the rice. Pour the garam masala, turmeric, cayenne pepper, and rice in with the vegetables. Toss to coat the vegetables and the rice in the oil and spices. Heat the rice for a couple minutes, until it becomes glossy with the oil. Coating the rice in oil before adding the water will help prevent the rice from sticking together, and ensure that the grains are infused with all the spice flavors. Add the water. Pour the water over the rice and vegetable mixture. Place a lid over the wok and allow it to cook for 15 to 20 minutes, until the rice becomes soft and absorbs all the water. To add a bit of extra flavor, you can also cook the rice in vegetable broth, or a vegetable broth and coconut milk mixture. Garnish and season before serving. When the rice is cooked, stir in the lemon juice and coriander or chopped mint leaves. Add extra salt and pepper, to taste, before serving.
Rinse the rice. Cook the rice. Cool the rice and separate the grains. Sauté the onions. Brown the tofu. Cook the egg. Cook the peas and carrots. Add or substitute vegetables to suit your tastes. Add the remaining ingredients. Serve with additional soy sauce. Heat the mustard seeds in the oil. Cook the veggies. Add the spices and the rice. Add the water. Garnish and season before serving.
https://www.wikihow.com/Train-a-Golden-Retriever-Puppy
How to Train a Golden Retriever Puppy
If you want to train a golden retriever puppy, give it lots of positive reinforcement whenever it performs a behavior you like, such as doing its business outside or greeting another dog in a friendly manner. Golden retrievers respond especially well to being rewarded, so if you are consistent, you will quickly train your puppy the behaviors you prefer. Your rewards can be praise, petting, playing with a favorite toy, or offering a treat.
Focus on rewarding good behavior when you see it. There are many different methods of training dogs, but the effective ones all boil to three things: rewarding behaviors you like; not rewarding behaviors you don't like; and staying consistent. Rewarding – This is the easy and fun part. Rewards aren't just for when you are actively training. If your golden pees outside, you praise her/him. If she/he greets another dog in a friendly manner, tell her/him how great she/he is. Not rewarding negative behavior – This requires a little more vigilance. If your dog is doing something you don't like, think about why: usually it is because she is rewarded somehow. You need to consistently remove that reward. For instance, if he/she jumps all over you in excitement when he/she sees his/her leash, you will not want to put it on and take him/her for a walk, as that rewards the behavior. Instead, turn away or look to the sky until he/she calms down. Then put the leash on and walk her. Be consistent – You and everyone else should respond the same way whatever your dog does. If you don't feed her from the table, but your kid is busy offering your golden half his plate, you're in trouble. Or if you tell your dog to get down when she jumps up sometimes and greet her enthusiastically others times, you are sending mixed messages that will confuse your dog. Use a reward your dog responds to. Whenever you are training your dog for a specific behavior, you will need to have a reward on hand. Pick something your goldie really loves; the better the reward, the easier it will be to teach your dog. If your dog loves to play, you can try using her favorite toy and playing with her when she barks. Most people, however, will find that treats are the most effective way to teach a dog. The best treats will be ones your dog loves, and which are also easy to carry, easy to break into pieces, and healthy. Use a variety of treats so your dog doesn't get bored. Try: String cheese sticks. Cooked chicken. Meat rolls (available at pet stores). Broken-up dog biscuits or store-bought training treats. Baby carrots or frozen green beans (for dogs on a diet). Consider clicker training. In clicker training, you use a sound (the clicker) to let your dog know when she has done something right. The clicker is very effective because it is a consistent, unique sound, different from your voice. However, you can also say “good” or “yes” as a signal if you don't have a clicker. Load your clicker first. Get a treat in your hand. If your dog tries to get it, just close your hand. Click and offer it to your dog. Repeat a few minutes later. Then again. Continue until your dog comes immediately at the sound of the clicker and expects a treat. Train one skill at a time and keep sessions short, simple and rewarding. Effective training should be fun for you and your dog. To get the most out of it, follow these best practices: Keep it short. Training sessions should last no more than 15 minutes, and usually less for a puppy. Train one part of one skill. For instance, if you are teaching sit and stay, start with sit. Reward all sitting, then add a command as your dog sits, then practice sitting on command. Next practice staying seated. Then train staying seated while you walk away. And finally move the training to a more distracting environment like a park. Breaking training down like this will make it much more effective. Use simple words, not sentences. You need your commands to be simple and consistent: “sit” instead of “sit, Fido” or “sit down” or “would you please sit.” The more words you use, the more confused your dog will be. Decide what you want your dog to know. All owners will want their golden retriever puppy to be house-trained as soon as possible, and most will want to leash train their puppy as well. Basic obedience training – sit, stay, come, down, and leave it – is also vital. The other tricks, skills, and behaviors that are desired will depend on the likes and dislikes of each owner and dog. Golden's love to fetch, and it is a great way to exercise them, so it's a good skill for them to learn. But you may want to teach your dog to play tug of war or catch a Frisbee instead. Tricks like “speak” and “shake” (or “fist bump”) are fun, but not necessary. If you travel or board your dog frequently, you will want to be sure she is crate trained. Depending on your dog's temperament, you may have to train them not to beg, not to jump on you when you come home, or not to show aggressiveness towards other dogs (though this last is not typically a problem with golden retrievers). Decide what you will teach your puppy. Obedience training consists of teaching your dog to do things in response to your verbal commands or hand signals. Basic commands like “sit”, “come”, “leave it”, and “stay” are important to help you manage your dog and ensure her safety, but there are many other commands you can teach, like “shake”, “roll over”, “jump” or “speak”. Most of these skills are taught with the same basic reward-based methods – capturing or luring – which will be demonstrated here with “sit”. Use the lure method to teach “sit”. Be sure to break up the training described here into multiple short sessions carried out over several days. With a treat in hand, hold your hand out so your puppy can smell it, then lift your hand up and back over her head. As her eyes follow you and her head goes up, your golden puppy will automatically sit. As soon as she does, say “yes” or click and give the treat. Do this until she is easily lured into sitting. Now try the same thing, but with no treat in your hand. Say “sit” and move your hand back. Give her the treat as soon as she sits. When your golden has mastered sitting for your empty hand, back away, and use the same hand motion at a distance while saying “sit”. Finally, say “sit” without the hand motion, and reward your dog when she does so. Use the capture method to teach sit. Get some treats. Ignore your puppy, but watch her closely. As soon as she sits, say “sit” and toss a treat. She will probably try all sorts of things to get another treat. Wait for her to sit again, then say “sit” and toss a treat. Your dog will quickly learn to link sitting, the word “sit” and treats. Know when to house train your golden retriever puppy. Start house training the moment you bring the puppy home. After the journey, take pup out to your chosen toilet spot and let her sniff around. If she happens to pee or poop, give her a reward. Regularly take the pup to the toilet spot (every 20 minutes when possible) and when she happens to toilet give her lots of praise. Times when she is most likely to toilet are immediately after eating, and 20 minutes after eating. Pop her outside on both occasions and this increases your chances of her pooping in the toilet spot. This early stage is all about happy coincidences and rewarding them. Don't worry if she doesn't "get it" at first, but never ever punish her for going indoors. Be positive and consistent. Punishing your dog for peeing or pooping in the house will only scare her and make it harder for her to learn. Consistency is the best way to train your dog. Feed your puppy on a regular schedule. Remove the food between meals. Regular feedings will lead to regular times when your dog needs to eliminate. Take your puppy outside frequently on a regular schedule. A consistent schedule is the best way to avoid accidents. Very young puppies should be taken out every hour, as well as shortly after meals and naps. All puppies should be taken out first thing in the morning, just before you go to bed, and before they are confined or left alone. A puppy can usually hold her pee for the same number of hours as her age in months during the day. Puppies can hold their pee longer at night. A 4 month old puppy should be able to make it through the night Keep a close eye on your puppy to prevent accidents. You don't want your puppy to get in the habit of eliminating in the house, so whenever she is not confined, watch her closely. Pacing, whining, circling, sniffing, and leaving the room are all signs that your puppy needs to pee or poop. Get her outside as quickly as possible. Confine your golden retriever puppy when you can’t watch her. Use a crate or a small room with the door closed or blocked off by a baby gate. As your puppy grows, you can gradually increase the size of the area, eventually letting her use multiple rooms. Especially when first increasing the size of the space, it's a good idea to introduce your golden to the space just after she has eliminated outside. Reward your puppy when she pees or poops outside. During house training, you should always go outside with your puppy. Take her to the same place each time, so the smells will encourage her to go. Rewards peeing or pooping outside with praise, treats, or play. Stay calm if you catch your puppy in the middle of an accident. You don't want to scare your puppy, and you definitely don't want to rub her face in the mess. Clap sharply in order to startle her; this will usually cause her to stop. Then quickly run with her outside, encouraging her to follow you. If your golden finishes peeing or pooping outside, give a reward. If she has nothing left, don't worry about it. Decide how trained you need your dog to be. It takes discipline, consistency, and time to teach you dog to walk at your side, never tugging on the leash or taking off to chase squirrels. But if that's what you're after, then you can do it. On the other hand, you may not mind if your dog walks ahead of you, so long as she doesn't tug too hard on the lease. In this case, a no-pull harness or head halter might do the trick without any extra training. Knowing what you are aiming for – and being on the same page with anyone else who walks the dog – is key. Get the right equipment. You'll want a four to six foot, fixed length leash. Extendable leashes and very long ones will make training more difficult. For a collar, use: a regular buckle or snap collar; a slip collar; a head halter; or a no-pull harness. Do not use a choke collar, unless training with a professional trainer. Never use a pinch or prong collar, unless training with a professional trainer. Make every walk into a training session. Consistency is the key, so until your dog can walk without pulling, every walk, no matter who gives it, is a training session. Keep them short and fun. Going on a long walk with a dog who is not yet trained will only frustrate both of you. Exercise your dog before leash training sessions. This is important for two reasons: 1) until your puppy is trained, your walks will be too short to fully exercise her; and 2) dogs with lots of energy are more likely to pull. Play fetch or tug, or let your dog romp with other dogs at the park before your leash training sessions. Have treats on hand. You'll need lots of them to train your dog. For walks, soft ones like cheese, cooked hot dogs, jerky, or chicken are best, since they can be eaten quickly while your dog is walking. Walk quickly. Moving fast makes you more interesting to your dog, and she will be less likely to stop repeatedly if she's moving fast. It will also be easier to teach your dog not to pull if you're going a bit closer to her natural pace. Choose your method. There are four main methods to teach your dog not to pull. Some work better with some dogs than others. If you choose a method and appear to be making no progress after several weeks, pick another one. Stop and go – When your dog reaches the end of the lease, stop. Wait until she puts slack in the leash, then call her to you and ask her to sit. When she does, say “yes” and give her a treat. Do this every time your dog reaches the end of the leash. Also give your dog treats regularly whenever she looks at you or walks close to you. You want her to associate walking near you with treats, and tugging with the walk stopping. If she tugs to smell something, stop as usual, but instead of giving her a treat after she sits, let her explore the scent she was going for as her reward. Lure and reward – Fill your left hand with treats, hold it in front of your golden retriever puppy's nose, say “let's walk”, and start walking. Give a treat every few seconds. If she pulls, stop and call her back to you, then reward her. Don't go too far – these walks take lots of treats and bending over. After a week, stop luring. Say “let's walk” and walk with your left hand held normally. Give a treat every other step. In the coming walks, gradually increase the number of steps between treats: 2, 5, 10, 20. Eventually, you should be able to walk your dog with only occasional treats. About face – This option is mainly for dogs that struggle with the first two methods. When your dog is nearing the end of the leash, say “easy.” If she slows, say “yes” and reward her with a treat. If she keeps going to the end, turn abruptly and head the other way, letting the leash check your dog. Praise your dog as she hurries to catch up, and when she reaches you, turn and resume walking in the original direction. Do this every time your dog pulls. When your dog is walking near you or at your side, treat her regularly. This method should work quickly. If pulling does not decrease after several sessions, stop. Do not use this method with a head halter or pinch collar, as it may injure your dog. Collar correction - This option is mainly for dogs that struggle with the first two methods. When your dog is nearing the end of the leash, say “easy.” If she slows, say “yes” and reward her with a treat. If she keeps going to the end, jerk abruptly on the leash. It may take several jerks to get your dog to slow down. Be sure to reward your dog regularly when she is walking near you with a slack leash. Be aware that pulling too hard can hurt your dog's neck or throat. This method should reduce pulling in a couple of days. If it does not, you need to stop and try something else. Use a crate to keep your puppy, and your possessions, safe when at home and traveling. There are a variety of reasons to crate train your dog. Use your crate: To keep your puppy safe when you cannot watch her. To keep your belongings safe when you cannot watch your puppy. When your puppy is home alone. To give your puppy a place to calm down. When traveling. To keep your puppy away from children or other dogs. To aid in house training and other behavioral training. Know what not to use the crate for. Never use your crate to punish your dog. And once your dog is no longer a puppy and can be trusted not to destroy the house, do not crate your dog when you are away. Save the crate for special times – i.e. guests in the house – and travel. For the most part, your dog should enter her crate voluntarily. Choose a crate. The type of crate you use is up to personal preference, though many find that wire crates are the most durable and comfortable long-term solutions for dogs (as well as being used at most kennels where you might board your dog). The most important thing is that you get the right size crate. If it is too small, your dog will not be comfortable. If it is too large, it will provide the den-like space dogs crave. To save money, buy a crate to use for your dog when she grows up, and use a divider to make it the appropriate size for her as a puppy. Your dog should be able to stand in the crate without hitting her head, to turn around comfortably, and to lie on their side with their paws stretched out. For a typical adult golden, a 42” crate should suffice. Also buy a divider if purchasing the crate for your puppy. Make the crate safe and comfortable. Your dog should enjoy her crate. It should provide a comfortable place for her to relax, so much so that she should choose to spend time there. Make sure to: Put the crate in a room where you spend lots of time, so your puppy does not feel abandoned. Keep it a comfortable temperature: out of direct sunlight and far from fireplaces and radiators. Place soft bedding inside. Place chew toys inside to give your dog something to do. Cover your wire crate with a towel or crate cover. This will give it more of the den-like feel your dog craves. Teach your dog to associate the crate with good things. Before crate training, you'll want to teach your dog that the crate is magical place of wonder that produces things she loves. If you do it well, crate training will be much easier. Assemble your crate without your dog seeing it, prop the door open, and place treats around the entrance, just inside, and at the back. Throw some new dog toys in, too. Let your dog explore the crate on her own. Don't bring attention to it. Don't say anything if she goes inside. Let her go at her own speed. Every hour or so put more treats in the crate when your dog is not looking. Soon, they'll be going into the crate on their own to check for treats. (Be sure to subtract all these treats from their daily food allowance.) Also start feeding your dog in the crate. At first, put the bowl just inside so they only have to poke their head in. After 2 or 3 successful feedings, move it to the middle, then all the way back. Train your dog to enter the crate for treats. Show your dog a treat and toss it in the crate. As they enter use your chosen command, such as “Crate.” When your dog enters, praise her and give another treat. Move away and wait for her to leave the crate. As she does so, use your exit cue word – “Out!” Praise but do not give a treat; you want treats to be associated with the magical crate. Do this 10 times, take a break of a few minutes, and do it 10 more times. Always use your cue words. Repeat the whole ritual several times a day until your dog is happily entering the crate to fetch treats. This part of the training shouldn't take long. Teach your dog to enter the crate on command. After tossing a treat in once or twice to warm your dog up, use your command word without a treat. If she enters, praise profusely and give a treat or two. Also praise her when she leaves. Do this 10 times, take a break, and do it 10 more times. Repeat this training several times a day for two or three days, until your dog is entering and leaving the crate on command. If your golden puppy struggles with this step, go back to the previous one. Close the door. Ask your puppy to enter the crate and sit. Slowly close the door. If you have to bang it shut before your dog escapes, then she is not ready for this step. When the door is closed, praise and give treats, then open the door and let her leave. Practice in sets of 10, with a break, then another set of ten. Gradually lengthen the time they must sit in the crate before you let them out. Do sessions of training where they wait ten seconds, then 30, 45, and a minute. Move further away. When your dog can comfortably stay in the crate for a minute, you will want to start moving away while she is in the crate. In the first session, move only a few feet away before you come back. Move to different areas of the room and keep looking at your dog. Next, try training sessions where you move around the room without paying attention to your puppy. Add moments when you step out of the room briefly and return. Finally, leave the room. Leave the room. At first, stay out for only five minutes. Gradually increase the time you are gone to 30 minutes. If your dog grows overly anxious while you are gone, return and let her out. Go back to the previous step or reduce the time you are leaving her. Always remove your puppies leash and collar before putting her in the crate, as they are choking hazards. Crate your dog when you are away. When your dog can stay comfortably in her crate for 30 minutes, it's time to start putting her in the crate when you leave. For a puppy, these will need to be shorter trips, as a puppy cannot be expected to go more than 3 hours or so without urinating. Even when your dog is grown, you should not crate her during the day for more than 4 hours. She needs to be able to get up and stretch her legs. Exercise your dog and give her a chewy or toy before you go. Vary the time you put your dog in the crate. Sometimes do it ten minutes before you go. Sometimes five. Sometimes right before you head out the door. You don't want the crate to become a signal of abandonment. Don't make a fuss when you leave. Praise your dog for entering her crate, then go. Have your dog sleep in the crate overnight. Now that your puppy is comfortable in her crate, she can sleep there overnight, but be sure you can hear her. Puppies often need to pee in the middle of the night. Be patient! Each dog is unique when it comes to crate training. Some goldens can be trained in a week or less. More timid dogs or those with bad previous experiences may take several weeks. Don't push your dog too fast. Make sure they are comfortable with each step before moving to the next one. Start with good habits. Golden retrievers love to fetch, and it is a great way to exercise them. You probably won't need any help getting your puppy to chase a ball or toy. But be sure to instill good habits early on to make sure they learn how to bring the toy back and drop it near you. Use two toys to teach your dog to bring the toy back. Throw one, and when your dog picks it up, show the other toy and throw it the other way. While he is chasing it, pick up the first toy. Do this until he is accustomed to fetching and then running towards you. Eventually, you can call your dog without showing the second toy. If he comes, say drop it and show the second toy. When your dog will drop on command, you can eliminate the second toy. Attach a line to the toy if using two toys doesn’t work. When your dog picks it up, shake the line and run away to encourage him to follow you. If he follows give a treat. If your dog still runs away, reel him in with the rope. Praise and reward when close. Don't always throw the toy right away. Let your dog chew on it sometimes after returning. You don't want him to think he will lose it every time he returns. After a few weeks, your dog should stop trying to escape with the toy. Use treats to get your dog to drop. Say “drop it” and put a treat right in front of your dog's nose. This will get even the most stubborn dogs to give up the toy. If your dog still won't drop, try a more irresistible treat, like bits of bacon or cheese. Eventually you will not need the treat, but still give one every so often. Walk away to teach your dog to drop closer to you. Just before your dog drops the toy, say “bring it” and move away. When he reaches the place you were standing, say “drop it” and walk back to him to pick up the toy. It may take a few weeks before your dog learns to bring the toy to you. Use “sit” and “stay” to keep your dog from picking the toy up when you reach for it. Tell your dog to sit and stay when he drops the toy. If your dog tries to grab it when you bend down, immediately say “no” or “uh, uh” and stand up. Eventually, your dog will figure out that if he wants to keep playing, he will have to sit and stay while you pick up the toy. When he does hold the stay, remember to say “okay” to release him before you throw the toy again.
Focus on rewarding good behavior when you see it. Use a reward your dog responds to. Consider clicker training. Train one skill at a time and keep sessions short, simple and rewarding. Decide what you want your dog to know. Decide what you will teach your puppy. Use the lure method to teach “sit”. Use the capture method to teach sit. Know when to house train your golden retriever puppy. Be positive and consistent. Feed your puppy on a regular schedule. Take your puppy outside frequently on a regular schedule. Keep a close eye on your puppy to prevent accidents. Confine your golden retriever puppy when you can’t watch her. Reward your puppy when she pees or poops outside. Stay calm if you catch your puppy in the middle of an accident. Decide how trained you need your dog to be. Get the right equipment. Make every walk into a training session. Exercise your dog before leash training sessions. Have treats on hand. Walk quickly. Choose your method. Use a crate to keep your puppy, and your possessions, safe when at home and traveling. Know what not to use the crate for. Choose a crate. Make the crate safe and comfortable. Teach your dog to associate the crate with good things. Train your dog to enter the crate for treats. Teach your dog to enter the crate on command. Close the door. Move further away. Leave the room. Crate your dog when you are away. Have your dog sleep in the crate overnight. Be patient! Start with good habits. Use two toys to teach your dog to bring the toy back. Attach a line to the toy if using two toys doesn’t work. Use treats to get your dog to drop. Walk away to teach your dog to drop closer to you. Use “sit” and “stay” to keep your dog from picking the toy up when you reach for it.
https://www.wikihow.com/Selectively-Breed-Betta-Fish
How to Selectively Breed Betta Fish
To selectively breed your betta fish, place the male in the tank by himself for a few hours. Before introducing the female, place a hurricane glass or half a styrofoam cup near the tank walls to give her a hiding place from the male until she's ready. Release the female from her enclosure when the male releases a layer of tiny bubbles, known as a bubble nest. If necessary, position her on or near the bubble nest to ensure that she lies her eggs within the bubbles.
Buy bettas from one breeder. If you are buying bettas to breed, make sure to get them only from one specific, reputable breeder. This can help ensure the quality and success rate of your betta spawn. Be aware that getting quality bettas to breed can be expensive. More expensive fish generally mean that a breeder has also used selective breeding techniques. Although this isn't a guarantee of successful breeding, it can ensure the health and quality of your fish and possible their spawn. Some elements to look for in a breeder include: accomplishments, longevity, experience, knowledge, professionalism, affiliation with betta organizations, availability, reputation, track record, cleanliness, reference. Ask the breeder to let you know about the parentage of the bettas. If he can't answer the question, you may want to consider using another breeder that keeps tabs of his bettas' parentage. Find quality betta breeders through organizations such as the International Betta Congress. If you have friends or family that breed bettas or are familiar with them, you might ask them for suggestions, too. Choose your optimal betta pair. Figure out which bettas to get depending on what qualities you're hoping to highlight or breed out. You want to get the best quality stock you can afford and finding the right pair can help ensure health, beauty, and even your enjoyment. Make sure that you and your breeder both have knowledge of your fish's genetics. Knowing which traits can be inherited is important for responsible breeding to prevent generations of fish that follow from being unhealthy. Be aware that selective breeding is meant to bring out certain characteristics in a betta fish. For example, you may want to bring out black lace patterns in your betta. By choosing another betta with more distinctive lace patterns and mating it with your betta, you can bring out this particularly quality. You can apply this principle to color and fin size, too. Remember that if you're hoping to achieve a certain goal through your selective breeding, either with fin size or color, it can take a few years and cycles for these traits to fully appear. You can either use hybridization or inbreeding for desired traits. Hybridization will bring out the best traits in two genetically different parents, and inbreeding crosses two similar parents for offspring that also have the similar traits. Check the size. Betta breeding can be rough no matter what, but it's important to get fish that are approximately the same size. This helps prevent injury to one of the fish. Looking at the size of each betta can ensure healthy spawn and a healthy breeding process for each fish. Be aware that a fish that is too small may be too young to breed. Aim to breed bettas that are four to twelve months old, which can help ensure that the sizes are proportionate as well as help prevent bad quality spawn. Detect sexual maturity in your betta by looking for males that build bubble nests and females that have a whitish egg spot on their underside. Females are also able to build bubble nests - don't let that fool you. Examine the fins. Many people want to selectively breed their bettas for fin size and finnage. Looking at the fins for characteristics you want to bring out as well as for potential injury can help ensure that you get the qualities you hope to breed. Check the caudal, or tail, fin for straightness and curvature. Good breeding stock bettas with have straighter caudal fins that are curved in opposite directions. Avoid bettas with caudal fins curved in the same direction. Look for ray branching or splitting on all of the bettas fins. The more branches or splits you have, the more supportive, larger, and beautiful finnage you will get. Make sure the betta has no traces of fin rot, which looks like ripped or fuzzy fins with red tips or near the tears. Combine complementary colors. Bettas come in and exhibit a wide range of colors on their bodies. Find the color bettas you like as mates or for your betta as a mate and try to choose colors that work well together. Be aware that bettas come in colors such as red, orange, yellow, turquoise, steel blue or royal blue. They can also have black or iridescent features. For example, you might find that breeding the blues with black lace features give your fish beautiful colors. Ask the breeder if you are unsure of what can work best for your betta. Have a large tank. You can breed your bettas in smaller tanks, but it's best for the fish to mate in a tank that is at least a 5-10 gallon. This ensures the delicate female has enough space and can make the mating process more optimal for both bettas. Remember that your bettas need separate tanks until it is time for them to breed. This keeps the fish from harming one another. Ensure high water quality. Water quality is vital to the health and happiness of any betta. This is especially true during mating, so make sure that your tank water is as fresh and high quality as possible. Test the fish tank water with a test kit you can buy at most pet stores. Use the test to find potential problems with water quality, such as high ammonia, acidity or low pH, or low oxygen. Fix any problems in the water. The pH level should be about 7. If it isn't, get a chemical neutralizer at your local pet store to restore the levels back to 7. Oxygen saturation should exceed 70%. If it doesn't you may need to clean out the tank and fill it with new water or replace the charcoal filter. Make sure the water temperature it is between 50 and 78 degrees Fahrenheit with a thermometer. This can help promote breeding between your bettas and ensure quality spawn. Use a gentle water filter. Bettas produce a lot of waste, which can effect water quality. Filter the water gently, which can maintain the health of your mating bettas, promote the mating process and help the eggs and fry survive. Watch for too much movement of the water by the filter. The natural habitat of bettas is still water, and anything that moves particularly roughly water may disturb bettas and their offspring. Provide hiding spots for females. Mating causes female bettas stress and can injure them. Hiding spots made out of plants can soothe the female and guard the bubble nest of eggs. Arrange an array of floating plants in the tank to optimize your bettas' breeding space. You can use live or artificial plants in the tank, all of which are available at pet stores or specialty fish retailers. Check for health problems. If either betta is showing signs of illness, consider giving it commercial fish medication. This can treat your fish for diseases or parasites and aid breeding. Feed your bettas. Breeding can stress and fatigue your betta pair. Feed them a hearty diet before they start breeding to optimize the process and ensure the health of the eggs and fry. Give the pair a mixture of live brine shrimp and flake food. Feed them once per day to prevent excess food from spoiling the water. Introduce the betta mates. Once you have checked the health of and fed each betta, it's time for them to “meet.” Keep the bettas in separate tanks for a few days to help the pair acquaint themselves, prevent injury, and ensure higher quality eggs. Place the male and female in separate tanks close to one another for a day or two. You may notice the bettas showing interest in one another during this time, which is a sign they're ready to mate. Place the male in the breeding tank. Move the male to the breeding tank once the bettas have had a chance to get acquainted in separate tanks. Keep the female in her tank for a few hours so that the male can prepare himself to breed. Check that the male isn't exhibiting any signs of distress before adding the female to the water. Bettas show stress by banging their bodies up against the sides of the tank or swimming near the surface. Put the female betta in the breeding tank. Once the male is safely in the breeding tank for a few hours, you can slowly introduce the female to the tank. Giving her an initial separate space within the tank helps her acclimate and can prevent the male from stressing her before she is ready. Protect the female in the breeding tank with a hurricane glass or cut a Styrofoam cup in half. Gently lower this separate container into the tank and place it up against one of the tank walls. Avoid sealing the glass or cup flush against the wall, which can prevent her from swimming out to the male to breed. Give her enough space by which she can easily swim out. Make sure the male can see the female's container, which may stimulate him to start building a bubble nest. Detect attraction between the bettas. Observe the bettas to discern if there is any interest between the pair such as fin fanning. This can not only help you figure out if the bettas need new mates, but also if the female is ready to release her eggs. Watch for flaring or fanning of the fins, which is a good sign of interest between the mating pair of bettas. Be aware that it can take 4-5 for bettas to show interest in their mate. Recognize the bubble nest. If your bettas show interest in one another, you may see the male create a bubble nest. This is a sign to release the female her separate enclosure within the breeding tank. Be aware that the male may release his bubble nest on the hurricane glass or Styrofoam cup and the female may lay her eggs before she is released from the hurricane glass or Styrofoam cup. This is normal and not a cause for worry. Lay the female on the bubble nest. When your male betta creates his bubble nest, he may also try and attract the female with fin flaring. If she doesn't move from her spot, put the female on top of the bubble nest to make sure she lays her eggs within the protective bubbles. Check to make sure the female is ready to release eggs. This is evident when she has vertical stripes on each side of her body. Place the female on or near the bubble nest so she can lay eggs even if she released some eggs in her container. Take the female out of the tank. Once she's laid her eggs, remove the female from the breeding tank. Put her back in her usual tank, which can prevent injury to her from the very devoted male betta. Be aware that a female may lie still for a few moments after laying her eggs. Male bettas may also chase females away from the bubble nest when they're done laying eggs. Put the female in her old tank or consider letting her rest for a few days in a hospital or holding tank. Treat wounds. Bettas are easily injured in the mating process. Check for torn fins after they mate to prevent disease or death. Add a commercial water treatment such as MarOxy or Bettamax to prevent disease in recently bred bettas. Buy the water treatments at a pet stores or a specialty fish supplier. Separate the fish if you notice significant stress or wounding. See eggs develop into fry. After about three days, check to see if the eggs have hatched. The fry, which have the appearance of little black dots, will also have little tails. Watching for the development of fry signals you to remove the male betta, which can maintain the safety and health of the fry. Put the male back in his tank or a hospital tank for a few days. Feed the fry once they're swimming freely. Fry get “infusoria,” which is easily made by placing a lightly boiled potato in a jar of aquarium water for 2 days to culture the microscopic animals. Put some of the infusoria water in the tank with the fry 2 times a day. Allow the fry to stay together for about 7 months. If you wait longer, they may start to fight and injure one another and flaring with one another. Look over the spawn. If you want to breed bettas that recently hatched, choose the best male and female from the spawn to continue breeding once the bettas are old enough. Consider selling the rest of the bettas, though you may want to keep the second best male and second best female as back up in case one pair doesn't work. Keep track of the parentage of each new group as well as which bettas you plan to breed based on the traits you want to enhance. Remember that by taking the best spawn from each generation of breeding, that you are one step closer to bringing out your chosen traits. Introduce new genes. Although you should inbreed as much as possible to get the traits you want, you will eventually need to start the process over again and introduce new genes. Purchase a new male or female betta that look similar to your line. Breed the individual with your fish and then continue to inbreed the new fry. Get your new betta from a reputable breeder. Consider swapping your young betta for one of theirs as a form of payment. This can be beneficial to you and the other breeder. Repeat the process. Inbreed bettas for six generations before introducing new genes. This can help bring out great coloring and finnage on your bettas' generational lines. Be aware that it can take years of breeding to get the exact color or finnage you want from your bettas. Remember to be patient and keep breeding.
Buy bettas from one breeder. Choose your optimal betta pair. Check the size. Examine the fins. Combine complementary colors. Have a large tank. Ensure high water quality. Use a gentle water filter. Provide hiding spots for females. Check for health problems. Feed your bettas. Introduce the betta mates. Place the male in the breeding tank. Put the female betta in the breeding tank. Detect attraction between the bettas. Recognize the bubble nest. Lay the female on the bubble nest. Take the female out of the tank. Treat wounds. See eggs develop into fry. Look over the spawn. Introduce new genes. Repeat the process.
https://www.wikihow.com/Sing-Like-a-Professional
How to Sing Like a Professional
To sing like a professional, focus on standing straight and tall when you sing to improve your breathing. Start with vocal exercises like doing major or minor scales to help protect your voice. Then, when you sing the notes, extend them by using your abdominal muscles to breathe in quickly and exhale slowly. When you're ready to try singing a song, choose one with a steady beat and sing along. Make sure you're singing in key by listening to the song as you sing to see if your voice blends in with the music.
Keep your neck straight when you sing so you can breathe properly. If you lift your head up, your vocal cords stretch with the movement and your voice may get strained faster. Your tone will likely be off and sound altered as well. To prevent this, always keep your neck straight with your head comfortably facing forwards. This is proper singing form. This also keeps your vocal cords relaxed, so you can hit all the high notes ! Maintain good posture to maintain proper singing form. Before you sing, straighten your back, and square your shoulders. Don't overstrain yourself so you are uncomfortable, but support your diaphragm by standing straight and tall. Good posture results in good breathing techniques, which is crucial when singing like a professional. If you don't have proper posture, you may not be able to develop a full range of major and minor scales, for instance. Avoid being too rigid or stiff. You want to stand up straight, but don't lock your knees or constrict your muscles. To practice good posture, try standing against a wall or lying on your back while singing. Sing from your diaphragm to control your airflow. To do this, use your abdominal muscles to breathe from your belly or diaphragm region. Inhale quickly and deeply, and then exhale slowly and steadily. This breath cycle allows you to let out rich notes with ease. Singing with your lungs full of air helps you maintain your pitch and extend your notes for longer. Professional singers have superb air flow regulation, so they can bust out solos or sing 1 note for a long time. Warm up before you start to preserve your singing voice. Professionals take care of their voice to keep it in optimal condition. To do this, always start with a vocal warm-up before you sing. A warm-up is an exercise designed to prepare the voice and body for singing. You can do things like roll your lips and practice major and minor scales. To roll your lips, relax them and blow air through your mouth to get them to vibrate. Then, change your pitch to stretch your vocal cords. This keeps you relaxed while still getting your muscles moving. There are countless warm-up video tutorials online if you need additional resources. Find a singing mentor or instructor to get professional assistance. One-on-one coaching is a great way to take your singing skills to the next level. You can find a local instructor by searching online or asking your peers for recommendations. In addition, many singers offer virtual, video instruction options. Find a lesson plan that works with your schedule. While this is not required, it helps you learn new skills and get a professional opinion. Having someone else listen to your voice and offer feedback is extremely helpful when developing your skills. Even professional singers, like Celine Dion, have vocal coaches! Sing for several 30-minute sessions a day to practice regularly. The best way to improve your singing voice is to sing as much as you can. To do this, set aside a short practice session every day. You can also sing throughout your day to maintain your skills and work on new abilities. Sing your favorite song, or learn the lyrics to a new one. Over time, your voice may become clearer and stronger. If your schedule permits it, sing for 1-3 hours a day! Be sure to take a 30-minute break after each 30-minute singing session to allow your voice to rest. During the break, memorize lyrics, work on your posture, or practice breath control. If you have an important event coming up, don't strain your voice the night before. Instead of a massive practice session, sing for just a few minutes as a warm-up. Practice your scales and octaves regularly. Start with a "C" note, and sing all of the notes in the scale until you reach "C" in the next octave. Then, do this for the next octave of notes. You can listen to video tutorials or use an app like Sing-Sharp to follow along with the pitch. This helps you practice singing higher and lower notes and develop your range. For best results, practice your scales every day. You can do this as part of your warm-up exercises. Use a familiar song or digital tuner to make sure you sing in tune. This is super important when singing like a professional. To check this, play a song with a steady beat, and sing along with the melody. If you are on key, your voice will easily blend in with the music. If you are off key, your voice will sound harsh and unpleasant. In addition, you can use a digital tuner you help you. When the tuner plays a note, and sing the tone and match it to the best of your ability. The tuner indicates if you are singing too high or too low, and then adjust your pitch as needed. There are also apps, like Sing-scope, that you can use in place of a tuner. If your tone is off, then your singing voice may sound sloppy and unprofessional. Record your singing voice with a microphone to track your progress. You can use a smartphone, computer microphone, or an online song recorder. Sing a song you are very familiar with, and then listen to the song after you record it. Listen for mistakes and places for improvement, and also note what you did well. To use your smartphone, look for the “Microphone” app on your phone to get started. To use your computer , click on the “Start” button and search for “Microphone” on your application list. You can also use sites like https://online-voice-recorder.com/. Maintain a healthy lifestyle to protect your voice. Singing like a professional starts with taking care of yourself. Always drink 8 glasses of water a day, as your voice sounds best when you are hydrated. Don't smoke cigarettes , and avoid foods that affect your voice, such as milk, alcohol, coffee, and nuts. These are harsh on the throat and can alter your singing voice. In addition, avoid singing when you have a cold or your throat feels scratchy. Let your voice rest, and drink some warm tea with honey. Master the basics so you are confident in your abilities. To develop your basic skills, you must practice regularly and be dedicated. The more effort you put in, the more confident and free your voice will sound. This takes time, but it makes a big difference when singing like a pro. Have patience with yourself! Singing like a professional doesn't happen overnight. Look for new learning opportunities often to expand your horizons. You'll feel more confident and capable if you can sing a wide variety of songs and hit many different notes. To do this, learn new songs after you nail your favorites. Try different singing exercises to reinforce new abilities. There are countless online resources, including videos and song samples. You can also look for jobs or recreational activities that require you to sing frequently. Have your own unique voice and don’t be shy with it. Professional singers know their personal voice and aren't afraid to use it! As you practice your singing voice, you will naturally develop your own style, tone, and sound. When you get a feel for this, run with it If you try to be anyone but yourself, you will put extra pressure on yourself and not get the results you want. While looking to singing legends can help inspire and motivate you, avoid striving to sound just like them. If you are doubting your voice or are unsure of your own style, keep practicing. The more you develop your skills, the easier this will come to you. Pick a song you know very well so you can sound your best. The more comfortable you are with your song choice, the better you can deliver the song. Choose a song you have practiced many times and know by heart. Knowing the song well helps alleviate any anxiety or stage fright as you get ready to perform. If you pick a song you haven't practiced much, you may wind up forgetting a part or not hitting all the right notes. Captivate your audience by matching the tone of your song. Great vocal technique is part of singing well, but the delivery of your song makes the performance special. To do this, think about the lyrics or melody you are singing, and embody the emotions as best as you can. In addition, you can dance and move to the beat to deliver an authentic performance. For example, if you are singing a melancholy song, think about times you've felt sad or disappointed, and infuse your song with these emotions. Feel them in your heart, and sing in a way to reflect them. Pick a song that has meaning to you, so you can easily embody the theme or emotions of the track. While you're performing, keep in mind why the lyrics are important to you and why you want to share this song. If you sing great but don't seem connected to the song, your performance will seem staccato. Keep going if you make a mistake. If you are in a performance and you miss a note or sing out of key, that's okay! Simply keep going as if nothing happened. Sing the next note or improvise by changing your pitch. If you don't draw attention to the mistake, the audience likely won't even notice the error. If you stop and draw attention to the mistake, people will realize something is wrong.
Keep your neck straight when you sing so you can breathe properly. Maintain good posture to maintain proper singing form. Sing from your diaphragm to control your airflow. Warm up before you start to preserve your singing voice. Find a singing mentor or instructor to get professional assistance. Sing for several 30-minute sessions a day to practice regularly. Practice your scales and octaves regularly. Use a familiar song or digital tuner to make sure you sing in tune. Record your singing voice with a microphone to track your progress. Maintain a healthy lifestyle to protect your voice. Master the basics so you are confident in your abilities. Look for new learning opportunities often to expand your horizons. Have your own unique voice and don’t be shy with it. Pick a song you know very well so you can sound your best. Captivate your audience by matching the tone of your song. Keep going if you make a mistake.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Lemon-or-Lime-Water
How to Make Lemon or Lime Water
Before you make your lemon or lime water, chill a pitcher in the freezer for several hours or a day. Then, wash 2 lemons or 3 limes and slice them thinly. Squeeze all of the slices gently into the pitcher, then place the slices inside. Next, pour the water into the pitcher and chill it for 2 hours. Finish by scooping out the lemons and serving.
Chill your pitcher. Put a large glass pitcher in the freezer several hours or up to a day before you plan to make the lemon or lime water. This will keep the water colder for longer. If you're serving the water in a plastic pitcher, there's no need to chill it before hand. Chilling the pitcher gives it a frosty look that's perfect for cooling down guests on a hot summer day. You can also place glasses in the freezer so that each of your guests has a drink that is as refreshing as possible. Wash and slice the citrus. Wash 2 lemons or 3 large limes. Remove any stickers from the fruit and place the citrus on a small cutting board. Use a small knife to carefully slice the fruit into thin slices. You may want to discard the ends of the fruit as well as any seeds. Squeeze the lemons and put them in the pitcher. Gently squeeze the lemons (and limes, if you're using them) so they release a little juice and essential oil directly into the chilled pitcher. Don't squeeze them so much that the slices lose their round shape. Place all of the slices in the pitcher. Fill the pitcher with water. If you'd like still water, pour in 2 quarts (1.9 liters) of cold, filtered water. If you'd like sparkling water, pour in 1 quart (0.9 liters) of seltzer water. Use a long-handled spoon to stir the citrus slices with the water. For sparkling water, you'll add another quart of seltzer just before serving. Chill the citrus water. Put the pitcher of citrus water into the refrigerator. Chilling the water will infuse it with the lemon and lime flavors while making it colder. Chill the water for 2 to 4 hours. Keep in mind that the flavors of the water will be stronger the longer it chills. Remove the lemons and serve the lemon water. Scoop out the lemon slices and consider straining the lemon water through a mesh sieve if you notice seeds. If you want sparkling lemon water, add one more quart (0.9 liter) of seltzer water to the pitcher.Pour the citrus water into serving glasses. Add a few fresh slices of lemon or lime and ice cubes before you serve the drinks. Store the lemon water for up to 2 days in the refrigerator. You can add fresh water to the sliced lemons that you removed from the pitcher, but the second batch of citrus water may not be as flavorful. Include other fruits. Add a pop of color and bright flavor to your lemon water by adding a handful of fresh berries to the pitcher. Wash the fruit carefully, and if any stems remain, remove them. You can also slice fresh fruit and add it to the pitcher. Consider adding: Strawberries Pineapple Fresh berries (blueberries, blackberries, raspberries) Oranges Peaches or plums Melon (watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew) Add vegetables. You can easily make cucumber lemon water by thinly slicing and adding cucumber to your citrus water. The cucumber will stay crisp for hours and can add a refreshing flavor to the water. For a slightly spicy kick, consider slicing jalapeños and adding them to the lemon water. Add fresh herbs to the water. Make your lemon water interesting by adding fresh herbs before chilling the water. Gather a handful of fresh herbs and rub them a little between your fingers. This will release flavorful oils. Remember to wash the herbs before you use them. Try mint, basil, lavender, thyme, or rosemary. You can also add hibiscus flower which will turn the water a soft pink color. Sweeten the lemon water. If you dislike the strong flavor of lemon water, you may want to sweeten it a little before you drink it. Keep in mind that adding other fruits (such as strawberries or pineapple) can naturally sweeten the citrus water. Stir in a little honey according to your taste. You could also use agave nectar or stir in grated ginger to mask the sour flavor of the water.
Chill your pitcher. Wash and slice the citrus. Squeeze the lemons and put them in the pitcher. Fill the pitcher with water. Chill the citrus water. Remove the lemons and serve the lemon water. Include other fruits. Add vegetables. Add fresh herbs to the water. Sweeten the lemon water.
https://www.wikihow.com/Look-Tough
How to Look Tough
Looking tough is all about wearing rugged clothes, talking with confidence, and acting like you mean business! If you want to toughen up your outfit, try wearing a classic leather jacket, ripped jeans, and a silver chain. For a tough outdoorsy look, rock a loose-fitting flannel with jeans and a bandana. Alternatively, try wearing camo, chunky combat boots, and a band t-shirt. Once you have a tough outfit, you'll need to act the part! Tough people rarely smile, so scowl as much as possible. Speak with confidence and walk with large steps and your chest out. If you want to be even tougher, consider taking some martial arts lessons, like Kung Fu, Karate, or Taekwondo.
Find a tough icon. There are lots of different types of tough. There's corporate tough, like Don Draper. There's rap tough, like Gucci Mane. There's metal tough, like Lemmy from Motorhead. Depending on what kind of style you want to have and how you want to toughen yourself up, it's a good idea to pick a tough icon. Here are some classics: Tough men: Clint Eastwood, Sonny Barger, Kimbo Slice, Bear Grylls, Sebastian Junger Tough women: Ronda Rousey, Lil' Kim, Serena Williams, Joan Jett, Courtney Love, Margaret Thatcher Wear a leather jacket. From bikers to rockers, there's typically nothing that can make you tough easier than a leather jacket. Go for a classic fur-lined bomber jacket in black or brown, or a more modern tailored style if you're interested in something more stylish. Leather jackets always look cool. If you're vegan, or just aren't a big fan of the idea of wearing leather, most cheap leather jackets aren't actually leather anyway, but a faux-leather cotton-polyurethane combination. You can still look tough without buying real leather. Typically, used leather jackets tend to look a little more tough. If you've got that nice worn leather look, it'll look like you've been around the block a few times. Wear ripped denim. New denim? Cool. Denim that's worn out and looks like it was run through the gravel? Super cool. Denim that looks like a shark got a hold of it, and ripped it all up? Tough. Denim jackets, shirts, and jeans are all cool, no matter what the style, but if you've got some that looks a little ragged, you're going to look tough. Buy denim that fits according to your personal tough style. Go tight if you want a tough rocker look, or baggy if you want more of a modern tough style. Try flannel. Even if you live in the city, flannel shirts will make you look like you're ready to chop down pine trees and swill whiskey like a lumberjack. Rock a loose-fitting, old-school flannel shirt over a sleeveless undershirt, or solo, and you'll get people's attention as a tough outdoorsy type. Flannel look really good as a baggy shirt, but can also look punk printed on pants. Only tight pants, though, for women. Wear a lot of leather. If you're vegan, fine. Some stores sell vegan leather, but that can be harder find. Leather skinny pants look extra tough and edgy. Wear some old military or hunting gear. What's tougher than a soldier? Hit up an army surplus store, a tactical outfitter, or a sporting goods store in your area for your clothes instead of the mall. If you're rocking Carhartt and camo, you're going to look tough, wherever you live, however old you are, and whatever you do. If you wear camo from WW2 or Vietnam you will look more tough and will have people asking about it. Old army jackets and pants are also typically kind of ripped up looking and cheap, both added bonuses for someone who wants to look tough. Outfit an old army jacket with band patches and other stuff to look like a tough punk. Wear some tough footwear. Depending on the kind of look you want to have, there are a variety of different kinds of tough footwear that you can pull off, boy or girl, tough or not. Shoes can be surprisingly effective in getting your tough look to come together. In terms of sneakers, the simpler, the better. Chuck Taylors in plain black, plain white Keds, or those thickly padded skater shoes with the long tongue and laces, are both tough looks, especially compared to some New Balance. In terms of boots, some chunky Doc Martens, Timberlands, or some other variety of big combat boot will help you look tough. Get some tough accessories. A few simple accessories can kick up your toughness levels a couple notches. As long as you don't take it too far, along with other tough-attire, the following little accessories can help you look tough: Thick, short silver chain necklace Skull ring Nose ring Leather cuff Bandana Band t-shirts Make little changes, not huge ones. If one day you're wearing a polo shirt and cargo shorts and you show up at school the next day with a whole camo get-up and combat boots, you'll probably turn heads, but not necessarily the good way. Take little steps in cultivating your tough look. Try making one little change every week, to let people get used to the changes. Start with a new jacket, or a new accessory, and start moving slowly, collecting more tough gear as you go. Get in shape. If you've want to look like you can drink nails for breakfast and skateboard across coals on your bare feet, you've got to do a little work on the ol' physique. Even if you can't fight to save your life, a decent physique should help you avoid confrontation in the first place. If it's been a while since you've exercised, or you're not a big fan of working out, start slow. Just start taking walks that last for at least 30 or 40 minutes a few times a week, after work or school. Slowly expand your walk area, getting your walks longer and longer. Try doing 30 minutes of cardio workouts 3-5 times a week, when you start getting into shape. This helps to cut the fat quickly and increase your metabolism. You know what's tough? Eating kale. If you want to really be tough, diet right and increase the number of lean proteins, fresh vegetables and fruits, and whole grains in your diet, and avoid processed foods, fried food, and fattening stuff. Get cut, and get tough. Change your hair. There's no one tough look for hair, but guys and girls can both look tough with long styles and short styles, depending on the kind of look you're going for. Longer hair works for rocker looks in guys and can look tough especially if you grease it back and make it look ominous. Think Gordon Gecko and Pat Riley. For girls, longish unkempt hair can look rocker tough. Short hair works to look tough, especially if it's very short. Mohawks on guys and girls can look punk and military at the same time. If you shave your head bald no one can grab your hair in a fight since there is no hair to grab. That's tough. For women, wear tough makeup. Wear some heavy black eyeshadow, dark red or black lipstick, and thick black eyeliner. Contour your cheekbones. Women with more defined cheekbones and jawlines are seen as tough. Grow out your facial hair. Beards make a guy look like he can start a fire in the wilderness, run wild through the woods with his buddies, chop down a tree with the edge of his hand, and then sit down for a breakfast of bear bones. Grow one. For girls, growing leg hair or other body hair can look tough sometimes, or it can look kind of hippie, which isn't a particularly tough look. It's up to you. Give it a shot. Make your resting face a scowl. Train yourself to make your resting face a tough, thousand-yard stare. You want to look like those eyes have seen things the other kiddies won't understand. You want to look like you've been places. If and when you laugh, it should be once, and with a kind of smirk, as if to say, "Yeah, that's amusing to me, although I'd rather be greasing the grain on my motorcycle." Frown with your eyes, turning your brows down, and pursing your lips slightly, so you look like you're smelling something that stinks. Make it subtle, or you'll probably look like you just farted. Get a tattoo. It's not a secret, tattoos look tough, and they also communicate that you're able to take a certain amount of pain. What could be tougher than that? Tattoos are permanent, so you want to give some thought to what kind of a tough design you want to go with before you're left with a Smurf on your lower back for life. The more classic, the better. Anchors? Skulls? Daggers? Dragons? Those are some tough-looking tattoos. They'll always remind you of your inner toughness. Talk tough. Any idiot can raise their voice and scream. But if you want to be tough, you have to talk tough, looking someone right in the eye and speaking with the conviction of a super-tough hombre. Think of Michael Corleone from the Godfather, or Eastwood from Dirty Harry. They don't seem intimidating at first glance, but when they speak, there is ice in their veins. Learn to do the same. Try not to yell. Yelling betrays that you're feeling weak. Instead, speak cool and icily, with tough confidence, especially when you're feeling upset. Learn to fight. What better way to act tough than actually learning to be tough, in mind, body, and spirit. Consider taking up a martial art, like Kung Fu, Karate, Taekwondo, Jiu-jitsu, Judo, or Muay Thai, or practice self defense styles like Hapkido or Mixed Martial arts. Krav Maga is another highly effective fighting style and is used by military everywhere. This is also a very good way to get into shape. Find out what's available in your area and take intro lessons. Even just starting to learn can help give you a little tough confidence, and might give you some skills necessary to defend yourself. Listen to tough music. One Direction's not going to do much to get you in a tough state of mind. If you want to start adopting a tough attitude, listen to some heavy music that'll get you in the proper state of mind more quickly. Here are some tough acts that you can check out or work out to, to get you feeling tough: High on Fire Public Enemy Swans Pharmakon Nails Chief Keef Cheater Slicks Oblivians Flesh of the Stars Napalm Death Walk with a purpose. While it might feel slightly ridiculous at first, you can train yourself to walk more confidently, which will communicate that you're not a meek little thing to be messed with, you're a tough person. It's not hard, with some practice, and mostly just involves walking with good posture. Take slightly larger steps than usual, and puff out your chest just a tiny bit, rolling your shoulders back. Keep your head up. Do this very slightly because if you exaggerate too much, it may look ridiculous. Walk at a constant speed, not looking like you're worried about being in people's way. Don't worry about getting out of anyone's way in the hallway, just walk like you're in charge and they'll clear the way for you. Hang out with others who are tougher than you. Hanging out with other tough looking people will serve two purposes. One, you can let some of that toughness rub off on you, and you'll look tougher for your association with other people who can't be messed with. There's safety in numbers, especially when everyone looks tough. Don't hang out with anyone who engages in stupid or risky behavior. Driving recklessly or doing illegal things doesn't make you look tough, it makes you look like someone who's about to get arrested. Don't mistake self-destruction for toughness. It's one thing to look tough, but it's quite another to start doing things you know you shouldn't do because you think it will get people to respect you. If you're hanging out with people who make you think you need to do illegal or risky things to be "tough," find other friends to hang out with. Smoking cigarettes may seem "tough" at first, because it's disgusting, but there's nothing tough about being hooked up to oxygen tanks and coughing your lungs out later in life. Even tough guys will tell you that much. Alcohol and drugs are likewise problems for people who think they're shortcuts to toughness. They aren't. Be tough in your mind, not by taking risks with addictive substances that will incapacitate you.
Find a tough icon. Wear a leather jacket. Wear ripped denim. Try flannel. Wear some old military or hunting gear. Wear some tough footwear. Get some tough accessories. Make little changes, not huge ones. Get in shape. Change your hair. Grow out your facial hair. Make your resting face a scowl. Get a tattoo. Talk tough. Learn to fight. Listen to tough music. Walk with a purpose. Hang out with others who are tougher than you. Don't mistake self-destruction for toughness.
https://www.wikihow.com/Find-the-Circumference-and-Area-of-a-Circle
How to Find the Circumference and Area of a Circle
To find the circumference of a circle, take its diameter times pi, which is 3.14. For example, if the diameter of a circle is 10 centimeters, then its circumference is 31.4 centimeters. If you only know the radius, which is half the length of the diameter, you can take the radius times 2 pi, or 6.28. In the example above, the radius would be 5 centimeters, so 5 centimeters times 6.28 is the same 31.4 centimeters.
Learn the formula for circumference. There are two formulas that can be used to calculate the circumference of a circle: C = 2πr or C = πd , where π is the mathematical constant approximately equal to 3.14, r is equal to the radius, and d is equal to the diameter. Because the radius of a circle is equal to twice its diameter, these equations are essentially the same. The units for circumference can be any unit for the measure of length: feet, miles, meters, centimeters, etc. Understand the different parts of the formula. There are three components to finding circumference of a circle: radius, diameter, and π. The radius and diameter are related: the radius is equal to half the diameter, while the diameter is equal to double the radius. The radius ( r ) of a circle is the distance from one point on the circle to the center of the circle. The diameter ( d ) of a circle is the distance from one point on the circle to another directly opposite it, going through the circle's center. The Greek letter pi (π) represents the ratio of the circumference divided by the diameter and is represented by the number 3.14159265…, an irrational number that has neither a final digit nor a recognizable pattern of repeating digits. This number is commonly rounded to 3.14 for basic calculations. Measure the radius or diameter of the circle. Using a ruler, place one end at one side of the circle and place it through the center point to the other side of the circle. The distance to the center of the circle is the radius, while the distance to the other end of the circle is the diameter. In most textbook math problems, the radius or diameter is given to you. Plug in the variables and solve. Once you have determined the radius and/or diameter of the circle, you can plug these variables into the appropriate equation. If you have the radius, use C = 2πr , but if you have the diameter, use C = πd. For example: What is the circumference of a circle with a radius of 3 cm? Write the formula: C = 2πr Plug in the variables: C = 2π3 Multiply through: C = (2*3*π) = 6π = 18.84 cm For example: What is the circumference of a circle with a diameter of 9 m? Write the formula: C = πd Plug in the variables: C = 9π Multiply through: C = (9*π) = 28.26 m Practice with a few examples. Now that you've learned the formula, it's time to practice with a few examples. The more problems you solve, the easier it becomes to solve them in the future. Find the circumference of a circle with a diameter of 5 ft. C = πd = 5π = 15.7 ft Find the circumference of a circle with a radius of 10 ft. C = 2πr = C = 2π10 = 2 * 10 * π = 62.8 ft. Learn the formula for area of a circle. The area of a circle can be calculated using the diameter or the radius with two different formulas: A = πr or A = π(d/2) , where π is the mathematical constant approximately equal to 3.14, r is equal to the radius, and d is the diameter. Because the radius of a circle is equal to half its diameter, these equations are essentially the same. The units for area can be any unit for the measure of length squared: feet squared (ft ), meters squared (m ), centimeters squared (cm ), etc. Understand the different parts of the formula. There are three components to finding circumference of a circle: radius, diameter, and π. The radius and diameter are related: the radius is equal to half the diameter, while the diameter is equal to double the radius. The radius ( r ) of a circle is the distance from one point on the circle to the center of the circle. The diameter ( d ) of a circle is the distance from one point on the circle to another directly opposite it, going through the circle's center. The Greek letter pi (π) represents the ratio of the circumference divided by the diameter and is represented by the number 3.14159265…, an irrational number that has neither a final digit nor a recognizable pattern of repeating digits. This number is commonly rounded to 3.14 for basic calculations. Measure the radius or diameter of the circle. Using a ruler, place one end at one side of the circle and place it through the center point to the other side of the circle. The distance to the center of the circle is the radius, while the distance to the other end of the circle is the diameter. In most textbook math problems, the radius or diameter is given to you. Plug in the variables and solve. Once you have determined the radius and/or diameter of the circle, you can plug these variables into the appropriate equation. If you have the radius, use A = πr , but if you have the diameter, use A = π(d/2). For example: What is the area of a circle with a radius of 3 m? Write the formula: A = πr Plug in the variables: A = π3 Square the radius: r = 3 = 9 Multiply by pi: A = 9π = 28.26 m For example: What is the area of a circle with a diameter of 4 m? Write the formula: A = π(d/2) Plug in the variables: A = π(4/2) Divide the diameter by 2: d/2 = 4/2 = 2 Square the result: 2 = 4 Multiply by pi: A = 4π = 12.56 m Practice with a few examples. Now that you've learned the formula, it's time to practice with a few examples. The more problems you solve, the easier it becomes to solve them in the future. Find the area of a circle with a diameter of 7 ft. A = π(d/2) = π(7/2) = π(3.5) = 12.25 * π= 38.47 ft. Find the area of a circle with a radius of 3 ft. A = πr = π3 = 9 * π = 28.26 ft Determine the radius or diameter of the circle. Some problems may give you a radius or diameter that has a variable in it: r = (x + 7) or d = (x + 3). In this case, you can still solve for the area or circumference, but your final answer will also have that variable in it. Write down the radius or diameter as it is stated in the problem. For example: Calculate the circumference of a circle with a radius of (x = 1). Write the formula with the information given. Whether you are solving for area or circumference, you will still follow the basic steps of plugging in what you know. Write down the formula for area or circumference and then write in the variables given. For example: Calculate the circumference of a circle with a radius of (x + 1). Write the formula: C = 2πr Plug in the given information: C = 2π(x+1) Solve as if the variable were a number. At this point, you can just solve the problem as you normally would, treating the variable as if it were just another number. You may need to use the distributive property to simplify the final answer. For example: Calculate the circumference of a circle with a radius of (x = 1). C = 2πr = 2π(x+1) = 2πx + 2π1 = 2πx +2π = 6.28x + 6.28 If you are given the value of “x” later in the problem, you can plug it in and get a whole number answer. Practice with a few examples. Now that you've learned the formula, it's time to practice with a few examples. The more problems you solve, the easier it becomes to solve them in the future. Find the area of a circle with a radius of 2x. A = πr = π(2x) = π4x = 12.56x Find the area of a circle with a diameter of (x + 2). A = π(d/2) = π((x +2)/2) = ((x +2) /4)π
Learn the formula for circumference. Understand the different parts of the formula. Measure the radius or diameter of the circle. Plug in the variables and solve. Practice with a few examples. Learn the formula for area of a circle. Understand the different parts of the formula. Measure the radius or diameter of the circle. Plug in the variables and solve. Practice with a few examples. Determine the radius or diameter of the circle. Write the formula with the information given. Solve as if the variable were a number. Practice with a few examples.
https://www.wikihow.com/Plant-Wildflowers
How to Plant Wildflowers
To plant wildflowers, wait until the spring for varieties that aren't winter-hardy or the fall for varieties that do well in cooler temperatures. When you're ready to plant your wildflower seeds, choose an outdoor spot with well-draining soil that gets full sun or a little bit of shade. Then, mix 1 part wildflower seeds with 4 parts sand and sprinkle them over the soil, raking them into the top layer of the soil so they germinate. Finally, water the ground lightly every 2-3 days for 4-6 weeks so the soil stays moist.
Plant annual wildflowers if you want fast-blooming plants. Annual wildflowers grow and bloom 2-3 months after their seeds are planted, but usually die after 1 season. These flowers bloom for about 2 months before dying with the first frost. Choose from popular options like: Zinnias, which have bright pink daisy-like blooms Orange cosmos, flowers with vibrant orange petals and yellow centers Prairie asters, small flowers with delicate purple petals Evening primroses, small, cup-shaped blooms that are usually yellow or pink African daisies, which may have orange, pink, purple, red, white, or yellow petals Grow perennial wildflowers for slow but long-lasting plants. Perennial wildflowers will not bloom until a full season after they are planted, but they can last for decades. Perennials only bloom for about 2 weeks a year, but their roots are winter-hardy and produce growth annually. Plant interesting perennial wildflowers like: Blanket flowers, which are similar to sunflowers with red and yellow petals Blazing star flowers, which have unique, long purple blooms Forget-me-nots, small flowers with rounded blue petals Wild yarrow flowers, which have clusters of tiny white blooms Coneflowers, yellow or blue blooms also known as echinacea Cultivate biennial wildflowers if you want plants with a 2 year life-cycle. Biennial wildflowers bloom in their second season like perennials, but the flowers die with the first frost the way that annual wildflowers do. Biennial wildflowers seed heavily so there is a good chance of them developing into perennials. Plant beautiful biennial choices like: Foxgloves, flowers with tall stems and purple, bell-shaped blooms Chicory flowers, delicate blue flowers in the dandelion family Sweet William flowers, which have white blooms with fuschia-colored centers Hollyhocks, flowers that bloom on tall stems in a variety of colors Choose a spot that gets full sun or partial shade. Wildflowers require sunlight to grow. Unlike other plants, they can thrive in soil that is partially dry and rarely suffer from heat damage. Choose a spot to plant them that gets full exposure to the sun, or only partial shade. Baby blue eyes, wildflowers that are sensitive to heat, are a rare exception to this rule and require partial to full shade. Apply a non-residual, post-emergent herbicide to remove existing weeds. Target weeds that have already grown in the soil by applying a herbicide designed to kill existing weeds. Choose a brand that is non-residual, meaning it will be deactivated in the soil a few days after it is used. Spray the herbicide evenly over weeds to avoid killing any other nearby plants or grasses that you want to keep. Pre-emergent herbicide, on the other hand, is used to treat the soil before weeds emerge to prevent their seeds from growing. Test your soil to see if it drains well. Most species of wildflowers thrive in well-drained soil. Determine how well-drained your soil is by digging a hole that is 12–18 inches (30–46 cm) wide and 12–18 inches (30–46 cm) deep. Fill the hole with water. If it takes more than an hour for the water to drain, you have poorly drained soil. Aerate the soil if it is poorly drained by adding an organic soil amendment. Till the top 8 inches (20 cm) of the soil with a rake or shovel to break it up. Add a 2 inches (5.1 cm) layer of organic soil amendment such as sand, vermiculite, perlite, or compost on top of the soil. Work it into the soil evenly. The organic soil amendment should make up 25-50% of the total volume of the soil. Less than 25% will not aerate the soil properly and more than 50% may deter plant growth. Purchase organic soil amendment materials at a local garden center or hardware store. Test the PH level of your soil. Purchase a PH test kit from a garden center or online to measure the acidity and the alkalinity of the soil. Scoop up a small amount of soil from the surface of your garden and sprinkle it onto the mixing card from your kit. Add a few drops of indicator dye and dust the soil with the white powder in the kit. Wait for the color to change for your results The color change should take about 30 seconds. Use the color chart provided in the kit to find the PH level of your soil. Use a nitrogen fertilizer to raise the soil PH level to 6-6.5. If your soil's PH level is too low, apply a nitrate-based nitrogen fertilizer to treat it. Purchase the fertilizer at a garden center, hardware store, or online. Till the fertilizer into the soil with a gardening rake or shovel. Apply elemental sulfur to lower the PH level of the soil to 6-6.5. Soil with a high PH level requires more acidity. Purchase elemental sulfur from a garden center, hardware store, or online and till it into the soil as directed. Do this at least 2 months before planting your seeds as the sulfur needs time to take effect. Buy “nursery propagated” seeds from a local nursery. Shop at local nurseries for wildflower seeds to ensure that you get species that will grow well in your climate zone. Ask for seeds that are "nursery propagated" instead of "nursery grown." This will ensure that the seeds were derived from local plant populations. If you are buying seeds in the U.S., find native plant nurseries by visiting the Wildflower Center's suppliers directory at https://www.wildflower.org/suppliers/. Plant seeds in the spring or early autumn. Species of wildflowers that are not winter-hardy should be planted between March and May so they have time to germinate before the summer comes. Species that do better in cooler temperatures should be planted between September and November, or in autumn before the first frost. Seeds that are planted after November will usually lie dormant until the following spring. Only species that are very resistant to hot weather should be planted in the summer as the heat will prevent seed germination for some wildflowers. Plant one species of wildflowers at a time. The seeds for different species of wildflowers vary in weight and size, which can make them difficult to spread evenly if grouped together. Offset this problem by planting the seeds for each species one at a time. Apply them all uniformly over the same space to create a mix of flowers, or plant them in their own spots for varied looks across your garden. Hand-broadcast a mix of sand and seeds over the soil. It can be difficult to distribute wildflowers seeds evenly when planting them. To do this, mix 1 part wildflower seeds in a container with 4 parts sand and shake them to mix them up. This will prevent the seeds from clumping together and growing in uneven patches. Rake seeds into the top layer of the soil to encourage germination. Water the ground lightly for 4-6 weeks after planting to keep it moist. Water the ground as needed to keep it moist while the seeds germinate. On average this should be every 2-3 days, or more or less depending on the weather. Do not over-water the ground, which will block the flow of oxygen to the developing root systems. Once your seedlings are 1–2 inches (2.5–5.1 cm) tall, slowly stop watering them and only provide water in very dry conditions. Fully-grown wildflowers do not need much water or care to grow and thrive. Spot-plant seeds each season to fill in bare spots in your garden. After 1-2 years, you will be able to see a clear growth pattern for your wildflowers. In the spring, take note of gaps between your wildflowers and plant seeds in these spaces by hand. Water the ground thoroughly and wait for new plants to sprout. Repeat this process each spring as needed. Bare spots may be caused by uneven seed distribution or annual flowers that did not reseed.
Plant annual wildflowers if you want fast-blooming plants. Grow perennial wildflowers for slow but long-lasting plants. Cultivate biennial wildflowers if you want plants with a 2 year life-cycle. Choose a spot that gets full sun or partial shade. Apply a non-residual, post-emergent herbicide to remove existing weeds. Test your soil to see if it drains well. Aerate the soil if it is poorly drained by adding an organic soil amendment. Test the PH level of your soil. Use a nitrogen fertilizer to raise the soil PH level to 6-6.5. Apply elemental sulfur to lower the PH level of the soil to 6-6.5. Buy “nursery propagated” seeds from a local nursery. Plant seeds in the spring or early autumn. Plant one species of wildflowers at a time. Hand-broadcast a mix of sand and seeds over the soil. Water the ground lightly for 4-6 weeks after planting to keep it moist. Spot-plant seeds each season to fill in bare spots in your garden.
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-an-Oil-Diffuser
How to Use an Oil Diffuser
Using an oil diffuser to improve the aroma of any room is an easy process. Place your diffuser near the middle of the room to let the oil distribute evenly around the space. Keep it on a flat surface to prevent anything from spilling of falling over. You'll also want to put a towel under the diffuser to catch any excess water. If your diffuser needs to be plugged in, make sure your setup is near an outlet. For an electric diffuser, lift the top off and fill the small measuring cup or glass with room-temperature water. Add 3 to 10 drops of essential oil to the water reservoir before replacing the top and turning the diffuser on.
Place your diffuser near the middle of the room. Oil diffusers will release a fine mist of water to diffuse the oils around your room. Place your diffuser near the center of your chosen room to let the oil distribute evenly around the space. Keep it on a flat surface to prevent anything from spilling or falling over while your diffuser is running. Put a towel down underneath the diffuser to catch any excess water while the diffuser runs. If the towel remains dry after the first few times using it, it probably isn't needed. You'll also need a power outlet nearby if your diffuser needs to be plugged in. Lift the top off of your diffuser. While it may differ slightly between different types of diffusers, most will have a top casing that can be lifted off to reveal the reservoir. Try rotating, popping, or even just lifting the top of your diffuser to open it and get access to the internal water tank. If you're unsure how to open your diffuser, check the manufacturer's guide for instructions specific to your diffuser. Some diffusers may have two tops that need to be removed to access the reservoir. One will normally be decorative, where the other is used to trap excess moisture. If you remove the top of your diffuser and see another casing instead of a tank, remove this interior casing as well. Fill the diffuser with room temperature water. Fill a small measuring cup or glass with water that is around room temperature, or below your body temperature. Carefully pour the water into the reservoir or internal tank of your diffuser. Check for a line or marking on the inside of the tank to indicate how much water you should pour into the tank. Rather than a line or marker, some diffusers may come with a measuring jug that holds exactly the right amount of water for the reservoir. Fill this up with water and pour it into the tank. Room temperature is around 69 °F (21 °C). Put a finger in the water to test it, looking for water that is slightly cool but not cold. Add 3 to 10 drops of essential oils to your diffuser. Unscrew the cap on your chosen essential oil and tilt it directly over the water reservoir. You may need to slightly shake it, but drops of oils should begin falling into the water. Let around 6 or 7 drops fall in before tilting the bottle back and putting the cap back on. You can combine different types of essential oils, but you should only put a maximum of 10 drops into your diffuser. Use a few drops of each oil that you want to prevent an overpowering aroma when you turn your diffuser on. Keep track of how many drops of oil you use for each operation so you can get a better sense of how much you need. For a smaller room, you might only need 3 or 4 drops. Start lower and increase the amount of oil you use until you're happy with the aroma. Replace the top of your diffuser and turn it on. Put the lid or casing of the diffuser back over the reservoir, making sure it is sitting properly. Turn the diffuser on at the wall and use the button or switch on the front of the diffuser to let it start running. Some diffusers may have multiple settings or lights that you can use to adjust its operation. Check your manufacturer's instructions if you're unsure how to make your diffuser work, or to see how to use these more advanced settings. Put your diffuser in a high traffic area of your room. As the water evaporates with the help of the candle, it'll start releasing the aroma of your chosen oil. Place the diffuser somewhere the movement of people or a gentle breeze will help distribute the oil aroma. Keep it on a flat surface, in a high-traffic and central part of the room for the best results. People moving around it will help distribute the oil, but will also increase the chance of it being knocked over. Make sure the diffuser is kept in a safe place first. Fill the reservoir with water. Fill a glass or small measuring jug with water and pour it into the reservoir on top of the diffuser. Some diffusers may have a line or indicator to guide how much water you should add to the reservoir. If not, fill it around halfway to reduce the chance of water spilling. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions for advice on your specific diffuser. Make sure you put the water in before you add any oils. Add 2 to 4 drops of essential oil to the water. Unscrew the lid of your chosen oil and tilt it over the water reservoir to begin slowly adding drops. Let 2 or 3 drops fall into the water before tilting the bottle back and putting the lid back on. Combine different oils for a more complex aroma, but avoid using more than 4 drops of oil combined in a candle diffuser. The amount of oil needed will vary based on the size of your room. Start with fewer drops and increase the amount of oil you use until you're happy with the aroma. Keep track of how many drops of oil you use for each operation so you can get a better sense of how much you need. For a smaller room, you might only need 3 or 4 drops. Start lower and increase the amount of oil you use until your happy with the aroma. Place a candle under the reservoir and light it. Place a small candle, such as a tealight or something similar, in the space underneath the reservoir. Use a match or long lighter to set the candle alight, and leave it for 3 to 4 hours to diffuse the oils. Keep an eye on your candle and diffuser as it works, to make sure the candle doesn't go out by itself. Once the water in the reservoir has mostly evaporated, or you cannot see the oil anymore, blow the candle out. Place your diffuser somewhere central in your room or home. The reed diffuser is the most passive way to diffuse oil around your home, so it needs movement to distribute the aroma around. Keep your diffuser in a high-traffic, central area of your room or home for the best results. Try placing the diffuser near the main entryway to the room, so you get a fresh hit of your chosen oil everytime you go into the room. Pour essential oil into the reservoir. Most reed diffusers will come with a bottle of oil designed of the right strength for the diffuser. Pour the oil into the mouth of the diffuser, being careful not to spill any over the sides. Unlike other diffusers, reed diffusers don't allow you to swap out new scents easily. Pick an oil that you like for long-term usage. There's no right amount of oil to pour into the diffuser. Some people will pour in the whole bottle, others will add a little at a time to keep the oil fresh. Add the reeds to the diffuser. Bunch the reeds together and carefully drop them into the mouth of the diffuser. Spread them out so they are separate and all point in different directions for a more even diffusion of oil. The oil will begin absorbing into the reeds and slowly filling your room with the aroma of the oil. The more reeds that you use, the stronger the aroma will be. For a smaller room, you may only want to use 2 or 3 reeds. Adding the reeds may cause the oil in the diffuser to overflow if it's already very full. Be careful when adding the reeds, or do so over a sink to prevent spillage. Flip the reeds to refresh the oils and the aroma. Every week or so, you may notice that the aroma from the oil begins to fade. Lift the reeds out of the diffuser and flip them over, so the end that was soaking in the oils is now facing upward. This should refresh the aroma for another week or so until you flip them again. It may help to flip the reeds over a paper towel or over your sink to catch any stray oils. Use lemon oil for a fresh, citrusy aroma. Lemon oil is one of the more popular oils for a range of products, including use as an essential oil in a diffuser. Use a few drops to fill your home with the citrusy sharpness of lemon. Some studies have even shown benefits of using lemon oil to improve your mood or to reduce stress! Use a combination of lemon, peppermint, and rosemary oil for an energizing blend of aromas. Choose cinnamon oil for a fresh-baked cinnamon roll scent. Cinnamon oil has a sweeter, warmer smell to it than lemon, and so makes a great scent for those dark winter months. Use a few drops of cinnamon oil to make your home smell like you've got cinnamon rolls in the oven all day long. Try combining orange, ginger, and cinnamon oils for an amazing fall scent perfect for Thanksgiving. Go with lavender oil for a calming, floral aroma. Lavender oil may be the most popular and the most common essential oil, but it's definitely for a good reason. Use a few drops of lavender oil to give your home a beautifully fresh and floral scent, as well as potentially helping you fall asleep if you use it in the evening. Use a mixture of lavender, grapefruit, lemon, and spearmint oil for a delightful summertime blend of aromas. Opt for peppermint oil to keep you awake and alert. The sharp, yet somewhat sweet smell of peppermint will freshen up your home and may even keep you more awake and focused. Use a few drops of peppermint oil to fill your home with a familiar, minty smell. Mix equal quantities of peppermint oil and eucalyptus oils for an aroma that will help clear your sinuses and may help you breathe better.
Place your diffuser near the middle of the room. Lift the top off of your diffuser. Fill the diffuser with room temperature water. Add 3 to 10 drops of essential oils to your diffuser. Replace the top of your diffuser and turn it on. Put your diffuser in a high traffic area of your room. Fill the reservoir with water. Add 2 to 4 drops of essential oil to the water. Place a candle under the reservoir and light it. Place your diffuser somewhere central in your room or home. Pour essential oil into the reservoir. Add the reeds to the diffuser. Flip the reeds to refresh the oils and the aroma. Use lemon oil for a fresh, citrusy aroma. Choose cinnamon oil for a fresh-baked cinnamon roll scent. Go with lavender oil for a calming, floral aroma. Opt for peppermint oil to keep you awake and alert.
https://www.wikihow.com/Eat-Coconut
How to Eat Coconut
To eat raw coconut, start by poking a sharp knife into its 3 holes to pierce it. Then, pour out the coconut water into a glass. Place the coconut on a hard surface and break it up with a hammer, since its outer shell is too hard to cut. Once it's open, separate the coconut from the shell with a butter knife. You can also peel the skin off the flesh with a peeler before eating it. If you want to eat smaller pieces of coconut, grate the fresh coconut and bake the flakes in the oven at 325 degrees Fahrenheit for 5 minutes. If you want to store coconut in the fridge to eat later, you can refrigerate it fresh for up to 5 days.
Poke into the coconut with a sharp knife. Place the coconut on a cutting board with its holes or indentations facing up. Brace the bottom of the coconut firmly with one hand, or ground it by placing it on top of a rolled up dish cloth. With the other hand, try poking a sharp knife into each of the coconut's three holes until it goes in easily. Poke the knife into the coconut just enough to create an opening, then remove it carefully. A screwdriver can be used instead of a knife to poke into the coconut. Drain the coconut water into a bowl or glass. Pick up the coconut and turn it upside down over a container. Allow it to drain it completely. Save the coconut water to drink or add to a smoothie later on. Place the coconut on a hard surface and break it up with a hammer. The outer shell of the coconut is so hard that a regular knife will not be able to cut through it. To break it, place the coconut in a clean plastic bag or large Ziploc bag and place it on a hard surface, like a concrete driveway. Use a hammer to smash the coconut until it breaks into pieces. Use a butter knife to separate the coconut flesh from the shell. Remove the broken pieces of coconut from the plastic bag and place them back on the cutting board. Turn each piece face down and brace the shell with one hand. Approach the side of the upside down coconut with a butter knife and carefully pry away the flesh from the shell. Peel off the skin from the coconut flesh with a vegetable peeler. Once all of the coconut flesh is freed from its shell, use a vegetable peeler to remove its skin. Pull off the brown fiber coating as you would a potato. Rinse the coconut flesh to remove any residue from the skin. Store fresh coconut in the fridge for 4-5 days. Place the pieces of coconut in an airtight plastic container or sealed zip lock bag. Keep them refrigerated for 4-5 days. Grate coconut into small or large pieces. Grate fresh coconut with a metal cheese grater. Use the side with smaller holes for finely shredded coconut, and the side with larger holes for bigger coconut flakes. To make larger, chip-like pieces, use a vegetable peeler. Keep grated coconut in the fridge for 1-2 days. If you grate coconut, store in in the fridge in an airtight plastic container. Try to use it within 2 days, when it will begin to go bad. Be sure to throw out any leftover grated coconut after this time. Toast coconut flakes in the oven for 5-10 minutes. Pre-heat the oven to 325 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 167 degrees Celsius). Spread shredded coconut out on a non-stick baking sheet. Toast it for 5-10 minutes until it is browned. Use fresh coconut that you've grated, or purchased shredded coconut from your local grocery store. If you purchase sweetened coconut, they will need less cooking time to brown. Toasted coconut can be added to yogurt, salads, cereal, ice cream, and other snacks. Store toasted coconut flakes in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months. Place toasted, shredded coconut in an airtight plastic container. Store the container in a spot that won't get warm or damp, like a kitchen cupboard. The coconut will keep for up to two months if it is sealed properly. Shredded coconut will keep in the freezer for up to a year. Cook with coconut oil. Coconut oil can be an excellent swap for olive oil in your regular recipes, particularly if you're cooking a stir fry meal. While it contains just as much fat as other oils, coconut oil also contains medium chain fatty acids, which are metabolized faster in the body. Use the same amount of coconut oil in your recipes as your would other fats. Add coconut milk to soups and sauces. Coconut milk is a vegan-friendly, dairy-free way to add a bit of creaminess to soups and sauces without making them too heavy. For instance, try making a pineapple coconut sauce for flavorful meals. Coconut milk can also make a great marinade for chicken or shrimp. Cook coconut-centered meals. Coconut is a key ingredient in many popular dishes from around the world. Experiment with different recipes to get a feel for how to cook with coconut. Some dishes to try could include: Coconut chutney , a South Indian dish Thai curry Tom Kha Gai soup Coconut shrimp Bake a coconut cake. Preheat your oven to 325 °F (163 °C). In a large bowl, mix 1 can of sweetened condensed milk, 3 eggs, 0.5 cups (120 ml) coconut milk, 0.5 cups (120 ml) milk, and 2 cups (470 ml) grated coconut. Pour the mixture into a greased, medium-sized cake pan and bake for 25 minutes. Make coconut cream cake pops. Make coconut cream cake pops by crumbling coconut cake in a bowl and stirring in vanilla frosting. Add frosting and stir until the mixture has a dough-like consistency. Roll the dough into ping pong-sized balls and chill them in the fridge for 2 hours, then insert lollipop sticks. For an added touch, dip the cake pops in melted chocolate and chill them for another 2 hours. Make coconut candy. Make chocolate-covered coconut candy by mixing 1.75 cup shredded coconut, 1.75 cups confectioners' sugar, 1 cup chopped almonds, and 0.5 cups (120 ml) condensed milk in a medium-sized bowl. Roll the mixture into balls that are approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in size and chill them in the fridge for 20 minutes. Dip the balls in melted chocolate and let them cool for another 20 minutes. Replace grain-based flour with coconut flour for baking. Coconut flour is a protein-rich, gluten-free alternative to regular flour. While it can be used in place of regular flour, you should swap it in at only a third of the flour that your recipe calls for, as it is much more absorbent. Be sure to mix your ingredients very thoroughly to prevent the coconut flour from clumping.
Poke into the coconut with a sharp knife. Drain the coconut water into a bowl or glass. Place the coconut on a hard surface and break it up with a hammer. Use a butter knife to separate the coconut flesh from the shell. Peel off the skin from the coconut flesh with a vegetable peeler. Store fresh coconut in the fridge for 4-5 days. Grate coconut into small or large pieces. Keep grated coconut in the fridge for 1-2 days. Toast coconut flakes in the oven for 5-10 minutes. Store toasted coconut flakes in a cool, dry place for up to 2 months. Cook with coconut oil. Add coconut milk to soups and sauces. Cook coconut-centered meals. Bake a coconut cake. Make coconut cream cake pops. Make coconut candy. Replace grain-based flour with coconut flour for baking.
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How to Get Rid of Dust
To get rid of dust effectively, use microfiber rags and dusting wands with microfiber coverings. Avoid feather dusters and regular rags, since these tend to move dust around rather than get rid of it. Glide the cloth over all surfaces while applying light pressure and try to swipe in only one direction. When the rag gets saturated with dust, turn it over and use the other side or get a new one. Don't forget to tackle nooks and crannies, the area behind appliances, and ceiling fan blades for a thorough job.
Choose the right supplies. Many dust removal products on the market don't do much in the way of removing dust. Feather dusters and dry rags do not actually get rid of dust. They just move it around. You need to go for high quality microfiber rags, as well as top notch dusting wands. A dusting cloth should be sticky. Look for microfiber cloths that clings to your skin when you examine them. Dusting wands should not have feathers on the end. You want a wand with a microfiber covering. Make sure to examine the wand prior to purchase. Make sure you can feel the fabric clinging to your hand. Protect yourself from irritation. This is especially important if you have allergies and asthma. If you end up sneezing and coughing, this can inhibit your ability to remove unwanted dust from your home. Wear a face mask when cleaning, especially if your home is very dusty. Use a dusting cloth efficiently. Unfold your cloth and place it on the dusty item, covering as much of the surface as necessary. With a high quality dusting rag, you should not need any additional sprays. Glide the cloth over the surface while applying light pressure. Try to move in one direction for every swipe. If the rag gets saturated with dust, turn it over and use on the other side. Dust any surface in your home that's accrued dust. You should wash your dust cloths in the laundry after each dusting session. Wash them separate from other clothing items and use a plain detergent. Make use of a dusting wand. A wand is best used to reach hard-to-reach places in your home. Things like ceiling fans, tall cabinets, and the tops of bookshelves can be dusted with a dusting wand. Extend the wand as necessary to remove unwanted dust, using slow back and forth motions. You may want to set a tarp or dirt rag on the floor to catch any dust that falls during the dusting process. Vacuuming or sweeping afterwards is important. Dust off electronics. These are a major source of dust that are often overlooked in the home. DVD players, stereos, video game consoles, and other electronic gadgets can attract a lot of dust. Unplug the equipment before dusting. You can swipe a microfiber cloth over all sides of these surfaces to remove dust. If there is any dust in cracks and crevices of larger machines, use a long-handled dusting wand to remove. In addition to dusting off the surface of these devices, check for dust around them. Vacuum dust from along cords and vents, as a lot of dust tends to gather in these places. Some people may use compressed air to get dust out of electronics. This may be safe for some electronics, but you should always read the manufacturer's instructions first. Compressed air may be too strong for certain electronic devices. Get dust off of plush toys. If you have kids, or collect plush toys as hobby, these can be a major source of dust. As regular machine washing can cause wear and tear to toys, there's a simple way to remove dust without throwing them in with the laundry. Baking soda can actually draw out soil and dust from these items. Put all toys into a large plastic bag. If you have a lot of toys, you may need more than one. Pour one cup of baking soda into the bag. Tie the top of the bag and shake it well. Take the bag outside. Remove the toys one by one, and shake them off as you go to remove any clumps of baking soda. Remove dust behind appliances. Dust under large appliances can actually be a major health concern. In addition to dust, other debris can gather, attracting bugs and mice. Move the appliances away from the wall and unplug them. Use a slightly damp sponge mop and mop along the corners of the wall, removing dust and debris. Wipe the remainder of the floor with hot, soapy water. Press the appliance back against the wall and plug it back in. Remove dust from the corners of cabinets. These are other areas that are often neglected as they're difficult to reach. You can use a makeup brush or a paint brush to sweep dust out of these areas. Then, remove the dust you swept with a microfiber cloth. Get dust out of vents. Vents can cause a buildup of dust in the air, so it should be removed. You can use a soft-brush vacuum attachment or an electrostatic mop to remove dust from these places. Run the mop or the vacuum over the vents, drawing out any dust. Wipe down the vent with a damp microfiber cloth. If there are any removable filters, such as an air conditioning filter, remove it and wash it in warm, soap water. Let it dry before putting it back in place. Eliminate dust on a ceiling fan. You should first place a drop cloth or newspapers on the floor around the lamp. A lot of built up dust will fall off of the ceiling fan. Take a damp paper towel and a step stool. Stand on top of the stool and gently wipe down the built up dust on the fan's blades. Make sure the device is turned off first. This is one case where a mild cleanser should be applied to a microfiber cloth, as the dust will likely be stuck on. Wet your cloth with a mild cleanser and gently wipe off the remaining dust on the fan's blades. Keep your car free of dust. Dust can build up in a car in addition to inside your home. Regularly wipe down the interior of your car with a wet microfiber cloth. Pull out any floor mats and shake them out as well to remove lingering dust and debris. You should also make an effort to eliminate trash in your car. Do not leave garbage or old food in your car. It's a good idea to vacuum your car once in awhile to remove built up dust. Avoid dust in your workspace. Dust can also build up in a workspace, so do not rely entirely on the cleaning crew to keep your area dust free. Bring some dusting materials from home and dust your workspace at the end of each day. Wipe down the furniture and quickly sweep under your desk regularly. You should also eliminate clutter, which can lead to dust. Keep your papers stacked neatly and throw out any old memos or letters you no longer need. Clean and vacuum regularly. This should be done at least once a week. Many people are surprised how quickly dust builds up. You should get a vacuum with a quality filter to make sure you remove as much dust as possible. In addition to vacuuming the carpet, vacuum furniture. Get the crooks and crevices of your chairs and sofas. These areas can also contain dust. If you have pets, they're sure to be covered in pet hair and dander. Consider ditching your carpeting. Carpeting is not ideal if you have sensitivities that make it difficult to deal with dust. Dust control is extremely difficult if you live in a home with carpet as all carpets trap dust. Hardwood, tile, or linoleum floors are a better option when it comes to reducing dust. If you have to have carpet, stay away from shag carpeting. This type of carpeting is notorious for making dust removal difficult. Protect your mattress from dust. Cover your mattress in a zippered, dust-proof, or allergen free cover. When cleaning bed springs, do so outside your bedroom to avoid getting dust on your bed. Synthetic mattress pads and pillows may work better when it comes to reducing dust. If a second bed is added to the room, it should also have a cover. Wash your sheets regularly. All material in your bed should be washable. Wash sheets, blankets, and pillow cases at least once a week to prevent dust build up. Do not buy any fuzzy materials for your bed. They are difficult to wash and may attract more dust. Feather and wool-stuffed materials are also hard to wash, and more prone to gathering dust.
Choose the right supplies. Protect yourself from irritation. Use a dusting cloth efficiently. Make use of a dusting wand. Dust off electronics. Get dust off of plush toys. Remove dust behind appliances. Get dust out of vents. Eliminate dust on a ceiling fan. Keep your car free of dust. Avoid dust in your workspace. Clean and vacuum regularly. Consider ditching your carpeting. Protect your mattress from dust. Wash your sheets regularly.
https://www.wikihow.com/Tell-if-a-Watermelon-Is-Bad
How to Tell if a Watermelon Is Bad
To tell if a watermelon is bad, examine the outer rind for a consistent green or green-striped color. Dark-colored or moldy spots, which will look fuzzy and be black, white, or green, indicate the melon isn't fresh. If everything looks good, put your nose close to the rind and check for a sweet, fresh scent. If it smells tangy or sour, toss it out. Then, slice open your melon and look for deep pink or red flesh inside. If yours is any other color, or if the flesh looks gritty or shriveled, throw the watermelon away!
Check for mold on the outside. Mold or dark-colored spots on the outside of the watermelon could indicate that it has gone bad. The mold might be black, white, or green, and have a fuzzy appearance. Look for a healthy color outside. The watermelon should have either a consistent pine green shade or a striped appearance. Striped watermelons have alternating lime-green and darker pine-colored stripes. Look for a deep pink or red inside. These colors indicate the watermelon is healthy. If your watermelon is a different color (black, for instance), do not eat it. Different varieties of watermelon have different internal appearances. Desert King, Tendergold, Yellow Baby, and Yellow Doll watermelons have yellow or orange flesh. Beware of gritty and dry watermelon flesh. When watermelon is no longer good, the crisp flesh will start to shrivel. The flesh might even be pulling away from the seeds. In other cases, the watermelon might become slimy and mushy. Smell the watermelon before cutting into it. A healthy, edible watermelon should smell sweet and fresh. If it smells tangy or sour, it's gone bad and should be thrown it away. Use the expiration date. If you're eating pre-cut watermelon you bought from the market, the container should include an eat-by, best-by, or another expiration date. This date lets you know how long you have until the watermelon goes bad. Eat cut watermelon within five days. Properly stored , sliced watermelon will stay good three to five days. Make eating it a priority to prevent it from going bad. Eat unrefrigerated, uncut watermelon within 10 days. After about a week, uncut, unrefrigerated watermelon will start to turn. Eat uncut, unrefrigerated watermelon as soon as possible. Don’t eat refrigerated, uncut watermelon after 2-3 weeks. After about two weeks, refrigerated, uncut watermelon will start to turn. To prevent your uncut, refrigerated watermelon from going bad, eat it within two weeks of purchase. Refrigerate your whole or sliced watermelon. Watermelons are typically refrigerated at a temperature of 13 degrees Celsius (55 F). Storing your fruit at 21 Celsius (70 F) will increase its lycopene and beta-carotene content (both of which are important antioxidants). Store cut watermelon in an airtight container. A resealable bag or container is the best place for watermelon. This will preserve its flavor and freshness. In a pinch, wrap your watermelon tightly in aluminum foil or plastic wrap. Use caution when freezing watermelon. Some people advise against freezing watermelon altogether, since thawing or cutting open a frozen watermelon piece could cause the juice to drip out. If you decide to live on the wild side and want to freeze your watermelon, place it in airtight containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. The watermelon will stay good for 10-12 months.
Check for mold on the outside. Look for a healthy color outside. Look for a deep pink or red inside. Beware of gritty and dry watermelon flesh. Smell the watermelon before cutting into it. Use the expiration date. Eat cut watermelon within five days. Eat unrefrigerated, uncut watermelon within 10 days. Don’t eat refrigerated, uncut watermelon after 2-3 weeks. Refrigerate your whole or sliced watermelon. Store cut watermelon in an airtight container. Use caution when freezing watermelon.
https://www.wikihow.com/Convert-Bitcoins-to-Dollars
How to Convert Bitcoins to Dollars
To convert bitcoins to dollars, choose a reputable bitcoin marketplace service with low fees and transfer times. Create an account with the service and deposit your bitcoins, then wait to convert your bitcoins when the exchange rate is favorable. Some services allow you to convert your bitcoins to dollars by transferring them to a debit card or digital wallet, and you may also be able to sell your bitcoins to other users in the marketplace!
Compare the rates offered by different conversion services and choose the best one. Even when the average bitcoin conversion rate improves, different conversion services offer different conversion rates. For instance, suppose one service offers to convert your bitcoins at a rate of 1 to $5,000 and another offers to turn 1 bitcoin into $5,200. All other things being equal, you should go with the second service to get the most out of your bitcoins. Convert your bitcoin using a service with low fees. Conversion services typically charge a fee for conversion. Sometimes there is a flat fee no matter how much you exchange, and sometimes the conversion service charges a percentage of the amount you exchange. Compare the fees associated with the various conversion services and select one that offers the best deal. Service fees change over time, so be sure to check the service's terms and fee schedule. Verify that the service you’re using is safe. There are several ways to verify that a bitcoin conversion site is safe. One is to check reputable sources for reviews that verify the integrity of a given site. Another way is to ensure that the site the service manages uses https (as opposed to the less secure http) in their URL. Finally, use a conversion service that allows two-factor identification, ensuring that only you will be able to approve bitcoin conversions. Select a service that offers low transfer times. Some sites transfer bitcoins to your account after 5 days, but faster services could convert your bitcoins to dollars in 3 days or less. Sign up for an account. Signing up for an account involves providing your name, date of birth, address, email address, phone number, and other personal information. You'll also be required to provide a bank account, an electronic payment service like PayPal, or both (depending on how you want to convert and transfer your bitcoins). Select the strongest security options when you sign up. When you create an account on a bitcoin marketplace, you'll have the opportunity to enable two-factor authentication (2FA), which means you will enter a password and a randomly generated code sent to your phone. You might also want to enable a multi-signature option, which requires multiple independent approvals before making a bitcoin conversion or withdrawal. Both of these security options can protect against theft and hackers, so enable them when you're given the option. Deposit your bitcoins in the marketplace. The specific mechanism by which you deposit your bitcoins will vary depending on how your bitcoins are currently stored. Typically, depositing your bitcoins is as easy as clicking "Deposit bitcoins" (or something similar) near the top of the marketplace's home page. If your bitcoin encryption key is printed out, you'll be prompted to enter it. If your bitcoins are in a “wallet” (an encrypted file or code), you might be asked to upload the file. Don't be afraid to reach out to customer support if you're having trouble depositing your bitcoins. Convert your bitcoins when the exchange rate is favorable. Over time, exchange rates rise and fall. For instance, one day the exchange rate might allow you to trade 1 bitcoin for $4,900. A week later, the exchange rate might offer $5,100 for 1 bitcoin. Wait to exchange your bitcoins until the corresponding dollar value rises. There is no fixed percentage or value that defines a favorable exchange rate. Some people might feel that if the value of a bitcoin rises by $100, it is a good time to convert their currency. Others might wait until the value they'd get rises by 5 percent. Check the exchange rate regularly online or sign up for a service that updates you on the bitcoin-to-dollar exchange rate so you'll know when it improves. Sell your bitcoins in the marketplace. Some marketplaces allow you to sell your bitcoins to another person. Others allow you to sell them directly to the marketplace, which will then resell them to interested buyers later. In either case, the specific method you use to sell your bitcoins will vary somewhat depending on the marketplace you use. Generally, you can simply click on “Sell your bitcoins” or some similar option to get the process started. The bitcoins will the be converted to dollars and transferred to the bank account you provided. Put your bitcoins on a debit card. Some marketplaces enable you to load your bitcoins onto a debit card that automatically converts them to dollars. You might be able to get a digital debit card, which simply provides you with a string of numbers you can use for online purchases that require dollars, or you could get a regular debit card in the mail. Both types of debit cards cost money (digital debit cards typically cost about $5, while regular debit cards cost $15-$20), but they offer added convenience, especially if you rarely use cash. Transfer your bitcoins to another digital wallet. Some bitcoin conversion services allow you to convert your bitcoins to dollars by transferring them to PayPal, Apple Pay, or similar services. If this is the way you want to convert your bitcoins to dollars, set your payout method to the digital wallet you want to use. Then, simply sell or transfer your bitcoins to the service of your choice through the marketplace menus. Converting bitcoins to dollars by transferring them to a digital wallet often has higher fees and lower limits than transferring them to your bank account. This option might, however, be preferable for people who make digital purchases regularly and don't want the hassle of transferring their money from a bank to a digital wallet.
Compare the rates offered by different conversion services and choose the best one. Convert your bitcoin using a service with low fees. Verify that the service you’re using is safe. Select a service that offers low transfer times. Sign up for an account. Select the strongest security options when you sign up. Deposit your bitcoins in the marketplace. Convert your bitcoins when the exchange rate is favorable. Sell your bitcoins in the marketplace. Put your bitcoins on a debit card. Transfer your bitcoins to another digital wallet.
https://www.wikihow.com/Go-from-Friends-to-Dating
How to Go from Friends to Dating
Going from friends to dating can seem like a daunting transition, but lots of relationships happen this way. The first step is to hint that you have deeper feelings for your friend. Try some subtle flirting techniques, like making eye contact, smiling, and complimenting them more often. Try to face them more when you hang out together and sit or stand a little closer to them. After you've been flirting with them for a little while, consider asking them out. Just say something like, “Do you fancy going for dinner on the weekend? Just the two of us?” Once you start dating, it can be easy to move quickly, since you already know the person well, but try to take things slowly and enjoy it. Being in a relationship with someone is different to being friends and you don't want to rush the romance!
Think about where your friendship currently stands. Do you talk frequently, hang out together in your free time, or simply know each other through other people? There is no “right” answer that means you can successfully transition into a relationship, but you need to think about where you both stand before you decide to go out together. A strong friendship is often the best base for a strong relationship. You know the person well and already enjoy spending time together. Signs you 2 might be ready to move to the next level include: Willingness to tell each other secrets, dreams, and thoughts. Sharing some of the same values. Frequent and honest communication, at least 1-2 a week. Calm, enjoyable conversation whenever you are face to face. Being able to be vulnerable with each other. A few hobbies and ideas that you both share and enjoy. Build trust together, even if it is only a little bit. Be supportive when they're in vulnerable situations to show that you care and can be a strong, positive presence in their life. If you cannot trust someone with a secret or a problem then you will never trust them with your heart. Building trust takes some time, but there are ways to get the ball rolling: Share something about yourself – giving trust is the best way to receive it. Talk to them about your family, your history, your dreams or goals, and your occasional worries or insecurities. Be dependable, on time, and helpful whenever you make a promise. Ask a mutual friend for their opinion. Ask someone you can trust whether they think your friend has mutual feelings for you. Oftentimes an outside perspective can illuminate things that you might ignore or miss thanks to romantic notions. Be specific and honest when asking for advice: saying “Do you think they like anyone?” will not give you the same useful advice as, “Do you think we could be good together.” Make sure this friend is reliable and won't spread the news to any other friends before confiding in them. Avoid talking excessively about past relationships or other crushes. You shouldn't avoid talking about your past relationships at all, as this can be a healthy way to get to know someone's romantic preferences and past life. However, you do not want to constantly complain about your exes or talk about how "perfect" you were together, as this can lead someone to think you aren't over your last girl or boyfriend. If your crush is constantly talking about other lovers, crushes, or ex-partners, they may not be ready for a relationship either. Remember that relationships are about more than physical attraction. This is extra important when trying to date friends, as there is much more to dating someone than “a friend who you can make out with.” Relationships aren't just about sex and physical relations. They are a meeting between two people in all aspects - emotional, social, and physical. If you just want a friend you can sleep with then you don't actually want to date them. Don't start a relationship you won't commit to. Spend time alone to see if you make a good couple. One of the most common scenarios is when a crush develops within a larger group of friends. While there is nothing wrong with this, relationships rely on the ability to be alone with someone else, not always in a group. While you don't have to go on a date, you should try and find time to be alone with someone before deciding they are right to date. Ideas include: Ask them to help you get drinks, food, etc. for a party. Sit across or next from them at the dinner table. Ask them on casual “dates,” like exercising together, checking out a new bar, or helping out with a project/homework. Decide if you are willing to lose your friendship. Unfortunately, some people will not be able to return to being "just friends" after one person makes a move. The attraction gets in the way, one side is thinking of what "could have been," and it becomes awkward to be alone. This does not mean, however, that you should not make a move. You need to be willing to risk a friendship for something more -- but if becoming a couple is important to you than this is a risk worth taking. Use open, romantic body language to signal your attraction. Body language is often the forgotten branch of flirting, but it is a key way to tell someone you are interested. It also helps you see if they feel the same way. While everyone is different, there are a few gestures that universally signal attraction and respect: Turning shoulders and hips to face each other. Making clear, consistent eye contact. Expressing positive emotions with each other through facial expressions, such as by smiling. Fixing, brushing, or playing with hair and clothing. Mimicking posture or speech patterns. Leaning in or close to each other. Turn up the heat with subtle flirting. Before you make a move, you should see if she/he is going to be receptive to a romantic relationship. While you don't want to go overboard, subtle advances show someone that you are interested in moving to the next level. This is a great way to get them thinking about romance. As you try the following tips, ask yourself how they respond—do they shy away or laugh it off? If so, they may want to stay friends. However, if they respond with similar behavior, make good eye contact, or make romantic gestures of their own, you may have found a match. To start the flirting: Make eye contact and smile. Smiling is proven to be the most effective flirting technique you have. Break the touch barrier: a simple hand on the shoulder or upper back, brushing someone's arm, or going for a longer hug (2-3 seconds) are all paramount to signal attraction. Use genuine compliments to make them feel good. Everyone loves being complimented, and it shows someone that you care. Make your compliments specific for added effect – “You crushed that last math test” instead of “you seem really smart.” Ask them out. Sitting and thinking about asking someone out is not only excruciating, it is detrimental to your chances at starting a relationship. Once you are sure you want to take this to the next level, get them alone and go for it. This doesn't have to be anything grand or romantic; it just has to be honest. Any answer will be better than no answer at all. Remember this as you muster up the courage to ask the question. Pull them aside or ask them on a casual date and say: “I've really enjoyed our friendship, but I want to take things to another level. Would you want to go on a few dates?” "We're great friends, but I have feelings for you beyond friendship. I would love the chance to get to know you even more on a date." Even something as simple as "Let's go out on a date next Thursday" can work perfectly. Except for large tragedies or life-changing events, there is no “perfect time” to ask someone out. Just go for it! Avoid grand professions of love. Instead, opt for sincere, respectful comments. No matter how you feel, telling someone that "they are the only one for you" and that they "complete you" will only scare them away by turning the dial from friendship to relationship too quickly. Keep your calm, and be respectful but sincere when you talk. Some things to consider saying are: "I care about you and our friendship a lot, and I think we could be really good together." "Getting to know you has been incredible, and I would love the chance to get to know you even more." "You are a great person, and I'm very lucky to call you a friend. Accept the answer you are given. If they feel the same way, then you're about to start your relationship together. But if they say no it's time to move on and start getting over your feelings. Continually asking them out, begging for another chance, or giving them the cold-shoulder will prevent your friendship from returning. If you think you can be friends again, you'll still need to spend some time alone. Try not to hang out for several weeks and see what happens when you return. Though you shouldn't expect to be best friends, time can help you get over your feelings and return to friendship. Know, however, that some people struggle to return to friendship after romance. This is unfortunately a risk you will need to take. Communicate your expectations early in the relationship. Dating a friend can be fantastic: you already know each other's quirks, you have similar friends, and there is no awkward “feeling out” phase. But dating friends can also get awkward if you don't talk about what you are looking for in the relationship. Do you want someone you can see casually, or are you looking for your soul mate? Do you see things progressing slowly, or are do you want to go “all-in” and see if you are compatible? This conversation, though not easy, needs to happen. Try beginning the conversation with your own needs, stating something like, “I know we've been friends for a while, but I am looking for something long-term.” Follow up with, "What are you looking for in this relationship?" "How do you see things moving forward?" Go slowly, even if you feel like you’re ready to rush. Friends often rush over the early parts of the relationship, getting physical with each other before they are technically “dating.” While there is nothing wrong with this, there is a problem if you don't slow down and talk at some point. Don't try and hide your intimacy and attraction to each other. Rather, use this opportunity to make your move and say how you feel. Trying to ignore a random hook-up or kiss will lead to relationship issues later on when you are both confused about what happened before. If someone is moving too quickly for you, casually remind them that "Our friendship comes first, we've got plenty of time for everything else." Just because you are dating now does not mean you need to spend every hour together. Keep your space and take things slowly. Keep remembering that a strong friendship makes the base of a strong relationship. Spend time with your mutual friends. No one likes it when a couple gets together and disappears from the world, only to reappear holding hands and ignore everyone else from time to time. Not only is this tough for your friends, it puts a strain on your relationship. If you stop dating, you'll have alienated your core friends, showing them that you only cared about them insofar as you got a date. Make time for group activities, and maintain plans and traditions you had before dating. While you shouldn't hide your relationship, you shouldn't let it affect your other friends. Spend alone time with them and focus on other friends when you are in a large group. Be discreet – there is no need to tell your friends all of your "couple's stories." They don't want to hear them and your partner might not want to share them like you do. Develop hobbies and activities between just the two of you. While you shouldn't ignore your old friends, you also shouldn't try and keep things the same now that you are dating. You need to find things you love doing together. Talk together and spend time alone to help your relationship grow from friendship into something more. If you only wanted to date someone without putting in the effort to love them, you would have stayed friends. Maintaining a relationship takes time, energy, and work, but the payoff is a close-knit bond that is unique to just you. Stay true to who you were when you were just friends. Just because you are dating now does not mean you should change who you are to make them love you more. They fell for who you were when you were still friends. While everyone will go through changes as they build a relationship, becoming someone's girlfriend or boyfriend is no excuse for a personality shift. Your friendship should stay intact no matter how romantic you become. Make sure you are comfortable together. If you feel like you need new clothes, new lingo, or new hobbies to make them love you then you might be better off as friends. Know that you may be risking the friendship. If the relationship falls apart, you will likely not be able to return to being friends. When you get to know someone romantically, it becomes incredibly hard to remove those feelings and return to friendship. Dating someone is an intimate experience, and you will learn things, good and bad, about the person you never knew about. Coupled with any lingering romantic feelings between you two, you have a mixture that makes friendship difficult if not impossible. Remember the great times you shared together and move on, knowing that you both did the best you could to make things work. Ultimately, this is all you can hope for.
Think about where your friendship currently stands. Build trust together, even if it is only a little bit. Ask a mutual friend for their opinion. Avoid talking excessively about past relationships or other crushes. Remember that relationships are about more than physical attraction. Spend time alone to see if you make a good couple. Decide if you are willing to lose your friendship. Use open, romantic body language to signal your attraction. Turn up the heat with subtle flirting. Ask them out. Avoid grand professions of love. Accept the answer you are given. Communicate your expectations early in the relationship. Go slowly, even if you feel like you’re ready to rush. Spend time with your mutual friends. Develop hobbies and activities between just the two of you. Stay true to who you were when you were just friends. Know that you may be risking the friendship.
https://www.wikihow.com/Age-Well
How to Age Well
Aging is inevitable, but you can be happy and healthy as you get older by developing good habits and minimizing stress. To take care of your body as you age, establish a healthy diet and exercise schedule as early as you can. Make sure to eat plenty of vegetables, lean proteins, healthy fats, and complex carbohydrates, like whole grains, so your body stays healthy. If you can, try to do at least 30 minutes of aerobic activity, like walking, biking, or swimming, every day and strength training 2 to 3 days a week. You can keep your mind sharp by doing fun and relaxing hobbies, such as painting, dancing, or making music. Consider taking up meditation as well, which can slow age-related mental decline.
Start caring for yourself as early as possible. If you can, develop healthy lifestyle habits while you're still in your 20s. The choices you make while you're young can have a major impact on how you age. For example, people who eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly in their 20s are much less likely to develop heart disease as they enter middle age. If you're already out of your 20s, you can still reap major benefits (such as reduced risk of heart disease and diabetes) by adopting a healthier lifestyle at any age. . Eat a healthy diet What you eat affects your health as you age, so stick to healthy foods that are rich in a variety of nutrients. While different people have different dietary needs, it's generally best to eat a diet that includes a rainbow of fruits and vegetables, lean proteins (such as fish, poultry, and legumes), healthy fats (such as nuts, seeds, and olive oil), and complex carbohydrates (like those found in brown rice and other whole grains). Some studies have suggested that the Mediterranean diet , which is rich in healthy fats and antioxidants, may help slow the aging process. Avoid refined, processed, and pre-packaged foods. Don't eat a lot of foods that are greasy, sugary, or high in sodium. Talk to your doctor or a registered dietitian about how to best meet your personal dietary needs. Get plenty of exercise. If you can, try to do at least 30 minutes of moderate aerobic activity every day and a little strength training 2 to 3 days a week. Some good examples of aerobic exercise include jogging or walking, biking, and swimming. Strength training could involve lifting weights or using resistance machines at the gym. The type and amount of exercise you should be doing depends on a lot of factors, such as your current age, level of fitness, and overall health. Talk to your doctor about what kind of exercise is appropriate for you. Maintaining a healthy exercise routine into middle age and beyond may slow the aging process in your body at the cellular level. . Maintain a healthy weight Talk to your doctor about the healthiest and most effective ways to manage your weight. For most people, this involves a combination of good dietary choices and exercise. Being either overweight or underweight can be associated with health problems as you age. Work with your doctor or a dietitian to figure out the healthiest weight range for you at your current age and as you get older. Practice good sleep hygiene. Keep yourself healthier and happier as you age by ensuring that you get plenty of good-quality sleep. To get the sleep you need, establish a consistent bedtime and wake-up time. Turn off all bright screens at least 30 minutes before bed and try unwinding by taking a warm shower or bath and reading from a relaxing book. Make sure your room is dark and comfortable at night. Most adults need 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night to stay healthy. As you get older, you may have a more difficult time sleeping comfortably at night. Ask your doctor for advice if you have trouble getting a good night's sleep. Lack of sleep can contribute to a variety of health problems, including premature aging of your skin. Protect your skin from the sun. Whenever you spend time in the sun, wear a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30. You can protect yourself further by wearing sunglasses, a hat, and clothing that covers your arms and legs. Too much sun exposure can prematurely age your skin and put you at risk of developing skin cancer. Instead of tanning yourself in the sun or at a salon, skip the harmful UV radiation and use a sunless self-tanning spray or lotion. Avoid tobacco products. If you use cigarettes or other tobacco products, talk to your doctor about the best way to quit. Smoking can contribute to a whole host of health problems as you age, including lung cancer, emphysema, heart disease, and stroke. It can also dramatically speed up the aging of your skin. Quitting tobacco can dramatically reduce your risk of developing smoking-related diseases. For example, after your quit smoking, your risk of having a stroke may drop to around that of a non-smoker within just 2 to 5 years. Limit your alcohol intake to no more than 1-2 drinks per day. Doctors recommend that women have no more than 1 alcoholic drink per day at any age, while men under 65 should limit themselves to 2 drinks daily. Men over 65 should restrict themselves to just 1 drink. Your ability to tolerate alcohol diminishes with age, so you may need to cut back even more as you get older. 1 alcoholic drink is defined as 12 fluid ounces (350 mL) of beer, 5 fluid ounces (150 mL) of wine, and 1.5 fluid ounces (44 mL) of 80 proof distilled spirits. There is some evidence that moderate alcohol use can reduce your risk of certain age-related diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. However, excessive drinking can contribute to a wide variety of health problems, such as cancer, pancreatitis, heart problems, and liver disease. If you are dependent on alcohol or worried that your alcohol use might be affecting your health, talk to your doctor about the best way to cut back or quit. Take good care of your teeth. Brush your teeth at least twice a day with a fluoride toothpaste and floss your teeth daily. You can also protect your teeth by avoiding sugary and acidic foods. See your dentist as often as recommended (usually twice a year) for cleanings and dental health checkups. Your risk of dental disease and tooth loss increases as you get older. Diseases of the gums and teeth are correlated with other health problems, such as stroke, diabetes, heart disease, and rheumatoid arthritis. Investing in good dental care can also benefit your overall health and quality of life as you age. Get regular medical checkups. Seeing your doctor regularly is vital for prevention and early detection of age-related health problems. Make appointments as often as recommended for physical exams and any other necessary tests and evaluations. How often you should see your doctor and what kinds of routine checkups you need depend on factors such as your age, sex, and overall health. Talk to your doctor about your routine care needs. Take up some creative hobbies. Try to make time for creative activities you enjoy, such as painting, dancing, doing crafts, or making music. If you've never had a creative hobby, look into taking classes or joining a local group that fits with your interests. Studies show that participating in creative and artistic activities can greatly benefit the mental and physical wellbeing of older adults. Artistic hobbies such as drawing, painting, pottery making, quilting, and woodworking are associated with a significantly reduced risk of developing cognitive issues and memory problems as you age. Joining classes or groups that share your creative interests can also help you make social connections, which are vital to good mental and physical health as you grow older. Try yoga and meditation. In addition to keeping your joints limber and building strength in your bones and muscles, yoga can also reduce stress and hypertension and keep your mind sharp. You can get even greater mental and emotional benefits if you combine your yoga practice with meditation, which can slow age-related mental decline. If you're new to yoga and meditation, do a search for classes in your area. You can often find affordable classes at gyms and community centers. If you're already middle aged or older, look for yoga classes that are specifically geared toward older adults or seniors. Talk to your doctor, a personal trainer, or a physical therapist about what poses are safe and appropriate for you. Do puzzles and games that exercise your mind. Games and puzzles that engage your brain and memory can help keep your mind sharp and improve your cognitive skills. As you master one type of game or puzzle, look for new ones to keep challenging your brain and working different mental muscles. A few types of games and puzzles you could try include: Tangrams and shape-finding games. Memory games, like Simon or card-matching games. Sudoku and crossword puzzles. Word-building games, like UpWords, Scrabble, or anagram games. Trivia games. Strategy-based board games, like chess or Parcheesi. Despite their bad rap as time-wasters, even video games can have cognitive and emotional benefits for older adults! Take measures to minimize stress in your life. While some stress is inevitable, there are things you can do to combat it. In addition to doing things that you find enjoyable, you can also reduce your stress levels by keeping your time and environment organized. Look for ways to get unnecessary obligations off your plate and find time to relax. Stress can contribute to a variety of health problems, including accelerated aging on the cellular level. If you're stressed because you're having trouble keeping track of all your tasks and responsibilities, try keeping a paper planner or setting reminders for yourself on your phone or computer. If you can, ask friends or family to help with things that are stressing you out. This can take some of the pressure off you and give you an opportunity to spend quality time with people you love. Try to set aside a little personal time each day to do something fun, work on a project that's important to you, or just unwind. . Stay connected with your friends As you get older, look for ways to keep spending quality time with people you are close to. People who engage in social activities with good friends tend to live longer, stay mentally and emotionally healthier, and enjoy a higher overall quality of life as they age. If you don't have any close friends to hang out with, look for ways to meet new people and form new friendships. You might do this by taking classes, joining clubs or groups in your area, or participating in causes you care about. Look for opportunities to mingle, like dances and other social events near you. Maintain an upbeat attitude about aging. Instead of looking at aging as a loss or decline, look at the positive aspects of growing older. Reflect on the wisdom and experience that you've gained and think about how you can use those things to be a positive force in the world and in the lives of those around you. And remember, getting older doesn't mean that you have to stop having fun! Studies show that people who stay positive and upbeat about aging tend to stay more physically, cognitively, and emotionally healthy than those who have more negative attitudes. Finding a strong sense of purpose is a great way to stay positive as you age. Focus on something in your life that is deeply meaningful to you, such as family, causes you care about, or any spiritual beliefs you may hold. Moisturize your skin daily. As you become older, your skin tends to dry out, contributing to the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. You can help your skin stay moist and retain its elasticity by applying gentle moisturizers to your face, hands, and body every day. Choose products that are free of fragrances and oils to prevent irritation and clogged pores. For the greatest benefits, apply moisturizer while your skin is still damp after showering or washing your hands or face. Give special attention to areas that tend to dry out the most, like your hands and elbows. Try a retinoid cream to reduce wrinkles. Ask your doctor or dermatologist about using a retinoid product, such as tretinoin, to treat your skin and slow down the aging process. These products typically come in cream, gel, or liquid forms, and may be applied to the skin once daily after cleansing. In addition to treating and preventing sun damage , retinoids can also unclog your pores and improve uneven pigmentation. Although they offer many benefits for your skin, retinoids can also cause side effects such as irritation and redness, drying of the skin, and itching. Talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of using retinoids. Take care of your hair and nails. Your hair and nails tend to get more dull, dry and brittle as you age. Keeping them healthy can make you look younger. Keep your nails young by moisturizing them regularly and keeping them trimmed and clean. You can apply a nail hardener for added strength, but be cautious about using drying polishes and gels. Condition your hair every time you wash it and use gentle, sulfate-free shampoos and conditioners. Avoid harsh heat styling tools and chemical dyes and relaxers. Talk to your doctor about using biotin supplements to boost the health of your hair and nails. Avoid foods and drinks that stain your teeth. Minimize staining beverages like wine, coffee, and tea. Tobacco products can also stain and discolor your teeth. Maintaining white, healthy-looking teeth can keep you looking younger for longer. Your teeth may naturally begin to darken as you age because your enamel tends to wear down and the yellower dentin underneath begins to thicken. If your teeth are discolored, talk to your dentist about safe and effective options for whitening your teeth and removing stains. Some options include adding porcelain veneers or having an in-office whitening procedure done. Choose clothes that flatter you. As you age, look for clothes that appeal to your sense of personal style but also help you look your best. The way you dress can have an impact on how old you look—and feel. While there are no hard and fast rules for what you can or can't wear at any age, you can keep yourself looking sharp and youthful by: Offsetting black or dark clothes with contrasting bright or neutral accessories. Black is slimming, but brighter tones help your skin look less washed out and draw attention away from shadows and wrinkles. Wearing fitted or tailored pieces that create a strong visual line and flatter your figure. Choosing thicker, more structured fabrics that don't cling to your body as much as thinner alternatives (e.g., double-knit jersey as opposed to regular jersey).
Start caring for yourself as early as possible. . Get plenty of exercise. . Practice good sleep hygiene. Protect your skin from the sun. Avoid tobacco products. Limit your alcohol intake to no more than 1-2 drinks per day. Take good care of your teeth. Get regular medical checkups. Take up some creative hobbies. Try yoga and meditation. Do puzzles and games that exercise your mind. Take measures to minimize stress in your life. . Maintain an upbeat attitude about aging. Moisturize your skin daily. Try a retinoid cream to reduce wrinkles. Take care of your hair and nails. Avoid foods and drinks that stain your teeth. Choose clothes that flatter you.
https://www.wikihow.com/Communicate-With-Body-Language
How to Communicate With Body Language
To communicate with body language, try using hand gestures during conversations or presentations to show confidence. You should also keep your posture relaxed and avoid crossing your arms, which can make you look defensive. Additionally, look people in the eye, but blink and look away every once in a while so you don't come off as intimidating. If you want to make someone feel more connected to you, subtly mirror their gestures and body position, which will help build rapport and trust.
Use open body language. This means that you have an assertive handshake , sit calmly, but exude energy, and seem in control of all gestures. Your posture should be relaxed, but your back should be straight. This shows people you are comfortable and confident. Pause when you speak to draw in the listener and show confidence. Keep your legs slightly apart, so you take up more space. This also demonstrates confidence. Lean in slightly when a person is speaking to show interest (leaning away will show a sense of hostility). Don't cross your arms. Instead, let them dangle at your sides or press them together in your lap. This shows you are open to other people. Make sure your handshake is firm, but not too crushing. Look the other person in the eyes, although you shouldn't stare too much. Blink, and look away sometimes, so they don't feel you are trying to be intimidating. Play with your tone of voice. The tone of voice is a way that people communicate confidence. The key to success is projecting confidence. Identify emotional body language. You can determine emotions by paying careful attention to non-verbal cues. You should also take into context what's going on at the time you spot the emotional signs, though. When people are angry, their face flushes, they bare their teeth, they clench their fists, and they invade body space, sometimes by leaning forward. When people are nervous or anxious, their face pales, their mouth seems dry (so they may drink water or lick their lips), they show varying speech tone, and they have tension in their muscles (so they may clench their arms or hands, and their elbows may be drawn into their sides.) Other signs of nervousness include trembling lip, fidgeting, and gasping or holding breath. Avoid blocking. If you are giving a presentation or speech, you want to be as open as you can to your audience. Thus, you should remove physical barriers that will limit your ability to connect. Podiums, computers, chairs, and even a folder are all props that create distance between a speaker and audience, preventing a sense of connection. Crossing your arms or speaking to someone while sitting behind a computer monitor are blocking behaviors. Spot when someone is lying. Body language can give away liars. They might be able to hide their lies in their words, but their bodies often tell another story. Liars are less likely to maintain eye contact, and their pupils may appear constricted. Turning the body away from you is a sign of lying. Complexion changes, such as redness in the neck or face, and perspiration, are all signs of lying, as are vocal changes like clearing of the throat. Be aware that some signs of lying – sweating, poor or no eye contact- are also indications of nervousness or fear. Consider spacing. Different cultures have different ideas about how much physical space you should give another person. But social distance is broken down into four categories. Intimate distance. Defined as touching another person to 45 centimeters. If you enter a person's intimate distance, this can be very unsettling for them unless it's welcomed or you're already intimate. Personal distance. 45 centimeters to 1.2 m. You are close enough to shake hands and to see each other's expressions and gestures. Social distance. This is the normal distance in situations that are impersonal or business transactions, defined as 1.2 m to 3.6 m. Speech should be louder, and eye contact remains important. Public distance. 3.7m to 4.5m. Examples of those who often operate in public distance are teachers or those who talk to people in groups. Non-verbal communication is critical but often exaggerated. Hand gestures and head movements can be more important than facial expressions as the latter are often not perceived. Identify your body language patterns. Make a conscious effort to think about what your body is doing in different interactions with different people. A mirror can be useful to examine facial expressions and posture, but mainly you just want to pay attention to what your body does when you're angry , nervous , or happy. Determine whether your body language is in sync with your message. Your body language is effective if it communicates the message you want it to communicate. Does your posture communicate confidence , or does it make you seem unsure of yourself even though your words express confidence? If your non-verbal signals match your words, you'll not only communicate more clearly, you'll also be perceived as being more charismatic. Use hand gestures when speaking. Experts believe that people who are great speakers are more likely to use hand gestures during conversations or presentations, and they say hand gestures give listeners greater confidence in the speaker. More complex gestures involving two hands above the waist are associated with complex thinking. Politicians like Bill Clinton, Barack Obama, Colin Powell, and Tony Blair are considered charismatic, effective speakers, and that's partly because they frequently use hand gestures. Move throughout the room. Don't only move your hands. Great speakers move around. They point at slides, and they don't keep their distance from people. They are animated. Keeping your hands in your pockets when speaking or having a conversation will make you seem insecure and closed off. In contrast, if you take your hands out of your pockets and keep your palms upward, you will demonstrate that you are likable and believable. Spot emblems. These are gestures that are the equivalents of words. Emblems can be either passive or they can be accepting. Remember that some emblems will have different meanings to different cultures. Clenched fists or other tension in the body can be signs of aggression, as if the person is prepared for a fight. Facing the other person, squared off and towards them, and sitting near them can also be signs of aggression. Sudden movements might be made. In contrast, accepting gestures are those when the arms are rounded and palms sideways, as if the person is offering up a mock hug. Gestures are slow and gentle. Nodding when a person speaks shows you agree with them, and makes you seem like a great listener. Have good posture. If you go to, say a job interview, and you have bad posture, you will probably register more poorly to the interviewer. People will associate bad posture with weak confidence or boredom or lack of engagement. They might even think you're lazy and unmotivated if you don't sit up straight. To have good posture, your head should be up and your back should be straight. Lean forward if you're seated. Sit down the front of your chair, and lean forward slightly to show you're interested and engaged. Mirror another person. Mirroring is when one partner mirrors the posture of the other partner. By copying the actions of the other person, you will make them feel connected to you. You can mirror a person's tone, body language or position of the body. You shouldn't do this blatantly or repeatedly though, only subtly. Mirroring is one of the most effective ways to use body language to build a rapport with someone. Emphasize your point with gestures. Have more than one gesture. This will help you better get your message across. If you want to make sure you're not misunderstood, repeat both gestures when you speak the idea aloud. If the listener doesn't pick up on one gesture, he or she will likely be familiar with the other. You don't have to use a body language gesture (or two) for every word, but it's a good idea to have a toolbox of gestures you can use to reinforce very important, yet easily misinterpreted concepts. Direct the most positive gestures toward the listener. This lets you more clearly indicate that you are offering a favorable outcome to the listener. Direct the most negative gestures away from yourself and the listener. This way you clearly indicate that you wish that no obstacle stands in the way of your intended message. Avoid gestures that show nervousness or insecurity. Keep a check on other body language signals. Watch for wandering eyes, hands picking at fluff on your clothing and constant sniffling. Touching one's face signals anxiety. Improve your posture. If you're constantly hunched over or touching your face, you'll never look confident , approachable or at ease. Improving your posture and working to eliminate nervous tics can be difficult and will take time, but you'll quickly improve your overall non-verbal communication. These small gestures add up and are all guaranteed to dampen the effectiveness of your message. Don't worry about if you accidentally perform a few of these in any given setting. Figure out the “visual dominance ratio. ” When you are talking to someone, you should try to be the person who is “visually dominant” to demonstrate confidence. This ratio is determined by figuring out who is looking at the other person's eyes more, and who is looking away more. Your visual dominance ratio helps determine where you stand on social dominance hierarchy compared to the other person in the conversation. People who spend most of the time looking away have a relatively low amount of social dominance. People who are less likely to look away are probably the boss. People who look downward display helplessness because they seem like they are trying to avoid criticism or any conflict. Use eye contact to send messages. The eyes are the windows to the soul, as the cliché goes. You can learn a lot about a person by paying attention to how they use their eyes. Avoiding eye contact at all, or looking downward with the eyes a lot, are both indications of defensiveness. Eye contact will be more continuous if a person is trying to listen to you, rather than speak. Looking away from the other person can also be an indication the person doing the speaking isn't ready to stop and listen yet. Looking at a person can be an indication of attraction. People who are interested in someone show strong eye contact and lean forward toward the other person in the conversation. Depending on the context, making eye contact with another person can be used to show respect. For example, when you're giving a presentation to a room full of people, divide the room into thirds. Address comments to one side, and then the other side, and then the middle. Pick out a person in each section to address comments to. The people who are sitting around them will think you are having direct contact with them, and this will make them rate you higher as a speaker. Understand affect displays. Pay close attention to facial expressions that convey emotion, especially if they conflict with the words a person is uttering. They can help you figure out a person's true emotions. Regulators are facial expressions that provide feedback during conversations, such as nodding the head, and expressions of interest or boredom. Regulators allow the other person to assess level of interest or agreement. Essentially, they provide feedback. You can show empathy towards another person by using affirmative movements, such as nodding your head and smiling. These gestures, used when another person is speaking, give them positive reinforcement and show you like what they are saying. Avoid defensiveness. Certain body language gestures, including facial expressions, communicate defensiveness, not confidence. Thus, they make you seem less in control. Limited facial expressions and small, close to the body hand/arm gestures are indications of defensiveness. Turning the body away from the other person or crossing your arms in front of your body are other indications of defensiveness. Watch for disengagement. If you are giving a presentation, you want people to be engaged. If you are the person watching the presentation, you want to seem engaged. There are signs you can look for that indicate engagement or a lack thereof. Heads tilted downward and eyes gazing elsewhere indicate disengagement. Slumping in a chair is a sign of disengagement. Similarly, fiddling, doodling, or writing, are signs that a person is disengaged.
Use open body language. Identify emotional body language. Avoid blocking. Spot when someone is lying. Consider spacing. Identify your body language patterns. Use hand gestures when speaking. Move throughout the room. Spot emblems. Have good posture. Mirror another person. Emphasize your point with gestures. Avoid gestures that show nervousness or insecurity. Figure out the “visual dominance ratio. Use eye contact to send messages. Understand affect displays. Avoid defensiveness. Watch for disengagement.
https://www.wikihow.com/Shrink-a-Fat-Butt
How to Shrink a Fat Butt
If you want to shrink your butt, exercise your glutes with dead lifts, squats, and lunges so that it looks smaller and more toned. Since extra fat on your butt makes it look bigger, add more cardio like running or swimming to your workout routine to burn extra calories. Another way to make your butt look smaller is to eat more nutritiously so you can build muscle and lose weight. To do this, eat a healthy amount of dairy and protein like eggs, chicken, low-fat yogurt, and milk. It may be hard, but try to avoid empty calories like junk food and soda since those will just get stored in your body as fat. Instead, opt for healthy alternatives like fruit, vegetables, and water.
Work your glutes. Strength-training exercises are ultimately the best way to shrink your butt. Muscle takes up less physical space than fat so toning your butt (turning the fat into muscle) will lift it and make it smaller. Carrying more muscle will also increase your overall metabolism and bring your whole body into proportion. Dead lifts are great exercises for your glutes. But when doing a deadlift, be sure to emphasize form over weight. Make sure to keep your spine in a neutral position and aligned with your head and shoulders, engage your core throughout the deadlift, and rest your weight on your heels. Add squats into your routine. This exercise primarily targets your thighs and butt but also works your hamstrings and lower back. Make sure to warm up beforehand. Lunges are another fantastic exercise for your butt. There are several different varieties (side, reverse, etc.), so constantly change what variety you do. Get into cardio. Since fat is the culprit to a big butt, cardio is the quickest answer to blasting it away. Running, swimming, boxing, or cycling will burn the most calories. And fewer calories equals a smaller butt. In addition to straight-up cardio, try interval training--it burns even more calories than its one-paced counterpart. Exercise full out for 30 seconds and rest for a couple of minutes. Repeat 8-10 times. Your metabolism will get upped in minutes and stay up. And the best part? The hard part of your workout is done in 15 minutes. Find cardio exercises and routines that you enjoy doing and will stay motivated to do. You might like running or doing HIIT routines in your home, or you might enjoy something else. The best cardio exercise is the one that you enjoy doing. Begin circuit training. If regular strength training is getting a bit boring, mix it up with circuit training. While you can do cardio every day, keep the strength training to 30 minutes, 3 days a week. Alternate between a new glute-toning exercise and high-intensity cardio activity for your entire workout session. Circuit training is about combinations. If you don't have access to a number of weights or machines, jog with weights in intervals of a minute or two. Otherwise add weights into your cardio exercises. You'll be killing two birds with one dumbbell. Cut calories. Fewer calories in equals more calories lost. More calories lost equals a smaller everything--including your bottom. Cutting calories with exercise may not be enough; you have to monitor your eating habits, too. 1 pound is 3,500 calories. If losing 10 lbs is your first goal, cutting 500 calories a day will equal the loss of 1 lb per week, 10 weeks in total. But don't forget: Exercise cuts out calories, too. Eat the right carbs and fats. So often carbs and fats are made into villains. However, there are good carbs and good fats that are very important to your diet; they give your body energy, maintain your metabolism and help your digestive system absorb vitamins. Avocados, olives, nuts, olive oil and salmon all have good unsaturated fats that will keep you satiated, which will keep you from overeating later. Whole-grain and whole-wheat breads, cereals and pasta, oatmeal, couscous, quinoa, and brown rice are good carbs that provide fiber, energy, and keep your insulin levels normal. Get a healthy amount of dairy and protein. Both of these food groups help you build muscle and are full of nutrition. Dairy and protein will also make it easier to get through your workouts. Eggs, turkey, chicken, fish, low-fat yogurts, milk, cheeses, and cottage cheese are all good options. If you opt for red meat, make sure it's lean. Cut out empty calories. To cut calories, you're going to have to eliminate the bad fats and empty calories. That means no junk food and no sugary drinks. Cutting out empty calories means your body doesn't get full and stores the calories in with your fat cells. Load up on the fruit and vegetables. They are low-calorie but still dense, providing you nutrition, few calories, energy, and leaving you fuller longer. Drink water. Two cups before every meal will satisfy you, hydrate you, and keep weight off. You'll also have less time to consume those sugary, high-calorie drinks that do nothing for your body's nutrition.
Work your glutes. Get into cardio. Cut calories. Eat the right carbs and fats. Get a healthy amount of dairy and protein.
https://www.wikihow.com/Sing-Low-Notes
How to Sing Low Notes
To sing a low note, you first need to relax your vocal chords, which you can do by drinking water or releasing a sigh. Support the low notes by using your diaphragm, which is located right below your ribs, to breathe and pushing your stomach in. Remember to maintain good posture and sing from your mouth and chin, not your throat and chest!
Relax your tongue and mouth. Slide your jaw from side-to-side prior to singing. Move your tongue around your mouth before resting it close to your front teeth. If you feel pain in your jaw joints, pause before continuing to sing. If you are singing higher in pitch, push your tongue downwards. You'll notice that if you are trying to reach for a note, then your tongue might move around more. This can actually make it more difficult to hit the note that you are striving for. Stand up straight. Push your shoulder blades back and imagine holding a pencil in between them. Keep your back and neck straight with your face looking forward. Hunching over can compress your throat. This will make it more difficult to produce quality low notes. If you are sitting while singing, try standing up to expand your range. To check your posture, look in a mirror. Practice correcting your posture until it feels natural. Release a heavy sigh to warm-up. Your vocal cords have to be relaxed in order to produce low notes. Before you start singing, give yourself 5 minutes or more to warm-up. Make a sighing noise and try to carry it to the lowest, deepest pitch possible. Repeat this same noise repeatedly until you feel relaxed and ready to sing. Rolling your shoulders and rotating your neck can help you to relax while humming. Sing from your mouth and chin, not your throat and chest. One reason that singers often struggle with low notes is that they think they should be going lower into their body and singing from their chest and throat. However, doing so can cause tension and actually make singing low notes more difficult. Instead, try to sing from your mouth and chin area so you're keeping your voice in your head, which will produce better low notes. If it helps, try imagining that you have a golf ball at the front of your mouth and you don't want it to fall back while you're singing. Remember to use your breath when you're singing low notes. Singing low notes actually requires you to use more of your breath. If you don't use your breath, you won't be able to support the low notes you're singing. As you're singing low notes, imagine that you're launching your breath up through your throat and toward the front of your mouth. Don't let your breath get stuck back in your throat—you want it to be at the front of your mouth where you should be singing from. Identify your natural register. Talk while placing your hand across your nose. Then, do the same thing with your hand flat on your chest. If you feel lots of vibrations in your nose for both exercises, then you have a nasal voice. More vibrations in your chest indicate that you have a chest voice. Equal vibrations in both areas means that you have a balanced voice naturally capable of a wide range of notes. Singers with a chest voice often find it easier to hit lower registers. If you have a nasal voice, it may take more time and effort to consistently hit low notes, but it is still possible. Practice holding lower and lower notes in your range while singing “Mee. ” Select a note in the middle of your vocal range. Then, start singing “mee” and continue on for as long as you are comfortable with. Keep the “mee” sound clear, clean, and without scratchiness. Then, attempt to move down notes in your range so see how far you can go. As you sing “mee,” pay attention to your resonance. You should feel more facial vibrations as you head into lower notes. Don't be concerned if your volume decreases when you sing “mee” in a lower register. This is normal. Work with a vocal coach. Vocal coaches are trained singers who can help you with your technique. They can help you develop your ranges properly and improve your tone without damaging your voice. Find a vocal coach near you by contacting music schools or the music departments at colleges in your area. A professional vocal coach can also point out weaknesses and suggest ways to improve. Accept the natural limits of your voice. Not all singers are meant to hit the lowest notes. Continue to work on your range, but stop if your voice feels scratchy or sore. It's also helpful to spend time developing the notes in the middle of your range, instead of continually trying to extend it out. Practice humming for 15 minutes each day. Pick a number of songs that cover a wide expanse of notes from low to high. Then, spend some time daily mimicking these songs by humming to them. As you hum, concentrate on feeling the vibrations in your face as you go into the lower notes. Place your hand gently against your face or throat to concentrate on actually feeling the vibrations. If you don't feel any vibrations, keep practicing. Intermixing humming with singing might help, too. Try speaking out the lyrics or notes. Many people speak with chest voice instead of head voice. To get the notes into the low range, start by speaking the words in your lower register. This can put your vocal chords in the right position. After saying the words, sing the same words. Your vocal chords should be at the correct spot to sing in the lower register. Move the mic closer to your mouth. As soon as you start to dip into a low note, pull the mic closer to your lips. This will help to create a deep, amplified sound. When you head into a high note, move the mic away from your mouth to get a clear sound. The mic should not be touching your lips or you'll potentially end up with sputtering noises. Move into a slight smile. For some people, it helps to curl your lips upwards just a bit when singing low notes. This lip placement can encourage you to open your mouth and throat up more, which can create a deeper sound. Experiment with exactly how much to smile. If you do too much, it can weaken your tone and be hard to hold intact. Similarly, lifting your eyebrows may improve your sound as well, but that's not as certain.
Relax your tongue and mouth. Stand up straight. Release a heavy sigh to warm-up. Sing from your mouth and chin, not your throat and chest. Remember to use your breath when you're singing low notes. Identify your natural register. Practice holding lower and lower notes in your range while singing “Mee. Work with a vocal coach. Accept the natural limits of your voice. Practice humming for 15 minutes each day. Try speaking out the lyrics or notes. Move the mic closer to your mouth. Move into a slight smile.
https://www.wikihow.com/Use-a-Menstrual-Cup
How to Use a Menstrual Cup
A menstrual cup is a reusable alternative to sanitary products like pads or tampons. To use your cup, clean your hands with warm water and soap to wash away germs and dirt. You should also wash the cup with mild soap and water and rinse it thoroughly. When you're ready to insert the cup, squat, stand with one leg propped up, or sit on the toilet with your knees apart. Pinch the cup to fold the sides in, then relax your muscles, spread your labia with your other hand, and slide the cup into your vagina, open end up. If it doesn't feel comfortable, pull it out and try again. Some cups are meant to sit higher up in your vagina than others, so read the directions that come with your cup. Grab the cup by the base and give it a twist to make sure it pops open and creates a seal. When you're ready to take the cup out, sit on the toilet, grab the base of the cup, and pinch the sides together to break the seal. After you slide it out, empty it into the toilet. For your safety, wash the cup with soap and water any time you change it, and disinfect it by boiling it in water for 5-7 minutes between periods.
Purchase a menstrual cup online or in a drug store. Menstrual cups are becoming more popular, so you should be able to find them in most drug stores and big box stores. Some are a bit smaller or larger, so it's always good to read reviews before deciding on one. For instance, you can try the Diva Cup, the Softcup, or the Lunette. Menstrual cups run $30-$40 USD, but keep in mind that you can use them over and over. However, you can get them cheaper, usually in the $7-$10 USD range on the low end, so look around if you just want to try one out. Menstrual cups are typically made of silicone or rubber. If you have latex allergies, make sure the cup you choose is made completely with silicone. Read the instructions accompanying your menstrual cup. Instructions can differ from cup to cup, so it's always a good idea to read what comes with your cup! That way, you know just what you should do with yours. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the cup. You should wash your hands any time you're using products around your vaginal area, as you don't want to introduce bacteria. Use warm water and soap, making sure you scrub for at least 20 seconds before rinsing. You can sing the "Happy Birthday" song slowly to yourself to estimate 20 seconds. Wash your cup with a mild soap before using it the first time. Most companies will ask you to wash it before you put it in. Pick a fragrance-free soap labeled for sensitive skin. Thoroughly rub the cup inside and out with the soap and warm water, and then rinse the soap off completely. Get into a position that feels comfortable to you. Some people prefer to squat, while others find balancing one leg up higher works well. You can even just sit on the toilet, spreading your legs apart. Set aside a little time to insert your cup the first time you do it. It may take some trial and error. You can even do it in a warm shower to help relax you. Fold the cup to make it easier to insert. You can try the c-fold, where you squeeze the opening together then fold the opening in half. You can try the 7-fold, which is similar, but you bring one edge up higher, making the cup a bit narrower. Another option is the punch-down fold. Hold the cup between your thumb and middle finger, then press one edge down with your index finger, pushing it in toward the center of the cup. You can't put it in without folding it, as the suction will work against you. Try out different folds and see which one works best for you. You can also wet the cup slightly to make it easier to slide in. Make sure the stem is facing downward and the bowl is facing upward. Relax your muscles as much as you can. Take a few deep breaths. If you're nervous, you'll tense up, and that will make it harder to insert. Try tensing your vaginal muscles for a moment and then releasing them. Push the cup back toward your tailbone. With your other hand, spread your labia (lips) apart. Gently press the folded cup into your vaginal opening, moving more front to back than upward. Release the fold and let the cup move into place. Typically, the cup won't go as high as a tampon, though you can push it higher if you'd like. Some cups are made to go higher, so always read the directions for yours. If it doesn't feel right, try inserting it again to see if it feels more comfortable. Twist the cup to make sure it seals. Grab the base of the cup by the sides (not the stem) and turn it at least 1 full rotation. This will help ensure that the sides pop out completely to create the seal. You may hear or feel a "pop," which is a sign that the cup has opened. If you're not sure, reach up and feel around the base of the cup. It should be round or oval, depending on your body shape. If it hasn't opened, pull lightly down on the stem without actually pulling the cup out. Check the cup every 12 hours. Most of the time, you can get away with leaving the cup in for 12 hours. That means you only have to empty it in the morning and at night, which you can do in the comfort of your home. If you have a particularly heavy period, you may need to empty it more often. Sit over a toilet to take the cup out. While some women need to take it out standing up, you should try it over a toilet. It can be messy if you don't have the technique down yet. Don't worry, though. Once you figure out the best way for you to remove it, it tends to make very little mess at all! Pull the cup out by breaking the seal first. You can't just yank the cup out, as suction will be working against you! Instead, grab the base of the cup just above the stem and pinch the sides together. That should break the seal enough for you to pull it out. Make sure to keep it upright as you pull it out. If that doesn't break the seal, try moving one finger over the rim of the cup. Don't worry if you can't get it out on your first try! It can't get "lost" in your vagina; your vagina doesn't work that way. Take a moment, relax, and then try again. Empty the cup into the toilet. Continue to keep it upright as you move it toward the toilet, and then turn it over to dump out the contents. If you can't wash it out right then, you can simply wipe it off with toilet paper and re-insert it. Be careful not to drop it in the toilet! If you do, make sure to wash it thoroughly before putting it back in. Wash your cup with soap and water. If possible, rinse the cup out in the sink. Then, rub it down with soap and warm water, making sure to use running water to get all the soap off. Then, you can put the cup back in. It's best to use a mild, unscented soap. If you have a disposable cup, toss it out and put in a new one. Sterilize the cup between periods by boiling it. Wash the cup out with soap and water. Then, bring water to a boil in a small pan. Place it in the pan, and boil it for 5-7 minutes to sanitize it. You'll likely want to keep a separate pan just for this purpose. If the cup is stained, use 70% rubbing alcohol on it. You can also clean it with a sterilizing solution, like what you would use for baby bottles. You can find these solutions with the baby bottle supplies in big box stores. Always read the directions for your cup about sterilization, as the process can differ from cup to cup. Cut part of the stem off it bothers you. For some people, the stem on the cup is too long and causes irritation. If that's true for you, you can simply snip part of it off with most cups, making the fit more comfortable. You can also just purchase one with a shorter stem. Try out different cups if your first one doesn't feel right. Not every cup is going to fit every person! That's why there are different ones out there. If you find yours to be uncomfortable, consider trying another one to see if that's a better fit. For instance, you can get a smaller cup, one with a shorter stem, or one made for people who are more sensitive. Some even come in different shapes! For instance, some cups are more angled than others. Get a cup designed for a heavy flow if you're leaking. While accidents do happen, you shouldn't leak in a cup most of the time, as long as you make sure to get the seal right. However, if you're consistently overflowing your cup and you can't or don't want to check it more often, try out one made for a heavier flow. It will hold more liquid, making it less likely to overflow. Stretch your hymen and vaginal opening if you find the area is too tight. If you haven't had sex or used a tampon, you may find that your vaginal opening and the hymen do not easily stretch to accommodate a cup. If this is the case, try stretching the area over the course of a month or so using your fingers. Start with 1-2 fingers and increase to 3 as your body will allow. You could also use a small dildo. Don't do too much too fast. If it's painful, stop and ease back to a point where it wasn't painful. Keep in mind, the hymen doesn't completely cover your vaginal opening, except in very rare cases, which should be corrected with surgery. Rather, it's a membrane that goes partially around your vaginal opening that should stretch some if it's too tight. Your hymen isn't an indicator of whether you're a virgin or not. Though it can stretch over time, it's not something you break through to get to your vagina, and it can be different shapes or sizes depending on the person.
Purchase a menstrual cup online or in a drug store. Read the instructions accompanying your menstrual cup. Wash your hands thoroughly before touching the cup. Wash your cup with a mild soap before using it the first time. Get into a position that feels comfortable to you. Fold the cup to make it easier to insert. Relax your muscles as much as you can. Push the cup back toward your tailbone. Twist the cup to make sure it seals. Check the cup every 12 hours. Sit over a toilet to take the cup out. Pull the cup out by breaking the seal first. Empty the cup into the toilet. Wash your cup with soap and water. Sterilize the cup between periods by boiling it. Cut part of the stem off it bothers you. Try out different cups if your first one doesn't feel right. Get a cup designed for a heavy flow if you're leaking. Stretch your hymen and vaginal opening if you find the area is too tight.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-a-Wire-Tree-Sculpture
How to Make a Wire Tree Sculpture
Making a wire tree sculpture is an easy way to decorate your home or office. All you'll need is a roll of 22-gauge wire, wire cutters, beads, and a small plant pot filled with stones. You'll first need to cut your wire into 10 strips that are each 2 ½ feet long. To make your sculpture, string 3 beads onto each wire strip every ¾ inch and twist the wires around them to keep them in place. Twist each wire into a cross shape, then twist the wires all together into a tree formation. When you've finished, place the stem of your tree into your plant pot filled with stones so it will sit on your desktop or other surface.
Purchase 25 feet (7.6 m) of 22-gauge wire. Metal wire can be found at a local craft store. You will find it in the jewelry making supply aisle. It's usually sold in a gold or silver finish. Cut the wire into 10 strips. Each strip will be cut to be 2 ½ feet (76 cm) long. Make the cut using a pair of wire cutters. Set the wires off to the side. The wire cutters are sharp. Use caution. Add a bead to the first wire. String a bead onto your first wire. Bring it down to the center of the wire. Bend the wire around the bead until the ends meet. Twist the wire tightly, moving down from the bead about ¾ inch (19 mm). You will be left with two ends on either side of the twist. Add two more beads to the wire. Add another bead to one of the ends of your wire. Bend and twist the wire around the bead like you did in the last step. You will have about ¾ inch (19 mm) of wire below the bead. Repeat this step on the remaining end of the wire. Secure the beads. You now have three beads on the wire in a “t” shape. Secure the beads by twisting the remaining wire together below the “t”. Twist these two wires together about ¾ inch (19 mm). Repeat this process with the remaining nine wires. Add three beads to each of the remaining wires. You will end up with 10 “t” shaped wires with three beads on each wire. Twist two branches together. Cross two branches over each other and twist them together at the base of the beads. Do this with each of the branches so that you have five pairings. Twist the grouped branches into a tree. Take one pairing of branches and cross another pairing over it. Begin twisting the pairings together. Add another pairing, and another, until you have added all of the pairings. Continue twisting the pairings together. This twisting is creating the “trunk” of the tree. Create a thick, wide trunk by twisting the bases of the branches on top of each other. Create a thin, swirling trunk by stretching the bases of the branches out as your twist them together. Create a ball at the bottom of the tree. When you near the bottom of the wires, twist the wires around each other to create a ball. This ball will help to stabilize the tree within its container. Place the tree into the desired container. Add a liberal amount of glue to the bottom of the container using a hot glue gun. Push the ball of the tree into the hot glue. Hold onto the tree while the glue dries. The container can be a small planter or decorative bowl. Add one layer of pebbles to the container. While the glue is still hot, add a layer of pebbles to the container. All of the pebbles should fit down into the glue. They should be surrounding the tree trunk. They will offer the tree more support once all of the glue is dry. Remember to continue to hold the tree while adding the pebbles. If you need to free your hands, prop the tree up with something to prevent it from falling over. Work quickly as your glue will dry within one to two minutes. Glue more pebbles inside of the container. Add another layer of glue on top of the first layer of pebbles. Continue to add pebbles to the glue. Repeat this process several times until you have reached the top of the container. Adjust the branches. Once the glue has dried, you can adjust your tree branches. Bend the wire branches so that the tree takes your desired shape. Turn the branches down to resemble a weeping willow tree. Fray the branches out and slightly up to resemble a maple or oak tree. Finished.
Purchase 25 feet (7.6 m) of 22-gauge wire. Cut the wire into 10 strips. Add a bead to the first wire. Add two more beads to the wire. Secure the beads. Repeat this process with the remaining nine wires. Twist two branches together. Twist the grouped branches into a tree. Create a ball at the bottom of the tree. Place the tree into the desired container. Add one layer of pebbles to the container. Glue more pebbles inside of the container. Adjust the branches. Finished.
https://www.wikihow.pet/Tell-if-Your-Cat-Grooms-Excessively
How to Tell if Your Cat Grooms Excessively
If you're unsure if your cat is grooming excessively, watch to see if it spends more than 50 percent of its day grooming, which might be a sign that it's sick. Also, try to notice if it spends a lot of time licking its belly or legs, which could be a sign of excessive grooming. If you find your cat spends a lot of time grooming its genital area, take it to the vet as soon as possible, since this could indicate a urinary infection. You can also check its fur for missing strips and red patches, which are more common in cats that over groom.
Look for missing fur. If your cat over grooms, it will be missing strips of fur on its body. These missing strips are most likely to be on your cat's belly or back. Some cats will groom at the change of seasons, so your cat's fur might be shorter in some areas at this time. Over grooming often results in bald spots, however. Look for hot spots. If your cat is over-grooming, their skin can become red and irritated. Vets calls these areas hot spots. They are more common in dogs who over groom, but they can show up on cats, too. Look for any spots that are red or irritated on your cat's body. Check for strips of short, stubbly fur. If your cat hasn't been over grooming for very long, they won't have total bald spots. They will probably have strips of very short, stubbly fur from the hair shaft breaking when they lick it too much. It won't feel smooth and silky like the rest of their fur. If you see strips like this, your cat is likely over grooming. Look for asymmetrical patches of fur. If your cat is over grooming, they'll often focus on one or two areas. This will give their fur an asymmetrical look. So, for example, one half of the fur on their back might look fine, while the other half is short and stubbly. This is a good sign that your cat is over grooming. Pay attention to their grooming time. Cats spend a lot of time in their day grooming - 30 to 50 percent of the time they are awake. Each cat is different and you'll know your cat's behavior better than anyone. If your cat seems to be grooming more than usual, they're probably over grooming. Pay attention to where they groom. Cats who over groom tend to focus on the same spot. These spots are often not a usual grooming place for cats. So, for example, if your cat is spending a lot of time grooming its belly, back or rear legs, it is likely over grooming. Cats do groom certain areas more often than others. For example, they'll groom their faces after they eat, and might spend quite a bit of time on their front paws, neck, chest, and shoulders. Check for excessive grooming in the genital area. All cats need to clean themselves, but if your cat is spending a lot of timing grooming its genital area, they might indicate a urinary infection, which can be fatal to cats. If you notice this behavior in your cat, take them to the vet right away. Pay attention to your cat’s behavior. There are other symptoms of over grooming that don't have anything to do with actual grooming practices. If your cat's behavior suddenly changes, check their bodies to see if you see signs of over grooming. For example, if your usually social cat is suddenly withdrawn or your generally independent cat is suddenly overly clingy, there might be something else going on. Your cat may hide to groom, especially if you have tried to discourage them from licking in the past. Check if your cat is producing more hairballs. Cats that over groom, especially long-haired cats, will likely produce more hairballs than usual because they'll be ingesting more hair. If you notice your cat is bringing up more hairballs than they usually do, they might be over grooming. Check their food. Switching your cat's food can cause an allergic reaction, which might cause over grooming. If you've recently switched their food to a different brand, this might be the cause. Look at your cat’s skin. If your cat seems to be over grooming, check their skin where most of the over grooming seems to occur. If it looks or feels dry and flaky, their over grooming might be in response to dry skin that itches. Evaluate environmental factors. Some cats over groom as a way to deal with stress. If you think your cat is over grooming, consider changes to their environment. Have you moved recently? Had a new baby? Changed the cat's routine? These can all cause stress for your cat and they might over groom in response. Take your cat to the vet. If you suspect that your cat is over grooming, take it to the vet. The vet can check for certain causes of over grooming - like the presence of parasites or an allergic reaction - better than you can at home. The vet can also prescribe medication if it's necessary.
Look for missing fur. Look for hot spots. Check for strips of short, stubbly fur. Look for asymmetrical patches of fur. Pay attention to their grooming time. Pay attention to where they groom. Check for excessive grooming in the genital area. Pay attention to your cat’s behavior. Check if your cat is producing more hairballs. Check their food. Look at your cat’s skin. Evaluate environmental factors. Take your cat to the vet.
https://www.wikihow.com/Belly-Roll
How to Belly Roll
If you're interested in belly dancing, you can get started by learning to belly roll right at home. Your abdominal muscles are split into 2 sections, separated roughly by your belly button. You'll need to tense these muscles independently to belly roll. To do a top-to-bottom roll, push your upper abs out, then your lower abs out. Then, pull your upper abs in, and finally, your lower abs in. Practice these motions in front a mirror until you can do them smoothly. Start slowly until you get the technique down, then work on doing it faster to the beat of music. You can also learn a bottom-roll by reversing the steps.
Position yourself in front of a mirror. Stand facing the mirror with your feet about shoulder-width apart and your back erect. Keep your arms at your sides. Relax your abdominal muscles and let your pelvis naturally stick out a bit. You should feel loose and comfortable. Since you're doing a belly roll, you'll need to be able to see your belly. Wear a midriff-bearing shirt or just a bra, and comfortable yoga pants, a skirt or shorts that sit below your belly button. Find your two sets of abdominal muscles. Your abdomen is divided into two different sets of muscles: upper abdominal muscles and lower abdominal muscles. Place one hand across your upper abdominal muscles, just below your ribs. Place your other hand over your lower abdominal muscles, just below your belly button. Learning to isolate the two sets is the key to performing a belly roll. Keep your hips and spine still. A belly roll engages just your abdominal muscles, and the rest of your body should stay still. Don't be tempted to move your hips forward or from side to side; stand completely still and focus on moving those muscles and nothing else. If you have trouble isolating your abdominal muscles without moving your hips and spine, practice your belly exercise while seated on the floor, lying flat on your back or perched on the edge of the chair. Lean back in the chair and rest on your hands, both legs extended straight in front of you. Hold your torso in a straight line as you practice. Suck in your upper abdominal muscles. Let your lower belly pooch out while your upper belly pulls in toward your spine. Hold the position for a moment to get used to the feeling of sucking in your upper abdominal muscles while your lower abdominal muscles push out. This is an essential movement in a belly roll. Practice flexing and unflexing your upper abdominal muscles. Pull them in, then push them out. Keep doing so until you can easily locate and engage them. It might help to keep your hand on your abdomen above your belly button so you can feel your muscles tighten and loosen. After trying this for a while, practice without using your hand. Suck in your lower abdominal muscles. Pull your lower belly in toward your spine while pushing out your upper abdominal muscles. This movement is trickier than its reverse, so it's going to take some practice. Imagine pulling your belly button in while the muscles just above stick out. Practice flexing and unflexing your lower abdominal muscles. Pull them in, then push them out. Keep doing so until you can easily locate and engage them. Keep your hand on your abdomen above your belly button so you can feel them tighten and loosen. After a while, do it without using your hand. Flex your upper and lower abdominal muscles in rotation. First suck in your upper abdominal muscles, then suck in your lower abdominal muscles. Go back and forth between them, making sure the muscle that isn't being sucked in is pushed out. By rotating between the upper and lower muscles, you'll give the appearance that your stomach is undulating. Once you get the hang of it, you're ready to perform a belly roll. If you have trouble flexing your upper and lower abdominal muscles in isolation, doing ab exercises can help. Try crunches , sit ups , and other belly workouts to gain greater control over your abdominal muscles. Do a top-to-bottom belly roll. This is the basic belly roll that every dancer knows. It goes like this: push your upper abs out, your lower abs out, your upper abs in, and your lower abs in. Practice these motions until you can do them smoothly. Look in the mirror to see whether your belly looks like it's starting to roll. If you can't tell, try to make your flexes more pronounced and stick out the muscles that aren't being engaged. When you suck in your upper abdominal muscles, really push out your lower belly, and vice versa. Do a bottom-to-top belly roll. To do a bottom-to-top belly roll suck your entire abdomen in, then push out with your lower abdominal muscles first. Push out with your upper abs. Suck in your lower abs, and finally suck in your upper abs, too. Repeat. Practice both this and the top-to-bottom roll; you might find that moving in one direction or the other comes more naturally to you. Start rolling faster. Try to speed up your flexing and unflexing so that as soon as you finish flexing your upper abdominal muscles, you move to the lower. Go back and forth quickly with no interruption. Keep gaining speed until you're rolling as fast as you can. Slow down, then speed back up. This will help you gain greater control over your muscles. Find your rhythm. Like any dance movement, the belly roll requires a good sense of rhythm. Move back and forth between your upper and lower abdominal muscles with a particular pattern, rather than jerking back and forth. Watch your belly in the mirror and try to create a smooth, elegant roll with your muscles. It helps to move to music. Turn on some music with a good, steady beat and practice rolling your belly with it, just as you'd tap your foot or clap your hands. Learn to belly dance.The belly roll is just one movement in belly dancing. A belly dance includes elegant arm and leg movements as well. Throughout the dance, the spine is held erect and the hips still while the belly undulates. If you enjoy belly rolling, consider taking the next step to learn how to do a complete dance.
Position yourself in front of a mirror. Find your two sets of abdominal muscles. Keep your hips and spine still. Suck in your upper abdominal muscles. Suck in your lower abdominal muscles. Flex your upper and lower abdominal muscles in rotation. Do a top-to-bottom belly roll. Do a bottom-to-top belly roll. Start rolling faster. Find your rhythm. Learn to belly dance.The belly roll is just one movement in belly dancing.
https://www.wikihow.com/Make-Herbal-Tea
How to Make Herbal Tea
To make herbal tea, start by choosing an herbal blend that suits your needs, like ginseng and ginkgo biloba for energy or chamomile and lemongrass for relaxation. Next, bring a pot or kettle of water to a boil. Then, add 1-2 teaspoons of the herbal tea blend or a teabag to your cup, teapot, or tea ball. Finally, pour 8 ounces of hot water over the tea and let it steep for 5-8 minutes. Don't forget to strain loose-leaf tea or remove the teabag before enjoying your beverage!
Combine ginseng and ginkgo biloba for a boost of energy. Mix together 4 tablespoons (60 grams) of dried ginseng with 4 tablespoons (60 grams) of dried ginkgo biloba to make 1 US quart (0.95 L) of tea. Both popular Chinese herbs, a blend of ginseng and ginkgo biloba will encourage energy and alertness. Create a relaxing blend with chamomile, lemongrass, and rose petals. Mix together 4 tablespoons (60 grams) of dried chamomile leaves, 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of dried lemongrass, and 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of dried rose petals in a bowl to make 1 US quart (0.95 L) of tea. Adjust the measurements as necessary to make a smaller or larger batch. Just make sure to keep the ratios the same. Chamomile is known for its relaxing properties. You can also consider adding lavender or rosemary to your blend, as they also have calming effects. Make a mint and ginger tea to soothe an upset stomach. Mix together 2 teaspoons (10 grams) of dried mint leaves, ½ teaspoon (2.5 grams) of fennel seeds, and a pinch of dried ginger in a bowl to make 1 cup (240 mL) of tea. You can easily adjust the measurements to make a larger batch of tea by multiplying the quantity of each ingredient by the number of cups you would like to make. Peppermint, ginger , calendula, and catnip are great options for your tea blend if you are seeking relief from indigestion or gas. You can also create a mint tea with fresh leaves plucked directly from the stem. Just keep in mind that you will need a larger quantity of mint when using fresh leaves rather than dried ones. You will need roughly 3 to 4 cups (600 to 700 grams) of fresh mint leaves to make 1 US quart (0.95 L) of tea. Create a licorice root blend to heal a sore throat and cough. Mix together 4 tablespoons (60 grams) of licorice root, 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of valerian root, and 2 tablespoons (30 grams) of dried marshmallow leaf in a bowl to create a blend that is perfect for cold sufferers. Around 8 tablespoons (120 grams) of leaves will make 1 US quart (0.95 L) of tea. Consider adding red clover, yarrow, or thyme to your blend for their throat-soothing properties. Bring a pot or kettle of water to a boil. Fill a pot or kettle full of water and place it on the stove. Turn the heat on high to encourage quicker boiling. It is best not to worry about the exact quantity of the water at this stage, as you will lose water to evaporation as it boils. Once the water has reached a rolling boil, turn off the heat and allow it to sit for 30 seconds before measuring the exact quantity you will need with a liquid measuring cup. Use an electric kettle if you do not have a stove or heat source handy. Keep in mind that you can also cold-brew herbal tea by placing the herbs in water and allowing them to infuse overnight in the refrigerator. Warm your teapot and teacups before adding the boiling water. Place your teacups and teapot under hot running water from your sink. Make sure to turn the water on the hottest setting possible. Warming your teacups before adding the boiling water will help prevent breakage due to rapid temperature fluctuation. Place a lid over the teacup or pot so that it will retain the heat as you continue preparing the tea. Pre-warming your cups will also help your tea stay warmer for longer. Add your herbal tea blend to a cup or pot. Add your pre-measured herbal tea blend to your cup, teapot, or tea ball. Use 1 or 2 teaspoons (5-10 grams) of tea to make a cup or 8 fluid ounces (240 mL) of tea and around 8 tablespoons (120 grams) of tea to make a pot or 1 US quart (0.95 L) of tea. If you are using teabags, refer to the instructions on the side of the box. Generally, though, you should use one teabag per 8 fluid ounces (240 mL) of water. You can also purchase a small reusable metal tea ball to hold your loose-leaf tea while it steeps. It can be easily removed and emptied into the trash so that you don't need to strain the tea as you pour the pot into your cup. Pour water over the tea and allow it to steep for 5 to 8 minutes. If you don't know how much water your teapot or teacup holds, you can first pour the boiling water into a liquid measuring cup before adding it to your tea. Carefully add the hot water to your tea. Cover your cup or pot and allow it to steep for 5 to 8 minutes for the flavor to reach the desired strength. For a stronger flavored tea, allow the tea to steep longer and add additional tea leaves. Strain your tea, if necessary. If you are using loose-leaf tea, pour the water from your teapot through a mesh strainer into your teacup. Otherwise, remove the teabag or teabags from your cup and place them on a plate or directly into the trash. Once they have cooled slightly, you can squeeze any remaining water into your cup. Check your teapot to see whether it has a mesh strainer built into the spout. Some teapots have this feature and, if yours does, you won't need to pour the tea through a strainer into your cup. Add sweetener according to your preference. Add sugar or artificial sweetener to your tea while it is still hot so that the sugar easily dissolves. Stir the tea with a spoon to ensure that the sweetener dissolves completely. Consider sweetening your tea with local honey. Enjoy your tea with a snack. Sit back, relax, and enjoy your tea with a bite to eat! Consider pairing chocolate scones and desserts with peppermint tea. Fruity herbal teas will perfectly complement citrusy or tart entrees or desserts.
Combine ginseng and ginkgo biloba for a boost of energy. Create a relaxing blend with chamomile, lemongrass, and rose petals. Make a mint and ginger tea to soothe an upset stomach. Create a licorice root blend to heal a sore throat and cough. Bring a pot or kettle of water to a boil. Warm your teapot and teacups before adding the boiling water. Add your herbal tea blend to a cup or pot. Pour water over the tea and allow it to steep for 5 to 8 minutes. Strain your tea, if necessary. Add sweetener according to your preference. Enjoy your tea with a snack.
https://www.wikihow.com/Adopt-Out-a-Shy-Dog
How to Adopt Out a Shy Dog
To convince someone to adopt your shy dog, you should contact the place where you got it, whether that's a breeder or a shelter, so they can help you find a new home for it. You may even want to reach out to other rescue groups to see if they have any tips for rehoming your pet. While they help spread the word, check with your family and friends to see if any are interested in adopting your dog. You can also advertise your dog to other people by posting on social media and Craigslist. When you find someone interested in your dog, it's best to be honest and let them know that it has a timid or fearful personality so you don't mislead them.
Check any state or local laws about rehoming. If you decide to put your dog up for adoption, you should research your local regulations. Some places have specific laws about adopting out animals that have a history of aggression. You will need to know what your liability is if the dog you give away ever bites someone. Some fearful and timid dogs can act violently if provoked. Never give away an aggressive dog without professional help. Dogs with behavior problems take those problems with them to the next family, where they can get worse. Take your dog to the veterinarian. Before you begin advertising about your dog, you should take it to the veterinarian to have its health evaluated. Be sure to have your dog spayed/neutered and vaccinated, which will make it much more attractive to potential adopters. This will also help you get a better idea of what health concerns, if any, to discuss. Ask your veterinarian things like “how current are my dog's vaccinations?” or “what chronic issues might my dog develop?” Be sure to talk to your veterinarian about your dog's temperament. If your dog's temperament is the reason you are giving it up, they may suggest a medication or treatment to help it. Receive a behavior evaluation. If your dog has a serious behavioral problem, you may want to get it evaluated. There are pet specialists who diagnose dog behavioral disorders and recommend methods of dealing with them. One option a behaviorist might recommend is visiting a dog trainer. Getting any kind of temperamental problems under control will make your dog more attractive to potential adopters. For a shy dog, a trainer may suggest activities that will strengthen your dog's confidence and make them more social. If you are putting your dog up for adoption because of its shyness, understand that some dogs can be trained out of their timidity. Get help from a shelter or rescue group. Consider calling a local shelter or rescue group early in the process. They will likely have tips to help you market your dog to potential adopters. These groups are accustomed to finding homes for animals and should be a valuable resource. Ask the shelter volunteer things like “what are some good methods for advertising my dog?” or “how can your group help me get the word out about my dog?” Be honest about your dog. Because you have a shy dog, you will need to be up front about its temperament. Let potential adopters know that it is timid and fearful of people or other dogs. It is important that you avoid misleading people about your dog's behavior. This is unethical and can be dangerous. Make sure that you do not undersell your pet's timidity. If the adopters find that your dog is too shy for their liking, they may try to give it back to you or send it to a shelter. Take some pictures and create a profile. Once you have your dog cleaned up, you should take some photographs of it and upload them to a pet adoption website. Take a few close up pictures of your dog's face, as well as a few shots of its entire body. Upload them to a pet adoption site and then share your pet's profile on social media and in any prospective online advertisements. You will want to convey to potential adopters your dog's physical health and general look. Groom your dog before you put it up for adoption. A clean dog will be more attractive to potential adopters than a dirty one. You can do this grooming yourself, or you can take your dog to a professional. Be sure to take photos that accurately capture your dog's behavior. Do not take a picture of your dog running with someone and give it a caption of “Frank really loves people.” This is disingenuous and misleading. Many pet adoption services allow you to make a profile of your dog that they will host on their website. A pet profile may also attract potential adopters. Contact the place where you got the dog. One of the first things you should do when advertising your dog is to contact the place where you originally got it. If you got it from a breeder, they should help you find your animal a new home. If it is a rescue dog, many shelters and rescue groups will take an animal back regardless of how much time has passed. A rescue group or shelter may also help spread the word about your dog by posting its information to their website or directing potential adopters to you. Ask them things like “do you help people rehome dogs?” or “are there any services that you can recommend for pet adoption?” Ask your family and friends. The first natural place to begin looking for potential adopters is among your family and friends. You know these people already, so your vetting process will not have to be as thorough. Moreover, it is easy for you to get in contact with them. Simply call, text or email any friends or family members that you believe might be interested in your dog. Consider talking to anyone who has already expressed interest in the dog. Advertise on social media. You can also post your dog's information on social media. Share your dog's profile information and any photos you may have on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram or any other social media platform you use. You can also ask your friends and family to share your dog's information in order to reach even more people. Place an advertisement. You can also place a spot in your local newspaper advertising your dog. Include your dog's profile and your contact information. You may also consider putting an ad on Craigslist. Again, be sure to include information about your dog as well as the best way to contact you. When putting out a public advertisement like this, you should always ask for a fee. Some people take free dogs and resell them to medical researchers or dog fighting groups. A fee is an insurance policy against your dog going to one of these people. Ask potential adopters to send you background information. Once potential adopters begin contacting you, you will want to get some background information. Ask them to send you proof of employment, living situation and veterinarian. Have the potential adopters send you photocopies of documents like a pay stub and their lease. They should also forward you their veterinarian's contact information. You might say something like “would you mind sending me a copy of a pay stub from your work?” or “would you share your veterinarian's contact info with me?” Conduct some interviews. You may want to meet any potential adopters in person. This will help you get a better feel for the people interested in adopting your dog. Go over some of the information you had the potential adopter send you, such as their work life and veterinary situation. You should also ask about their living and work situation, who will be the dog's primary caregiver and if the dog has access to a yard or park. You might ask “what happened to your previous pets?” and “are all of your animals spayed and neutered?” Ask them things like “how many pets do you currently own?” and “do you have any experience with shy dogs?” During the interview you might ask “how many hours a week do you work?” or “do you live in an apartment or a house?” Some other questions to ask are “how often will the dog be outside?” and “do you have any children?” Let the potential adopter meet the dog. If you conduct the interview in person, you should also allow the potential adopter to meet your dog. Observe how they interact with the animal and how your dog responds to them. Although your dog is shy and is generally timid, if they act particularly fearful around this person, they are probably not a good fit. Trust your dog's instincts when vetting any potential adopters. Research your local shelters. If you cannot find an adopter for your dog, your only other option may be surrendering it. Be choosy when looking at shelters and rescue groups. Many shelters and groups are understaffed and overcrowded with dogs waiting to get homes. Because of this, a large majority of the animals are put to sleep. There are “no-kill” shelters that will not kill your dog. However, they also tend to be overcrowded and are less likely to take your dog. Make sure that you find a place for your dog that will care for it. Avoid taking your dog to a pound. Most pounds will only hold the dog for a few days before putting it down. Contact the shelter or rescue group. Once you have found shelters or rescue groups to contact, you should give them a call and find out more about their situation. Talk with the staff about how many animals are in their facility and the number of volunteers they have. Try to avoid locations that are overcrowded and understaffed. Generally, a shelter or group will let you know if they think they can take care of your animal. An overcrowded shelter may be a particularly stressful place for your already anxious dog. Ask questions like “how many animals are in your facility?” and “how many staff do you have?” You might also want to ask “what happens to dogs that are not adopted?” and “what is the living situation like for your dogs?' Surrender your dog. Once you have found a shelter or rescue group, arrange a time to surrender your dog. Most shelters and groups have their own policies, but your appointment should only last about an hour. You will bring your dog in, it will receive a quick medical evaluation and then you will sign a form surrendering it. Be sure that you understand the policies of the shelter or rescue group. Most shelters or rescue groups will try to work with you to avoid having you surrender the dog. Volunteer staff may explore options for you to keep the dog or find someone else to take it.
Check any state or local laws about rehoming. Take your dog to the veterinarian. Receive a behavior evaluation. Get help from a shelter or rescue group. Be honest about your dog. Take some pictures and create a profile. Contact the place where you got the dog. Ask your family and friends. Advertise on social media. Place an advertisement. Ask potential adopters to send you background information. Conduct some interviews. Let the potential adopter meet the dog. Research your local shelters. Contact the shelter or rescue group. Surrender your dog.
https://www.wikihow.com/Breed-Gouramis
How to Breed Gouramis
To breed gouramis, start by setting up a 10-20 gallon breeding tank that has up to a 6-inch water level, although the exact size tank you should use depends on the type of gourami you're breeding. Add gravel, anchored plants, floating plants, and a sponge filter to the tank. Once your tank is set up, introduce a female gourami into it first, followed by a male gourami at least an hour later. Then, wait a few days for the fish to mate. After the female lays eggs, remove it from the tank and leave the male to care for the young.
Identify your gourami species (recommended). The term gourami refers to an entire family of fish, including over 90 species. While many of the gourami species and varieties popular among aquarium hobbyists can be bred in the same conditions, this does not apply to every species. Ask an experienced fish breeder or biologist to examine your gouramis if you do not remember the name they were sold under. This guide is accurate for dwarf gouramis, pearl gouramis, kissing gouramis, blue (three spot) gouramis, and honey gouramis. Note that kissing gouramis may be more difficult to breed than the others, and require a larger tank. True gouramis and chocolate gouramis are especially difficult to care for and breed, and the process is not covered in this article. The chocolate gourami, and some other species, care for the eggs in a parent's mouth. If your gouramis do not belong to the species listed above, or if you are not certain of the species, you may still use this guide, but you may have a lower success rate or encounter unexpected difficulties. Feed the gouramis live or frozen food. Animal food such as blood worms, mosquito larvae, and adult brine shrimp provide adult fish with the nutrients necessary for breeding. You can purchase this in live or frozen form from an aquarium store. Supplement the dry food diet with this food several times a week. Gathering this type of food on your own increases the risk of passing on diseases to your fish, and is not recommended without the advice of a local expert. Watch the fish change size and color. Adult, female gouramis may swell or change color on their underside, as they produce eggs within their bodies. Male gouramis may become more brightly colored if their diet improves, an indicator of good health and suitability for breeding. Try to find one male and one female that display these characteristics, and have no visible defects. It may be easier to notice the change in size looking down from above. Identify the sex of the adult fish. If the females have noticeably changed shape as they laid eggs, or became "gravid," you may already know which gouramis are female and which are male. Some are relatively easy to identify at any point due to coloration differences. If these methods of identification are not sufficient, try the following methods: In some gourami species, females have a more rounded dorsal and anal fin (along the spine and near the anus), while the males have a more pointed one. Kissing gourami are difficult to identify by appearance. However, if two of the gourami are "kissing," they likely belong to the same sex, and are fighting for dominance. If all your fish seem "swollen," try withholding their food for three or four days. Overweight males may slim down during this time, while egg bearing females probably will not. Select a tank of the appropriate size. For most gourami pairs, select a tank that can hold 10–20 gallons (40–80 liters) of water up to a six inches (15 cm) water level. This relatively small size and shallow water level actually encourages breeding and fry health, but it is not suitable for all species. Here are a few notable exceptions: Kissing gourami will only spawn in a large tank, at least 24 inches (60 cm) deep and at least 36 inches (91 cm) long. Pearl gourami can be bred in a tank with this water depth, but the tank should be at least 31 inches (80 cm) long. Blue, or three-spot, gourami can be bred in this tank size, but a somewhat larger tank will work as well. A larger tank may minimize stress and injury to the female. Species that grow more than 10 inches (25 cm) long, including the true gourami and giant gourami, may require much larger tanks. Consult an expert before attempting to breed these species, with the exception of the kissing gourami described above. Add gravel and anchored plants. Start by adding a thin layer of gravel at the bottom. Use this to anchor several plants, large enough for the female to hide behind if the male becomes aggressive. Leave some open area as well. Upturned clay pots and other common aquarium additions can also be added to create hiding spots. If putting rocks in the tank, be sure these are bought from an aquarium store, as rocks gathered in lakes and rivers may alter the pH of the water. Add floating plants or objects. Some species, such as the pearl gourami, create a "bubble nest" for the eggs on the underside of a floating plant. You may use actual floating plants, or cut a Styrofoam cup in half lengthwise and float it on the surface of the water. For species that do not build bubble nests, such as kissing gourami, you may wish to float a piece of lettuce instead, which will provide nutrients for the newly hatched fry. Do not cover more than 1/3 of the water surface, as gouramis need to take oxygen directly from the air as well as the water. Put a cover on the aquarium. Protect the air above the water level from cold drafts by attaching a lid to the aquarium. Make sure there is air between the lid and the water level, and that the lid contains holes to allow the passage of some air. While this is not necessary for adult gourami, young fry are highly susceptible to air temperature changes, and could die if the air becomes too cold. Use a sponge filter. Never use a filter or air stone that creates a current in a breeding tank, as the current can destroy eggs and young fry. Adults may not be willing to lay eggs unless the water is completely still. Adjust the temperature, pH, and nitrites if necessary. Use an aquarium test kit to monitor these attributes of the tank water for several days, before any fish are introduced. Prepare the tank with a "fishless cycle" to keep toxic nitrites and nitrates out of the water. Heat the tank to around 77–82ºF (25–28ºC), and adjust the pH to between 6.6 and 7.5. Lower pH by adding soft water, such as reverse osmosis water, and raise it by adding crushed limestone, coral, or other carbonate materials. Warning: Do not transfer fish between tanks with different temperatures. Instead, gradually increase the temperature of the tank after the breeding fish have been introduced. The temperature and pH ranges given here are a narrow band suitable for all the common gourami species mentioned at the beginning of this guide. If you have identified your gourami species, you may be able to search online for a broader range of acceptable conditions for that species. Introduce the female to the breeding tank first. Move the female gourami you have selected to breed into the breeding tank first. This gives the female fish time to locate hiding spots and acclimatize to the tank. Introduce the male. After at least an hour, or up to a full day, introduce the male to the tank. Watch the behavior of the two fish, making sure the female has enough hiding places to remain alone for part of the day. The male may cause minor bruising or scrapes on the female while chasing her. If the female sustains more serious injuries, or is being harassed around the clock, consider adding a second female to divide the male's attention. Wait for the fish to mate. It may be several days before the gourami pair mates. While the exact nature of the mating ritual, amplexus, and/or spawning varies by species, it typically takes several hours. Look for the following signs if you are trying to catch the fish in the act: In many gourami species, the male will create a nest of bubbles before mating occurs. This nest may be in a corner of a tank, or on the underside of a floating object. The two fish may "dance" around each other, eventually touching and wriggling against each other. In some species, they will latch together and one will roll onto its back. As the female lays eggs (usually hundreds or thousands), the male may pick these up in his mouth and move them to the bubble nest. In species that do not construct bubble nests, the eggs are typically strewn around into the water. Know when to remove the parents. The adult female gourami should be moved back to the original tank directly after spawning, or she may eat the eggs. If the male constructed a "bubble nest," he will likely continue to care for the young until the fry become free-swimming, after which he should be removed as well. For species that do not construct a nest, such as kissing gourami, remove the parents immediately after spawning. The male may not eat much or at all while he is caring for the eggs. Pay attention to his eating habits and reduce the amount of food if necessary to avoid making the water dirty. Let the fry eat the egg yolk after hatching. Fry typically hatch within 30 hours of spawning, often within the first 24 hours for some species. If they were laid in bubble nests, the fry usually stay attached to their place of hatching for two or three days, as they consume the yolk of their egg sac. After eating the yolk from their own eggs, the fry will become free swimming, moving around the tank, and will need to be fed according to the instructions below. Feed the fry specialized food. The newly hatched fry are too small to eat most types of food. Suitable foods, which may be available at an aquarium store, include liquid fish food, rotifers, infusoria, or hard boiled egg yolk pushed through cheesecloth. Try to feed them as often as you can manage, six times a day or more. Infusoria can be grown at home by keeping a small piece of lettuce or potato in a jar of water in a sunny area. After a few days, the water should turn cloudy, then clear, and can then be fed to the fry in small amounts. Use baby brine shrimp once the fry are larger. Dwarf gourami, honey gourami, and other species whose adults are less than 5 inches (13 cm) in length produce fry that are too small to eat larger food for seven or eight days after hatching. Larger species may be able to eat baby brine shrimp after about four days. Once the fry have reached this stage, feed them baby brine shrimp to give them the protein needed for growth. Keep the water clean. Continue to conduct partial water changes as you would in a normal tank, and siphon off material collecting on the bottom of the tank. Because the fry are easily sucked into the siphon, give the bucket of removed water some time to settle so you can find and transfer any fry back into the tank. Make a plan for your fry before they grow too large. Gourami typically produce hundreds or thousands of eggs, and while it's unlikely that all of them will survive, you will often end up with more fry than can fit in your tank. Find someone who will buy your fry, decide how many you will keep, and consider euthanizing fish with obvious physical defects. Move the gourami to a larger tank after a few weeks. Remaining fry can be fed on an ordinary diet once they have reached several weeks of age, although a diet that includes a variety of animal and vegetable proteins is better for growth than fish flakes alone.
Identify your gourami species (recommended). Feed the gouramis live or frozen food. Watch the fish change size and color. Identify the sex of the adult fish. Select a tank of the appropriate size. Add gravel and anchored plants. Add floating plants or objects. Put a cover on the aquarium. Use a sponge filter. Adjust the temperature, pH, and nitrites if necessary. Introduce the female to the breeding tank first. Introduce the male. Wait for the fish to mate. Know when to remove the parents. Let the fry eat the egg yolk after hatching. Feed the fry specialized food. Use baby brine shrimp once the fry are larger. Keep the water clean. Make a plan for your fry before they grow too large. Move the gourami to a larger tank after a few weeks.